Forged by Blood – Ehigbor Okosun (2024)

The first book in an action-packed, poignant duology inspired by Nigerian mythology, Forged by Blood follows Demi, who just wants to survive: to avoid the suspicion of the nonmagical Ajes occupying her ancestral homeland of Ife, escape the king’s brutal genocide of her people—the darker-skinned, magic-wielding Oluso—and live peacefully with her secretive mother while learning to control the terrifying blood magic that is her birthright. But when Demi’s misplaced trust costs her mother’s life, survival gives way to vengeance. She bides her time until the devious Lord Ekwensi offers the perfect opportunity: kidnap the Aje prince, Jonas, and bargain with his life to save the remaining Oluso. With the help of her reckless childhood friend Colin, Demi succeeds, only to discover that she and Jonas share more than deadly secrets. Every moment draws them deeper into a forbidden, unmistakable attraction, much to Colin’s—and Demi’s—distress. The kidnapping becomes a joint mission to return to the king, help place Lord Ekwensi on the council, and strengthen the voice of the Oluso in a system designed to silence them. But the way is dangerous, Demi’s magic is growing yet uncertain, and it is unclear whether she can trust either of the two men at her side. A tale of rebellion and redemption, race and class, love and betrayal, Forged by Blood is epic fantasy at its finest.