A review by ehmannky
The Hidden Palace by Helene Wecker

emotional reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Gorgeous, fabulous and beautiful, just like the original book. I didn't think I'd like it as much as I did considering that
Ahmad and Chava are broken up for the last 200 or so pages of the book
, but I loved it. I love how Ahmad and Chava's experiences as immigrants are so front and center (him losing his language, them both being changed by a new place, her trying to assimilate, etc). I love that this is a book that is essentially about the fear of being known, and how hard and scary it is to be loved and love in return. I loved where all of the characters' storylines took them (especially Anna!). Dima was a bit more difficult to love, but I'm sure Wecker could get me to change my mind in the next installment if she's brought back. 

I am curious, since Wecker has stated she's interested in writing a third book, how she'll progress Chava and Ahmad's relationship. Now that we've seen them repeat their most toxic traits (her running away from the problem and working/subsuming herself to someone else, him isolating himself and ignoring community) to the most extreme we've seen, I wonder if in the next book Wecker will let them identify these traits in themselves. I'd also love to see Ahmad and Chava go to a movie either in
Chicago or New York
. The ending is so bittersweet, but that final paragraph just sets up so much potential for hope for their future. 

Whatever the next book is, I am there. Though I just feel like I want to petition for a solid happy ending for everyone involved, even though I know I'll like whatever Wecker gives me. 
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