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Content snapshot
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Violence
A lot
Significant violence; Deka's world is brutally violent toward women who are different
Language
Some
Some strong language
Sexual Content
Barely any
Brief romantic content
Substance Use
None
No substance use
Emotional Intensity
Some
Themes of female power, religious oppression, and reclaiming your worth
What this book is about
In the West African-inspired empire of Otera, sixteen-year-old Deka bleeds gold instead of red — marking her as an alaki, an impure being destined for death. But an army recruiter offers her a chance to live as a soldier. Forna's YA dark fantasy is fierce, visceral, and rooted in West African mythology.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Significant violence against women
Dark fantasy content
Reader Verification
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