Empire of Sand

It burnnss it burnnns

Started out as a 5 star read, ended as “only” a 3.5 to 4 star one. But I am very much hooked and want more of this world!

I finally finished this book after putting it off for a long time, but I think I was appreciate it more now. It has stunning characters and a beautiful love story, a very familiar but also novel world building and a steady pace that makes you wanna savor the book. Mehr and Amun are perfect examples of resilience and quiet strength, who fight for their freedom and love in the limited ways they can - I admire them so much and I can't think of many characters I've felt similarly about in recent times.

I listened to the audiobook and I have to say it felt very soothing in a way and I would highly recommend it. And if you like your fantasy stories to be written on the more contemplative side rather than blazing through the narrative, then you should definitely give this one a try.

Initial Thoughts: I really enjoyed this! The world and mythology this is built on is rich, interesting and unique in YA fantasy! I really enjoyed Mehr as a character but didn't love the romance but it definitely didn't ruin the book. Overall I recommend to anyone whose looking for a new YA fantasy

I was very excited to read this after reading the blurb for it. I thought it was beautifully written. I enjoyed this world and it's magical storms, and I liked the characters as well.

This story follows Mehr, part Amrithi, part Ambhan noble. She is an outcast. The Amrithi are hunted by the emperor and often killed because of the magic they possess. Mehr hides her Amrithi heritage because she lives with her father, a governor for the emperor.

When a storm comes, Mehr dances the rite. Her magic is exposed and she draws the attention of the emperor's feared mystics. The Maha is the most powerful and feared of all. He wants Mehr to marry one of his mystics. He wants her power.

It is against Mehr's Amrithi heritage to do this, but, if she doesn't, her family could lose everything, including their lives.

I really enjoyed this book and am eager for the next one. I received a copy from Net Galley.

Empire of Sand, Tasha Suri???s fantasy debut novel inspired by Mughal India, is magnificent. Though there is plenty of darkness within its pages, there is also an abundance of light as the main characters fight back against evil and injustice???not with the strength of force and weapons, but with the strength of hearts and minds. It???s a wonderful exploration of themes like choice and connection, and it???s also a treasure trove of rich storytelling with its vibrant characters and relationships, fascinating world, and beautiful writing.

In short: I loved Empire of Sand and found it deeply affecting.

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

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