A review by vgdesigns
The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by S.A. Chakraborty

adventurous dark reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

 I Will Fight Through Fire 

S.A. Chakraborty returns to the mysterious coast of the Indian Ocean where myth and monsters live. Legends follow Amina al-Sirafi wherever she goes, even as she lives a quiet life in hiding for the sake of her daughter. When the desperate Lady Salim finds her, wishing to hire Amina al-Sirafi to rescue her kidnaped granddaughter Dunya. Threatening her family with rumors of past deeds, old regrets, and a tragic death. Amina al-Sirafi will face all odds to rescue Dunya, protect her family, and prevent a calamity.

The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi is written by the character Jamal al-Hilli on behalf of Amina al-Sirafi the pirate. It is a treat to hear this tale in Amina al-Sirafi’s perspective, as she deserves to tell her own story. She also adds some humor by often interrupting her tale to chide Jamal. This adventure starts as a heist novel, as Amina al-Sirafi is given the impossible task of rescuing Dunya. She must first find her crew, and very talented friends. Dalila the paranoid, and mischievous poisoner. Tinbu her loyal, and flirty first mate. Majed the serious, but wise navigator. Then Raksh her ever cursed, and traitorous husband. Jamal often inserts random passages to hype Amina al-Sirafi’s friends, various locations, and myth. Though this job is not all as it seems, Dunya holds a great secret, and a rescue mission turns into an impossible adventure. A brief warning for vomiting, swearing, threats of rape, and mass murder.

Amina al-Sirafi herself is a strong dynamic character full of compassion toward her diverse crew. S.A. Chakraborty is very careful and considerate with all the various religions, with their diverse cultures, that she introduces into her book. Though this is an era of mass murders, the fault is placed squarely on the perpetrators. Amina al-Sirafi is also vocal about the treatment of women, and advocates for their better treatment. Proving her strength by fighting for her family and crew even in the darkest moments. She is an impressive pirate, and even more remarkable hero.

Filled with magic, dangerous obstacles, pirates, and monsters. The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi is a vibrant story of the struggle between the desire to become legendary, and the love of a child. S.A. Chakraborty leaves The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi open ended, leading to several sequels, and perhaps a prequal. Hopefully filled with even more magic, monsters, and adventures. 

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