2.5 stars
Don't be deterred, I did enjoy this but there are some issues I'll address. Maybe the writing style is an acquired taste, but the biggest issue I had with this was all the info dumping, filler words and so much unnecessary verbiage that the points were often was lost on me.

There was a good plot twist halfway through, but it took a long time for it to unfold. This took off at a very slow pace. Another plot twist towards the end that was sadly obvious. Then a series of horrifyingly twisted, plot twists, which were well executed.

Of course we have instalove which I am not a fan of but I understand some people don't mind. This WAS a Cinderella retelling afterall, so maybe I'm being unfair. You can determine for yourselves if this is really so bad.
"Would he forever compare all others to her? Would anyone else ever make him feel as much? And if not, would he be cursed forever to live only a half-life, a life of quiet acquiescence, of unfulfilled expectations? Was it worse, he wondered, to never know what you might have— or worse to have it snatched away before you might have it?"
A hopelessly romantic prince. *Swoon* As long as I overlook the fact that he met her TWO DAYS beforehand. On top of that, Kamran is a hot headed, arrogant, impulsive, spoiled prince who constantly complains about his silk shirts being too stiff. Probably my least favorite person in the book.

I wanted to like Alizeh, but there just wasn't much to like. The thing that stood out most to me was her poor judgement in character. Even with a magical, lie detecting object in her possession, she still manages to misjudge.

Of course the very best character was introduced at the end. I fell in love with him ✨instantly✨ and yes I know I'm a hypocrite. I'm definitely reading the second book. This first installment seems to exist just to set the stage for a good series anyways. My fingers are crossed for the second book to be a Beauty and The Beast retelling.

Nevertheless this did have some pretty quotes among all the over the top writing. One of my favorites despite it being from Kamran.
"I grow tired," he said, trying to breath, "of being in my right mind. I much prefer this kind of madness."

This Woven Kingdom - Likewise Book Reviews

9 Reviews