Title: “This Woven Kingdom” – An Exquisite Fantasy Inspired by Persian Mythology
Tahereh Mafi’s “This Woven Kingdom,” the first book in a new epic and romantic trilogy, is a captivating and breathtaking fantasy that draws inspiration from Persian mythology. Narrated by the talented Kate Reading, this audiobook is a must-listen for fans of Leigh Bardugo, Tomi Adeyemi, and Sabaa Tahir.
The story follows Alizeh, a seemingly disposable servant who is actually the long-lost heir to an ancient Jinn kingdom, forced to hide in plain sight. Meanwhile, the crown prince, Kamran, has heard the prophecies foretelling the death of his king, but he could never have imagined that the servant girl with the strange eyes, the girl he can’t put out of his mind, would one day soon uproot his kingdom—and the world.
Mafi’s writing is as exquisite as one of Alizeh’s own garments, weaving a spell of destiny and danger, forbidden love and courtly intrigue, magic and revolution. The world-building is rich and immersive, transporting readers to a land of ancient magic and political intrigue. The descriptions of the Jinn kingdom and its inhabitants are vivid and enchanting, creating a fully-realized fantasy world that feels both familiar and wholly unique.
The characters in “This Woven Kingdom” are complex and multi-layered, with their own unique motivations and desires. Alizeh is a particularly intriguing protagonist, torn between her duty to her people and her desire for freedom and self-determination. Mafi explores Alizeh’s inner turmoil and the choices she makes with great skill and nuance, creating a character that is both sympathetic and deeply compelling.
Kamran, too, is a fascinating character, caught between his loyalty to his kingdom and his growing feelings for Alizeh. The romance between Alizeh and Kamran is both sweet and forbidden, with a chemistry that is palpable from their very first encounter. Mafi builds the tension between them with great skill, creating a sense of anticipation and longing that keeps readers engaged throughout the story.
Reading’s narration is superb, capturing the lush and poetic prose of Mafi’s writing with great skill. She brings the characters to life with distinct voices and personalities, adding an extra layer of depth and emotional resonance to the listening experience.
One of the strengths of “This Woven Kingdom” is its ability to blend elements of Persian mythology with classic fantasy tropes, creating a story that feels both fresh and timeless. Mafi draws upon the rich history and culture of Persia to create a world that is steeped in magic and wonder, while also exploring themes of power, destiny, and the cost of freedom.
The pacing of the story is expertly crafted, with each chapter building upon the last and leading to a climactic conclusion that will leave readers breathless. Mafi’s skill at crafting twists and turns is on full display, with each revelation and betrayal hitting harder than the last.
As the first book in a trilogy, “This Woven Kingdom” does an excellent job of setting up the larger story arc and introducing readers to the world and characters. The ending is both satisfying and open-ended, leaving readers eager for the next installment in the series.
In conclusion, “This Woven Kingdom” is a must-listen for fans of epic fantasy and anyone who loves a good story of forbidden love and political intrigue. Tahereh Mafi has created a world that is both beautiful and dangerous, filled with characters who are as complex as they are compelling. The audiobook, brought to life by the talented narration of Kate Reading, is an immersive and unforgettable experience that will leave listeners eager for more. With its clever prose, delicious twists, and breathtaking world-building, “This Woven Kingdom” is sure to become a new classic in the genre.
