The City of Brass by S. A. Chakraborty

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Warring tribes of djinn, magic reminiscent of ancient Arabian folklore, and brutal court politics lay the groundwork for a breathtaking debut from Chakraborty. There is a complex and grim history among the opposing six djinn factions, and the story unfolds as two powerful historical figures seem to come back to life. Into this upheaval, Nahri, the con artist from Cairo with hidden powers she herself does not understand, is thrown in with Darayavahoush, the most powerful and infamous djinn everyone has heard of except Nahri. Together, they face the ruthless djinn king and the savage political scheming that comes with court life. Surrounding the power struggle is long-forgotten sorcery and frightening mythical creatures, and ever so slowly, the realization that past prejudices have no place in the blossoming bond of an unlikely friendship. This beautifully woven tale of enchantment, social injustice, and renewed purpose and redemption will enchant readers new and old to Middle Eastern mythology.