I got this softcover at a local thrift shop. It's a multi-viewpoint look at an alternate-history/steampunk version of the settlement of the Congo during the rule of King Leopold II of Belgium. His real-life rule led to widespread atrocities on an almost unthinkable scale; here, it's postulated that a large section of his territory is purchased for use as a settlement for natives and for enslaved people returning from outside the country. In that sense it's much more hopeful than the historical record - but even in this reality, outside forces are ranged against the new settlement out of greed and prejudice. Will their new technologies enable them to protect themselves?

I like multi-viewpoint stories in general, and this one has a nicely diverse cast, whose experiences and actions have significant effects on the story.

I left this book in the Little Free Library; hope someone enjoys it!

[See other recent releases in MA here.]

*** Released for the 2022 One Word Title challenge. ***