Member Review

The last tale of the flower bride by Roshani Chokshi

Thank you Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for an arc ebook for an unbiased review.

While Roshani Chokshi isn't someone I'd read previously, I had heard she had done some great YA books so I was intrigued when I heard about this foray into the adult gothic genre.

I was fascinated by this book. We though have to be aware, the basis of this book is fairytales. One in particular. They aren't as a rule, wholesome fun stories (some are of course). Many are gruesome, many have aspects of co-dependency and/or toxic relationships. So the contents of this story tend to explore themes that touch based on many a fairytale.

The imagery is so beautiful and vivid. It allowed the fantasy nature to shine through. The narrative is between past and present and it helps build the complexity of Indigo and others around her.
Although the main story is based on a particular fairytale, there are others scattered throughout. Some I know, some I didn't, and the mark of a great piece of writing is when I want to find out more. I certainly am intrigued to find out more about some.

The book cover is dark and foreboding, and it sets up the whole story as it is also dark and foreboding and complex. Although some of it was beautiful and full of magical wonder. I am glad we had those sections, as it allowed you to breathe around the weightier moment

I know this isn't going to be a book for everyone, but I found I loved it far more than I had anticipated I would.

A solid 5/5 stars from me.