Title: Redemption in Indigo
Author: Karen Lord
First published July 6, 2010
188 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781931520669 (ISBN10: 1931520666)
Rating: 3.87
Overview
When Paama leaves her foolish and gluttonous husband, she never expects to be gifted with the power to manipulate the forces of the world. The djombi, undying beings, present her with the Chaos Stick.
However, not all the djombi are happy about her gift. The Indigo Lord wants her power for himself and will stop at nothing to get it.
Will Paama succumb to his persuasion or will chaos reign supreme? Find out in Redemption in Indigo by Karen Lord.
Editoral Review
In her debut novel “Redemption in Indigo,” Karen Lord weaves a magical tale filled with African folklore and themes of self-discovery and redemption. Lord, who was born in Barbados, brings her West Indian roots to the forefront of this novel, creating a world that is both unique and captivating.
The story follows the life of Paama, a woman who possesses a special gift that allows her to communicate with the djombi, or spirits, that inhabit the world. However, Paama becomes tired of her gift and asks for it to be taken away.
The djombi grant her wish, but when Ansige, her husband, steals the djombi’s special food, Paama’s gift is returned to her in a mysterious way. The novel takes place in a fantastical world that is influenced by West African mythology, but also has a universal appeal.
The themes of self-discovery and redemption are universal, and Lord explores these themes with a deft hand. The writing is masterful, with Lord’s prose flowing effortlessly from page to page.
The characters in “Redemption in Indigo” are richly drawn and complex. Paama is a strong, intelligent woman who is fiercely independent.
Ansige is a flawed and selfish man who struggles with jealousy and pride. The djombi are a fascinating addition to the story, and Lord creates an intricate hierarchy for them that is both curious and enthralling.
The pacing of the novel is slow at first, but quickly picks up as the plot builds towards its climax. Lord masterfully weaves together multiple plot threads, seamlessly blending fantastical elements with real-world issues.
Her use of humor throughout the novel is also noteworthy, as it lends the story a lightheartedness that is often missing from fantasy novels. The only criticism that can be leveled at “Redemption in Indigo” is that at times, the plot can be confusing.
However, Lord’s writing is so engaging that it is easy to forgive this minor flaw. Overall, “Redemption in Indigo” is a remarkable debut novel that marks Karen Lord as a writer to watch.
It is a must-read for fans of fantasy and African mythology, but it also has broad appeal for anyone who enjoys a beautifully written, thought-provoking story. With its mix of folklore, humor, and heart, “Redemption in Indigo” is a true gem.
