MASQUERADE - O.O. Sangoyomi

Goodreads rating - 4.11/5 
My rating - ⭐⭐⭐/5 

Genre - Fantasy, Historical fiction, Mythology

This is a mesmerizing journey into a reimagined 15th century West Africa, where myth and history intertwine in a tale of power, survival, and self-discovery. The story follows Òdòdó, a blacksmith from Timbuktu who is thrust into a world of wealth and political intrigue after being abducted by the warrior king of Yorùbáland. As she rises from a life of marginalization to a position of influence, Òdòdó must navigate the dangerous dynamics of a court where loyalties are fragile and power is everything.

What makes Òdòdó's journey so compelling is the way Sangoyomi portrays her struggle to reclaim her autonomy in a society that has consistently tried to suppress her. The novel delves into the complexities of power, exploring not just what it means to gain it, but also the sacrifices and risks involved in holding onto it. Òdòdó's transformation from a social outcast to a key player in the king's court is both inspiring and fraught with tension, as she faces enemies on all sides, including the king she’s forced to wed.

Sangoyomi's lyrical prose and rich world-building bring this epic tale to life, making it more than just a story of political intrigue—it’s a story of resilience and the pursuit of freedom against overwhelming odds. "Masquerade" is a powerful exploration of what it takes to survive and thrive in a world where everything can change in an instant, and it leaves a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.