So Let Them Burn by Kamilah Cole

In the vast landscape of young adult fantasy fiction, some books ignite with a fierce brilliance that stays with readers long after the final page. Kamilah Cole’s debut novel “So Let Them Burn” is precisely such a flame—a dazzling introduction to a world where fire magic, divine vengeance, and complex sisterhood intertwine to create one of the most compelling YA fantasies of 2023. This Jamaican-inspired fantasy tells the story of Faron, a young woman navigating a world where her fire magic could either save or condemn her kingdom. At Readlogy, we believe this novel represents a significant contribution to the growing body of diverse fantasy literature that’s reshaping the genre’s landscape with fresh perspectives and cultural richness.

What Is “So Let Them Burn” About?

“So Let Them Burn” is a young adult fantasy novel about Faron, a fire wielder who must overcome personal trauma and reunite with her estranged sister to stop an ancient, vengeful goddess from destroying their kingdom. The novel explores themes of sisterhood, divine retribution, and personal redemption within a richly developed Jamaican-inspired fantasy world where magic is both gift and curse. Published in January 2023 by Delacorte Press, this 416-page debut from Kamilah Cole has quickly established itself as a standout in contemporary YA fantasy literature.

The story unfolds in the Kingdom of Jeosia, where Faron serves as part of the Order of the Flame, an elite group of fire wielders who protect the kingdom and its royal family. Ten years after a magical accident resulted in her sister Elara’s exile and their mother’s death, Faron’s carefully reconstructed life begins to unravel. When an ancient goddess named Decay breaks free from imprisonment and threatens to destroy the kingdom, Faron must confront her past mistakes and join forces with her estranged sister to save their world.

Cole crafts a narrative that seamlessly blends action, political intrigue, and emotional depth, asking profound questions about forgiveness, justice, and the price of protection in a society built on inequality. This is not merely a tale of magical adventure, but a nuanced exploration of family bonds tested by tragedy and the moral complexities of serving a flawed system.

Plot Summary and Key Elements

The narrative of “So Let Them Burn” begins with Faron, now twenty years old, serving in the prestigious Order of the Flame, protecting the royal family with her fire magic. She’s spent a decade burying her grief and guilt over a terrible accident that resulted in her sister’s exile and her mother’s death. As one of the kingdom’s most powerful fire wielders, Faron has devoted herself to her duty, finding purpose in protecting the royal family and maintaining Jeosia’s stability.

The kingdom of Jeosia exists in a delicate balance with three goddesses: Life, Death, and Decay. According to ancient lore, when humans arrived in this land, they struck a bargain with these deities. Life and Death would maintain the natural order, while Decay—the most dangerous of the three—would be imprisoned to prevent her from destroying everything in her path. This imprisonment requires regular sacrifices to maintain.

The plot accelerates when signs of Decay’s awakening begin to manifest throughout the kingdom. Strange magical disturbances, withering crops, and mysterious illnesses signal that the goddess’s bindings are weakening. When the royal palace is attacked during a crucial ceremony, Faron discovers that her sister Elara has returned from exile with a warning: Decay is breaking free, and she intends to exact vengeance on the kingdom that has imprisoned her for centuries.

Forced to work together despite their fractured relationship, Faron and Elara embark on a dangerous journey to strengthen the magical barriers holding Decay and discover why they’re failing. Their quest reveals uncomfortable truths about Jeosia’s history and the true nature of the bargain with the goddesses. As they travel through increasingly dangerous landscapes affected by Decay’s growing influence, they must confront not only external threats but the painful history between them.

Key plot elements include:

• The Sisters’ Reconciliation: Faron and Elara must navigate their complex feelings of betrayal, abandonment, and guilt while working together to save the kingdom.
• Royal Deception: The sisters uncover disturbing secrets about the royal family and realize the sacrifices to maintain Decay’s prison have been more sinister than publicly acknowledged.
• Divine Intervention: As Decay grows stronger, both Life and Death become involved in the conflict, forcing Faron to question which deity truly has humanity’s best interests at heart.
• Revolution and Justice: The sisters find themselves at the center of a growing resistance movement that seeks to overthrow the corrupt royal system and establish a more equitable society.
• Magical Evolution: Faron must learn to harness her fire magic in new ways, while Elara reveals magical abilities developed during her exile that challenge everything Faron thought she knew about their world’s magical system.

The novel builds to a climactic confrontation where Faron must make impossible choices between duty, family, and justice—all while facing the unleashed wrath of a goddess with legitimate grievances against humanity.

Main Characters and Their Development

Faron – The protagonist and a powerful fire wielder serving in the Order of the Flame. At the story’s beginning, Faron is defined by her unwavering loyalty to the crown and her determination to atone for past mistakes through service. Her character arc centers on questioning authority, confronting her guilt over her family’s tragedy, and recognizing that protection without justice is merely another form of control. Faron’s development is marked by her gradual shift from blindly following orders to making moral decisions based on her own values, even when they conflict with her sworn duties.

Elara – Faron’s estranged sister who was exiled following the magical accident that killed their mother. Where Faron chose integration into the system, Elara returned with revolutionary ideals and a deeper understanding of the kingdom’s corrupted foundation. Her decade away has transformed her from the impulsive younger sister into a strategic leader with her own network of allies and unique magical abilities. Elara’s character provides a counterbalance to Faron’s institutional loyalty, challenging her sister to see beyond the propaganda they were raised with.

Decay – One of the three goddesses and the primary antagonistic force. However, Cole brilliantly develops Decay beyond a simple villain. As the story progresses, readers come to understand her as a complex figure who represents necessary destruction and renewal in the natural order. Her imprisonment has created imbalance, and her vengeance, while terrible, stems from legitimate grievances. Decay serves as both adversary and mirror, reflecting humanity’s fear of change and tendency toward unjust solutions to complex problems.

Queen Omiata – The calculating ruler of Jeosia who presents herself as a protector while maintaining a system built on hidden sacrifices. Her character represents the corrupting nature of power and the dangers of placing stability above justice. Through Queen Omiata, Cole explores how leaders can manipulate noble sentiments like protection and security to maintain oppressive systems.

Riven – A member of the Order of the Flame alongside Faron and her closest friend. Riven’s unwavering loyalty to the established order creates increasing tension with Faron as she begins to question their role. His character development reveals the difficulty of maintaining personal relationships when fundamental values diverge.

The Goddesses Life and Death – These divine entities play crucial roles as the story unfolds, with their own agendas and perspectives on the balance of power. Through these characters, Cole explores themes of natural order, divine intervention, and the consequences of humans attempting to control forces beyond their understanding.

Cole demonstrates exceptional skill in crafting multidimensional characters whose personal journeys reflect the novel’s broader themes. Each character undergoes significant transformation throughout the narrative, with their development intricately tied to the novel’s exploration of power, responsibility, and the true meaning of justice.

World-Building and Setting

Kamilah Cole has created a richly textured world in “So Let Them Burn” that draws inspiration from Jamaican cultural elements while establishing its own unique identity. The Kingdom of Jeosia serves as the primary setting—a tropical realm where lush landscapes contrast with increasingly blighted areas affected by Decay’s growing influence.

Magical System:
The magic system in Cole’s world is elemental in nature but with distinctive rules and limitations that create genuine stakes for the characters. Fire wielders like Faron can summon and control flames, but their abilities depend on both innate talent and rigorous training. The novel establishes clear costs for using magic—physical exhaustion, the risk of losing control, and potentially dire consequences when power exceeds skill.

Other magical elements include:

• The Goddesses’ Domains: Each goddess controls specific aspects of the natural world, with their powers manifesting in distinctive ways.
• Magical Artifacts: Ancient objects with specific powers that play crucial roles in maintaining or breaking Decay’s imprisonment.
• Boundary Magic: Spells and rituals that create, maintain, or destroy magical barriers between realms.

Social Structure:
Cole depicts a stratified society where power and privilege are unequally distributed:

• The Royal Family: At the apex of society, claiming divine right to rule based on their role in maintaining the bargain with the goddesses.
• The Order of the Flame: Elite fire wielders who serve as protectors of the realm and the royal family, enjoying significant privilege while also serving as tools of the monarchy.
• The Merchant Class: Citizens who have prospered through trade and commerce, some supporting the status quo while others secretly fund resistance movements.
• The Common Folk: Those who bear the greatest burden of the kingdom’s policies, particularly in times of hardship.
• The Exiled: People banished from society who have formed their own communities beyond the kingdom’s borders, developing alternative social structures.

Cultural Elements:
The Jamaican influence manifests in multiple aspects of the world-building:

• Language patterns and expressions that echo Jamaican Patois
• Food descriptions featuring Caribbean staples
• Festivals and ceremonies reminiscent of Jamaican cultural celebrations
• Architecture and environmental descriptions that evoke the tropical setting of Jamaica

Historical Context:
Cole develops a rich historical backdrop that informs current events:

• The Original Bargain: The founding myth of how humans negotiated with the goddesses upon arriving in this land
• Cycles of Rebellion: References to previous attempts to challenge the royal order
• Historical Figures: Legends of past heroes and villains whose actions continue to influence present-day Jeosia

The world of Jeosia feels lived-in and dynamic, with its own internal logic, historical tensions, and cultural practices. Cole excels at revealing this world organically through the characters’ experiences rather than through exposition, allowing readers to discover the setting’s complexities alongside Faron as her understanding expands beyond the official narratives she was raised with.

What Makes “So Let Them Burn” Stand Out?

“So Let Them Burn” distinguishes itself through its nuanced exploration of morally complex themes, its culturally rich world-building inspired by Jamaican elements, and its sophisticated approach to sisterhood that transcends typical YA fantasy tropes. The novel presents fire magic as both destructive and protective, mirrors real-world power dynamics through its fantasy setting, and centers non-Western cultural perspectives in ways that expand the genre’s horizons. Additionally, Cole’s character development creates authentically flawed protagonists whose growth feels earned rather than prescribed, making this debut novel an exceptional contribution to contemporary YA fantasy.

As avid readers and reviewers at Readlogy, we’ve observed that while the YA fantasy market is increasingly diverse, few novels manage to combine innovative world-building, complex character development, and thematic depth as successfully as Cole’s debut. Let’s explore the elements that make this novel truly exceptional.

Unique Themes and Messages

“So Let Them Burn” transcends typical YA fantasy fare by exploring sophisticated themes with remarkable nuance:

Sisterhood Beyond Simplistic Reconciliation:
Unlike many YA narratives that treat broken family relationships as obstacles easily overcome through a pivotal conversation, Cole portrays sisterhood as a complex bond damaged by betrayal, shaped by divergent life experiences, and requiring genuine effort to rebuild. Faron and Elara’s relationship evolves through difficult conversations, shared danger, and the gradual recognition of how they’ve both changed during their years apart. Their reconciliation isn’t portrayed as inevitable but as a deliberate choice requiring vulnerability and compromise.

Moral Ambiguity in Protection Systems:
The novel provocatively examines how systems ostensibly designed to protect can become mechanisms of oppression. Faron’s position in the Order of the Flame initially seems honorable—she uses her gifts to defend others. However, as the narrative unfolds, Cole reveals how protection without consent or transparency becomes another form of control. This exploration resonates powerfully in contemporary conversations about policing, security, and the balance between safety and freedom.

Divine Retribution vs. Justice:
Through the goddess Decay, Cole interrogates the distinction between vengeance and justice. Decay’s wrath is terrifying but rooted in legitimate grievances about her imprisonment and the natural order’s disruption. This creates a morally complex scenario where readers must question whether Decay’s actions are merely destructive or a necessary correction to a fundamentally unjust system. This nuanced portrayal avoids simplistic villainization and instead presents antagonistic forces with comprehensible motivations.

Intergenerational Trauma and Responsibility:
The novel depicts how the consequences of past decisions cascade through generations. The original bargain with the goddesses created temporary stability but established patterns of sacrifice and deception that corrupted Jeosian society over time. Through Faron’s journey, Cole explores how individuals must reckon with inherited systems while taking responsibility for creating more just alternatives, rather than merely perpetuating problematic traditions.

Fire as Metaphor for Transformative Power:
Cole’s use of fire magic transcends simple pyrotechnics to become a rich metaphor for power that can either destroy or transform. Faron must learn that containing her fire—her passion, rage, and power—isn’t always virtuous. Sometimes controlled destruction is necessary for renewal, mirroring real-world revolutionary movements and personal growth that requires burning away outdated beliefs.

These thematic explorations are woven seamlessly into the narrative without becoming didactic. Cole trusts her readers to engage with moral complexity rather than providing simplistic answers to the difficult questions she raises about power, protection, and justice.

Writing Style and Narrative Techniques

Kamilah Cole’s writing style combines visceral imagery, emotionally resonant prose, and skillful pacing that keeps readers engaged throughout the novel’s 416 pages. Her narrative techniques demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of storytelling craft that’s impressive for a debut novelist.

Sensory-Rich Descriptions:
Cole excels at immersive descriptions that engage multiple senses:

• Visual imagery that captures both the beauty and terror of fire magic
• Tactile descriptions that make readers feel the heat of flames or the oppressive humidity of Jeosia’s climate
• Auditory elements that bring scenes to life through specific sounds of markets, battles, or whispered conversations
• Olfactory details that evoke the distinctive scents of Jamaican-inspired foods, smoke, and tropical vegetation

This sensory approach creates a richly textured reading experience that helps readers feel genuinely transported to Cole’s fantasy world.

Balanced Pacing:
The novel demonstrates exceptional control of rhythm, alternating between:

• Action sequences with tight, urgent prose that propels readers through dangerous encounters
• Contemplative moments where characters process emotional revelations or moral dilemmas
• World-building segments that expand readers’ understanding of Jeosia without halting narrative momentum
• Character development scenes that deepen relationships through meaningful dialogue and shared experiences

This varied pacing prevents the common fantasy pitfall of either exhausting readers with non-stop action or boring them with excessive exposition.

Dual Timeline Structure:
Cole employs a dual timeline approach, weaving flashbacks to the sisters’ childhood and the fateful accident throughout the main narrative. This technique serves multiple purposes:

• Gradually revealing the full truth of what happened ten years ago
• Contrasting the sisters’ close childhood relationship with their current estrangement
• Building suspense by parceling out crucial information at strategic intervals
• Demonstrating how past events continue to influence present choices

These timeline shifts are handled with clarity, using distinct markers to orient readers while maintaining narrative flow.

Voice and Dialogue:
Cole crafts distinctive voices for her characters, with dialogue that:

• Reflects each character’s unique personality and background
• Incorporates Jamaican-inspired expressions and speech patterns authentically
• Reveals character through conversational styles rather than exposition
• Employs subtext to communicate unspoken tensions and connections

This attention to voice creates characters who feel like individuals rather than vehicles for plot advancement.

Interior Monologue:
As the novel unfolds from Faron’s first-person perspective, Cole masterfully uses interior monologue to:

• Track the protagonist’s shifting understanding of her world
• Reveal conflicts between Faron’s stated beliefs and her deeper feelings
• Create dramatic irony when Faron misinterprets situations readers can see more clearly
• Show character growth through evolving thought patterns rather than explicit statements

This technique creates psychological depth while maintaining Faron’s distinctive voice throughout the narrative.

Cole’s technical skill supports the novel’s thematic ambitions, creating a reading experience that is both emotionally satisfying and intellectually stimulating—a balance that distinguishes the most memorable works in the fantasy genre.

Cultural Influences and Representation

One of the most significant contributions “So Let Them Burn” makes to the YA fantasy landscape is its authentic integration of Jamaican cultural elements and its thoughtful approach to representation. Rather than using cultural elements as mere set dressing, Cole weaves Jamaican influences into the fundamental fabric of her world.

Jamaican Cultural Elements:
The Jamaican influences manifest in multiple dimensions of the storytelling:

• Language patterns that echo Jamaican Patois in dialogue and naming conventions
• Food descriptions featuring recognizable Caribbean dishes and ingredients, used not just as cultural markers but as meaningful elements in rituals and relationship-building
• Social structures that reflect aspects of Jamaican history and community organization
• Environmental details that capture Jamaica’s tropical climate, flora, and fauna
• Fashion and adornment drawing from Caribbean aesthetic traditions
• Music and celebration inspired by Jamaican cultural practices
• Folklore elements that parallel Jamaican mythological figures and storytelling traditions

These elements feel organic to the world rather than superficially applied, creating a fantasy setting that diverges refreshingly from the medieval European templates that have dominated the genre.

Authentic Representation:
Cole’s approach to representation goes beyond simply including diverse characters to thoughtfully exploring:

• Complex identity formation through characters navigating their roles within flawed social systems
• Varied perspectives within communities rather than presenting monolithic cultural viewpoints
• Intersections of power and privilege as characters occupy different positions in Jeosia’s hierarchy
• Cultural practices as living traditions that evolve rather than static elements frozen in time
• Characters defined by more than their marginalization with full emotional lives and personal motivations

This nuanced approach creates representation that feels authentic rather than tokenistic, allowing readers from similar backgrounds to recognize elements of their experiences while providing windows into these experiences for others.

Expanding Fantasy’s Cultural Imagination:
By centering non-Western cultural perspectives, Cole contributes to an important evolution in fantasy literature:

• Demonstrating that compelling fantasy can be built on diverse cultural foundations
• Challenging assumptions about what fantasy “should” look like
• Creating entry points for readers from underrepresented backgrounds to connect with the genre
• Enriching the fantasy landscape with fresh mythological frameworks and cultural references

This contribution is particularly significant in the YA category, where readers are forming their understanding of what the fantasy genre encompasses and who belongs within it.

Cole accomplishes this cultural integration without exoticizing Jamaica or falling into explanatory modes that would suggest she’s writing primarily for a white audience. The cultural elements exist naturally within the narrative, respected and normalized rather than treated as unusual or requiring special explanation.

What Are the Strengths of “So Let Them Burn”?

“So Let Them Burn” demonstrates exceptional strengths in its character development, particularly the nuanced portrayal of sisterhood that avoids simplistic reconciliation narratives; its innovative magic system that blends emotional resonance with clear rules and consequences; its thematic depth that explores morally complex questions about justice, protection, and power; its cultural authenticity that infuses Jamaican influences throughout the worldbuilding; and its masterful tension-building across personal, political, and supernatural conflicts. These elements combine to create a debut novel of rare sophistication and emotional impact.

As our team at Readlogy analyzed this remarkable debut, we identified several areas where Cole’s work particularly excels, setting a high standard for contemporary YA fantasy.

Character Development and Relationships

The character development in “So Let Them Burn” stands out for its psychological depth and emotional authenticity. Cole creates characters who evolve organically in response to changing circumstances rather than following predictable arcs.

Faron’s Transformative Journey:
The protagonist’s development is handled with particular sophistication:

• Starting from a place of rigid devotion to duty and suppressed emotion
• Gradually confronting her unresolved grief and guilt over her mother’s death
• Questioning the institutions she’s devoted herself to as their flaws become apparent
• Learning to integrate her past mistakes into her identity without being defined by them
• Developing moral autonomy rather than simply transferring loyalty from one authority to another

This evolution feels earned rather than imposed by plot requirements, with Faron making choices that sometimes surprise but always remain true to her developing character.

The Sister Relationship:
The heart of the novel lies in the complex relationship between Faron and Elara:

• Their estrangement emerges from a believable combination of tragic circumstances and institutional pressures
• Their reconnection is neither immediate nor complete, requiring sustained effort from both sides
• Their differing perspectives on the kingdom create genuine ideological conflicts beyond personal grievances
• Their shared history provides authentic moments of connection amid tension
• Their reconciliation process acknowledges that some breaches can be healed but not erased

Cole avoids the common pitfall of sacrificing one sister’s agency to advance the other’s story, allowing both women to maintain distinct identities and motivations throughout.

Secondary Character Depth:
Even characters with limited page time receive thoughtful development:

• Riven’s conflicted loyalty between his friend Faron and his unwavering belief in the Order
• Queen Omiata’s complex mixture of genuine concern for her kingdom and willingness to maintain oppressive systems
• The goddesses portrayed with distinct personalities and understandable, if sometimes terrifying, motivations
• Resistance members presented as individuals with varying degrees of radicalism rather than a monolithic group

This attention to secondary characters creates a world populated by people rather than plot functions, enhancing the novel’s emotional resonance.

Relationship Dynamics:
Cole demonstrates particular skill in portraying the evolution of relationships under pressure:

• Trust building gradually through shared experience rather than declarations
• Power dynamics shifting as characters gain new information or abilities
• Communication patterns reflecting character growth or regression
• Relationships serving as vehicles for character development without becoming their sole purpose

The result is a web of connections that feels authentically complex rather than constructed to serve narrative convenience.

This sophisticated approach to character development makes Faron’s journey emotionally compelling while supporting the novel’s broader thematic explorations of responsibility, identity, and moral growth in the face of systemic injustice.

World-Building Excellence

The world-building in “So Let Them Burn” demonstrates exceptional creativity and internal consistency, creating a setting that feels simultaneously fresh and lived-in. Cole builds her world with attention to historical, cultural, and ecological dimensions that make Jeosia feel like a place that could exist beyond the pages.

Mythology and Religious System:
The novel’s theological framework provides a strong foundation for the narrative:

• A pantheon with clearly defined domains and personalities
• Complex relationships between divine figures that mirror human family dynamics
• Theological history that shapes current political realities
• Religious practices integrated into daily life rather than separated from it
• Varying interpretations of divine will across different social groups

This religious system provides both plot motivation and thematic resonance without reducing divine figures to simple plot devices.

Political Systems and Power Structures:
Cole crafts a convincing political landscape:

• Clear hierarchies with historical justifications
• Institutional structures like the Order of the Flame with established traditions and internal politics
• Power distributed unevenly across geographical regions and social classes
• Resistance movements with varying methods and objectives
• International relationships hinted at through references to trade and diplomacy

These political elements create a world where events have logical consequences and characters operate within believable constraints.

Environmental Worldbuilding:
The physical environment is rendered with exceptional detail:

• Distinct ecological zones affected differently by the goddesses’ influence
• Climate patterns that influence cultural practices and architectural styles
• Natural resources that shape economic activities and power dynamics
• Environmental changes that signal plot developments
• Landscapes that reflect the kingdom’s history and current challenges

This attention to environmental factors creates a setting that feels grounded despite its fantastical elements.

Cultural Detail:
The Jamaican-inspired cultural elements are integrated throughout multiple aspects of the world:

• Food culture featuring specific dishes and ingredients
• Music and celebration traditions
• Clothing and adornment styles
• Family structures and naming conventions
• Linguistic patterns and expressions

These details create a rich cultural context that informs character behavior and societal norms rather than serving as superficial decoration.

Magical Infrastructure:
Cole develops not just magical abilities but the social and physical infrastructure supporting them:

• Training systems for developing magical talents
• Architectural elements designed to channel or contain magical forces
• Magical technology integrated into everyday life
• Historical evolution of magical understanding
• Varying approaches to magic across different communities

This systematic approach to magic creates a sense that the supernatural elements follow consistent rules within this world.

The excellence of Cole’s world-building lies not just in these individual elements but in how they interact to create a coherent whole. Political decisions have environmental consequences; religious beliefs shape cultural practices; magical systems influence social hierarchies. This interconnectedness creates a world that feels organically developed rather than assembled from disparate fantasy elements.

Pacing and Plot Structure

Cole demonstrates remarkable skill in pacing and plot structure, maintaining tension throughout the novel while allowing necessary space for character development and world-building. The novel’s structure creates a propulsive reading experience that balances urgency with emotional depth.

Effective Opening:
The novel begins with immediate tension that establishes key elements:

• Faron in her role as protector, demonstrating her magical abilities
• Hints of her troubled past and emotional suppression
• The social and political context of Jeosia
• The looming threat that will drive the main conflict

This opening efficiently introduces readers to the protagonist and her world while creating questions that propel them into the story.

Rising Action with Meaningful Plateaus:
The plot escalates through carefully structured sequences:

• Action scenes that advance the external threat of Decay’s awakening
• Revelatory moments that expand Faron’s understanding of her world
• Character interactions that deepen relationships and complicate loyalties
• Strategic plateaus that allow readers to process information before the next escalation

This rhythm prevents both exhaustion from constant high tension and boredom from excessive downtime.

Dual Timeline Management:
Cole skillfully weaves past and present narratives:

• Flashbacks placed at strategically significant moments
• Past revelations that recontextualize present actions
• Emotional parallels between timelines that enhance thematic resonance
• Gradual unveiling of the sisters’ shared trauma

This approach creates two complementary tension arcs that enhance rather than interrupt each other.

Multiple Conflict Scales:
The plot operates effectively across different scales of conflict:

• Personal: Faron’s internal struggle with guilt and identity
• Interpersonal: The damaged relationship between the sisters
• Institutional: Faron’s growing disillusionment with the Order and monarchy
• Societal: The kingdom’s unequal distribution of sacrifice and protection
• Cosmic: The divine conflict involving the goddesses

These nested conflicts create multilayered stakes that appeal to different reader interests while reinforcing the novel’s central themes.

Subverted Expectations:
Cole maintains tension partly through thoughtful subversion of genre expectations:

• Character alliances shift in ways that surprise but remain consistent with established motivations
• The true nature of the threat evolves beyond initial understanding
• Apparent solutions reveal unintended consequences
• Victory conditions change as characters gain new perspectives
• Standard fantasy tropes are acknowledged then complicated

These subversions prevent the plot from feeling predictable while respecting genre conventions enough to satisfy fantasy readers.

Satisfying Conclusion with Future Potential:
The novel’s resolution achieves a delicate balance:

• Providing emotional closure to central character arcs
• Resolving immediate threats while acknowledging ongoing challenges
• Suggesting future developments without relying on cliffhangers
• Reinforcing central themes through the nature of the resolution
• Leaving space for character growth in potential sequels

This approach creates a satisfying standalone reading experience while establishing potential for a series.

Cole’s plotting demonstrates sophisticated understanding of narrative structure, creating a story that feels both carefully crafted and organically developed from character choices and world mechanics.

Thematic Depth and Relevance

“So Let Them Burn” distinguishes itself through thematic explorations that resonate with contemporary issues while remaining true to its fantasy setting. Cole weaves complex ideas throughout the narrative without sacrificing entertainment value or allowing themes to overwhelm character and plot.

Justice vs. Order:
The novel thoughtfully examines the tension between maintaining social stability and pursuing genuine justice:

• The Order of the Flame maintains peace through intimidation and force
• The royal family justifies questionable practices as necessary for protection
• Characters must decide whether a flawed system deserves loyalty
• The resistance movement raises questions about the ethics of disruption
• The ending suggests that true justice may require fundamental restructuring rather than reform

This exploration resonates with contemporary conversations about institutional change while avoiding simplistic solutions.

Sacrifice and Who Bears It:
Cole investigates how societies distribute sacrifice unequally:

• The royal family’s claims about sharing burdens are contradicted by their privileged position
• Commoners disproportionately suffer from policies created by elites
• Protection systems often prioritize powerful individuals over vulnerable communities
• Characters question whether any system is worth preserving if it requires ongoing injustice
• Divine beings and humans have different understandings of acceptable sacrifice

This thematic thread creates powerful parallels to real-world discussions about social inequality and who bears the cost of maintaining societal structures.

Environmental Balance and Consequences:
The novel incorporates sophisticated environmental themes:

• The imprisonment of Decay creates short-term benefit but long-term instability
• Natural processes of destruction and renewal are necessary for healthy ecosystems
• Human attempts to control nature often backfire
• Environmental damage affects vulnerable populations first
• Restoration requires acknowledging rather than avoiding natural cycles

These elements connect the fantasy narrative to urgent contemporary environmental concerns without becoming didactic.

Trauma and Healing:
Cole portrays trauma and recovery with remarkable nuance:

• Characters demonstrate realistic symptoms of traumatic experiences
• Healing is portrayed as an ongoing process rather than a definitive event
• Different characters process similar traumas in varied ways
• Institutional contexts can either support or hinder recovery
• Confronting traumatic memories is necessary but insufficient for healing

This approach creates psychologically authentic character arcs while exploring broader questions about collective trauma and societal healing.

Truth and Historical Narrative:
The novel examines how official histories shape current realities:

• The founding myth of Jeosia obscures uncomfortable truths
• Characters must reconcile cherished beliefs with newly discovered facts
• Different communities maintain alternative historical interpretations
• Access to information is controlled as a means of maintaining power
• Revealing suppressed truths becomes an act of resistance

This exploration of historical truth has clear relevance to contemporary discussions about whose stories are centered and whose are marginalized.

Cole’s thematic work is particularly impressive because these complex ideas emerge organically from character experiences and world mechanics rather than being imposed through heavy-handed messaging. The novel invites readers to consider difficult questions without prescribing specific answers, respecting their intelligence while providing multiple perspectives to consider.

What Are Some Criticisms of “So Let Them Burn”?

While “So Let Them Burn” stands as an impressive debut, it’s not without elements that might benefit from refinement. Some readers might find the early pacing challenging as Cole establishes her complex world and magical system. The novel occasionally contains expositional passages that, while necessary for world-building, could be more seamlessly integrated. Additionally, certain secondary characters would benefit from further development, and some plot resolutions might feel rushed in comparison to the careful buildup. However, these minor criticisms are largely overshadowed by the novel’s considerable strengths and represent natural areas for growth as Cole continues her promising career.

At Readlogy, we believe in providing balanced reviews that acknowledge areas for improvement even in books we greatly admire. Let’s examine some potential criticisms readers might have of “So Let Them Burn.”

Pacing Challenges in Early Chapters

The beginning of “So Let Them Burn” requires patient engagement from readers as Cole establishes her complex world and characters:

• Information density: The first few chapters introduce numerous elements simultaneously—Faron’s position in the Order, her traumatic history, the kingdom’s political structure, and the magical system.
• Delayed main conflict: While early tensions exist, the central threat of Decay’s awakening takes time to fully materialize.
• Extended worldbuilding: Necessary background about Jeosia’s history and the goddesses requires exposition that can slow initial momentum.
• Character relationship groundwork: Establishing Faron’s existing relationships before introducing Elara creates a sense of delayed plot movement.

Readers accustomed to immediate action might find this deliberate setup less engaging, though the investment ultimately pays off as the story accelerates. Cole could potentially have integrated some worldbuilding more gradually throughout the narrative or introduced action elements earlier to hook readers more immediately.

Occasional Exposition Heavy Passages

While Cole generally excels at natural world-building, there are moments when information delivery becomes more prominent than might be ideal:

• Historical background sometimes delivered through lengthy explanations rather than organically revealed through action
• Magical system details occasionally explained directly rather than demonstrated through use
• Political context sometimes provided through obvious exposition rather than character experience
• Divine mythology presented in blocks that temporarily pause narrative momentum

These expositions provide crucial context for understanding the story but occasionally create distance between readers and the immediate narrative. More consistently integrating this information through action, dialogue, or shorter distributed revelations might maintain immersion more effectively.

Underdeveloped Secondary Characters

While the main characters receive excellent development, some secondary figures remain somewhat underdeveloped:

• Order members beyond Faron and Riven sometimes blend together without distinctive personalities
• Resistance figures occasionally function more as plot devices than fully realized characters
• Royal advisors remain somewhat generic despite their narrative importance
• Common citizens of Jeosia are often referred to collectively rather than through specific representatives

This limitation is understandable given the novel’s focus on Faron and Elara’s relationship, but expanding the development of key secondary characters would create an even richer narrative tapestry and provide more varied perspectives on the central conflicts.

Some Rushed Resolutions

The novel’s conclusion, while satisfying overall, contains elements that receive less development than their setup might warrant:

• Certain political consequences of major revelations are addressed somewhat briefly
• Relationship resolutions beyond the central sisterhood sometimes feel accelerated
• Some magical developments occur with limited explanation of their mechanisms
• Societal changes are suggested rather than fully explored

These accelerated resolutions are likely the result of maintaining reasonable length and pacing for a debut novel, but some readers might wish for more extended exploration of these elements, particularly given the careful groundwork laid earlier in the narrative.

Familiar Fantasy Elements

While Cole’s world is distinctive in many ways, some elements draw on recognizable fantasy conventions:

• The chosen one narrative aspects surrounding Faron’s exceptional magical abilities
• The secret heritage revelations that impact character identity
• The rebellion against corrupt authority storyline
• The divine intervention driving plot developments

Cole generally subverts or complicates these tropes in interesting ways, but readers very familiar with fantasy literature might notice these conventional foundations beneath the novel’s innovations. This familiarity provides accessibility for genre fans but occasionally reduces surprise.

It’s important to note that these criticisms represent areas for potential growth rather than fundamental flaws. They’re the kind of refinements that often distinguish a promising debut from later, more polished works by the same author, and they don’t significantly detract from the novel’s considerable achievements in character, theme, and world-building.

Who Should Read “So Let Them Burn”?

“So Let Them Burn” will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with cultural depth and moral complexity. Fans of authors like Tomi Adeyemi, R.F. Kuang, and N.K. Jemisin will find similar attention to cultural specificity and systemic critique. Readers interested in fresh perspectives in fantasy literature, complex female protagonists, inventive magic systems, and stories exploring justice and power will find this novel especially rewarding. Anyone seeking YA fantasy that balances exciting plot developments with thoughtful thematic exploration should consider this book a must-read addition to their collection.

At Readlogy, we believe in matching readers with books that will resonate with their specific interests and preferences. Let’s explore who would find “So Let Them Burn” particularly compelling.

Target Audience Demographics

Age Range and Reading Level:
While marketed as young adult fiction, “So Let Them Burn” offers complexity that appeals across age groups:

• Teenage readers (14+) will connect with themes of identity formation and questioning authority
• New adult readers (18-25) will appreciate the sophisticated treatment of sisterhood and institutional critique
• Adult fantasy readers will find the world-building and thematic depth satisfying
• Reading level accommodates advanced teen readers while remaining accessible to casual adult readers

The novel contains moderate violence and complex emotional situations but avoids explicit content that would limit its appropriateness for younger readers.

Genre Preferences:
The book will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy:

• Fantasy with social commentary that uses fantastical elements to explore real-world issues
• Character-driven narratives where emotional and psychological development is as important as plot
• Culturally diverse world-building that moves beyond European medieval settings
• Female-centered stories featuring complex women with agency and distinct personalities
• Family drama integrated with adventure elements
• Political fantasy examining systems of power and resistance

Readers who prioritize these elements in their fantasy reading will find “So Let Them Burn” especially satisfying.

Comparative Author Appeal

Fans of the following authors would likely enjoy Cole’s debut:

• Tomi Adeyemi (Children of Blood and Bone): Both authors create culturally rich fantasy worlds inspired by specific cultural traditions while examining systems of power.
• R.F. Kuang (The Poppy War): Readers who appreciate Kuang’s unflinching look at institutional corruption and the personal cost of resistance will find similar themes in Cole’s work.
• N.K. Jemisin (The Fifth Season): Jemisin’s exploration of environmental themes and societal oppression parallels Cole’s approach, though Cole’s work is less dark overall.
• Dhonielle Clayton (The Belles): Clayton’s examination of beauty and power in a fantasy setting shares Cole’s interest in how societies construct and maintain hierarchies.
• Tracy Deonn (Legendborn): Both authors blend contemporary sensibilities with folklore elements and center complex female protagonists.
• Rebecca Roanhorse (Black Sun): Roanhorse’s commitment to non-European cultural influences and political intrigue resonates with Cole’s approach.

Readers who enjoy these established authors will find familiar elements executed with Cole’s distinctive voice and perspective.

Interest-Based Appeal

Beyond demographics and author comparisons, “So Let Them Burn” will particularly resonate with readers interested in:

Cultural Exploration:

• Those seeking fantasy that draws from Caribbean cultural elements
• Readers interested in how cultural practices inform fantasy world-building
• People looking for authentic representation of non-Western perspectives

Relationship Dynamics:

• Readers who appreciate complex sisterhood portrayals
• Those interested in how family relationships endure despite trauma and separation
• People who enjoy exploring the tension between personal relationships and societal obligations

Magical Systems:

• Fantasy fans who prefer magic with clear rules and limitations
• Readers interested in elemental magic with psychological dimensions
• Those who enjoy seeing how magical systems shape societies

Moral Philosophy:

• Readers who appreciate nuanced exploration of justice vs. stability
• Those interested in questions of collective vs. individual responsibility
• People who enjoy stories that challenge binary notions of good and evil

Literary Quality:

• Readers who value stylistic craft alongside compelling plots
• Those who appreciate thematic depth in genre fiction
• People who enjoy prose that balances accessibility with literary merit

“So Let Them Burn” offers sufficient depth and complexity to reward readers with these specific interests while remaining accessible to those simply seeking an engaging fantasy adventure with memorable characters.

What’s the Final Verdict on “So Let Them Burn”?

“So Let Them Burn” earns 4.5 out of 5 stars, establishing Kamilah Cole as an exceptional new voice in YA fantasy. This debut novel brilliantly combines Jamaican-inspired worldbuilding, complex character development, and thematic depth that explores justice, protection, and sisterhood. While occasional pacing issues and some underdeveloped secondary characters prevent a perfect score, these minor flaws are vastly outweighed by Cole’s remarkable strengths in cultural authenticity, emotional resonance, and moral complexity. We highly recommend this novel to readers seeking fantasy that entertains while thoughtfully examining power dynamics and familial bonds. “So Let Them Burn” isn’t just a promising debut—it’s an outstanding fantasy novel by any standard that signals the arrival of an author poised to make significant contributions to the genre.

Our team at Readlogy approaches all reviews with rigorous analytical standards, and we’re pleased to provide our final assessment of this remarkable debut.

Rating and Recommendation

Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

This rating reflects our assessment across multiple dimensions:

• World-building: 5/5 – Exceptional cultural depth and internal consistency
• Character Development: 5/5 – Nuanced, authentic character evolution, particularly for the sisters
• Plot and Pacing: 4/5 – Strong overall with occasional early pacing challenges
• Thematic Depth: 5/5 – Sophisticated exploration of complex themes
• Writing Quality: 4.5/5 – Excellent prose with occasional exposition-heavy passages
• Originality: 4.5/5 – Fresh cultural perspective with some familiar fantasy frameworks
• Emotional Impact: 5/5 – Powerful emotional resonance throughout

We highly recommend “So Let Them Burn” to:

• Readers seeking culturally diverse fantasy with authentic representation
• Those who appreciate complex female protagonists with agency and depth
• Fantasy fans interested in innovative magical systems with clear consequences
• Readers who enjoy narratives that balance action with emotional and philosophical depth
• Anyone looking for fantasy that thoughtfully examines systems of power and protection

Key Takeaways

Exceptional Debut Performance:
Cole demonstrates remarkable skill for a debut novelist, particularly in:

• Creating psychologically complex characters with believable motivations
• Building a culturally rich world with internal consistency
• Balancing action with meaningful character development
• Integrating thematic exploration without sacrificing entertainment value

These strengths suggest a promising career trajectory with potential for even greater achievements in future works.

Cultural Significance:
“So Let Them Burn” makes important contributions to fantasy literature through:

• Centering Jamaican cultural influences in a genre historically dominated by European-inspired settings
• Demonstrating that culturally specific fantasy can have universal appeal
• Expanding readers’ understanding of what fantasy can encompass
• Creating authentic representation that avoids both tokenism and exoticization

This cultural work extends beyond the novel itself to impact the broader landscape of YA fantasy literature.

Thematic Resonance:
The novel’s explorations of justice, power, and protection offer:

• Nuanced perspectives on complex social issues without simplistic messaging
• Parallels to contemporary discussions about institutional reform
• Thoughtful examination of how individuals navigate flawed systems
• Questions about responsibility that readers can apply to their own contexts

These thematic elements elevate the novel beyond entertainment to provide meaningful engagement with important ideas.

Reader Experience:
The overall reading experience offers:

• Emotional investment in compelling character journeys
• Intellectual engagement with sophisticated themes
• Cultural exposure to perspectives that may be unfamiliar to some readers
• Balanced satisfaction of genre expectations and fresh innovations

This combination creates a reading experience that is simultaneously accessible and challenging in the best ways.

Future Outlook

Cole’s debut establishes high expectations for her future work:

Series Potential:
While “So Let Them Burn” functions well as a standalone novel, it establishes a world with:

• Rich historical background that could support multiple stories
• Political developments with ongoing implications
• Character arcs with room for continued growth
• Magical and divine systems with unexplored aspects

Whether Cole continues this specific story or creates new narratives in this world, the foundation supports compelling future installments.

Author Development:
Based on this debut, readers can reasonably anticipate:

• Continued refinement of Cole’s already impressive technical skills
• Expanded exploration of themes introduced in this work
• Potentially even richer cultural integration as she develops her voice
• Growing influence on the direction of diverse fantasy literature

Cole demonstrates potential to become a significant voice in fantasy literature, particularly in YA fantasy that bridges entertainment and thoughtful social commentary.

In conclusion, “So Let Them Burn” stands as not merely a promising debut but an accomplished novel that would be impressive at any point in an author’s career. It delivers a complete and satisfying story while suggesting exciting possibilities for Cole’s future work. Readers who engage with this novel will find themselves eagerly anticipating whatever Kamilah Cole offers next.