Amulet Books/ Abrams
Publication Date: August 18, 2020
Raybearer is the first book in its series and the first book by Jordan Ifueko. Blending a high fantasy with Afrofuturism, Ifueko tells the story of a sixteen-year-old girl named Tarisai. Growing up secluded from the rest of her nation, Tarisai wants nothing more than to have friends and spend time with her mother, The Lady. One day, The Lady sends her to Oluwan city to vie for a position on the prince’s council, earn his trust, and ultimately assassinate him. The longer Tarisai is away from her realm and The Lady, the more she realizes that she doesn’t want to kill the prince; instead, she wants nothing more than to be friends with those she has grown close to. Bound by her mother’s wish, Tarisai must fight to follow her own path and create her own destiny.
In this culturally-diverse novel, Ifueko gives us a strong female protagonist that must fight to pave her own path. Alongside these well-developed characters, Ifueko’s lush and lyrical writing draws readers into Tarisai’s story. This novel is intricately-plotted with plenty of twists and far-reaching elements that are beyond Tarisai’s control. As the story progresses, it keeps you guessing, and makes you wonder if Tarisai will be able to successfully forge her own path or if she will fall victim to her mother’s command. This fresh take on fantasy will inspire readers and leave them anticipating the sequel.
If you like Raybearer, you will enjoy The Cruel Prince by Holly Black and Furyborn by Claire Legrand.
--Danielle C.
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