I was so exited about this book at first, but as soon as I picked it up into my hands I found it quite hard to get into it.

The main girl - she was such a badass and strong minded, as I found her somewhat annoying. The world and the ranks, the story was in, felt a bit too complicated for so I wished for more clearer story telling.

Later on as I got into the book, I started to like her, tho some moments I wanted to punch her and as I get closer to the end of the book I really didn’t want it to end.

Overall good read !

This book had some wonderful elements to it but unfortunately it just didn't come together with the execution and storytelling.

I liked the cultural aspect. I also liked the age-old concept of heaven vs hell, angels vs demons and thought the author had some more unique ideas of hell. The opening prologue had me very excited and eager to read more. Giada's chapters were definitely the highlight for me.

Unfortunately, although portions of the text were well written, it was choppy and there were issues with convenience and suspension of disbelief. The book also really struggled with pacing and flow, particularly Naledi's chapters.

There were great lulls where nothing would happen, then when something did, it felt very rushed and hard to accept. There was no build up or sense of anticipation.

Naledi's reactions and behaviour to what was occurring were also very jarring. Her immediate acceptance and knowledge of what must have been happening to her on laundry day was very hard to believe as a reader.

I do think this author shows real promise. And I think this book would be much better suited to younger YA readers.

This book was slow starting but once I settled in it was a great read. I loved the characters they were well developed and relatable. I also enjoyed enjoyed the differences between Naledi and Giada's POVs. I was fascinated by what drives them. I look forward to seeing more from this author.

I did struggle a little to settle into this book with the head-hopping at the beginning, but once I did, I enjoyed it. I really loved the way elements of African culture were woven into the story. The characters were well developed and relatable and I enjoyed the contrast between Naledi and Giada's POVs.

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for providing me with this ARC!

this author Jali Henry is new to me, but so glad i picked "Called by the Blessed" up! ... absolutely recommend!

I loved reading this book. I couldn’t put it down. It was awesome. Well worth the read. Thanks to the author.

I am always a sucker for an African fantasy novel! Oh boy did Called by the Blessed do just that!

Called by the Blessed provides a unique and captivating twist on the Underworld beautifully propelled by the dual POVs of Giada and Naledi.

From the intricate worlding to the well-written protagonists, once I started the book I couldn't stop. It was a page-turner for sure. The dramatic adventure is well-balanced with light-hearted humour and romance that makes the novel feel well-rounded and fulfilling. By the end but still has you at the edge of your seat to see what Herny has up her sleeves in the sequel

Seeing how African culture is beautifully entwined into the urban fantasy aspect of the story is amazing. There are not a lot of books out there in the market that comes under this niche of but Herny does a great job in showcasing how it should be done.

My only qualm is that the story is fairly short (291 pages according to my iPad) but for such a short novel Herny does a great job in establishing so much world-building and character progression without it feeling rushed or unfinished. Finger crossed book 2 is a bit longer.

Overall, Called by the Blessed is really a hidden gem of a story and deserves much more attention. Congrats to Herny on writing this story. I can't wait for what happens next!

Thanks to BooksGoSocialfor providing an e-arc (via NetGallery) for an honest review. The review above is that of my own thoughts and opinions

This was my first experience with respect to anything African. The experience was simply amazing as the author guided me through the story as well as the cultural setting in which it is happening. It thrilled me not just to unravel the contents of the book but also to ponder through the imagination of the author. An absolute gem of a book. What I loved the most was the number of African words I got to learn. Looking forward to more books from the author.

It's a good urban fantasy, the world building is interesting but the story didn't keep my attention.
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Ugh I wanted to like this one so bad but I just could not get into it no matter how hard/many times I tried. I ended up not finishing the book which is why I'm giving it 3 stars as nothing I read was problematic in any way

This book was OKay. Just another YA book. It was pretty solid and it was a good ending for the sequel. I just don't think that this is my type of book and I don't think that I will reread this book again.

This was a well written, interesting story. I enjoyed the multiple POVs. There were a few unexpected twists, and the ending wasn't quite what I was expecting, which was a bit disappointing. Nice detailing kept me engaged. It was a quick read overall, and I'm likely to check out the sequel.

As a young adult myself, I thoroughly enjoyed this Young Adult book due to many of its features: its ability to capture heartfelt moments between characters,
the incredibly descriptive imagery of Naledi's home in Africa as well as Heaven and Hell, and most importantly its ability to feel relatable.

The story draws you in and reading in anticipation as it unfolds is incredibly exciting. Whilst reading I began to feel deeply connected with Naledi, Giada and more characters that - after having finished the book - I miss reading and learning about.
The end of the book had me on the edge of my seat wondering what's next in store for the characters. I often wondered after putting the book down how their stories further develop! Would definitely recommend for a fun, exciting and heartfelt read.