Reviewed by Joni Reads on
This is a YA fantasy set in a Middle Eastern inspired world that is just perfect in every way.
The main character is Soraya, the twin sister of the Shah, and she has been hidden away at the family's Spring palace for her entire life because she was cursed when she was born to be poisonous to the touch. She's gotten used to a life of solitude with only her garden of roses to keep her company. But after the family arrives with news of her brother's upcoming wedding and a new member of the royal guard stumbles upon Soraya she is forced to make the decision to either continue to live life in the shadows or try to break her curse finally let the world see her.
There was so much more to this story than a secret poisonous princess. There is a slow burn queer romance brewing throughout the novel and it fits right in with the rest of the story so that it flows perfectly.
Soraya is the type of character who makes the wrong choices all the time but you're rooting for her throughout the entire book. In order for her to grow as a character she has to make the tough choices that most people might not want her to make but without those decisions she would never grow as a character.
I loved the author notes in the back of the book where she shared what different books and tales inspired much of the story.
I recommend this book to everyone. It is definitely one of the best reads of the year.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 6 July, 2020: Finished reading
- 6 July, 2020: Reviewed