Book Review: Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust
There’s something almost magical about discovering a new book that feels like it was written just for you, and that’s exactly the sensation I had while diving into Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust. As a fan of her debut, Girls Made of Snow and Glass, which I loved for its fresh take on the Snow White tale, I was eager to see what splendid world Bashardoust would conjure up next. The moment I read the intriguing premise—“Sometimes the Princess is a monster”—I knew I was in for a treat.
Girl, Serpent, Thorn unveils the story of Soraya, a princess burdened by a curse that renders her poisonous to the touch. Bashardoust paints a vivid picture of Soraya’s world—a lavish yet stifling castle where, thanks to her cursed existence, her very family views her as a danger. As the themes of isolation, identity, and self-acceptance unfold, I found myself rooting for Soraya even when her actions took darker turns. Her journey of self-discovery is fraught with internal conflict—which I deeply resonated with—and raises profound questions about what it means to be both beautiful and monstrous.
What truly swept me away was Bashardoust’s writing style. Her ability to create captivating world-building is on full display, showcasing a rich Persian atmosphere that feels alive. Through crisp, evocative descriptions, I could almost smell the flowers in the royal gardens and hear the distant laughter of the townsfolk. It’s not merely a backdrop; it’s interwoven into the narrative, enhancing Soraya’s emotional journey. Unlike some fantasy tales that can get lost in whims of magic, Bashardoust maintains a clarity and depth that keeps the plot moving accessible, allowing characters and their transformations to shine.
The relationship dynamics in the book—a complicated entanglement with her brother, the Shah, and the best friend who becomes his betrothed—add layers of tension. As Soraya grapples with her curse, I was captivated by the delicate dance of trust and betrayal that unfolds, creating an atmosphere rife with suspense. Each character adds another thread to the intricate tapestry of the story, leading me to question their motives right alongside Soraya.
One particular moment that resonated with me was when Soraya, confronting the Div held captive in her castle’s dungeons, is faced with a choice that could change everything. This encounter beautifully encapsulates the overarching theme of questioning one’s reality. It was hard not to feel a surge of empathy for her as she navigates through a web of deception and courage.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend Girl, Serpent, Thorn to YA fantasy readers, particularly those who appreciate tales steeped in diverse cultural influences. Soraya’s bi-perspective and the Persian backdrop not only enrich the narrative but also bring a refreshing lens through which to explore familiar themes of love, jealousy, and self-acceptance.
My reading experience was captivating, leading me to lose track of time as I turned the pages. Melissa Bashardoust has crafted a narrative that I believe will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or struggled to find their place in the world. This enchanting story is a testament to the power of storytelling, and I look forward to reading whatever Bashardoust brings us next. A big thank you to Flatiron Books for providing me with this gem and for including me in the blog tour—sharing the magic of stories like this one is indeed an honor.
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