Starred review from September 25, 2023
A sheltered teen who longs to find her missing parents must contend with a patriarchal society and dangerous political machinations in Lapite’s thrilling debut. Kalothia, who is almost 16, has grown up isolated in the kingdom of Galla’s Faledi forest with her caretakers, Aunty and Teacher, and a rotation of royal guards. Her parents’ whereabouts are a mystery; when she was a baby, they were ousted from King Osura’s court for supporting the purportedly treasonous queen, and forced to flee the kingdom. They delivered Kalothia to Aunty and Teacher, and haven’t been heard from since. After assassins destroy her home on her 16th birthday, Kalothia must depart with only her vervet monkey, Yeye, and the head of her personal security, Nahir, intending to leave the kingdom. When Kalothia makes a life-changing discovery, she determines to infiltrate the Gallan court seeking justice for her family—and find out who is trying to get rid of her. British Nigerian author Lapite delivers an engaging African-inspired fantasy replete with pulse-pounding action sequences, dramatic revelations, and an affecting developing romance spearheaded by a clever, headstrong heroine that readers can’t help but cheer for. Characters read as Black. Ages 13–17.