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roseleebooks's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
This is a story set in 15th century Africa that focuses on the rise of Òdòdó from blacksmith to bride of the Aláàfin of Yorùbáland. There are some elements that could be considered magical but for the most part the plot focused on political and military machinations with detailed world building.
The story begins fairly simply: a tale of a woman trying to grasp the comforts that come with wealth and status, but that slowly grows more complicated as she realizes that what she wants cannot be given to her by someone else. I was impressed by how much tension is infused into the story, it was hard to step away from watching Òdòdó grow in confidence and power. Her struggles and frustrations carried through the page so clearly. It was almost cinematic in how easily I could picture each scene.
I wasn't fully sure what to expect from this as I began it, but was impressed by the characterization, setting, and slow build of tension throughout the book. The writing style seems very direct at first but the complexity grows with the story. The world was immersive and Òdòdó as a main character is extremely compelling.
Thank you to Netgalley and Forge for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Slavery, Confinement, Murder, Misogyny, Grief, War, Injury/Injury detail, Violence, Sexual assault, Animal death, Death, Infertility, and Fire/Fire injury
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