A Matter of Profit is a science fiction novel written by Hilari Bell[1] published in 2001.

It is rumored that the Vivitare emperor is in danger of being assassinated and Ahvren offers to uncover the plot, in return for the freedom to choose his own path.

Mara Albert in a review for School Library Journal said that "this is well-written, thought-provoking, and exciting science fiction.

"[3] Anita Berkam in her review for The Horn Book Magazine said that "the mystery moves at a cracking pace with plenty of action, and Bell creates several alien races with unique characteristics and philosophies, notably the Vivitare survival philosophy and the T'Chin perspective on life as a cosmic game of profit Both the bibliogoth's wise mentorship and Ahvren's gradual and believable conversion to the T'Chin way of thinking are distinctively and engagingly handled.

For its winning characterization, suspenseful covert action at the climax, and intriguing conclusion, this entry in the science-fiction/ mystery genre will convert plenty of fans.