FORGED BY BLOOD Tainted Blood Duology, Book 1

Nneka Okoye's talent for differentiating accents and timbres shines in this Nigerian-inspired fantasy audiobook. The magic-wielding Oluso are ruthlessly ruled by the Aje, who are without magic. Years after her mother's brutal murder, Dèmi, an Oluso, jumps at the opportunity for vengeance. Along with her best friend, Colin, she kidnaps the Eingardian prince, Jonas, an Aje, in the hope that bargaining for his life will save the Oluso people. Dèmi and other Oluso are portrayed with Nigerian accents, and the colonizing Eingardians have English accents. Okoye captures a variety of dramatic situations as she depicts cunning villains, the heartbreaking sorrow of the Oluso, and the blossoming forbidden romance between Dèmi and the prince. A fascinating magical world with high appeal for YA listeners. A.K.R. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2023]