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Aicha
Not yet published
Expected 24 Mar 26TEMPTRESS. MONSTER. WARRIOR.
Aicha is the story of Morocco's warrior goddess, her strange magic, fierce rebellion, and devastating romance. Debut author Soraya Bouazzaoui weaves an epic tale of female rage and hidden myths, perfect for fans of The City of Brass and The Stardust Thief.
The Portuguese flag has been planted across Morocco, its empire ruling with an iron fist. But eventually, all empires must fall.
Aicha, the daughter of a Moroccan freedom-fighter, was born for battle. She has witnessed the death of her people, their starvation and torture at the hands of the occupiers, and it has awakened an anger within her. An anger that burns hot and bright, and speaks to Aicha's soul.
Only Aicha's secret lover Rachid, a rebellion leader, knows how to soothe her. But as the fight for Morocco's freedom reaches its violent climax, the creature that simmers beneath Aicha's skin begs to be unleashed. It hungers for the screams of those who have caused her pain, and it will not be ignored.
Aicha is the story of Morocco's warrior goddess, her strange magic, fierce rebellion, and devastating romance. Debut author Soraya Bouazzaoui weaves an epic tale of female rage and hidden myths, perfect for fans of The City of Brass and The Stardust Thief.
The Portuguese flag has been planted across Morocco, its empire ruling with an iron fist. But eventually, all empires must fall.
Aicha, the daughter of a Moroccan freedom-fighter, was born for battle. She has witnessed the death of her people, their starvation and torture at the hands of the occupiers, and it has awakened an anger within her. An anger that burns hot and bright, and speaks to Aicha's soul.
Only Aicha's secret lover Rachid, a rebellion leader, knows how to soothe her. But as the fight for Morocco's freedom reaches its violent climax, the creature that simmers beneath Aicha's skin begs to be unleashed. It hungers for the screams of those who have caused her pain, and it will not be ignored.
352 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 24, 2026
6119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
October 24, 2025
For a cover and a premise that is so stunning, I am very disappointed.
This is inspired by the Portuguese occupation, Conquest of Ceuta, and the Moroccan myth of Aicha Kandicha.
Aicha is the daughter of a blacksmith and the secret leader of a Moroccan freedom-fighter.
Her sister is given a large part in the rebellion, but Aicha always feels like she is given the safe tasks, barely involved.
This is told as a countdown to the siege, but it all felt very repetitive and surface level. I wanted to dnf half-way through, but kept waiting for the fantasy aspect, the ‘darker power [that] simmers beneath her skin’ - as promised by the synopsis.
We are teased that Aicha is filled with rage and anger. Told, not shown, all the way through.
The ending was so rushed in comparison to the rest of the book which felt like one ridiculously long lead up to exactly what you would expect without even knowing the history or the myth.
There were so many threads left unresolved despite my complaints that nothing happened.
For example:
The romance felt thrown in there as well as a steamy chapter that was the only reason this could be considered adult. Especially with the massive hand-holding all the way through.
Then, the repressed guilt over her mother’s childbearing death and her own aversion to marriage and children as a result.
The exploration of conservative attitudes clashing with the occupation which felt very surface level and the biggest case of told, not shown with the same examples each time.
Finally, the portrayal of what might be magic - djinn, etc.
We also have a strange choice of randomly changing the pov in two chapters as a one-off.
I was excited by the promise of non-Western FANTASY, cultural representation, and female rage. Sadly, this did not deliver on any of these aspects for me.
I did like the sister relationship and I loved the representation we did get.
Physical arc gifted by Orbit.
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This is inspired by the Portuguese occupation, Conquest of Ceuta, and the Moroccan myth of Aicha Kandicha.
Aicha is the daughter of a blacksmith and the secret leader of a Moroccan freedom-fighter.
Her sister is given a large part in the rebellion, but Aicha always feels like she is given the safe tasks, barely involved.
This is told as a countdown to the siege, but it all felt very repetitive and surface level. I wanted to dnf half-way through, but kept waiting for the fantasy aspect, the ‘darker power [that] simmers beneath her skin’ - as promised by the synopsis.
We are teased that Aicha is filled with rage and anger. Told, not shown, all the way through.
The ending was so rushed in comparison to the rest of the book which felt like one ridiculously long lead up to exactly what you would expect without even knowing the history or the myth.
There were so many threads left unresolved despite my complaints that nothing happened.
For example:
The romance felt thrown in there as well as a steamy chapter that was the only reason this could be considered adult. Especially with the massive hand-holding all the way through.
Then, the repressed guilt over her mother’s childbearing death and her own aversion to marriage and children as a result.
The exploration of conservative attitudes clashing with the occupation which felt very surface level and the biggest case of told, not shown with the same examples each time.
Finally, the portrayal of what might be magic - djinn, etc.
We also have a strange choice of randomly changing the pov in two chapters as a one-off.
I was excited by the promise of non-Western FANTASY, cultural representation, and female rage. Sadly, this did not deliver on any of these aspects for me.
I did like the sister relationship and I loved the representation we did get.
Physical arc gifted by Orbit.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Want to read
July 3, 2025I hope they update the cover here soon, because I just saw it on twitter and it is amazing!
January 5, 2026
3.5 stars.
Minus the explicit sex scenes, this was a little too older YA/NA for me (easy to read, concepts aren't convoluted, ideas aren't too complex, etc.) But despite that, I absolutely loved the Moroccan rep and enjoyed my time reading this novel.
I don't read a lot of books from this region, so this was a brand new and exciting setting for me. The author definitely excelled with the worldbuilding and characterization. It was so easy to picture life in historical Morocco living under Portuguese colonization.
The way that Soraya Bouazzaoui wove in Islam and Moroccan witchcraft/sorcery into the story felt very natural and really enriched the story. If you're familiar with organized religion and its push and pull regarding local beliefs, then this aspect of the story might interest you. This was one of the stronger parts of the novel.
I would've rated this novel a lot higher if it was darker and grittier. For a family living under oppression and planning a rebellion, I didn't really feel a sense of urgency. There was danger, but it's the kind of danger you read about in standalone YA fantasy novels.
I think if the timeline were much longer and took place over Aicha's childhood and then early adulthood, we might be able to understand the full force of her anger. I feel like we only get snapshots of this throughout the novel. The climax was great, but the buildup wasn't as strong as it could've been.
And for me, this also applies to Aicha's relationships with her father and her sister. I think if we saw them all growing up together, I could feel something for her entire family. Instead, it was giving YA fantasy side character energy.
Honestly, I just wanted more out of everything. It was like ordering your favorite spicy dish, but the chef made it mild. I enjoyed it, but it definitely could've been a lot better.
While this didn't fully work out for me, I still think this is a great read for historical fantasy newbies or fantasy readers who prefer standalones and no commitment.
Thank you to Orbit and NetGalley for this arc.
Minus the explicit sex scenes, this was a little too older YA/NA for me (easy to read, concepts aren't convoluted, ideas aren't too complex, etc.) But despite that, I absolutely loved the Moroccan rep and enjoyed my time reading this novel.
I don't read a lot of books from this region, so this was a brand new and exciting setting for me. The author definitely excelled with the worldbuilding and characterization. It was so easy to picture life in historical Morocco living under Portuguese colonization.
The way that Soraya Bouazzaoui wove in Islam and Moroccan witchcraft/sorcery into the story felt very natural and really enriched the story. If you're familiar with organized religion and its push and pull regarding local beliefs, then this aspect of the story might interest you. This was one of the stronger parts of the novel.
I would've rated this novel a lot higher if it was darker and grittier. For a family living under oppression and planning a rebellion, I didn't really feel a sense of urgency. There was danger, but it's the kind of danger you read about in standalone YA fantasy novels.
I think if the timeline were much longer and took place over Aicha's childhood and then early adulthood, we might be able to understand the full force of her anger. I feel like we only get snapshots of this throughout the novel. The climax was great, but the buildup wasn't as strong as it could've been.
And for me, this also applies to Aicha's relationships with her father and her sister. I think if we saw them all growing up together, I could feel something for her entire family. Instead, it was giving YA fantasy side character energy.
Honestly, I just wanted more out of everything. It was like ordering your favorite spicy dish, but the chef made it mild. I enjoyed it, but it definitely could've been a lot better.
While this didn't fully work out for me, I still think this is a great read for historical fantasy newbies or fantasy readers who prefer standalones and no commitment.
Thank you to Orbit and NetGalley for this arc.
Want to read
April 18, 2024I will now be counting down the days till 2026, meep meep
December 21, 2025
I’ve been obsessed with Aicha for a while, and I’ve followed Soraya’s development updates and reveals for months. So when I spotted a physical advance reader copy at a book event, I was ready. I had a plan. I needed a digital copy as fast as possible and I’m so grateful to Orbit for making that happen in the span of 24 hours.
You see, Soraya and I have never met, but this book? We are in complete lockstep. Her reclaiming and rewriting of the fable of Aicha is profoundly moving, and I don’t think the average reader fully understands just how much this retelling will mean for so many readers. I can tell from the dismal early reviews, that many are missing the key arcs and honey, I’m here to set things right.
Having visited Morocco and heard firsthand the horrors of colonization, and the legacy of its impact, this story sits with me differently. We’re living in a time of conflict, of people turning away from atrocities, frozen in their ability to empathize or even simply act. Aicha forces you to confront that. Aicha herself is a tempest. Her rage bottled, releasing in controlled bursts as the story unfolds. Living in a colonized nation, her people face starvation, mutilation, violence, and the theft of land and culture. Duarte embodies all of this: the relentless, insidious villainy inspired by the same kinds of men we still see today.
There are several moments that made me pause. The characters waking up at dawn hiding to pray. When simply binding her curls or choosing clothes that won’t draw attention becomes an act of survival. How when faced with continued injustice Aicha doesn't give up or give in. This book makes you sit in discomfort, and it’s desperately, urgently needed. It stirs empathy. It tightens your chest with rage at every injustice Aicha endures.
And yet amid the quiet, unsettling darkness, we still get light. From Rachid, Fouad, Samira, Naima, and so many others who bring hope and warmth to the world Soraya has created. They help calm the rage and ground the story that is filled with pain.
“She is your curse, but also a gift. When the time comes, use it.”
Reclaim and rewrite. I’m in awe, and I’m on board for whatever Soraya does next. Thank you so much to Orbit Books, eternally glowing from this heart-wrenching read.
You see, Soraya and I have never met, but this book? We are in complete lockstep. Her reclaiming and rewriting of the fable of Aicha is profoundly moving, and I don’t think the average reader fully understands just how much this retelling will mean for so many readers. I can tell from the dismal early reviews, that many are missing the key arcs and honey, I’m here to set things right.
Having visited Morocco and heard firsthand the horrors of colonization, and the legacy of its impact, this story sits with me differently. We’re living in a time of conflict, of people turning away from atrocities, frozen in their ability to empathize or even simply act. Aicha forces you to confront that. Aicha herself is a tempest. Her rage bottled, releasing in controlled bursts as the story unfolds. Living in a colonized nation, her people face starvation, mutilation, violence, and the theft of land and culture. Duarte embodies all of this: the relentless, insidious villainy inspired by the same kinds of men we still see today.
There are several moments that made me pause. The characters waking up at dawn hiding to pray. When simply binding her curls or choosing clothes that won’t draw attention becomes an act of survival. How when faced with continued injustice Aicha doesn't give up or give in. This book makes you sit in discomfort, and it’s desperately, urgently needed. It stirs empathy. It tightens your chest with rage at every injustice Aicha endures.
And yet amid the quiet, unsettling darkness, we still get light. From Rachid, Fouad, Samira, Naima, and so many others who bring hope and warmth to the world Soraya has created. They help calm the rage and ground the story that is filled with pain.
“She is your curse, but also a gift. When the time comes, use it.”
Reclaim and rewrite. I’m in awe, and I’m on board for whatever Soraya does next. Thank you so much to Orbit Books, eternally glowing from this heart-wrenching read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 stars : ̗̀➛I think I've been horrified into silence.
The political impact of this book is astronomical, considering the experiences of these characters mirrors many experiences people are having today. Aicha was a tale of colonialism, settler violence & persecution and pure rage. I know this was makreted as feminine rage but I disagree, the rage experienced in this book isn't felt just by women but by everyone who is suffering under the reign of these colonisers including man and woman.
Aicha is a reimagined tale of the moroccan story of a warrior goddess, who has demonic magic she is unaware of. Set in Morocco, her homeland has been overrun by the Portugese and she is on the precipice of leading a rebelion with her father, sister and secret lover. But within Aicha, is an unchecked being of violence and anger that will not hesitate to take the reigns and retirieve the revenge she so desperately craves.
When I finished this book, the inner turmoil I felt reading the ending did not leave me. I was just staring at the air not knowing what to do. It was such a violent ending, that will undoubtedly haunt me 😭 I don't know if I regret reading this book but I feel like that's my ignorance talking because the way this book spoke MEASURES. The struggles of the Moroccan people hurt my heart to read because of how real this felt. Oh my heart is irreparably damaged 💔
The pain Aicha endures. I didn't cry at the ending but I feel like crying now as I write this review, processing that ending. Genuinely how do I shut up until the release date about this book? My heart is in shambles 😭
Now, you're probably wondering for a book that has likely wrecked me why have I rated it 3.75 stars? Let's get into it. To start, I wasn't fully engrossed the whole time I can't lie and felt a bit bored sometimes. I honestly didn't like Samira that much, Rachid felt hmmmmm just slightly sus to me 😭. As we learned more about Fouad, I needed more about him. I think the twist for his character was amazing and added more to the story, but we needed more of that geneseqoi if you catch my drift. I feel likeeeee the smut was uneeded. Or rather, that style of smut. In my opinion, there's 3 ways to write a smut scene- explicit, fade-> black, and Olivie Blake style. Given the tone of the story and Aicha & Rachid's relationship I feel like the intimate scene between them should have had more of a focus on the emotional intimacy rather than the physical aspect, you know? The explicit style felt quite tastless and added nothing. Lastly, I don't think the concept of Mahr was correctly explained?
Anyway, now I'm stuck between the decision of trying to forget this book or actually dwelling and reflecting on it.
release date: 24th march 2026
thank you so much netgalley & sourcebooks for an eARC !!
4 stars
pre read: this book cover is mothering— middle eastern fantasy + female rage may possibly be the best combo
The political impact of this book is astronomical, considering the experiences of these characters mirrors many experiences people are having today. Aicha was a tale of colonialism, settler violence & persecution and pure rage. I know this was makreted as feminine rage but I disagree, the rage experienced in this book isn't felt just by women but by everyone who is suffering under the reign of these colonisers including man and woman.
Aicha is a reimagined tale of the moroccan story of a warrior goddess, who has demonic magic she is unaware of. Set in Morocco, her homeland has been overrun by the Portugese and she is on the precipice of leading a rebelion with her father, sister and secret lover. But within Aicha, is an unchecked being of violence and anger that will not hesitate to take the reigns and retirieve the revenge she so desperately craves.
When I finished this book, the inner turmoil I felt reading the ending did not leave me. I was just staring at the air not knowing what to do. It was such a violent ending, that will undoubtedly haunt me 😭 I don't know if I regret reading this book but I feel like that's my ignorance talking because the way this book spoke MEASURES. The struggles of the Moroccan people hurt my heart to read because of how real this felt. Oh my heart is irreparably damaged 💔
The pain Aicha endures. I didn't cry at the ending but I feel like crying now as I write this review, processing that ending. Genuinely how do I shut up until the release date about this book? My heart is in shambles 😭
Now, you're probably wondering for a book that has likely wrecked me why have I rated it 3.75 stars? Let's get into it. To start, I wasn't fully engrossed the whole time I can't lie and felt a bit bored sometimes. I honestly didn't like Samira that much, Rachid felt hmmmmm just slightly sus to me 😭. As we learned more about Fouad, I needed more about him. I think the twist for his character was amazing and added more to the story, but we needed more of that geneseqoi if you catch my drift. I feel likeeeee the smut was uneeded. Or rather, that style of smut. In my opinion, there's 3 ways to write a smut scene- explicit, fade-> black, and Olivie Blake style. Given the tone of the story and Aicha & Rachid's relationship I feel like the intimate scene between them should have had more of a focus on the emotional intimacy rather than the physical aspect, you know? The explicit style felt quite tastless and added nothing. Lastly, I don't think the concept of Mahr was correctly explained?
Anyway, now I'm stuck between the decision of trying to forget this book or actually dwelling and reflecting on it.
release date: 24th march 2026
thank you so much netgalley & sourcebooks for an eARC !!
4 stars
pre read: this book cover is mothering— middle eastern fantasy + female rage may possibly be the best combo
Want to read
March 20, 2024THE WAY IM EXCITED FOR THIS BOOK🤍🤍🤍
Read
December 22, 2025I'm having to DNF this at 41%. Cool premise but lacklustre execution.
Most of the novel is spent telling us about Aicha's anger and not showing us. It's a similar problem with Aicha's relationships - telling us they're close but her inner monologue is quite unflattering and judgemental.
I don't love the way her fear of motherhood is portrayed. It's not allowed for her to just not want children it has to be some sort of cliche fear of dying in childbirth but actually she'd be an excellent mother. This is a legitimate experience but the way it's written leaves much to be desired.
In the same vein, the discussions on religion felt really conservative and simplistic. This may have developed towards the end of the novel but I really doubt it. Aicha has a sense of superiority over her friend as a Muslim woman. She seems to think that she's being benevolent by being friends with her even though her lifestyle and magic was evil which was really frustrating. What could've been a really interesting plotline about navigating interfaith friendships felt quite reductive and infuriating.
The idea of the love interest already being established is a really interesting idea in theory but it removes a lot of the intrigue from the relationship.
This combination of issues made being in Aicha's head incredibly unpleasant. I found her to be annoying and childish. It's not helped by the incredibly simplistic writing style. It felt like it should've been a YA novel.
I wish I has loved this. I would still be interested in reading this authors future works because a lot of the issues I had could be rectified with more experience but this just wasn't for me.
Most of the novel is spent telling us about Aicha's anger and not showing us. It's a similar problem with Aicha's relationships - telling us they're close but her inner monologue is quite unflattering and judgemental.
I don't love the way her fear of motherhood is portrayed. It's not allowed for her to just not want children it has to be some sort of cliche fear of dying in childbirth but actually she'd be an excellent mother. This is a legitimate experience but the way it's written leaves much to be desired.
In the same vein, the discussions on religion felt really conservative and simplistic. This may have developed towards the end of the novel but I really doubt it. Aicha has a sense of superiority over her friend as a Muslim woman. She seems to think that she's being benevolent by being friends with her even though her lifestyle and magic was evil which was really frustrating. What could've been a really interesting plotline about navigating interfaith friendships felt quite reductive and infuriating.
The idea of the love interest already being established is a really interesting idea in theory but it removes a lot of the intrigue from the relationship.
This combination of issues made being in Aicha's head incredibly unpleasant. I found her to be annoying and childish. It's not helped by the incredibly simplistic writing style. It felt like it should've been a YA novel.
I wish I has loved this. I would still be interested in reading this authors future works because a lot of the issues I had could be rectified with more experience but this just wasn't for me.
August 29, 2025
omgggg this book was insane, it was like watching a movie the way it was so immersive!! official blurb:
"Masterfully woven, AICHA is a heart-pounding and immersive read that has it all: intriguing magic, devastating romance, detailed world-building, and fascinating mythology. Bouazzaoui crafts her powerful debut with gut-wrenching intricacy. This is a must read.”
"Masterfully woven, AICHA is a heart-pounding and immersive read that has it all: intriguing magic, devastating romance, detailed world-building, and fascinating mythology. Bouazzaoui crafts her powerful debut with gut-wrenching intricacy. This is a must read.”
September 14, 2025
this book is so painfully rich - truly just full of everything you could want in a fantasy book and more and i can't wait to have an actual physical copy in my hands
December 3, 2025
I’m torn, I loved this.. but I wanted more!
Aicha isn’t just a perfect retelling of Moroccan lore, but it manages to grasp some of the nuances people have to maneuver during occupation. The lack of autonomy in one’s own land. The lack of peace, food, the erasure of their cultural and religious practices. The way individuals have to choose a path in life based on pure necessity, instead of passion or skill. These all are things many of us take for granted, and I might argue we all should. But it’s not granted equally to all humans.
Aicha is many things, but one thing that I loved about her the most was the true love for her people. Her connection to her sister, the love and adoration for her father. My heart broke several times, I felt rage and shortly after my heart was soothed.
As a little sister myself, I identify with Aicha on a spiritual level and frequently have and forever will be my sisters keeper. Did I mention that she’s a loyal friend as well?
The writing was immersive and the pacing was fast. There isn’t a dull moment and the plot continues to thicken. The chapters are generally shorter, but cut off at decent points that allow you to reorient yourself in the next one without any tension or speed being lost.
Soraya Bouazzaoui recreated and gave might to Aicha in a way that is undeniably a burning reminder that love can conquer.. most.
Thank you to Orbit Books for allowing me to read my most anticipated read for 2026 and rage along Aicha!
Aicha isn’t just a perfect retelling of Moroccan lore, but it manages to grasp some of the nuances people have to maneuver during occupation. The lack of autonomy in one’s own land. The lack of peace, food, the erasure of their cultural and religious practices. The way individuals have to choose a path in life based on pure necessity, instead of passion or skill. These all are things many of us take for granted, and I might argue we all should. But it’s not granted equally to all humans.
Aicha is many things, but one thing that I loved about her the most was the true love for her people. Her connection to her sister, the love and adoration for her father. My heart broke several times, I felt rage and shortly after my heart was soothed.
As a little sister myself, I identify with Aicha on a spiritual level and frequently have and forever will be my sisters keeper. Did I mention that she’s a loyal friend as well?
The writing was immersive and the pacing was fast. There isn’t a dull moment and the plot continues to thicken. The chapters are generally shorter, but cut off at decent points that allow you to reorient yourself in the next one without any tension or speed being lost.
Soraya Bouazzaoui recreated and gave might to Aicha in a way that is undeniably a burning reminder that love can conquer.. most.
Thank you to Orbit Books for allowing me to read my most anticipated read for 2026 and rage along Aicha!
January 15, 2026
ARC REVIEW
I wanted to dnf this so bad 40% in. I am so disappointed I think I need to stop reading books described as “female rage”. Being of Moroccan descent myself, the representation is nice but I’m not sure it’s accessible if you don’t know this part of history (Portuguese occupation of the North of Morocco) but also if you don’t speak Arabic.
Except for the one tame smut scene, this book feels very YA. The writing is not particular, it lacks the use of pronouns as the names of every character are repeated over again. It’s also very bland, it doesn’t really make you feel anything. The characters came out as shallow there’s nothing deeper explained about them. I did not care about any of them. One thing that was also very peculiar with the writing was the ability to make transitions. We went from paragraph to paragraph changing locations, povs and situations and it was done so abruptly 😔😔
I’m still not sure what is happening with Aïcha’s power and I did feel that it was weird having magic powers but also being Muslim. It doesn’t make a lot of sense I’m not sure it was necessary to make the characters Muslim as such, nor exactly name Portugal Portugal and Morocco Morocco. It read like a fictional history book.
I wanted to dnf this so bad 40% in. I am so disappointed I think I need to stop reading books described as “female rage”. Being of Moroccan descent myself, the representation is nice but I’m not sure it’s accessible if you don’t know this part of history (Portuguese occupation of the North of Morocco) but also if you don’t speak Arabic.
Except for the one tame smut scene, this book feels very YA. The writing is not particular, it lacks the use of pronouns as the names of every character are repeated over again. It’s also very bland, it doesn’t really make you feel anything. The characters came out as shallow there’s nothing deeper explained about them. I did not care about any of them. One thing that was also very peculiar with the writing was the ability to make transitions. We went from paragraph to paragraph changing locations, povs and situations and it was done so abruptly 😔😔
I’m still not sure what is happening with Aïcha’s power and I did feel that it was weird having magic powers but also being Muslim. It doesn’t make a lot of sense I’m not sure it was necessary to make the characters Muslim as such, nor exactly name Portugal Portugal and Morocco Morocco. It read like a fictional history book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such an interesting concept. Also a veeeery timely read for our current socioeconomic climate 🙃🫠
Anyways, this book captures the story of a Moroccan family under Portuguese occupation. I do agree with other reviewers, this isn't "a woman's rage", this is the rage of anyone fighting for their homeland. For freedom, for space, for peace.
There was a lot of good- the representation, the culture, and some of the world building.
I didnt care as much for the lack of depth in some of the side characters. I also wish there was less "telling" and more "showing", I wanted to feel her rage and her connection with Rachid moooooore. I do think this at times read YA/NA.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was such an interesting concept. Also a veeeery timely read for our current socioeconomic climate 🙃🫠
Anyways, this book captures the story of a Moroccan family under Portuguese occupation. I do agree with other reviewers, this isn't "a woman's rage", this is the rage of anyone fighting for their homeland. For freedom, for space, for peace.
There was a lot of good- the representation, the culture, and some of the world building.
I didnt care as much for the lack of depth in some of the side characters. I also wish there was less "telling" and more "showing", I wanted to feel her rage and her connection with Rachid moooooore. I do think this at times read YA/NA.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 6, 2025
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
November 19, 2025
2.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc
I was really excited to read this, the premise sounded so promising, and I went in expecting a rich, emotionally layered story. Unfortunately, the execution fell short for me. It never fully engaged me.
The writing style was thin and oddly YA in tone, even though the book seems aimed at an older audience. Big emotions and themes are mostly stated outright rather than being earned on the page, so scenes that should have been powerful or moving just sort of passed by without leaving much impact. We’re constantly told that Aicha is burning with anger, haunted by grief and guilt, but we rarely feel it with her. The result is a lot of repetition and “telling” instead of immersive, character-driven moments. You have to believe that your readers have some level of intelligence and critical thinking abilities but the amount of hand holding here got patronising fast.
Structurally, the countdown to the siege started to feel like a long, drawn-out lead-up to an ending that was both predictable and rushed. The fantasy elements, especially the hinted “darker power” and the jinn/magic side never really take center stage and end up feeling more like decoration than a real part of the story. On top of that, several threads are introduced (Aicha’s complicated feelings about marriage and motherhood, the tension between conservative traditions and occupation, etc) but remain shallow and unresolved, as if the book kept circling the same points without fully developing them.
The characters themselves never quite came alive for me. Aicha and the side characters felt underdeveloped and flat, more like outlines than fully realized people with distinct voices and inner lives, depth and nuance. The romance in particular felt tacked on, there’s one steamier moment that seems to be doing all the work of making this “adult,” but the relationship itself lacks chemistry and emotional build-up. I never found myself rooting for them to end up together; it just felt like something that was supposed to matter rather than something that actually did.
Overall, it’s a book I really wanted to love, but it just didn’t deliver on its potential.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc
I was really excited to read this, the premise sounded so promising, and I went in expecting a rich, emotionally layered story. Unfortunately, the execution fell short for me. It never fully engaged me.
The writing style was thin and oddly YA in tone, even though the book seems aimed at an older audience. Big emotions and themes are mostly stated outright rather than being earned on the page, so scenes that should have been powerful or moving just sort of passed by without leaving much impact. We’re constantly told that Aicha is burning with anger, haunted by grief and guilt, but we rarely feel it with her. The result is a lot of repetition and “telling” instead of immersive, character-driven moments. You have to believe that your readers have some level of intelligence and critical thinking abilities but the amount of hand holding here got patronising fast.
Structurally, the countdown to the siege started to feel like a long, drawn-out lead-up to an ending that was both predictable and rushed. The fantasy elements, especially the hinted “darker power” and the jinn/magic side never really take center stage and end up feeling more like decoration than a real part of the story. On top of that, several threads are introduced (Aicha’s complicated feelings about marriage and motherhood, the tension between conservative traditions and occupation, etc) but remain shallow and unresolved, as if the book kept circling the same points without fully developing them.
The characters themselves never quite came alive for me. Aicha and the side characters felt underdeveloped and flat, more like outlines than fully realized people with distinct voices and inner lives, depth and nuance. The romance in particular felt tacked on, there’s one steamier moment that seems to be doing all the work of making this “adult,” but the relationship itself lacks chemistry and emotional build-up. I never found myself rooting for them to end up together; it just felt like something that was supposed to matter rather than something that actually did.
Overall, it’s a book I really wanted to love, but it just didn’t deliver on its potential.
dnf
October 15, 2025DNF’ed at ~31%
It’s nice to see something different from all these Greek mythology retellings, and the premise sounded really promising.
Unfortunately, the writing just didn’t work for me. It read so lifeless and bland to me that everything else did as well. It’s overwritten, monotonous, and was too heavy on telling and exposition. The plot meandered without clear focus or tension, and I struggled to stay engaged. I didn’t feel connected to the characters or immersed in the setting, which made reading a chore.
That said, I did appreciate Aisha’s close family relationships and the fact that her romantic relationship was already established, which both made for refreshing details.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s nice to see something different from all these Greek mythology retellings, and the premise sounded really promising.
Unfortunately, the writing just didn’t work for me. It read so lifeless and bland to me that everything else did as well. It’s overwritten, monotonous, and was too heavy on telling and exposition. The plot meandered without clear focus or tension, and I struggled to stay engaged. I didn’t feel connected to the characters or immersed in the setting, which made reading a chore.
That said, I did appreciate Aisha’s close family relationships and the fact that her romantic relationship was already established, which both made for refreshing details.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
March 20, 2024IM SO EXCITED FOR THIS SORAYA 🥹🫶🏻
November 7, 2025
Thank you so much to Orbit Books for the ARC!
For a book with such a striking cover and an incredible premise, Aicha turned out to be a real disappointment for me. It’s inspired by the Portuguese conquest of Ceuta and the Moroccan myth of Aicha Kandicha, which immediately caught my attention. The setup had all the potential for something fierce and layered: a blacksmith’s daughter secretly leading a rebellion, her sister deeply involved in the fight, and hints of a dark power simmering under Aicha’s skin. But what we actually get is a repetitive countdown to a siege that never builds enough tension. The pacing drags, the fantasy elements barely make an appearance until the very end, and when they finally do, the payoff feels rushed and underwhelming.
I was especially frustrated by how much the story told me about Aicha’s rage instead of showing it. We’re reminded again and again that she’s angry, but her choices rarely reflect any meaningful growth or depth. She mostly comes across as reckless rather than driven. The romance subplot didn’t help either. It felt randomly inserted, with repetitive, nearly identical scenes that made it hard to stay invested. There’s one steamy chapter that seems included just to make the book “adult,” but it doesn’t add emotional weight or complexity.
Still, I did appreciate the relationship between Aicha and her sister, as well as the bits of cultural representation that made it through. Those parts felt genuine and heartfelt. I just wish the book had leaned harder into those elements instead of rehashing the same emotional beats and surface-level commentary on colonialism. Three stars for ambition and a few strong moments, but I can’t help feeling let down by what could have been something powerful.
For a book with such a striking cover and an incredible premise, Aicha turned out to be a real disappointment for me. It’s inspired by the Portuguese conquest of Ceuta and the Moroccan myth of Aicha Kandicha, which immediately caught my attention. The setup had all the potential for something fierce and layered: a blacksmith’s daughter secretly leading a rebellion, her sister deeply involved in the fight, and hints of a dark power simmering under Aicha’s skin. But what we actually get is a repetitive countdown to a siege that never builds enough tension. The pacing drags, the fantasy elements barely make an appearance until the very end, and when they finally do, the payoff feels rushed and underwhelming.
I was especially frustrated by how much the story told me about Aicha’s rage instead of showing it. We’re reminded again and again that she’s angry, but her choices rarely reflect any meaningful growth or depth. She mostly comes across as reckless rather than driven. The romance subplot didn’t help either. It felt randomly inserted, with repetitive, nearly identical scenes that made it hard to stay invested. There’s one steamy chapter that seems included just to make the book “adult,” but it doesn’t add emotional weight or complexity.
Still, I did appreciate the relationship between Aicha and her sister, as well as the bits of cultural representation that made it through. Those parts felt genuine and heartfelt. I just wish the book had leaned harder into those elements instead of rehashing the same emotional beats and surface-level commentary on colonialism. Three stars for ambition and a few strong moments, but I can’t help feeling let down by what could have been something powerful.
November 23, 2025
Aicha is an epic historical fantasy romance with lots of female rage, political intrigue, & dark folklore. The story follows Aicha, the daughter of a Moroccan freedom fighter during the Portuguese occupation. Her people suffer under tyranny and she feels anger that’s personal and generational. Beneath her human skin is a dark power—a creature born of her fury and grief, longing to be unleashed. Aicha’s secret lover, Rachid, soothes her pain—but as their fight for freedom intensifies, Aicha must decide whether to tame or release the monster within.
Aicha is the embodiment of female rage & is a powerful heroine. Her inner conflict bounces between anger, grief, & longing, making her very layered. Rachid, her secret lover and a rebellion leader, is a steady, calming force in her life, but their heated relationship is but weighed down by secrecy & duty. Family legacy and generationak trauma are very pronounced in this story—Aicha’s family’s roots in the freedom-fighter community gives her a sense of purpose & identity.
The world building is good—16th-century Morocco is richly described with its deserts, coastal towns, & Portuguese occupation. Moroccan folklore is also a key part of the story—the legend of Aicha Kandicha, a mysterious jinn-like figure comes up and mirrors Aicha’s own rage & power.
The pacing feels like a time-bomb narrative—from the opening chapters there’s a constant sense of a siege coming. The midsection has political intrigue & delves deeper into Aicha’s internal struggles—and feels a bit repetitive, often circling back to Aicha’s anger. But when the climax hits, it’s explosive & very cinematic—the rebellion reaches its breaking point and Aicha’s darker power fully manifests in a tense, emotional finale that lingers!
Overall, Aicha is a standout debut that will resonate with readers who love epic historical fantasy, forbidden romances, & female protagonists who fully embody feminine rage!
Aicha is the embodiment of female rage & is a powerful heroine. Her inner conflict bounces between anger, grief, & longing, making her very layered. Rachid, her secret lover and a rebellion leader, is a steady, calming force in her life, but their heated relationship is but weighed down by secrecy & duty. Family legacy and generationak trauma are very pronounced in this story—Aicha’s family’s roots in the freedom-fighter community gives her a sense of purpose & identity.
The world building is good—16th-century Morocco is richly described with its deserts, coastal towns, & Portuguese occupation. Moroccan folklore is also a key part of the story—the legend of Aicha Kandicha, a mysterious jinn-like figure comes up and mirrors Aicha’s own rage & power.
The pacing feels like a time-bomb narrative—from the opening chapters there’s a constant sense of a siege coming. The midsection has political intrigue & delves deeper into Aicha’s internal struggles—and feels a bit repetitive, often circling back to Aicha’s anger. But when the climax hits, it’s explosive & very cinematic—the rebellion reaches its breaking point and Aicha’s darker power fully manifests in a tense, emotional finale that lingers!
Overall, Aicha is a standout debut that will resonate with readers who love epic historical fantasy, forbidden romances, & female protagonists who fully embody feminine rage!
December 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
DNF @ 25%
This is one of those books where you need context beforehand or it makes little sense. The author did helpfully include a note before the start of the story explaining the current political landscape during the scope of this book. It did feel a bit like a new, more tedious way of info dumping since it was like reading a history lesson and trying to remember it during the book.
This book takes place in Morocco during a time when it was occupied by the Portuguese and Islam was outlawed. From page one the story seems to be leading up to a large siege where the rebels will be trying to take back Morocco, or at least the citadel portrayed in the story.
Here was my problem: I didn't care. A large battle in a story is only interesting so long as you're invested in the outcome. You need to have connection with the story as a whole and the characters involved. I couldn't care about any of them because they're so wooden bordering on unlikable. Aicha's father in particular grated on my nerves. We're told over and over how devoted he is to his daughters and then on page he won't stop slapping Aicha. "But it was a different time! A different culture!" That's fine, but it's not going to make me like him more.
I think this book would be really good for a history junkie that would like to see speculative historical fiction. Unfortunately I am not a history junkie, so this book doesn't work for me. After reading some other reviews that the pacing is going to continue being slow, and the characters are going to continue to be wooden, I decided it wasn't worth it and gave up.
Best wishes to Soraya Bouazzaoui and their future publications
DNF @ 25%
This is one of those books where you need context beforehand or it makes little sense. The author did helpfully include a note before the start of the story explaining the current political landscape during the scope of this book. It did feel a bit like a new, more tedious way of info dumping since it was like reading a history lesson and trying to remember it during the book.
This book takes place in Morocco during a time when it was occupied by the Portuguese and Islam was outlawed. From page one the story seems to be leading up to a large siege where the rebels will be trying to take back Morocco, or at least the citadel portrayed in the story.
Here was my problem: I didn't care. A large battle in a story is only interesting so long as you're invested in the outcome. You need to have connection with the story as a whole and the characters involved. I couldn't care about any of them because they're so wooden bordering on unlikable. Aicha's father in particular grated on my nerves. We're told over and over how devoted he is to his daughters and then on page he won't stop slapping Aicha. "But it was a different time! A different culture!" That's fine, but it's not going to make me like him more.
I think this book would be really good for a history junkie that would like to see speculative historical fiction. Unfortunately I am not a history junkie, so this book doesn't work for me. After reading some other reviews that the pacing is going to continue being slow, and the characters are going to continue to be wooden, I decided it wasn't worth it and gave up.
Best wishes to Soraya Bouazzaoui and their future publications
Want to read
November 4, 2025I wasn't familiar with the story of Aicha Kandicha - look it up on Google guys because it's amazing. This book is definitely among my most anticipated 2026 releases. Check the trigger warnings and content warnings on the author's Instagram (they'll be in the book, but I feel it's important to read it before).
December 10, 2025
“Aicha” is pure female-rage fantasy in the best way, a stunning mix of myth, rebellion and forbidden love.
Fierce, brutal, chaotic… I devoured it.
The ending? Absolutely explosive!!
A beautifully wild debut that left me haunted in the best way.🥰
Thank you Orbit Books US for the opportunity to read this book!
Fierce, brutal, chaotic… I devoured it.
The ending? Absolutely explosive!!
A beautifully wild debut that left me haunted in the best way.🥰
Thank you Orbit Books US for the opportunity to read this book!
Currently reading
October 16, 2025I HAVE PROOF IM EXCITED!!!!!!
Want to read
November 25, 2025r u f'ing kidding me! a Aicha Kandicha inspired fantasy!!! my Moroccan ass is about to have a blastttt! waiting impatiently for this to come out!
Read
December 23, 2025Author interview: https://wearewhitefox.com/q-and-a-wit...
Want to read
November 9, 2025Thank you netgalley and little, brown book group for this arc.
October 24, 2025
Aïcha delivers on so many things: the historical and cultural set up, the rightful anger, and tender love. I also learned so much on the Portuguese occupation of Morocco, which I know so little about.
I struggled in the first 30% of the books, as it took a while for the plot to start hooking me.
Thank you Netgalley and Little Brown for the ARC.
I struggled in the first 30% of the books, as it took a while for the plot to start hooking me.
Thank you Netgalley and Little Brown for the ARC.
Want to read
August 13, 2025A story of female rage, Morocco's warrior goddess, her strange magic, vicious rebellion and devastating romance, perfect for fans of She Who Became the Sun, The Jasmine Throne and Circe."
sold
sold
Want to read
July 3, 2025I grew up with my mother telling me stories about Aicha Kandicha I could not be more excited for this book!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley, the publisher and the author for granting me an advanced copy in exchange of my honest review!
Soraya Bouazzaoui describes Aicha as a female-rage tale about the Moroccan myth succubus Aicha Kandicha. This description is what brought me to the story in the first place. Thus, I started follwoing her on social media, even though I didn't know anything about the myth. So, when the opportunity to get an ARC arose, I jumped straight into it.
Now, let's dive into my thoughts on it.
Plot summary
We follow Aicha as the Sultan and the rebels are preparing to take back the citadel, the last port under Portuguese rule in Moroccan soil. During these preparations, Aicha becomes more involved in the rebellion as the second daughter of rebellion's leader inside the city.
Please note that this book is not a young adult novel. Look up the trigger-warning before reading.
Prose
It's beautiful in my opinion. I distinctly remember thinking "Wow, this is really well-written" at the very beginning of the book. I stand by it. Soraya's writing was beautiful and even though some times doesn't flow super well into the next idea, I overall think it's well connected. Her choice of words and her way of describing things and situations cautivated me in a way many books haven't in a long time.
Characters
There aren't many characters in the story, therefore each one of them is distinct in their own right.
Aicha—the main character, of course— is a stubborn enraged eighteen-year-old rebel. We follow mainly her point of view, or rather what happens to her and what she does in response. I've seen many people pointing out that they didn't like Aicha's behaviour, that she was spoiled and a little brat. While I agree that's true, I believe that's the whole point. That she's been born under occupation and it's so enraged by the settlers treatment to her people and herself, the racism and the slurs that she can no longer control herself. Besides, I'm sure if she was a man, her actions wouldn't be as scandalous for many people.
I was rooting for her even though she pissed me off at times too.
Rachid is the love interest and one of the rebels' leaders. He plays the voice of reason to Aicha when she's been reckless and only sees red. I think they made an interesting couple and his character was comforting between the violence and death. I love when men trust their partner with every fiber of their body. I liked that he wasn't fazed by Aicha's nature, even encouraged it.
Duarte is the main antagonist. He's the Portuguese Commander that reigns over the city in the King's name. He's cruel and vile, he enjoys being a settler and a coloniser, feels entitled to the city, the Maghrebis' submission and treating them like lesser people, and enjoys the violence he injects on them. In that regard, Soraya did an amazing work portraying him. However, I didn't feel any ounce of empathy for him and his end. He deserved that.
Fouad and Samara, Aicha's father and older sister, take a somehow backseat in the story. They're prominent characters as they're Aicha's family and they do have influence in the evolutiuon of Aicha's character, however I wouldn't say their personalities are fleshed out as Rachid's or Duarte's. It makes sense, recollecting what happens at the end.
There are another few characters that don't have such a prominent role in the story, like Naima, Aicha's closest friend, and Ilham, Naima's adopted mother and a shwala (witch).
Ending
The last few pages had me at the edge of my seat, anxiety at its peak. That's because I didn't know about the myth prior to reading the book. Entirely my fault, although, it was a pleasant experience.
However it left a sour taste in my mouth, because everyone followed its destiny and I wanted them to be happy. It doesn't matter though, the story isn't about the ending, it's about Aicha and the talks about grief, loss, colonialism and racism.
Final thoughts
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes retellings, myths, African mythology and/or standalone fantasy (although, this book reads more like a historical fiction than a historical fantasy). It isn't fast-paced at all, however, it's fairly easy to follow and fly through it.
Again, this book is ADULT fantasy. Search up the trigger-warnings and read at your own risk.
Soraya Bouazzaoui describes Aicha as a female-rage tale about the Moroccan myth succubus Aicha Kandicha. This description is what brought me to the story in the first place. Thus, I started follwoing her on social media, even though I didn't know anything about the myth. So, when the opportunity to get an ARC arose, I jumped straight into it.
Now, let's dive into my thoughts on it.
Plot summary
We follow Aicha as the Sultan and the rebels are preparing to take back the citadel, the last port under Portuguese rule in Moroccan soil. During these preparations, Aicha becomes more involved in the rebellion as the second daughter of rebellion's leader inside the city.
Please note that this book is not a young adult novel. Look up the trigger-warning before reading.
Prose
It's beautiful in my opinion. I distinctly remember thinking "Wow, this is really well-written" at the very beginning of the book. I stand by it. Soraya's writing was beautiful and even though some times doesn't flow super well into the next idea, I overall think it's well connected. Her choice of words and her way of describing things and situations cautivated me in a way many books haven't in a long time.
Characters
There aren't many characters in the story, therefore each one of them is distinct in their own right.
Aicha—the main character, of course— is a stubborn enraged eighteen-year-old rebel. We follow mainly her point of view, or rather what happens to her and what she does in response. I've seen many people pointing out that they didn't like Aicha's behaviour, that she was spoiled and a little brat. While I agree that's true, I believe that's the whole point. That she's been born under occupation and it's so enraged by the settlers treatment to her people and herself, the racism and the slurs that she can no longer control herself. Besides, I'm sure if she was a man, her actions wouldn't be as scandalous for many people.
I was rooting for her even though she pissed me off at times too.
Rachid is the love interest and one of the rebels' leaders. He plays the voice of reason to Aicha when she's been reckless and only sees red. I think they made an interesting couple and his character was comforting between the violence and death. I love when men trust their partner with every fiber of their body. I liked that he wasn't fazed by Aicha's nature, even encouraged it.
Duarte is the main antagonist. He's the Portuguese Commander that reigns over the city in the King's name. He's cruel and vile, he enjoys being a settler and a coloniser, feels entitled to the city, the Maghrebis' submission and treating them like lesser people, and enjoys the violence he injects on them. In that regard, Soraya did an amazing work portraying him. However, I didn't feel any ounce of empathy for him and his end. He deserved that.
Fouad and Samara, Aicha's father and older sister, take a somehow backseat in the story. They're prominent characters as they're Aicha's family and they do have influence in the evolutiuon of Aicha's character, however I wouldn't say their personalities are fleshed out as Rachid's or Duarte's. It makes sense, recollecting what happens at the end.
There are another few characters that don't have such a prominent role in the story, like Naima, Aicha's closest friend, and Ilham, Naima's adopted mother and a shwala (witch).
Ending
The last few pages had me at the edge of my seat, anxiety at its peak. That's because I didn't know about the myth prior to reading the book. Entirely my fault, although, it was a pleasant experience.
However it left a sour taste in my mouth, because everyone followed its destiny and I wanted them to be happy. It doesn't matter though, the story isn't about the ending, it's about Aicha and the talks about grief, loss, colonialism and racism.
Final thoughts
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes retellings, myths, African mythology and/or standalone fantasy (although, this book reads more like a historical fiction than a historical fantasy). It isn't fast-paced at all, however, it's fairly easy to follow and fly through it.
Again, this book is ADULT fantasy. Search up the trigger-warnings and read at your own risk.
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