Queen of Zazzau

Precolonial West Africa against a backdrop of gods and magic.

“Emuakpor craftily weaves fascinating characters, facts, and folklore together into a riveting adventure steeped in African culture.” —Publisher's Weekly

“A smashing tale of war, love, magic and gods, with seriously strong female characters.” —Ragdoll Reads UK

Amina is heir apparent to the throne of Zazzau and must prove herself worthy of the crown. As foreign invaders close in on them, she is the only thing standing between her people and their destruction. Caught in a web of prophecies and intrigue, she must defend Zazzau, but cannot do so if she wants to prevent the future that was foretold. She did not seek war; it found her. Unwilling to be the plaything of gods or men and determined to take control of her own destiny, she tracks down the god of war himself. But has her destiny already been written? Can she choose her own fate? And can she protect her kingdom, no matter what price she must ultimately pay? Because, gods always want something in return.

Queen of Zazzau chronicles the journey of real-life West African queen, Amina of Zazzau. The Songhai Empire is waning. While the Kanem-Bornu still dominate a vast swath of the African continent, smaller kingdoms are rising to prominence through conquest and expansion. Foreign invasion is imminent and Amina must defend her people. Does she have the power to protect their sovereignty or will she lead her people to their downfall?