SERPENT SEA

In this sequel to Spice Road (2023), Imani and Taha face impossible circumstances as they try to save their home and loved ones.

The novel begins soon after the events of the first entry, with Imani and her crew narrowly escaping imprisonment by King Glaedric’s Harrowlanders after rescuing her brother, Atheer. The king now knows about the misra tree growing in Qalia—the source of magic Spice—and he poses an imminent threat of invasion. The only hope for saving the city is to help Qayn (the djinni who’s soulbound to Imani), find his jeweled crown, and restore his power. Imani’s and Taha’s journeys crisscross, putting them separately through heartbreaking losses and emotionally difficult experiences, only for them to be thrust together again. Despite mistrust and mistakes, they must rely on each other if they are to save Qalia. As their complicated feelings are put to the test, they face the possibility of death while struggling internally. Ibrahim’s strength lies in her ability to create a fully fleshed-out world and contemplatively examine the complexities of relationships, blurring the lines between enemy and friend. The narrative unfolds in alternating voices that seamlessly weave together the leads’ stories. Surprising pivots contribute to this engaging read, set in a world that draws inspiration from Arab and medieval Western cultural elements. The unique and compelling setting will capture a broad range of readers.

A middle volume that builds on its predecessor’s successes, delivering a captivating and emotionally resonant adventure.