This Woven Kingdom (TWK #1) by Tahereh Mafi

3.5 stars

this review contains spoilers!

3.5 because things started to happen 60% into the book. only when we were more than halfway through, romance of Kamran and Alizeh finally picked up, and then the story line got slightly eventful after Cyrus showed up. until then, we had the the premise setup, Alizeh being cold and scared, and Kamran making wildly wrong speculations. also, i hate when i can clearly tell the author did no fucking research on royal customs. what do you mean a prince can just walk out of the castle without his royal entourage? if he's incognito, i understand, but when a prince is making an official appearance in the city? and, why the hell is his best friend—who is the home minister—acting as his personal advisor/valet/butler/mother?

the book ends with Cyrus taking Alizeh to Tulan.

to marry her.

interesting.

i can't for the life of me figure out who the endgame is TT

i like kamran, ngl. sure, he's not too keen on becoming the king, and has been running away from his responsibilities, but i also realize that he's just an 18yr old child—the pressure he's under is too immense. and sure, he's not the smartest but he's got reliable instincts and his heart is in the right place. he's honest and respectful and a yearnerrrrr!!! imo it was a reasonable decision to not betray his King for a girl he met 2 days ago. not to mention, i personally do like the brooding and irritable characters who only turn soft and gentle with their girl. initially, I was irritated with the excessive descriptions of Alizeh being cold and scared, but it was all worth it as it served as the perfect buildup for the hug scene with Kamran. i absolutely loved how he took care of her.

that aside, Alizeh. i like that she's well-spoken and compassionate and strong. but girl needs a little cunning in her. you can't always be goody-two shoes. yes, i am irritated at her for not killing off Miss Huda.

Cyrus on the other hand. he's strong, smart and powerful it seems, and also, a bit unhinged. i'm curious to see if there will become something of Alizeh and Cyrus.

also, yes, the entire book takes place within a span of 3 days.