We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal

 

Title: We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal

Reviewer: Aditi N., Grade 9

Rating: 3 stars (out of 5)

We Hunt the Flame is set in a fantasy world, Arawiya, which is inspired by ancient Arabia. It follows Zafira, a fearless huntress in a patriarchal society, on a quest to retrieve a jewel that will restore magic and put an end to the cursed forest that has caused her people to suffer. She crosses paths with Nasir, an assassin and the crown prince, who has embarked on a journey to steal the jewel and kill her in order to prove himself to his father.

Faizal's lush, eloquent writing furnishes this book with exquisite charm. Although the narrative was slow to develop, it definitely picked up with action-packed twists and turns near the finish. The plot is predictable at times and follows familiar tropes, but the characters and setting are vibrant and well-crafted. I particularly enjoyed the deep connection between Zafira and Yasmine, as well as Nasir and Altair's amusing banter. Overall, this was a memorable novel perfect for Aladdin enthusiasts, with an exciting ending