A review by benidamika
Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko

adventurous hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko 

"He tasted like salt, like grief and fear" - Pg 469

This is my first time reading West African inspired YA fantasy and I adored it! Jordan Ifueko did an amazing job with this debut. The characters were enchanting and the story telling is powerful. I admit picking this book because of the cover but Ifueko doesn't disappoint!

The book is seeped in colorful African culture and Ifueko's writing is so vivid - it's an EXPERIENCE. I admit it was a bit difficult to keep track of the names of the characters and the magical beings but it got easier the more I got into the book.

It explores themes of family relationships, friendship, revenge, power dynamics, misogynistic traditions and oppression of the poor.

What I really liked about the book is that Tarisai is not driven by romantic love to conquer whatever demons she had. She was selfless to a point that annoyed me a little but at the same time, that in my eyes, made her a true queen. 

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