Maiya Ibrahim, Spice Road, Hodder and Stoughton, January 2023, 496 pp., RRP $24.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781399702034
Although a fairly long book, Spice Road is difficult to put down. This action-packed and fast-paced novel full of magic and monsters leaves readers wanting more even after the final page. Maiya Ibrahim’s imagination is wild and original as she introduces unique concepts that makes it hard to compare to any other novel.
At 17-years old Imani is the youngest shield in the desert city of Qalia. She’s a warrior tasked with defending her hidden city from the ghouls, djinn and monsters hiding in the surrounding sands. Qalia also happens to be home to the very special Misra, a secret spice magic that awakens people’s affinities. With a little magic, Imani’s affinity for iron means she can wield a dagger like no other. She becomes a deadly and indispensable weapon. The Djinn Slayer.
Despite her position, Imani lives a sheltered life in Qalia, blindly following the elders and leaders and trusting in the history they tell her. After an incident involving an escaped horse and her rebellious sister, however, it would seem that they haven’t been entirely truthful. Imani is left with a multitude of questions and no answers.
Her brother’s recent betrayal has left her family heartbroken and their reputation damaged. His thievery would have been enough to have him exiled if he hadn’t already vanished. For many months he was presumed dead until Imani stumbles upon something that may prove otherwise. Now she must embark on a dangerous journey with some unfortunate company to find out the truth and recover her brother.
Spice Road is a delightful and engaging mix of fantasy, mystery, love, and adventure. It has just the right amount of intrigue with elements of manipulation and betrayal. This novel is perfect for readers fourteen years and older.
Reviewed by India Boon
