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A review by vasnycsa
Black Salt Queen by Samantha Bansil

adventurous emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Samantha Bansil’s debut novel, where powerful women blessed with godlike powers are faced with their own ambition, duty to their nation, and callings of the heart. Black Salt Queen is set in a precolonial Philippines-inspired nation where female ambition, star crossed romances separated through generational strife, and divine magic are at the forefront. Told between multiple POVs of captivating and complex characters as they inch closer to taking control of their fate, and reckon with the potentially grave consequences of taking what they want. 

If you are a fan of political intrigue, sapphic yearning, headstrong and complex characters / relationships, and a good serving of spice, look no further! Black Salt Queen is steeped in all of it and so.much.MORE!

This book made me feel the full breadth of emotions from having my eyes wide and holding my breath during tense moments, to kicking my feel and giggling during particularly spicy bits. I adored the characters as flawed and complex people and both hoped for their dreams and mourned their losses during the gripping, ever emotional ride that Bansil takes us through in her debut novel. I am just THRILLED that this is just the first installment of this amazing story, because Black Salt Queen certainly leaves you wanting more!

Thank you to Netgalley and Bindery Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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