A review by apierlessbridge
Once There Was by Kiyash Monsef

emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A quietly poignant and powerful book about grief, friendship, family, animals, magic, inspired by Persian mythology. I've heard it described as a cross between 'Fantastic Beasts' and Neil Gaimain, which I feel is pretty accurate. I loved the journey that Marjan went on from confused and angry, to discovering the truth of her family power and her own. Beautiful, but with familiar MG/YA fantasy tropes. I loved the audio narration here. Very good. 
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