I know dragons are popular right now in the wake of Fourth Wing (and ongoing excitement of its sequels). While that series doesn't appeal to me, I do love dragons and this one sounded like it was more up my alley. And I'm very glad I picked it up!

The Mali Empire has been ruled by cruelty and dark magic for many centuries. Born into slavery and as a woman, Khora hasn't had the easiest life. Throw some (forbidden) magic into the mix and things get a whole lot worse. Khora decides she has had enough and that it's time to rebel against the long standing rulers of her home. I loved seeing her grow as she started to embrace the possibility of freedom and the ability to be unapologetically herself.

While the story of taking on the evil rulers of the empire is definitely not a new one in fantasy, I enjoyed the spin Kambo put on it. The world building was lovely and I loved all the little details that were provided without the book feeling like an info dump. I very much enjoyed the little things that showed an African influence (such as the mention of Tokoloshes!) Although it wasn't exactly a negative experience, there were some points where I felt like the perspective changed a bit frequently - I preferred it when we followed one character for a longer time.

If you want a story about strength and finding oneself in a richly imagined world that has been out to get you from the start then I can definitely recommend that you dive into this rather unique story! Just know that while the ending is a good one, it definitely makes it clear that there will be a sequel.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own. ( )

While I found the overall narrative of the story enjoyable, I encountered difficulties in maintaining coherence during certain segments. The narrative transitions appeared abrupt, leading to occasional confusion as events unfolded swiftly without adequate bridging. Smooth transitions between scenes would enhance the reader's engagement and comprehension, enriching the storytelling experience.

"The Last Flame Rider" by Ainika is a powerful and emotionally charged fantasy novel that delves deep into themes of freedom, resistance, and the cost of fighting against oppression. The story revolves around Khora, a 16-year-old born into slavery within the Mali empire, a realm where magic is not only restricted but its detection spells certain doom for those like her.

Ainika brilliantly captures the essence of a young woman who is tired of being subjugated and having her choices stripped away. Khora's journey from a resigned slave to a fierce fighter in a rebellion against a tyrannical empire is not just a tale of physical struggle but an exploration of inner turmoil and growth. The character of Khora is meticulously crafted, showcasing her evolution from submission to defiance, a transition that is both believable and inspiring.

The narrative is set against the backdrop of a richly imagined world where dark magic and ancient tyranny loom large. Ainika's world-building is commendable, providing a detailed and immersive backdrop for Khora's story. The Mali empire is depicted as a realm rife with injustice and cruelty, setting the stage for an uprising that feels both necessary and daunting.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is the way Ainika handles the theme of rebellion. The rebellion in "The Last Flame Rider" is portrayed realistically, with all the sacrifices, hardships, and moral dilemmas that come with it. Khora's involvement with the rebellion, her willingness to take on centuries-old dark magic and a deeply entrenched empire, is a testament to her strength and determination.

The plot is well-paced, balancing moments of intense action with deeper reflections on freedom, choice, and the price of resistance. The narrative keeps the reader engaged, with twists and turns that add depth to the story and its characters. Ainika's writing style is fluid and evocative, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of Khora and her companions.

In conclusion, "The Last Flame Rider" is a compelling and thought-provoking fantasy novel that goes beyond the typical tropes of the genre. It is a story about fighting for one's freedom, confronting the darkness both within and without, and the resilience of the human spirit. Ainika has crafted a world and a heroine that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy and stories of rebellion and triumph.