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Cover Illustration by David Dean
Published by Nosy Crow
This has been a long awaited debut….plenty of twitter publicity and
anticipation. I was so pleased to have been sent a copy for reviewing. The
cover is incredible and begs to be read.
We meet Chaya as she escapes the palace after stealing the Queens
jewels….making it a very unique and quickly paced first chapter. Thieving
features throughout the story with Chaya at the heart of it. However, it is thieving for survival and protection of her poor community, not for wealth or sport. However, she may have gone too far with this latest theft. When best friend Neelan is imprisoned for the crime, Chaya must risk all for his freedom. From stealing an elephant to a jungle adventure, from waterfalls to fireworks, there is never a dull moment and the story leaps off the page.
Chaya is a bold character and following her path is dangerous, yet she does it uncompromisingly and without a thought for herself. Blinded by a sense of justice in the face of hardship and adversity, she perseveres and pushes until she is heard. Chaya does all she can to protect her best friend Neelan and new friend Nour, even though exile or certain death could be the outcomes.
The characters are well described and their friendship and devotion are admirable. Sri Lanka is an intensely beautiful and inspiring place. As you read, you feel, smell and believe you are lost in the jungles and palaces along with Chaya and friends.
Fast paced, intense and full of courage, friendship and a sense of doing what is right even if it seems wrong. An absolutely stunning debut.
My Shelves Are Full 