Three Stars for MASQUERADE

O.O. Sangoyomi’s MASQUERADE, a breathtaking adult fiction novel that follows a young Yorùbá woman as she rises from social pariah to power in this reimagining of pre-colonial West Africa, has received three starred reviews!

“This debut novel is a page-turning blend of historical fiction with a retelling of the story of Hades and Persephone, deftly interweaving West African culture with mythology in a way that keeps a familiar tale feeling fresh and new. An intricately woven tale inspired by West African history.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Sangoyomi’s novel showcases a reimagined pre-colonial West Africa in the 15th century, depicting the power of kings, courts, and family, plus one young woman’s quest to find her own path… Richly detailed worldbuilding and inspiration from the Persephone myth all lend to a layered, immersive storyline in Sangoyomi’s debut.”—Library Journal, starred review

“Sangoyomi’s debut novel, a loose retelling of the myth of Persephone, takes place in fifteenth-century West Africa. It paints a vibrant picture of the people, the colors, and the sights of the era for the reader. And nothing is better imagined than the character Òdòdó, a female blacksmith by trade… Her growth into a leader is the highlight of the novel. Highly recommended for fans of palace intrigue, like N.K. Jemisin’s THE HUNDRED THOUSAND KINGDOMS (2010), or scheming characters in a historical-fiction setting, like Jamila Ahmed’s EVERY RISING SUN (2023).”—Booklist, starred review

 

 

 

 

 

 

MASQUERADE by O.O. Sangoyomi; 9781250904294; 7/2/24.