While the novel has an overarching narrative, it is made up of several intertwined stories that explore transformation and discovery. Based on the concept of oral tradition, it highlights the nature and fundamentals of truth as the narrator is also unreliable. The world in the stories is drawn from African culture and mythology to create a fantasy that topples the conventions of the genre. This reimagining of Africa incorporates supernatural folklores, fantastical creatures, and magic to highlight the animist religions that preceded Islam and Christianity. Essentially, the narrative is about a journey of multiple characters but there is a larger political conflict in the background involving the two kingdoms.
The story revolves around the mystery surrounding the lost child that everyone seems to be searching for in the kingdoms. Our protagonist, Tracker—who has a keen sense of smell—is tasked with seeking the child as he encounters other mercenaries. Alongside him is the titular shape-shifter Leopard with whom they navigate impassable forests, congested cities, and treacherous lands and waters. As this band of misfits takes this unpredictable odyssey, alliances are formed while twists and turns adjust certain elements of their personal relationships. Their interactions bring to question the importance of truth in storytelling when lies could serve the same purpose. This is the case especially for Tracker, akin to others, who harbors secrets and tells lies to convey much better and interesting tales.
This first installment of the Dark Star trilogy opens this tale about destiny, belief, power, ambition, and most of all the nature of truth. The author explores the protagonist’s relationship with truth and integrity in a world that demands violence and people’s dark sides. Kirkus Reviews wrote, “He not only brings a fresh multicultural perspective to a grand fantasy subgenre, but also broadens the genre’s psychological and metaphysical possibilities.” The narrative resonates with the audience in the same vein as Tolkien’s books, the Game of Thrones franchise, and Black Panther.
