Starred review from November 1, 2023
Two headstrong characters must trust themselves and their community as they fight to change their destinies in this trilogy closer. Koffi awakens after her grueling battle with Fedu, the god of death, who remains a threat as the Bonding swiftly approaches. Not only disoriented and wary, she now also bears the marks of the powerful splendor she carries within her body. As Koffi is reunited with her friends, Fedu sends his Untethered--undead souls who aren't allowed to cross over--to wreak havoc on their encampment, forcing them to flee without a plan in place. Knowing that Fedu won't rest until he recaptures her, Koffi seeks help from Badwa, one of Eshōza's six ancient gods, who sends her on a pilgrimage to recruit the other gods for the final battle. Ekon, recently reunited with his presumed-dead mother, is haunted by his past and trying to outrun a prophecy, both of which affect his chronic anxiety. Infighting, dangerous creatures, and a love triangle plague our protagonists along their journey; however, only together can they hope to end Fedu's murderous plot. Their fragile plans begin to unravel as Ekon's past catches up with him. Gray continues to dive into complicated relationships and explore what it means to break free from societal pressures. Readers will stay engaged through the vivid descriptions and action-packed battles in this African-inspired fantasy. Secondary characters are just as vital as the leads, something made evident in their development throughout. A thrilling end to a lively saga. (Fantasy. 12-18)
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January 1, 2024
Grades 9-12 Gray brings it all home in this stunning conclusion to the Beasts of Prey series. Koffi and Ekon once again find themselves up against a powerful enemy, and they'll need all the help they can get to save their land. Trekking across unknown regions, the two are joined by unexpected friends as they race against time to stop the god of death, Fedu, from recreating the world in his own image. Gray's debut series has been such a delight to get lost in because of her dedication to world building and the care she has taken in sculpting her characters and their motivations, and this concluding volume offers a fitting ending to their stories. With a healthy mix of engaging characters, multiple perspectives, and all-knowing gods, Beasts of War never stalls, leaving readers with an epic fantasy that they'll want to devour in one sitting. Satisfying, unique, and empathetic, this culmination of an impressive series is sure to satisfy fans.
COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.