4.25 stars

rep: ownvoices Nigerian-inspired setting and characters; various cultures represented (African, Korean, Indian, etc.); biromantic asexual side character
cw: child abuse (neglect), mentions of parental abuse (physical)

this was a Lot and I really enjoyed it! might write a review soon if I have time but I definitely recommend this because of:

- a protagonist you'll root for: characters that only want to be loved always resonate deeply with me, and that includes Tarasai! her desire for her mother's love is so strong
- wonderful worldbuilding! Ifueko pulls from so many nations to represent different cultures; I also really loved the magical aspects, particularly the mythology behind being a Raybearer
- amazing characters + dynamics: Tarasai is not the only character who craves love and family, and I love them all