Marlon James’ writing is wonderfully captivating and expressive in Moon Witch, Spider King, a gutwrenching, unflinching, harrowing novel of political intrigue and machinations, corruption, relationships, magic, memories, and truth. Yet despite the bleakness and grim realities, the book manages to enthral, with brilliant characters and dialogue.

The search for a lost missing boy, though crucial to the survival of the kingdom, continues in an ambitious second part of a planned trilogy, Revolutionary Dark Star. James’ world building is rich and vibrant, steeped in ancient African legends, folklore, mythology, and history. Focusing on Sogolon, an orphan subject to traumatic, rage-inducing personal experiences, brutalised, abused and living on a termite hill she transforms into the moon witch of the title.

We learn of the long history, the constant state of turbulence, the powerful King’s chancellor, the deadly and murderous Aesi, his ability to wipe memories and Sogolon’s battles with him. Where we see women and girls oppressed and treated appallingly, Sogolon is the ultimate female survivor, with her own powers, willing to do whatever it takes. She will fight to right wrongs, seek retribution and bow to no one – not caring if she lives or dies in the misogynistic world of Moon Witch, Spider King.