Naleighna Kai's Literary Cafe Magazine NK Literary Cafe 2018 Mother's Day Issue | Page 26
Review by Naleighna Kai
Review
L. Penelope writes with the soul of Octavia
Butler, the heart of Tananarive Due, and the
mind of Cerece Rennie Murphy. Combined,
this skillfully crafted science fiction debut
novel has all the elements that a seasoned
reader comes to expect from a classic. A
Song of Blood and Stone’s world-building
and societal dynamics mirror today’s issues
so well, that it is a not-so-subtle reach at
showing how dark and deep life experiences
will become if some harsh realities aren’t
analyzed and resolved.
At times ac tion-packed and others,
introspective, the current story of a woman
riding the line of two cultures, a caste
system, and the past that has driven a wedge
between people who have existed since time
began in such a way that no one can seem
to bridge the gap. This is a perfect first effort
from L. Penelope and she ends the story with
grace while still setting the stage for more,
without leaving the reader feeling lost. That,
in itself, is an awesome feat.
26 | NKLC Magazine