Spice Road by Maiya Ibrahim
Thank you to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the advance copy of this book for an honest review.
Spice Road follows Imani who is a shield in the hidden desert city of Qalia. She has an affinity magic for iron which is awakened by secret spice magic in misra tea. She helps to battle the monsters that lurk beyond the city limits.
Unfortunately her brother has tarnished their family name after stealing the spice and disappearing soon after believed to be dead.
When Imani uncovers evidence that her brother is alive and sharing the magic spice with outsiders she strikes a deal for his return back to Qalia with the council. One issue she has a djinni bound to her sword name Qayn and she is to be accompanied by Taha a power shield who is quite arrogant.
Can Imani complete this mission without being uncovered and bring her brother back safely from beyond the forbidden wastes?
I wasn't sure this book was for me at first but as I got more involved in the plot and learnt more about the characters I became hooked.
While not a massive fan of the romance the book is pushing and the dynamic between Imani and Qayn, I did however love the premise of the magic and the world building.
Maiya Ibrahim did a good job of keeping up the interest in the story with the twists and turns and cliff hangers.
One issue I did have was when characters left the plot and in this book at least we don't find out their fate. Maybe this will be covered in the sequel? Also the introduction of a few characters to aid the plot but then removing them moments later.
However this is only a small gripe that might be further fleshed out in the sequel. Overall I found this a compelling and enjoyable read, great for fantasy lovers. My Fairyloot edition has just arrived and it is stunning!
Looking forward to the sequel!
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