the Week
Tomi Adeyemi conjures a stunning world of dark magic and danger in her West African-inspired fantasy debut, perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sabaa Tahir.
They killed my mother.
They took our magic.
They tried to bury us.
Now we rise.
ZĂ©lie Adebola remembers when the soil of OrĂÂŻsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves, and ZĂ©lie's Reaper mother summoned forth souls.
But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji were killed, leaving ZĂ©lie without a mother and her people without hope.
Now ZĂ©lie has one chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, ZĂ©lie must outwit and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good.
Danger lurks in OrĂÂŻsha, where snow leoponaires prowl and vengeful spirits wait in the waters. Yet the greatest danger may be ZĂ©lie herself as she struggles to control her powers"•and her growing feelings for an enemy.
"The next big thing in literature and film.""•Ebony
"One of the biggest young adult fiction debut book deals of the year. Aside from a compelling plot and a strong-willed heroine as the protagonist, the book deals with larger themes, like race and power, that are being discussed in real time.""•Teen Vogue
"A remarkable achievement.""•Campus Lately
"Tomi Adeyemi is about to take both the literature and film world by storm.""•Jet