The Gilded Ones

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna has a lot to offer with its strong feminist themes and a unique world where blood determines fate. I loved the concept of the blood ritual as a symbol of power and the critique of a patriarchal society. However, I felt the world-building was a bit lacking—it often felt like it was almost there, but not fully developed. Multiple POVs could have helped deepen the relationships between characters, especially between Deka and her fellow warriors, as their bonds felt a bit rushed and lacked depth. That said, it’s still an intriguing read with plenty of action, myth, and empowerment.