I've been seeing more Nigerian fantasy titles being released and I wanted to try this one out. Sadly, this didn't grab my attention very much. I found more dystopian tropes that I don't like and less fantasy. I did like Mama Agba's character and the writing was solid enough. Maybe I'll give it another try when it's out, but it didn't make a good first impression.

I absolutely cannot wait to read the complete storyline. The six chapters that I was so honored to read was truly engaging. I love the plot, the strong female characters and the cultural diversity that gives the story a strong, rich, engaging presence.

I've never been more desperate after a sampler to sell my soul to get an ARC of this extremely promising book. So we start out in a world where magic was banished years ago, resulting in the death of Zélie's mother, who was a maji. Under the current rule of the kingdom, all of the remaining generations of maji are oppressed and also distinguished by the color of their skin and the whiteness of their hair.

So far, we got introduced to three POVs, which I thought that all of them were necessary and a part to make this story connect the dots. There's Zélie, one of the maji's daughter who is training how to fight with staffs and swords and has plans to overthrow the patriachy, and is such a bada*s at doing that.

The writing is descriptive and rich in details (but not too overboard), and seems to strike the perfect balance so I'm simply astounded by the craft and promise that this debut author is displaying.

Will I continue reading this book once it comes out? Absolutely yes, because I have a feeling that this might become one of my favs in the very near future, and I'm so grateful to have gotten a sneak peek thanks to NetGalley the publisher in exchange for my honest review of the first six chapters.

I was immediately immersed in the world and captivated by the characters and story. I can't wait to read more!

Great start, really excited to read the full book when it comes out.

Let's just start with this strikingly beautiful cover. It is art! I must have it on my shelves and perhaps on my wall. I received a preview excerpt of the book from Netgalley and the publisher.

I've finished. Of course the sampler left on a hanger. This will be a best seller for sure. There's so much here and it's a page turner. I don't read many books like this anymore so, my opinion is of a novice. However, I know good writing and plot. Based upon what I've read thus far, I'd recommend and will definitely buy a copy for myself.

I am totally hooked. I don't normally read excerpts but I had to make an exception to this one. Ugh, now I just wish I had the full book. Why is March so far off?

seems super interesting so far! i wish there was more!

I need to be honest. This was way better that I expected. You know when people hype something up so much that when you actually make the time to read it that it isn't what you was expecting? That is what I was expecting. But this book, only six chapters in, and I am super excited for what comes next. So excited I'm pre-ordering.

As a South Asian reader and writer and agent, this book was such a breath of fresh air! I loved the writing, the atmosphere, the world building and the incorporation of real issues into the story. Thank you for this! I've pre-ordered and have already recommended to my friends.

I went all click-happy when I saw the cover for this on NetGalley, not even realizing that it was a preview instead of the full book. Suffice it to say that I'm super-excited and jonesing for an early copy. Here's hoping the full ARC will be available soon! *crossing fingers*

This is seriously one of the most stunning books I've ever read. I love the pacing and all the characters, and the voice is just SO good! I can't wait for the full book!!

I did not even read the full excerpt because I know it will just torment me to not have all of it. But I absolutely adore what I read, I love the cover, and I can't wait to read the whole book.