Title: Girl, Serpent, Thorn
Author: Melissa Bashardoust
Publisher: Flatiron Books (July 2020)
Is it just me, or has COVID kicked everyone's motivation in the teeth? But I am back and reading up a storm. With winter dancing on our doorsteps here, it's perfect timing to settle in and burn through my rather insane pile of books I was hoping to read this year.
Up first is Girl, Serpent, Thorn, a Persian folklore inspired fantasy by Melissa Bashadoust.
There was and there was not, as all stories begin, a princess cursed to be poisonous to the touch. But for Soraya, who has lived her life hidden away, apart from her family, safe only in her gardens, it’s not just a story.
As the day of her twin brother’s wedding approaches, Soraya must decide if she’s willing to step outside of the shadows for the first time. Below in the dungeon is a demon who holds knowledge that she craves, the answer to her freedom. And above is a young man who isn’t afraid of her, whose eyes linger not with fear, but with an understanding of who she is beneath the poison.
Soraya thought she knew her place in the world, but when her choices lead to consequences she never imagined, she begins to question who she is and who she is becoming...human or demon. Princess or monster. (from Goodreads)
This book was a spontaneous buy for me. I spotted it at one of bookstores in my town that stock a small but current selection of English YA titles and grabbed it for the cover alone. It was also really appealing that this is a standalone and I wouldn't be waiting on a sequel to find out the conclusion of the story.
I was really surprised by how good this is. The writing is lyrical without being overly so and the story definitely had that whimsical, fairy-tale feel to it while still feeling fresh and exciting. It reminded me a little of Enchantment of Ravens, so if you loved that book, I have a good feeling you will enjoy this one too.
In terms of plot and pacing, I felt the story flowed and had definitive sections where you could feel Soraya's progression as a character. There were plenty of twists and revelations that kept me on my toes. There is also an unexpected romance in this that will please those seeking more LGBTQ representation. This is handled subtly and with tenderness and is not there simply for the sake of ticking boxes.
I am keen to try out the author's previous book, Girls Made of Snow and Glass, if it is anywhere near as enjoyable as this one.
All in all, if you are looking for a quick, yet satisfying read, I highly recommend this one.
