As a history nerd, I really liked the historical relevancy that played out in this book of that particular fear that played out during that time period when it came to christianity and establishing its dominance over all other religions. In this case, it was in the mist of the Spanish Inquisition. We’ve seen this theme played out in many books, people without powers fear those who have it and pose a threat. I also enjoyed the unique take of the powers people had in this book and how it was used. I like how Zoraida escalated and deescalated the power roles from beginning to end, to show that when you have great power or even the upper hand, no matter how good you are or want to be, with the right circumstance, you as well can be corrupted. There are 4 main groups of magic that were introduced in the book Robari have the ability to remove memories from a person and can erase someones mind completely, Persuari have the ability to influence people from moods to physical action, Ventari have the ability to enter peoples minds, see if they are being truthful as well as communicate with each other, and Illusionari have the ability to create illusions either on themselves or the area/people around them. Of course it can go both ways, especially towards the end. Yet, they would find ways to use it to benefit their cause. Even though Ren has this great power, people feared her and other people like her. Even though we are often seen as a lesser beings to some, our creativity and ideas are often taken away and used without acknowledging the original source.

And for me, I find that point of view correlates to how people, especially people of color are seen and used today. With the looming threat of this new weapon and the capture of her groups leader/love-Ren is trying to figure out who she is, more importantly how she fits into a world where people not only fear but despise the very essence of her. One of the great things about this story and the way it was written, in terms of the main character, that we are all going into this journey of self-discovery and truth together. I did a buddy read, which helped keep my motivation up. The desire to read wasn’t there but I managed to pick up the book and venture into a world that was full of intrigue and mystery. Incendiary is the first book I have read since being quarantined. This is the first review I have done in what feels like ages, so bare with me and hopefully my thoughts sound coherent to you all. Hope you all are staying safe and happily reading. As Renata grows more deeply embedded in the politics of the royal court, she uncovers a secret in her past that could change the entire fate of the kingdom–and end the war that has cost her everything. But returning to the palace stirs childhood memories long locked away.

Incendiary by zoraida cordova