Books › Squire
Squire
336 pages
A sweeping, action-packed coming-of-age tale that dismantles the myth of the benevolent empire.
What it feels like
Reading this graphic novel feels like watching a classic hero's journey slowly turn itself inside out. It starts with the familiar, propulsive thrill of a military training academy, complete with fierce rivalries, grueling tests, and the tentative sparks of found family. But beneath the sun-drenched, Middle Eastern-inspired artwork lies a tense, critical heartbeat. The narrative moves at a brisk, engaging clip, pulling you through dynamic action sequences while quietly layering a profound critique of imperialism and the heavy cost of assimilation. The emotional texture shifts from wide-eyed ambition to a heavy, dread-soaked realization, culminating in a triumphant reclamation of identity. It is a perfect fit for readers who love the camaraderie of academy fantasies but want a sharper, decolonial edge to their epics.
- Mood
- sweeping
- tense
- atmospheric
- triumphant
- Tone
- earnest
- critical
- determined
- hopeful
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- cost of assimilation · anti-imperialism · found family in the ranks · illusion of meritocracy · claiming heritage
- The writing
- Expressive and dynamic, blending sharp, accessible dialogue with sweeping, culturally rich visual storytelling.
- The arc
- From naive ambition and desperate assimilation to painful disillusionment and ultimately, rebellious self-acceptance.
- Who it's for
- Fans of military academy fantasies who crave a sharp, decolonial critique wrapped in a visually stunning coming-of-age adventure.
Content notes
- military violence
- prejudice and xenophobia
- imperialism
- famine mentions
About the book
Aiza has always dreamt of becoming a Knight. It's the highest military honor in the once-great Bayt-Sajji Empire, and as a member of the subjugated Ornu people, Knighthood is her only path to full citizenship. Ravaged by famine and mounting tensions, Bayt-Sajji finds itself on the brink of war once again, so Aiza can finally enlist in the competitive Squire training program.
It's not how she imagined it, though. Aiza must navigate new friendships, rivalries, and rigorous training under the unyielding General Hende, all while hiding her Ornu background. As the pressure mounts, Aiza realizes that the "greater good" that Bayt-Sajji's military promises might not include her, and that the recruits might be in greater danger than she ever imagined.
Aiza will have to choose, once and for all: loyalty to her heart and heritage, or loyalty to the Empire.
Description from Open Library.
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