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Goldenborn
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Expected 2 Jun 26Win a free print copy of this book!
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5 copies available
U.S. only
A girl with a mission. A god with a deal. A story that could change everything.
When 17-year-old Akoma Addo stumbles into a world of ancient gods and modern magic, she’ll have to choose between saving her father… or staying true to everything she’s ever believed.
Akoma Addo has one rule: don’t get too close to the supernatural.
Ever since a blazing orb of light left her father in a coma, she’s buried herself in her secret job investigating magical crimes in San Francisco’s AfricaTown -- just enough to keep her grief at bay. But when a body turns up in a pool of molten gold and ash, Akoma’s pulled into something much bigger -- and far more dangerous. At the center of it all is Anansi, the trickster god of stories, who makes her an impossible offer: help him catch a killer and awaken the ancestral magic buried deep in her blood... and in return, he’ll give her a chance to bring her father back. To take the deal, Akoma will have to lie to everyone she loves and embrace the very power she’s spent years trying to deny. And as her connection grows with Xander, the new guy in town with secrets of his own, Akoma must decide who she can trust -- especially when she’s no longer sure she can even trust herself. Rooted in Ghanaian mythology and packed with mystery, danger, and slow-burning romance, Goldenborn is a gripping fantasy about legacy, lies, and what it really means to rewrite your story.
When 17-year-old Akoma Addo stumbles into a world of ancient gods and modern magic, she’ll have to choose between saving her father… or staying true to everything she’s ever believed.
Akoma Addo has one rule: don’t get too close to the supernatural.
Ever since a blazing orb of light left her father in a coma, she’s buried herself in her secret job investigating magical crimes in San Francisco’s AfricaTown -- just enough to keep her grief at bay. But when a body turns up in a pool of molten gold and ash, Akoma’s pulled into something much bigger -- and far more dangerous. At the center of it all is Anansi, the trickster god of stories, who makes her an impossible offer: help him catch a killer and awaken the ancestral magic buried deep in her blood... and in return, he’ll give her a chance to bring her father back. To take the deal, Akoma will have to lie to everyone she loves and embrace the very power she’s spent years trying to deny. And as her connection grows with Xander, the new guy in town with secrets of his own, Akoma must decide who she can trust -- especially when she’s no longer sure she can even trust herself. Rooted in Ghanaian mythology and packed with mystery, danger, and slow-burning romance, Goldenborn is a gripping fantasy about legacy, lies, and what it really means to rewrite your story.
416 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication June 2, 2026
2 people are currently reading
2741 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book made me want to scream. Scream with joy. Scream, because this is exactly what lovers of diverse books have been begging for. And mostly to go back in time and give my younger teen self this book and scream at her that she has to read it!
Goldenborn is proof that we can have YA stories, which stand out in their difference, even as they make us fall in love with characters and plots the same way we always have. It is a great book and an incredible debut.
It is also… an Anansi story! Yes Anansi! The trickster god that we of the African diaspora have been hearing stories about our entire lives. Ama Ofosua Lieb took the stories we knew and created a world based in San Francisco I would love to move to right now!
Ahem, okay, so the lore of the book is rooted in Ghanaian folklore and traditional stories. The world created though, explores so much more. For example, food, music, storytelling, and, oh my word, the clothing described had me itching to go shopping. Readers get a wholesome insider’s perspective of this community. It feels rich. I was entranced!
You get that feel from page one, chapter one, and it keeps taking you in deeper and deeper into this beautiful culture and folklore.
That is just the foundation. The core of the story is a mystery being solved by our almost 18-year-old FMC, who has a grudge, rightfully so, against magic. Which makes reading about her dealing with the contrasting world around her so much fun. She is mindful, devoted, and uses her brain, which I love, and still reckons with her emotions when called for. Her found family is the coolest, and her actual family… I cannot say! You have to read and find out, but expect exciting things!
The entire book happens over a short period, so it is fairly fast-paced. You do not get overwhelmed or lost though; the writing is well done with quite a few places where highlighting is inevitable.
We have a bit of romance, the giggly kind, but it is low spice. Still fun though!
For me, this was a collection of my favorite things. A refreshing take on old traditional stories that are usually ignored, a new family to get to know, and a mix of technology and magic that allows for infinite possibilities.
I would classify this as paranormal urban fantasy, as there is a pantheon of (new to many people, I am sure) gods, as well as shape-shifters, vampires, and magic wielders of various sorts. Most importantly though, I would label this as a must-read YA for your 2026 TBR.
Get it! It is absolutely worth it. I’m so happy that writers are taking us into new worlds and showing us such a good time.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Scholastic Press for this arc in return for my honest review!
Goldenborn is proof that we can have YA stories, which stand out in their difference, even as they make us fall in love with characters and plots the same way we always have. It is a great book and an incredible debut.
It is also… an Anansi story! Yes Anansi! The trickster god that we of the African diaspora have been hearing stories about our entire lives. Ama Ofosua Lieb took the stories we knew and created a world based in San Francisco I would love to move to right now!
Ahem, okay, so the lore of the book is rooted in Ghanaian folklore and traditional stories. The world created though, explores so much more. For example, food, music, storytelling, and, oh my word, the clothing described had me itching to go shopping. Readers get a wholesome insider’s perspective of this community. It feels rich. I was entranced!
You get that feel from page one, chapter one, and it keeps taking you in deeper and deeper into this beautiful culture and folklore.
That is just the foundation. The core of the story is a mystery being solved by our almost 18-year-old FMC, who has a grudge, rightfully so, against magic. Which makes reading about her dealing with the contrasting world around her so much fun. She is mindful, devoted, and uses her brain, which I love, and still reckons with her emotions when called for. Her found family is the coolest, and her actual family… I cannot say! You have to read and find out, but expect exciting things!
The entire book happens over a short period, so it is fairly fast-paced. You do not get overwhelmed or lost though; the writing is well done with quite a few places where highlighting is inevitable.
We have a bit of romance, the giggly kind, but it is low spice. Still fun though!
For me, this was a collection of my favorite things. A refreshing take on old traditional stories that are usually ignored, a new family to get to know, and a mix of technology and magic that allows for infinite possibilities.
I would classify this as paranormal urban fantasy, as there is a pantheon of (new to many people, I am sure) gods, as well as shape-shifters, vampires, and magic wielders of various sorts. Most importantly though, I would label this as a must-read YA for your 2026 TBR.
Get it! It is absolutely worth it. I’m so happy that writers are taking us into new worlds and showing us such a good time.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Scholastic Press for this arc in return for my honest review!
Want to read
September 6, 2025"... a teen girl must navigate a hidden realm of Ghanaian gods and supernatural crimes in San Francisco's AfricaTown to save her father and uncover her true power"
this sounds amazing!
this sounds amazing!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Scholastic Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Ama Ofosua Lieb’s “Goldenborn” is a vibrant and imaginative YA urban fantasy that explores Ghanaian folklore and a compelling mystery as Lieb creates a story rich with culture, emotion, and magic. As a debut novel, it stands out for its fresh perspective, immersive setting, and engaging exploration of identity and storytelling.
Set in a near-future San Francisco, specifically the culturally rich district of AfricaTown, the story introduces you to a world where Ghanaian gods, magic, and modern life coexist seamlessly. Drawing heavily from Ghanaian folklore, particularly stories of the trickster god Anansi, the book offers a refreshing take on mythology rarely centered in mainstream YA fantasy. The setting feels vivid and lived-in, brought to life through descriptions of food, music, clothing, and community traditions that provide a strong sense of cultural authenticity and depth.
At the heart of the story is Akoma, an almost eighteen-year-old protagonist still grieving her father’s death and harboring a complicated relationship with magic. Despite her distrust of the supernatural, she becomes entangled in a dangerous investigation involving magical crimes and ultimately makes a risky deal with Anansi himself. Her journey is both external and internal as she is trying to solve a mystery while confronting grief, navigating family expectations, and learning to take control of her own story rather than being shaped by others.
Akoma is a thoughtful and emotionally grounded protagonist whose struggles feel genuine and relatable. Her character development is one of the book’s strongest elements, particularly as she grapples with her own personal agency. The story also emphasizes family and found family relationships, adding emotional weight and warmth to the story, which I particularly enjoyed.
The book’s pacing is brisk, with the events unfolding over a relatively short period, keeping the tension high without becoming overwhelming. Lieb’s writing is accessible and engaging, especially with the worldbuilding. A subtle romantic subplot adds charm without overshadowing the central plot.
Another standout feature is the worldbuilding itself. The integration of traditional folklore with modern technology creates a dynamic setting filled with gods, shapeshifters, vampires, and magic users. The story explores larger philosophical questions about storytelling, identity, and the power of narrative, like who controls it, and how it shapes our lives, which gives the story depth beyond its fantasy framework. I absolutely loved the worldbuilding, and I would love to continue exploring the world that Lieb created.
Overall, “Goldenborn” is an exciting and culturally rich YA fantasy that offers both thrilling adventure and meaningful themes. Its celebration of Ghanaian mythology, strong character development, and imaginative world make it a refreshing addition to the genre. For those seeking diverse storytelling, emotionally resonant characters, and inventive worldbuilding, “Goldenborn” is a standout debut that promises great things from Ama Ofosua Lieb.
Ama Ofosua Lieb’s “Goldenborn” is a vibrant and imaginative YA urban fantasy that explores Ghanaian folklore and a compelling mystery as Lieb creates a story rich with culture, emotion, and magic. As a debut novel, it stands out for its fresh perspective, immersive setting, and engaging exploration of identity and storytelling.
Set in a near-future San Francisco, specifically the culturally rich district of AfricaTown, the story introduces you to a world where Ghanaian gods, magic, and modern life coexist seamlessly. Drawing heavily from Ghanaian folklore, particularly stories of the trickster god Anansi, the book offers a refreshing take on mythology rarely centered in mainstream YA fantasy. The setting feels vivid and lived-in, brought to life through descriptions of food, music, clothing, and community traditions that provide a strong sense of cultural authenticity and depth.
At the heart of the story is Akoma, an almost eighteen-year-old protagonist still grieving her father’s death and harboring a complicated relationship with magic. Despite her distrust of the supernatural, she becomes entangled in a dangerous investigation involving magical crimes and ultimately makes a risky deal with Anansi himself. Her journey is both external and internal as she is trying to solve a mystery while confronting grief, navigating family expectations, and learning to take control of her own story rather than being shaped by others.
Akoma is a thoughtful and emotionally grounded protagonist whose struggles feel genuine and relatable. Her character development is one of the book’s strongest elements, particularly as she grapples with her own personal agency. The story also emphasizes family and found family relationships, adding emotional weight and warmth to the story, which I particularly enjoyed.
The book’s pacing is brisk, with the events unfolding over a relatively short period, keeping the tension high without becoming overwhelming. Lieb’s writing is accessible and engaging, especially with the worldbuilding. A subtle romantic subplot adds charm without overshadowing the central plot.
Another standout feature is the worldbuilding itself. The integration of traditional folklore with modern technology creates a dynamic setting filled with gods, shapeshifters, vampires, and magic users. The story explores larger philosophical questions about storytelling, identity, and the power of narrative, like who controls it, and how it shapes our lives, which gives the story depth beyond its fantasy framework. I absolutely loved the worldbuilding, and I would love to continue exploring the world that Lieb created.
Overall, “Goldenborn” is an exciting and culturally rich YA fantasy that offers both thrilling adventure and meaningful themes. Its celebration of Ghanaian mythology, strong character development, and imaginative world make it a refreshing addition to the genre. For those seeking diverse storytelling, emotionally resonant characters, and inventive worldbuilding, “Goldenborn” is a standout debut that promises great things from Ama Ofosua Lieb.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Captivating Blend of Culture, Magic, and Heartfelt Mystery – A Must-Read!
From the moment I started Goldenborn, I was completely immersed in a world that felt both vividly real and wonderfully fantastical. Ama Ofosua Lieb has crafted a stunning debut that not only celebrates Ghanaian folklore but also delivers a compelling story packed with suspense, emotion, and unforgettable characters.
The setting in San Francisco’s AfricaTown is alive with detail—music, food, traditions, and community—creating an environment that’s rich in cultural authenticity. It’s a vibrant backdrop that beautifully intertwines modern urban life with ancient gods and supernatural mysteries. The way Lieb weaves in elements of Ghanaian mythology, especially the mischievous and clever Anansi, offers a fresh take on urban fantasy that feels both innovative and respectful of its roots.
Akoma Addo, the story’s brave and introspective protagonist, immediately drew me in. Her journey through grief, identity, and trust felt genuine and relatable. She’s not a hero who has everything figured out—she’s flawed, thoughtful, and fiercely determined to uncover the truth. Her internal struggles and growth make her a character I truly cared about, and watching her navigate the dangerous web of supernatural politics was both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
The plot is expertly paced—fast enough to keep your heart pounding, yet layered with enough complexity to keep you guessing. The deal with Anansi adds a delicious layer of moral ambiguity, forcing Akoma to question her beliefs and her own power. And the romance? Delightful and subtle, adding just the right amount of charm without detracting from the main story.
What really stands out is Lieb’s masterful worldbuilding. The blend of folklore, modern technology, and urban fantasy elements creates a universe that’s as intriguing as it is authentic. It invites readers to explore themes of storytelling, legacy, and the fluid nature of truth—questions that resonate well beyond the pages.
Goldenborn is more than just a fantasy novel; it’s a celebration of culture, resilience, and the power of stories to shape our lives. Ama Ofosua Lieb has delivered a debut that is bold, fresh, and deeply engaging—an absolute must-read for anyone who loves strong characters, cultural depth, and a good twist.
I cannot wait to see what she writes next. Highly recommended!
From the moment I started Goldenborn, I was completely immersed in a world that felt both vividly real and wonderfully fantastical. Ama Ofosua Lieb has crafted a stunning debut that not only celebrates Ghanaian folklore but also delivers a compelling story packed with suspense, emotion, and unforgettable characters.
The setting in San Francisco’s AfricaTown is alive with detail—music, food, traditions, and community—creating an environment that’s rich in cultural authenticity. It’s a vibrant backdrop that beautifully intertwines modern urban life with ancient gods and supernatural mysteries. The way Lieb weaves in elements of Ghanaian mythology, especially the mischievous and clever Anansi, offers a fresh take on urban fantasy that feels both innovative and respectful of its roots.
Akoma Addo, the story’s brave and introspective protagonist, immediately drew me in. Her journey through grief, identity, and trust felt genuine and relatable. She’s not a hero who has everything figured out—she’s flawed, thoughtful, and fiercely determined to uncover the truth. Her internal struggles and growth make her a character I truly cared about, and watching her navigate the dangerous web of supernatural politics was both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
The plot is expertly paced—fast enough to keep your heart pounding, yet layered with enough complexity to keep you guessing. The deal with Anansi adds a delicious layer of moral ambiguity, forcing Akoma to question her beliefs and her own power. And the romance? Delightful and subtle, adding just the right amount of charm without detracting from the main story.
What really stands out is Lieb’s masterful worldbuilding. The blend of folklore, modern technology, and urban fantasy elements creates a universe that’s as intriguing as it is authentic. It invites readers to explore themes of storytelling, legacy, and the fluid nature of truth—questions that resonate well beyond the pages.
Goldenborn is more than just a fantasy novel; it’s a celebration of culture, resilience, and the power of stories to shape our lives. Ama Ofosua Lieb has delivered a debut that is bold, fresh, and deeply engaging—an absolute must-read for anyone who loves strong characters, cultural depth, and a good twist.
I cannot wait to see what she writes next. Highly recommended!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
"Goldenborn" is the type of young adult fantasy story I always hope to discover but rarely do. It’s fast-paced, emotionally engaging, and set in a unique world inspired by cultures we don’t often see represented. The story takes place in San Francisco’s AfricaTown, which feels real and immersive. I appreciated how the Ghanaian gods and magical traditions are seamlessly integrated into a near-future city rather than being treated as separate or distant. The main character, Akoma, is dealing with the loss of her father while grappling with her complex relationship with magic. She’s caught between wanting to avoid the supernatural and being drawn into solving magical crimes, all while making a challenging deal with the trickster god Anansi. This adds depth to the story, as it’s not just about tracking down a killer but also about the sacrifices one makes to change their own story and uphold their family’s honor. I loved how the book explores themes of deception, storytelling, and power. Watching Akoma learn to take control of her own narrative instead of being manipulated by Anansi is incredibly rewarding. The subtle hints of romance complement the main themes without overpowering them. If you enjoy young adult stories that resonate with real emotions, have high stakes, and celebrate cultural backgrounds in a genuine way, "Goldenborn" is a remarkable choice.
"Goldenborn" is the type of young adult fantasy story I always hope to discover but rarely do. It’s fast-paced, emotionally engaging, and set in a unique world inspired by cultures we don’t often see represented. The story takes place in San Francisco’s AfricaTown, which feels real and immersive. I appreciated how the Ghanaian gods and magical traditions are seamlessly integrated into a near-future city rather than being treated as separate or distant. The main character, Akoma, is dealing with the loss of her father while grappling with her complex relationship with magic. She’s caught between wanting to avoid the supernatural and being drawn into solving magical crimes, all while making a challenging deal with the trickster god Anansi. This adds depth to the story, as it’s not just about tracking down a killer but also about the sacrifices one makes to change their own story and uphold their family’s honor. I loved how the book explores themes of deception, storytelling, and power. Watching Akoma learn to take control of her own narrative instead of being manipulated by Anansi is incredibly rewarding. The subtle hints of romance complement the main themes without overpowering them. If you enjoy young adult stories that resonate with real emotions, have high stakes, and celebrate cultural backgrounds in a genuine way, "Goldenborn" is a remarkable choice.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Heavily inspired by the mythology of Anansi, Lieb's new book is closer to a 4 than a 3 and features an intricate world-building experience with Akoma as the main character, a teenager whose job is as a secret investigator of of crimes related to the supernatural and it's hit even closer to home with her dad in a coma. Now she has come close to Anansi and a deal is struck that pulls her deeper into an underworld in the hopes of saving her father.
With a touch of romance, a lot of action with being a secret investigator, and aligning herself with the untrustworthy creature, the question is whether Akoma will come out the victor or not.
Plenty of action unfolding with an awesome cover.
With a touch of romance, a lot of action with being a secret investigator, and aligning herself with the untrustworthy creature, the question is whether Akoma will come out the victor or not.
Plenty of action unfolding with an awesome cover.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you’re into magic and mythology with a great female main character then this book is for you! Our heroine Akoma takes you on an adventure full of suspense and mystery! She’s on a mission to unravel this mystery but faces some trials along the way! It’s a face paced read that I couldn’t put down. Definitely add this one to your TBR as your next fantasy read!
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November 30, 2025This was such a brilliant mix of dystopian and contemporary fantasy I am in honestly in awe. It is feels incredibly YA, which I mean as a huge compliment, because it is everything I love about it.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews