*O Sinners!* by Nicole Cuffy is a powerful and lyrical exploration of identity, belonging, and the human spirit. Cuffy's prose is both captivating and poignant, drawing readers into a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is beautifully crafted. A must-read for those who appreciate deep, introspective narratives with unforgettable characters.

In "O Sinners," Nicole Cuffy tells three interconnected stories in one book. The first story follows Faruq, a grief-stricken journalist who aims to expose a cult called the Nameless and its leader, Odo.

The second story delves into Odo’s past during the Vietnam War, exploring his friendships, experiences with racism, and personal losses. It also highlights the Nameless group's struggles with a Texas white Christian fundamentalist church.

The third story focuses on Faruq’s background and his current struggles dealing with faith, racism, Islamophobia, and personal losses. Faruq immerses himself in the Nameless group at the Forbidden City, their base in the California redwoods, in an attempt to uncover answers.

The novel effectively juxtaposes Odo and the Nameless group with the US military and white Christian fundamentalism, shedding light on mainstream biases and the impact of race and colonizer mentality. The book is engaging and thought-provoking, presenting these scenarios without imposing any particular viewpoint, leaving readers to ponder on their own backgrounds, biases, communities, and beliefs. It encourages us to see ourselves in others and be open to new perspectives and experiences.

I highly recommend this compelling novel. Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for the ARC.