Incredible worldbuilding and concept but unfortunately, the book was let down by the characters. The characters’ thoughts were repetitive and their actions didn’t always feel natural I’m really sad to say.
Regrettably the characters also fell into the trap of falling in love randomly. I don’t overly mind clichés, as long as they are emotive and enticing but this wasn’t that.
I feel like the characters had potential, each had intriguing backstories that could have helped me connect with them but the author didn’t dive into them as much as I would have liked. Especially between Amari and Inan, no spoilers, but DAMN do they have baggage but it wasn’t explored in a way that made you feel for them.
On to the good stuff… The worldbuilding is phenomenal! The novel has its roots in West Africa and Adeyemi has built these delicate and intricate layers on top, creating a flawless and magical world. There are numerous cultures featured within the book, each with such richness and flavour. The classes even swear differently, such a great touch.
One of the cultures has strong religious ties and Adeyemi has taken such care with this aspect that you really feel the mystery and awe the must feel. We explore the legends of Sky Mother (their deity), her children and the different powers they had and how these legends effect the people and the way they live.
The book improved in the last quarter but due to the issues with character, I have to give the book ⭐️⭐️⭐️ but before I go it’s important to say that we need more books like this! Far too often books are based either in America or Britain where there is only one person of colour and the only description you get is the fact that they are not white. This book is a much-needed breath of fresh air! I felt like I was exploring the world again. I travelled to a lot of places as a child, Africa being one of them and this book brought back so many amazing memories and all the reasons why I count my blessings that I didn’t have one place I called home. I’m such a better person for having experienced so many different ways of living and I’m so glad books exist so that I can explore more.
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*Originally posted on Instagram* https://www.instagram.com/p/B_xdT67ArgH/
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