The Quick Cut: A princess with forbidden abilities fights an evil ruler as he manipulates his way into taking over her kingdom.
A Real Review:
Retellings seem to be one of those popular trends right now. However, is there something that could make that a unique experience from the rest? With the melding of worlds in this first book of the Stolen Kingdom series, that is the landscape created in a retelling of Aladdin.
Arie has spent her life anticipating the moment she goes from Princess to Queen. However, all that excitement is dampened when she develops the ability to read minds (an ability that is outlawed). Quickly after, a neighboring king begins manipulating his way into a marriage with her, firmly stealing her kingdom. Can she get out of the marriage and keep her abilities a secret?
This retelling is very loose, but enjoyable. I liked the way they combined the jinnis, dragons, and mermaids mythologies together. The way they interact is natural and doesn't feel forced. The flipping narrative between Arie and Kadin was distracting in moments, but not enough to take away from the experience.
Arie has a grace and power that pulls you in to her experience. I found myself rooting for her only a few pages in, even if she's in an extreme situation. Her chemistry with Kadin and their love interest played that balance well between adding complications and being a distraction well. Truthfully, it would have been nice to have narration from Gideon. I kept wanting more of him!
With a unique twist to the retelling trope, this book stands out.
My rating: 4.5 out of 5