I received this book for free from Library, Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Court of Lions by Somaiya DaudNarrator: Rasha Zamamiri
Length: 9 Hours 46 Minutes
Series: Mirage #2
Published by Flatiron Books on August 4, 2020
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, Fantasy, Epic, Romance, Social Themes, Prejudice & Racism
Pages: 336
Format: Audiobook, eARC
Source: Library, Publisher
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Court of Lions is the long-awaited second and final installment in the “smart, sexy, and devilishly clever†Mirage series by Somaiya Daud (Renée Ahdieh, New York Times bestselling author of The Beautiful)!
On a planet on the brink of revolution, Amani has been forced into isolation. She’s been torn from the boy she loves and has given up contact with her fellow rebels to protect her family. In taking risks for the rebel cause, Amani may have lost Maram’s trust forever. But the princess is more complex than she seems, and now Amani is once more at her capricious nature. One wrong move could see her executed for high treason.
On the eve of Maram’s marriage to Idris comes an unexpected proposal: in exchange for taking her place in the festivities, Maram will keep Amani’s rebel associations a secret. Alone and desperate, Amani is thrust into the center of the court, navigating the dangerous factions on the princess's behalf. But the court is not what she expects. As a risky plan grows in her mind, and with the rebels poised to make their stand, Amani begins to believe her world might have a future. But every choice she makes comes with a cost. Can Amani risk the ones she loves the most for a war she's not sure she can win?
Why Did I Listen To Court Of Lions by Somiya Daud?
At the very beginning of 2019, I listened to Mirage by Somaiya Daud. Of course, I loved it and really gelled with the audiobook version. Upon seeing the sequel and finale to the duology, Court Of Lions, I knew I had to read it. Ultimately, I wanted to go with audio again because that was such a good experience. With some luck, I saw that Court Of Lions came up on Libby via audio and I listened in October 2020 and wow, what an excellent story and listening experience.
What’s The Story Here?
Court Of Lions essentially picks up where Mirage leaves off. Amani has been placed in isolation. Maram has figured out that Amani was connected to the rebels and so has forced her silence by placing her into isolation. Things are looking bleak. As you may remember, Amani is the Princess Maram’s body double. So, people think that Amani is Maram which is for Maram’s protection. When Maram is about to get married to Idris, she makes a request of Amani — that Amani take her place in the festivities. In exchange for this, Maram will keep her mouth shut about Aman’s loyalties. It is a real delicate balance and everything it seems is on edge. Amani just may have a way to help the rebels win.
What Did I Think?
I do not want to get into spoiler territory too much. Just know that I felt like Court Of Lions was the perfect ending to this duology. Both Maram and Amani have really grown as characters and presented so complexly. The plot threads in this book are wrapped up really well. I felt just elated by how it all played out. Also? This duology is seriously underrated and I think if you count yourself a speculative fiction fan, you should absolutely get this audiobook into your ears.
How’s The Narration?
Somaiya Daud’s Court Of Lions is narrated by Rasha Zamamiri who plays it to perfection. This audiobook is 9 hours and 46 minutes long but so thrilling. Zamamiri does imperious quite well in her narration. However, it never feels over the top or over dramatic or over done. This book is narrated in pitch perfect fashion. I cannot highly recommend listening enough – particularly if you need something to take you on a flight of fancy with a good revolution brewing.
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