Book Review: A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark

 

In an early 20th century steampunk Cairo, someone murders a secret brotherhood dedicated to the famous al-Jahiz. Al-Jahiz was responsible for opening a portal between worlds through which the djinn entered. Now the djinn are an accepted part of the world , many working and living among humans. 

When the murders are reported, Agent Fatma of the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities is summoned to the scene. Fingers point to someone calling himself al-Jahiz as the murderer. Fatma is suspicious and doubts that he is who he says he is. She, her girlfriend Siti, and Agent Hadia investigate. Soon this al-Jahiz has the city in an uproar.

The world-building is detailed painting a vivid picture of pre-WWI, supernatural, steampunk Cairo. Places are well described as are the people. Class differences and religious differences are mentioned. 

My favorite characters are Fatma, Siti, and Hadia. They are all strong, forward looking women. Other supporting characters are also interesting such as Ahmed who is a worshipper of Sobek, one of the old gods. The djinn librarian also has a lot of  personality.

Plotwise, the book is well done with a few slow parts. There was plot and subplots. I wasn't sure the angels needed to be a part of the story, but I suspect they were included for characterization and may play a bigger role in a future book in the same world. I figured out the answer to the mystery just before the big reveal. But, I wasn't expecting the scope of the struggle that followed.

Overall, A Master of Djinn is a well-written book. It has a unique setting and interesting characters. I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars. It looks like the first in a series, but can be read as a standalone. It has me looking forward  to more adventures of Fatma, Siti, and Hadia.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book though NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.