A review by abooknomad
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

On paper, this book looked amazing: sapphic fantasy? Yes, please! South Asian-inspired lore and worldbuilding? Sign me up. However, the characters and the plot were so underwhelming that the story's potential was lost on me about halfway through. And there’s nothing sadder than an incredible premise falling short. 

This is one of those cases where the blurb is 10 times more interesting than the book itself. I was promised morally grey characters, an epic plot, and lots of tension between unlikely allies, but the characters lacked the necessary depth and layers to make any of those things true, or for me to feel any sense of connection to them (and between them). 

The only thing of note going for this book is the unique nature-based magic system and Indian-inspired worldbuilding which draws heavily on spirituality and ritual. The commentary on the role of women in war and politics was also much appreciated; the rest fell incredibly flat: the plot was predictable, dull, and nothing new (not that I expect every author to invent the wheel, but I do look forward to feeling excited and enthralled by the twists a story takes – this didn’t happen for me here). 

I probably won't be picking up the sequel. 

Don’t let my experience hinder your curiosity or desire to read this book though. It was not the right book for me, but it might be perfect for you.