A review by ginalucia
The Maid and the Crocodile by Jordan Ifueko

hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 
I’ve missed Jordan Ifueko and her beautiful Raybearer world.

While The Maid and the Crocodile is a stand-alone book, I highly recommend reading the Raybearer duology first. Not because you need to, but because you should - okay?!

There are layers to this book! Our main protagonist talks to us every now and then which is intriguing, and each character is so complicated and in-depth it makes you root for them and despair for them at the same time.

The multi-layered political and societal undertones are woven in beautifully. It deals with ableism and classism particularly well. 

I loved every part of it. The deep and varied characters, the extra dose of world-building in the world I already enjoyed from Raybearer, the relationships and how they build. 

Plus, the added romance is done particularly well with all its dangers and excitement. It doesn’t steer the story or take away from it. It’s like a little sprinkle of something extra.

Wondering if this mythology book is for you? Here’s some at-a-glance info:

* Spice levels: Hinted at, but romance is there. It’s YA-appropriate.
* Fantasy levels: High and constant.
* Rep: Disability rep, queer rep (side characters), and more.
* Trigger warnings: Ableism, classism, emotional and physical abuse.
* The format I read it in: Physical.

For more reviews and book recommendations, check out my YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/ginaluciayt 

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