THE OTHER PRINCESS

Nneka Okoye delivers a lively performance as African Princess Aina, who is kidnapped and taken to Victorian England. Aina, showing intelligence beyond her years, is saved from slavery, renamed Sarah, and given to Queen Victoria as a "gift." Okoye presents a charming, spirited child who grows into an appealing woman. Sarah spends her formative years as the Queen's goddaughter, enjoying the luxury of court life. However, her life changes dramatically when the Queen insists she marry a man she doesn't love. Okoye's accents and attitudes perfectly reflect Sarah's feelings. Especially poignant are her memories of the massacre of her family and friends. Okoye is exceptional as she delivers Sarah's struggle against racism, jealousy, and ignorance. Based on a true story, this is historical fiction at its finest. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2023]