This is a strong debut inspired by Nigerian mythology and full to the brim with magic and vivid descriptions. The broad strokes of the story are reminiscent of classic tropes—a young hero in a world determined to stomp out magic—but the details are fresh and exciting. The descriptions of food, clothes, and scenery come alive throughout this story, and Dèmi is a great protagonist to follow. I think a lot of young people will enjoy this story.

Thank you NetGalley, Harper Collins, and Ehigbor Okuson for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

For a premiere I absolutely loved this first book. Fantasy is my absolute JAM and I love seeing how authors put their different spins on things. The Nigerian folklore aspect of this story just made it all the more captivating. Demi was such a great main character and following her through her struggles and growth was just beautiful. She kept her faith and fought for her people. Despite all of the obstacles that were in her way. Despite who her father was and what he did to the Oluso people. I would honestly recommend this book to any of my fantasy lovers who are looking for something different then the norm. Yes there's magic but there's also CULTURE and it was so beautiful to imagine it while reading this story. I truly hope there will be a sequel so I can find out how Demi will defeat Lord Ekwensi.

First and foremost. I’m for sure one of those readers that is swayed by the cover of a book. This cover is absolutely stunning and reading the synopsis about it dealing with Nigerian mythology was a double win.

We meet Demi. A young magic user in a land where it makes magic users are second class citizens. People come to them for help when they are needed but spit on them after the work is done. You could for sure draw parallels to real world history and it made my heart ache. No one should be punished for something that they have no control over. Not over something that is part of who they are on a cellular level.
The mythology and magic of this story is just pure magic. I found myself just lost In this world and was eager to learn more.
The romance was for sure a slow burn between Dèmi & Jonas is for sure complex since they come from two different worlds. Add on Jonas betraying Dèmi and for sure, becomes an enemies to lovers romance. One that can go either way with the betrayal being go as huge as it was. Add on top that Dèmi being from the darker skinned, magic wielding Oluso & Jonas from the oppressor, nonmagical Ajes.
I loved following Dèmi on her journey of self discovery, revenge and romance. She is for sure a strong character that had me aching with her throughout this story. Her romance with Jonas as a slow burn that made me curious to see how it would all play out in the end. Overall the story was a rushing River, pulling you along whether you were ready or not. Every bump a shock and every twist left me whiplashed. And the blend of Nigerian mythology for sure had me wanting to learn more about this it’s rich history. This book is a strong debut from Okosun and I can’t wait to see where her writing career takes her.


Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins publishing for a free ARC in exchange for a honest review.

4/5 ⭐️
“They’re willing to pay so dearly for illegal magical help….But after, when it’s time for drinking and dancing, they remind us we will never sit at the same table…”
Wow. This story does a masterful job at telling us the dark and complicated story of colonialism, but through fantasy. The world and magic was so rich here, that I could very easily believe this story was a folktale passed down through the generations.
This story had me on the edge of my seat, I couldn’t put it down. The intensity was high throughout. The magic system was interesting and sort of new. The complex relationship between the natives and the conquerors added so many layers. But I also liked that while the two sides were mostly separated by color, we did see the magical community accept that mates can be any color and gender.
The only thing I didn’t love was the ending of this book. There were moments where it felt like the story forgot it was being narrated by Dèmi and somehow was able to tell us details she definitely wouldn’t have been able to know. Also it was a little confusing and rushed at the end. However, overall, I really enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend reading it. I’ve already started telling my friends to add it to their TBRs.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for providing an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.

3.75/5 stars

+fated mated
+love triangle
+heir reveal

Forged By Blood is the first in a fantasy duology featuring Nigerian mythology and an intriguing magic system.

Dèmi must navigate in a world where magic users like herself are oppressed and some would like to see magic and their culture completely eliminated. She is sent on a mission that could change the outcomes of her people, but the journey is never simple. The story is a commentary on colonialism, racism, colorism, and ultimately revolution.

I’m not a fantasy novice, but I found myself having to stop and read certain parts several times or go back a few pages because of the pacing. The early pacing was great, but by the end, there was so much action and it felt rushed. There were sometimes so many characters in a scene that I was forced to circle back and make sure I understood their role and powers.

While I enjoyed it, I think I’ll feel more satisfied reading the second book in the duology. I didn’t quite believe the love triangle and I think my lack of buy-in of the romance made the ending feel unearned. I really hope the second book sticks the landing because Forged by Blood is a jewel.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for the ARC. Forged by Blood is available on August 8, 2023!

Forged by Blood was such an amazing fantasy novel. I've become a fantasy reader recently with all these amazing black leaders and this one didn't disappoint so glad to add it to my collection,

"Forged by Blood" by Ehigbor Okosun is an outstanding debut novel that showcases her exceptional storytelling abilities. Her exquisite writing weaves elements of magic, mythical creatures, and social issues into an engaging narrative with great finesse and charm.

Demi is a young magic warrior who finds herself dealing with prejudice due to her unique abilities and background. This book delves into themes of grief, loss, prejudice and wonder while providing a fast-paced yet engaging reading experience.

Although this story employs classic tropes such as fated mates and love triangles, it adds its own original spin by injecting new life into these elements. Mythical creatures and folklore add another level of intrigue; creating an immersive and captivating world.

One area which could have been expanded upon is character development and interpersonal relationships, something some readers may have desired more of in this book. Perhaps, however, the second book in the duology will delve deeper into these topics?

"Forged by Blood" is not your average fantasy novel with predictable themes and tropes; instead it presents an in-depth exploration of complex moral questions set within a fast-paced and epic adventure. The author blends elements from Nigerian folklore with original world building to create an immersive fantasy realm that offers plenty of exploration for readers.

Demi, our protagonist, is a captivating protagonist whose actions and experiences lead her to take a stand against injustice. Her journey is explored thoroughly as it delves deep into her thought process for decision making - giving depth and authenticity to her journey.

"Forged by Blood" presents readers with a multidimensional romance, exploration of magic, and nuanced examination of violence that defies simple answers while welcoming ethical dilemmas inherent to its narrative. Additionally, the book encourages readers to consider historical events' lasting consequences as they read along.

Ehigbor Okosun's debut novel "Forged by Blood" is an engaging and captivating read, seamlessly weaving magical elements, societal issues and folklore together into an entertaining narrative. While certain aspects could have been further developed, its overall storytelling, world building and exploration of complex themes make this highly recommended reading for fantasy fans. I eagerly anticipate reading the second installment in this duology to continue this engaging storyline!

Forged by Blood
By Ehigbor Okosun

It was really neat to read a fantasy story based on Nigerian mythology. The world building and magic really pulled me in and, I thought, made up for some of the shortcomings. The culture is vividly displayed and you really get immersed in the world and the complex ways to view magic. Is it a blessing or a curse? And the nuances to it were intriguing. How can you defend yourself when using magic to destroy your enemies will also destroy you?

A couple shortcomings: everyone seemed to need a mysterious backstory or parentage and by the third or fourth reveal, it was starting to get a bit underwhelming. There’s also a bit of a love triangle going on which is not my thing. That being said, I appreciated that it didn’t take over the plot.

I will be picking up the next book when it comes out 😊

Thanks to @netgalley and @harpervoyagerus for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book has it all: strong characterization, solid worldbuilding, and an appropriately paced plot with high stakes. The chapters are named with one word that effectively builds anticipation depending on the current events in the story. Immediately at the beginning, we are introduced to the Demi, our narrator and protagonist. The first few chapters do a wonderful job of teaching us her backstory, how she was shaped into the person she is today, and what her primary motivations are. The way Demi is written causes her to feel "real" and makes it easy to understand the decisions she makes and the people she trusts (or doesn't trust). However, each character is similarly developed and easy to relate to. The stakes, conflict, and magic system in the world are also clearly explained and simple to follow. The story also does a good job examining what it means to be a leader and how power should be used. Although the plot is not necessarily the most innovative and there are aspects of the romance that feel overdone, this book is still a satisfying read that does a good job setting up the sequel. I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys books featuring tragic backstories, strong characters, redemption arcs, and regime-toppling.

I wanted to love this book, but unfortunately it just didn't hit the right note with me. I found the magic fascinating and the world building was very strong, I just wasn't hooked. A shame, and I'm sure others will love it!

Thank you to the publisher for providing a review copy

I enjoyed Forged By Blood very much, and I am looking forward to the second book in the duology. Despite being dropped right into a scene at the beginning of the book, it’s very easy to pick up on what’s happening quickly and get a good background of the world and how things came to be. The story was fast-paced and kept me interested throughout. I couldn’t get enough, and I’m itching for more of this story. I liked all three members of the main trio, and that can be rare for me. I rooted for all of them, and I appreciated the way the boys’ relationship evolved.
The writing of this novel was impressive and did not seem to be that of a debut author. The tension and intrigue in this book gripped me, and I have found that lacking in books with plots that have even higher stakes. The action and description in scenes had this reading like a film to me, and I could see it all perfectly in my head as if I was front row at the movies.
I had the opportunity to read this alongside a friend that also received an advanced copy, and our discussion brought up my one challenge with this story. The ending and the transfer of power did not seem to make sense and align with how I expected given the themes and messages in the book. I am hoping that is directly discussed and addressed to make more sense in the second book.

Many thanks to Netgalley, Avon and Harper Voyager, and Ehigbor Okosun for allowing me to review this book. Slight spoilers ahead!

FORGED BY BLOOD is exactly what its back cover copy says it is. It’s a classic YA tale and the first book in an “action-packed” duology that features a badass female protag; destined lovers inside a love triangle; Nigerian-inspired magic; youth rebelling against established political systems; and even a masquerade ball in its third act, to name a few things. Its characters, setting, style, and thematic resonance were all on point, and I enjoyed being inside Demi’s head while she struggled to decide tearing Jonas, the white-coded prince, to pieces or letting her feelings for her in childhood get to her.

What prevented me from rating is as a perfect 5/5 was its pacing. Granted, there’s nothing wrong with it being action-packed or adventurous, but for a book with a world of this size and scale, where we are introduced to its gods and kings all in one book, some slower beats might have helped space things out. To me, when I read it, it felt like I was in a car ride, and Okosun was taking me along. The beautiful scenery brushed past me, and I wished we had taken our time to enjoy it. I also wished that more inspiration from Nigerian culture was taken instead of just its mythos and food customs. Again, nothing wrong with a YA fantasy with Nigerian-inspired elements. I just like my fiction to go a little harder, you know?

Anyway, a debut fantasy novel is no small feat to write, and I applaud Okosun for the magnificent effort she took at crafting what will no doubt become a classic. I eagerly look forward to the second book in the duology and her future works as a writer partly out of enjoyment as a reader and as further inspiration for me as a writer.

This is a beautiful, epic fantasy following Dèmi as she tries to do what's right in the face of obstacles and oppression. She is plunged into the center of court politics in a land that treats her and people like her as dangerous and unworthy. All of a sudden she is used as a piece in a much larger game. She's not sure who she can trust or if she'll ever be able to make a difference. The story will grab you from page one. Dèmi is the quintessential heroine. She's tough but flawed, full of rage but principled and also kind. She battles herself as much as anyone else. The world, the magic, and the various motivations are complicated and multi-layered, which serves the story incredibly well through the first half, painting a full and wonderful picture of a land and a people in trouble. From there, the overlapping lies and ties crest into overworked and confusing territory during the climax. It felt as though the last third could be a whole other book, and that maybe then it would be easier to take in, less jarring, and more believable. Ultimately, the characters, the world, and the buy-in of the first half are so strong that this book is still an absolute win. The sequel will be an auto-buy.

"Forged by Blood," by Ehigbor Okosun, delivers a tale of courage, resilience, and power. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn nation, the story follows the journey of a young girl Dèmi as she navigates through the chaos and destruction surrounding her.

The themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice intertwine nicely. The writing is beautifully vivid, the descriptions of food made me so hungry, and the cover art is so lovely. However, the storyline takes considerable time jumps too soon paired with the endless world-building making it confusing. I understand Dèmi is young, but she was annoying, and the supporting characters were flat, so I quickly lost interest. It felt very similar to Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi. I would have loved a fresh storyline. I DNF’ed at 50%. I couldn’t take anymore.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for this ARC.

I got to the 45% marked and had to officially call it quits. It was marked as an adult fantasy and it did not match that so as of now I don’t want to read it but I will pick it back up.

I found Forged by Blood to be a great debut novel by Ehgbor Okosun. It is fast paced, the time breaks did through me off a bit but not so much as to detract from the story. Its tagged in adult fiction as well as Ya and it definitely fits YA way better. The story follows Demi who is an outcast she has lost so much and still remains incredibly kind and positive. She is sent on a mission with her friend Colin by a gentleman who wants to come into power in their providence. Of coarse things don't go as planned and it trouble ensues. Overall its a solid book and I will definitely be reading the sequel.

Forged by Blood by Ehigbor Okosun

In many ways, this is a love story. A love story between individuals but also a love story for one’s people and one’s nation. It is also a love story with nature and fantasy and with one’s roots as well. Demi’s people are downtrodden due to their magic. Magic is genetically based and can only be used if the genes are viable. Non-magic users fear and oppress the magic users.
The book starts with Demi meeting Jonas under stressful circumstances. Their relationship is truncated by treachery. Demi and her childhood friend Colin, use their magic to try and gain benefit for a noble who has magic but has achieved success by hiding his roots.
A journey that has plenty of deceit, tragedy, and treachery as well as plenty of action puts Demi and Jonas at a crux of both their relationship with each other and with their races and nation.
I look forward to the sequel and highly recommend the book.

This book was really thought-provoking and I loved the pacing and the story-telling. The main character Dèmi is a strong and kind person who has suffered so much trauma in her short life and yet has so much love to give to others. This book was so sad in parts, and it was hard to understand how she could be so forgiving sometimes. The magic system in this book is so unique and I love the way that people with magic are able to see those who have magic as well. I want to see more of Dèmi's powers come out in the next book.

I am so excited to read the second book in this series when it comes out and I will certainly be buying it to put on my shelf, because I will recommend this book to anyone who enjoys magic and love and overcoming trauma. And also because that cover is gorgeous!

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC of this book.

It was interesting. I don't like the beginning where the main character and the boy they just healed are like "We are friends now, you better run from the guards." There was a lot of over detailed little snippets that, while I can sometimes appreciate it I didn't care for. For example: When Demi is running from guards she is thinking "Oh I used to eat sweet mango candy here" It took me out of the scene.

3.75 stars rounded up.

Forged by Blood had good world building that I enjoyed as it wasn't difficult to follow along with. But after finishing the book the only portions that really stuck out to me were the battle/fight scenes? and because of those portions I would say that this leans more towards NA? I was waiting for something grand to happen that would make me scramble and want to pick up book two and that is where it fell a little flat for me? Also, I feel like we could have benefited from a higher number of main female characters besides Demi.