Spice Road Book Tour

I’m thrilled to be taking part in the Spice Road Book Tour, hosted by TBR And Beyond Tours! Check out my review below!

Spice Road

By Maiya Ibrahim

YA Epic Fantasy

464 Pages ‎

Delacorte Press

January 24, 2023

The first book in an epic fantasy series set in an Arabian-inspired land with secret spice magic. Raised to protect her nation from the monsters lurking in the sands, sixteen-year-old Imani must fight to find her brother, whose betrayal is now the country’s greatest threat.

In the hidden desert city of Qalia, there is secret spice magic that awakens the affinities of those who drink the misra tea. Sixteen-year-old Imani has the affinity for iron and is able to wield a dagger like no other warrior.

She has garnered the reputation as being the next great Shield for battling djinn, ghouls, and other monsters spreading across the sands. Her reputation has been overshadowed, however, by her brother, who tarnished the family name after it was revealed that he was stealing his nation’s coveted spice—a telltale sign of magical obsession. Soon after that, he disappeared, believed to have died beyond the Forbidden Wastes.

Despite her brother’s betrayal, there isn’t a day that goes by when Imani doesn’t grieve him. But when Imani discovers signs that her brother may be alive and spreading the nation’s magic to outsiders, she makes a deal with the Council that she will find him and bring him back to Qalia, where he will face punishment.

Accompanied by other Shields, including Taha, a powerful beastseer who can control the minds of falcons, she sets out on her mission. Imani will soon find that many secrets lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes—and in her own heart—but will she find her brother?

My Review

I don’t even know where to start. I absolutely loved this book and all the characters. Imani is such an amazing main character – she’s fierce, loyal and just an overall badass. Taha is one of those characters that you love to hate, and hate to love. There are so many more side characters that add to the story in amazing ways. I wasn’t expecting some of the twists and turns that popped up, jaw dropping. The story was fast paced, I couldn’t put it down no matter how hard I tried. The magic system was unique and refreshing. Overall, a new favorite to start the year. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

About The Author

Maiya Ibrahim is the debut author of SPICE ROAD, publishing January 24, 2023 from Delacorte Press and Hodder & Stoughton. She graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Technology Sydney. When she isn’t writing, reading, or spending time with her family, she enjoys video games, gardening, and expanding her collection of rare trading cards. She lives in Sydney, Australia.

She is represented by Peter Knapp of Park & Fine Literary and Media, Claire Wilson of RCW Literary, and Mary Pender-Coplan of United Talent Agency.

Website ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads ~ Pinterest

Huge thanks to TBR And Beyond and Netgalley for my gifted copy. Grab yours at the link below!

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Thank you all for coming by today, have a wonderful day!