This was my first book by Chakraborty. While I’ve had her Daevabad series on my list to read, I just haven’t made it to them yet. But now I’m moving them up because I adored this pirate story!
Amina Al-Sirafi is coming out of retirement. As one of the most infamous and notorious pirates of the time, she’s spent the last 10 years trying to live a quiet life away from the sea. When a wealthy grandmother tracks her down to find her kidnapped granddaughter, Al-Sirafi is left with little choice than to come out of retirement to locate the girl. But the closer she gets to finding the girl, the secrets she’s been keep are about to surface, putting her family and friends in harms way.
I have zero negative things to say about this book. Everything is amazing. The storylines is complex and incorporates a ton of actual history of the region (which now I want to know more about) while also weaving in myths, legends, and a little bit of magic. While our pirates themselves don’t necessarily use magic, their cunning and wit is flawless. I loved that our main characters are middle aged pirates, and the references to motherhood felt relatable to me. Chakraborty’s acknowledgement of the way society treats women was excellent and every single character in this book has a complex story and unique voice. Amina Al-Sirafi is my new favorite fictional character.
Filled with magic, humor, history, and adventure I adored this story. Based on the ending I’m hoping four additional books but would still be okay with a trilogy! Book 2 doesn’t even have a title though, and I cannot wait to get my hands on a copy!
I primarily listened to this book on audio, and the narration is excellent! If you need a listen for a roadtrip this would be perfect!
The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi is out now. If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my instagram @speakingof.books.
