A review by azrah786
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

4.25

 [This review can also be found on my BLOG]

**I received a proof copy from Orbit Books UK in exchange for an honest review**

CW: Explicit violence including immolation and self-immolation, gender-based violence (this does not include sexual assault), homophobia and internalised homophobia, suicidal ideation, self-mutilation, abusive family dynamics, child murder, death, xenophobia, body horror (plant-based, cosmic), forced drug use and depictions of addiction/withdrawal


Tasha Suri is back with her entrancing storytelling, badass leading ladies and all the desi vibes.

The Jasmine Throne introduces us to nation colonised by an empire heavily swathed in patriarchal ideals. It is a land where religion has been twisted into a tool of subjugation, where a magical plant malady is plaguing the population and where murmurs of rebellion against those in power add to the unrest. We primarily follow a princess who is condemned to imprisonment in the Hirana, the ruin of an ancient temple, after she refused to submit herself to a sacrificial burning, and a maidservant with secrets of her own and a past that is linked to the Hirana who is tasked with serving her.

“…some men dream of times long dead, and times that never existed, and they’re willing to tear the present apart entirely to get them.”


Having read Empire of Sand I was already familiar with the author’s slow burn style of writing and the subtle influences from Indian cultures and mythology that she vividly weaves through her world-building. The pacing and whispers of magic seamlessly absorb you into the atmosphere of the tale and I was honestly in awe of how masterfully all the layers of the story came together. There is an equal balance of character driven storylines and a complex overarching plot. A comprehensive magic system and history that is gradually revealed, as well as compelling politics entwined with family drama that will keep you hooked.

“There is power that is showy and fierce. And there is power grown slowly, and stronger for the time spent braiding its ancient strength.”

As expected from a Tasha Suri book there is a fascinating cast of characters and all the women are totally badass!

Princess Malini and the maidservant Priya, are both such well written, multi-faceted individuals and the story delves deep into their pasts and inner conflicts, unfolding their somewhat noble yet quite often astute motivations. Their relationship, one of reluctant allies to something more, is also beautifully developed.

Bhumika, a noblewoman of the province where the princess is being held, is another character whose story I really loved following. All three of these women show inspiring perseverance against the prejudices constantly thrown at them and incredible strength in fighting for what they believe in.

“I don’t believe that is the way things are… That we have no choices. And if fate must be star-burned into us, then I don’t believe we can’t bend to the needs of our times and turn from our prescribed path.”

There are also perspectives from Rao, a prince of a neighbouring nation determined to secure the princess’ freedom and Ashok, a rebel leader who is also the brother of Priya, as well as the odd chapter from minor side characters. The use of multiple points of view really helped to enhance the narrative by giving us further glimpses of the patchwork of cultures, lifestyles and hierarchies that form this extensive world.

Along with the themes of power, misogyny and the effects of imperialism there is also a big focus on familial relationships, both related and found family, and how they shape us which was brilliantly explored.

Where this first instalment rounds off has me super excited for where this story will take us and its characters, I can’t wait for the sequel!
Final Rating – 4.25/5 Stars 
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