Book Review: The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
Book Review: The Gilded Ones Author: Namina Forna Series: Deathless 432 pages, Kindle Edition First published: February 9, 2021 Buy on Bookshop Buy on Amazon Storyline The Gilded Ones is…
The “Deathless” series by Namina Forna is a captivating young adult fantasy series that has garnered significant attention and praise.
The series begins with The Gilded Ones, which introduces us to Deka, a young girl living in a patriarchal society where purity is highly valued. On the day of her blood ceremony, which will determine her fate, Deka’s blood runs gold instead of red, marking her as impure and dangerous. She is given a choice: submit to her fate or join an army of girls like her, who are gifted with extraordinary abilities. Deka chooses to fight and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering secrets about her heritage and the true nature of her world.
The world of the “Deathless” series is richly imagined, blending elements of West African mythology with a unique fantasy setting. The society is deeply patriarchal and oppressive, with strict rules governing the lives of women. The landscape is diverse, featuring everything from lush forests to desolate wastelands, each with its own dangers and mysteries.
Magic in the “Deathless” series is tied to the unique abilities of the girls with golden blood. These abilities vary but often include enhanced strength, speed, and healing. The magic system is deeply intertwined with the mythology of the world, drawing on legends of powerful female warriors and deities. The girls’ powers are both a blessing and a curse, making them targets of fear and reverence.
As of now, the “Deathless” series consists of three books:
The Merciless Ones (2022)
The Eternal Ones (2024)
Each book continues to expand the world and deepen the characters’ journeys, with Deka’s story at the heart of the series. The novels explore themes of identity, resilience, and the fight against oppression, making them both thrilling and thought-provoking reads.