June 17, 2024
SFWA Grand Master Hopkinson (Falling in Love with Hominids) serves up a rich stew of folklore and history in this delightfully delirious fairy tale of a magical island resisting reconquest. The enslaved peoples of Chynchin banished the ruling Ymisen two centuries ago—but now the Ymisen are returning in force, ostensibly to discuss trade. Young scholar Veycosi is charged with collecting tales of how Chynchin won its freedom, a legend that involves three witches casting a spell to sink the enemy troops into a tar pit. When the boogeyman of that tar pit, Blackheart Man, appears in town, Veycosi fears a deal he made years before may be the reason for the monster’s resurrection. As a rationalist, Veycosi initially discounts magic, but as a budding folklorist, he learns how and why words create worlds. Hopkinson’s worldbuilding astonishes: the isle of Chynchin features its own patron twin caiman goddesses who watch over a culture that freely mixes words and foods from around the world, even as its own social order clings to vestiges of class and caste distinctions. This is a triumph. Agent: Donald Maass, Donald Maass Literary.
December 1, 2024
In Hopkinson's (Brown Girl in the Ring) first novel in 10 years, protagonist Veycosi is equal parts charming and trouble. His effort to prove himself as a noteworthy scholar during the arrival of the historically hostile Ymisen people sets him on a path that jeopardizes not only his reputation--which is the sole currency on his home island of Chynchin--but also the people he holds most dear. Hopkinson excels at building a compelling and detailed environment without derailing the plot to explain the facets of that world, making for a continually entertaining pace. Readers will relish lush descriptions of food, fresh and intriguing magic, and a culture that feels fully believable. However, the multiple threads of the plot do begin to stretch thin as the novel progresses; some readers may feel this as a lack of focus or of satisfying resolution. That said, Ron Butler's narration is an absolute delight; with his voice, it feels as if the story was meant to be heard rather than read. VERDICT A fresh and original Caribbean-inspired fantasy that succeeds despite a nearly overcrowded plot.--Collin Stephenson
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