4.5 stars.

“Uniformity is not unity. Silence is not peace.”

representation: own voices West African inspired world and characters, implied asexual side character.

[trigger warnings are listed at the bottom of this review and may contain spoilers]

★★★★

This was great! the magic system was suuuuper interesting and i really liked how the MC and the crown prince that she was sent to kill didn't end up as lovers, but they had the most pure friendship uwu. i definitely thought this was a standalone for some reason?? so my expectations were a little off, but i enjoyed it overall!

trigger warnings: rape, abusive father, fire, stabbing, mild fantasy violence.

**3.5/5**
Solid debut. Great for those that love world building fantasy.

Soul-stirring. Easily one of the best books I have ever read. Science fiction meets magical realism. This fictional tale weaves together an African cosmology that knits together the past with the future. The Raybearer shines a light on one girl’s journey from seclusion and obscurity to the halls of power in the empire. Her life becomes inescapably linked to the Crown Prince and his Council. In this world, she learns her history and finds her purpose for living. Along the way, she discovers the failings of her own character as well as the will to rise above. She, like all other living creatures, must face the evil within and without, as well as learn how to be a bearer of the light. Philosophy, theology, cosmology are woven into this fantasy, and the resulting tapestry is awe-inspiring.

This is a series that fantasy lovers should definitely pick up. An emotionally powerful coming-of-age as Tarisai must overcome many personal challenges as she competes to become a member of the royal Council of Eleven. It has “Blood and Bone” feels while also being a less violent “Hunger Games”. I can’t wait for Tarisai’s next story. A (100%/Outstanding)

I really enjoyed this book. It felt so fresh and the concept, the world and the relationships between the characters had me really invested.

Another entry into my favorite books - fantastic

Raybearer tells the story of Tarisai-from her lonely childhood, to her distant mother’s strange command of killing another child she does not know, to traveling to the capital city of Oluwan, to building friendships, and finally finding a family of her own. Then-tragedy strikes. Mystery. Who is Tarisai of Swana? Who will she become?

This book has it all-a beautiful constructed mythical realm, magic, royalty, love. But it also has suspense, murder, betrayal, heartache and mystery. Who is the Lady? Why does she command Tarisai? Why are only the Songland children born as redemptors? You grow to love the characters, want the best for them, fear for their safety, cry for their heartbreak and pain. Ugh I just loved it SO much and immediately downloaded and started listening to the sequel, Redemptor.

There are important, relevant, and painful parallels to the real word. Currents of civil unrest, the erasure of stories, beliefs, and customs by the dominant culture, forced assimilation, the silencing of girls&women, and our stories. Our importance. Our places in history. All these things beautifully woven through the trials of this young character, Tarisai. Not only is this a compelling fantasy, it’s a story of love, rebellion, feminism, and strength.

I also loved how Jordan incorporates her Nigerian heritage into this fantastical place. I’m a sucker for mythology and magic and stories, and Jordan delivers it all and more.

I **highly** recommend this book to any fantasy lovers out there. You will not be disappointed.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Absolutely brilliant!!

That was an interesting ride