A review by tdotrenae
The Maid and the Crocodile by Jordan Ifueko

adventurous challenging inspiring 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

5.0

Honestly, I don't think I've read anything like this book (in the best way!). For context, I have not read the Raybearer series (yet), but I am told that this story does have some spoilers for Raybearer and Redemptor. First of all, the cover is STUNNING! Like my goodness, I have never seen something so captivating. 

This book follows Small Sade, who accidentally binds herself to the Crocodile, a powerful being! I think this quote is so powerful and also serves as the premise of this book: ""Why not shape the world you live in instead of just existing inside it?"

This book touches on everything: oppression, societal pressures, privilege, socioeconomic differences, disability (and lack of accessibility), LGBT+ issues, maternal health, past trauma, and so much more. There's quite a few trigger warns at the beginning so be mindful of that. 

Every single one of the characters are vibrant and lovely, and people you want to keep around. Every character has such depth and I just want to read about them forever. There's a huge component of found family AND romance that is not just sugar cookies and rainbows. The Crocodile is so swoon worthy, like wow. He's trying his best, which sometimes gets him into trouble.

Like, wow. I am speechless honestly. I know that it is categorized as a YA book, but I would definitely put it on the adult side of the spectrum for sure. There's just so much to love about this book. I don't have the beautiful language to inspire you to read like the author, but PLEASE RUN AND PICK THIS ONE UP. I cant wait to read this one again!