The Wrath and the Dawn (#1) by Renee Ahdieh
Published by: G P Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers on May 12th, 2015
Genre: YA, Fantasy, Retelling, Romance, Magic
Pages: 388
Format: Paperback
Source: Purchased

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Synopsis: One Life to One Dawn.

In a land ruled by a murderous boy-king, each dawn brings heartache to a new family. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, is a monster. Each night he takes a new bride only to have a silk cord wrapped around her throat come morning. When sixteen-year-old Shahrzad’s dearest friend falls victim to Khalid, Shahrzad vows vengeance and volunteers to be his next bride. Shahrzad is determined not only to stay alive, but to end the caliph’s reign of terror once and for all.

Night after night, Shahrzad beguiles Khalid, weaving stories that enchant, ensuring her survival, though she knows each dawn could be her last. But something she never expected begins to happen: Khalid is nothing like what she’d imagined him to be. This monster is a boy with a tormented heart. Incredibly, Shahrzad finds herself falling in love. How is this possible? It’s an unforgivable betrayal. Still, Shahrzad has come to understand all is not as it seems in this palace of marble and stone. She resolves to uncover whatever secrets lurk and, despite her love, be ready to take Khalid’s life as retribution for the many lives he’s stolen. Can their love survive this world of stories and secrets?

Inspired by A Thousand and One Nights, The Wrath and the Dawn is a sumptuous and enthralling read from beginning to end.

Review: I was hearing a lot of good things about this one and now I know why. Holy! I could not put this book down as soon as it was in my possession. I don’t even know what else to say before I preface my likes and dislikes. As I write this the second book is on its way to me and I am super excited to continue on.

“What are you doing to me, you plague of a girl?” he whispered.
“If I’m a plague, then you should keep your distance, unless you plan on being destroyed.” The weapons still in her grasp, she shoved against his chest.
“No.” His hands dropped to her waist. “Destroy me.”

The Characters – I really liked Shazi’s sass and wit and how she was able to keep as calm as she did given her situation. Khalid… ouf. Even though he’s a monster in most eyes it was interesting to see the reason why. The relationship between the two of them kills me. It shouldn’t happen but its just so good. Tariq bothered me. He seemed a little too invested. Despina was a great match for Shazi.

The Plot – Was so captivating I loved it. The 1001 nights aspect, mixed with the story telling and the romance. I didn’t really enjoy having the perspectives split because it felt confusing at times but I got over it. Also the last chapter felt oddly placed. Like an abrupt ending… but that letter though.

The World – This was my only qualm. Why was there magic in it? It seemed like it was thrown in there with no explanation. I want to know why!

The Cover – The hardcover covers are so pretty. I have the paperback one in my possession that is okay but does not even compare to the hardcover. I will have to pick it up for my collection and to match with the sequel.

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