This book had been on my TBR for a very long time, and I'm thinking, why the hell did I wait so long to read it? I absolutely loved every bit of it!
TThis book had been on my TBR for a very long time, and I'm thinking, why the hell did I wait so long to read it? I absolutely loved every bit of it!
The characters were well-written with a lot of depth. Naime was a headstrong, independent woman who not only did her best to survive the people who tried to bring her down but also fiercely protected the ones who needed her. Makram was broken yet easygoing and tried to build better relationships with others. I liked the way they balanced each other out.
The supporting characters were also great. I loved Samira and Tareck and their relationship with the protagonists. I especially loved Tareck and Makram's banter more than anything.
The political maneuvering, conflicts, mental games were so masterfully crafted. At every point I kept waiting to see how Naime would tackle all the obstacles placed before her.
The magical system was interesting, and I liked the abilities of the various mages and how they were divided into houses. From the writing, I can say the author had thought out every detail and explained it well.
The romance between the protagonists was also good. It's tough to build a connection between two people in the course of one book as there's a risk of rushing it, but the author managed it well.
Overall, this book was a masterpiece. I can't wait to read the others and see how things turn out. Although every book focuses on a different couple, I'm hoping to see more of Naime and Makram in them, and most importantly, I want Tareck. I recommend it to all fantasy lovers who enjoy strong heroines, spicy romance, and political intrigue....more
I have limited experience when it comes to urban/contemporary fantasy novels. I usually read books set completely in the fictional realm as it helps mI have limited experience when it comes to urban/contemporary fantasy novels. I usually read books set completely in the fictional realm as it helps me disconnect with the real world. But when I first came across this book, the blurb made me want to read it. All the positive reviews further encouraged me to pick it up, and I'm so glad I did.
This was a rollercoaster ride from start to finish, and I enjoyed every bit of it. The mystery behind Aspen's identity, her memory loss, the discovery of her powers were unravelled perfectly. The author had sprinkled all the details throughout the book so as to hold the reader's interest without leading to an information overdose.
I loved the characters. Aspen was a headstrong and independent woman, while the love interest, Aiden, was supportive, intelligent and not to mention, handsome. They complemented each other well. I'm eager to see their relationship develop in the coming books.
The supporting characters were also well written. I hope Ori and Eileen are the good guys and end up helping Aspen in her mission. Evelyn and Aspen's relationship was the best part about the book. Their interactions warmed my heart.
The elemental magic was described beautifully. The abilities of each individual element at different levels, their blend with a person's other elemental abilities, the various tests designed to assess them was all well thought-out and explained. For someone like me, who has limited knowledge of science, this was a huge help.
The writing style was great, and the story flowed smoothly. Even the conversations seemed natural and helped me connect with the story. I'm also very satisfied with the way things ended. The author made sure that the reader has answers to all the immediate important questions so as to not make them feel like something's incomplete. At the same time, it brought up some more questions so that we can look forward to them in the coming books.
Overall, this was an amazing adventure. I highly recommend it to all fantasy lovers if you love urban settings, elemental magic, mystery involving a cult and strong heroines....more
A great mashup of Rumplestiltskin and Rapunzel! The story had me hooked from the first page itself. The author had masterfully crafted the mystery aroA great mashup of Rumplestiltskin and Rapunzel! The story had me hooked from the first page itself. The author had masterfully crafted the mystery around the characters and unravelled them piece by piece throughout the book.
The writing style was beautiful, and the story flowed smoothly. There was never a dull moment. I would push myself to stay awake late at night because I wanted to know what happened next and also be eager to get back home after work so that I could continue the story.
The worldbuilding was also great, and I liked how the history of the characters was explored that led to the current events. The magic and its rules were well thought out and explained. It helped me understand how the deals worked and the consequences of breaking it.
My only issue with the story was with the characters' behaviours. They seemed snappish and angry almost all the time. I totally understand being traumatized, but some of the things they said to each other was uncalled for. I especially had an issue with the way Sandor treated Lorraine. Aurelia made terrible decisions and blamed others for it.
I liked Hakim though; he was the best character. He needs his own story. Overall, I think this was an enjoyable read, and if you can overlook the characters' flaws, it'll be even more awesome. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy fairytale retellings with a lot of twists, secrets and some romance....more
This book had a lot of potential, but it severely lacked in execution. I picked it up because of the blurb and the cover, and I'm left disappointed. TThis book had a lot of potential, but it severely lacked in execution. I picked it up because of the blurb and the cover, and I'm left disappointed. The writing did not flow well, and at times I felt like the chapters ended abruptly. The conversations felt forced, and the characters failed to understand the simplest things the other person was trying to say.
The characters could have been more fleshed out. The female protagonist was toxic. I was sympathetic towards her in the beginning because of her disability, but then she constantly blamed others for every little thing she couldn't do. She gave her twin sister a lot of grief for being protective or trying to help, but the handsome male character was allowed to do it. When the MMC does it, it's out of care but when the sister does it, it's because she sees her as inadequate.
The book was supposed to be about women empowerment, but all Kennara did was fall, cry and complain. The overuse of phrases like she fell, tumbled, tripped, slipped and he/she cried, sobbed, had water in his/her eyes, tears in the eyes, after every 2 pages got exhausting.
Throughout the book the characters only travelled from one place to another. They set up camp, cooked, ate, packed, enjoyed time at an inn with a few minor incidents sprinkled in with some action. And this was when Kennara wasn't doing her usual falling and crying.
The characters also desperately needed to learn how to keep secrets. There were eight characters, and they all coupled up but not a single one had any chemistry.
The ending was anti-climactic and made no sense. The powerful, cruel king cried like a baby within minutes. The right hand guy was also disarmed in no time. There was a dramatic exchange of some dialogues and then the book was over.
The book had too many errors - grammar, spelling and punctuation. I'm not someone who pays attention to these things because English is not even my first language, but it felt like I was reading an unedited version.
I should have stopped reading ages ago, but some of positive reviews had me believing that it would get better....more
I can't remember the last time a book made me ugly cry. It was beautifully written, and the story flowed effortlessly. I felt like I was watching AliwI can't remember the last time a book made me ugly cry. It was beautifully written, and the story flowed effortlessly. I felt like I was watching Aliwyn and Aelfric's life play before my eyes, but there was nothing I could do to help ease their struggles, and it broke my heart.
All the characters were written well. They had depth and elicited a variety of emotions from me. Aliwyn's perseverance and strength were commendable. It would have been so easy for her to be selfish and give up, but she kept going despite everything. Aelfric's support and protectiveness towards her and Godwin warmed my heart.
This is a historical fantasy, and while my knowledge of history is terrible, I've heard that the worldbuilding is highly accurate. I also liked the descriptions of places, the different factions of people, their customs and cultures. The author clearly has done a lot of research.
I'm so relieved the book had a happy ending. I finished it in less than a day, and I cried through most of it. My poor heart wouldn't have been able to handle if things hadn't worked out. This is just the prequel to the main series, and I can't wait to read Book 1.
I recommend it to fantasy readers who enjoy historical settings, coming-of-age stories, themes of friendship, faith, forgiveness and healing. This book is a gem, and if you don't pick it up, you're definitely missing out....more
This is only my second experience with a humourous fantasy book, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked the bDelightful, entertaining, funny!
This is only my second experience with a humourous fantasy book, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked the blurb so I decided to give it a try, and while the beginning seemed a bit slow, it quickly picked up the pace and kept getting better with every chapter.
The characters were amazing and relatable. Their daily life struggles, mental health issues, and coping mechanisms were detailed which added a sense of depth to them. It made me want to keep reading because I could connect with everything they felt.
Though it was supposed to be a fun story, it covered some important topics like gender-based discrimination, depression, ADHD, the plight of the poor as they starved while the privileged wasted food. It broke my heart everytime I read about it.
Coming to the humour part, I loved Rubella's antics and all the ridiculous things that came out of her mouth. I also liked all the teasing and jokes shared by Cemre's chef friends. The best part was the climax. I snort-laughed at the revelation; it was shocking and hilarious at the same time.
The romance was sweet and heart-warming. Massimo's gestures towards Cemre made me melt. He was thoughtful and considerate, and I wanted to keep reading about their interactions.
The ending was highly satisfying. Overall, this was a great book, and I would recommend it to readers who enjoy fantasy with sweet heroes, strong frienships, food, humour, mental health struggles and fairytale retellings....more
Here's the thing about me: I'm a binge-reader, and I prefer reading books in a short span of time so that I don't lose interest. However, I had a veryHere's the thing about me: I'm a binge-reader, and I prefer reading books in a short span of time so that I don't lose interest. However, I had a very different experience with this book. It took me a while to finish due to my hectic work schedule, but everyday I'd wait to be done with work just so I could get around 45 mins of uninterrupted reading. I can gladly say that I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it.
The best part for me were the characters. Each one was beautifully crafted and their storylines were masterfully interweaved throughout the book. I love how the author took her time with each one of them and explained their backgrounds, motives, abilities, thought processes and nature. My favourite was obviously Pight. Though he was a supporting character, I enjoyed his mischief as well as resourcefulness. The character interactions were also great and seemed natural.
Another thing I loved about the book was the secrecy. Everyone had something to hide and though I could see their actions, there was more than what was being portrayed. At this point, it's difficult to say whose side I'm exactly on and hence, I'm eager to read the rest of the series.
The worldbuilding was amazingly detailed. The locations, history, magical abilities, political situation were all covered well.
I believe this book deserves a lot more love because it's a masterpiece. I recommend it to readers who enjoy dark and epic fantasy with complex storylines, morally grey characters and mystery....more
The first line of the blurb said 'Bridgerton meets Pirates of the Caribbean' so I obviously had to request the ARC because I absolutely love both. I cThe first line of the blurb said 'Bridgerton meets Pirates of the Caribbean' so I obviously had to request the ARC because I absolutely love both. I can happily say the book surpassed all my expectations. Unfortunately, I do not know what to do with myself now that I've finished it. I need more!
I adored the characters, especially Aurelia because I saw so much of myself in her. The books she read, the daydreaming, creating scenarios in her head, longing for adventure and wanting a different life - I could relate to it all. I felt every emotion and cried, laughed and loved with her. It's been a while since a character made me feel that way.
The other characters were unique and equally amazing and each one made the story interesting. From Aunt Clara to the Kingswoods to the pirates, every single one of them was well written. My favourite was Bartholomew, and even though he had a small role to play, I enjoyed his banter with his brothers. I hope to see more of him in the sequels.
The story was fast-paced and action-packed; there wasn't a single dull moment throughout. I was hooked from the first page itself. The twists and turns kept coming one after another. I liked the setting with a little bit of history, legend and magic sprinkled in.
The romance between Aurelia and William was swoon-worthy. Their chemistry was great and felt natural. I liked the built-up, and when they finally confessed how their feelings, it was perfect!
I don't think my review can do justice to the book. You'd have to read it yourself to know how awesome it is. I'm so thankful to the author for sending me the ARC. I highly recommend it to fantasy readers who enjoy romance, adventures, strong female MCs, and morally grey pirates. Don't miss out on this gem....more
The Arabian Nights stories hold a special place in my heart. I'm from India, and I have fond memories of reading the book and watching tv adaptations The Arabian Nights stories hold a special place in my heart. I'm from India, and I have fond memories of reading the book and watching tv adaptations as a child. So I usually have high expectations when I come across a retelling of any of the stories. I'm so glad this book exceeded them all.
Right from the first page there's an air of mystery to it, and as I kept reading, the secrets began to unravel in an interesting manner. If not for my hectic work schedule and constant interruptions, I would have finished this book in one sitting.
The characters were amazing. I loved Nahlah; she was a headstrong, independent woman who fiercely protected the people she loved. Rami, on the other hand was powerful and vulnerable at the same time. The author beautifully captured the contrast in his personality and gave an insight into his plight. The supporting characters were equally well written and had an important role to play even though they had limited time in the book. I wanted more of Vee, and I hope the author writes a spin-off about him in the future.
The worldbuilding was detailed, and I liked reading about the magical abilities. I also enjoyed the quest and the developing relationship between the main characters.
I found certain references and terms to be whimsical as the author had given her own twist to them. One example was that Nahlah's favourite book was Pride and Prejudiced Pixies by Jane Austenova. The book had a couple of those sprinkled around.
The ending was great - the climax as well as the epilogue that followed. Overall, this book was an enjoyable read, and I recommend to all fantasy readers who enjoy romance with a little spice, books inspired by Arabian Nights, Middle-Eastern settings, and adventure....more
I had a tough time getting through this book. Based on the blurb and reviews, I expected detailed worldbuilding, hidden identity, secrets, and conflicI had a tough time getting through this book. Based on the blurb and reviews, I expected detailed worldbuilding, hidden identity, secrets, and conflicts, but I was left feeling disappointed. It had potential, but the execution was lacking.
I couldn't connect with the characters; they were one dimensional. Their motives, feelings, reactions could have been better explored. The dialogues were flat and the conversations felt boring.
The male lead suffers from memory loss and his identity is supposed to be a mystery, but it's very obvious from early on who he really is. The events throughout the book aren't very interesting except towards the last 30%. That's when something worthwhile actually happens.
The repetitive use of the terms 'Angel' and 'Mother Nature' annoyed me after a point of time. There wasn't much in terms of romance even though the book is labelled as a dystopian romantasy.
The book needed more conflict and detailed information about the various factions. The characters also needed to be fleshed out. Overall, I can say it's not my cup of tea, and I won't be reading the next book....more
This was a fast-paced and enjoyable read. I'm usually not a fan of the miscommunication trope, but in this case it was well written. The plot was quitThis was a fast-paced and enjoyable read. I'm usually not a fan of the miscommunication trope, but in this case it was well written. The plot was quite good, and the writing style kept me hooked.
I liked Caiman out of all the characters. His vulnerability and empathy helped me connect with him. I hated the injustice and struggles he faced, and throughout the book, I had the urge to protect him. Roisin's character could have been better. I do not judge her for being harsh towards Caiman initially, but her overall feelings towards Alrec despite finding out the truth about him did not sit well with me. What also put me off was the way she treated Caiman towards the end even though it wasn't his fault.
The author did her best with the worldbuilding given the length of the book. The geographical settings, history, dynamics between the fae and humans was explained well.
The romance was good, especially the little efforts the characters made for each other. I would have liked to read more about how effectively they worked for their kingdom, and how Roisin's ideas were executed.
Overall, this was a great read, and I would recommend it to all fantasy romance lovers who enjoy the arranged marriage trope....more
When I read the blurb, I expected a unique story that would keep me hooked till the end. Instead, it felt like many individual plots thrown in togetheWhen I read the blurb, I expected a unique story that would keep me hooked till the end. Instead, it felt like many individual plots thrown in together, loosely connected, hoping it would make some sense.
The beginning showed great promise. It described Morena's plight, her struggle to take care of her sister, mourning the loss of a loved one, while also understanding the powers she would come into. But with every chapter, I started disconnecting from the story.
The characters could have been better developed. Their actions were inconsistent with their personality and experience. One minute they seemed like powerful beings, while the next minute they were naive youngsters playing pretend. I also think they could have done some more research before making important decisions.
The romance was difficult to read about. It was pure lust mixed with toxic behaviour. I wanted to scream at Morena to run away and never come back. Both male interests did not have any redeemable qualities, and even when they did something good, it seemed manipulative.
The ending consisted of some details thrown in haphazardly with little explanation. Atleast if that was done well, I would have been convinced to give the other books a try.
The only reason I'm giving this book 3 stars is that inspite of being an average read, I did not feel like DNFing it. There were few good parts here and there that made me feel like I should keep going....more
I have wanted to read this book for quite some time now, and I'm glad I was finally able to get to it. I enjoy suspense/thrillers, and while this bookI have wanted to read this book for quite some time now, and I'm glad I was finally able to get to it. I enjoy suspense/thrillers, and while this book had it's positive and negative points, I can say I couldn't put it down.
Coming to the good part, I loved Brooke! I like books with strong and independent female characters, and her empathetic nature reminded me of my best friend who is also studying to be a psychologist. I could closely connect with the character, almost like I knew her personally.
I also liked that the book explored three different stories, one with the courtroom drama, second with the relationship between Jacob and Alicia, and third and most important regarding the Surfside Killer.
The writing style is simple, and for people like me who have limited knowledge of psychological and legal terms, it was easy to understand. I prefer it when authors write stories keeping the average readers in mind. The pacing was also good.
The author's background played a majore role in the development of this story. Her knowledge and expertise as a clinical psychologist, working firsthand with murderers and two incidents in her personal life helped write this book.
Now comes the negative part. I don't do well with cliffhangers in suspense/thriller novels. I need answers by the end of the book, but I was left with a lot of questions. Unfortunately, the sequel is not available for purchase in India, so I probably won't know what happens next.
Apart from the abrupt ending and the cliffhanger, this was a good book. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy the suspense/thriller genre. If the sequel is available in your country then definitely give it a try....more
There's a reason Alice Ivinya's books are on my auto-read list - they're absolutely amazing! I don't even have to read the blurb most of the times; I There's a reason Alice Ivinya's books are on my auto-read list - they're absolutely amazing! I don't even have to read the blurb most of the times; I just know that the story is going to be unique and keep me at the edge of my seat the whole time. And this one delivered!
The characters were well-developed and felt very real. It was almost like I knew these people, and they brought out a variety of emotions in me. I especially loved Kasten! I have a thing for broken men, and l enjoyed reading about the ways in which Sophie changed the way he perceived things about his life. Even the positive changes Sophie went through with his support warmed my heart.
The conflict between the characters and their dynamics was well-written. I would keep guessing but never be able to figure out what move the enemy would make next. The secrets, hidden agendas and questionable loyalties made the story interesting.
The book was action-packed with no dull moment. The slow-burn romance was the best part of the book, and some of the interactions between Kasten and Sophie made me melt.
The technical and informative parts of the book were also done well. The author gave enough details without making it boring. Explanations regarding kryalcomy metals, medicinal plants, and halfsouls (zombie-like creatures) helped me understand the story better.
Overall, the book had all the elements that make a story perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to fantasy lovers. If you enjoy arranged marriage, slow-burn romance, grumpy-sunshine tropes then do not miss out on this gem....more
I love the Disney movie version of the Frog Prince, so when I came across this book, I decided to give it a try. It was a sweet, cosy and light-hearteI love the Disney movie version of the Frog Prince, so when I came across this book, I decided to give it a try. It was a sweet, cosy and light-hearted read focusing on themes of forgiveness and redemption.
I liked the characters, especially Anneliese who was headstrong, optimistic and just. Devon, while bitter and immature at the start, grew emotionally and learned a lot of valuable lessons by the end of the book.
The author gave detailed explanations about the relationship between the MCs, their history, the incident that pushed them apart and how they worked on overcoming their differences.
The romance was good, and the writing flowed smoothly. Overall, it was an enjoyable book, and I recommend it to readers who enjoy fairytale retellings....more
It's been ages since I binge-read a book, mainly due to time constraints, but I can finally recall that feeling of not being able to put a book down aIt's been ages since I binge-read a book, mainly due to time constraints, but I can finally recall that feeling of not being able to put a book down and giving up on sleep, eager to know what comes next.
The book was a rollercoaster of events right from the start, with great turning points that kept the story interesting. I liked the character backstories, history and worldbuilding as it fuelled my imagination. But most importantly, what kept me glued to the book were the characters. It was great to see their development, especially in Issaria's case, who went from a naive, sheltered girl to a strong woman who protected others.
I also adored the supporting characters, especially the ones sold into slavery. Their bond with Issaria and loyalty towards her were touching.
Usually, I'm not a fan of multiple POVs in a book as I tend to forget whose POV I'm reading and have to keep going back to check. Fortunately, this one was written from the third person perspective, so my reading progressed smoothly.
The only thing I didn't like was the romance. I do not like love triangles, and Issaria's relationship towards the end with a particular MC seemed rushed. It was almost like "the man I love is probably dead, so now I'm interested in you" kind of thing. I wish the author had taken more time to nurture their feelings. But since romance is a secondary trope in the book, it didn't affect my experience.
The book ended with a bang and with a lot of questions about the fate of each character. I'm eager to see what happens next and how the MCs deal with new threats.
Overall, this was an excellent book, and I'm thankful to the author for sending me an e-copy. I recommend it to all fantasy lovers who enjoy books with hidden agendas, found-families and strong female characters....more
A Peter Pan retelling but where Hook is the hero - reminded me of the TV series, Once Upon a Time.
I had been waiting for Gabrielle and Bastian's storA Peter Pan retelling but where Hook is the hero - reminded me of the TV series, Once Upon a Time.
I had been waiting for Gabrielle and Bastian's story since the first book hinted at it. I enjoy the enemies-to-lovers trope, but this book added to it with the second-chance angle. It's hard to fall in love with your enemy, but it's even harder to forgive when you believe the person you loved betrayed you. Tee Harlowe has done a wonderful job in exploring the relationship between the characters.
I absolutely adored the main characters, but Driscoll and Leoni's banter was my favourite part of the book. Every supporting character had a unique personality and they contributed significantly to the storyline. I liked that a lot because it brought variation to the story.
The romance was great; there was a balance between the sweet, spicy and conflicting moments. Although I wanted to headbutt Bastian at times for making stupid choices repeatedly, I understood where he was coming from. It's a sign of good writing because as a reader I could understand the words, actions and motivations of the characters.
I also loved the mystery revolving around the identity of the Shadow King. The revelation did not happen in this book, and I'm looking forward to the sequels where I'm hoping all the MCs from the series will band together to destroy the villain.
The pacing, tone, worldbuilding was amazing, and there wasn't a single point in the book where I felt uninterested. It had me hooked from the start to the end.
I can't wait for the next book to read about Lochlan's adventures. I would recommend it to all the readers who enjoy fairytale retellings with strong heroines, hot heroes, lots of romance, spicy scenes and action....more
One of my favourite tropes in the fantasy romance genre is the arranged marriage/marriage of convenience trope. I love the idea of two strangers beingOne of my favourite tropes in the fantasy romance genre is the arranged marriage/marriage of convenience trope. I love the idea of two strangers being pushed together, trying to make the relationship work for the sake of others but finding true love in the process. So when I came across the ARC of this book, I had to request it. And I'm glad that I did, because I enjoyed it so much.
The best thing about the book was the way the female characters were portrayed. They were headstrong, determined and independent and supported each other. Queen Alene was fierce but also gentle, Lady Piris was the friend anyone would be lucky to have and the FMC Strella was kind-hearted and intelligent. Every scene where these qualities were highlighted throughout the book were my favourite.
Certain secrets about the characters were revealed over the course of the book, and I liked how the author had spread them out to keep things interesting. However, there was one instance where I did not like a character's reaction to what another person shared. I found that a bit hypocritical given that they also had kept some secrets. I'm just relieved that they saw the error of their ways eventually.
The world-building was good, and I also liked the various magical abilities of the characters. The conflict among the clans and the Winterlands was explored well. But once again, I wasn't satisfied with the reason given for a character's betrayal. It didn't go well with what was described about their personality.
In terms of romance, the relationship between Ghel and Strella was developed well. There is a good amount of spice in the book with detailed scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, but I'm even more excited for the next one because it is about Lady Piris and Prince Jarok. I already loved the brief interactions they had in this book, and enemies-to-lovers is another one of my favourite tropes. I recommend this book to all fantasy romance readers who enjoy spice, secrets and strong heroines....more
The book had everything I love in a great fantasy: complicated romance, secrets unraveling as the story progresses, hidden identities and motives and The book had everything I love in a great fantasy: complicated romance, secrets unraveling as the story progresses, hidden identities and motives and power plays. When I started reading, I had a completely different idea about how it would turn out, but I was left pleasantly surprised at every turn.
I have a soft corner for male protagonists who are broken and vulnerable, so naturally I felt protective towards Marlak throughout the book. Astra, though a bit naive at times, was the perfect partner for him. I liked her character development, where she went from a sheltered girl who believed whatever was told to her to a strong, open-minded woman who tried to understand others before passing judgement.
Writing spicy romance can be tricky because sometimes authors overdo it. I've read books where intimate scenes were repetitive or borderline p*rnographic. I'm glad that wasn't the case here. The author has focused not just on the physical act but also the mental connection between the characters.
Though this book focused more on building Astra and Marlak's relationship, it set a strong foundation for the problems that would be explored in the upcoming books. I'm also excited to see what role the supporting characters play in the sequel. Tarlia and Ziven had a brief role but I immediately liked them.
The worldbuilding was detailed but there were few parts that lacked clarity as Astra's origins are still unknown. The next part would probably shed some light on it.
I almost dreaded the ending because of the climax, but I was relieved when I read the last paragraph. I recommend it to fantasy readers who enjoy spicy romance, hidden agendas, unexplored magic and broken male characters....more
One thing I'm sure of when I pick up a book by the author is that it's going to be something I've never read before, and once again, she has proven meOne thing I'm sure of when I pick up a book by the author is that it's going to be something I've never read before, and once again, she has proven me right. I'm crazy about fairytale retellings, especially the ones that are not commonly known, so when I found out that this book is based on a story called The Tinder Box, I felt even more excited as I would get to discover something new.
The writing style is truly captivating, and once I started reading, it was tough to put the book down. The world-building was descriptive and amazing, the details helping me play the scenes in my mind like I was right there experiencing the moments with the characters.
The main characters had so much depth. The author had explored their emotions, fears and traumas in a way that made me connect with them intimately. There were instances where I had to ask myself to just breathe; but that's her superpower - writing realistic characters. Johara was a strong-willed, intelligent and empathetic woman, and I just loved the way her character developed over the course of the book. I also found the dog, Bakir adorable.
The romance was sweet and some of the interactions between the MCs left me with a smile on my face. It also gave me the message that encouragement from just one right person is enough to help you see the potential in yourself.
Overall, this book was beyond perfect, and I enjoyed every bit of it. I recommend it to fantasy readers who enjoy books with a unique type of magic, strong heroines and fairytale like settings....more
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