Foundryside (The Founders Trilogy, #1)

by Robert Jackson Bennett

Sancia walked along the Anafesto, eyeing the dark, decrepit fisheries ahead. She kept looking to her left, toward the lanes of the Greens. This area was a lot quieter than Foundryside, but she took no chances. Every time she spied someone, she stopped and watched their movements, sensitive to any suggestion that they might be there looking for her, and she didn’t move on until satisfied.

Sometimes characters have to be stupid for plot purposes. And I hate it. It is a joy to write smart ones. Sancia is not brash and foolish: she is slow, cautious, and careful. Seeing how she thinks her way out of tight spots is a pleasure.