Ayana Gray creates a fantastic world, Lkossa, and cast of characters in this Pan-African fantasy. I flew through this one which is always a good sign.
It's always shocking to me when I find out I'm reading an author's debut novel. This one was no exception to that. I was in awe of Gray's ability to fully immerse the reader in this world of hers. I think a lot of times with fantasy novels, readers are looking for the magic and fantastical parts to astound them, but I was particularly fascinated with the underlying meaning of a lot of these African characters, cultures, myths, and beliefs (the author's note is a MUST READ if you want to know more of what I'm referring to).
This book had a little bit of everything in it for me - familial relationships, love and loss, and sprinkles of fantasy and magical creatures and characters throughout. It's also a testament to the power of loyalty - whether that's between family or friends.
I didn't love the way this one ended even though it was unpredictable and caught me by surprise. Otherwise, I'm looking forward to reading more from Ayana Gray in the future!
Thanks to Penguin Teen for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
It's always shocking to me when I find out I'm reading an author's debut novel. This one was no exception to that. I was in awe of Gray's ability to fully immerse the reader in this world of hers. I think a lot of times with fantasy novels, readers are looking for the magic and fantastical parts to astound them, but I was particularly fascinated with the underlying meaning of a lot of these African characters, cultures, myths, and beliefs (the author's note is a MUST READ if you want to know more of what I'm referring to).
This book had a little bit of everything in it for me - familial relationships, love and loss, and sprinkles of fantasy and magical creatures and characters throughout. It's also a testament to the power of loyalty - whether that's between family or friends.
I didn't love the way this one ended even though it was unpredictable and caught me by surprise. Otherwise, I'm looking forward to reading more from Ayana Gray in the future!
Thanks to Penguin Teen for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.