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thebookishnarwhal's review against another edition
5.0
The Black Crescent is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to post-war Casablanca. This is a city simmering with intrigue, magic, and political upheaval. Jane Johnson weaves a tale of secrets, divided loyalties, and the blurred lines between past and future.
Meet Hamou Badi. Born in a remote village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, bears the mystical markings of the zouhry on his hands. In Moroccan folklore, the zouhry is a child of both humans and djinns, possessing the ability to find treasure, lost objects, and even water during droughts. When Hamou discovers the body of a murdered woman, his life takes an unexpected turn. Driven by a desire to do good, he leaves his village for Casablanca, hoping to become an officer of the law under the French Protectorate.
But Casablanca isn't the modern paradise he envisioned. The forcible exile of Morocco's sultan by the French ignites a nationalist uprising led by the fearsome Black Crescent—a group determined to reclaim their country. Caught between his heritage and his loyalty to his employers, Hamou faces a perilous choice. The magical lines on his palms blur as danger looms, forcing him to decide between all he knows and all he loves.
The concept of the zouhry—a mystical figure straddling the human and djinn worlds—is intriguing. Johnson skillfully integrates Moroccan folklore into a historical context, immersing readers in a world where magic and politics collide.
Hamou Badi is a compelling protagonist. His struggle to reconcile tradition with the tumultuous present resonates. His links with the zouhry add depth, and we witness his internal conflict as he navigates treacherous waters. The ensemble cast, including the enigmatic Black Crescent, adds layers to the narrative.
Johnson's prose evokes the sights, sounds, and scents of Casablanca. She captures the city's vibrancy, from bustling markets to dimly lit alleys. The tension between tradition and progress permeates every page, creating an atmospheric backdrop.
The Black Crescent explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the clash between old and new. Hamou's journey mirrors Morocco's struggle for independence, and the novel invites readers to question allegiances and the cost of change.
While the magical elements remain subtle, Johnson introduces political intrigue. The Black Crescent's shadowy activities keep readers guessing, and the shifting alliances add suspense. However, some twists lack the impact I anticipated.
Hamou's emotional turmoil is palpable. His love for family, his connection to the zouhry, and his loyalty to conflicting forces create a rich emotional tapestry. The unresolved tension between Hamou and the Black Crescent fuels the narrative.
The pacing occasionally falters, especially during exposition-heavy moments. Some secondary characters lack development, leaving their motivations unclear. Additionally, the magical aspects could have been explored further.
The Black Crescent is a blend of historical fiction and subtle fantasy. While it doesn't fully exploit its magical premise, it offers a glimpse into a pivotal period in Moroccan history. Johnson's vivid prose and Hamou's internal struggle make this a worthwhile read for fans of evocative storytelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Meet Hamou Badi. Born in a remote village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, bears the mystical markings of the zouhry on his hands. In Moroccan folklore, the zouhry is a child of both humans and djinns, possessing the ability to find treasure, lost objects, and even water during droughts. When Hamou discovers the body of a murdered woman, his life takes an unexpected turn. Driven by a desire to do good, he leaves his village for Casablanca, hoping to become an officer of the law under the French Protectorate.
But Casablanca isn't the modern paradise he envisioned. The forcible exile of Morocco's sultan by the French ignites a nationalist uprising led by the fearsome Black Crescent—a group determined to reclaim their country. Caught between his heritage and his loyalty to his employers, Hamou faces a perilous choice. The magical lines on his palms blur as danger looms, forcing him to decide between all he knows and all he loves.
The concept of the zouhry—a mystical figure straddling the human and djinn worlds—is intriguing. Johnson skillfully integrates Moroccan folklore into a historical context, immersing readers in a world where magic and politics collide.
Hamou Badi is a compelling protagonist. His struggle to reconcile tradition with the tumultuous present resonates. His links with the zouhry add depth, and we witness his internal conflict as he navigates treacherous waters. The ensemble cast, including the enigmatic Black Crescent, adds layers to the narrative.
Johnson's prose evokes the sights, sounds, and scents of Casablanca. She captures the city's vibrancy, from bustling markets to dimly lit alleys. The tension between tradition and progress permeates every page, creating an atmospheric backdrop.
The Black Crescent explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the clash between old and new. Hamou's journey mirrors Morocco's struggle for independence, and the novel invites readers to question allegiances and the cost of change.
While the magical elements remain subtle, Johnson introduces political intrigue. The Black Crescent's shadowy activities keep readers guessing, and the shifting alliances add suspense. However, some twists lack the impact I anticipated.
Hamou's emotional turmoil is palpable. His love for family, his connection to the zouhry, and his loyalty to conflicting forces create a rich emotional tapestry. The unresolved tension between Hamou and the Black Crescent fuels the narrative.
The pacing occasionally falters, especially during exposition-heavy moments. Some secondary characters lack development, leaving their motivations unclear. Additionally, the magical aspects could have been explored further.
The Black Crescent is a blend of historical fiction and subtle fantasy. While it doesn't fully exploit its magical premise, it offers a glimpse into a pivotal period in Moroccan history. Johnson's vivid prose and Hamou's internal struggle make this a worthwhile read for fans of evocative storytelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
kelly_e's review against another edition
informative
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Title: The Black Crescent
Author: Jane Johnson
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 3.50
Pub Date: March 5, 2024
I received a complimentary eARC from Simon & Schuster Canada via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #Gifted #Ad
T H R E E • W O R D S
Atmospheric • Detailed • Lengthy
📖 S Y N O P S I S
Hamou Badi is born in a village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains with the markings of the zouhry on his hands. In Morocco, the zouhry is a figure of legend, a child of both humans and djinns, capable of finding treasure, lost objects, and even water in the worst of droughts. But when young Hamou finds the body of a murdered woman, his life is forever changed.
Haunted by this unsolved murder and driven by the desire to do good in the world, Hamou leaves his village for Casablanca to become an officer of the law under the French Protectorate.
But Casablanca is not the shining beacon of modernity he was expecting. The forcible exile of Morocco’s sultan by the French sparks a nationalist uprising led by violent dissident groups, none so fearsome as the Black Crescent. Torn between his heritage and his employers, Hamou will be caught in the crossfire.
The lines between right and wrong, past and future, the old world and the new, are not as clear as the magical lines on his palms. And as the danger grows, Hamou is forced to choose between all he knows and all he loves.
💭 T H O U G H T S
I have previously read and enjoyed Jane Johnson's work so when I was offered an ARC of The Black Crescent I gratefully accepted, especially considering this one sounded like it would have a side of magical realism.
Each of Jane Johnson's novels is vastly different, covering a variety of historical contexts, yet she delivers culturally rich stories filled with vivid detail where the reader is transported directly into the story. There is no doubt in my mind (once again) that she has done her research. With that being said, the pacing is incredibly slow and at times, I found myself skimming. It is so descriptive, I ended up being drawn out of the narrative completely. Additionally, the pacing felt disjointed between the first and second halves, which left me somewhat confused.
From reading the synopsis, I was desperately hoping for more of a magical realism centric plot than what I actually got. The historical detail really overtakes the narrative and the djinn doesn't figure into the story as much as I was hoping for. In my opinion, this was a missed opportunity.
Despite appreciating learning about Morocco's fight to gain independence, in my opinion, The Black Crescent is the weakest of Jane Johnson's works I have read so far. The ending tied things about a little too nicely, and I had really been hoping for more of the magical aspect. Regardless, I will continue to keep an eye on what she publishes next because I love exploring and learning about less covered parts of history.
📚 R E A D • I F • Y O U • L I K E
• learning new parts of history
• furry companions
⚠️ CW: racism, xenophobia, islamophobia, colonization, death, violence, gun violence, police brutality, rape, sexual assault
Author: Jane Johnson
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 3.50
Pub Date: March 5, 2024
I received a complimentary eARC from Simon & Schuster Canada via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #Gifted #Ad
T H R E E • W O R D S
Atmospheric • Detailed • Lengthy
📖 S Y N O P S I S
Hamou Badi is born in a village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains with the markings of the zouhry on his hands. In Morocco, the zouhry is a figure of legend, a child of both humans and djinns, capable of finding treasure, lost objects, and even water in the worst of droughts. But when young Hamou finds the body of a murdered woman, his life is forever changed.
Haunted by this unsolved murder and driven by the desire to do good in the world, Hamou leaves his village for Casablanca to become an officer of the law under the French Protectorate.
But Casablanca is not the shining beacon of modernity he was expecting. The forcible exile of Morocco’s sultan by the French sparks a nationalist uprising led by violent dissident groups, none so fearsome as the Black Crescent. Torn between his heritage and his employers, Hamou will be caught in the crossfire.
The lines between right and wrong, past and future, the old world and the new, are not as clear as the magical lines on his palms. And as the danger grows, Hamou is forced to choose between all he knows and all he loves.
💭 T H O U G H T S
I have previously read and enjoyed Jane Johnson's work so when I was offered an ARC of The Black Crescent I gratefully accepted, especially considering this one sounded like it would have a side of magical realism.
Each of Jane Johnson's novels is vastly different, covering a variety of historical contexts, yet she delivers culturally rich stories filled with vivid detail where the reader is transported directly into the story. There is no doubt in my mind (once again) that she has done her research. With that being said, the pacing is incredibly slow and at times, I found myself skimming. It is so descriptive, I ended up being drawn out of the narrative completely. Additionally, the pacing felt disjointed between the first and second halves, which left me somewhat confused.
From reading the synopsis, I was desperately hoping for more of a magical realism centric plot than what I actually got. The historical detail really overtakes the narrative and the djinn doesn't figure into the story as much as I was hoping for. In my opinion, this was a missed opportunity.
Despite appreciating learning about Morocco's fight to gain independence, in my opinion, The Black Crescent is the weakest of Jane Johnson's works I have read so far. The ending tied things about a little too nicely, and I had really been hoping for more of the magical aspect. Regardless, I will continue to keep an eye on what she publishes next because I love exploring and learning about less covered parts of history.
📚 R E A D • I F • Y O U • L I K E
• learning new parts of history
• furry companions
⚠️ CW: racism, xenophobia, islamophobia, colonization, death, violence, gun violence, police brutality, rape, sexual assault
Content Warnings
Graphic: Islamophobia, Xenophobia, Racism, and Colonisation
Moderate: War, Death, Violence, Gun violence, and Police brutality
Minor: Rape and Sexual assault
krissysreading's review against another edition
4.0
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Set in 1950's Casablanca during the French Occupation of Morocco, and the revolution of it's people that followed.
We follow out main character Hamou Badi, he grew up in the mountains, with his mother and sisters. From a young age he was told he has the markings of the zouhry on his hands. A figure of legend said to be able to find treasure and lost objects. The only thing he finds as a kid is the body of a forgotten woman, that shapes his life forever.
Hamou's experience as a child influenced him to join the police force in Casablanca, the French Protectorate. And just as he is proving himself to be a fair a true officer, the sulan is exiled, and the people of Morocco begin to rebel against the French. He finds himself caught between duty, and teh responsibility to his family, community, and roots.
This novel felt so well researched, the culture felt so rich throughout the story. This novel felt especially poignant now with it's themes of anti-colonialism, considering what is going on in Gaza. I have never been to Morocco, nor was I even aware of it's history, but this story did such a wonderful job of fully painting the picture for me. The characterization of Hamou was so masterfully done. Watching him be stuck between what his superiors are telling him to do at work, and staying true to himself and his people was complex but the author navigated it so well. There was so much intrigue, and I never felt like I was just reading a history lesson. I just wish there was a little bit more of the djinn and zouhry lore.
Set in 1950's Casablanca during the French Occupation of Morocco, and the revolution of it's people that followed.
We follow out main character Hamou Badi, he grew up in the mountains, with his mother and sisters. From a young age he was told he has the markings of the zouhry on his hands. A figure of legend said to be able to find treasure and lost objects. The only thing he finds as a kid is the body of a forgotten woman, that shapes his life forever.
Hamou's experience as a child influenced him to join the police force in Casablanca, the French Protectorate. And just as he is proving himself to be a fair a true officer, the sulan is exiled, and the people of Morocco begin to rebel against the French. He finds himself caught between duty, and teh responsibility to his family, community, and roots.
This novel felt so well researched, the culture felt so rich throughout the story. This novel felt especially poignant now with it's themes of anti-colonialism, considering what is going on in Gaza. I have never been to Morocco, nor was I even aware of it's history, but this story did such a wonderful job of fully painting the picture for me. The characterization of Hamou was so masterfully done. Watching him be stuck between what his superiors are telling him to do at work, and staying true to himself and his people was complex but the author navigated it so well. There was so much intrigue, and I never felt like I was just reading a history lesson. I just wish there was a little bit more of the djinn and zouhry lore.
suzea's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
hopeful
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
kimb2's review against another edition
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
It took me a while to get that this book is a character study. It’s the journey of a man who espouses peace rather than violence and liberation rather than oppression.
Hamou is a man at a crossroads. He is a police officer for the French, whom he hates, but he has to support his mother and siblings. He is stuck in Casablanca working for the oppressor’s when he’d rather be in his small village with his family. He is a humble man, with a gift, although he never seems to realize it. He is unselfish and kind.
Set during the French occupation of Morocco, this is a story of resistance, the struggle for independence and forging one’s identity.
This story is very different from the White Hare and the Sea Gate. It is still very atmospheric, but there is less mystery in this story. Overall, this is a great read for fans of Jane Johnson. There is a great cat that features throughout the story too.
The author’s note and glossary at the back of the book provide context and are worth a look.
I want to thank Simon & Schuster Canada for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
hinalovestoread's review against another edition
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.0
As a South Asian, when I usually think about colonialism, I think of British and my part of the world. This made French colonialism in Africa very real for me.
15.05.2024
Originally published on Hina Loves To Read
Before I begin the review, I’d like to thank Simon and Schuster for the ARC they provided.
Jane Johnson’s “The Black Crescent” is a historical novel set in the tumultuous backdrop of post-war Casablanca, exploring themes of identity, colonial impact, and personal integrity. Through the life of Hamou Badi, a man believed to be a zouhry—marked by djinns and destined to find lost treasures and solutions—the novel delves into Morocco’s struggle for independence from French rule.
The novel begins with an intriguing premise that combines elements of Moroccan folklore with the harsh realities of colonial occupation. Hamou’s journey from a village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains to the bustling, conflicted streets of Casablanca promises a tale rich with cultural insights and historical depth. The use of the zouhry, a figure from legend, allows Johnson to explore the spiritual and mystical aspects of Moroccan culture, adding a layer of depth to the narrative that enriches the historical setting.
“The Black Crescent” is, in many ways, a novel of dualities. It contrasts the mystical with the mundane, the tranquil village life with the chaotic urban struggle, and personal ambition with nationalistic duty. Hamou, as the protagonist, is compelling and well-crafted, embodying the internal conflict of a man torn between the world he knows and the injustices he cannot ignore.
However, the book’s structure poses some challenges. The narrative is split into two distinct halves: the first is intense and action-packed, marked by violence and Hamou’s acute personal involvement in the independence movement. This part of the book is gripping and sets a high expectation with its pace and emotional depth. The second half, in contrast, feels like a different narrative thread, focusing on Hamou’s personal successes and a more subdued engagement with the conflict. This shift gives the impression of an unresolved symphony, where the initial crescendo is not adequately echoed in the finale.
For readers with a history touched by colonialism, especially those from South Asia like myself, “The Black Crescent” resonates on a personal level. It captures the emotional and cultural upheaval faced by those under foreign rule, making Hamou’s experiences both poignant and relatable. The struggle for identity and autonomy in a colonized land is a universal theme that Johnson handles with sensitivity and insight.
Rated three out of five stars, “The Black Crescent” offers a lot to appreciate but leaves something to be desired in terms of narrative cohesion. The rich cultural tapestry and the compelling protagonist are highlights, but the uneven pacing and divided focus might leave some readers wanting more.
In conclusion, “The Black Crescent” is a commendable attempt to shed light on a pivotal moment in Moroccan history through the lens of a deeply personal story. It’s a recommended read for those interested in historical narratives enriched with cultural lore, provided they can navigate the structural idiosyncrasies that might detract from an otherwise captivating tale.
15.05.2024
Originally published on Hina Loves To Read
Before I begin the review, I’d like to thank Simon and Schuster for the ARC they provided.
Jane Johnson’s “The Black Crescent” is a historical novel set in the tumultuous backdrop of post-war Casablanca, exploring themes of identity, colonial impact, and personal integrity. Through the life of Hamou Badi, a man believed to be a zouhry—marked by djinns and destined to find lost treasures and solutions—the novel delves into Morocco’s struggle for independence from French rule.
The novel begins with an intriguing premise that combines elements of Moroccan folklore with the harsh realities of colonial occupation. Hamou’s journey from a village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains to the bustling, conflicted streets of Casablanca promises a tale rich with cultural insights and historical depth. The use of the zouhry, a figure from legend, allows Johnson to explore the spiritual and mystical aspects of Moroccan culture, adding a layer of depth to the narrative that enriches the historical setting.
“The Black Crescent” is, in many ways, a novel of dualities. It contrasts the mystical with the mundane, the tranquil village life with the chaotic urban struggle, and personal ambition with nationalistic duty. Hamou, as the protagonist, is compelling and well-crafted, embodying the internal conflict of a man torn between the world he knows and the injustices he cannot ignore.
However, the book’s structure poses some challenges. The narrative is split into two distinct halves: the first is intense and action-packed, marked by violence and Hamou’s acute personal involvement in the independence movement. This part of the book is gripping and sets a high expectation with its pace and emotional depth. The second half, in contrast, feels like a different narrative thread, focusing on Hamou’s personal successes and a more subdued engagement with the conflict. This shift gives the impression of an unresolved symphony, where the initial crescendo is not adequately echoed in the finale.
For readers with a history touched by colonialism, especially those from South Asia like myself, “The Black Crescent” resonates on a personal level. It captures the emotional and cultural upheaval faced by those under foreign rule, making Hamou’s experiences both poignant and relatable. The struggle for identity and autonomy in a colonized land is a universal theme that Johnson handles with sensitivity and insight.
Rated three out of five stars, “The Black Crescent” offers a lot to appreciate but leaves something to be desired in terms of narrative cohesion. The rich cultural tapestry and the compelling protagonist are highlights, but the uneven pacing and divided focus might leave some readers wanting more.
In conclusion, “The Black Crescent” is a commendable attempt to shed light on a pivotal moment in Moroccan history through the lens of a deeply personal story. It’s a recommended read for those interested in historical narratives enriched with cultural lore, provided they can navigate the structural idiosyncrasies that might detract from an otherwise captivating tale.
leejean's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
I’ll admit I requested this ARC on the assumption that the story was historical fiction mixed with Islamic mythology. It sounded right up my alley! The book description, unfortunately, does it a bit of injustice. There is such an emphasis placed on the djinn angle, when this doesn’t feature into the story much at all. In fact, the main character denounces being a zouhry every time it comes up. I think this book would be better served in finding the right audience if the zouhry and magical lines on palms weren’t mentioned at all.
Black Crescent is a historical fiction novel set in Morocco during French Colonial rule, known as the French protectorate. We follow Hamou Badi, a young man who grew up in the Anti-Atlas mountains. He moves in with family in Casablanca for eduction and employment opportunities, sending most of his money back home to his family.
In the first half of the book, Hamou is employed as a Surete, a French police officer. It’s a position he is proud of, as he has a drive to help people, and a very noble heart. As tensions mount between the French and the Nationalists, Hamou is pulled between performing his duties and keeping the people he loves safe.
The second half sees Hamou return home. This part is much less tense, yet I found it more enjoyable. There is something about a slice-of-life story that really draws me in. Getting to know the main character more is a huge bonus to this type of story telling.
Overall I found Hamou to be very well written. He felt real, a person with flaws, who makes mistakes but tries his best. It was the secondary characters that were a little flat for me. Even important side characters, like Mona and Zina, did not feel particularly fleshed out. I honestly found Sofiane the most engaging, and he has a very small part in the book. Oh, and the cat, Madani!
The Black Crescent is very well-researched, and it shows. I loved the descriptions of Morocco, the scents and food and Moroccan life and culture. The glossary at the back was a huge help. I’d almost suggest adding footnotes as well to keep reader flow going.
While the writing is descriptive and absorbing, I feel like this book could do with more editing. There was more than one time I ran into a sentence so long, and filled with so much information, that I had forgotten the beginning by the time I got to the end, and had to re-read. There are also instances of over-descriptiveness that add nothing to the story or the picture being painted. For example, at one point Hamou walks into an office and we get a count of the number of people present, including number standing and seating, with no other description.
This is just a me thing, but I found the ending was a bit predictable and trite. People who like romance will probably love the ending. It was satisfying to see everything come together and be wrapped up, while still left on a very hopeful note for the future.
Overall the Black Crescent was a very interesting historical fiction read. Rating 3.5/5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for providing the ARC of this book. This review is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Black Crescent is a historical fiction novel set in Morocco during French Colonial rule, known as the French protectorate. We follow Hamou Badi, a young man who grew up in the Anti-Atlas mountains. He moves in with family in Casablanca for eduction and employment opportunities, sending most of his money back home to his family.
In the first half of the book, Hamou is employed as a Surete, a French police officer. It’s a position he is proud of, as he has a drive to help people, and a very noble heart. As tensions mount between the French and the Nationalists, Hamou is pulled between performing his duties and keeping the people he loves safe.
The second half sees Hamou return home. This part is much less tense, yet I found it more enjoyable. There is something about a slice-of-life story that really draws me in. Getting to know the main character more is a huge bonus to this type of story telling.
Overall I found Hamou to be very well written. He felt real, a person with flaws, who makes mistakes but tries his best. It was the secondary characters that were a little flat for me. Even important side characters, like Mona and Zina, did not feel particularly fleshed out. I honestly found Sofiane the most engaging, and he has a very small part in the book. Oh, and the cat, Madani!
The Black Crescent is very well-researched, and it shows. I loved the descriptions of Morocco, the scents and food and Moroccan life and culture. The glossary at the back was a huge help. I’d almost suggest adding footnotes as well to keep reader flow going.
While the writing is descriptive and absorbing, I feel like this book could do with more editing. There was more than one time I ran into a sentence so long, and filled with so much information, that I had forgotten the beginning by the time I got to the end, and had to re-read. There are also instances of over-descriptiveness that add nothing to the story or the picture being painted. For example, at one point Hamou walks into an office and we get a count of the number of people present, including number standing and seating, with no other description.
This is just a me thing, but I found the ending was a bit predictable and trite. People who like romance will probably love the ending. It was satisfying to see everything come together and be wrapped up, while still left on a very hopeful note for the future.
Overall the Black Crescent was a very interesting historical fiction read. Rating 3.5/5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for providing the ARC of this book. This review is my honest and voluntary opinion.
kaitie_reads's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story wasn't exactly what I expected, I thought maybe there'd be some more magical realism with the mention of Djinns in the summary, but I enjoyed it all the same. This story also educated me on a topic I previously knew nothing about (the previous French Protectorate in Morocco), so that's always a bonus for me.
The story follows Hamou as he grapples with his own moral compass and is very much a coming to age tale but in a divided land. Hamou works as an officer under the French Protectorate and firmly believes in empathy and doing what is morally sound and just, but soon learns that the world is more complicated than right or wrong and good or evil. The author wrote the book in such a way that we can really feel his pain in being torn between two worlds when there is wrong and evil on both sides.
There were some parts that were slow to read, and I did struggle a little bit as there are many names, titles, and characters. I really liked the end of the book and thought the conclusion was well done. I also love an animal companion, and Madani, the cat, really added to the story for me - I loved the relationship between Hamou and his pet. I think Jane Johnson did a great job at making the story relatable and also adding in some humor.
Overall, it was a good read, and I was pleased to learn more about a culture that I'm not very familiar with and some of the history of its people.
This story wasn't exactly what I expected, I thought maybe there'd be some more magical realism with the mention of Djinns in the summary, but I enjoyed it all the same. This story also educated me on a topic I previously knew nothing about (the previous French Protectorate in Morocco), so that's always a bonus for me.
The story follows Hamou as he grapples with his own moral compass and is very much a coming to age tale but in a divided land. Hamou works as an officer under the French Protectorate and firmly believes in empathy and doing what is morally sound and just, but soon learns that the world is more complicated than right or wrong and good or evil. The author wrote the book in such a way that we can really feel his pain in being torn between two worlds when there is wrong and evil on both sides.
There were some parts that were slow to read, and I did struggle a little bit as there are many names, titles, and characters. I really liked the end of the book and thought the conclusion was well done. I also love an animal companion, and Madani, the cat, really added to the story for me - I loved the relationship between Hamou and his pet. I think Jane Johnson did a great job at making the story relatable and also adding in some humor.
Overall, it was a good read, and I was pleased to learn more about a culture that I'm not very familiar with and some of the history of its people.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism, Police brutality, Xenophobia, Murder, Islamophobia, and Gun violence
Minor: Rape and Sexual assault