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The Scorched Throne #1
The Jasad Heir
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Romantasy (2023)Ten years ago, the kingdom of Jasad burned. Its magic outlawed; its royal family murdered down to the last child. At least, that’s what Sylvia wants people to believe.
The lost Heir of Jasad, Sylvia never wants to be found. She can’t think about how Nizahl’s armies laid waste to her kingdom and continue to hunt its people—not if she wants to stay alive. But when Arin, the Nizahl Heir, tracks a group of Jasadi rebels to her village, staying one step ahead of death gets trickier.
In a moment of anger Sylvia’s magic is exposed, capturing Arin’s attention. Now, to save her life, Sylvia will have to make a deal with her greatest enemy. If she helps him lure the rebels, she’ll escape persecution.
A deadly game begins. Sylvia can’t let Arin discover her identity even as hatred shifts into something more. Soon, Sylvia will have to choose between the life she wants and the one she left behind. The scorched kingdom is rising, and it needs a queen.
In this Egyptian-inspired debut fantasy, a fugitive queen strikes a deadly bargain with her greatest enemy and finds herself embroiled in a complex game that could resurrect her scorched kingdom or leave it in ashes forever.
The lost Heir of Jasad, Sylvia never wants to be found. She can’t think about how Nizahl’s armies laid waste to her kingdom and continue to hunt its people—not if she wants to stay alive. But when Arin, the Nizahl Heir, tracks a group of Jasadi rebels to her village, staying one step ahead of death gets trickier.
In a moment of anger Sylvia’s magic is exposed, capturing Arin’s attention. Now, to save her life, Sylvia will have to make a deal with her greatest enemy. If she helps him lure the rebels, she’ll escape persecution.
A deadly game begins. Sylvia can’t let Arin discover her identity even as hatred shifts into something more. Soon, Sylvia will have to choose between the life she wants and the one she left behind. The scorched kingdom is rising, and it needs a queen.
In this Egyptian-inspired debut fantasy, a fugitive queen strikes a deadly bargain with her greatest enemy and finds herself embroiled in a complex game that could resurrect her scorched kingdom or leave it in ashes forever.
523 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2023
2410 people are currently reading
130067 people want to read
About the author
Sara Hashem
2 books1,753 followersSara Hashem is the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Jasad Heir. An American-Egyptian writer from Southern California, she spent many sunny days holed up indoors with a book. Sara’s love for fantasy and magical realms emerged during the two years her family lived in Egypt. When she isn’t busy naming stray cats in her neighborhood after her favorite authors, Sara can be found buried under coffee-ringed notebooks.
You can find Sara on Instagram and TikTok under @shashemwrites!
You can find Sara on Instagram and TikTok under @shashemwrites!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,464 reviews
May 18, 2025
this was my third time attempting to read and i DID in fact finish it. everybody clap.
June 28, 2023
a very promising debut!
it follows a tried and true format for political fantasy stories, which most readers will find familiar and enjoyable. with tropes like a queen in hiding, the tension of enemies to lovers, a competition of champions, and scheming kingdom rulers, this ticks a lot of boxes. and the egyptian inspiration is also a really nice touch and creates a very vibrant atmosphere.
but the things that kept me from loving this were the unnecessary long length and inconsistent pacing, some weak editing, and awkward writing. not deal breakers but definitely things i would want to see improved before publication and/or as the series continues.
so again, a lot of promising components to this story and im looking forward to seeing how the next book progresses!
thank you, orbit books, for the ARC!
↠ 3.5 stars
it follows a tried and true format for political fantasy stories, which most readers will find familiar and enjoyable. with tropes like a queen in hiding, the tension of enemies to lovers, a competition of champions, and scheming kingdom rulers, this ticks a lot of boxes. and the egyptian inspiration is also a really nice touch and creates a very vibrant atmosphere.
but the things that kept me from loving this were the unnecessary long length and inconsistent pacing, some weak editing, and awkward writing. not deal breakers but definitely things i would want to see improved before publication and/or as the series continues.
so again, a lot of promising components to this story and im looking forward to seeing how the next book progresses!
thank you, orbit books, for the ARC!
↠ 3.5 stars
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March 24, 2023The Jasad Heir takes familiar fantasy plot elements—a destroyed kingdom; a hidden heir to the lost throne—and gives them a thrilling extra layer of political complexity. The epic slow burn between protagonist and antagonist will have you frantically turning pages to find out if they’ll kiss—or finally successfully kill—each other.
July 9, 2023
Oh welcome, new favorite—if there's one book you'll preorder, make it this one. Addictive and exciting, this Egyptian-inspired debut fantasy takes well-known Fantasy tropes and makes them *flourish* :
✔ the chosen one (who doesn't want to be chosen) and the overwhelming burden of other people’s expectations;
✔ a will they/ won't they (kill or kiss each other) slow-burn that WILL alter your brain chemistry;
✔ deadly trials filled with monstrous creatures and magic;
✔ war between political factions —their allure and their lies.
Set in an Egyptian-inspired world filled with myths, The Jasad Heir explores the themes of family, loyalty, finding oneself after being shaped by others all one's life, resilience, betrayal(s) and power, but it’s also about trauma—how it shapes us, and how we crave to raise above it anyway. I was hooked from the first page and in the rare moments I had to stop reading—because real life exists, rude—I couldn’t stop thinking about the characters I fell in love with:
✔ Sylvia, of course, our fierce and relatable heroine I came to adore—I loved her humour and her tenacity so much, and above everything, let it be known that I root for *her*;
✔ Arin, her enemy/reluctant ally/something-more-please-and-thank-you, is rigid, lonely, manipulative, brilliant, maybe evil, but oh-so-loyal… What's not to love, I’m asking?
✔ I also need to mention the supportive cast of characters because their interactions with our main characters were everything: from Effa & Marek, Silvia's friends (she'll have you know that she didn't ask for that!!!!) to Beru and Wes, Arin's guards—their scenes often made me smile so big and I’d protect Effa with my life, okay?
The last chapters kept me on the edge of my seat and now I have to ask: how am I supposed to wait for the sequel? Huh?
CW:
Thanks orbit books uk for the arc!
✔ the chosen one (who doesn't want to be chosen) and the overwhelming burden of other people’s expectations;
✔ a will they/ won't they (kill or kiss each other) slow-burn that WILL alter your brain chemistry;
✔ deadly trials filled with monstrous creatures and magic;
✔ war between political factions —their allure and their lies.
Set in an Egyptian-inspired world filled with myths, The Jasad Heir explores the themes of family, loyalty, finding oneself after being shaped by others all one's life, resilience, betrayal(s) and power, but it’s also about trauma—how it shapes us, and how we crave to raise above it anyway. I was hooked from the first page and in the rare moments I had to stop reading—because real life exists, rude—I couldn’t stop thinking about the characters I fell in love with:
✔ Sylvia, of course, our fierce and relatable heroine I came to adore—I loved her humour and her tenacity so much, and above everything, let it be known that I root for *her*;
✔ Arin, her enemy/reluctant ally/something-more-please-and-thank-you, is rigid, lonely, manipulative, brilliant, maybe evil, but oh-so-loyal… What's not to love, I’m asking?
✔ I also need to mention the supportive cast of characters because their interactions with our main characters were everything: from Effa & Marek, Silvia's friends (she'll have you know that she didn't ask for that!!!!) to Beru and Wes, Arin's guards—their scenes often made me smile so big and I’d protect Effa with my life, okay?
The last chapters kept me on the edge of my seat and now I have to ask: how am I supposed to wait for the sequel? Huh?
CW:
Thanks orbit books uk for the arc!
July 23, 2023
“What appeal can reason have in the face of your tears?”
I have been waiting for this book for a year and around four months at least. I've been so exited for it, so sure I'd love it, and there's no better feeling than proving yourself right when it comes to a book, I think.
The Jasad Heir is one of those brilliant books that sucks you in so fast and doesn't give you time to breathe until it's over and you're left in a puddle of your own tears.
THAT'S RIGHT FRIENDS, I CRIED. I have been HURT by this book to extreme levels that I'm wondering how I'm even writing this now. But it's a good kind of pain, the best, caused by the best book in the universe. I'M NOT EVEN KIDDING I LOVE THIS SO MUCH.
If I could give this 10 billion stars I would, but not even 10 billion would be enough. Sara Hashem, you have ruined me for all future books. I've said this once before, but NOW I am well and truly ruined.
I just love everything about this, the writing, the story, the characters, the setting, the magic the romance. How is it possible that everything was so perfect???
Sylvia is our main character, a Jasadi queen hiding in a village until her past catches up with her. Hers is the main PoV we follow throughout the book. The other PoV is that of Arin, the heir to another kingdom and the villain.
I have loved both of them from the moment they were introduced on page, and I kept wondering if we'd get Arin's PoV at some point. Lo and behold, we did!! I think it's only around three chapters, but I adored reading them. I hope the next book will have even more of him.
Both Sylvia and Arin developed from start to finish, I'm of the firm belief that it wouldn't have been possible if they didn't have each other.
They start off as enemies and become lovers while still wanting to end the other person, naturally. It's so delicious to read, and the fact that it's a slow burn too makes it even better. I was SUFFERING, waiting to see if they'll kiss or not. And you know what? My suffering paid off, that's all I'll say.
I also loved Sefa, Marek, Fairel, Rory, Dawoud, Wes, Jeru, Diya, all the Jasadis (even the not-so-nice ones)...
Speaking of Sefa and Marek, their relationship is unclear until a certain point where we learn that it's a relationship on the ace spectrum which is so cool!!! I was not expecting ace rep at all, if I didn't already love this book, then this would make me love it for sure.
Now let me complain about the ending and by complain I mean scream at the sky in frustration because the second book isn't available yet. Of course, we get a cliffhanger that's perfectly designed to make you frantically flip the pages hoping there's more and that it's not truly the end.
SADLY, it is the end. For now. I am not okay. I need another box of tissues and a hug. Many hugs.
If you trust my taste in fantasy books, and want to read something that's proper enemies to lovers, full of politics and magic then READ THE JASAD HEIR!!!!! You won't be disappointed.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
I have been waiting for this book for a year and around four months at least. I've been so exited for it, so sure I'd love it, and there's no better feeling than proving yourself right when it comes to a book, I think.
The Jasad Heir is one of those brilliant books that sucks you in so fast and doesn't give you time to breathe until it's over and you're left in a puddle of your own tears.
THAT'S RIGHT FRIENDS, I CRIED. I have been HURT by this book to extreme levels that I'm wondering how I'm even writing this now. But it's a good kind of pain, the best, caused by the best book in the universe. I'M NOT EVEN KIDDING I LOVE THIS SO MUCH.
If I could give this 10 billion stars I would, but not even 10 billion would be enough. Sara Hashem, you have ruined me for all future books. I've said this once before, but NOW I am well and truly ruined.
I just love everything about this, the writing, the story, the characters, the setting, the magic the romance. How is it possible that everything was so perfect???
Sylvia is our main character, a Jasadi queen hiding in a village until her past catches up with her. Hers is the main PoV we follow throughout the book. The other PoV is that of Arin, the heir to another kingdom and the villain.
I have loved both of them from the moment they were introduced on page, and I kept wondering if we'd get Arin's PoV at some point. Lo and behold, we did!! I think it's only around three chapters, but I adored reading them. I hope the next book will have even more of him.
Both Sylvia and Arin developed from start to finish, I'm of the firm belief that it wouldn't have been possible if they didn't have each other.
They start off as enemies and become lovers while still wanting to end the other person, naturally. It's so delicious to read, and the fact that it's a slow burn too makes it even better. I was SUFFERING, waiting to see if they'll kiss or not. And you know what? My suffering paid off, that's all I'll say.
I also loved Sefa, Marek, Fairel, Rory, Dawoud, Wes, Jeru, Diya, all the Jasadis (even the not-so-nice ones)...
Speaking of Sefa and Marek, their relationship is unclear until a certain point where we learn that it's a relationship on the ace spectrum which is so cool!!! I was not expecting ace rep at all, if I didn't already love this book, then this would make me love it for sure.
Now let me complain about the ending and by complain I mean scream at the sky in frustration because the second book isn't available yet. Of course, we get a cliffhanger that's perfectly designed to make you frantically flip the pages hoping there's more and that it's not truly the end.
SADLY, it is the end. For now. I am not okay. I need another box of tissues and a hug. Many hugs.
If you trust my taste in fantasy books, and want to read something that's proper enemies to lovers, full of politics and magic then READ THE JASAD HEIR!!!!! You won't be disappointed.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
November 21, 2023
Overview:
💋 Enemies to Lovers
💋 Super slow burn
🤯 Twists Twists Twists
🤯 Betrayal from multiple sides
♥️ Vast expansive world
♥️ Morally grey characters
🤔 Political intrigue
⭐⭐ Read more of my reviews and get tips on the best Enemies to Lovers books by checking out my Blog, Enemies to Lovers Source ⭐⭐
I DNFed this book when I first read it, and it my opinion, it is a 5 star read and one of the most unique and fun fantasy books I've picked up this year. Let's talk about what changed.
10 years ago, Sylvia fled her homeland and went into hiding after the Nizahl kingdom invaded and laid waste to the land. As the heir to the Jasad throne, the last kingdom with dangerous magic, she and her kind are hunted to the ends of the earth, put into sham trials, and executed. She lived a life of peace until the Nizahl Heir Arin finds her in her village and chooses her to be his champion in a deadly game between kingdoms. As Sylvia trains for this competition, she must keep her identity hidden, or face death.
I will start with the book's flaw; this is a debut novel, and the first 100 pages are a tad slow with quite a bit of exposition and info dumping. Not so much that it is unreadable, but its clear the author really wants to connect you to the world but struggles to find natural places to put the information. Sara Hashem clearly has planned out every inch of her world and there is a lot of information to keep track of- yet I also found that this information is naturally expanded on as the book progresses. Moreso, you can tell that she is plotting out a massive world expansion in books following. This is a fantastic series if you like a big fantasy universe with a lot of thought put into the intricacies.
Sylvia is one of the most beautifully written main characters I've spent time with in awhile. She is a deeply conflicted person wrestling with a troubled past and the crushing guilt she feels in collaborating with the kingdom that slaughtered every person she has ever loved. Her adventure slowly begins to reveal dark details about Jasad that force her to reconcile with the past of her own people. Her story asks the reader to examine their ideas about perfect victimhood- and whether nations that perpetuate atrocities deserve to experience those atrocities inflicted on them. Why would every nation want the Jasad gone, and what does one do when an enemy is vanquished?
Sylvia herself is a survivor, and it's established early on that she does not have a lot of moral hangups when It comes to protecting herself and those she loves. She is not an "everyman" main character; but a woman plagued with a troubled past who is not afraid of using violence
Arin is the secondary main character worth talking about- the Nizahl Heir. Hia character is written strictly as a villain for a major portion of the book. Arin is an icy shrewd warlord able to swiftly sniff out secrets and lies. he is emotionally distant from his allies and brutal on his enemies- willing to kill or torture to achieve his goals.
The books is written in first person, so the characters are seen though Sylvia's point of view, thus many remain relatively mysterious. There are some fun side characters here, but they don't have a lot going on in terms of independent storylines. This actually worked for me because there are many characters that all have plot threads connected to Sylvia, and her relationships with all of them range from warm and emotional to devastating. I was particularly affected by her relationships with certain characters from her past that show up a bit later in the story. The other characters of note appear in the back half of the story: the nobles of the kingdoms and their selected champions. This includes a manipulative and fearsome sultena, an axe wielding brute, and a whole cast of interesting characters.
But how is the enemies to lovers promise?
The romance in the book is easily one of the best I've read in fantasy fullstop. This is the slowest burn possible. every single moment between these characters is earned. Arin and Sylvia start out as enemies when she is captured. He isn't seen as a handsome rogue- she truly sees him as a detestable monster who is beyond humanity. Because both characters are deeply broken, romance and attraction is not on their minds. Instead, the two slowly grow to trust each other as reluctant allies and then friends. Feelings play a part only towards the end of the book.
If you like romance where the leads attempt to kill each other and don't feel shy about harming each other, this one is for you. Sara Hashem creates a truly national progression to romance that starts with bitter enemies from different factions carrying prejudice and hate with them. She carefully plans a story where each plot points brings the characters closer to each other against their will.
Sometimes there is banter, but the book strays away from "two quick witted people shooting off Joss Whedon lines at each other" focusing on darker conflicts between the two. Namely, Arin is predudice against Sylvia's people. His father destroyed her lands. He genuinely fears the power that magic has and carries the generational trauma of that; motivating what he does and how he treats others. The pair struggle to feel safe under normal circumstances, but working together to achieve a goal puts the mistrust both of them have to the test.
This is NOT a romance where the main character's heart flutters right away, or the villain love interest does something shockingly sweet early in the book. Arin and Sylvia are ice cold, and their adventures with each other thaw years of trauma and social conditioning. The Jasad Heir truly is the story of two broken people harming and hating each other because they can't fathom a world where love and companionship is possible for them.
The Jasad Heir sometimes demands work from you. Its not always an easy read, but it works to reward you at every turn with shocking twists, excellent character development, and a 5 star romance.
💋 Enemies to Lovers
💋 Super slow burn
🤯 Twists Twists Twists
🤯 Betrayal from multiple sides
♥️ Vast expansive world
♥️ Morally grey characters
🤔 Political intrigue
⭐⭐ Read more of my reviews and get tips on the best Enemies to Lovers books by checking out my Blog, Enemies to Lovers Source ⭐⭐
I DNFed this book when I first read it, and it my opinion, it is a 5 star read and one of the most unique and fun fantasy books I've picked up this year. Let's talk about what changed.
10 years ago, Sylvia fled her homeland and went into hiding after the Nizahl kingdom invaded and laid waste to the land. As the heir to the Jasad throne, the last kingdom with dangerous magic, she and her kind are hunted to the ends of the earth, put into sham trials, and executed. She lived a life of peace until the Nizahl Heir Arin finds her in her village and chooses her to be his champion in a deadly game between kingdoms. As Sylvia trains for this competition, she must keep her identity hidden, or face death.
I will start with the book's flaw; this is a debut novel, and the first 100 pages are a tad slow with quite a bit of exposition and info dumping. Not so much that it is unreadable, but its clear the author really wants to connect you to the world but struggles to find natural places to put the information. Sara Hashem clearly has planned out every inch of her world and there is a lot of information to keep track of- yet I also found that this information is naturally expanded on as the book progresses. Moreso, you can tell that she is plotting out a massive world expansion in books following. This is a fantastic series if you like a big fantasy universe with a lot of thought put into the intricacies.
Sylvia is one of the most beautifully written main characters I've spent time with in awhile. She is a deeply conflicted person wrestling with a troubled past and the crushing guilt she feels in collaborating with the kingdom that slaughtered every person she has ever loved. Her adventure slowly begins to reveal dark details about Jasad that force her to reconcile with the past of her own people. Her story asks the reader to examine their ideas about perfect victimhood- and whether nations that perpetuate atrocities deserve to experience those atrocities inflicted on them. Why would every nation want the Jasad gone, and what does one do when an enemy is vanquished?
Sylvia herself is a survivor, and it's established early on that she does not have a lot of moral hangups when It comes to protecting herself and those she loves. She is not an "everyman" main character; but a woman plagued with a troubled past who is not afraid of using violence
Arin is the secondary main character worth talking about- the Nizahl Heir. Hia character is written strictly as a villain for a major portion of the book. Arin is an icy shrewd warlord able to swiftly sniff out secrets and lies. he is emotionally distant from his allies and brutal on his enemies- willing to kill or torture to achieve his goals.
The books is written in first person, so the characters are seen though Sylvia's point of view, thus many remain relatively mysterious. There are some fun side characters here, but they don't have a lot going on in terms of independent storylines. This actually worked for me because there are many characters that all have plot threads connected to Sylvia, and her relationships with all of them range from warm and emotional to devastating. I was particularly affected by her relationships with certain characters from her past that show up a bit later in the story. The other characters of note appear in the back half of the story: the nobles of the kingdoms and their selected champions. This includes a manipulative and fearsome sultena, an axe wielding brute, and a whole cast of interesting characters.
But how is the enemies to lovers promise?
The romance in the book is easily one of the best I've read in fantasy fullstop. This is the slowest burn possible. every single moment between these characters is earned. Arin and Sylvia start out as enemies when she is captured. He isn't seen as a handsome rogue- she truly sees him as a detestable monster who is beyond humanity. Because both characters are deeply broken, romance and attraction is not on their minds. Instead, the two slowly grow to trust each other as reluctant allies and then friends. Feelings play a part only towards the end of the book.
If you like romance where the leads attempt to kill each other and don't feel shy about harming each other, this one is for you. Sara Hashem creates a truly national progression to romance that starts with bitter enemies from different factions carrying prejudice and hate with them. She carefully plans a story where each plot points brings the characters closer to each other against their will.
Sometimes there is banter, but the book strays away from "two quick witted people shooting off Joss Whedon lines at each other" focusing on darker conflicts between the two. Namely, Arin is predudice against Sylvia's people. His father destroyed her lands. He genuinely fears the power that magic has and carries the generational trauma of that; motivating what he does and how he treats others. The pair struggle to feel safe under normal circumstances, but working together to achieve a goal puts the mistrust both of them have to the test.
This is NOT a romance where the main character's heart flutters right away, or the villain love interest does something shockingly sweet early in the book. Arin and Sylvia are ice cold, and their adventures with each other thaw years of trauma and social conditioning. The Jasad Heir truly is the story of two broken people harming and hating each other because they can't fathom a world where love and companionship is possible for them.
The Jasad Heir sometimes demands work from you. Its not always an easy read, but it works to reward you at every turn with shocking twists, excellent character development, and a 5 star romance.
March 28, 2024
3.5 ⭐��
Whilst I loved the premise and the plot and the characters, it all felt kinda surface level. I got confused at certain points (especially in the second half) as the plot seemed to move along but with no explanations of what was happening. There were so many characters and places it was kinda hard to keep track of them all too.
(Side note - these issues could just be a me problem as I only managed to read a chapter, or a few, at a time so it was probably interrupting the flow of the story.
Also another side note as I feel it’s important - I read it so slowly but that wasn’t because I didn’t enjoy the book I was just in a slump).
But overall I love the whole world and storyline so I’m hoping the next book is better! One thing that was done really well though was the romance subplot!! This is true enemies to lovers 🤌🏻
—————————
been in a bit of a slump lately so I chose this at random, fingers crossed it helps 🤞🏻
Whilst I loved the premise and the plot and the characters, it all felt kinda surface level. I got confused at certain points (especially in the second half) as the plot seemed to move along but with no explanations of what was happening. There were so many characters and places it was kinda hard to keep track of them all too.
(Side note - these issues could just be a me problem as I only managed to read a chapter, or a few, at a time so it was probably interrupting the flow of the story.
Also another side note as I feel it’s important - I read it so slowly but that wasn’t because I didn’t enjoy the book I was just in a slump).
But overall I love the whole world and storyline so I’m hoping the next book is better! One thing that was done really well though was the romance subplot!! This is true enemies to lovers 🤌🏻
—————————
been in a bit of a slump lately so I chose this at random, fingers crossed it helps 🤞🏻
August 29, 2023
I finally finished this! Whew what a struggle
It started off so well and I was so invested and intrigued but towards the middle it started to drag, I was promised a deadly tournament however that didn’t even start until 3/4 of the book.
My main issue with this story was the fact the main character has cuffs on her wrist that prohibits her from using her magic, she was held hostage for 5 years and tortured and still her magic didn’t work. However as the story progressed she was able to not only use her magic with the cuffs but use it whenever she wanted… how??
Unfortunately I didn’t buy the romance either, it was once again a promising start with true enemies to lovers vibes but to me there was no slow build it was 300+ pages of enemies then the next minute there in love…when did this happen!
I was going to give it a 3⭐️ but as I read through the ending I just realised I’m not enjoying this at all its taken me all month to even read it even accompanied with the audiobook I just couldn’t bring myself to care for these characters or plot
It started off so well and I was so invested and intrigued but towards the middle it started to drag, I was promised a deadly tournament however that didn’t even start until 3/4 of the book.
My main issue with this story was the fact the main character has cuffs on her wrist that prohibits her from using her magic, she was held hostage for 5 years and tortured and still her magic didn’t work. However as the story progressed she was able to not only use her magic with the cuffs but use it whenever she wanted… how??
Unfortunately I didn’t buy the romance either, it was once again a promising start with true enemies to lovers vibes but to me there was no slow build it was 300+ pages of enemies then the next minute there in love…when did this happen!
I was going to give it a 3⭐️ but as I read through the ending I just realised I’m not enjoying this at all its taken me all month to even read it even accompanied with the audiobook I just couldn’t bring myself to care for these characters or plot
Currently reading
March 24, 2025
When I gonna finish this book, my dear? lol! 🤣🤣
Is on the cover Apep and Horus? I'm not sure.
July 15, 2023
"Your soldiers cannot take me to your kingdom and put me before a court, because I do not exist. According to your history texts, I died almost eleven years ago. I burned to death alongside my grandparents and a dozen others. I believe my crown was taken for display in a war monument. Tell me, how can the dead stand trial for the living?"
A kingdom in ruin, the royalty massacred, a race hunted and persecuted, magic outlawed. Welcome to The Jasad Heir, the stunningly fiery debut by Sara Hashem.
Jasad was once a powerful kingdom, rich with culture, prosperity and magic. Jasadi’s thrived and lived freely until the fateful events which lead the Nizahl armies to burn their lands, kill their people, prohibit magic and annihilate every last royal. Or so they thought. Sylvia is the Jasad Heir, the sole survivor after her entire ruling family were brutally murdered at the Blood Summit. In the aftermath across the four kingdoms of Omal, Lukub, Orban and Nizahl, formerly known as Jasad, the Jasadi race are hunted by Nizahl soldiers and put to trial for any illegal use of magic. No Jasadi can live openly and no Jasadi is shown mercy by Supreme Rawain. Sylvia, now living in a quiet village in Omal spending her days apprenticed to a chemist, has mastered the art of concealing her true identity and has little desire to be found. Yet underneath her magic burns with rage. When the Nizahl Heir, Arin, visits the village of Mahair in Omal for the traditional Waleema celebration, Sylvia unwittingly captures her most feared enemy’s attention. What follows from then is a game of high stakes, for Sylvia must become the Nizahl Champion in the Alcahal, a game of three deadly trials where the winner receives much wealth and ultimate freedom, and she must also enter a bargain with Arin and aid him in the capture of two Jasadi rebel factions. As the chains that bind Sylvia tighten from all sides she must choose whether to seek freedom for herself or to free her people.
In the opening chapters we learn a great deal about the four kingdoms as Sylvia reluctantly remembers her past. This did take some time for me to fully comprehend and to visualise where all these places were in relation to one another. My ARC didn’t include a map and so I was struggling, but fortunately I was able to message the author and Hashem was kind enough to send me a digital copy. Immediately the detailed map clarified everything and I was able to immerse myself into the story, which kicks events into action rather rapidly. Readers are delved into a world that is filled with much political strife dating back many centuries ago before the Nizahl armies were even formed. Here is where Hashem seamlessly blends together history, politics and mythology. The roots to the downfall and suppression of Jasad began when the Jasad Awal, a godlike figure of pure magic, lost control and burnt his own followers. From then each kingdom’s Awal began their slumber and as a result each kingdom began to lose their magic—except Jasad which still thrived and thus remained powerful. We all know power breeds corruption but it also breeds jealousy. As the novel progresses we discover how far the Nizahl strayed from their original purpose, how much was lost and the blood that had been spilt, and how history became distorted. Buried or suppressed truths is a key theme throughout, it is a concept we are familiar with even today, and I feel Hashem explores this superbly as she shows that all political sides of this war, in various ways, are at fault. No one’s hands are entirely clean.
"There is much you don't know about me, but understand this: I will fight for my freedom until my last breath. You took it away, and you cannot fault how ardently I choose to take it back. Until you have felt hunted, less than human, rejected from the moment you were born for something you did not ask for and cannot control—until then, do not speak to me of martyrs and mercenaries."
Speaking of dirty hands, this leads me to discuss our cast of wilful characters. My favourite kind of characters are those that are morally grey, that have goodness and darkness within them, that have a complicated, often traumatic backstory. Well Sylvia and Arin fulfilled all of this. Sylvia’s questionable actions throughout show she holds many dark secrets—she does not shy away from violence, her mind is always two steps ahead predicting the outcome of a situation before it happens and it is clear she has been shaped to think this way. Sylvia has been trained to survive knowing exactly when to fight and when to be submissive, to bide her time and plan her escape. Yet for all her strong, practical demeanour she has also faced much trauma and abuse in her life, which have inevitably left scars. She cannot tolerate anyone to physically touch her, she cannot accept kindness, friendship or love. Hashem uses Sylvia’s first person narration to reveal her true thoughts, her true intentions and though we build a picture of Sylvia being quite selfish in her self preservation, we do come to understand why. In turn I came to love her character all the more for this understanding. Fear, grief and rage consume Sylvia but her character grows slowly, naturally, and by the end she leaves us in awe.
As headstrong as Sylvia is, so too is our Nizahl Heir, Arin. On first appearances Arin seems to live up to his feared reputation as the tyrant Heir, but as we read on we discover that his character is far from what he seems. Piece by piece Arin’s acts of mercy, his code of honour shines through. For example in the poorer regions of Nizahl, Arin’s newly installed laws help those in need, restricting the age of those who could be conscripted into the Nizahl army and ensuring the families of those who are conscripted are provided for. We cannot mistake his character as any less dangerous though, as shown when those around him betray or cross his path, but Arin is certainly not a character prone to unnecessary acts of cruelty. What I loved most was his fiery connection towards Sylvia. The fantasy genre has seen a resurgence of the enemies to lovers trope, and whilst I’ve read a few of these myself recently, none have been as subtlety developed as Hashem does here. Sylvia has the ability to get under Arin’s skin, to rile him up, to make him blush. As he so eloquently puts it, Sylvia has the temperament of a “deranged goose” and he’s not wrong! Yet slowly she breaks through Arin’s hard exterior and they begin to understand one another. Their relationship maturely blossoms yet also retains its element of fun with their witty banter!
Romance, however, is not at the forefront of this novel, I believe the friendships hold a much more prominent part. Once again, Hashem shows herself to be the master of slow-burn, mature relationships. Marek and Sefa were two characters I adored right from the onset, they both show their love for Sylvia in the most tender ways given that Sylvia is a somewhat difficult person to become close to. Then again, once you find friends that will help you dispose of a dead body with no questions asked, you should never let those people go and this is something that Sylvia comes to realise! However what impressed me was the way, given Sylvia’s aversion to affection, they both respect her wishes and keep their physical contact minimal showing affection in other ways by gifting her favourite sesame seed candies or by caring for her plants or even, later on, by plotting to rescue even when it risks their own lives. They love her even though she tells them she doesn’t deserve it, they often do what she would not in return. In my eyes, that is true friendship.
“You entered a world where magic is corrosive and Jasadis are inherently evil. I entered one where turning a shoe into a dove made my mother laugh. Have you considered, in that infinite mind of yours, that the truly brilliant people are the ones who understand the realities we build were already built for us?"
Hashem often takes many fantasy tropes and portrays them in impressive ways. The most significant ones being the lost heir and the reluctant hero which is at the heart of this novel. However, I’ve always loved the forbidden magic trope and Hashem explores this fantastically too. Though magic has been outlawed there are remnants of its existence throughout the world. Certain monsters, inspired from Egyptian mythology, still persist and are drawn by magic, and the Jasadi rebels, the Mufsids and the Urabi, use it in their uprising. During these scenes I loved visualising the powers that the world once inhabited. Nevertheless in order for Sylvia’s identity to remain hidden she must keep her magic concealed, not that she can use it much anyway, but also entering a Champions game where her biggest advantage to win is her magic, proves somewhat difficult. Following Sylvia overcoming all the obstacles of her forbidden magic throws at her was deliciously entertaining, particularly in those last few explosive chapters.
Hashem has well and truly grabbed my attention—this first instalment of The Scorched Throne duology absolutely triumphs. The Jasad Heir blazes with rich worldbuilding, compelling characters and magic that will leave you singed.
“One day, I would stand trial before the spirits of my dead. One day, the bodies I never buried would call upon me to answer for my sins. One day, but not today.”
ARC provided by Nazia at Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the copy! All quotes used are taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
The Jasad Heir is out 20th July 2023
A kingdom in ruin, the royalty massacred, a race hunted and persecuted, magic outlawed. Welcome to The Jasad Heir, the stunningly fiery debut by Sara Hashem.
Jasad was once a powerful kingdom, rich with culture, prosperity and magic. Jasadi’s thrived and lived freely until the fateful events which lead the Nizahl armies to burn their lands, kill their people, prohibit magic and annihilate every last royal. Or so they thought. Sylvia is the Jasad Heir, the sole survivor after her entire ruling family were brutally murdered at the Blood Summit. In the aftermath across the four kingdoms of Omal, Lukub, Orban and Nizahl, formerly known as Jasad, the Jasadi race are hunted by Nizahl soldiers and put to trial for any illegal use of magic. No Jasadi can live openly and no Jasadi is shown mercy by Supreme Rawain. Sylvia, now living in a quiet village in Omal spending her days apprenticed to a chemist, has mastered the art of concealing her true identity and has little desire to be found. Yet underneath her magic burns with rage. When the Nizahl Heir, Arin, visits the village of Mahair in Omal for the traditional Waleema celebration, Sylvia unwittingly captures her most feared enemy’s attention. What follows from then is a game of high stakes, for Sylvia must become the Nizahl Champion in the Alcahal, a game of three deadly trials where the winner receives much wealth and ultimate freedom, and she must also enter a bargain with Arin and aid him in the capture of two Jasadi rebel factions. As the chains that bind Sylvia tighten from all sides she must choose whether to seek freedom for herself or to free her people.
In the opening chapters we learn a great deal about the four kingdoms as Sylvia reluctantly remembers her past. This did take some time for me to fully comprehend and to visualise where all these places were in relation to one another. My ARC didn’t include a map and so I was struggling, but fortunately I was able to message the author and Hashem was kind enough to send me a digital copy. Immediately the detailed map clarified everything and I was able to immerse myself into the story, which kicks events into action rather rapidly. Readers are delved into a world that is filled with much political strife dating back many centuries ago before the Nizahl armies were even formed. Here is where Hashem seamlessly blends together history, politics and mythology. The roots to the downfall and suppression of Jasad began when the Jasad Awal, a godlike figure of pure magic, lost control and burnt his own followers. From then each kingdom’s Awal began their slumber and as a result each kingdom began to lose their magic—except Jasad which still thrived and thus remained powerful. We all know power breeds corruption but it also breeds jealousy. As the novel progresses we discover how far the Nizahl strayed from their original purpose, how much was lost and the blood that had been spilt, and how history became distorted. Buried or suppressed truths is a key theme throughout, it is a concept we are familiar with even today, and I feel Hashem explores this superbly as she shows that all political sides of this war, in various ways, are at fault. No one’s hands are entirely clean.
"There is much you don't know about me, but understand this: I will fight for my freedom until my last breath. You took it away, and you cannot fault how ardently I choose to take it back. Until you have felt hunted, less than human, rejected from the moment you were born for something you did not ask for and cannot control—until then, do not speak to me of martyrs and mercenaries."
Speaking of dirty hands, this leads me to discuss our cast of wilful characters. My favourite kind of characters are those that are morally grey, that have goodness and darkness within them, that have a complicated, often traumatic backstory. Well Sylvia and Arin fulfilled all of this. Sylvia’s questionable actions throughout show she holds many dark secrets—she does not shy away from violence, her mind is always two steps ahead predicting the outcome of a situation before it happens and it is clear she has been shaped to think this way. Sylvia has been trained to survive knowing exactly when to fight and when to be submissive, to bide her time and plan her escape. Yet for all her strong, practical demeanour she has also faced much trauma and abuse in her life, which have inevitably left scars. She cannot tolerate anyone to physically touch her, she cannot accept kindness, friendship or love. Hashem uses Sylvia’s first person narration to reveal her true thoughts, her true intentions and though we build a picture of Sylvia being quite selfish in her self preservation, we do come to understand why. In turn I came to love her character all the more for this understanding. Fear, grief and rage consume Sylvia but her character grows slowly, naturally, and by the end she leaves us in awe.
As headstrong as Sylvia is, so too is our Nizahl Heir, Arin. On first appearances Arin seems to live up to his feared reputation as the tyrant Heir, but as we read on we discover that his character is far from what he seems. Piece by piece Arin’s acts of mercy, his code of honour shines through. For example in the poorer regions of Nizahl, Arin’s newly installed laws help those in need, restricting the age of those who could be conscripted into the Nizahl army and ensuring the families of those who are conscripted are provided for. We cannot mistake his character as any less dangerous though, as shown when those around him betray or cross his path, but Arin is certainly not a character prone to unnecessary acts of cruelty. What I loved most was his fiery connection towards Sylvia. The fantasy genre has seen a resurgence of the enemies to lovers trope, and whilst I’ve read a few of these myself recently, none have been as subtlety developed as Hashem does here. Sylvia has the ability to get under Arin’s skin, to rile him up, to make him blush. As he so eloquently puts it, Sylvia has the temperament of a “deranged goose” and he’s not wrong! Yet slowly she breaks through Arin’s hard exterior and they begin to understand one another. Their relationship maturely blossoms yet also retains its element of fun with their witty banter!
Romance, however, is not at the forefront of this novel, I believe the friendships hold a much more prominent part. Once again, Hashem shows herself to be the master of slow-burn, mature relationships. Marek and Sefa were two characters I adored right from the onset, they both show their love for Sylvia in the most tender ways given that Sylvia is a somewhat difficult person to become close to. Then again, once you find friends that will help you dispose of a dead body with no questions asked, you should never let those people go and this is something that Sylvia comes to realise! However what impressed me was the way, given Sylvia’s aversion to affection, they both respect her wishes and keep their physical contact minimal showing affection in other ways by gifting her favourite sesame seed candies or by caring for her plants or even, later on, by plotting to rescue even when it risks their own lives. They love her even though she tells them she doesn’t deserve it, they often do what she would not in return. In my eyes, that is true friendship.
“You entered a world where magic is corrosive and Jasadis are inherently evil. I entered one where turning a shoe into a dove made my mother laugh. Have you considered, in that infinite mind of yours, that the truly brilliant people are the ones who understand the realities we build were already built for us?"
Hashem often takes many fantasy tropes and portrays them in impressive ways. The most significant ones being the lost heir and the reluctant hero which is at the heart of this novel. However, I’ve always loved the forbidden magic trope and Hashem explores this fantastically too. Though magic has been outlawed there are remnants of its existence throughout the world. Certain monsters, inspired from Egyptian mythology, still persist and are drawn by magic, and the Jasadi rebels, the Mufsids and the Urabi, use it in their uprising. During these scenes I loved visualising the powers that the world once inhabited. Nevertheless in order for Sylvia’s identity to remain hidden she must keep her magic concealed, not that she can use it much anyway, but also entering a Champions game where her biggest advantage to win is her magic, proves somewhat difficult. Following Sylvia overcoming all the obstacles of her forbidden magic throws at her was deliciously entertaining, particularly in those last few explosive chapters.
Hashem has well and truly grabbed my attention—this first instalment of The Scorched Throne duology absolutely triumphs. The Jasad Heir blazes with rich worldbuilding, compelling characters and magic that will leave you singed.
“One day, I would stand trial before the spirits of my dead. One day, the bodies I never buried would call upon me to answer for my sins. One day, but not today.”
ARC provided by Nazia at Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the copy! All quotes used are taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
The Jasad Heir is out 20th July 2023
June 14, 2025
2nd read [June 13, 2025]: 5⭐
arin & sylvia own my heart and soul😭 they better get a HEA in TJC or i will be beyond devastated
1st read [March 18, 2024]: 5⭐
the way my heart is beating so fast because um THAT ENDING??? im both excited and absolutely *terrified* for book 2. i need some news ANY NEWS PLEASE on a release date, how am i expected to wait?? you cannot make these characters and story have such a hold on me and expect me to be okay without book 2 in my hands right now. i am broken.
from the very first chapter, The Jasad Heir immediately gripped me and caught me in its thralls. (like come on, how is it not hot for Sylvia to break a man's back in such a brutal way?? yes you read that right. girls covering up their murders!!! we love to see it and what a way to get someone hooked!!) but truly not one moment was i bored and was completely at these characters' mercy, your honor i am OBSESSED. the writing, the plot, the magic, the characters, the romance--literally everything about this story was so compelling and beautifully written, there is no doubt that this book has put me in a slump and i eagerly welcome this for once because i do not want to move on anytime soon. this is 100% an all time favourite book of mine. i mean i loved this so much that even before finishing it as i neared the end, i immediately ordered the Illumicrate edition because i absolutely need a SE of this masterpiece. i will most certainly be rereading The Jasad Heir so many times, which makes it all the more perfect because its THAT kind of book: one that can be reread over and over and you never get tired of it. if this doesnt tell you how loved this book is to me, then don't worry im not done.
it's impossible to write this review and not speak of the characters. Sylvia, my fierce, ruthless, gorgeous queen. i would lay down my life for her in a heartbeat, i just love every part of her. her strengths, her weaknesses, how she copes by rambling or making jokes, how she loves so fiercely despite trying not to show it, how she longs for a peaceful life where there are no expectations of her, how even when she tries to not feel the guilt it claws at her like it would any human, how hard she tries to build walls around feeling any sort or attachment for anything or anyone but really she feels so alone and theres so many layers of trauma and distrust to unpack my heart breaks for her. it's how she's so strong and cool and even in the face of her fear she fights. its how she has the temper of a deranged goose and its really such another lovable quality of her😂❤ and how her dry sarcasm and jokes are actually FUNNY?? the amount of times I laughed bye I dont think I've read about a FMC that's made me laugh this many times, really what's not to love about her? i'm probably missing many other beautiful qualities in Sylvia, but truly her character is such a delight and feels so real, I just want to give her a big hug. It's no wonder Sefa and Marek were so willing to lay down their lives for her I mean who wouldn't?? and no surprise that a *certain* heir fell for Sylvia completely👀
which brings me to the other new love of my life: Arin of Nizhal!! From the moment he stabbed Sylvia in the leg and arm standing atop a horse saddle near the edge of a cliff... i knew it was true love. i too would happily be stabbed by Arin. and then when he caught her before she fell into the river, shielding her from any further damage, i was absolutely even more sure🥰
IM NOT BEING SARCASTIC BTW I LOVE HIM SO WHOLEHEARTEDLY. if that makes me completely unhinged, i welcome that. but truly his character is so!!! his need for organization, his attention to detail, his politeness, his brilliant mind, his bluntness, the dangerous air surrounding him,how hot he is--im completely at his mercy. there are so many layers to Arin's character and every time a piece of his guard broke, a new side of him was revealed and i just melted. like Arin's eyes softening?? i stopped breathing. Arin smiling?? i died. Arin laughing?? KILLED ME. Arin BLUSHING?$@#! just rip my heart of my chest already.
and THIS is what I call a true enemies to lovers marketed correctly!! not the "enemies to lovers" that's really hate to love and they're "enemies" but constantly think about how attractive the other is. i need that muderous tension between them!! i need that constant thinking of "oh how i want to kill him/her". the bloodthirstiness!! the electric and dangerous tension!! and it so served here.
Arin and Sylvia's dynamic was absolutely delicious and so so well written, the slowww burn was truly everything and their chemistry (THE ANGST??) was pure perfection. i would change nothing. (in fact please give me more i'm starving for more ArinSylvia scenes, my greedy, hopeless heart is begging for it) the way Arin was caught folding her clothes, handling her belongings with thoughtfulness and care and then Sylvia noticing that when Arin was in a good mood he ate with his right hand, and left when in a bad mood i mean just???🥹 her "Why do I even remember that?" please they are so gone for each other.
also shoutout to the side characters whom i adore!! Sefa and Marek are the best friends a person could have, they're so sweet i love love loveee them and no harm had better come to these two or there will be therapy bills to pay!! Wes and Jeru were also interesting and funny guards, and i cant wait to see more of them, and hopefully less of a *certain* guard although i know that's very unlikely unfortunately.
truly The Jasad Heir is a book i highly HIGHLY recommend to anyone who wants an enriching and true dynamic in enemies to lovers, with well written characters, magic, plot and politics. i still cannot believe that ending, it wrecked me and i knew it was coming but the way it came?? im destroyed, please take me back. i will be suffering in wait for the next 9735972 days on news of book 2's release and will definitely be rereading this book many times. hell, i already am resisting the urge to do a reread right away--another sign of this book's magnificence.
Arin and Sylvia, my OTP <3
10 billion stars⭐
arin & sylvia own my heart and soul😭 they better get a HEA in TJC or i will be beyond devastated
1st read [March 18, 2024]: 5⭐
"His will is strong. It always is, in the self-righteous.”
“But the will of the damned is even stronger.”
the way my heart is beating so fast because um THAT ENDING??? im both excited and absolutely *terrified* for book 2. i need some news ANY NEWS PLEASE on a release date, how am i expected to wait?? you cannot make these characters and story have such a hold on me and expect me to be okay without book 2 in my hands right now. i am broken.
"When you choose who you are willing to fight for, you choose who you are."
from the very first chapter, The Jasad Heir immediately gripped me and caught me in its thralls. (like come on, how is it not hot for Sylvia to break a man's back in such a brutal way?? yes you read that right. girls covering up their murders!!! we love to see it and what a way to get someone hooked!!) but truly not one moment was i bored and was completely at these characters' mercy, your honor i am OBSESSED. the writing, the plot, the magic, the characters, the romance--literally everything about this story was so compelling and beautifully written, there is no doubt that this book has put me in a slump and i eagerly welcome this for once because i do not want to move on anytime soon. this is 100% an all time favourite book of mine. i mean i loved this so much that even before finishing it as i neared the end, i immediately ordered the Illumicrate edition because i absolutely need a SE of this masterpiece. i will most certainly be rereading The Jasad Heir so many times, which makes it all the more perfect because its THAT kind of book: one that can be reread over and over and you never get tired of it. if this doesnt tell you how loved this book is to me, then don't worry im not done.
She had the temperament of a deranged goose. Every interaction he’d shared with her had thoroughly convinced him he was not dealing with a stable woman.
it's impossible to write this review and not speak of the characters. Sylvia, my fierce, ruthless, gorgeous queen. i would lay down my life for her in a heartbeat, i just love every part of her. her strengths, her weaknesses, how she copes by rambling or making jokes, how she loves so fiercely despite trying not to show it, how she longs for a peaceful life where there are no expectations of her, how even when she tries to not feel the guilt it claws at her like it would any human, how hard she tries to build walls around feeling any sort or attachment for anything or anyone but really she feels so alone and theres so many layers of trauma and distrust to unpack my heart breaks for her. it's how she's so strong and cool and even in the face of her fear she fights. its how she has the temper of a deranged goose and its really such another lovable quality of her😂❤ and how her dry sarcasm and jokes are actually FUNNY?? the amount of times I laughed bye I dont think I've read about a FMC that's made me laugh this many times, really what's not to love about her? i'm probably missing many other beautiful qualities in Sylvia, but truly her character is such a delight and feels so real, I just want to give her a big hug. It's no wonder Sefa and Marek were so willing to lay down their lives for her I mean who wouldn't?? and no surprise that a *certain* heir fell for Sylvia completely👀
“Arin is consumed by what he loves. If asked, he would get on his knees and let it kill him. He withholds his heart out of self-preservation."
which brings me to the other new love of my life: Arin of Nizhal!! From the moment he stabbed Sylvia in the leg and arm standing atop a horse saddle near the edge of a cliff... i knew it was true love. i too would happily be stabbed by Arin. and then when he caught her before she fell into the river, shielding her from any further damage, i was absolutely even more sure🥰
IM NOT BEING SARCASTIC BTW I LOVE HIM SO WHOLEHEARTEDLY. if that makes me completely unhinged, i welcome that. but truly his character is so!!! his need for organization, his attention to detail, his politeness, his brilliant mind, his bluntness, the dangerous air surrounding him,
and THIS is what I call a true enemies to lovers marketed correctly!! not the "enemies to lovers" that's really hate to love and they're "enemies" but constantly think about how attractive the other is. i need that muderous tension between them!! i need that constant thinking of "oh how i want to kill him/her". the bloodthirstiness!! the electric and dangerous tension!! and it so served here.
The way he looks you at sometimes. Like you are a cliff with a fatal fall, and each day you move him closer to its edge.
Arin and Sylvia's dynamic was absolutely delicious and so so well written, the slowww burn was truly everything and their chemistry (THE ANGST??) was pure perfection. i would change nothing. (in fact please give me more i'm starving for more ArinSylvia scenes, my greedy, hopeless heart is begging for it) the way Arin was caught folding her clothes, handling her belongings with thoughtfulness and care and then Sylvia noticing that when Arin was in a good mood he ate with his right hand, and left when in a bad mood i mean just???🥹 her "Why do I even remember that?" please they are so gone for each other.
Love was not submission. It was not testing how far I could bend before I broke. Love was Sefa’s hand finding mine in the dark to reassure herself of my presence. Love was Marek entering the kingdom of his nightmares to help me.
also shoutout to the side characters whom i adore!! Sefa and Marek are the best friends a person could have, they're so sweet i love love loveee them and no harm had better come to these two or there will be therapy bills to pay!! Wes and Jeru were also interesting and funny guards, and i cant wait to see more of them, and hopefully less of a *certain* guard although i know that's very unlikely unfortunately.
truly The Jasad Heir is a book i highly HIGHLY recommend to anyone who wants an enriching and true dynamic in enemies to lovers, with well written characters, magic, plot and politics. i still cannot believe that ending, it wrecked me and i knew it was coming but the way it came?? im destroyed, please take me back. i will be suffering in wait for the next 9735972 days on news of book 2's release and will definitely be rereading this book many times. hell, i already am resisting the urge to do a reread right away--another sign of this book's magnificence.
Arin and Sylvia, my OTP <3
10 billion stars⭐
September 3, 2023
ur actually joking. this book was life changing
August 3, 2024
3 stars
i'm very conflicted over this one.
i loved the writing style, even if the pace did feel a bit slow at times, i loved the fmc, sylvia, even if her characterisation didn't completely make sense at times. i loved the setting and the atmosphere, and the way the world was written. however, i really disliked the romance subplot. the romance was cute, but it felt eerily like a coloniser romance story, which just felt very icky to me. i know that this wasn't exactly a romantasy either, but it really did feel like it.
also there were so many similarities to powerless?! bar the love triangle, the plot lowkey felt the same (three trials etc) but i preferred this 10000x more.
thank you to netgalley for an arc <3
꒰ 🧸 ⊹˚. tbr review:
i've heard a lottt about this book (and not all good things) but it's by a hijabi arab author and i have to give it a go + i got an arc and it's part of project 2023 choice awards that i decided to do for some reason
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc <33
i'm very conflicted over this one.
i loved the writing style, even if the pace did feel a bit slow at times, i loved the fmc, sylvia, even if her characterisation didn't completely make sense at times. i loved the setting and the atmosphere, and the way the world was written. however, i really disliked the romance subplot. the romance was cute, but it felt eerily like a coloniser romance story, which just felt very icky to me. i know that this wasn't exactly a romantasy either, but it really did feel like it.
also there were so many similarities to powerless?! bar the love triangle, the plot lowkey felt the same (three trials etc) but i preferred this 10000x more.
thank you to netgalley for an arc <3
꒰ 🧸 ⊹˚. tbr review:
i've heard a lottt about this book (and not all good things) but it's by a hijabi arab author and i have to give it a go + i got an arc and it's part of project 2023 choice awards that i decided to do for some reason
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc <33
Read
September 5, 2023THIS WAS SO GOOD I NEED BOOK TWO IMMINENTLY 😭
May 19, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!!
I am feral I have never needed a second book more in my life please
This book was, hands down, one of the absolute best fantasies that I've read this year. The characters were stellar, the enemies to allies to friends to enemies to whatever they ended as was absolutely wild and the tension was insane, the twists gave me whiplash, the world-building was done so well, and the writing was amazing. I honestly couldn't believe this was a debut, it was so good! The fact that I don't have the second book right now is a crime; I cannot wait to see where the author takes the next book, and would 100% recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy.
I am feral I have never needed a second book more in my life please
This book was, hands down, one of the absolute best fantasies that I've read this year. The characters were stellar, the enemies to allies to friends to enemies to whatever they ended as was absolutely wild and the tension was insane, the twists gave me whiplash, the world-building was done so well, and the writing was amazing. I honestly couldn't believe this was a debut, it was so good! The fact that I don't have the second book right now is a crime; I cannot wait to see where the author takes the next book, and would 100% recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy.
April 16, 2025
Arab American Heritage Month #1
I'm not familiar enough with Egyptian mythology to know who are the colonizers/colonized in this book, but I'm not even offended by that. I'm mostly offended by the side character named Wes. IYKYK
Sylvia, who has at least two other names, is the colonized, and the . Who knew? Possibly everyone.
She and her captor, Arin, fall for each other. This isn't even a spoiler. It's the most obvious thing in the world. I'm not sure if the Arab girlies are as offended by this as I am by every East Asian colonizer romance I've read lately (sadly of which there are many), so I'll let them tell you that, but just know I was more bored than offended. And that's telling.
🥃 Take a shot every time a colonizer romance is categorized as enemies to lovers
🥃 Take a shot every time a character is named after a man you’ve dated
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit
I'm not familiar enough with Egyptian mythology to know who are the colonizers/colonized in this book, but I'm not even offended by that. I'm mostly offended by the side character named Wes. IYKYK
Sylvia, who has at least two other names, is the colonized, and the . Who knew? Possibly everyone.
She and her captor, Arin, fall for each other. This isn't even a spoiler. It's the most obvious thing in the world. I'm not sure if the Arab girlies are as offended by this as I am by every East Asian colonizer romance I've read lately (sadly of which there are many), so I'll let them tell you that, but just know I was more bored than offended. And that's telling.
🥃 Take a shot every time a colonizer romance is categorized as enemies to lovers
🥃 Take a shot every time a character is named after a man you’ve dated
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit
July 13, 2023
I thought this was a fantastic debut by Sara Hashem. Exciting, immersive, and full of twists and turns, the novel gripped me from the first pages and didn’t let go until the very end.
This is one of those reviews where I struggled to organize my thoughts. I enjoyed so many elements of the book that I wasn’t sure what to focus on in my review without giving too much away. The characters, the world-building, the fantasy elements, the themes, the plot, the gorgeous writing style – I loved it all! I actually have another post scheduled that spotlights a bunch of my favorite quotes from the book because there were so many poignant and powerful lines.
And the characters! They’re fascinating. Often torn between loyalties, Sylvia, Arin, and so many others have a moral greyness to them. I loved Sylvia. The story is told from her unreliable perspective, and her story is tragic, complicated, and mysterious. This is a young woman with a ton of secrets, many of which would put her life at risk if exposed. I like how we slowly learn more and more about her past and what happened to her that led to the present. There’s also a strong cast of supporting characters, and I particularly like Sylvia’s friends and the found family aspect of the story.
And the romance! Ahh! I, of course, have to talk about the explosive enemies-to-lovers romance because IT. WAS. EVERYTHING. Sylvia and Arin hate each other, and they butt heads through most of the book. Their relationship is slow-building and contentious, and the tension is so thick! Through it all, Sylvia and Arin have an amazing amount of chemistry, and their banter is top-notch. I’m all for an angsty love story, especially when it feels forbidden, which is exactly what Sylvia and Arin’s feels like. Both characters fight their feelings, but how can you fight something so strong? There are so many scenes where I was all but chanting “Kiss already,” and the build-up and constant push and pull between the couple was perfection.
The Jasad Heir has everything I love in a YA romantasy. I’m so glad I buddy read this because I was screaming through most of it. Between the layered and nuanced characters, the twisty plot, the complex world-building and political intrigue, and that fantastic romance, there was a lot to gush and ruminate about! There are also some really thought-provoking messages and questions posed throughout the story about what makes a monster, how people define themselves, and what we owe our country and our culture. This is definitely a strong introduction to the series. And after that ending, I NEED to get the next book ASAP! lol This is definitely going down as one of my top fantasy reads of the year.
Thanks so much to Orbit books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
This is one of those reviews where I struggled to organize my thoughts. I enjoyed so many elements of the book that I wasn’t sure what to focus on in my review without giving too much away. The characters, the world-building, the fantasy elements, the themes, the plot, the gorgeous writing style – I loved it all! I actually have another post scheduled that spotlights a bunch of my favorite quotes from the book because there were so many poignant and powerful lines.
And the characters! They’re fascinating. Often torn between loyalties, Sylvia, Arin, and so many others have a moral greyness to them. I loved Sylvia. The story is told from her unreliable perspective, and her story is tragic, complicated, and mysterious. This is a young woman with a ton of secrets, many of which would put her life at risk if exposed. I like how we slowly learn more and more about her past and what happened to her that led to the present. There’s also a strong cast of supporting characters, and I particularly like Sylvia’s friends and the found family aspect of the story.
And the romance! Ahh! I, of course, have to talk about the explosive enemies-to-lovers romance because IT. WAS. EVERYTHING. Sylvia and Arin hate each other, and they butt heads through most of the book. Their relationship is slow-building and contentious, and the tension is so thick! Through it all, Sylvia and Arin have an amazing amount of chemistry, and their banter is top-notch. I’m all for an angsty love story, especially when it feels forbidden, which is exactly what Sylvia and Arin’s feels like. Both characters fight their feelings, but how can you fight something so strong? There are so many scenes where I was all but chanting “Kiss already,” and the build-up and constant push and pull between the couple was perfection.
The Jasad Heir has everything I love in a YA romantasy. I’m so glad I buddy read this because I was screaming through most of it. Between the layered and nuanced characters, the twisty plot, the complex world-building and political intrigue, and that fantastic romance, there was a lot to gush and ruminate about! There are also some really thought-provoking messages and questions posed throughout the story about what makes a monster, how people define themselves, and what we owe our country and our culture. This is definitely a strong introduction to the series. And after that ending, I NEED to get the next book ASAP! lol This is definitely going down as one of my top fantasy reads of the year.
Thanks so much to Orbit books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
April 22, 2025
5⭐️| TikTok | IG |
I deserve to be thrown into one of Vaida's wells for waiting so long to read this.
This was PHENOMENAL!
Enemies to lovers, where the MMC fixing her collar has me screaming, giggling, and kicking my feet!
The angst in this is so freaking good.
Whats to love...
- TRUE enemies to lovers
- the ANGST
- the BANTER
- SLOW BURN
- EPIC FOUND FAMILY
- reluctant hero / secret heir
- rich, well-developed world with magic, monsters, gods, and political intrigue
- TALL STRONG AND GENERALLY BADASS FMC
- stoic and uber controlled MMC (those are my favorite)
- well placed dual POVs (you get a sprinkle of the MMCs POV, just enough to satiate, but not so much there isn’t mystery)
- in-depth characters
- a sprinkle of trials/competition (the right amount imo, but might not be a heavy enough plot-point for some)
What’s not to love…
I loved it all - I thought this was so well done! That said, here are some things to consideration.
- imo, this is fantasy with a romantic subplot rather than a true romantasy. The plot of this book would stand on its own without the romance but DAMN does the romance make it SO much better.
- this leans character-driven, but emphasis on the lean. It has plenty of plot and is generally very well paced, but those that crave a plot-driven book might find this book won’t work for them.
- This is the type of fantasy book where the world-building leaves you a little confused at first, rather than info-dumping on you. I personally prefer this, but you have to be comfortable not having all the answers up front to really enjoy this.
- This is book 1 in a duology, so even after all the reveals there are still unanswered questions. Lucky for you Book 2 comes out in July, so you won’t need to wait long.
GO READ THIS BOOK!
Also, I would like to formally apologize to Kriste and Erin for waiting so long when both of you were screaming about how good this is. I am sorry, it won’t happen again.
I deserve to be thrown into one of Vaida's wells for waiting so long to read this.
This was PHENOMENAL!
Enemies to lovers, where the MMC fixing her collar has me screaming, giggling, and kicking my feet!
The angst in this is so freaking good.
Whats to love...
- TRUE enemies to lovers
- the ANGST
- the BANTER
- SLOW BURN
- EPIC FOUND FAMILY
- reluctant hero / secret heir
- rich, well-developed world with magic, monsters, gods, and political intrigue
- TALL STRONG AND GENERALLY BADASS FMC
- stoic and uber controlled MMC (those are my favorite)
- well placed dual POVs (you get a sprinkle of the MMCs POV, just enough to satiate, but not so much there isn’t mystery)
- in-depth characters
- a sprinkle of trials/competition (the right amount imo, but might not be a heavy enough plot-point for some)
What’s not to love…
I loved it all - I thought this was so well done! That said, here are some things to consideration.
- imo, this is fantasy with a romantic subplot rather than a true romantasy. The plot of this book would stand on its own without the romance but DAMN does the romance make it SO much better.
- this leans character-driven, but emphasis on the lean. It has plenty of plot and is generally very well paced, but those that crave a plot-driven book might find this book won’t work for them.
- This is the type of fantasy book where the world-building leaves you a little confused at first, rather than info-dumping on you. I personally prefer this, but you have to be comfortable not having all the answers up front to really enjoy this.
- This is book 1 in a duology, so even after all the reveals there are still unanswered questions. Lucky for you Book 2 comes out in July, so you won’t need to wait long.
GO READ THIS BOOK!
Also, I would like to formally apologize to Kriste and Erin for waiting so long when both of you were screaming about how good this is. I am sorry, it won’t happen again.
August 22, 2023
I NEED EVERYONE TO DROP THEIR CURRENT READ AND PICK THIS UP. IMMEDIATELY.
I finished this last night, and my jaw is still on the floor. This is HANDS DOWN one of the best debuts I've ever read, and it will absolutely be in my top 3 books of 2023. The Jasad Heir could not have been better. I went into this with zero expectations - I read a few high praised reviews, but pretty much jumped in blind. I was hooked from page one, and there was no turning back.
Sylvia and Arin are two of the best MC's I've read about in years. I will say nothing else about their relationship because it's truly best to experience it by reading it yourself.
The magic, politics, and history are so unique and immersive within this world. I can't wait to reread this and pick up on all the things I missed the first time around.
The ending is brutal in the absolute best way possible. I am in DESPERATE need of book two.
I finished this last night, and my jaw is still on the floor. This is HANDS DOWN one of the best debuts I've ever read, and it will absolutely be in my top 3 books of 2023. The Jasad Heir could not have been better. I went into this with zero expectations - I read a few high praised reviews, but pretty much jumped in blind. I was hooked from page one, and there was no turning back.
Sylvia and Arin are two of the best MC's I've read about in years. I will say nothing else about their relationship because it's truly best to experience it by reading it yourself.
The magic, politics, and history are so unique and immersive within this world. I can't wait to reread this and pick up on all the things I missed the first time around.
The ending is brutal in the absolute best way possible. I am in DESPERATE need of book two.
August 21, 2023
OBSESSED with this fantastic start to a series, which had me hooked from page one. While it dipped a little in the middle, the last 15% more than made up for it. Looking for a real enemies-to-lovers with political intrigue, courtly scheming, forbidden magic, a lost princess and plenty of mortal peril? The Jasad Heir has all that and more. Highly recommend it to everyone who needs a gripping adult fantasy to sink their teeth into.
August 7, 2023
Egyptian inspired political enemies to lovers fantasy by a Muslim author
My favourite quote:
"She had the temperament of a deranged goose. Every interaction he'd shared with her had thoroughly convinced him he was not dealing with a stable woman."
Also not the dedication having my name, never happened to me before
My favourite quote:
"She had the temperament of a deranged goose. Every interaction he'd shared with her had thoroughly convinced him he was not dealing with a stable woman."
Also not the dedication having my name, never happened to me before
October 18, 2023
Initial Reaction: I have… thoughts
Okay, let me get started with one of my favorite parts of this book: the EGYPTIAN REP!! I am an Egyptian American and while I have been fortunate to find Muslim and Arab rep in the books I read, it's been harder to find Egyptian rep. This book nailed it on the head, I was SO happy to see my culture on the page and it was done beautifully. I laughed so hard at the "birds' tongue soup" joke because I had the same exact experience growing up. I can never speak enough about how special it is to read your experiences and feel represented on the page, it's one of the best feelings.
Moving on, I did feel that overall the book needs a little more editing. Like everything just needed to be polished and pulled together. It is a debut and it reads that way. It needed to flow better. I'm hoping to see the writing improve in the next book because the potential to be a 4 or 5 star read is there.
I had heard that this book has a "colonizer romance" and honestly it's what made me delay reading it for so long. I will say it's not as bad as you might think when you hear those words but I'm still super iffy on the romance as a whole. I think nationalities aside, they would make for a great enemies to lovers, but as I'm reading, I can't forget that Arin is the Heir of the kingdom that destroyed Jasad. I'm leaving my opinion on this romance open minded because I can see the potential for a great pairing but I need massive development from Arin (and Sylvia).
Side note: I don't know why we've seen so many colonizer romances this year. Authors, y'all can write tension without this dynamic. Just make them from opposing kingdoms. Why does his kingdom have to be colonizing hers?
Speaking of Sylvia, I'm back and forth on her character. Sometimes I love her, but most of the time she frustrated me. She has a lot of feelings towards Jasad and I don't completely agree with them, neither do I fully understand her motivations. I understand wanting to distance yourself from the past but I wanted more. All that said, with the way the book ended, I could see Sylvia fully embracing herself and her identity in the next book and I hope it goes that way!
Overall, this book was good! I had a decent time and I DO recommend it to everyone looking for an adult fantasy and Egyptian rep!
TW: colonization, grief, murder, violence, mentions of torture, discrimination
I received an arc of this title from Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, let me get started with one of my favorite parts of this book: the EGYPTIAN REP!! I am an Egyptian American and while I have been fortunate to find Muslim and Arab rep in the books I read, it's been harder to find Egyptian rep. This book nailed it on the head, I was SO happy to see my culture on the page and it was done beautifully. I laughed so hard at the "birds' tongue soup" joke because I had the same exact experience growing up. I can never speak enough about how special it is to read your experiences and feel represented on the page, it's one of the best feelings.
Moving on, I did feel that overall the book needs a little more editing. Like everything just needed to be polished and pulled together. It is a debut and it reads that way. It needed to flow better. I'm hoping to see the writing improve in the next book because the potential to be a 4 or 5 star read is there.
I had heard that this book has a "colonizer romance" and honestly it's what made me delay reading it for so long. I will say it's not as bad as you might think when you hear those words but I'm still super iffy on the romance as a whole. I think nationalities aside, they would make for a great enemies to lovers, but as I'm reading, I can't forget that Arin is the Heir of the kingdom that destroyed Jasad. I'm leaving my opinion on this romance open minded because I can see the potential for a great pairing but I need massive development from Arin (and Sylvia).
Side note: I don't know why we've seen so many colonizer romances this year. Authors, y'all can write tension without this dynamic. Just make them from opposing kingdoms. Why does his kingdom have to be colonizing hers?
Speaking of Sylvia, I'm back and forth on her character. Sometimes I love her, but most of the time she frustrated me. She has a lot of feelings towards Jasad and I don't completely agree with them, neither do I fully understand her motivations. I understand wanting to distance yourself from the past but I wanted more. All that said, with the way the book ended, I could see Sylvia fully embracing herself and her identity in the next book and I hope it goes that way!
Overall, this book was good! I had a decent time and I DO recommend it to everyone looking for an adult fantasy and Egyptian rep!
TW: colonization, grief, murder, violence, mentions of torture, discrimination
I received an arc of this title from Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
2023 is truly the year of amazing books, and The Jasad Heir definitely earns its place on my Best Reads list! 🙌📚
Here are my top 3 reasons for this 5-star rating:
✨ The Writing
From the very first page, the writing had me hooked. The way Sara Hashem explains the world-building and seamlessly transitions between different settings, characters, and cultures is simply marvelous. This book takes us to so many different places, each with its own distinct vibe, and we’re immersed in all of them. 🌍
⚡️ The Plot
Absolutely BRILLIANT. There wasn’t a single dull moment in this book. The continuous discovery of new information and the subtle plot twists kept me on my toes—it was exhilarating! The magic system is also intricate and mysterious, revealing itself little by little with each page. And let’s not forget the trial trope in the last third of the book, which I absolutely loved. I would’ve enjoyed it being introduced a bit earlier, but that’s just my personal preference. 🔮💥
❤️ The Characters
Easy to love (and sometimes hate), the characters have multiple layers that unfold as the story progresses.
🗡️ Sylva: The perfect FMC—slightly unhinged at times, she starts off closed-off and selfish but learns to fight for what she loves, with the help of her two (unwanted) best friends and a brooding Commander.
⚔️ Arin: Mysterious, calculating, broody, and ruthless, yet also attentive, caring, and driven.
🌗 I loved the “day and night” contrast between Sylva and Arin. He’s pale, she has dark skin. He’s quiet, she rambles. He’s the Heir of Nizahl, she’s the Heir of Jasad. Such a beautifully crafted dynamic! 😍
The only small note I have is the sheer number of names—at times, I struggled to keep track of who was who. But that aside, this is a stunning book, especially for a debut novel!
Sara Hashem deserves all the hype for this one! 🎉🔥
For more bookish content follow me on instagram at@onetoomanybooks.ac 💫📚
2023 is truly the year of amazing books, and The Jasad Heir definitely earns its place on my Best Reads list! 🙌📚
Here are my top 3 reasons for this 5-star rating:
✨ The Writing
From the very first page, the writing had me hooked. The way Sara Hashem explains the world-building and seamlessly transitions between different settings, characters, and cultures is simply marvelous. This book takes us to so many different places, each with its own distinct vibe, and we’re immersed in all of them. 🌍
⚡️ The Plot
Absolutely BRILLIANT. There wasn’t a single dull moment in this book. The continuous discovery of new information and the subtle plot twists kept me on my toes—it was exhilarating! The magic system is also intricate and mysterious, revealing itself little by little with each page. And let’s not forget the trial trope in the last third of the book, which I absolutely loved. I would’ve enjoyed it being introduced a bit earlier, but that’s just my personal preference. 🔮💥
❤️ The Characters
Easy to love (and sometimes hate), the characters have multiple layers that unfold as the story progresses.
🗡️ Sylva: The perfect FMC—slightly unhinged at times, she starts off closed-off and selfish but learns to fight for what she loves, with the help of her two (unwanted) best friends and a brooding Commander.
⚔️ Arin: Mysterious, calculating, broody, and ruthless, yet also attentive, caring, and driven.
🌗 I loved the “day and night” contrast between Sylva and Arin. He’s pale, she has dark skin. He’s quiet, she rambles. He’s the Heir of Nizahl, she’s the Heir of Jasad. Such a beautifully crafted dynamic! 😍
The only small note I have is the sheer number of names—at times, I struggled to keep track of who was who. But that aside, this is a stunning book, especially for a debut novel!
Sara Hashem deserves all the hype for this one! 🎉🔥
For more bookish content follow me on instagram at@onetoomanybooks.ac 💫📚
October 6, 2024
3.5 🌟
“There is no such thing as a worthy sacrifice. There are only those who die, and those willing to let them.”
Egyptian inspired compelling romantasy debut with a morally gray, strong willed protagonist who’s warring with ambivalent conflicting loyalty for a tortured past and a complex emotional slow burn developing romance with her formidable enemy. Rich prose, efficient world building, forbidden sorcery, prejudiced political rivalries, delightful repartee will keep the reader hooked and looking forward to the next book in the series.
“There is no such thing as a worthy sacrifice. There are only those who die, and those willing to let them.”
Egyptian inspired compelling romantasy debut with a morally gray, strong willed protagonist who’s warring with ambivalent conflicting loyalty for a tortured past and a complex emotional slow burn developing romance with her formidable enemy. Rich prose, efficient world building, forbidden sorcery, prejudiced political rivalries, delightful repartee will keep the reader hooked and looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 4, 2024
Strong start in the first 25%, but it didn't really feel like it went anywhere. Very YA fantasy coded and as things lingered on as I waited for the trials, it made me think about how a lot of the math for the geopolitics didn't add up
April 26, 2025
🪡 # 2.75
⌜ after a lifetime of running,
⠀ ⠀ he was my homecoming. ⌟
﹡
the enemies-to-lovers dynamic was perfectly on brand — they were stabbing each other left and right, and i’m honestly amazed none of them ended up with iron deficiency.
the concept was engaging, but the pacing felt uneven at times, and i frequently had to consult skylar just to keep track of who was who. i was often confused, especially with some character motivations and plot twists that didn’t quite make sense. if sky didn’t walk me through it, i probably would’ve missed half of what was happening.
i’m not egyptian, so i can’t speak on the rep, but i’ve seen others praise it for its accuracy. now i really want to get more into the mytholygy.
the trial, which was built up as a key moment, felt rushed and ultimately didn’t have the impact i was expecting. it‘s more like an afterthought really.
⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ “there is no such thing as a worthy sacrifice. ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ there are only those who die,
⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ and those willing to let them.”
i can’t speak much on the romance, but i do feel very inclined to read the sequel, as i have so many questions after that ending???
⠀⠀ ⊹ that said, for a debut novel, it shows strong ⠀ ⠀ potential and lays a solid foundation for future works.
i can see how this could be 3.5 stars for someone else, maybe even higher. i need to revisit this book someday, when my brain isn’t so scattered.
p.s. mareksefa my beloved. ❦
⌜ after a lifetime of running,
⠀ ⠀ he was my homecoming. ⌟
﹡
the enemies-to-lovers dynamic was perfectly on brand — they were stabbing each other left and right, and i’m honestly amazed none of them ended up with iron deficiency.
the concept was engaging, but the pacing felt uneven at times, and i frequently had to consult skylar just to keep track of who was who. i was often confused, especially with some character motivations and plot twists that didn’t quite make sense. if sky didn’t walk me through it, i probably would’ve missed half of what was happening.
i’m not egyptian, so i can’t speak on the rep, but i’ve seen others praise it for its accuracy. now i really want to get more into the mytholygy.
the trial, which was built up as a key moment, felt rushed and ultimately didn’t have the impact i was expecting. it‘s more like an afterthought really.
⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ “there is no such thing as a worthy sacrifice. ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ there are only those who die,
⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ and those willing to let them.”
i can’t speak much on the romance, but i do feel very inclined to read the sequel, as i have so many questions after that ending???
⠀⠀ ⊹ that said, for a debut novel, it shows strong ⠀ ⠀ potential and lays a solid foundation for future works.
i can see how this could be 3.5 stars for someone else, maybe even higher. i need to revisit this book someday, when my brain isn’t so scattered.
p.s. mareksefa my beloved. ❦
November 17, 2023
3.5 Stars
Video Review: https://youtu.be/8VKj00tz9b0
This was a familiar, yet enjoyable epic fantasy story. The narrative felt a fair bit trope but they happened to be tropes I liked.
As someone who enjoys diverse stories, I enjoyed the Egyptian inspired worldbuilding in this novel.
The characters were fairly interesting but sometimes felt a bit young which made this adult fiction book feel like a YA crossover.
Overall, I liked most aspects of this book and am interested enough to continue on with this series. I would recommend it to readers looking to read a diverse, yet familiar piece of epic fantasy.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/8VKj00tz9b0
This was a familiar, yet enjoyable epic fantasy story. The narrative felt a fair bit trope but they happened to be tropes I liked.
As someone who enjoys diverse stories, I enjoyed the Egyptian inspired worldbuilding in this novel.
The characters were fairly interesting but sometimes felt a bit young which made this adult fiction book feel like a YA crossover.
Overall, I liked most aspects of this book and am interested enough to continue on with this series. I would recommend it to readers looking to read a diverse, yet familiar piece of epic fantasy.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
April 6, 2024
Enemies to Lovers at its finest
Setting it up!
⚜Theme: Epic cultural Fantasy with a hint of romance
⚜Characters: Jasadis (magic wielders) and humans
⚜TW: a lot! A whole fucking lot! violence- child rape - torture - abuse - and many more
⚜ tropes: chosen one (I think)- Enemies to Lovers (but not the main focus)
⚜ POV: one POV (with three chapters only from Arin's)
⚜ spice: 1/2 🌶 it's mostly NA, but there is a scene at the end
⚜ rating: 4.25🌟🌟🌟🌟🔅
⚜standalone: no, part of a series
⚜Ending: cliffhanger
Main characters
Sylvia
Arin
I started this book about two weeks ago, read about 50 pages, then had to stop because of my job commitment. I picked up yesterday, and when I tell you I couldn't put it down I mean I slept two hours then woke up at dawn to continue reading couldn't put it.
I even forgot to share many updates on GR.
Please note that this is a spoiler-free review but there will be a disclaimer at the end that may contain spoilers
The Story
The ruler of Nizahl saw that any person who used magic was an abomination. So he declared war on the Kingdom of Jasad, got rid of the royal family, persecuted any Jasadi, and his Heir, Arin, hunted any fleeing Jasadi.
Sylvia is hiding out the fact that she is a Jasadi, and something else. When she has a fateful encounter with Arin and he chooses her to be his Champion for the Alcalah trials, her fate is set.
The overall story itself is not new. An heir hiding in disguise falls under the hands of her nemesis while discovering who she truly is.
however, it's the setting and the cultural references that make this story special. The use of all the Egyptian lures and words made it all the better.
The political undertone and allusion to actual incidents in history elevated the plot into a beautiful read.
"Children are not meant to bear the woes of this life, Sylvia. It breaks them. They will spend their adult lives doing everything in their power to never feel the weight of the world again"
this quote is very important later in the plot twists
Fast Pace
I've seen some 1 star reviews here saying that nothing happens in the book! I mean they are entitled to their opinion, but seriously! Did they read the book?
Almost every chapter something happens
from the very one
and they made it seem like the trials did not occure! All three trials took place in the book
The story takes you from one plot twist to another with surprising turns of events
The characters
Sylvia may appear as this passive, aloof, and stoic character. But who could blame her? the life she had, and the things she'd seen would make anyone think a hundred times before cracking a smile
and still, she delivers some burn responses that left me smiling
the sole company I'm permitted to keep is the handful of soldiers whose conversational skills peaked in the womb
Arin, just like Sylvia, has been handed blow after blow since he was a baby. He is tasked with a heavy burden and a bit of a curse. We only get three chapters from his point of view and what he tells Sylvia, but still you get the sense that he is harboring a great plan.
He is a theorist, a schemer, and absolutely smart. Always two steps ahead of others
I hope we get more of him in his own POV in book 2
The World building
it was simple, yet understandable
it left nothing for speculations except minor questions that hinted to be solved in later books in the series.
You don't have to have a dense background on Egyptian culture to understand all the words used
As someone who is a Native speaker of Arabic and has a close connection with Egyptians, I was extremely happy reading a Fantasy where I understood everything.
I believe representation and amplifying POC writers are important
so as we read Fantasies inspired by Gaelic or Irish or English or any other culture, why not one inspired by Egyptian one?
The Enemies to Lovers
There is a misconception about this trope
little banter ≠ enemies to lovers
secretly love her ≠ enemies to lovers
rivals ≠ enemies to lovers
enemies to lovers is when they both want to literally and almost kill each other
Sylvia and Arin are from two kingdoms that hate each other
Sylvia's kingdom killed Arin's mother
Arin's kingdom wiped out Sylvia's Kingdom
at one point (I do not consider this spoiler but skip if you want) he breaks both her hands and shoots an arrow to her thigh
she almost cuts his throat and holds him at knife point twice
The wholesome kingdom (Maybe spoilers)
I loved that non of the kingdoms were pure and innocent
each kingdom and their rulers did evil things to their people
but this bears the question "is it just to wipe out entire people to punish the sins of the rulers?"
DISCLAIMER AND POSSIBLE SPOILERS
in one of my previous reviews I talked about originality and the difference between inspiration and literally taking everything from other works
When some authors are inspired by a culture, events, or other authors and their books, it is natural that we see glimpses of this in said authors' books. However, these authors still bring their own
Like when you do a fairy tale retelling, or Shakespearean retelling, or cultural fantasy, or even a realistic story based on true events
This is inspiration
It is clear that this book is inspired by
1- Egyptian Culture and History
- The sacrifices to the River
- The Mawlid
- The burial rituals
- The words used ( ya amari (my moon), halawani (the candy man), oota (tomato)...
2- The Hunger Games
the trials where each kingdom presents a champion to compete and only one Victor remains
3- Shatter Me series (and this one I did not like at all and the reason I deducted 1 star from the perfect 5)
so the main two characters
Arin = very close to Aaron. Son of the ruler. Commander of the army. White blond hair, blue eyes (Aaron has green thou). has resistance to Sylvia's magic?????
Sylvia = brunette, possesses powerful magic, reluctant to use it at first. and her name? Juliette is the main character in Shatter Me, like the Shakespeare Juliet?? Shakespeare has another very famous sonnet called "Silvia"
and the whole "if I touch her with her full power I'll die"?
IDK, maybe it was just me, but I did not like this part
Also, what up with Silver hair vs Burnett hair!!!! Is it the norm now???
But all in All, amazing book
cant wait for book 2
Setting it up!
⚜Theme: Epic cultural Fantasy with a hint of romance
⚜Characters: Jasadis (magic wielders) and humans
⚜TW: a lot! A whole fucking lot! violence- child rape - torture - abuse - and many more
⚜ tropes: chosen one (I think)- Enemies to Lovers (but not the main focus)
⚜ POV: one POV (with three chapters only from Arin's)
⚜ spice: 1/2 🌶 it's mostly NA, but there is a scene at the end
⚜ rating: 4.25🌟🌟🌟🌟🔅
⚜standalone: no, part of a series
⚜Ending: cliffhanger
Main characters
Sylvia
Arin
I started this book about two weeks ago, read about 50 pages, then had to stop because of my job commitment. I picked up yesterday, and when I tell you I couldn't put it down I mean I slept two hours then woke up at dawn to continue reading couldn't put it.
I even forgot to share many updates on GR.
Please note that this is a spoiler-free review but there will be a disclaimer at the end that may contain spoilers
The Story
The ruler of Nizahl saw that any person who used magic was an abomination. So he declared war on the Kingdom of Jasad, got rid of the royal family, persecuted any Jasadi, and his Heir, Arin, hunted any fleeing Jasadi.
Sylvia is hiding out the fact that she is a Jasadi, and something else. When she has a fateful encounter with Arin and he chooses her to be his Champion for the Alcalah trials, her fate is set.
The overall story itself is not new. An heir hiding in disguise falls under the hands of her nemesis while discovering who she truly is.
however, it's the setting and the cultural references that make this story special. The use of all the Egyptian lures and words made it all the better.
The political undertone and allusion to actual incidents in history elevated the plot into a beautiful read.
"Children are not meant to bear the woes of this life, Sylvia. It breaks them. They will spend their adult lives doing everything in their power to never feel the weight of the world again"
this quote is very important later in the plot twists
Fast Pace
I've seen some 1 star reviews here saying that nothing happens in the book! I mean they are entitled to their opinion, but seriously! Did they read the book?
Almost every chapter something happens
from the very one
and they made it seem like the trials did not occure! All three trials took place in the book
The story takes you from one plot twist to another with surprising turns of events
The characters
Sylvia may appear as this passive, aloof, and stoic character. But who could blame her? the life she had, and the things she'd seen would make anyone think a hundred times before cracking a smile
and still, she delivers some burn responses that left me smiling
the sole company I'm permitted to keep is the handful of soldiers whose conversational skills peaked in the womb
Arin, just like Sylvia, has been handed blow after blow since he was a baby. He is tasked with a heavy burden and a bit of a curse. We only get three chapters from his point of view and what he tells Sylvia, but still you get the sense that he is harboring a great plan.
He is a theorist, a schemer, and absolutely smart. Always two steps ahead of others
I hope we get more of him in his own POV in book 2
The World building
it was simple, yet understandable
it left nothing for speculations except minor questions that hinted to be solved in later books in the series.
You don't have to have a dense background on Egyptian culture to understand all the words used
As someone who is a Native speaker of Arabic and has a close connection with Egyptians, I was extremely happy reading a Fantasy where I understood everything.
I believe representation and amplifying POC writers are important
so as we read Fantasies inspired by Gaelic or Irish or English or any other culture, why not one inspired by Egyptian one?
The Enemies to Lovers
There is a misconception about this trope
little banter ≠ enemies to lovers
secretly love her ≠ enemies to lovers
rivals ≠ enemies to lovers
enemies to lovers is when they both want to literally and almost kill each other
Sylvia and Arin are from two kingdoms that hate each other
Sylvia's kingdom killed Arin's mother
Arin's kingdom wiped out Sylvia's Kingdom
at one point (I do not consider this spoiler but skip if you want) he breaks both her hands and shoots an arrow to her thigh
she almost cuts his throat and holds him at knife point twice
The wholesome kingdom (Maybe spoilers)
I loved that non of the kingdoms were pure and innocent
each kingdom and their rulers did evil things to their people
but this bears the question "is it just to wipe out entire people to punish the sins of the rulers?"
DISCLAIMER AND POSSIBLE SPOILERS
in one of my previous reviews I talked about originality and the difference between inspiration and literally taking everything from other works
When some authors are inspired by a culture, events, or other authors and their books, it is natural that we see glimpses of this in said authors' books. However, these authors still bring their own
Like when you do a fairy tale retelling, or Shakespearean retelling, or cultural fantasy, or even a realistic story based on true events
This is inspiration
It is clear that this book is inspired by
1- Egyptian Culture and History
- The sacrifices to the River
- The Mawlid
- The burial rituals
- The words used ( ya amari (my moon), halawani (the candy man), oota (tomato)...
2- The Hunger Games
the trials where each kingdom presents a champion to compete and only one Victor remains
3- Shatter Me series (and this one I did not like at all and the reason I deducted 1 star from the perfect 5)
so the main two characters
Arin = very close to Aaron. Son of the ruler. Commander of the army. White blond hair, blue eyes (Aaron has green thou). has resistance to Sylvia's magic?????
Sylvia = brunette, possesses powerful magic, reluctant to use it at first. and her name? Juliette is the main character in Shatter Me, like the Shakespeare Juliet?? Shakespeare has another very famous sonnet called "Silvia"
and the whole "if I touch her with her full power I'll die"?
IDK, maybe it was just me, but I did not like this part
Also, what up with Silver hair vs Burnett hair!!!! Is it the norm now???
But all in All, amazing book
cant wait for book 2
dnf
June 22, 2023Soft DNF at 33%
I could be convinced to start this again depending on later reviews and the reviews of my mutuals.
I need to collect my thoughts on what exactly didn’t work for me with this one. I will say that if the book had been marketed to me as what it actually is, I would not have picked it up. The fantasy tournament trope and the (unrecognized as toxic) enemies to lovers romance are not selling points for me.
This is not a bad book but I can already tell it would be a 3/3.5 star read. And I can’t find the motivation to finish something I’m not loving right now. Honestly I might even come back to this because I’m sick of DNFing anticipated releases this year.
I could be convinced to start this again depending on later reviews and the reviews of my mutuals.
I need to collect my thoughts on what exactly didn’t work for me with this one. I will say that if the book had been marketed to me as what it actually is, I would not have picked it up. The fantasy tournament trope and the (unrecognized as toxic) enemies to lovers romance are not selling points for me.
This is not a bad book but I can already tell it would be a 3/3.5 star read. And I can’t find the motivation to finish something I’m not loving right now. Honestly I might even come back to this because I’m sick of DNFing anticipated releases this year.
January 29, 2025
2.5
A lot of good stuff here, but it feels so…all over the place. Even after almost 500 pages, I feel like I still have no real understanding of the magic. The trials felt like an afterthought (I also think I’m just exhausted with trials/competitions/etc.), and some of the more pivotal moments didn’t land for me, because I didn’t find the character work engaging enough to make me care.
I loved the politics and the history among the kingdoms and thought those were two of the strongest parts of this book. Overall, this was fine, but I wish it was a little tighter. I’m curious to see how this will end, though, so l look forward to reading the sequel when it releases.
A lot of good stuff here, but it feels so…all over the place. Even after almost 500 pages, I feel like I still have no real understanding of the magic. The trials felt like an afterthought (I also think I’m just exhausted with trials/competitions/etc.), and some of the more pivotal moments didn’t land for me, because I didn’t find the character work engaging enough to make me care.
I loved the politics and the history among the kingdoms and thought those were two of the strongest parts of this book. Overall, this was fine, but I wish it was a little tighter. I’m curious to see how this will end, though, so l look forward to reading the sequel when it releases.
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