Play Book Tag discussion

I read the novella,A Dead Djinn in Cairo, last year and have been hoping to read the full length novel about the same characters this year.

A Master of Djinn is set in 1912 Cairo. Decades ago, a mysterious man known as al-Jahiz blew a hole open between our world and the magical one. Across the globe, mythical and magical beings appeared. In Egypt, the djinn integrated peacefully into society, bringing art and architecture, as well as military power in driving out Western colonizers. In Egypt, magic has not only been allowed, but embraced.

This is a solid murder mystery featuring Agent Fatima el- Sha’awari, who works for the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities. Fatima is investigating a grisly murder said to be committed by a man claiming to be a reincarnatec Al-Jahiz. The corpses have been burned, but their clothes were untouched. It is as if they were scorched from the inside out.

Fatima is a fascinating woman who is in a relationship with Siti, a devotee of the old Egyptian gods. She has also been assigned a new partner, a woman named Hadia Abdel Hafez. Fatima is having a hard time adjusting to this new work relationship. However, one of the highlights of this novel is that it’s led by three strong women. Fatma, Hadia, and Siti are all intelligent, thoughtful, resiliant, and clever. Of course, they’re not perfect. Fatma can be stubborn, but over the course of the book there is character growth and relationship development.

This is a beautifully created world that incorporates mystery and steampunk urban fantasy with thematic issues of colonialism, spirituality, gender and class. I enjoyed seeing how djinn have integrated with people in Egypt, helping create one of the most powerful nations in the world, while Europe and Britain struggle with technological obsolescence and the loss of their colonies.

Master of Djinn is technically the third book in a series. But as the first full-length novel, it can be read as a standalone. I just loved the blend of folklore and history set in a vibrant and original world. It is also an action-packed mystery, with some interesting social and political elements.

If you've been searching for an exciting, magical, and mysterious book full of intrigue and fun, in a fresh, original setting, featuring a likeable and diverse cast of characters, you can't go wrong with A Master of Djinn.

Great review!! I bought this las year after reading some of author's other work. I really should read this one soon! It is very motivating that you enjoyed so much!

Isn't this world just WONDERFUL! So pleased you enjoyed. Have you read the novella The Haunting of Tram Car 015? That was my introduction.