I am a total and absolute sucker for anything and everything remotely related to the Thousand and One Nights. They are a group of stories that mean as much, or more, to me as the standard western fairy tales, which I also have a deep and abiding love for. The difference is, these are ones that I read to myself and for myself. They are imbued with a kind of magic for me–not because the places are exotic–but rather because there is such power in storytelling. It was absolutely captivating and I’ve been captivated ever since.

So when I found out the book that seemed to be featured on everyone’s blog and had such a wonderful cover was actually a retelling of the Arabian nights, I had to read it. And the story did not disappoint. Though Ahdieh’s story focuses more on the power of love than anything, the power of words is inextricably linked to the story, and as such I couldn’t help but fall in love with it. Ahdieh’s characters are vulnerable, but more than that (or in spite of that) they all display such strength. The language has a graceful, fluid quality to it, with just the right amount of description and action. I can’t wait for the next book, and I highly recommend reading this series debut.