the Lions' Den was really well-written. I appreciated the character exploration and would read more from Mwanza in the future.

A powerful legal drama about homophobia, government corruption, and justice in 1990s Zambia. I think the marketing copy on this book doesn't serve the story well, as it sets it up more as a mystery/thriller. There's not much of a mystery to uncover here; it's more focused on young lawyer Grace's determination to get closure and some kind of honest answers for the family of her client. It's a heartbreaking story with a lot to say about Zambian history and culture, but don't go in expecting juicy twists and turns!

I found it difficult to really get settled into this book. But once I was in, I was in it. I really enjoyed this piece. I've been trying to get more into legal thrillers!

I really enjoyed this legal thriller! What a unique voice. 1990s Zambia was a particularly good setting for an underdog story, as it felt like a country on the edge of a big change. While I felt like the body of this story moved a little slowly, I absolutely loved the ending section. Grace was a character you couldn't help but root for. She was tenacious, caring and smart. What a great debut!

This debut novel was a fascinating read. A legal thriller set in Zambia during the 90s., Grace is a new lawyer assigned to defend Bessie arrested for an indecent act with another man.

The characters were relatable and I found myself empathizing with them.

Grace is such a dynamic character, with layers and depth Her strength and need to fight for other's rights was admirable. Taking on controversial topics such as gay rights / AIDS in Africa and a corrupt system showed Mwanza's skill in storytelling as Grace persues justice.

I look forward to reading more of this author's work in the future.

Thank you to Netgally,Harlingen Trade Publishing and the author for my gifted copy. My review was voluntary as usual.

An intriguing legal thriller set in 1990s Zambia which meant I learned a great deal (always a plus) while enjoying the story. Grace, a new lawyer sets out to defend Bessy who has been abused by the police after his arrest for his relationship with another man. This touches on class, repression, prejudice and corruption as Grace works her way through the system to not only clear Bessy but also to get justice. She's an interesting and dynamic character. The setting is terrific as are the atmospherics. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. Good storytelling by Mwanza makes for a good read. I'm looking forward to more from her.

What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? Zambia, 1990, Grace Zulu has spent her life fighting to be allowed to live the life she wants. Newly sworn to the bar in Zambia after completing university, and hired on as a first year associate at a prestigious law firm she has achieved her goal. Now she will get to fight for others. And a young queer man who has been arrested and is being held in police custody for committing an “indecent act” needs her. Willing to take on the police, government and the corrupt system they enforce in the pursuit of true justice.
I could not stop reading this book. It’s concise and clear when talking about legal matters, providing enough information without bogging you down. Grace is a character with a lot of depth and layers, and the more you learn about her the more you like her. Watching one person take on a system designed for them to fail in should be frustrating but Mwanza instead gives us a look at the small consistent steps it takes to enact real changes.
Watch for this one June 25 2024
Thank you so much to @graydonhousebooks and @netgalley for letting me review #thelionsden
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I found this piece to be exceptionally well-crafted, and I'm eagerly anticipating the opportunity to delve into more works by this author. Given its potential popularity among our library patrons, we're certainly looking forward to adding it to our collection