Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 08/01/2024 *Starred Review* The war to overthrow the Orïshan monarchy was all but won by Zélie and the maji clans. But when the nation of Baldeírik, led by the power-hungry King Baldyr, lands a surprise attack on Lagos, taking Zélie and numerous maji captive, the qualms that divide Orïsha fall away as they collectively fight for mere survival. Driven to ascend to godlike status, King Baldyr hunts the hearts and magic of Zélie and Mae’e, the soon-to-be hierophant of the hidden, floating kingdom of New Gaia. No longer bound by previous titles, clans, or national identity, Zélie, Inan, Tzain, Amari, the whole of Orïsha and New Gaia unify, leading a fight of persistence for legacy, for country, for the future they’ve so long awaited. Brutal and unrelenting in its battle scenes, Anguish and Anarchy isn’t for the faint of heart, but with a closer look at the story behind every weapon, ritual and type of magic wielded, readers will find there is more than meets the eye when it comes to how and with what tools we choose to fight our battles. Adeyemi takes great care to lovingly explore the depth of the characters’ relationships, tying each back to core memories of past installments, invoking the connection and legacy of people and events past. Above all else, this closing installment forgoes the flashiness of Orïsha’s physical might, instead opting to focus on the long game—perseverance, humility, and collaboration being the key to winning it all. For some, this may mean a less than satisfying end, while others will revel in the gratifying feeling of rest, safety, and a clear path for future-building. Overall, a marvel of a final installment, Anguish and Anarchy begs readers to start again—just to cherish all that Orïsha has accomplished. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.