Goddess Crown

Praise

The story’s well-timed action and tenacious protagonist make for page-turning thrills, and a lovely romance tucked away within its pages will make readers’ hearts flutter. However, the underlying theme of young women building reliable, strategic alliances in addition to friendships while living in patriarchal kingdoms is equally important. . . Lapite’s debut is a strong addition to the genre and a fine introduction to an enchanting world that is worth exploring. A punchy story radiating zeal and filled with suspense.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

A sheltered teen who longs to find her missing parents must contend with a patriarchal society and dangerous political machinations in Lapite’s thrilling debut. . . . British Nigerian author Lapite delivers an engaging African-inspired fantasy replete with pulse-pounding action sequences, dramatic revelations, and an affecting developing romance spearheaded by a clever, headstrong heroine that readers can’t help but cheer for.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

An exhilarating, plot-driven romantic Afro-fantasy. . . Lapite brings this Afro-fantasy to life through descriptive, lyrical text. . . . Goddess Crown is a majestic, enlivening adventure that should appeal to fans of Tamora Pierce, Lloyd Alexander, and, yes, even Shakespeare.
—Shelf Awareness (starred review)

Teeming with betrayal, secrets, and power struggles, Lapite’s debut will have readers on the edge of their seats. . . . Kalothia’s determined spirit rings true, and her uphill battle will endear her to readers. . . . Readers looking for an inviting fantasy or who want a grounded experience will love Kalothia and root for her through her plight.
—Booklist

Opulence, beauty, and danger—Goddess Crown sweeps readers into a sumptuous new world that they won’t soon forget and introduces an unstoppable heroine in Kalothia. A magnificent and triumphant debut.
—Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times best-selling author and chief operating officer of We Need Diverse Books