tonks332's review
adventurous
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
slicebread's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.75
hazelnut_starlight's review
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
For a debut novel, it was well done. I thoroughly enjoyed the concepts, as well as the setting. The author pulled from her own roots and gave us a story set in Indo-Caribbean culture. Our main character, Valxina, is determined to rise above the circumstances of her birth in order to follow her dream. We are given mystery, intrigue, queer representation, and a diverse cast.
However, given the marketing the author did, it fell short of my expectations. The plot line moved much too quickly, and there were a couple of spots where the story felt disconnected. I really wished the author had flushed things out more. I understand our MC only works/interacts with a very limited part of the overall society, but I felt lost when it came to how the societal structure is designed in this world. There just wasn't enough to this novel to keep me thoroughly engaged. It was like roast chicken and mashed potatoes - only the chicken was overcooked and there wasn't any gravy.
However, given the marketing the author did, it fell short of my expectations. The plot line moved much too quickly, and there were a couple of spots where the story felt disconnected. I really wished the author had flushed things out more. I understand our MC only works/interacts with a very limited part of the overall society, but I felt lost when it came to how the societal structure is designed in this world. There just wasn't enough to this novel to keep me thoroughly engaged. It was like roast chicken and mashed potatoes - only the chicken was overcooked and there wasn't any gravy.
angelas_book_nook's review against another edition
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
siasprout's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This book had some absolutely beautiful prose throughout the story. I loved all of the badass women and the interesting world. I had a good time reading it overall.
I did feel like the relationships between some of the characters felt rushed and somewhat superficial. I think I would have liked stronger development of these relationships to show more motivation throughout the story.
I did feel like the relationships between some of the characters felt rushed and somewhat superficial. I think I would have liked stronger development of these relationships to show more motivation throughout the story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Torture, Murder, and Sexism
Moderate: Vomit and Gore
thenorwegianperson's review
5.0
I did not want to finish the book, because I didn't want it to be over.. I do need more, like this could probably be a 600 page book without feeling long. Faste pace, but everything is written so well and concise (my absolute favourite regarding fantasy). I tried to savour the book and the characters. Needless to say, I want more of Val!
jxclecl's review
I not only received an ARC of this title, but was hired by the author to illustrate an exclusive print pre-release. Regardless, I am leaving this review voluntarily & it reflects my thoughts truthfully.
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
As an Indo-Caribbean American who shares the author’s ethnic background & had yet to see our culture so much as mentioned in genres aside from non-fiction, I was so excited to find CJ’s TikTok page! Finally, an MC who could truly be me in a way other South Asian protagonists couldn’t would take center stage in a magical world inspired by the lands our ancestors found new life in.
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
As an Indo-Caribbean American who shares the author’s ethnic background & had yet to see our culture so much as mentioned in genres aside from non-fiction, I was so excited to find CJ’s TikTok page! Finally, an MC who could truly be me in a way other South Asian protagonists couldn’t would take center stage in a magical world inspired by the lands our ancestors found new life in.
And while many believed it was the gods who carved out the tunnels, Valxina and her family knew the truth: It was not.
The rocks had been carved by the hands of the people, by the very folks of Lavenia, by the first who lived under Badawi rule. For Valxina, the history had been passed on through generations. Her ancestors had been brought to the island of Qeshm from the continent to labor and work the tunnels. They had migrated on contracts, with empty promises of a better life post-servitude. The Badawi promise of gold, of plots of garden lands, and of class - it was never fulfilled. But even them, even her ancestors were lucky, as they were left to live. Not all the folks brought to Qeshm to work the tunnels had the same ending. Not all had come on promises or signed contracts. But one this was true: It was the people, all of them, who built the tunnels, not the gods.
The rocks had been carved by the hands of the people, by the very folks of Lavenia, by the first who lived under Badawi rule. For Valxina, the history had been passed on through generations. Her ancestors had been brought to the island of Qeshm from the continent to labor and work the tunnels. They had migrated on contracts, with empty promises of a better life post-servitude. The Badawi promise of gold, of plots of garden lands, and of class - it was never fulfilled. But even them, even her ancestors were lucky, as they were left to live. Not all the folks brought to Qeshm to work the tunnels had the same ending. Not all had come on promises or signed contracts. But one this was true: It was the people, all of them, who built the tunnels, not the gods.
Brb, crying a little.
It’s indescribable just how much that paragraph alone means to me.
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
Sentimentality aside …
HoB was an easy read that never felt sluggish or boring. That being said, I saw another reviewer mention that the story would benefit from an additional 100 pages dedicated to expanding upon relationships & I do agree.
There exist relationships between characters that predate the start of the novel, which is of course not unusual, but their few scenes together coupled with the relatively short length of the book restricted the amount of depth & understanding of their closeness we were able to get. I’m not sure whether we’ll be revisiting Val’s world, but a prequel and/or sequel would might help readers connect more with the characters.
I am by no means an editor, but I found there to be certain lines that could be reworked for clarity, completeness of thought, or more advantageous phrasing.
I loved the level of ethnic diversity CJ’s written into her world, and how it reflects the real communities of the Caribbean - our little colloquialisms & foods making an appearance was a lovely addition as well. A pan protagonist and potentially polyamorous relationship are also appreciated details I don’t see included often in fantastical reads.
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
In all, “House of Badawi” was an enjoyable read & promising debut. I look forward to CJ’s future works.
Before reading, please see the author’s provided warnings for possibly triggering content.
kutsireads's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I got and ARC form the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was one of my most anticipated reads for this year. I’ve been following this author for sometime on TikTok and was really excited to read this book, which I why I’m so sad that this was kind of a let down. I believe this book would have benefited from being turned into a duology. I felt like there wasn’t enough time to truly build up the stakes when it came to the conflict and the romantic relationships.
I will say that the writing was good and the world building was interesting but I just needed more.
This was one of my most anticipated reads for this year. I’ve been following this author for sometime on TikTok and was really excited to read this book, which I why I’m so sad that this was kind of a let down. I believe this book would have benefited from being turned into a duology. I felt like there wasn’t enough time to truly build up the stakes when it came to the conflict and the romantic relationships.
I will say that the writing was good and the world building was interesting but I just needed more.
bittersweetcritiques's review
5.0
4.5/5⭐️ (Since Goodreads is an all or nothing rating system, I'm rounding up because House of Badawi was really close to the full 5 stars)
I was so excited to receive an arc of House of Badawi as I've been looking forward to this book for awhile!
Favorite quote: "What happens in a person’s life to leave them dashing through the darkness with the person once responsible for their pain? What twisted events and spiraling paths leave one glancing over to the person they once thought they understood and knew, not out of wariness— but with fascination?"
First off, let me say, that the pacing of House of Badawi was spectacular. There was never a moment where I felt inclined to skip anything, even when tensions were high and the stakes were real. Khemi is not afraid to unalive her characters, so guard your heart accordingly. I'm still crushed from certain events.
While I adore Val and her tenacity, I really loved the ones she surrounded herself with even more. They were everything I hope for in a found family storyline. Danae's character development was especially satisfying.
I feel like I can safely describe the ending as pleasing, albeit a tiny bit open-ended; which is nice because I would love to return to this world for a continuation of Val's story, or even have the opportunity to follow more POVs.
My only complaint is I feel like we didn't get enough time to "know" the villain[s]. Don't get me wrong, they are definitely monsters, but I was seeking more motivation and a little more explanation for certain events. On the other side of this, you know you enjoyed the heck out of a story when you wish there was more of it.
Either way, I devoured House of Badawi, fell hard for a certain guard (or two) and definitely found myself smitten with multiple keepers. I highly recommend this debut novel as a fall must-read.
✔️Pansexual FMC
✔️Diverse characters
✔️Found family
✔️Sapphic relationships
✔️Friends to lovers
✔️Enemies to lovers
✔️Badass women
✔️Who did this to you energy
I was so excited to receive an arc of House of Badawi as I've been looking forward to this book for awhile!
Favorite quote: "What happens in a person’s life to leave them dashing through the darkness with the person once responsible for their pain? What twisted events and spiraling paths leave one glancing over to the person they once thought they understood and knew, not out of wariness— but with fascination?"
First off, let me say, that the pacing of House of Badawi was spectacular. There was never a moment where I felt inclined to skip anything, even when tensions were high and the stakes were real. Khemi is not afraid to unalive her characters, so guard your heart accordingly. I'm still crushed from certain events.
While I adore Val and her tenacity, I really loved the ones she surrounded herself with even more. They were everything I hope for in a found family storyline. Danae's character development was especially satisfying.
I feel like I can safely describe the ending as pleasing, albeit a tiny bit open-ended; which is nice because I would love to return to this world for a continuation of Val's story, or even have the opportunity to follow more POVs.
My only complaint is I feel like we didn't get enough time to "know" the villain[s]. Don't get me wrong, they are definitely monsters, but I was seeking more motivation and a little more explanation for certain events. On the other side of this, you know you enjoyed the heck out of a story when you wish there was more of it.
Either way, I devoured House of Badawi, fell hard for a certain guard (or two) and definitely found myself smitten with multiple keepers. I highly recommend this debut novel as a fall must-read.
✔️Pansexual FMC
✔️Diverse characters
✔️Found family
✔️Sapphic relationships
✔️Friends to lovers
✔️Enemies to lovers
✔️Badass women
✔️Who did this to you energy
authorelenareagan's review
adventurous
dark
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am blown away by House of Badawi! Do you like women with sharp objects? LGBT-friendly platonic and romantic relationships? How about betrayal, deception, deep devotion, loss, and immortality? You're going to LOVE this book!
Valxina Kulrani has worked her way up to the role of Keeper of the Spring of immortality, facing the obstacle of being poor in a role traditionally filled by children of nobility, fighting off the disdain of anyone who would look down on her. Read along as she comes into her power and strength.
Enter the Caribbean-inspired world created by C.J. Khemi - The House of Badawi reigns supreme over its little corner of the world. Explore the Tower, full of strong, independent ladies (Keepers chosen by the gods) who protect the Spring, and their daring and brave personal guards. All is well for Badawi while they are on guard! Until it isn't...
Betrayal hits, enemies become friends, and friends become lovers. Everyone has a past you know nothing about...you won't know who to believe. There is too much to discover, so read for yourself!
I am blown away by House of Badawi! Do you like women with sharp objects? LGBT-friendly platonic and romantic relationships? How about betrayal, deception, deep devotion, loss, and immortality? You're going to LOVE this book!
Valxina Kulrani has worked her way up to the role of Keeper of the Spring of immortality, facing the obstacle of being poor in a role traditionally filled by children of nobility, fighting off the disdain of anyone who would look down on her. Read along as she comes into her power and strength.
Enter the Caribbean-inspired world created by C.J. Khemi - The House of Badawi reigns supreme over its little corner of the world. Explore the Tower, full of strong, independent ladies (Keepers chosen by the gods) who protect the Spring, and their daring and brave personal guards. All is well for Badawi while they are on guard! Until it isn't...
Betrayal hits, enemies become friends, and friends become lovers. Everyone has a past you know nothing about...you won't know who to believe. There is too much to discover, so read for yourself!
More...