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A review by therearenobadbooks
Masquerade by O.O. Sangoyomi
dark
inspiring
reflective
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? Yes
5.0
From poverty to queen, from innocence to power, young Òdòdó has surpassed the morally grey format to become an amazing villain. May be dark and violent for some readers, but I love the origin story of a villain. And if we think about it, is she a villain? Her decisions are for the protection of the people, the poor, and the women...
A reimagined/Persephone-ish-inspired African historical fantasy (15th century West Africa) where blacksmiths are women who have lost all, becoming part of the lowest rank in society, they can only serve as crafting metal. Called witches also. It's not about magic.
Òdòdó is kidnapped to become the bride of a king who claims to love her and to do all to make her happy but also to him, women have a specific role and he imprisons, coherence, and threatens her constantly. She takes advantage of her situation to learn and gain power. She grows quickly as a character and learns from those who betray and taunt her. The political intrigue is a power struggle that she doesn't relinquish. A crescendo of twists and turns.
She is constantly torn between love and freedom until all becomes clear to her. The rescue is the most epic chapter and the end is exhilarating.
Read in one sitting. Couldn't stop reading/listening to it. Ariel Blake has the perfect voice for this story.
Thank you publisher and netgalley.
A reimagined/Persephone-ish-inspired African historical fantasy (15th century West Africa) where blacksmiths are women who have lost all, becoming part of the lowest rank in society, they can only serve as crafting metal. Called witches also. It's not about magic.
Òdòdó is kidnapped to become the bride of a king who claims to love her and to do all to make her happy but also to him, women have a specific role and he imprisons, coherence, and threatens her constantly. She takes advantage of her situation to learn and gain power. She grows quickly as a character and learns from those who betray and taunt her. The political intrigue is a power struggle that she doesn't relinquish. A crescendo of twists and turns.
She is constantly torn between love and freedom until all becomes clear to her. The rescue is the most epic chapter and the end is exhilarating.
Read in one sitting. Couldn't stop reading/listening to it. Ariel Blake has the perfect voice for this story.
Thank you publisher and netgalley.