The Wrath and the Dawn – Renée Ahdieh

I remember when I was in primary school I did a school play about Shahrazad and 1000 Arabian Nights, so when I read the blurb in Waterstones it brought back so many memories that I had to pick it up. Plus I wanted something different and unique to read on holiday and this book fitted the bill.

In a land ruled by the murderous boy-king, each dawn brings heartache to a new family as each night he takes a new bride only for her to be murdered come morning. When sixteen-year-old Shahrzad’s dearest friend falls victim to Khalid, Shahrzad vows vengeance and volunteers to be his next bride. Shahrzad is determined not only to stay alive but to end the caliph’s reign of terror once and for all. But something she never expected begins to happen: Khalid is nothing like what she’d imagined him to be and she may be falling in love with a murderer.

This was another book I read after ‘A Court of Mist and Fury’ so I think I kept comparing it to that, which is unfair as that book is incredible and nothing can compare to that series. But as I got further into it I began to love this book and its characters more and more especially Shahrzard who is such a fierce, determined and stubborn heroine. All the characters worked together really well with our usual banter and plenty of swoon worthy moments between Shahrzard and Khalid. The romance between the two of them was perfect and their dialogue was beautiful, filled with metaphors formed from pure love. The only downside was that I needed more, I just wish this book was longer!

“What are you doing to me, you plague of a girl?” he whispered.
“If I’m a plague, then you should keep your distance unless you plan on being destroyed.” The weapons still in her grasp, she shoved against his chest.
“No.” His hands dropped to her waist. “Destroy me.”

The story itself is rich, detailed and magical especially the world building which is just stunning, from the places and architecture to the exotic and mouth-watering food descriptions. Ahdieh transports you to a fairytale world and invites us to discover more of the rich eastern culture and takes us along on her action packed adventure.

Overall, the second part of the book is what really made it for me so I’ve got high expectations for the sequel which I’ll be picking up very soon as I need more of this story! This wonderfully written and beautifully crafted story is perfect for those looking for an exotic and romantic fantasy adventure.

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