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A review by ktrusty416
The Goddess Twins by Yodassa Williams
2.0
[ARC received courtesy of Spark Press, via NetGalley]
As a Blerd (Black Nerd to those unfamiliar with the term), I'm always excited to hear about a new fantasy novel that centres Magical Black girls. And Aurora and Arden do not disappoint - not only are they magical, but they are goddesses. It's a solid premise that's let down by its execution. Williams relies on showing rather than telling, and though there is too much exposition and too little nuance, there is also a lack of specificity/development in the characters (in particular the twins), the myths/magic (which traditions?) and the settings (where in Jamaica? Where in London? "British accent"? There are myriad English accents, mostly tied to place. Which one?). I love the message of family unity and female empowerment but this is also delivered in a very didactic manner.
Williams has great enthusiasm and energy, and I hope that her craft grows apace.
As a Blerd (Black Nerd to those unfamiliar with the term), I'm always excited to hear about a new fantasy novel that centres Magical Black girls. And Aurora and Arden do not disappoint - not only are they magical, but they are goddesses. It's a solid premise that's let down by its execution. Williams relies on showing rather than telling, and though there is too much exposition and too little nuance, there is also a lack of specificity/development in the characters (in particular the twins), the myths/magic (which traditions?) and the settings (where in Jamaica? Where in London? "British accent"? There are myriad English accents, mostly tied to place. Which one?). I love the message of family unity and female empowerment but this is also delivered in a very didactic manner.
Williams has great enthusiasm and energy, and I hope that her craft grows apace.