Pop-Culturalist.com

Mirage is Somaiya Daud’s young adult debut novel from 2018, and the first in a planned duology. It is a dazzling tale of political intrigue, deception, and identity. It blends the elements of science fiction and fantasy to create a world infused with Moroccan culture that is alluring yet menacing. Themes of colonization, oppression, and rebellion are the backbone of this story.

Mirage tells the story of Amani, a simple farm girl from Cadiz who has the misfortune of being the doppelgänger of Princess Maram from the Vathek Empire. She is kidnapped from her home to serve cruel Princess Maram as her decoy. Amani is thrown into a dangerous world where she must keep her wits about her if she is to survive.

Highlights

• The development of Amani and Maram’s friendship is unexpected but fascinating, and my favorite part of the story.
• The fusion of science fiction and fantasy creates a unique world. The characters travel between planets and moons and use advanced technology. Yet, there is a fantasy vibe with court politics and a simmering rebellion.
• Daud maintains a tense, high-stakes feeling throughout the novel. Never letting Amani (and the reader) forget the consequences should she choose to disobey orders.
• Daud creates a rich history of Andala with Moroccan inspired culture, Arabic poetry, and beautiful locations.
• I enjoyed the romance that blossoms between Amani and Maram’s fiancé, Idris. Their forbidden romance is tantalizingly sexy, full of longing and angst.

Lowlights

• The story would have benefitted from Maram’s point of view. She’s a compelling character in her own right, and the small glimpses you get from Amani are not enough to fully understand her character.

Final thoughts: With its atmospheric setting, dangerous political games, and a pair of strong female protagonists, Mirage is spectacular first book in a duology.