Book Review: All This Twisted Glory (This Woven Kingdom Book 3)
From the moment I cracked open All This Twisted Glory, I was swept back into the captivating world crafted by the fantastic Tahereh Mafi, an author I’ve long admired for her ability to meld visceral emotions with exquisite prose. As a devoted fan of the Woven Kingdom series, I eagerly anticipated how Alizeh’s journey would unfold, and I wasn’t disappointed. The blend of romance, magic, and betrayal had me glued to the pages, sparking a blend of excitement and contemplation that stayed with me well into my day.
At its core, this installment explores profound themes of identity, power, and the complexities of love. Alizeh, the long-lost heir to the Jinn throne, stands at a crossroads: embracing the power she’s been denied or succumbing to the legacy of violence tied to her new betrothed, the enigmatic and mercurial Cyrus. The complexity of their relationship unfolds in a deliciously slow-burn manner, leading to moments that had my heart racing. The tension is palpable, with every turn of the page revealing not only the character’s struggles but also the shadows of their pasts.
Mafi’s writing style truly shines in this volume—her prose dances, and her lyrical quality pulls you into the emotional core of the characters. I loved the way she intertwines the story with rich settings that feel alive, practically bathing the narrative in a warm glow. Her exploration of Alizeh’s doubts and Cyrus’s tortured existence was masterful; they felt real, flawed, and deeply human. “Every choice you make, every desire you have, is a thread binding you to your destiny.” This quote encapsulates the critical theme of choice that courses through this story and resonated deeply with me.
However, the pacing was a point of contention; there were times when the narrative felt like it lingered too long in certain moments, creating a sense of urgency that was sometimes met with a lull. Some readers have echoed similar sentiments, noting that All This Twisted Glory might have benefited from tighter editing to balance character introspection with plot progression. Nevertheless, Mafi’s character development and her ability to evoke empathy left me enraptured, keeping me invested even during slower segments.
The buildup toward a climax is undoubtedly intense, especially with the arrival of Prince Kamran, fueling a brewing tension that I felt in my bones. Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Mafi delivered twists that left my jaw on the floor. Alizeh’s growth was nothing short of inspiring, showcasing strength in vulnerability, while Cyrus’s dark past became a fascinating enigma that I can’t wait to unravel in future installments.
All This Twisted Glory will resonate deeply with fans of romantasy and character-driven stories, especially those who appreciate complex portrayals of love and ambition. Whether you’re Team Cyrus or Team Kamran, this installment will tug fiercely on your heartstrings, challenging loyalties and igniting fierce discussions long after the final page.
In conclusion, I found this book to be a beautiful addition to the series— a whirlwind of passionate conflict landed against a backdrop of lush setting and magic. For anyone who revels in tales of magical realism and compelling characters, this book is a must-read. I dare you to embark on Alizeh’s journey; it promises to be both thrilling and deeply moving. Now, I’m left eager for what lies ahead—Mafi has truly crafted a masterpiece that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.
You can find All This Twisted Glory (This Woven Kingdom Book 3) here >>