"Historical fantasy with a magical African inspired twist"
January 2024 Debut of the Month
A rip-roaring opening to a genre busting series that combines West African mythology, Fae fantasy, queer romance, black representation, and historical settings. If that all sounds a bit much for one book to handle, there are indeed times when the reader might agree! But I feel sure that what feels like underdeveloped sections or loose ends will come to fruition in the sequels that the cliff hanger ending will ensure you most definitely want to read.
The setting of Shakespearean London and the Globe Theatre, the presence of historical characters like Shakespeare and Guy Fawkes and the accurate unflinching depiction of racism, sexism, poverty and privilege in that society is very well done. We see it all through the eyes of 16-year-old Joan Sands, who is a relatable teenager, full of confidence and definitely nobody’s victim. I also particularly liked the way A Midsummer Night’s Dream is woven into the plot.
Joan is a gifted crafter of metal who maintains the swords used by the Company and her father is an actor member. The Dream is the play in production and its bizarre story is given a whole new layer of meaning because the Fae walk amongst them in this society. It actually makes the play seem more realistic and plausible. The Fae are great characters too, occasionally helpful , often malevolent and always completely selfish.
The West African Orisha mythology is a brilliant addition to the story and adds great power to Joan’s character and that of her twin brother. The family and romantic relationships are the icing on this complex cake. There really is something for everyone to enjoy in this highly enjoyable debut.
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Swashbuckling, romantic, and full of the sights and sounds of Shakespeare's London, this sweeping YA fantasy trilogy debut is perfect for fans of Holly Black, Leigh Bardugo and J. Elle.
Joan touched her fingers to the blade, felt the metal sing to her. It whispered its secrets . . . Sixteen-year-old Joan Sands is a gifted craftswoman and an exceptional swordsmith. So skilled is her technique that she is one of very few women employed at the Globe Theatre, directing William Shakespeare and his troupe of actors in fierce scenes of combat. Of course, it helps that Joan is blessed with the power to control metal, thanks to Ogun, head deity of all Orishas.
But when a pact between the ancient Yoruba spirits and Fae is broken, only she can save the streets of London from peril. Joan must find a way to defeat them in battle by herself . . . Okay, perhaps her twin brother James, blessed with gifts from Oya, can be of some help! And, despite the simmering tensions of a love triangle between herself, Rose, and Nick, Joan has a community of people to protect and who will protect her in return.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed That Self-Same Metal and determined it is suitable for children aged 13-18 years old
That Self-Same Metal features in the following genres: Debuts of the Month, Recommendations, Fantasy / Magical, Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Children’s, Teenage and Educational, Featured Books for Young Adults, Historical Fiction, Featured Books for 13+ readers
That Self-Same Metal is available in Paperback, Hardback
That Self-Same Metal was written by Brittany N. WIlliams and published by Faber & Faber
That Self-Same Metal has 334 pages
Yes it is part of The Forge & Fracture Saga series
£8.09
