P. Djèlí Clark’s A Master of Djinn dazzles with its imaginative setting and intricate world-building, set in an alternate 1912 Cairo. Critics praise its unique blend of fantasy and steampunk elements, vibrant characters, and engaging plot. Some note a slightly slow start but commend the story’s rich cultural texture and exciting climax. Overall, a highly recommended read.

A reader who enjoys A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark is likely a fan of genre-blending narratives, combining steampunk, fantasy, and mystery. They may appreciate the alternative historical setting similar to The City of Brass by S. A. Chakraborty or the detective elements found in The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.

In P. Djèlí Clark's A Master of Djinn, Fatma el-Sha’arawi, an agent for Egypt’s Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities, investigates the mysterious incineration of the Hermetic Brotherhood of al-Jahiz by a masked man claiming to be the historical mystic al-Jahiz. As she delves into the case with her new partner Hadia and her lover Siti, Fatma uncovers a plot involving illusion, powerful magical relics, and sinister intentions to disrupt social order. The novel intricately blends elements of steampunk, fantasy, and detective fiction while tackling themes of social justice and racial equality, resonating with contemporary issues.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Suspenseful / Adventurous / Gritty

- A Master of Djinn is P. Djèlí Clark's debut novel, expanding on the universe he created in his award-winning novelette, A Dead Djinn in Cairo.
- The book is set in an alternate 1912 Cairo, blending elements of steampunk, magic, and mystery to create a unique genre often described as "silkpunk."
- P. Djèlí Clark drew inspiration from his own travels and academic background in history to create the vividly detailed and culturally rich setting of the novel.

**Fatma el-Sha’arawi**  
A detective known for her relentless pursuit of investigations and skilled swordsmanship, valuing work over violence and challenging traditional gender roles with her appearance and actions.

**Abigail Worthington**  
An ambitious and manipulative antagonist who leverages societal underestimations of women, comparable to a "femme fatale," aiming to advance her own nationalistic goals through cunning and illusion.

**Siti**  
A character of Nubian heritage, whose inner conflict is mirrored by external challenges; she remains devoted to Fatma, acting as a steadfast and supportive partner throughout their shared journey.

**Hadia**  
A young, intelligent, and capable agent who admires Fatma as a mentor, navigating complex social dynamics and religious devotion while advocating for women's solidarity within her professional environment.

P. Djèlí Clark

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Chapters 1-3

A Master of Djinn Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

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Chapters 7-9

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Chapters 10-12

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Chapters 13-15

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Chapters 16-18

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Chapters 19-21

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Chapters 22-24

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Chapters 25-27

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Chapter 28-Epilogue

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