Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 22/03/2024
Published by: Audible Studios
ISBN: B07VNTGHR5
Cover:
This captivating design uses a stunning brown and gold colour scheme that complements the beautiful illustrations of the main characters. The elaborate text font further elevates the design and conveys the fantasy genre of the story.
Writing:
The rich descriptions, touches of humour and cliffhanger chapter endings made it incredibly easy for me to lose myself in this story. I also loved the smooth world-building and fascinating world, even though some aspects were confusing and underdeveloped.
we live because we die
Storyline:
Hints of mystery and danger as the characters and world were introduced created tension and quickly reeled me in. Sadly, this tension gradually dissipated in the second half of the story as the storyline focused on the internal struggles of the main characters, and the pace dragged. It was mainly the exploration of complex themes, such as patriarchy, rape and grief, that kept me interested, but the rushed climax only made the storyline more underwhelming.
Main character(s):
Smart, fierce, and eager to make a difference, Naala is the opposite of her sweet and timid twin, Sinai. This contrast, along with their complex backstories and different struggles, made their points of view distinct and engaging. However, the basic tropes used for their characterisation (chosen ones, orphans, hidden powers) made them fairly forgettable despite the heartwarming growth they experienced.
You cannot buy life, you cannot hide and wait to live it later; you must live and you must live now
Secondary characters:
Various secondary characters help drive the storyline, and while some were memorable due to their roles, most were one-dimensional. In particular, the villain seemed painfully underdeveloped, as his main contribution was a cliché monologue towards the end and much of his characterisation is told, not shown.
Romance:
The natural, slow-burn connection that unfurls gives some cute moments but makes up very little of the storyline. It also had little impact on the story and could have used more depth to make it substantial.
everyone, even the tiniest otomys, has power. The trouble is we are all too quick to give it away.
Narration & Audio:
Weruche Opia gives an immersive performance that is perfect for this story! I especially loved the vocal effects and character voices skillfully used to bring the story to life.
In summary, ‘Daughters of Nri’ started strong, but the slow pace and cliché characters gradually wore down my interest. This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron is a similar young adult fantasy to check out if you enjoyed this book.
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