A review by elwirax
Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust

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

2.5

"Stories always begin the same way: There was and there was not. There is possibility in those words, the chance for hope or despair."

"Very well, then. Be angry. Be violent. But not for his sake. Not to do as he commands. Be angry for yourself. Use that rage to fight him."
 

Well...this was a huge letdown. 

The pacing was too fast for such a short book which made it seem like I was jumping from scene to scene without much transition or time to process. Due to its short nature it was too convenient and predictable for me to really feel invested. Although, I appreciated Soraya's struggles with ostracization, isolation and her somewhat growth, I didn't feel connected to her in any way and she often came off as naive and self pitying. In fact, I didn't like most of the characters except Parvaneh (who barely got any attention), their dialogues and actions seemed catoonish to me. Another thing was the minimal worldbuilding. Maybe it was due to how short the book was or how much focus was given to inner monologue that really blurred out anything beyond it, but ultimately it was unfulfilling. There was a general idea of power structures, conflicts and lore but nothing too substantial.  Parvaneh and Soraya's romance could've been great but it just didn't develop in a believable manner (although, their tender moments were undeniably sweet). 

One thing I did love about the book was its influences from Persian mythology/ lore with the author's note on how certain elements inspired the novel. I also loved the queer Rappaccini's daughter vibes. Unfortunately, that was about it. 

Overall, a fantastic concept with an execution that deserved better. All I got from this book was resurfaced ACOTAR trauma (very similar concepts in both ). It's definitely not the worst thing I've ever read, just not my cup of tea.
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