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kaschastern 's review for:
The Scorpion Queen
by Mina Fears
adventurous
dark
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A fresh and captivating retelling, spinning a narrative that is both original and empowering.
In this dark fantasy inspired by a Malian fairy tale, Amie, once the daughter of a prosperous salt merchant, has her life shattered after being framed for a scandalous crime. At sixteen, she is disinherited and forced to serve Princess Mariama of Mali. The emperor has created deadly trials for Mariama’s suitors, with those who fail meeting a gruesome fate. As Amie endures life at court, she grows close to the princess, learning of her tragic circumstances. Torn between escaping with her love, Kader, or helping Mariama end the brutal trials, Amie must summon the courage to seek the aid of an exiled god, risking everything to take control of her fate.
Amie's singular POV works extremely well in this narrative. Amie is self-absorbed and believes she is superior to those around her. This leads her into a series of chaotic and dangerous situations, ultimately making her realize that it’s her actions that have thrown her world into turmoil. What sets this book apart is its focus on women saving themselves, breaking away from the traditional narrative of a prince and a happily ever after. Instead, it centers on the strength, determination, and self-reliance of its main female characters as they try to free themselves from servitude and oppression.
The dynamic between siblings is beautifully portrayed, showing the complexity of their relationships. The mixture of rivalry, competition, and deep love creates a believable and emotional connection between characters, adding depth to the narrative. The way they fight, blame, apologize, and love each other brings a sense of realism and relatability to the story.
The book also delves into the darker aspects of power and manipulation. It makes a strong statement about how coercion, deception, and those who believe they can control fate, whether human or divine, rarely succeed. The violence and death that accompany the actions of those in power are not sugar-coated, with gruesome descriptions that heighten the stakes of the story.
The magical elements are wonderfully intriguing. The concept of sorcery being a divine gift granted to select humans adds a rich layer to the world-building, and the gods' unpredictability only adds to the allure. I'm particularly excited to see how these magical elements unfold in future installments and whether we will encounter other gods with their own devious agendas.
Overall, The Scorpion Queen is a thrilling and unique read. It's a story of personal growth, rebellion, and the consequences of power, all set in a world full of danger, magic, and unforgettable characters. If you're looking for a story that subverts traditional fairy tale tropes while delivering an action-packed, emotional ride, this book is a must-read.