Nothing is more important than loyalty.
But what if you’ve sworn to protect the one you were born to destroy?
Tarisai has always longed for the warmth of a family. She was raised in isolation by a mysterious, often absent mother known only as The Lady. The Lady sends her to the capital of the global empire of Aritsar to compete with other children to be chosen as one of the Crown Prince’s Council of 11. But The Lady has other ideas, including a magical wish that Tarisai is compelled to obey: Kill the Crown Prince once she gains his trust.
By Mike
Youngsters, heads up! As far as the young adult medium comes, this one is refreshing in its take on the fantasy genre because of the West African myths and culture it is rooted in. With rich detail ranging from Yoruba influences to general Black hair culture, it is a lot of fun to read some fantasy about West African spirits and demons and characters who tend to royal locks, braids and edges.
The story is a clever mix of mythological storytelling and teenage drama, which masks its many shortcomings as a court drama and character study. Conversely, its clichés, poor pacing and often forgettable dialogue are elevated by profound themes. This one displays huge topics of free will, becoming who you are and the tension between conflicting (maternal) loyalties, all the while delivering some truly magical and suspenseful chapters.
Between the lines lie important questions about patriarchy, matriarchy, sexual identity and intercultural relations that might not find enough space in this book, but all in all it is charming, rich and heartfelt enough to be on your shelf.
