4.5 stars for A+ world-building in a stunning West Africa-inspired setting with intriguing magic systems; a female lead with intelligence and strength and brokenness and compassion; a plot that meanders just enough to give you time to absorb the atmosphere but continually raises the stakes as it takes you into territory you didn't anticipate; and an ending that is satisfying on its own but also leaves you with high hopes for the conclusion of this duology. All by a debut author!