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A review by azrah786
A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark
4.5
[This review can also be found on my BLOG]
**I received a proof copy from Orbit Books UK in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, gore, murder, immolation, death, slavery, police brutality, racism, racial slurs, self harm
Ever since I picked up the first of the Dead Djinn universe novellas early last year I was immediately on board the “please please PLEASE give us a full length novel in this world” train. So trust me I was absolutely ecstatic when news of this novel came about and even more so when I got the chance to read it early!
The bizarre massacre of a secret society devoted to Al-Jahiz – the legendary individual who changed the world forever by opening the doors between the magical and mundane worlds – threatens the peace in Egypt, particularly when it is someone claiming to be Al-Jahiz returned who confesses to the crime. Enter the Egyptian Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments and Supernatural Entities and who else but their most renowned and impeccably dressed agent, Fatma Al-Sha’arawi to lead the case.
A Master of Djinn welcomes us back with open arms to all the magic, mystery and mayhem, and this time Clark has given us the keys to fully unlock and throw open the doors to his alternate steampunk, early 20th century Cairo which we only caught glimpses of before.
I’d personally recommend picking up the novellas* first if you’re like me and prefer reading things in chronological order however, diving into this novel not having read them won’t hinder your reading experience too much.
[* The novella A Dead Djinn in Cairo can be read for free on Tor’s website here and short story The Angel of Khan el-Khalili here]
The transformation of Egypt through the integration of supernatural beings into society is absolutely fascinating and the storytelling just adds to the magic. Clark seamlessly blends the everyday cultures of Cairo with fantastical and steampunk elements allowing you to walk its streets in a whole new way. Rich in detail the story reintroduces us to and gives a broader understanding of the mythology, lore and array of evolving practices present among the people which were first described to us in the novellas. There were also titbits of information on how the breach in realms has effected the world outside of Egypt too!
Along with jumping back into this lush universe, I thoroughly enjoyed being on an all new adventure with Agent Fatma. From her spectacular fashion sense to her sharp mind she is such a fun character. It was also wonderful to see some familiar faces as well as some new faces around to help her! We have Fatma and Siti teaming up again which is nothing short of entertaining, as well as more time exploring the softer, more personal moments of their relationship. There is also a new addition to the kickass female cast in Agent Hadia, Fatma’s new partner, and the mentor-mentee dynamic that they have was wonderfully written!
The primary murder mystery storyline I’m not going to say too much about so as not to spoil anything, but it is masterfully interwoven with discussions of various social issues of the times as well as allusions to the country’s actual colonial history.
I will admit that I caught on to some of the reveals earlier than they were let on however, take my word that the rich world-building, the perfect balance of crime solving mystery and action, and the witty cast of characters will keep you absorbed with every turn of the page.
If you love historical fantasy, or fantasy stories with a bit of mystery I can’t recommend this book (and the novellas of course) enough!
Final Rating – 4.5/5 Stars
**I received a proof copy from Orbit Books UK in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, gore, murder, immolation, death, slavery, police brutality, racism, racial slurs, self harm
Ever since I picked up the first of the Dead Djinn universe novellas early last year I was immediately on board the “please please PLEASE give us a full length novel in this world” train. So trust me I was absolutely ecstatic when news of this novel came about and even more so when I got the chance to read it early!
The bizarre massacre of a secret society devoted to Al-Jahiz – the legendary individual who changed the world forever by opening the doors between the magical and mundane worlds – threatens the peace in Egypt, particularly when it is someone claiming to be Al-Jahiz returned who confesses to the crime. Enter the Egyptian Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments and Supernatural Entities and who else but their most renowned and impeccably dressed agent, Fatma Al-Sha’arawi to lead the case.
A Master of Djinn welcomes us back with open arms to all the magic, mystery and mayhem, and this time Clark has given us the keys to fully unlock and throw open the doors to his alternate steampunk, early 20th century Cairo which we only caught glimpses of before.
I’d personally recommend picking up the novellas* first if you’re like me and prefer reading things in chronological order however, diving into this novel not having read them won’t hinder your reading experience too much.
[* The novella A Dead Djinn in Cairo can be read for free on Tor’s website here and short story The Angel of Khan el-Khalili here]
The transformation of Egypt through the integration of supernatural beings into society is absolutely fascinating and the storytelling just adds to the magic. Clark seamlessly blends the everyday cultures of Cairo with fantastical and steampunk elements allowing you to walk its streets in a whole new way. Rich in detail the story reintroduces us to and gives a broader understanding of the mythology, lore and array of evolving practices present among the people which were first described to us in the novellas. There were also titbits of information on how the breach in realms has effected the world outside of Egypt too!
Along with jumping back into this lush universe, I thoroughly enjoyed being on an all new adventure with Agent Fatma. From her spectacular fashion sense to her sharp mind she is such a fun character. It was also wonderful to see some familiar faces as well as some new faces around to help her! We have Fatma and Siti teaming up again which is nothing short of entertaining, as well as more time exploring the softer, more personal moments of their relationship. There is also a new addition to the kickass female cast in Agent Hadia, Fatma’s new partner, and the mentor-mentee dynamic that they have was wonderfully written!
The primary murder mystery storyline I’m not going to say too much about so as not to spoil anything, but it is masterfully interwoven with discussions of various social issues of the times as well as allusions to the country’s actual colonial history.
I will admit that I caught on to some of the reveals earlier than they were let on however, take my word that the rich world-building, the perfect balance of crime solving mystery and action, and the witty cast of characters will keep you absorbed with every turn of the page.
If you love historical fantasy, or fantasy stories with a bit of mystery I can’t recommend this book (and the novellas of course) enough!
Final Rating – 4.5/5 Stars
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Murder, Violence, and Death
Moderate: Racism, Racial slurs, Misogyny, and Slavery