A review by searchingforhappilyeverafter
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri is the first book in the Burning Kingdoms trilogy, in which a captive princess and a maidservant with forbidden magical powers form an alliance in a world inspired by ancient India. 
 
There are five major character perspectives and a few minor ones in this book but all are so well done and engaging. Princess Malini is being held captive by her brother, the sadistic emperor of Parijatdvipa, in an ancient temple in the subjugated city of Ahiranya. She wants to do whatever she can to depose him and bring down his tyranny. Malini is a formidable strategist and will use whatever means necessary to achieve her goals. Priya, on the other hand, works as a maid in the regent’s staff and helps children suffering from the rot and starvation. She goes on a journey to rediscover her roots and learn how she can use her powers to better the lives of her people. Malini and Priya’s lives become entwined as they, along with several other characters, embark on an intriguing path to save their land. 
 
The romance between these two is a deliciously sensual slow burn, filled with lots of yearning. Their relationship progresses at an appropriate pace while balancing the power dynamics of their positions and the fact that Malini is, at first, completely dependent upon Priya to stay alive. 
 
Suri’s writing is evocative, with an exquisitely crafted plot, a full cast of well-developed characters, and an incredible magic system. The worldbuilding is impeccable and unlike anything I’ve ever read. Suri deftly explores themes of colonialism, oppression, and power. She weaves in the history of Ahiranya and the Parijatdvipan empire, while sensitively portraying the brutal effects of colonization, in particular how colonization decimates cultures in the name of religious fanaticism and misogyny. The author also examines power and what different people are willing to do with the power they hold and at what cost. This story is told through multiple POVs, allowing readers to experience all of these themes through a diverse range of characters and making this a very thought-provoking and nuanced read. 
 
I don’t have enough words to express how much I loved this book. 
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