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“There is no living thing that doesn’t desire freedom.”

What is the Book about?

Amina al-Sirafi could hardly be more content with herself and her world. After her impressive career as the most notorious pirate of the Indian Ocean, during which she survived treacherous villains, vengeful merchants, multiple husbands, and a real demon, she is now steering towards calmer waters. Away from blood and death. And especially away from the supernatural. But then she receives an offer that no true buccaneer could conscientiously refuse: For a princely reward, Amina is to bring back the kidnapped daughter of a comrade. The prospect of one last adventure with her crew and of more wealth than she could ever dream of persuades her to weigh anchor once more. Yet soon, Amina must question whether this final adventure is worth its price. Especially if that price could be her own soul.

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Rating
Plot ★★☆☆☆
Characters ★★★★☆
Excitement ★★★★☆
Atmosphere ★★★★★
Writing Style ★★★☆☆

Favourite Character
Amina & Dalila

My thoughts while reading it

“The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi” embarks on a journey with the promise of seasoned pirates venturing out for one last grand adventure, only to find themselves navigating through uncharted waters. If you have a penchant for tales where retired buccaneers assemble their crew for audacious escapades, then this book is a must-read. It seamlessly blends elements of heist intrigue, maritime exploits, and epic confrontations, crafting a narrative tapestry that feels both familiar and refreshingly original. So, naturally, I was completely hooked on the idea of a pirate adventure! Let’s hoist the sails and dive into this thrilling escapade.

The Arabian-inspired backdrop is meticulously crafted, with nods to diverse cultures enriching the world-building. Although set in our world’s past, the story incorporates fantastical elements like sea monsters, demons, forbidden artifacts, and djinns, captivating readers with its fantasy aspects. The sense of place in the story is incredibly robust. Chakraborty masterfully shapes her world within the framework of our own, while also expanding into metaphysical realms. Religion plays a significant role in the narrative, not only through the characters but also in the overarching story. Mythology permeates the tale, with faith and spiritual artifacts wielded as formidable weapons. This aspect of the story captivated me endlessly, as I was enthralled by every myth, every sacred weapon, and every legendary creature.

It initially promised to be a classic adventure tale, reminiscent of the thrill I experienced reading “Kings of the Wyld.” However, this initial allure eventually faded, dampening my enthusiasm for the book. The first half was undeniably phenomenal in terms of plot development. The reunion of the band of characters embarking on a quest was immensely enjoyable. It began as a light-hearted, low-stakes adventure, but later attempted to raise the stakes unnecessarily. The narrative didn’t require a formidable villain seeking to conquer the world, and the lack of depth in the antagonist made it hard to empathize with them. Additionally, the introduction of a romantic subplot detracted from the overall enjoyment of the adventure. While the first half of the book seemed flawless, the latter half unfortunately fell short.

Amina, undoubtedly the greatest pirate of all time, now in her forties and a mother, longs for relief from her aching knee. Amina resonated with me primarily because of her portrayal as an exceptional and realistic mother. She strives to provide the best for her daughter, functioning not only as a maternal figure but also as an individual with her own desires and struggles. Amina is a compelling character – bold and irreverent, yet deeply committed to safeguarding her daughter and grappling with the changes in her priorities. She also endeavors to be a better Muslim, albeit with varying degrees of success. Characters like Amina and her eccentric friend Dalila are vibrant and captivating. The novel’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, with each crew member hailing from different ethnic backgrounds and holding diverse beliefs, yet united without conflict or prejudice. I hold great affection for the entire crew. Tinbu, our first mate, is a skilled archer with a penchant for trouble. Dalila, the beloved Mistress of Poisons, may have a penchant for experimentation, but her loyalty and companionship are invaluable. Majed, the talented Father of Maps, guides the crew unwaveringly, while Payasam, the endearingly useless cat, adds a touch of charm. Together, this crew forms the most extraordinary found family.

Motherhood is a prominent theme throughout the story, and I admire how Chakraborty illustrates how women pursuing their dreams and happiness can inspire their children, especially their daughters, to be strong and independent. It was refreshing to witness a middle-aged woman of color embrace her sexual desires and exhibit such audacity. Amina unapologetically embraces her life choices, dismissing anyone who would judge her for them. The characters in the story undergo growth, albeit on their own terms rather than conforming to societal expectations.

In conclusion, “The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi” presents readers with a captivating blend of adventure, fantasy, and intricate character dynamics. From the thrilling escapades of retired pirates to the richly detailed Arabian-inspired setting, the book offers a refreshing take on the classic pirate narrative. While the plot may falter in the latter half, the strength of the characters, particularly Amina and her diverse crew, shines through. Chakraborty skillfully navigates themes of motherhood, identity, and diversity, creating a narrative tapestry that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Despite its flaws, the book remains a compelling read, leaving readers eager for more adventures on the high seas.

Reading Recommendation? ✓
Favourite? ✘