Author: S.A. Chakraborty
Narrator: Amin El Gamal, Lameece Issaq
Playback: 16 hrs 59m
Publisher: Harper Collins
Genre: Magical Realism, Pirates, Historical
First published February 28, 2023
Book description: Shannon Chakraborty, the bestselling author of The City of Brass, launches a new trilogy of magic and mayhem with this tale of pirates and sorcerers, forbidden artefacts and ancient mysteries, and one woman's quest to seize a final chance at glory.
Review:
Chakraborty has a strong talent for creating magical worlds and historic atmospheres. This particular book had everything I needed to feel like I was living a stolen life on the open seas with the salty wind in my hair and a map in my hand. I was completely transported into another time and place, full of magic, and found family at sea; it was an incredible escape from reality.
The plot was incredible, well told, and constructed; it's told as a story and you get a few snippets of Amina while she discusses with unheard collaborators about what to include or scratch off the story on the retelling. That gives it a very interesting touch.
I especially love the MC Amina al-Sirafi, its not often we have MC who is battle worn, having a woman instead of a young maiden is a breath of fresh air. It starts on a stage where most stories have been told already and deemed complete, so again it's a nice spot to start off at. Amina has led an adventurous life, sailing the high seas as one of the most notorious pirates in the Indian Ocean. Her travels have taken her to many places, and she has encountered both love and loss along the way. Amina has faced many challenges and battles, using her wit to overcome them. She has been married several times and is now after retiring from her life of piracy she's a proud mother to a lovely daughter named Marjana.
She is happy in most ways but there is a small nudge in her mind of restlessness. But she's determined to make the best of her ability to ensure her daughter grows up in a comfortable life. Amina felt a sense of hesitation when a wealthy woman approached her with a quest. While the idea of adventure did spark some excitement within her, she couldn't ignore the potential danger that came with it. Besides, she didn't want to leave her daughter behind.
The old woman is very convincing and lures Amina into accepting her quest by connecting in her love for her daughter, after all she's looking to rescue her only grandaughter who has been kidnapped by a heretic- enemy of their people. And so the adventure starts.
Amina is ready to conquer the world! She has gathered together a team of her old colleagues, each one with a unique set of skills that will be invaluable to their mission. With their transportation and team in place, they are ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way. Their goal is clear, and they are determined to succeed no matter what obstacles they may encounter. With Amina's leadership and her team's expertise, they are sure to achieve great things!
I had such an amazing time on this adventure! The crew was fantastic and their witty banter kept me entertained throughout. As the story progressed, I was completely drawn in by the high stakes and the introduction of magical elements only added to the enchantment. Overall, it was a truly engrossing experience that I won't soon forget.
This was used for challenges:
#AYearAThon: Pride month- we see good representations
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