A review by rachelroo13
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

4.0

Another BookTok find that definitely lives up to the hype! I'm very into takes on African folklore/mythology right now, and this one had everything. This is also the first book I've read in a while that was also focused on feminism and empowering women. As someone who grew up in the church and was around those who thought the woman's place was not in leadership etc., the lore of the Infinite Wisdoms and how all women, not just the alaki, were treated was especially poignant. If I had any complaint, it would be that the Big Reveal at the end was accepted a little too quickly by the alaki population; I think it would've been more realistic if it had taken more time, but I also recognize that it was a thing that needed to happen quickly in the moment. Very excited to read The Merciless Ones next!