She was raised in the Middle East until her formative years, when her family swapped the Abu Dhabi desert for the English Peak District hills. This change of climate had a significant impact on her growth—not physically, she’s nearly 6ft—and she learned what it was to be Black in a white world.
Saara knew she was a storyteller from the moment she told her first lie. Though her stories have developed beyond the ramblings of a child, she still appreciates the thrill of a well-told tale.THE FINAL STRIFE is Saara El-Arifi's debut novel, the first part of a trilogy inspired by Ghanaian folklore and Arabian myths.
The Serpent Called Mercy (2025) Roanne Lau "Roanne Lau immerses you into a remarkably vivid world with a gritty underworld that raises the stakes - and your blood pressure. Full of monsters and mayhem, but most importantly, a cast of characters that you can't help but love. An astounding debut."
Daughter of Chaos (2025) (Dark Pantheon , book 1) A S Webb "A.S Webb weaves familiar myths within an intricate plot to great accomplishment succeeding in a story that is both fresh and dynamic. Epic, captivating and spellbinding, Daughter of Chaos takes you on a quest like no other."
Forged by Blood (2023) (Tainted Blood , book 1) Ehigbor Okosun "Ehigbor Okosun has called on the winds of worldbuilding and the gales of great writing to create a tempest of a novel. Forged by Blood is an enchanting tale of sacrifice and power. Found family, mated love and unexpected twists only add to its depth of heart."
Shanghai Immortal (2023) (Lady Jing, book 1) A Y Chao "Shanghai Immortal is a gritty, glittering tale of gods and monsters in a reimagining of 1930s China. The fearsome half-vampire half-deity Lady Jing swaps anger management lessons for a crash course in the mortal realm and you can't help but root for her and the chaos she leaves in her wake. Full of fury, passion, and beauty, this is a debut that will grip you in its fangs and make you bleed-all the while wanting more."
Verge (2023) Nadia Attia "Verge is a story of unity in light of a disunited Kingdom. Attia has written a vibrant and devastating tale of loss and love that strikes a minor melody at your very heart. Halim and Rowena are characters to treasure."
More Perfect (2023) Temi Oh "A spectacular exploration of the power of technology. Upon finishing the final page I was left breathless and bereft. A feat of creativity, written with great heart, this is science fiction at its best."
Godkiller (2023) (Fallen Gods , book 1) Hannah Kaner "Full of fire, each page scalding, Hannah Kaner's GODKILLER is an explosive debut that will leave you reeling."
The Book Eaters (2022) Sunyi Dean "A riveting tale that consumed me as earnestly as I devoured it. Full of grit and humanity, Sunyi Dean expertly weaves the complexities of motherhood, loyalty and found family in a world not far from our own. Dean's debut has already established her as a master of craft. If I were a book eater, this novel would be one to savour."
Theatre of Marvels (2022) Lianne Dillsworth "A story that shines a spotlight into the shadows of the 19th century, while also exploring very relevant themes of identity. So fantastic to read a novel that centres POC in the Victorian era. Loved it!"