Raybearer is the opening instalment in an exciting West African-inspired young adult fantasy duology complete with lush scenery and a richly imagined plot. Set against the backdrop of the fictional empire of Aritsar, a group of children are handpicked to be raised in isolation with the future emperor, and groomed to someday rule the empire. Amongst these children is Tarisai, a love-starved black prodigy who is compelled to compete to join the Crown Prince's Council of 11. If picked, she will be bonded to the Council, a promise that is irresistible to her. Raised in solitude by a mother who was barely there to care for her, Tarisai wants nothing more than to belong and to satisfy her longing for a family environment; both of these desires are fulfilled when she becomes one of the 11. She soon realises she has come to love both the prince and the family she has found within the palace walls. However, her mother has other plans for her; she wants Tarisai to betray Crown Prince Deyo and murder him when he least expects but Tarisai is conflicted between wanting to gain the approval of her mother and remaining loyal to the people and place she has come to adore.
This is a mesmerising, vibrant and fresh feeling Afrofantasy novel which is infused with West African tradition and mythologies. I found the prose dazzling and compelling from the get-go and the worldbuilding was some of the most engaging and accomplished I've ever seen; time and effort have been given to craft intricate details of this sprawling world and the descriptions are so vivid and immersive you feel as though you are actually there. It's a complex, multilayered tale of magic, mystery and adventure but it also explores the important topics of imperialism, colonialism, family, mother-daughter relationships, friendship, poverty, love, sacrifice, loyalty, morality, fate, faith, power, individuality and misogyny. The characters are so beautifully wrought that they come alive and effortlessly jump off the page and into your heart; Tarisai is a strong female protagonist whose inner turmoil is illustrated in a sincere fashion; she is fierce in her role and grows in a natural way throughout the novel. I honestly am flabbergasted that this is a debut as it is incredible and I can see it winning awards.
This is a mesmerising, vibrant and fresh feeling Afrofantasy novel which is infused with West African tradition and mythologies. I found the prose dazzling and compelling from the get-go and the worldbuilding was some of the most engaging and accomplished I've ever seen; time and effort have been given to craft intricate details of this sprawling world and the descriptions are so vivid and immersive you feel as though you are actually there. It's a complex, multilayered tale of magic, mystery and adventure but it also explores the important topics of imperialism, colonialism, family, mother-daughter relationships, friendship, poverty, love, sacrifice, loyalty, morality, fate, faith, power, individuality and misogyny. The characters are so beautifully wrought that they come alive and effortlessly jump off the page and into your heart; Tarisai is a strong female protagonist whose inner turmoil is illustrated in a sincere fashion; she is fierce in her role and grows in a natural way throughout the novel. I honestly am flabbergasted that this is a debut as it is incredible and I can see it winning awards.