Barnes & Noble The Smoke That Thunders by Erhu Kome

From a debut Nigerian author comes a spectacular young adult fantasy rooted in West African mythology and brimming with adventure. In this mesmerizing tale rooted in Urhobo and West African folklore, sixteen-year-old Naborhi yearns for a life beyond her small, traditional clan in Kokori. However, as her rite of passage approaches and she is betrothed to an arrogant young man, Naborhi feels her dreams slipping away. Then, Naborhi becomes bonded to a mysterious animal and begins having harrowing visions of a kidnapped boy. She crosses paths with Atai, the son of an Oracle from a rival queendom, and discovers that she is being guided by the gods. Together with Naborhi's adventurous cousin, Tamunor, they embark on a journey across the continent to rescue the mysterious boy. Yet, upon finding him and learning his true identity, Naborhi realizes that more than her freedom is at stake; she must halt a war already in motion. With lush, unique worldbuilding and a dynamic cast of characters, ""The Smoke That Thunders"" is a gripping tale of political intrigue, fierce love, and the quest for freedom.