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The Star-Touched Queen#2
A Crown of Wishes
An ancient mystery. An unlikely union. For one young princess in a state of peril, a dangerous wish could be the only answer…
She is the princess of Bharata—captured by her kingdom’s enemies, a prisoner of war. Now that she faces a future of exile and scorn, Gauri has nothing left to lose. But should she trust Vikram, the notoriously cunning prince of a neighboring land? He promises her freedom in exchange for her battle prowess. Together they can team up and win the Tournament of Wishes, a competition held in a mythical city where the Lord of Wealth promises a wish to the victor. It seems like a foolproof plan—until Gauri and Vikram arrive at the tournament and find that danger takes on new shapes: poisonous courtesans, mischievous story birds, a feast of fears, and twisted fairy revels. New trials will test their devotion, strength, and wits. But what Gauri and Vikram will soon discover is that there’s nothing more dangerous than what they most desire.
She is the princess of Bharata—captured by her kingdom’s enemies, a prisoner of war. Now that she faces a future of exile and scorn, Gauri has nothing left to lose. But should she trust Vikram, the notoriously cunning prince of a neighboring land? He promises her freedom in exchange for her battle prowess. Together they can team up and win the Tournament of Wishes, a competition held in a mythical city where the Lord of Wealth promises a wish to the victor. It seems like a foolproof plan—until Gauri and Vikram arrive at the tournament and find that danger takes on new shapes: poisonous courtesans, mischievous story birds, a feast of fears, and twisted fairy revels. New trials will test their devotion, strength, and wits. But what Gauri and Vikram will soon discover is that there’s nothing more dangerous than what they most desire.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 28, 2017
About the author
Roshani Chokshi
45books10.9kfollowersRoshani Chokshi is the award-winning author of the New York Times bestselling series The Star-Touched Queen, The Gilded Wolves and Aru Shah and The End of Time, which Time Magazine named one of the Top 100 Fantasy Books of All Time. Her adult debut, The Last Tale of The Flower Bride, was a #1 Sunday Times bestseller. Her novels have been translated into more than two dozen languages and often draw upon world mythology and folklore. Chokshi is a member of the National Leadership Board for the Michael C. Carlos Museum and lives in Georgia with her husband and their cat whose diabolical plans must regularly be thwarted.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,636 reviews
February 10, 2017
Absolutely stunning.
Every single word of this book is exquisite--and the lush, intricate world-building is nothing short of remarkable. (I pretty much alternated sighing over the glorious prose with sighing over Vikram.) Gauri is one hell of a nuanced, badass heroine, and the vivid world she inhabits is full of wondrous magic, deadly intrigues, and creatures from your loveliest dreams and darkest nightmares.
As much as I adored THE STAR-TOUCHED QUEEN, I think I might love A CROWN OF WISHES even more. Everything Roshani writes is a feast for the senses, and I can't wait to read whatever she publishes next!
Every single word of this book is exquisite--and the lush, intricate world-building is nothing short of remarkable. (I pretty much alternated sighing over the glorious prose with sighing over Vikram.) Gauri is one hell of a nuanced, badass heroine, and the vivid world she inhabits is full of wondrous magic, deadly intrigues, and creatures from your loveliest dreams and darkest nightmares.
As much as I adored THE STAR-TOUCHED QUEEN, I think I might love A CROWN OF WISHES even more. Everything Roshani writes is a feast for the senses, and I can't wait to read whatever she publishes next!
February 16, 2020
“A story is control.”
What a gorgeous novel.
A charming, colorful, atmospheric fantasy book, based on Hindu epics.We are thrown into a beautiful, magical world of lush gardens and sweet fruits, spirits and demons,yakshas,rakshas,vanaras...
And my favorite snake-demons,nagas:
The world-building is exquisite, blending so many creatures and legends into one coherent whole. I have just one tiny tiny nitpick. It’s so insignificant that it’s not even worth mentioning, but it’s a part of a larger trend in fantasy and has become a pet peeve of mine. Every once in a while, I read a book set up in a fantasy universe, and I come across terms referring to actual places in our world that break my immersion. It could be a French braid, or Carrara marble, or anything. In this case, it was a Damask rose...
Unless, by some coincidence, there is also a city called Damascus in this fictional world, and, coincidentally, it was also involved in the history of cultivation of this particular rose, the name doesn’t make sense. Would it even refer to the same rose, cultivated as a hybrid of two or three other kinds for the high quality of its oil?Yeah, if I’m nitpicking about this, you can imagine the rest of the book is very close to perfection!
The book is full of magic and reads a bit like an ancient epic, with the heroes accomplishing tasks and discovering bits and pieces of this wondrous world. The characters are well developed and grow over the course of the tale.Gauri and Vikram are perfect foils to each other, she – pragmatic and somewhat paranoid, and he – trusting, hopeful, and a bit naive.In the end, he must learn doubt, and she must learn hope...
The book teaches us the importance of stories and how essential it is to listen and to share.Each story has many facets, and seeing only one is dangerous. I think the true beauty of the book is how everything comes together at the end – the origin ofvishakanyas,the Serpent King’s story mirroring Gauri’s, the power of storytelling.
While I lovedThe Star-Touched Queen,I still thought it had some problems. But none of them pop up here. I was delighted to see the author has grown so much between the two books. And while I was happy to see a few references to the previous book, I’m also glad they were kept at a minimum – this was Gauri’s story, and she had to accomplish her goals without Maya’s help, which is exactly what happens.
A beautiful read.
March 21, 2017
Oh, Roshani, Roshani, Roshani... what have you done to my heart?
This book is just as lush and beautiful as it's touted to be, but even more than that it's damned smart writing. The lovely whimsiness (Is that a word? *bangs gavel* NOW IT IS!) of the world-building is reminiscent of Roald Dahl and Laini Taylor, with a dash of A Midsummer Night's Dream thrown into the mix for good measure.
If you enjoy books about sharp young women with even sharper wit and boys who were made to make you swoon, pick up this gem of a story. Chokshi outdoes herself.
This book is just as lush and beautiful as it's touted to be, but even more than that it's damned smart writing. The lovely whimsiness (Is that a word? *bangs gavel* NOW IT IS!) of the world-building is reminiscent of Roald Dahl and Laini Taylor, with a dash of A Midsummer Night's Dream thrown into the mix for good measure.
If you enjoy books about sharp young women with even sharper wit and boys who were made to make you swoon, pick up this gem of a story. Chokshi outdoes herself.
January 22, 2019
**Full review update (spoiler free!)** Holy crap. This was PHENOMENAL. Absolutely a new ALL TIME favorite. Can I give this one more than 5 stars please?
I was a bit nervous going into this one because while I adore Roshani's writing and imagery, I had a little bit of a hard time understanding what was happening in her first novel (A Star-Touched Queen). If you felt the same, let me urge you to give this one a try! First of all, it is a companion novel so I don't think you even necessarily have to read or have understood the first. I wasn't lost at all. (But that doesn't mean you shouldn't give ASTQ a try - you totally should!) Secondly, the writing in this was just as beautiful but easier to digest. The story is still a little abstract at times but I was never confused or lost. I LOVED EVERY SENTENCE. I'm still blown away.
Here's a list of reasons you need to read this book...
1. Vikram (see below).
2. Magic.
3. Hate to... love? You'll have to see;)
4. Gorgeous scenery + culture
5. HOLY CRAP FEELS.
6. Princes. Okay Vikram.
7. Badass heroine (who is fierce, relatable, but makes mistakes.)
8. Unpredictable plot
9. Jaw dropping quotes
10. This book is everything.
Okay back to my review...
What really made this shine was the characters. Oh my goodness they were so much fun. Gauri was a pleasant surprise - a princess in captivity but who doesn't cower before anyone. This girl has determination, strength, and guards her heart so carefully. She tends to be quite serious and doesn't accept fun easily... which is perfect because it isn't long before she meets and attempts to kill Vikram (the Prince of the country she is captive in). He's witty, hysterical, and ridiculously hes brilliant. Yeah. He can legit outsmart anyone. Oh and he's handsome.
But trust me- that is merely the start of the story. Vikram and Gauri end up having to team up for a competition and things get so interesting. The best part though is their dynamic. They are polar opposites but they find out pretty quickly that they both have similar struggles and passions. Their banter was my favorite part. Vikram loves nothing more than to ruffle her feathers and I loved their chemistry.
All the characters (even the side ones) are so complex and beautifully written. I was just so in love with everything. Where as the writing was hard for me to swallow in the last book- this one was just perfection.
I found myself rereading pages JUST BECAUSE THEY WERE SO GORGEOUS.
(Okay I have so much more to add soon..)
I honestly don't want to give anything else about the plot away. Let it be a surprise. Go in blind. This is all feels and pure fun. I have ZERO complaints. Not one. I can't even begin to count the amount of smiles it put on my face.
My Blog~Instagram~Twitter~Etsy
I was a bit nervous going into this one because while I adore Roshani's writing and imagery, I had a little bit of a hard time understanding what was happening in her first novel (A Star-Touched Queen). If you felt the same, let me urge you to give this one a try! First of all, it is a companion novel so I don't think you even necessarily have to read or have understood the first. I wasn't lost at all. (But that doesn't mean you shouldn't give ASTQ a try - you totally should!) Secondly, the writing in this was just as beautiful but easier to digest. The story is still a little abstract at times but I was never confused or lost. I LOVED EVERY SENTENCE. I'm still blown away.
Here's a list of reasons you need to read this book...
1. Vikram (see below).
2. Magic.
3. Hate to... love? You'll have to see;)
4. Gorgeous scenery + culture
5. HOLY CRAP FEELS.
6. Princes. Okay Vikram.
7. Badass heroine (who is fierce, relatable, but makes mistakes.)
8. Unpredictable plot
9. Jaw dropping quotes
10. This book is everything.
Okay back to my review...
What really made this shine was the characters. Oh my goodness they were so much fun. Gauri was a pleasant surprise - a princess in captivity but who doesn't cower before anyone. This girl has determination, strength, and guards her heart so carefully. She tends to be quite serious and doesn't accept fun easily... which is perfect because it isn't long before she meets and attempts to kill Vikram (the Prince of the country she is captive in). He's witty, hysterical, and ridiculously hes brilliant. Yeah. He can legit outsmart anyone. Oh and he's handsome.
But trust me- that is merely the start of the story. Vikram and Gauri end up having to team up for a competition and things get so interesting. The best part though is their dynamic. They are polar opposites but they find out pretty quickly that they both have similar struggles and passions. Their banter was my favorite part. Vikram loves nothing more than to ruffle her feathers and I loved their chemistry.
All the characters (even the side ones) are so complex and beautifully written. I was just so in love with everything. Where as the writing was hard for me to swallow in the last book- this one was just perfection.
"Humanity has nothing to do with what runs through your veins or shows up on your skin."
I found myself rereading pages JUST BECAUSE THEY WERE SO GORGEOUS.
"How many times have answers been so simple and yet someone is determined to take the path of thorns instead of roses?"
(Okay I have so much more to add soon..)
I honestly don't want to give anything else about the plot away. Let it be a surprise. Go in blind. This is all feels and pure fun. I have ZERO complaints. Not one. I can't even begin to count the amount of smiles it put on my face.
My Blog~Instagram~Twitter~Etsy
August 31, 2018
okay, you guys. some real talk here. i know so many of you hated the first book in this duology, but please believe me when i say this sequel is sooo much better. actually, i wouldnt even consider this a sequel because it can be read on its own. not only because it is its own story, but also because its just that good.
plotwise, this actually reminded me a lot of caraval. but where caraval had a whimsical and carefree feel to it, this was lush in ancient folklore and magic. and even though the tournament of wishes is a main focal point, what really captured my attention were the characters and how the tournament made them grow and develop into the people they were so desperate to become. i thought the character depth was fantastic and it was such a pleasure to read about gauri and vikrams journey together.
also, the writing in this was seriously swoon-worthy. i will concede that it may take others some time to get used to, but chokshis command of language and description was phenomenal. it really was such an asset to the way the story was told.
so if there is anything i want you take away from this review, its this - if you hated‘the star touched queen,’just forget you ever read it and pick this up ASAP, because i promise you wont be disappointed!
↠4.5 stars
plotwise, this actually reminded me a lot of caraval. but where caraval had a whimsical and carefree feel to it, this was lush in ancient folklore and magic. and even though the tournament of wishes is a main focal point, what really captured my attention were the characters and how the tournament made them grow and develop into the people they were so desperate to become. i thought the character depth was fantastic and it was such a pleasure to read about gauri and vikrams journey together.
also, the writing in this was seriously swoon-worthy. i will concede that it may take others some time to get used to, but chokshis command of language and description was phenomenal. it really was such an asset to the way the story was told.
so if there is anything i want you take away from this review, its this - if you hated‘the star touched queen,’just forget you ever read it and pick this up ASAP, because i promise you wont be disappointed!
↠4.5 stars
March 18, 2017
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Griffin Teen for providing me with an ARC to review!
3.5 STARS
I wish I could give A Crown of Wishes a much higher rating. I even considered setting my rating to a 3.5 star bumped up to 4 stars rather than 3.5 rounded down to a 3, but I think a 4 star rating would be a bit generous and not very honest on my part so I'm just going to set my rating to 3 stars because that's what I feel reflects my true reading experience.
Let me start off by saying that I was not a fan of The Star-Touched Queen. I wanted to so badly love it as much as I love Roshani as a person and an author but I just couldn't get into the story. Roshani has such beautiful, vivid, but sometimes, very verbose writing. I got lost in her words and descriptions and I wasn't actually able to follow the story at all. I had no doubts that The Star-Touched Queen was a beautiful tale and I desperately wished I was able to appreciate it more. But truth be told, after finally reading A Crown of Wishes, I think I've came to the conclusion that unfortunately, Roshani's books are just not for me. Or specifically, this series is just not for me.
The characters Gauri and Vikram were great. Gauri was spunky and fearless. Vikram was determined and courageous. And together, they made such an ultimate pair. I loved their quick and witty banter and I loved their chemistry. I loved them more than Maya and Amar. The world that Roshani has created really sweeps you off your feet. There are just so many mystical creatures and places beyond our imaginations! And the Tournament was such an adventurous journey to go on.
I loved almost everything in this book but why the three star rating, right? I've thought long and hard about this and that's how I came to the conclusion that maybe this series just wasn't for me. It had massive potential with many compelling characters and an intriguing plot, but I just couldn't get into either book... I was never really exciting or looking forward to the next page or the next chapter. I enjoyed the adventures and the romances but were never really invested in them. I loved ideas, concepts, and characters but at the same time... I didn't? I'm not sure if it makes sense. I guess I love the pieces but not the puzzle as a whole.
It genuinely bums me out that I can't bring myself to love these stories. I love Roshani as a person and I really believe that she is a phenomenal writer whether or not I actually love her books. I know that many people will love The Star-Touched Queen and/or A Crown of Wishes more than I ever could and I still highly recommend them to my followers. These books may not have worked for me but I know that it may for a lot of other readers. Even if you didn't love or enjoy TSTQ, I think I that A Crown of Wishes deserves a chance because you might find yourself liking this one instead! I certainly enjoyed it more than I did TSTQ and was actually able to follow the story this time around with Gauri and Vikram as opposed to Maya and Amar in TSTQ. Though I personally didn't love A Crown of Wishes, I'll still be buying a finished copy and will always be looking forward to Roshani's future books.
3.5 STARS
I wish I could give A Crown of Wishes a much higher rating. I even considered setting my rating to a 3.5 star bumped up to 4 stars rather than 3.5 rounded down to a 3, but I think a 4 star rating would be a bit generous and not very honest on my part so I'm just going to set my rating to 3 stars because that's what I feel reflects my true reading experience.
Let me start off by saying that I was not a fan of The Star-Touched Queen. I wanted to so badly love it as much as I love Roshani as a person and an author but I just couldn't get into the story. Roshani has such beautiful, vivid, but sometimes, very verbose writing. I got lost in her words and descriptions and I wasn't actually able to follow the story at all. I had no doubts that The Star-Touched Queen was a beautiful tale and I desperately wished I was able to appreciate it more. But truth be told, after finally reading A Crown of Wishes, I think I've came to the conclusion that unfortunately, Roshani's books are just not for me. Or specifically, this series is just not for me.
The characters Gauri and Vikram were great. Gauri was spunky and fearless. Vikram was determined and courageous. And together, they made such an ultimate pair. I loved their quick and witty banter and I loved their chemistry. I loved them more than Maya and Amar. The world that Roshani has created really sweeps you off your feet. There are just so many mystical creatures and places beyond our imaginations! And the Tournament was such an adventurous journey to go on.
I loved almost everything in this book but why the three star rating, right? I've thought long and hard about this and that's how I came to the conclusion that maybe this series just wasn't for me. It had massive potential with many compelling characters and an intriguing plot, but I just couldn't get into either book... I was never really exciting or looking forward to the next page or the next chapter. I enjoyed the adventures and the romances but were never really invested in them. I loved ideas, concepts, and characters but at the same time... I didn't? I'm not sure if it makes sense. I guess I love the pieces but not the puzzle as a whole.
It genuinely bums me out that I can't bring myself to love these stories. I love Roshani as a person and I really believe that she is a phenomenal writer whether or not I actually love her books. I know that many people will love The Star-Touched Queen and/or A Crown of Wishes more than I ever could and I still highly recommend them to my followers. These books may not have worked for me but I know that it may for a lot of other readers. Even if you didn't love or enjoy TSTQ, I think I that A Crown of Wishes deserves a chance because you might find yourself liking this one instead! I certainly enjoyed it more than I did TSTQ and was actually able to follow the story this time around with Gauri and Vikram as opposed to Maya and Amar in TSTQ. Though I personally didn't love A Crown of Wishes, I'll still be buying a finished copy and will always be looking forward to Roshani's future books.
March 16, 2019
A crown of wishes is finally here! I love this story so much I feel like making every friend of mine read it. Yup, I am that unashamed *Grinch smile* You haven't started this book yet? What are you doing here?! Run, reader, run and start it right now:D
*Thank you to St. Martin's Griffin and NetGalley for sending me a copy of this book!*“A story had no ownership. A story could break its bones, grow wings, soar out of reach and dive out of sight in the time it took just to draw breath. It meant we weren’t walking a cut path. We carved it into existence with every step.”
Roshani Chokshiisa queen of storytelling!Every word, every line is filled with exquisite magic. It feels like honey spreading through your veins and making your blood sing. Reading her books is a pleasure I find myself addicted to. It also doesn't hurt that books' covers are so gorgeous. This is how the author describedA Crown of Wishes:
There are feasts of silk birds, poisonous courtesans, strange rooms where desires can be devoured, thrones to be conquered, rakshasi fruit that turns princesses to beasts, and, of course, love.
I wouldn't say better!
This story is abouta lonelyFox Prince.The world praises his mind and slyness, but would never accept him as a true ruler - only as aPuppet King.He is so sure of himself; he never doubts, he hides his hurt behind smirks and lopsided grins. And sohe wishes:for magic to show him the way, to hope for something more, to own his fears, for power and recognition.
This story is abouta fierce girl - with blood on her lips and fangs in the heart, who wears the armor of silk and cosmetics as confident as she wears the armor of leather and chain mail.The ‘Jewel of Bharata’they call her. She got so tangled up in court games that she one day lost herself. She hides her weaknesses, she strikes her enemies, but she loses. And soshe wishes:for a chance to prove her worth, to shed her guilt, to save her people.
A chance meeting. Reluctant allies. A tournament of wishes. Everything to gain and nothing left to lose.A Crown of wishesis many things in one. I likedThe Star-touched Queena lot, but Ilovedthis one. The author found a perfect balance betweenstory-characters-writing-wisdom and magic.Lovers of fast-paced, engaging plots will find this book entertaining, butcharacters are what really makes it shine brightly.Gauri and Vikramstole my heart from the first moment I met them. They deservedly take place among my all-time favorite book couples. Why couples, not characters? Because I can't imagine anything but a team when I think about them. Their shared scenes and interactions are what makes this book light and funny, but, at the same time, deep and sad. Gauri and Vikram felt real and flawed; they grow throughout the book: they make mistakes, they fall; they stand and move on but with every step, they become someone new and someone better.
Gauri is a fierce and strong warrior. Vikram, on the other hand, fights with his wits. Gauri places her faith only in herself. Vikram believes in magic. Two absolutely different people forced to work together in order to get their wishes. What to expect from such duet? ONE OF THE BEST CHARACTER DYNAMICS! Their banters are the best thing I've experienced in a while.“What do I call you?” he asked, turning to me. “The ‘Jewel
of Bharata’ just seems too modest, don’t you think?”
“Call me Gauri.”
“How intimate.”
I glared. “Enjoy it, because that’s as intimate as this will ever get, Fox Prince.”
When they first meet, they do not hesitate to threaten the other. They don't value each other's lives; after all, they are from two warring Kingdoms. But time passes, bonds grow tighter and THAT transformation from enemies to more is EVERYTHING. But if you think their banters will cease after they grow closer - don't be fooled, they'll become only better, hehe. Ah, how I wish I could share every dialogue of theirs with you; I highlighted practically the whole book, and I feel like running re-reading those passages already, though, I finished reading it only a couple of hours ago!
Oh, and there's also a scene withshirtless Vikram reading a book!Aahh, I believe I thought myself in paradise when I read that scene, haha. Sorry for the little fangirl excursus, I needed to share that awesome scene with the whole world *grins*.
A Crown of wishesis a story filled with wisdom. I admire, once more, how unique and beautiful the world author created. I know little aboutIndian (Hindi) culture,but it felt authentic to me in this book. And it's not only about one culture:Roshani Chokshiadded something from the western mythology as well, flavoring the story with richness. It doesn't feel just like an entertaining story,it feels like a story that teaches you something valuable.The writing is so beautiful, I couldn't stop myself from reading some passage aloud or re-reading some - so beautiful and melodic they were.
All in all,A Crown of Wishesis better and richer than its predecessor. If you didn't enjoyThe Star-touched Queen,I would strongly recommend you, my friends, to give this book a chance: I am sure it will surprise you in more ways than one. This story left a deep imprint on me and it is, for sure, became one of my favorites. It has everything a reader can want in a book: an engaging and magical story (there's per se something irresistible about magical tournaments, e.g.Caraval,A Gathering of Shadows), three-dimensional characters with fantastic dynamics, exquisite writing that transfers you into the world of wishes you've never visited before, well-rounded secondary characters which, for once, play an important role in the story. It was a nice bonus to find myself caring for someone apart from our main characters.
I wish I had enough words to express how deeply I enjoyed this story. I can only hope that when the book is out in the world in March, you willwishto read it, my friends.
July 3, 2017
“What was magic anyway, but the world beheld by someone who chose to see it differently?”
2.25/5 stars
Biggest lie of 2017
What's with me reading all these disappointing books lately? It needs to stop please. I don't have time for this.
It was actuallypainfulfor me to read this. So painful, in fact, I'm considering checking myself into the hospital bc my entire being hurts so much. And it wasn't that this book was bad, on the contrary, the writing and plot were quite good, but I just felt so utterly unattached to everything that I just didn't care. In the end, Guari and Vikram could have been struck by a giant meteor and been replaced with dancing ostriches and I still wouldn't have given two shits. I was so close to DNFing this, I am actually shocked that I pushed through till the end.
I think my first sign that I was going to hate this books was when, in the first few chapters, we are just thrown into two character's lives and expected to know exactly what is going on with them. Spoiler alert: I still have no effing idea what is going on with them. There was no detailed explanation about the events that had transpired before the beginning of this book. Perhaps it was explained inThe Star-Touched Queenbut that book was such a trainwreck as well, that I don't really remember anything that happened within it.
The book begins with Gauri, a princess of some country that I couldn't care less about, jailed and waiting for execution in some different foreign country, but why exactly? I know it was explained why, but I don't know whether that explanation was just really weak or I just so #done with this book that I just skimmed over the entire thing. All I could figure out is she's in jail and that's about it.
Then we have Vikram, a prince-who's-not-a-prince, who is suppose to execute Gauri, but instead decides that she'll be a great edition to his superhero team
Those are pretty much the only two characters I know. Other than that, anyone else who showed up all seemed to blend together into one, boring, side character. I was pretty much like:
Also what the eff is The Tournament of Wishes? I just read almost four hundred pages about it and I still don't understand what it is. But let's be real here. By page 25 I literally had no idea what the hell was going on.
The book is told from different perspectives, mainly between Gauri and Vikram. Which I'm usually cool with. Practically every book nowadays is told between a thousand points of view. But what I wasn't very cool with was the fact that Gauri's chapters were in first person, while Vikram's were in third. Just thinking about this is making me mad. I like my books to be consistent, thank you very much. Please choose a point of view and stick with it.
Then some of the things I do remember happening in this book are just sooo weird. Gauri walks around for like 50 pages with an apple stuck to her hand. Also they eat their fears? Whatever the hell that means. That's all I remember, tbh, I'm surprised how much I have already forgotten about this book. I think my brain is already trying to permanently erase it from memory. Which, I don't blame it. There are other books that deserve that space.
I literally wasted so much time reading this book, I think I actually lost ten years of my life instead of ten days. I feel so old and wrinkly. Has my hair gone thin and grey? I feel like it has.
There are quite a few good reviews praising this book, saying it is quite the step-up from TSTQ. I can kind of understand where those people are coming from. The writing, and cover, are both so gorgeous. However, sometimes I found the writing to be almost annoying. There was an entire chapter about birds with different wings and I will never understand the point of it. This just wasn’t for me. I hated the execution of the plot and the characters too much to even try to like this. Honestly, I think I prefer TSTQ a lot more than this one. At least I knew what was going on in that book. And I can pass of what I didn't like from it as it being a debut. This book though, there's not excuse that I can muster to try to defend it.
I’m not saying you shouldn’t read this book, you will probably like it tbh as my opinion seems to be an unpopular one, but if you are hesitant about picking it up then I’d say bypass it. There are much better fantasies out there.
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February 6, 2018
1.)The Star-Touched Queen★★★★
“A story had no ownership. A story could break its bones, grow wings, soar out of reach and dive out of sight in the time it took just to draw breath. It meant we weren't walking a cut path. We carved it into existence with every step.”
This was utterly enchanting and completely mesmerizing. I lovedThe Star-Touched Queenwhen I read it last year, and this story was even better! Yet, this story also made me fall deeper in love withThe Star-Touched Queen,because some of the crossovers just warmed my heart to no end. This was such a beautiful tale, and I completely recommend this to everyone, but especially story lovers, becauseA Crown of Wishesis a lover letter to story lovers everywhere.
This is a companion novel toThe Star-Touched Queen,so you do not need to readThe Star-Touched Queenbefore reading this amazing little standalone, but I would completely recommend it. I mean, more tears of joy and sadness if you do!
A Crown of Wishesstars a character that we were first introduced to inThe Star-Touched Queen,Gauri, the jewel of Bharata, now a princess awaiting her death. Her path soon crosses with Vikram, an adopted prince from Ujijain, who is also nicknamed The Fox Prince, who is trying to run away from the memories of his past.
The story truly starts off when Vikram is invited to compete in the Tournament of Wishes, which is held in the otherworldly realm of Alaka, and which the Lord of Treasures hosts. This tournament is said to just be myth, but Vikram soon learns that it is very real, and if you win the tournament you will be granted any wish in the world. Yet, there is a stipulation; he needs a partner.
“Find the one who glows, with blood on the lips and fangs in the heart.”
And the greater powers at work lead him to Gauri. Gauri is so strong and fierce, yet she shows how different women are strong in different ways. And how you don’t always have to draw your power from your ability to fight with a sword or dagger, but to craft a weapon and draw your power for whatever the situation calls for, whether it be beauty, or friends, or taking a risk that you never thought you’d have the strength for. I loved Gauri so much. She was such a wonderful main character, and I want to build a garden in her honor, too.
“I donned my armor, lining my eyes with kohl until they were dark as death and patting crushed rose petals on my lips until they were scarlet as blood.”
While Gauri and Vikram are competing, they meet a plethora of cool side characters along the way, but Aasha is the one we get to spend the most time with. And she also gets her own point of view. Aasha is a bisexual icon, and she was probably my favorite character (which is really saying something, because this cast is honestly 10/10 phenomenal!)
Aasha and her sisters are poisonous courtesans who are forced into a life of seclusion. Aasha is thankful for her sisters who saved her when she was young, and who have become her found family, but Aasha wants to explore, and have adventures, and see more of the world.
This is a story about a magical tournament, with romance and laughter, but this is also a story about trauma and grief and how sometimes being honest about our pasts is the hardest thing we will ever do. I felt so much empathy for these three characters, and I felt that empathy so very differently and so very similarly at the same time. This story is perfectly crafted.
Roshani expertly wove this tale with some of the most beautiful writing my eyes have ever read. This writing is lush, and descriptive, and so very lyrical. I honestly feel like I tabbed every other page, and if I were reading on my kindle, I would have highlighted half the book.
Overall, if you like mythology, flawed characters that you can’t help but root for and then love, wonderful new worlds, important messages, with such beautiful writing, then you can’t letA Crown of Wishespass you by. I really loved this, and I’m so very thankful that I was able to pick this up. Happy reading!
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Buddy read with the beautifulSonja!❤
March 29, 2017
5/5 stars (are we even surprised)
Video Review:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EG4a...
How is it even possible that this book is even better than the first?
Roshani Chokshi's way with words blows my mind. She creates such beautiful angelic sentences that have memorized. The characters are ones that I LOVE and although I adored the characters in TSTQ, I loved these even more (yet again how is that even possible). I even loved the romance more in this book.
Since TSTQ was her debut novel, you can really see how much she has changed as an author. I give so much credit to her because she really took the feedback she received from reviewers. I read this book in public multiple times and had to contain myself because I didn't want to look crazy but this book had me going through so many different emotions and towards the end, I even cried in public (not even ashamed of it).
After reading this book I can say that Roshani Chokshi has become one of my favorite authors and I will choose to support her with whatever books she comes out with.
HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK IS MY BABY <3
Also immediately after finishing this I reread it again because I just couldn't help myself
__________________________________
Can it be March 28th 2017 already?
Video Review:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EG4a...
How is it even possible that this book is even better than the first?
Roshani Chokshi's way with words blows my mind. She creates such beautiful angelic sentences that have memorized. The characters are ones that I LOVE and although I adored the characters in TSTQ, I loved these even more (yet again how is that even possible). I even loved the romance more in this book.
Since TSTQ was her debut novel, you can really see how much she has changed as an author. I give so much credit to her because she really took the feedback she received from reviewers. I read this book in public multiple times and had to contain myself because I didn't want to look crazy but this book had me going through so many different emotions and towards the end, I even cried in public (not even ashamed of it).
After reading this book I can say that Roshani Chokshi has become one of my favorite authors and I will choose to support her with whatever books she comes out with.
HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK IS MY BABY <3
Also immediately after finishing this I reread it again because I just couldn't help myself
__________________________________
Can it be March 28th 2017 already?
November 20, 2017
Things this book promised me:
1. Snarky ship that will own my heart
2. Captivating, enchanting plot
Things this book delivered:
1. Snarky ship that owns my heart
So, was this book good? Yes, it was pretty darn good. But it wasn’t fantastic so sit down and pour yourself a cup of tea, let’s talk.
- I would die for Vikram, let this be known
- Guari is one of those princess warriors that everyone wants to be when they grow up
- Aasha is basically me – the kid has so much dreams but doesn’t know what to do with her life or how to take life changing decisions
- Wow this is getting deep
- THE SHIP. IS. SO. BLOODY. GOOD.
- I don’t want true love unless true love comes with sassing each other for every breathing moment
-
- And
“Go kiss a rock.”
“I will,” he said with a gallant bow. “Rocks are kinder and softer than you anyway.”
He turned around, walked over to an outcropping of rocks and promptly kissed a boulder.
“There,” he said brightly. “That one even looks like a woman.”
- SEE HOW ADORABLE THEY ARE AAAAAAAAAAAAA
(s)
- Okay so, where did it lack?
- For me, I was just??!!??CONFUSED??!! the entire book
- Yes the setting is fantastical and enchanting and beautiful
- But I literally didn’t understand anything that was going on or WHY it was happening
- Like the whole adventures and everything seemed to be taking place bc the //author// wanted it to happen that way and not for any other reason
- I didn’t understand why they were doing things or why things were happening to them
- Its just like, wait and see ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ lol
- And this is coming from someone who is decently familiar with Indian culture
- There is mythology embedded in the story but not explained or elaborated on
- Just much confusion
- And it reached a point where I could care less about what was going on and just squeal over the ship and that was about it
- The writing tho is gorgeous
- Also my friends forced me to read this book with them EVEN THOUGH it’s the SECOND book in the series and I HAVENT read the first (YES THEY ARE COMPANION NOVELS, so they CAN be read out of order) but like that just makes me go aueihfauiohasufilhasf
- This is all theyre fault
3 stars!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Buddy readwithcoffee trash&prag-no-nickname-for-you
I WAS PROMISED A SNARKY SHIP AND THAT IS ALL I WANT OUT OF LIFE plz
1. Snarky ship that will own my heart
2. Captivating, enchanting plot
Things this book delivered:
1. Snarky ship that owns my heart
So, was this book good? Yes, it was pretty darn good. But it wasn’t fantastic so sit down and pour yourself a cup of tea, let’s talk.
- I would die for Vikram, let this be known
- Guari is one of those princess warriors that everyone wants to be when they grow up
- Aasha is basically me – the kid has so much dreams but doesn’t know what to do with her life or how to take life changing decisions
- Wow this is getting deep
- THE SHIP. IS. SO. BLOODY. GOOD.
- I don’t want true love unless true love comes with sassing each other for every breathing moment
-
“Of course we are,” said Vikram drily. “Do we not look wildly in love?”
“Not particularly.”
“What’s her favorite color?” asked a council member.
“The color of my eyes,” said Vikram quickly.
“Yes,” said Gauri woodenly. “They are so very… brown.”
- And
“Go kiss a rock.”
“I will,” he said with a gallant bow. “Rocks are kinder and softer than you anyway.”
He turned around, walked over to an outcropping of rocks and promptly kissed a boulder.
“There,” he said brightly. “That one even looks like a woman.”
- SEE HOW ADORABLE THEY ARE AAAAAAAAAAAAA
(s)
- Okay so, where did it lack?
- For me, I was just??!!??CONFUSED??!! the entire book
- Yes the setting is fantastical and enchanting and beautiful
- But I literally didn’t understand anything that was going on or WHY it was happening
- Like the whole adventures and everything seemed to be taking place bc the //author// wanted it to happen that way and not for any other reason
- I didn’t understand why they were doing things or why things were happening to them
- Its just like, wait and see ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ lol
- And this is coming from someone who is decently familiar with Indian culture
- There is mythology embedded in the story but not explained or elaborated on
- Just much confusion
- And it reached a point where I could care less about what was going on and just squeal over the ship and that was about it
- The writing tho is gorgeous
- Also my friends forced me to read this book with them EVEN THOUGH it’s the SECOND book in the series and I HAVENT read the first (YES THEY ARE COMPANION NOVELS, so they CAN be read out of order) but like that just makes me go aueihfauiohasufilhasf
- This is all theyre fault
3 stars!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Buddy readwithcoffee trash&prag-no-nickname-for-you
I WAS PROMISED A SNARKY SHIP AND THAT IS ALL I WANT OUT OF LIFE plz
July 10, 2018
4.5 stars
Full Review
This book was so beautiful and magical 😍😍😍. Honestly, I went into this with little excitement because of how bad i found the first book. I am so shocked by how good it turned out to be. Can’t believe it’s the same author 😂
What I liked
- I loved the otherworldliness of this. This book is about Vikram and Gauri competing in a tournament in which the winners win a wish each. Throughout the competition, there’s so much otherworldliness and I loved it.
- l like when books make me think and this book did. I liked the lesson about the impact of stories in creating immortality. As long as a tale continues to be told, the story and the people involved would be immortal. Also, there is the lesson of wishing. Sometimes, what you think you want isn’t actually what you want. As the saying goes,be careful what you wish for.
- I thought Gauri was going to be another hot-headed, aggressive cliche at first, but as I kept reading, I realized that she was not. She actually had a reason for her attitude and it was obvious she was actually a really loving, caring person.
- Vikram!! I loved him so much. He’s so clever and hilarious. I appreciate characters that make me laugh and Vikram made me laugh a lot.
- I loved the romance! Gauri and Vikram were so cute. They went from reluctant and suspicious allies to friends to being in love. What I loved the most was that sex was not in the equation. Their love was purely of the soul 💕. I loved that they actually listened and remembered what the other person says, even though it seems unimportant.
What I didn’t like
- The only thing I had problems with was that the otherworldliness in this was strong sometimes and I was sometimes confused about what was going on. Thankfully, by the end, somethings got clearer but overall, I would say the imagery and dialogues in this was a bit on the strong/confusing side.
Overall, I loved this book so much and if it ever becomes a movie, I nominate these two (my Bollywood otp!!!) to play the main characters
Full Review
This book was so beautiful and magical 😍😍😍. Honestly, I went into this with little excitement because of how bad i found the first book. I am so shocked by how good it turned out to be. Can’t believe it’s the same author 😂
What I liked
- I loved the otherworldliness of this. This book is about Vikram and Gauri competing in a tournament in which the winners win a wish each. Throughout the competition, there’s so much otherworldliness and I loved it.
- l like when books make me think and this book did. I liked the lesson about the impact of stories in creating immortality. As long as a tale continues to be told, the story and the people involved would be immortal. Also, there is the lesson of wishing. Sometimes, what you think you want isn’t actually what you want. As the saying goes,be careful what you wish for.
- I thought Gauri was going to be another hot-headed, aggressive cliche at first, but as I kept reading, I realized that she was not. She actually had a reason for her attitude and it was obvious she was actually a really loving, caring person.
- Vikram!! I loved him so much. He’s so clever and hilarious. I appreciate characters that make me laugh and Vikram made me laugh a lot.
- I loved the romance! Gauri and Vikram were so cute. They went from reluctant and suspicious allies to friends to being in love. What I loved the most was that sex was not in the equation. Their love was purely of the soul 💕. I loved that they actually listened and remembered what the other person says, even though it seems unimportant.
What I didn’t like
- The only thing I had problems with was that the otherworldliness in this was strong sometimes and I was sometimes confused about what was going on. Thankfully, by the end, somethings got clearer but overall, I would say the imagery and dialogues in this was a bit on the strong/confusing side.
Overall, I loved this book so much and if it ever becomes a movie, I nominate these two (my Bollywood otp!!!) to play the main characters
June 28, 2017
“Love is like Death without the guarantee of its arrival. Love may not come for you, but when it does it will be just as swift and ruthless as Death and just as blind to your protestations. And just as Death will end one life and leave you with another, so will Love.”
S’CUSEme as I overflow this review with pretty af gifs of Bollywood movies that I connected to this story (im sure that there are more gifs than words in this:P)
I loved the whole feel of this book and I honestly felt like I was 6 y/o again listening to my grandfather telling me stories. I was honestly screaming throughout this book because finally the Indian culture was properly explored and I even saw bits of stories and folktales that I used to read back when I was a kid.
Let me just start by saying that I was not the biggest fan of The Star Touched Queen and it was probably my biggest letdown of last year. It had shitty characters no development and the plot was painfully slow moving.
But what that book lacked this one totally made up for it this was so beautiful and magical. I was totally hooked into the story from the first chapter and the beauty of it. Holy crap, the writing was amazing. TBH sometimes it might start getting a little bit too flowery but I didn’t really mind because the plot was amazing.
Let me just list (because I love lists) the reasons why you absolutely need to pick up this book. (EVEN if you didn’t really like the first one):
a) SETTINGS + descriptions + the general feel
Everything in this was so magical. I don’t know whether it was just me feeling nostalgic but I finally felt like I could connect to the world in this book and I’m so glad I could. The way that it is written just honestly took my breath away at some points. The settings were described so vividly I could almost imagine them.
b) Indian Culture
IDK I’m actually quite happy with this book and its take on the culture and it was shown beautifully and AAAA. It was much better explored in this book than the previous one which literally gave no information on anything culture-related whatsoever.
c) the plot& the tournament
I felt that the plot of this was really fun. I MEAN yes its quite cliché but I just kept my mind open and read it and really loved it. Honestly when the vetala came in I was just there like #sh00k because the story of Vikram& Vetala was one of my favourites as a kid. This book was much much much more fast paced and adventurous than the first one. The whole tournament was filled with dangerous creatures (OMG I love the vishkanyas, I used to love hearing about their stories when I was younger) and the plot was a huge improvement from the last book.
d) Gauri
I am so happy to say that I loved this character so much and she was way less whiny and way less stupid than Maya from TSTQ. Her willpower and her strength was so endearing and just the way she met Vikram. She was a very badass character although I would have liked to see more scenes where she had to show off her skills with weapons and everything. But otherwise she was an amazing protagonist and I loved rooting for her throughout this book.
e) VIKRAM
OMG I LOVED THIS GUY. He was so witty and funny and so incredibly intelligent. I loved that he was the whole brains in the duo while Gauri was more of the brawn. He was so sweet and his backstory was very touching. I loved his whole reason for wanting to take part in the tournament and he was honestly the best thing in this book.
OKAY overall this book was beautiful and fast-paced and magical. Please im on my knees you guys need to read this!!
Pre-review:
HONESTLY SO HAPPY I GAVE ROSHANI CHOKSHI'S BOOKS A SECOND CHANCE
idk i didn't really like the star touched queen #whoops but i loved every page of this one its so beautiful& also the indian kid inside me is super happy with all the myth and magic in this
RTC
S’CUSEme as I overflow this review with pretty af gifs of Bollywood movies that I connected to this story (im sure that there are more gifs than words in this:P)
I loved the whole feel of this book and I honestly felt like I was 6 y/o again listening to my grandfather telling me stories. I was honestly screaming throughout this book because finally the Indian culture was properly explored and I even saw bits of stories and folktales that I used to read back when I was a kid.
Let me just start by saying that I was not the biggest fan of The Star Touched Queen and it was probably my biggest letdown of last year. It had shitty characters no development and the plot was painfully slow moving.
But what that book lacked this one totally made up for it this was so beautiful and magical. I was totally hooked into the story from the first chapter and the beauty of it. Holy crap, the writing was amazing. TBH sometimes it might start getting a little bit too flowery but I didn’t really mind because the plot was amazing.
Let me just list (because I love lists) the reasons why you absolutely need to pick up this book. (EVEN if you didn’t really like the first one):
a) SETTINGS + descriptions + the general feel
Everything in this was so magical. I don’t know whether it was just me feeling nostalgic but I finally felt like I could connect to the world in this book and I’m so glad I could. The way that it is written just honestly took my breath away at some points. The settings were described so vividly I could almost imagine them.
b) Indian Culture
IDK I’m actually quite happy with this book and its take on the culture and it was shown beautifully and AAAA. It was much better explored in this book than the previous one which literally gave no information on anything culture-related whatsoever.
c) the plot& the tournament
I felt that the plot of this was really fun. I MEAN yes its quite cliché but I just kept my mind open and read it and really loved it. Honestly when the vetala came in I was just there like #sh00k because the story of Vikram& Vetala was one of my favourites as a kid. This book was much much much more fast paced and adventurous than the first one. The whole tournament was filled with dangerous creatures (OMG I love the vishkanyas, I used to love hearing about their stories when I was younger) and the plot was a huge improvement from the last book.
d) Gauri
I am so happy to say that I loved this character so much and she was way less whiny and way less stupid than Maya from TSTQ. Her willpower and her strength was so endearing and just the way she met Vikram. She was a very badass character although I would have liked to see more scenes where she had to show off her skills with weapons and everything. But otherwise she was an amazing protagonist and I loved rooting for her throughout this book.
e) VIKRAM
OMG I LOVED THIS GUY. He was so witty and funny and so incredibly intelligent. I loved that he was the whole brains in the duo while Gauri was more of the brawn. He was so sweet and his backstory was very touching. I loved his whole reason for wanting to take part in the tournament and he was honestly the best thing in this book.
OKAY overall this book was beautiful and fast-paced and magical. Please im on my knees you guys need to read this!!
Pre-review:
HONESTLY SO HAPPY I GAVE ROSHANI CHOKSHI'S BOOKS A SECOND CHANCE
idk i didn't really like the star touched queen #whoops but i loved every page of this one its so beautiful& also the indian kid inside me is super happy with all the myth and magic in this
RTC
February 22, 2017
I am painfully in love with TSTQ, so I knew I would do nearly anything to get my greedy hands on Crown. And when I got it, it was a matter of walking the fine line between devouring and saving.
I love love loved Gauri and Vikram. She's stubborn and he's charming and they're adorable. The banter between them is top notch. I was laughing and swooning and gripping the book in exasperation. It's quite a roller coaster.
As always, the story is fantastical and the prose is lyrical. I want to roll around in Roshani's words and never come out. There is one particular scene that had me grinning like a fool and I had to read it about 8 times before I could continue.
With this book, Roshani has cemented her place on my auto-buy list. I can't even wait to see what she comes up with next.
**Huge thanks to St. Martin's Griffin for providing the arc free of charge**
I love love loved Gauri and Vikram. She's stubborn and he's charming and they're adorable. The banter between them is top notch. I was laughing and swooning and gripping the book in exasperation. It's quite a roller coaster.
As always, the story is fantastical and the prose is lyrical. I want to roll around in Roshani's words and never come out. There is one particular scene that had me grinning like a fool and I had to read it about 8 times before I could continue.
With this book, Roshani has cemented her place on my auto-buy list. I can't even wait to see what she comes up with next.
**Huge thanks to St. Martin's Griffin for providing the arc free of charge**
September 17, 2020
Whenever you think of Wonderland or Neverland or just anything stupid-beautiful, this book should be the first thing that comes to mind. Actually no, anything Roshani Chokshi has written is stupid-beautiful. It feels like a poem had a baby with a fantasy and out came Chokshi's books. The way she makes you see things is something you will get completely lost in. I found myself wanting to read more of the magical place she pieced together.
Caraval and The Night Circus are two other books that I would compare to this marvelous book. If you loved The Star-Touched Queen, just know that this was written a little differently. I myself had a little bit of a hard time piecing things together in The Star-Touched Queen because I was so distracted by how much description and beautiful sentences there were. But, I did end up loving it, and you can see my review for ithere.You should know that the writing is different between these two books, so you may find yourself in love with it.
You technically don't even have to read The Star-Touched Queen in order to read this book, since it was a companion novel, though I highly recommend that you do. I learned the hard way with Leigh Bardugo's books that even though you can technically read a series (Six of Crows) without reading the previous series (Grisha), doesn't mean that you should. There are hints about The Star Touched Queen through out the book that will make you smile, but the fixed-content itself is completely separate.
So the characters in this book are what made it so much better to me. You have two royals thrown together in a quest to win a wondrous price. Both have completely different ideas on what to do with the price, but that doesn't stop them from regrettably working together. One is a princess named Gauri that is being held captive by the country that Prince Vikram will rule. They are polar opposites not only in country but in spirit too. Where Vikram has wit, Gauri has has determination and strength. Where Vikram has spur of the moment, Gauri has ponder and thought out. Gauri is more serious and Vikram loves that (because how else is a prince going to stay entertained on a quest?).
You meet different types of beings in this book and just learn a lot more of this beautiful land Chokshi has brought before us. She deserves all the publicity and praise she is going to get with this book. It will blow you away.
April 14, 2017
“Vicious and sweet,” said Vikram, shaking his head. “Beastly girl.”
“You like me, don’t lie,” I teased.
“I couldn’t lie if I tried,” he said quietly.
It just so happens that I was given this ARC by the publisher back in December….I just was way too tired and ‘out of it’ to truly enjoy the lush story-telling of this novel. So every time I would pick up this beauty to read it, I’d get distracted or start to fall asleep…on the prologue. It was clear to me I wasn’t going to be able to read this book while in the height of my pregnancy. I did, however, get to finish it two days before I went into labor! So here I am, finally writing a review for this crazy, intricate book.
“The problem with guilt was not how it attacks the present, but how it stained the past.
I can’t say there weren’t moments where I was scratching my head-because I did that a lot. But it was never in a bad way. This author, from what I’ve always heard, writes in a deeply poetic way that you justneed to be in the mindset for-I definitely gathered this from the moment I started.This isn’t your average YA fantasy-I feel it’s a bit deeper than that. Keep that in mind when choosing to start this novel-it completely changes the tone of both the book and how you feel whilst enjoying this story.
“You’re a monster,” she said.
I secured the necklace. “We all have to be something.”
When I think back on why I enjoyed this book so much (I read it almost a month ago)it always goes back to the characters.I had heard so many good things from my close friends that loved this book about the witty Vikram and I took that with a grain of salt-I mean, no book boy is everreallyas good as people say (Okay, whatever…I lie, but still-everyone’s perception is different) and I almost always feel a tad different. Now, whether that means I loved them more or less is dependent upon the book-obviously.
Vikram had tried bribing them. At one point, he offered Gauri’s hand in marriage, which earned him two sharp jabs in the ribs. For equality’s sake, he offered his own hand in marriage, but that ended all bargaining negotiations on the spot.
So, when thinking of this story, did I love Vikram as much as others? Absolutely. Did I obsess over him as much as my friends? Perhaps not-buthe became an instant BBF all the same.Ha, just goes to showI’ll never change.I had thought he was supposed to be tortured and somewhat sullen, almost an enemies to lovers type deal, but turns out that wasn’t the case.Shehatedhim,but he was just cautious of her-you know, because sheisfrom a different kingdom and all. No,he was a sarcastic prince that made me smile from ear to ear,laugh at the most random moments….did I mention I have a prince fetish? Oops.
“I prefer the poisoned food.”
“You may be rewarded yet,” he said. He popped a handful of pomegranate seeds in his mouth. He froze, some of the juice spilling from his lips. “Oh no,” he breathed, clutching his chest.
“Vikram!” I screamed.
He held up his hand. “I meant to start with mangos.”
So it’s extremely obvious thatthis book wasn’t so much about the plot, for me, but the characters.It was a bit obscure, in my opinion, so I took solace in the characters’ hilarious banter and romantic interactions.Vikram and Gauri had the best banter I’ve read in a while,holding up to some of my favorite bantering couples-it made this long book seem like it was over in a minute.
“My apologies. Is it your bellicose-let-me-drain-your-blood face? Could you not master an expression that looked less like an outraged cat?”
“Better than steepling my hands and looking like an overgrown spider.”
"An overgrown spider who is rarely wrong.”
"My bellicose-let-me-drain-your-blood face has saved your life.”
“And this overgrown-spider pose is about to save yours.”
ButGauri is probably the base of why this book was so alluring-Vikram opposed her and was sly as can be…but I think he was much more tolerable in the beginning of their uneasy alliance (and nicer sooner) whereas Gauri made it harder. She was constantly on alert, always threatening him and, in her mind, thinking of ways to be rid of him (ohhh but he was too cunning). This added an extra layer of animosity between the two,adding tension and a romantic build upthat pays off greatly in the end.
“I thought you were going to stay away from me,” she said.
He looked at her, this princess who seemed so dangerously sharp that he might cut himself just brushing against her shadow. “I don’t know how.”
And while the characters were the main draw to the story, for me, the story wasn’t without its addictive elements, as well-obviously. My biggest problem stems from the games. I do agree with my friend, Brittney, that this almost has aCaravaltype feel. And while that’s fine, I don’t know that I was in the mood for games that aren’t in fact…games.
She laughed. And Vikram, who had never wanted for his life to slow down but only to move faster and faster to the next thing, found himself craving to live in this second.
Whatever. Call me a square, but I love structured, clear cut games and tournaments in books. I don’t like when the games aren’t clear and when they don’t have clear cut rules, winners, prizes etc. etc. Or, I don’t know, I love the life and death games (Sorry. I’ll just always be a HG type girl…). In this story,I felt the games, and the plot, for that matter, were a bit obscure.And, frankly, I don’t always love obscure.
As was the case withCaraval,though, I did enjoy it here-I just don’t know that Iexpectedit-Which, hey, isn’t this book’s fault, now is it??
One final thing-I’m not a fan of one person being a certain pov and the other being in a totally different pov.I don’t know why it bothers me, but every time it switched I thought about it, and I just don’t like this minuscule distraction-I’m not sure what the point is, but for some reason it happens a lot in stories. I’m one of the few who can’t see past it. I still loved the story, it just served as a distraction I didn’t love.
“Surviving isn’t just about cutting out your heart and burning every feeling into ash,” he said. “Sometimes it means taking whatever is thrown at you, beautiful or grotesque, poisonous or blissful, and carving out your life with the pieces you’re given.”
A wonderful story full of twists and turns, games that leave your mind reeling, banter anda slow burn romance that is totally worth the wait,and writing that immediately enthralls you, this story is a winner.It’s hard to say whether this book will be for everyone,but its promising enough I would suggest everyone give it a try. The characters are worth every page you choose to read, and, frankly, Vikram is worth more than that. I hate that it took me so long to read this ARC, but I’m just glad I’m fulfilling my duty. This book was worth the wait, and I’m glad I can voice just how fun it was-this is not one I’ll soon forget.
**ARC provided by St. Martin's Griffin in exchange for an honest review**
For more of my reviews, please visit:
**
Going to try and finish this before the baby comes!!:P
**
OMG I GOT THE ARC!!
Thank you to some wonderful publishers!:P (And Brittney for forcing me to look into this book lol)
April 14, 2017
Actual rating:
4.5/5 rounded up to five magical stars!
What to say when the book itself floors you with its mesmerizing and beautiful words! This is the kind of book that feels enchanting, comforting, funny, endearing, romantic - and will leave you with a huge smile on your face!
This book is a companion novel to the previous book by Roshani Chokshi,The Star-Touched Queen- so, it's not exactly a sequel. The main characters of "A Crown of Wishes" are different ones - they have appeared or were mentioned briefly in the first book, but I don't think you need to read that first novel to read this. "A Crown of Wishes" can stand alone. But there are a few things that come up that might need having some kind of background info on the other book.
I have to admit, I wasn't a fan of the first book, "The Star Touched Queen." I still don't know why that book didn't work for me - I stopped halfway. But this one clicked with me in so many ways the first didn't.
Plot summary:
A story about a prince and princess of enemy kingdoms, who have to become partners to compete in a magical tournament to fulfill each of their wishes to truly gain the thrones to their respective kingdoms. Even through facing magical tricks and demonic creatures, there's also the challenge of getting along - and their personal journey together throughout this enchanting and terrifying world is what makes this novel so special!
World-building:
The fantastical "Otherworld" in this novel is almost dreamlike in its strangeness. There is a magical forest, and the "Night Bazaar", but mostly the story takes place in"Alaka"- the mythical City of Treasures and Wealth, where the the tournament is held. The place is unpredictable and like something out of a dream, or sometimes a nightmare. I usually like it when there's more structure in a world (and the magic in it) to grasp it clearly. But while I struggled with TSTQ, I think this book struck the right balance between presenting rich and whimsical fantasy settings - and grounding it with strong and gripping character development.
*I really liked all the magical elements and creatures introduced! I'm a huge fan of Indian cinema but the genres rarely ever offer myth and fantasy, so it was fun and fascinating to delve into this world with creatures like the Vanaras (human-sized monkeys), Vetalas (spirits inhabiting dead bodies - icky but strangely quirky in the book), Nagas (half serpent), Yakshas (nature spirits) - and my favorite were theVishakanyas:courtesan-like women with poison in their blood that can kill a human with a touch.
*And not just the fantasy - I love the feel and hints of Indian culture being more present in this book. My knowledge is very limited of it, but I still enjoyed all the mentions of the food, the clothing, the names and terms, the holidays, and just the entire feel is so inviting! I look forward to more books that present different cultures and settings like this one does so beautifully.
Characters:
My ability to connect with a book is always dependent on how much the characters resonate with me. And this book surprised in the absolute best of ways by being socharacter-driven!! The characters in this book are the heart and soul of the story.
Gauri,"The Jewel of Bharata"is a warrior princess in every sense.
She is strong and fierce but her armor is one built out of sacrifice and burdens she's had to bear while protecting herself and her people throughout her tyrannical brother's reign. Her mounting guilt, her hesitance to accept weakness, her distrust, her vulnerability - everything about the character made her so easy to feel for, and root for every step of the way.
Vikram,"The Fox Prince",is the clever and cunning prince of Ujijain. Not a blood heir to his empire, he's spent his life trying to prove himself capable of being the empire's true ruler - but is instead is promised to be nothing more than a "puppet king" by the scorning council. But his belief and hope in magic leads him to an invitation to the tournament and the possibility of gaining true acknowledgment in his role as emperor.
NowVikramis the character that surprised me most! In the absolute best and most amazing ways!!! If you take a look at my status updates, you'll see they are 90% Vikram quotes and moments!
In "The Star Touched Queen", the vague mentions of him gave me the impression he would be a brooding warrior. But he turned out to be such an interestingly fun, sly, curious, and all around awesome character - one who depends on his wits rather than muscle to get by. And his wonderful quirks and mischievous antics made him even more likable - there were hilarious moments. Like his confidence and willingness to do whatever it takes - even dress as a courtesan - to get to where and what he wants:
A total darling who will also make you swoon!
((And what else - I googled the character's full name "Vikramaditya" to see if the author used any inspirational figure, and I love what I found. So, apparently "Vikramaditya" is known as a legendary emperor of Ancient India - the capital being "Ujjain" (so, definitely the inspiration for Ujijain!). There seems to be lots of stories and fantastical legends about him (including Vetalas like in this book!), and according to wiki - he's characterized as the "ideal king" and is either inspired by a true historical figure or is purely a mythical character. So, basically, he's kind of like India's own King Arthur!! So cool!))
Vikram and Gauristart as two opposites forced to work together - he with his sunny optimism and she, her no-nonsense wariness of everything. I love how this book strayed from the usual -when in danger, the girl reaches for her weapons while the guy thinks up a scheme. They ended up making such an amazing team!
But of course, first, their contrasting personalities resulted in continuous banter, sarcasm, bickering, teasing, --all entertaining and wonderful things!
One more:
They have such a great dynamic - going from enemies, to tentative partners, to friends and then slowly to something so much deeper.
I can't separate talking about The Romance from The Character Development in this book - because the characters grow and connecttogetherthroughout the journey. There is such an amazingdepth to how the characters each evolvebut also a convincingly gradual pace to it. And it's the same perfect balance with their feelings for each other - they get to see and accept one another's own pains, and they influence each other in the best way. The romantic arc is filled with both light and meaningful moments - so perfect!
I don't think I've loved two characters (and a romantic couple!) this much since Arin and Kestrel from the Winner's trilogy! Vikram and Gauri are as unforgettable, and have also set the bar high for other YA couples in the next books I'll read!
Another amazing character isAasha- the Vishakanya who yearns to know want it's like to be the human she could have been! Aasha is sort of a sad character - her story reminiscent of "The Little Mermaid". And she becomes an ally to Vikram and Gauri. I especially loved the friendship and understanding that develops between her and Gauri - and it's not an easy thing with Gauri's distrusting nature.
The writing:
I cannot say enough how absolutely gorgeous the writing is! You need to read the book for yourself to experience it! Just as magical as the fantasy!
And I also didn't notice until a while into the book that Gauri's chapters were in first-person point-of-view, and Vikram's in third-person! I don't why, but that worked so well!
*I don't really have any criticisms on the book. Every one I come up with has more to do with my personal preferences than an actual flaw in the book. But I think the book could be a bit more suspenseful - the game itself rarely felt "competitive" (but I think it was supposed to be an unpredictable personal challenge for the characters), or maybe because some elements of the background stories felt elusive or irrelevant (there were a few myths that were strung together vaguely). But then again, I think all that was intentional and part of the book's charm...
Overall -- I wholly recommend this book! If you're looking for an exotic and magical fantasy, you've got it. If you're looking for complex and interesting characters, they're there. If you're looking for a fun and slow-burn romance, look no further. If you're looking for beautiful unforgettable writing, you'll definitely get that! And if you just want a great book to escape into - this is it!
"But why settle for a story, when I could start a legend?"
What to say when the book itself floors you with its mesmerizing and beautiful words! This is the kind of book that feels enchanting, comforting, funny, endearing, romantic - and will leave you with a huge smile on your face!
This book is a companion novel to the previous book by Roshani Chokshi,The Star-Touched Queen- so, it's not exactly a sequel. The main characters of "A Crown of Wishes" are different ones - they have appeared or were mentioned briefly in the first book, but I don't think you need to read that first novel to read this. "A Crown of Wishes" can stand alone. But there are a few things that come up that might need having some kind of background info on the other book.
I have to admit, I wasn't a fan of the first book, "The Star Touched Queen." I still don't know why that book didn't work for me - I stopped halfway. But this one clicked with me in so many ways the first didn't.
Plot summary:
"Play the game and you may yet win your kingdom, not just the husk of its name."
A story about a prince and princess of enemy kingdoms, who have to become partners to compete in a magical tournament to fulfill each of their wishes to truly gain the thrones to their respective kingdoms. Even through facing magical tricks and demonic creatures, there's also the challenge of getting along - and their personal journey together throughout this enchanting and terrifying world is what makes this novel so special!
World-building:
"What was magic anyway, but the world beheld by someone who chose to see it differently?"
The fantastical "Otherworld" in this novel is almost dreamlike in its strangeness. There is a magical forest, and the "Night Bazaar", but mostly the story takes place in"Alaka"- the mythical City of Treasures and Wealth, where the the tournament is held. The place is unpredictable and like something out of a dream, or sometimes a nightmare. I usually like it when there's more structure in a world (and the magic in it) to grasp it clearly. But while I struggled with TSTQ, I think this book struck the right balance between presenting rich and whimsical fantasy settings - and grounding it with strong and gripping character development.
*I really liked all the magical elements and creatures introduced! I'm a huge fan of Indian cinema but the genres rarely ever offer myth and fantasy, so it was fun and fascinating to delve into this world with creatures like the Vanaras (human-sized monkeys), Vetalas (spirits inhabiting dead bodies - icky but strangely quirky in the book), Nagas (half serpent), Yakshas (nature spirits) - and my favorite were theVishakanyas:courtesan-like women with poison in their blood that can kill a human with a touch.
*And not just the fantasy - I love the feel and hints of Indian culture being more present in this book. My knowledge is very limited of it, but I still enjoyed all the mentions of the food, the clothing, the names and terms, the holidays, and just the entire feel is so inviting! I look forward to more books that present different cultures and settings like this one does so beautifully.
Characters:
“Find the one who glows, with blood on the lips and fangs in the heart.”
My ability to connect with a book is always dependent on how much the characters resonate with me. And this book surprised in the absolute best of ways by being socharacter-driven!! The characters in this book are the heart and soul of the story.
Gauri,"The Jewel of Bharata"is a warrior princess in every sense.
"Death might be waiting, but I was going to be a queen. I would have my throne if I had to carve a path of blood and bone to get it back.
Death could wait. "
She is strong and fierce but her armor is one built out of sacrifice and burdens she's had to bear while protecting herself and her people throughout her tyrannical brother's reign. Her mounting guilt, her hesitance to accept weakness, her distrust, her vulnerability - everything about the character made her so easy to feel for, and root for every step of the way.
Vikram,"The Fox Prince",is the clever and cunning prince of Ujijain. Not a blood heir to his empire, he's spent his life trying to prove himself capable of being the empire's true ruler - but is instead is promised to be nothing more than a "puppet king" by the scorning council. But his belief and hope in magic leads him to an invitation to the tournament and the possibility of gaining true acknowledgment in his role as emperor.
"He was raised on a bellyful of want—always kept at a distance, always in sight of everything he wanted and could never sink his teeth into—which only made him that much more attuned to seeing through words and straight to the desires."
NowVikramis the character that surprised me most! In the absolute best and most amazing ways!!! If you take a look at my status updates, you'll see they are 90% Vikram quotes and moments!
In "The Star Touched Queen", the vague mentions of him gave me the impression he would be a brooding warrior. But he turned out to be such an interestingly fun, sly, curious, and all around awesome character - one who depends on his wits rather than muscle to get by. And his wonderful quirks and mischievous antics made him even more likable - there were hilarious moments. Like his confidence and willingness to do whatever it takes - even dress as a courtesan - to get to where and what he wants:
"Once, when he was ten, he attempted to fly by attaching silk scarves to his arms and leaping from a tree. It did not work. When he was fifteen, he dressed like a courtesan to sneak into the harem. He ended up appearing too convincing to a palace guard and was forced to throw off his silks and punch the man. All things considered, this was not the most shameful thing he had endured."
A total darling who will also make you swoon!
((And what else - I googled the character's full name "Vikramaditya" to see if the author used any inspirational figure, and I love what I found. So, apparently "Vikramaditya" is known as a legendary emperor of Ancient India - the capital being "Ujjain" (so, definitely the inspiration for Ujijain!). There seems to be lots of stories and fantastical legends about him (including Vetalas like in this book!), and according to wiki - he's characterized as the "ideal king" and is either inspired by a true historical figure or is purely a mythical character. So, basically, he's kind of like India's own King Arthur!! So cool!))
Vikram and Gauristart as two opposites forced to work together - he with his sunny optimism and she, her no-nonsense wariness of everything. I love how this book strayed from the usual -when in danger, the girl reaches for her weapons while the guy thinks up a scheme. They ended up making such an amazing team!
But of course, first, their contrasting personalities resulted in continuous banter, sarcasm, bickering, teasing, --all entertaining and wonderful things!
“You’re certain that rakshasi fruit is out of your system?” asked Vikram.
"Yes?”
"Good.” He took a deep breath. “Because, once more, I told you so.”
"You do realize that I don’t need the enhancements of demon fruit to knock you to the ground?”
"I do. But I concede that some bodily harm from you is inevitable. I’m just trying to minimize the damage.”
"How very wise,” I said, rolling my eyes.
One more:
(Vikram):"Have some faith.”
(Gauri):"Between faith and distrust, which one is more likely to keep you alive?”
"And which one is more likely to let you experience living?”
I threw up my hands. “Why is everything so philosophical with you?”
He shrugged. “I like thinking.”
They have such a great dynamic - going from enemies, to tentative partners, to friends and then slowly to something so much deeper.
I can't separate talking about The Romance from The Character Development in this book - because the characters grow and connecttogetherthroughout the journey. There is such an amazingdepth to how the characters each evolvebut also a convincingly gradual pace to it. And it's the same perfect balance with their feelings for each other - they get to see and accept one another's own pains, and they influence each other in the best way. The romantic arc is filled with both light and meaningful moments - so perfect!
I didn’t want to cut out my heart. I wanted to give it. Freely and without feeling as if it would be turned into a weapon against me. I wanted freedom to thaw me, to let it break the walls Skanda’s rule had forced me to build. I wanted the privilege of weakness.
I don't think I've loved two characters (and a romantic couple!) this much since Arin and Kestrel from the Winner's trilogy! Vikram and Gauri are as unforgettable, and have also set the bar high for other YA couples in the next books I'll read!
Another amazing character isAasha- the Vishakanya who yearns to know want it's like to be the human she could have been! Aasha is sort of a sad character - her story reminiscent of "The Little Mermaid". And she becomes an ally to Vikram and Gauri. I especially loved the friendship and understanding that develops between her and Gauri - and it's not an easy thing with Gauri's distrusting nature.
The writing:
"I’d almost forgotten the true power of a story… how it lulled you outside your thoughts, let you process the world in a way that was palatable. Not poisonous. Calm rushed through me."
I cannot say enough how absolutely gorgeous the writing is! You need to read the book for yourself to experience it! Just as magical as the fantasy!
And I also didn't notice until a while into the book that Gauri's chapters were in first-person point-of-view, and Vikram's in third-person! I don't why, but that worked so well!
*I don't really have any criticisms on the book. Every one I come up with has more to do with my personal preferences than an actual flaw in the book. But I think the book could be a bit more suspenseful - the game itself rarely felt "competitive" (but I think it was supposed to be an unpredictable personal challenge for the characters), or maybe because some elements of the background stories felt elusive or irrelevant (there were a few myths that were strung together vaguely). But then again, I think all that was intentional and part of the book's charm...
Overall -- I wholly recommend this book! If you're looking for an exotic and magical fantasy, you've got it. If you're looking for complex and interesting characters, they're there. If you're looking for a fun and slow-burn romance, look no further. If you're looking for beautiful unforgettable writing, you'll definitely get that! And if you just want a great book to escape into - this is it!
April 22, 2017
Better than the first book. Even if I'm given them the same overall rating. This one was better.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
A Crown of Wishes by Roshani Chokshi
Book Two of The Star-Touched Queen series
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication Date: March 28, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Gauri, the princess of Bharata, has been taken as a prisoner of war by her kingdom’s enemies. Faced with a future of exile and scorn, Gauri has nothing left to lose. Hope unexpectedly comes in the form of Vikram, the cunning prince of a neighboring land and her sworn enemy kingdom. Unsatisfied with becoming a mere puppet king, Vikram offers Gauri a chance to win back her kingdom in exchange for her battle prowess. Together, they’ll have to set aside their differences and team up to win the Tournament of Wishes—a competition held in a mythical city where the Lord of Wealth promises a wish to the victor.
Reaching the tournament is just the beginning. Once they arrive, danger takes on new shapes: poisonous courtesans and mischievous story birds, a feast of fears and twisted fairy revels.
Every which way they turn new trials will test their wit and strength. But what Gauri and Vikram will soon discover is that there’s nothing more dangerous than what they most desire.
What I Liked:
Last year, I read The Star-Touched Queen and while I enjoyed it overall, I didn't love it like most people did. It was a wonderful story, but I wanted the hero to be less one-dimensional, and I wanted the romance to be more direct and present. I am extremely pleased with A Crown of Wishes because it has everything I liked in The Star-Touched Queen - AND the issues I had with The Star-Touched Queen are not present in this book. I liked A Crown of Wishes more than The Star-Touched Queen, and I think it is better than its predecessor.
Vikram has always known that he will inherit the throne of Ujijaiin but he will only ever be a puppet Emperor. The council has never treated him like a full-blood prince - given that he was adopted by the Emperor. When Vikram is invited to play in the Tournament of Wishes, he does not refuse. He must find a partner, and that leads him to Gauri. Gauri, princess of Bharata, has been a prisoner for months. When the prince of an enemy kingdom offers freedom in exchange for her being his partner in a deadly and magical game, she accepts, hoping to kill him and be rid of him quickly. But they discover that they needed each other more than they realized, if they want to make it out of the Tournament alive, and win. The prize is a wish for any victor, and both Vikram and Gauri have desires born of their cruel pasts. But desires are dangerous, just as dangerous as secrets.
One thing that I was extremely excited to discover is that this book is written in dual POV - we get Gauri's first-person POV, and Vikram's third-person POV. I complained about how I thought Amar felt so one-dimensional, in The Star-Touched Queen. Well, that problem was very, very fixed in this book, given the second POV (Vikram's).
I'll start with Vikram, since the story starts with Vikram. I would argue that this book is just as much Vikram's as it is Gauri's - she does not hold the spotlight. Vikram is the Fox Prince, an eighteen-year-old prince who is clever and very intelligent. He is not a warrior, and he doesn't even carry weapons. That surprised me, because what prince in any world (made-up or real) isn't trained to be a warrior? I liked that Vikram is different in that sense - he isn't an alpha, he isn't a warrior. He isn't a passive, scared boy either. I love how clever he is, and how he is so patient and steady.
Gauri, on the other hand, is a warrior princess. She is brash and bold and wild. She wants her throne, and she is determined to get it, doing whatever it takes. Gauri is the "alpha" in this story, the one who demands and takes and bosses. I liked her a lot because I could see parts of myself in her. She isn't cold-hearted like many believe her to be (like she believes herself to be). There is more to Gauri than the Jewel, the princess of Bharata, the warrior.
The two of them together is like fire and ice. They antagonize each other, needle each other, irritate each other, but they stick together, save each other's lives, and look out for each other. Their friendship (at first it's friendship) is a slow-growing thing that doesn't have the best start. But I liked seeing them grow to care for each other, and then I liked seeing that turn into something else.
This book isn't a necessarily a romance, but I loved the romance. I loved how Vikram and Gauri's romance is a slow-burn one that is also more direct and strong than the romance in The Star-Touched Queen. Neither character here plays games with each other, or runs from each other. Rather, they learn each other and find their way. Even with Gauri's emotional and mental armor, and Vikram's selflessness, the pair never shy away from each other. It's a sweet romance.
This story is so much fun to read! Fun, and sometimes heartbreaking, but a lot of fun and sometimes hilarious. Vikram and Gauri travel to the Otherworld in order to try to win a wish for themselves. They must complete several tasks, and also try to stay alive. The tasks require both of their strengths, and for them to overcome their weaknesses and fears. This story is so thorough and engrossing - you'll feel like you've read a lifetime's worth of a story, and not a month's worth.
Also, props to the author for doing such good research and/or including so much of her culture in this book. As an Indian girl, I can't tell you how happy it makes me to read a book that features aspects of Indian culture, written by an Indian author. Chokshi does a lovely job with the Indian influences she incorporates in the story.
Masterful storytelling and writing, as always. I think everyone agreed that the writing of The Star-Touched Queen was phenomenal. The author gets even better, in this book. I love how lush her writing is! Also I have to say, I love how many food references there were. So. Much. Food.
I won't say anything more because I don't want to spoil anything, but I really enjoyed this book. I loved the dual POVs, the character development, the romance, the Tournament. The ending is PERFECT. Trust me, it's a great ending, and it's so satisfying. I'd love to know the logistics of a certain aspects of the ending, but maybe the author will write an epilogue. Or a book three...?
What I Did Not Like:
I honestly can't think of anything to write about here! The author "fixed" the issues I had in book one, so I'm pretty satisfied. Maybe seeing Gauri feel more guilty over a certain aspect of the ending? It was her fault, in any case. Let me keep quiet!
Would I Recommend It:
I recommend this book, whether you liked The Star-Touched Queen or not, whether you read The Star-Touched Queen or not. Remember, I liked it but didn't totally love it like many people did. I can safely say that this book was (even) better. This book is full of great diversity, rich culture, and lovely storytelling and writing. And a gorgeous cover!
Rating:
4.5 stars. I'm rounding to 4 stars which is technically the same rating I gave The Star-Touched Queen, but know that I liked this book more. Both books had a tough and admirable heroine, but I think the inclusion of Vikram's POV and the stronger romance made this companion sequel a better book than The Star-Touched Queen!
Pre-read squees:
WOW WOW WOWIE CHECK OUT THAT COVER!!!! I love it even more thanThe Star-Touched Queen's!!!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
A Crown of Wishes by Roshani Chokshi
Book Two of The Star-Touched Queen series
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication Date: March 28, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
Gauri, the princess of Bharata, has been taken as a prisoner of war by her kingdom’s enemies. Faced with a future of exile and scorn, Gauri has nothing left to lose. Hope unexpectedly comes in the form of Vikram, the cunning prince of a neighboring land and her sworn enemy kingdom. Unsatisfied with becoming a mere puppet king, Vikram offers Gauri a chance to win back her kingdom in exchange for her battle prowess. Together, they’ll have to set aside their differences and team up to win the Tournament of Wishes—a competition held in a mythical city where the Lord of Wealth promises a wish to the victor.
Reaching the tournament is just the beginning. Once they arrive, danger takes on new shapes: poisonous courtesans and mischievous story birds, a feast of fears and twisted fairy revels.
Every which way they turn new trials will test their wit and strength. But what Gauri and Vikram will soon discover is that there’s nothing more dangerous than what they most desire.
What I Liked:
Last year, I read The Star-Touched Queen and while I enjoyed it overall, I didn't love it like most people did. It was a wonderful story, but I wanted the hero to be less one-dimensional, and I wanted the romance to be more direct and present. I am extremely pleased with A Crown of Wishes because it has everything I liked in The Star-Touched Queen - AND the issues I had with The Star-Touched Queen are not present in this book. I liked A Crown of Wishes more than The Star-Touched Queen, and I think it is better than its predecessor.
Vikram has always known that he will inherit the throne of Ujijaiin but he will only ever be a puppet Emperor. The council has never treated him like a full-blood prince - given that he was adopted by the Emperor. When Vikram is invited to play in the Tournament of Wishes, he does not refuse. He must find a partner, and that leads him to Gauri. Gauri, princess of Bharata, has been a prisoner for months. When the prince of an enemy kingdom offers freedom in exchange for her being his partner in a deadly and magical game, she accepts, hoping to kill him and be rid of him quickly. But they discover that they needed each other more than they realized, if they want to make it out of the Tournament alive, and win. The prize is a wish for any victor, and both Vikram and Gauri have desires born of their cruel pasts. But desires are dangerous, just as dangerous as secrets.
One thing that I was extremely excited to discover is that this book is written in dual POV - we get Gauri's first-person POV, and Vikram's third-person POV. I complained about how I thought Amar felt so one-dimensional, in The Star-Touched Queen. Well, that problem was very, very fixed in this book, given the second POV (Vikram's).
I'll start with Vikram, since the story starts with Vikram. I would argue that this book is just as much Vikram's as it is Gauri's - she does not hold the spotlight. Vikram is the Fox Prince, an eighteen-year-old prince who is clever and very intelligent. He is not a warrior, and he doesn't even carry weapons. That surprised me, because what prince in any world (made-up or real) isn't trained to be a warrior? I liked that Vikram is different in that sense - he isn't an alpha, he isn't a warrior. He isn't a passive, scared boy either. I love how clever he is, and how he is so patient and steady.
Gauri, on the other hand, is a warrior princess. She is brash and bold and wild. She wants her throne, and she is determined to get it, doing whatever it takes. Gauri is the "alpha" in this story, the one who demands and takes and bosses. I liked her a lot because I could see parts of myself in her. She isn't cold-hearted like many believe her to be (like she believes herself to be). There is more to Gauri than the Jewel, the princess of Bharata, the warrior.
The two of them together is like fire and ice. They antagonize each other, needle each other, irritate each other, but they stick together, save each other's lives, and look out for each other. Their friendship (at first it's friendship) is a slow-growing thing that doesn't have the best start. But I liked seeing them grow to care for each other, and then I liked seeing that turn into something else.
This book isn't a necessarily a romance, but I loved the romance. I loved how Vikram and Gauri's romance is a slow-burn one that is also more direct and strong than the romance in The Star-Touched Queen. Neither character here plays games with each other, or runs from each other. Rather, they learn each other and find their way. Even with Gauri's emotional and mental armor, and Vikram's selflessness, the pair never shy away from each other. It's a sweet romance.
This story is so much fun to read! Fun, and sometimes heartbreaking, but a lot of fun and sometimes hilarious. Vikram and Gauri travel to the Otherworld in order to try to win a wish for themselves. They must complete several tasks, and also try to stay alive. The tasks require both of their strengths, and for them to overcome their weaknesses and fears. This story is so thorough and engrossing - you'll feel like you've read a lifetime's worth of a story, and not a month's worth.
Also, props to the author for doing such good research and/or including so much of her culture in this book. As an Indian girl, I can't tell you how happy it makes me to read a book that features aspects of Indian culture, written by an Indian author. Chokshi does a lovely job with the Indian influences she incorporates in the story.
Masterful storytelling and writing, as always. I think everyone agreed that the writing of The Star-Touched Queen was phenomenal. The author gets even better, in this book. I love how lush her writing is! Also I have to say, I love how many food references there were. So. Much. Food.
I won't say anything more because I don't want to spoil anything, but I really enjoyed this book. I loved the dual POVs, the character development, the romance, the Tournament. The ending is PERFECT. Trust me, it's a great ending, and it's so satisfying. I'd love to know the logistics of a certain aspects of the ending, but maybe the author will write an epilogue. Or a book three...?
What I Did Not Like:
I honestly can't think of anything to write about here! The author "fixed" the issues I had in book one, so I'm pretty satisfied. Maybe seeing Gauri feel more guilty over a certain aspect of the ending? It was her fault, in any case. Let me keep quiet!
Would I Recommend It:
I recommend this book, whether you liked The Star-Touched Queen or not, whether you read The Star-Touched Queen or not. Remember, I liked it but didn't totally love it like many people did. I can safely say that this book was (even) better. This book is full of great diversity, rich culture, and lovely storytelling and writing. And a gorgeous cover!
Rating:
4.5 stars. I'm rounding to 4 stars which is technically the same rating I gave The Star-Touched Queen, but know that I liked this book more. Both books had a tough and admirable heroine, but I think the inclusion of Vikram's POV and the stronger romance made this companion sequel a better book than The Star-Touched Queen!
Pre-read squees:
WOW WOW WOWIE CHECK OUT THAT COVER!!!! I love it even more thanThe Star-Touched Queen's!!!
September 21, 2017
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctumhttps://bibliosanctum.com/2017/05/21/...
I picked up A Crown of Wishes after the fantastic read that was The Star-Touched Queen, and I’m glad I did. This is despite the book being a companion novel rather than a true sequel, because while the two may feature different stories and characters, they are the same in all the ways that count – in their creative vision and excellence.
Once upon a time in a kingdom called Ujijain there lived a prince named Vikram. Known as the Fox Prince, he was offered a chance to compete in the mysterious Tournament of Wishes held in the otherworldly realm of Alaka, city of Treasures and Wealth. It is said that winner will be granted any wish they desire—and being the adopted son of the emperor and merely regarded as a puppet prince, Vikram thinks he knows what it is he will ask for should he prevail. But first, he’s going to have to find a partner.
Enter Gauri, a warrior princess who attempted a coup against her tyrannical brother and failed. Now she is in exile and a prisoner of war, captured by her kingdom’s enemies and facing death. In Vikram’s eyes, however, she is the ideal teammate—fierce, strong, and powerful, she’s the perfect complement to his wit and cunning. Gauri, on the other hand, is less than impressed with Vikram’s naiveté and lack of fighting ability, and yet, if it’s a choice between execution and going off on a wild goose chase with some strange fool prince, she knows which option she’s going to pick. So together they team up and head off to Alaka, with every confidence that they will emerge victorious. But upon their arrival in the otherworld, Gauri realizes that the two of them may have gotten in way over their heads. Things work differently here than in the real world, with dangers taking new forms. Curses and other magical or supernatural threats abound, twisting their aspirations into desperation and destruction.
While I was reading, I just couldn’t help but think this is the book I wish Caraval had been. Thematically they are very similar, each novel featuring an otherworldly, magical competition at its center. The difference is, The Crown of Wishes does it so much better. In contrast to the frenetic, almost random structure of Caraval, this one instead features an organized, well thought out plotline which gradually expands beyond the two protagonists’ personal stories. In some ways, it reminded me of a series of integrated folk tales, focusing on Gauri and Vikram as they discover more about themselves and each other with the completion of each challenge. Not surprisingly, the end result is a book that feels significantly more impactful and emotionally complex.
Ultimately I gave The Crown of Wishes the same rating as I did The Star-Touched Queen, because I enjoyed both books equally. But just as the original does some things better, there are likewise areas where the follow-up tops its predecessor. Those who thought the pacing was too slow in the first book will probably find this to be less of a problem in The Crown of Wishes, for example. It is a much more action-oriented and plot-driven book, with sustained high levels of excitement as the tournament progresses through its various stages.
I also preferred the relationship dynamics between the main characters here, over the one between Maya and Amar in The Star-Touched Queen. In a word, Vikram and Gauri were adorable. While a love story like theirs is in no way unique in YA, I feel Roshani Chokshi deserves a tremendous amount of credit for her gift in dialogue writing. On not once but several occasions, I found myself smiling at the cleverness and sharp humor in the characters’ back-and-forth banter, and that is a rare thing for me indeed. There’s a sense of real chemistry between them, making this a more satisfying YA romance than most.
The world-building was also wonderful. If you enjoyed this aspect from The Star-Touched Queen, then you’ll be even more thrilled with the level of detail here, as it is another step up from the author’s debut efforts. I loved Alaka, and the aura of myth and mystery that surrounded it. In fact, at times it felt like an information overload, simply because the strange and magical descriptions would keep coming and coming. The deluge got to be a little too much at times, but overall I appreciated the introduction to this rich and beautiful setting.
When all is said and done, A Crown of Wishes delivered everything I hoped for in a follow-up to one of the top YA novels I read last year, and I highly recommend both books in The Star-Touched Queen sequence. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the author’s future projects.
Audiobook Comments: Narrator Priya Ayyar did a fantastic job on the audiobook production of The Star-Touched Queen, which was I was so happy to see her reprise the role for the sequel. Her strong performance was one of the reasons why I decided to continue with this format for A Crown of Wishes, and I was not disappointed. Her reading was even better this time around, and once again she did great with the inflections and accents. I would not hesitate to recommend this series in audio.
I picked up A Crown of Wishes after the fantastic read that was The Star-Touched Queen, and I’m glad I did. This is despite the book being a companion novel rather than a true sequel, because while the two may feature different stories and characters, they are the same in all the ways that count – in their creative vision and excellence.
Once upon a time in a kingdom called Ujijain there lived a prince named Vikram. Known as the Fox Prince, he was offered a chance to compete in the mysterious Tournament of Wishes held in the otherworldly realm of Alaka, city of Treasures and Wealth. It is said that winner will be granted any wish they desire—and being the adopted son of the emperor and merely regarded as a puppet prince, Vikram thinks he knows what it is he will ask for should he prevail. But first, he’s going to have to find a partner.
Enter Gauri, a warrior princess who attempted a coup against her tyrannical brother and failed. Now she is in exile and a prisoner of war, captured by her kingdom’s enemies and facing death. In Vikram’s eyes, however, she is the ideal teammate—fierce, strong, and powerful, she’s the perfect complement to his wit and cunning. Gauri, on the other hand, is less than impressed with Vikram’s naiveté and lack of fighting ability, and yet, if it’s a choice between execution and going off on a wild goose chase with some strange fool prince, she knows which option she’s going to pick. So together they team up and head off to Alaka, with every confidence that they will emerge victorious. But upon their arrival in the otherworld, Gauri realizes that the two of them may have gotten in way over their heads. Things work differently here than in the real world, with dangers taking new forms. Curses and other magical or supernatural threats abound, twisting their aspirations into desperation and destruction.
While I was reading, I just couldn’t help but think this is the book I wish Caraval had been. Thematically they are very similar, each novel featuring an otherworldly, magical competition at its center. The difference is, The Crown of Wishes does it so much better. In contrast to the frenetic, almost random structure of Caraval, this one instead features an organized, well thought out plotline which gradually expands beyond the two protagonists’ personal stories. In some ways, it reminded me of a series of integrated folk tales, focusing on Gauri and Vikram as they discover more about themselves and each other with the completion of each challenge. Not surprisingly, the end result is a book that feels significantly more impactful and emotionally complex.
Ultimately I gave The Crown of Wishes the same rating as I did The Star-Touched Queen, because I enjoyed both books equally. But just as the original does some things better, there are likewise areas where the follow-up tops its predecessor. Those who thought the pacing was too slow in the first book will probably find this to be less of a problem in The Crown of Wishes, for example. It is a much more action-oriented and plot-driven book, with sustained high levels of excitement as the tournament progresses through its various stages.
I also preferred the relationship dynamics between the main characters here, over the one between Maya and Amar in The Star-Touched Queen. In a word, Vikram and Gauri were adorable. While a love story like theirs is in no way unique in YA, I feel Roshani Chokshi deserves a tremendous amount of credit for her gift in dialogue writing. On not once but several occasions, I found myself smiling at the cleverness and sharp humor in the characters’ back-and-forth banter, and that is a rare thing for me indeed. There’s a sense of real chemistry between them, making this a more satisfying YA romance than most.
The world-building was also wonderful. If you enjoyed this aspect from The Star-Touched Queen, then you’ll be even more thrilled with the level of detail here, as it is another step up from the author’s debut efforts. I loved Alaka, and the aura of myth and mystery that surrounded it. In fact, at times it felt like an information overload, simply because the strange and magical descriptions would keep coming and coming. The deluge got to be a little too much at times, but overall I appreciated the introduction to this rich and beautiful setting.
When all is said and done, A Crown of Wishes delivered everything I hoped for in a follow-up to one of the top YA novels I read last year, and I highly recommend both books in The Star-Touched Queen sequence. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the author’s future projects.
Audiobook Comments: Narrator Priya Ayyar did a fantastic job on the audiobook production of The Star-Touched Queen, which was I was so happy to see her reprise the role for the sequel. Her strong performance was one of the reasons why I decided to continue with this format for A Crown of Wishes, and I was not disappointed. Her reading was even better this time around, and once again she did great with the inflections and accents. I would not hesitate to recommend this series in audio.
August 18, 2017
So what is A Crown of Wishes?
It is a carefully-crafted creation of hopes and fears, subtly laced with winsome romance and witty humor, ineffable charms and incredible challenges, each world-building word building upon itself with the precise and ancient symmetry of a mystic maze-like mandala until one realizes they've crossed the magical barrier between reading and reality, where Roshani Chokshi grants the reader the truest wish of their heart by fulfilling the very purpose of the story itself.
Roshani's one-of-a-kind talents sing through angelic prose as imagination unleashed floods the mind with the most fantastic of fantasy environments, so inherently and indelibly Indian-inspired, so rich with color and flavor, depth and darkness, dimension and detail, a world that can be enjoyed over and over again at any pace, (Tarsem Singh, PLEASE ADAPT THESE BOOKS TO FILM!) where absolutely nothing is impossible, including the breaking of promises, wills, rules, bones, and hearts, through the perfectly magical veil of whimsy, warfare, wit and wisdom.
Setting herself forth as a true master, Roshani's story-telling soul has not only proven to be powerful and limitless, but brutally honest and deeply personal, speaking to me in a way that it seems no other writer ever has or ever can, and not only did this book draw tears from me, it made me realize thatthis,this my friends, this so so so special story can only be enjoyed to the fullest when shared with someone so very very special to you, and I was so thankful to share the reading and deep enjoyment of this story with the amazing Svetlana.
My deepest thanks to Roshani for the signed and personalized hardcover and for taking the time and effort and every precious fractal of fictional magic involved to make such a beautiful and wonderful story and my deepest thanks to Svetlana for sharing such a rich and rewarding reading experience with me.
Recommended for everyone.
It is a carefully-crafted creation of hopes and fears, subtly laced with winsome romance and witty humor, ineffable charms and incredible challenges, each world-building word building upon itself with the precise and ancient symmetry of a mystic maze-like mandala until one realizes they've crossed the magical barrier between reading and reality, where Roshani Chokshi grants the reader the truest wish of their heart by fulfilling the very purpose of the story itself.
Roshani's one-of-a-kind talents sing through angelic prose as imagination unleashed floods the mind with the most fantastic of fantasy environments, so inherently and indelibly Indian-inspired, so rich with color and flavor, depth and darkness, dimension and detail, a world that can be enjoyed over and over again at any pace, (Tarsem Singh, PLEASE ADAPT THESE BOOKS TO FILM!) where absolutely nothing is impossible, including the breaking of promises, wills, rules, bones, and hearts, through the perfectly magical veil of whimsy, warfare, wit and wisdom.
Setting herself forth as a true master, Roshani's story-telling soul has not only proven to be powerful and limitless, but brutally honest and deeply personal, speaking to me in a way that it seems no other writer ever has or ever can, and not only did this book draw tears from me, it made me realize thatthis,this my friends, this so so so special story can only be enjoyed to the fullest when shared with someone so very very special to you, and I was so thankful to share the reading and deep enjoyment of this story with the amazing Svetlana.
My deepest thanks to Roshani for the signed and personalized hardcover and for taking the time and effort and every precious fractal of fictional magic involved to make such a beautiful and wonderful story and my deepest thanks to Svetlana for sharing such a rich and rewarding reading experience with me.
Recommended for everyone.
July 18, 2017
So everyone and their mother loves this and here I am alone in my dark little corner wondering what it would feel like a be part of the massive crowd that finds this breathtakingly beautiful.
Normally, I get why people adore books that I find utterly lacking but here I'm completely at a lost.
Is it the writing? Which yes, I'll give it that, it's quite lyrical. But prose in it of itself cannot win me over. I mean, what more prose than Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet when at the end of the day all they were were two moronic teenagers mistaking hormones and lust for love.
Is it the novelty of the world? It's not too common we see Indian mythology in the YA world but in my opinion this felt so crammed up with so many creatures that not any of them had any decent page time. They were whacked out of the story before they had any time to really surface.
As for the characters? I can't even be bothered to remember their names. They gavebleha whole new meaning. They felt short on every aspect the author tried to depict. The girl was made to be this fiery character, a valiant, resourceful, cunning princess. Sadly all she resembled was a fire that never burned, a light that never shone. And as for the guy, he's depicted as smart butdamn,that dude could berealstupid sometimes.
Your face right now after reading what the gif says was my faceTHE.ENTIRE.TIMEI dedicated to this book.
I just can't keep pretending I'll get past that 50%. This is boring to astronomical proportions, weird as crap, and I'm just past the point of caring.
Normally, I get why people adore books that I find utterly lacking but here I'm completely at a lost.
Is it the writing? Which yes, I'll give it that, it's quite lyrical. But prose in it of itself cannot win me over. I mean, what more prose than Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet when at the end of the day all they were were two moronic teenagers mistaking hormones and lust for love.
Is it the novelty of the world? It's not too common we see Indian mythology in the YA world but in my opinion this felt so crammed up with so many creatures that not any of them had any decent page time. They were whacked out of the story before they had any time to really surface.
As for the characters? I can't even be bothered to remember their names. They gavebleha whole new meaning. They felt short on every aspect the author tried to depict. The girl was made to be this fiery character, a valiant, resourceful, cunning princess. Sadly all she resembled was a fire that never burned, a light that never shone. And as for the guy, he's depicted as smart butdamn,that dude could berealstupid sometimes.
Your face right now after reading what the gif says was my faceTHE.ENTIRE.TIMEI dedicated to this book.
I just can't keep pretending I'll get past that 50%. This is boring to astronomical proportions, weird as crap, and I'm just past the point of caring.
January 4, 2018
2.5
I literally cannot tell you what went on in this book except for like the first 15% of it?? lmao anyway, this book sucked. I was in a constant state of utter confusion, I cannot begin to describe just how confusing it was. Roshani Chokshi probably over invested in the writing instead of focusing on making the plot understandable and honestly I don't give two shits about beautiful writing when the plot is confusing because obviously I won't be able to enjoy it????
As you can tell I suffered majorly with this book but there were two great things about it! One is Vikram; oh boy oh boy, he is gorgeous. The second good thing is the cover. At least it'll look great on my shelf.
I'm just glad the book is finally over.
I literally cannot tell you what went on in this book except for like the first 15% of it?? lmao anyway, this book sucked. I was in a constant state of utter confusion, I cannot begin to describe just how confusing it was. Roshani Chokshi probably over invested in the writing instead of focusing on making the plot understandable and honestly I don't give two shits about beautiful writing when the plot is confusing because obviously I won't be able to enjoy it????
As you can tell I suffered majorly with this book but there were two great things about it! One is Vikram; oh boy oh boy, he is gorgeous. The second good thing is the cover. At least it'll look great on my shelf.
I'm just glad the book is finally over.
April 2, 2021
I loved this so much!!
:: buddy read with the amazingly lovelyMelanie♥
____________________
1.)The Star-Touched Queen★★★★✩
:: buddy read with the amazingly lovelyMelanie♥
____________________
1.)The Star-Touched Queen★★★★✩
March 1, 2017
WOW... I seriously think Roshani Chokshi just might be my new favorite author! Her writing is exquisite, the world building is lush with beautiful written imagery, the spell-binding. At the end of the book I just held the book and savored the story and her words...
This story is about two people. A girl,"with blood on her lips and fangs in the heart"also known asThe ‘Jewel of Bharata.’Gauri is who she's fierce because she's had to become so in order to survive her life with her brother as King. She was raised to use cosmetics as a sort of war paint, to paint herself as an armor in silk as makeup. Her character is brilliant as she tries so desperately to save her people from the cruel tyranny of her brother. But she looses over and over, so her life has hardened her and made her hide her weaknesses and strike out at any and all her enemies.
"Existence is the gift. Life is a choice."
Then we also have Vikram. Also known as theFox Prince.In his world he is the heir to the throne but will never be accepted among
his piers regardless of how his countrymen praise his mind and foxy slyness. He was adopted and therefore seen as a puppet by those who would use that knowledge to rule through him instead. He is confident in his smarts and never doubts himself. Yet he is also susceptible to hurt and pain which is hides behind smirks and off handed remarks. He wants be seen as someone with potential to rule the throne on his own merits and not by blood.
"Humanity has nothing to do with what runs through your veins or shows up on your skin."
Here we have these two people who actually aren't allied kingdoms. In fact they kind of hate each other. But with a chance meeting they've both decided to put aside their differences for a time as each decide they want to enter the tournament of wishes in order to get a wish. With everything to lose they had to join forces and help each other out in sticky situations, each having to change and grow in order to survive the tournament.
I absolutely loved the gods involved and how vivid the author painted them. The kingdoms in which Gauri and Vikram have to pass through were amazing and vibrant. I appreciated the backstories and time spent on the history and differences between each kingdom and ruler.
Overall I can't give this book enough stars I loved it so much. Seriously am in love with the writing style and storytelling by this author and cannot wait to read more from her!
Sexual Content: mild
Lanugage: mild
Violence: moderate
Drugs/Alcohol: mild
* A HUGE thank you to St. Martin's Griffin for this ARC which I got in exchange for an honest review*
February 17, 2017
A Crown of Wishes is a spellbinding follow up to the stunning The Star-Touched Queen which was based on a Hades and Persephone retelling. TSTQ has a focus on Indian folklore, mythology, horoscopes and infused with wild imagination and enchanting writing. And yes, I have gone slightly mad with quotes <3
Vikram’s eyes widened. “What’s this? Praise from Her Beastliness in the morning? Are you under a curse that makes you friendly before noon? If so, how do we make it permanent?”
A Crown of Wishes follows Gauri and Vikram both princess and prince of neighbouring warring kingdoms, who take part in a deadly tournament of wits and magic. They both have nothing left to lose and take risks for their kingdom and people. Gauri wants her lecherous brother off her throne and to be able to rule her kingdom whether she’s an unmarried woman or not. Vikram the sly fox prince will never be seen as a true ruler and being surrounded by a council of vipers he must never let his mask slip, he must be cunning and swift and prove he can rule regardless of his heritage.
“It felt silly to say that he couldn’t bear to lose her. He never had her. She was not a thing to be possessed. But her entrance in his life had conjured light. And losing the light of her would plunge him into a darkness he’d never find his way out of.”
The romance is a slow burn and highly addictive, if this is your type of romance then you will find yourself flying through the pages, highly anticipating the next interaction with a wildly beating heart. Gauri and Vikram have chemistry straight away, Gauri may have tried to kill Vikram in the beginning buy hey that’s just how Gauri is - stab ask questions later. I really don't want to say too much about this book because I feel it's one that the reader should go into slightly blind but I will say it's perfectly paced with lots of mythology and mystery to keep you entertained.
He turned to me, mischief glinting in his eyes.
“How do they celebrate good fortune in Bharata? In Ujijain, we kiss."
“Look elsewhere.”
“Are you sure? You spend an awful amount of time looking at my lips.”
“That’s only because I’m horrified at the sheer idiocy of the words leaping out of them.”
I highly recommend A Crown of Wishes for fantasy fans and for suckers for magical retellings with their own unique twist. Chokshi has such a lyrical way of writing, she has the ability to pull you into the story and allow you to experience everything first hand. I never wanted to leave the magical world with its lush wildlife and vivid scenery. I’m eagerly awaiting the short story Death and Night as I can’t wait to revisit the dazzling world Chokski has created.
Literary-ly Obsessed (Blog)|Twitter|Instagram
Vikram’s eyes widened. “What’s this? Praise from Her Beastliness in the morning? Are you under a curse that makes you friendly before noon? If so, how do we make it permanent?”
A Crown of Wishes follows Gauri and Vikram both princess and prince of neighbouring warring kingdoms, who take part in a deadly tournament of wits and magic. They both have nothing left to lose and take risks for their kingdom and people. Gauri wants her lecherous brother off her throne and to be able to rule her kingdom whether she’s an unmarried woman or not. Vikram the sly fox prince will never be seen as a true ruler and being surrounded by a council of vipers he must never let his mask slip, he must be cunning and swift and prove he can rule regardless of his heritage.
“It felt silly to say that he couldn’t bear to lose her. He never had her. She was not a thing to be possessed. But her entrance in his life had conjured light. And losing the light of her would plunge him into a darkness he’d never find his way out of.”
The romance is a slow burn and highly addictive, if this is your type of romance then you will find yourself flying through the pages, highly anticipating the next interaction with a wildly beating heart. Gauri and Vikram have chemistry straight away, Gauri may have tried to kill Vikram in the beginning buy hey that’s just how Gauri is - stab ask questions later. I really don't want to say too much about this book because I feel it's one that the reader should go into slightly blind but I will say it's perfectly paced with lots of mythology and mystery to keep you entertained.
He turned to me, mischief glinting in his eyes.
“How do they celebrate good fortune in Bharata? In Ujijain, we kiss."
“Look elsewhere.”
“Are you sure? You spend an awful amount of time looking at my lips.”
“That’s only because I’m horrified at the sheer idiocy of the words leaping out of them.”
I highly recommend A Crown of Wishes for fantasy fans and for suckers for magical retellings with their own unique twist. Chokshi has such a lyrical way of writing, she has the ability to pull you into the story and allow you to experience everything first hand. I never wanted to leave the magical world with its lush wildlife and vivid scenery. I’m eagerly awaiting the short story Death and Night as I can’t wait to revisit the dazzling world Chokski has created.
Literary-ly Obsessed (Blog)|Twitter|Instagram
April 25, 2017
Torn between 4-4.5*
I really liked this book and the characters. Its really a great second book to a series and did not fall short compared to a lot of series sequels. Chokshi is an author that I can see myself reading all her future work because she writes such entertaining characters and interesting stories.
I really liked this book and the characters. Its really a great second book to a series and did not fall short compared to a lot of series sequels. Chokshi is an author that I can see myself reading all her future work because she writes such entertaining characters and interesting stories.
March 21, 2018
finally a fantasy book with names i can pronounce
April 9, 2017
4 wishes stars
“That’s not true,” he said softly. “Here, I’ll tell it to you. Once there was a beast princess and a fox prince—” “Beast princess? That sounds awful, I—” He shushed me. “—and they had to do all kinds of awful things. Like talk to each other.” I laughed. “And fight through memories that tried to lure them away, poisonous beauties and... fear.” My chest tight ened. “And they did all of this for freedom. One day, even if they couldn’t see it now, it was going to be worth the pain.” We were both quiet. “
An ARC has been kindly provided by St Martin's Press, via NetGalley.com, in exchange for an honest review.
This story reminded me of some Persian tales with flourishes at every turn and lyrical sentences. You’ll get your fill of colors, smells, tastes, magical creatures and fantasy landscapes. It’s a world where rubies fall from snakes mouths where golden apples stick to your hand giving you hunger like you’ve never experienced and beautiful women can kill you with a bare touch.
It tells you the tale of Gauri and Vikram forming an unexpected alliance to enter the Tournament Of Wishes. Both are shunned by their kingdom. Each had their own wants and desires. They’ll have to be courageous facing their worst fears. They will use every intelligence and talent they have in the hope of winning the contest. They will be stripped bare to their soul and of course will come across changed forever.
“Somehow as they’d stumbled together from one near-death incident to the next, he had found a connection.”
I loved so many things in this book.
If the writing was gorgeous I loved the roles reversal above all else!
Usually men are strong because they use brute force. They’re muscled warriors and protect female characters with their fists and weapons. Women are known for using their sharp tongue and wits to win battles.
In A Crown of Wishes Vikram is The Fox Prince and Gauri is The Jewel of Bharata also known as Beastly Girl as Vikram nicknamed her.Mrs Chokshi chose to make Vikram the bearer of sharp tongue.He’ll nearly never carry a knife or a sword as his best weapon is his smart mouth and clever mind.Gauri is the story’s muscles.She has trained for years with soldiers and can wield many weapons, her looks included. The female character protecting the male character thanks to her warrior experience and the male character charming people with his tongue made for a refreshing change!
I also delighted in their banter.Gauri will shoot sharp jabs while Vikram deflects with supreme confidence. So little things unsettled Vikram but Gauri was fierce and passionate.
Just to give you an idea of their power play and banter:
“He moved to stand, and I placed my foot on his chest. “I will not perform for you or anyone. Never ask me to do something like that again.” He stared at me. “Are you done?” “Yes.” “May I get up?” “No.” “I see you like your men with their egos gutted.” “Only when I’m feeling generous.” (…) He tucked his hands behind his head like a pillow before glancing at the ceiling. “Fine. Now can you kindly remove your foot from my chest?”
Now we have a tale filled with trials the tournament’s contestants have to win, role reversal, great banter…What am I forgetting? Oh yes: interesting and entertaining characters!
Let’s begin with Vikram. Ha, Vikram (insert sigh here). He is handsome, smart and cunning. He’s also been hurt deeply. The Council’s lack of faith in its ability to reign and the guilt he bears relating to his mother’s death made him easy to love. He believes in magic, he believes the world is his to take. He’s much more optimist than Gauri. Vikram is their duo’s tranquil force.
Gauri was an incredible heroine but was somewhat harder to love in the beginning as she had erected walls around herself. She tried her best to save her kingdom but when everything you try to help ends hurting people you learn to hold back and trust only yourself.
“Maybe if I had been braver, I would have spoken up. But at what cost? I hadn’t forgotten the serving girl I tried defending. My voice was one of the only things I could control—when to unleash it, when to tamp it down like a burning ember, when to grow it in secret. All my life, control and power had worn the same face. I believed in gods, but the only faith I truly practiced was control. Nothing in excess. Nothing that placed my life in the hands of another.”
Mistrusting everyone, prompt to unleash her temper she was the hot headed one of the story. Fierce, protective, loyal she’ll have to learn to rely on others.
Aasha earned a special place in my heart. She was a side character in this story but what lovely side character! She had such great power and yet did not want to use it and harm others. She did not want to be what she was. If I could use an analogy she would be like a wolf refusing to eat bunnies and choosing to survive on flowers only.
“Aasha flinched any way. She wanted to be like her sisters: content. She wanted, so often, not to feel that she was the only person who desperately wished things were different. But she could not help who she was and she did not want to apologize any longer for her dreams.”
As you can see this book has many assets to seduce and enthrall its reader. So would I recommend this book? A thousand times!
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“That’s not true,” he said softly. “Here, I’ll tell it to you. Once there was a beast princess and a fox prince—” “Beast princess? That sounds awful, I—” He shushed me. “—and they had to do all kinds of awful things. Like talk to each other.” I laughed. “And fight through memories that tried to lure them away, poisonous beauties and... fear.” My chest tight ened. “And they did all of this for freedom. One day, even if they couldn’t see it now, it was going to be worth the pain.” We were both quiet. “
An ARC has been kindly provided by St Martin's Press, via NetGalley.com, in exchange for an honest review.
This story reminded me of some Persian tales with flourishes at every turn and lyrical sentences. You’ll get your fill of colors, smells, tastes, magical creatures and fantasy landscapes. It’s a world where rubies fall from snakes mouths where golden apples stick to your hand giving you hunger like you’ve never experienced and beautiful women can kill you with a bare touch.
It tells you the tale of Gauri and Vikram forming an unexpected alliance to enter the Tournament Of Wishes. Both are shunned by their kingdom. Each had their own wants and desires. They’ll have to be courageous facing their worst fears. They will use every intelligence and talent they have in the hope of winning the contest. They will be stripped bare to their soul and of course will come across changed forever.
“Somehow as they’d stumbled together from one near-death incident to the next, he had found a connection.”
I loved so many things in this book.
If the writing was gorgeous I loved the roles reversal above all else!
Usually men are strong because they use brute force. They’re muscled warriors and protect female characters with their fists and weapons. Women are known for using their sharp tongue and wits to win battles.
In A Crown of Wishes Vikram is The Fox Prince and Gauri is The Jewel of Bharata also known as Beastly Girl as Vikram nicknamed her.Mrs Chokshi chose to make Vikram the bearer of sharp tongue.He’ll nearly never carry a knife or a sword as his best weapon is his smart mouth and clever mind.Gauri is the story’s muscles.She has trained for years with soldiers and can wield many weapons, her looks included. The female character protecting the male character thanks to her warrior experience and the male character charming people with his tongue made for a refreshing change!
I also delighted in their banter.Gauri will shoot sharp jabs while Vikram deflects with supreme confidence. So little things unsettled Vikram but Gauri was fierce and passionate.
Just to give you an idea of their power play and banter:
“He moved to stand, and I placed my foot on his chest. “I will not perform for you or anyone. Never ask me to do something like that again.” He stared at me. “Are you done?” “Yes.” “May I get up?” “No.” “I see you like your men with their egos gutted.” “Only when I’m feeling generous.” (…) He tucked his hands behind his head like a pillow before glancing at the ceiling. “Fine. Now can you kindly remove your foot from my chest?”
Now we have a tale filled with trials the tournament’s contestants have to win, role reversal, great banter…What am I forgetting? Oh yes: interesting and entertaining characters!
Let’s begin with Vikram. Ha, Vikram (insert sigh here). He is handsome, smart and cunning. He’s also been hurt deeply. The Council’s lack of faith in its ability to reign and the guilt he bears relating to his mother’s death made him easy to love. He believes in magic, he believes the world is his to take. He’s much more optimist than Gauri. Vikram is their duo’s tranquil force.
Gauri was an incredible heroine but was somewhat harder to love in the beginning as she had erected walls around herself. She tried her best to save her kingdom but when everything you try to help ends hurting people you learn to hold back and trust only yourself.
“Maybe if I had been braver, I would have spoken up. But at what cost? I hadn’t forgotten the serving girl I tried defending. My voice was one of the only things I could control—when to unleash it, when to tamp it down like a burning ember, when to grow it in secret. All my life, control and power had worn the same face. I believed in gods, but the only faith I truly practiced was control. Nothing in excess. Nothing that placed my life in the hands of another.”
Mistrusting everyone, prompt to unleash her temper she was the hot headed one of the story. Fierce, protective, loyal she’ll have to learn to rely on others.
Aasha earned a special place in my heart. She was a side character in this story but what lovely side character! She had such great power and yet did not want to use it and harm others. She did not want to be what she was. If I could use an analogy she would be like a wolf refusing to eat bunnies and choosing to survive on flowers only.
“Aasha flinched any way. She wanted to be like her sisters: content. She wanted, so often, not to feel that she was the only person who desperately wished things were different. But she could not help who she was and she did not want to apologize any longer for her dreams.”
As you can see this book has many assets to seduce and enthrall its reader. So would I recommend this book? A thousand times!
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December 26, 2017
MAGNIFICENTLY MAGICAL, MAGICAL AND MAGICAL
?
Yes, it is!
Concept:4.75/5.0
Execution:4.5/5.0
Characters Bespoken:4.5/5.0
Cover:5.0/5.0
Overall:4.90 /5.0
The moment I read the nameVikramaditya(**the king whom after the calendar is named – Vikram Samvat), the tales fromBaital PachisiandSinghsan Battisiunfurled, making me crave for rejuvenating their magical worlds once more. This one indeed ended being the combination of these tales but still unique in its very own way.
“Love is like Death without the guarantee of its arrival. Love may not come for you, but when it does it will be just as swift and ruthless as Death and just as blind to your protestations. And just as Death will end one life and leave you with another, so will Love.”-undeniably true, isn’t it?
It does suffice my expectations beyond levels though being the second one in the duology.
Realm Line:
Two opposites, destined to be together for a tournament of wishes, immersed in pristine magical worlds.GauriandVikrammade evident divine and ruthless pair. Their constant mockery is wittily romantic. They even rave on their wedding day! The descriptions are repetitive but so entirely beautiful that your sub-conscious contradicts to miss or skip even a single word. The world created is beyond imaginations.
And then the game begins – the roller coaster of adventures, desires, and dreams. The strongest point of the book – no villains, in particular, all the battles are within the inner demons, choices, and the consequences.
Here’s how you kill: you stay silent, you make bargains that peel layers off your soul one by one, you build a scaffolding of flimsy excuses and live your life on them. I may have killed to save, but I killed the same.
The proses are exceptional honey-layered, daggered echelons, narrated from Gauri’s, Vikram’s and Aasha’s POVs.
Gauri:
One might think one armour was stronger than the other, but a red lip was its own scimitar and a kohl-darkened eye could aim true as a steel-tipped arrow.
She is the infinite wild beauty who knows her weapons for the state of affairs precisely well. Her vital attacks are well prepared and thoughts. But everyone lacks something. Too cheesy to say, but Vikram in the true sense completes her.
Vikram:
“What’s this? Praise from Her Beastliness in the morning? Are you under a curse that makes you friendly before noon? If so, how do we make it permanent?”
Exceptionally sharp, sarcastic, unruly handsome, cunning qualities of him – definitely justifies the title“Fox-King”.He has been my favorite since forever.
“All war is philosophical. That’s why we call it war. Strip it of its paint and it’s nothing more than murder.”
Of course, he is incomplete without his beloved“Vetala”.(**I am fangirling upon a soulless corpse creature with wings, yeah I said it aloud!)
Aasha:
I am much spellbound by the word -Vishakanya(Poison-girl)itself. Her character map is the inevitable attractive feature to the whole story. She is so simple, so spotless, and so straightforward one trapped with destiny.
I am ending it with my most beloved quote from the book:
I never wanted to fall in love. To me, love looked like pale light. Not lustrous enough to illuminate the world or dazzle one’s eyes, but bright enough to fool you into thinking it might.
P.S.: I wish she writes third part in the very series.
Yes, it is!
Concept:4.75/5.0
Execution:4.5/5.0
Characters Bespoken:4.5/5.0
Cover:5.0/5.0
Overall:4.90 /5.0
The moment I read the nameVikramaditya(**the king whom after the calendar is named – Vikram Samvat), the tales fromBaital PachisiandSinghsan Battisiunfurled, making me crave for rejuvenating their magical worlds once more. This one indeed ended being the combination of these tales but still unique in its very own way.
“Love is like Death without the guarantee of its arrival. Love may not come for you, but when it does it will be just as swift and ruthless as Death and just as blind to your protestations. And just as Death will end one life and leave you with another, so will Love.”-undeniably true, isn’t it?
It does suffice my expectations beyond levels though being the second one in the duology.
Realm Line:
Two opposites, destined to be together for a tournament of wishes, immersed in pristine magical worlds.GauriandVikrammade evident divine and ruthless pair. Their constant mockery is wittily romantic. They even rave on their wedding day! The descriptions are repetitive but so entirely beautiful that your sub-conscious contradicts to miss or skip even a single word. The world created is beyond imaginations.
And then the game begins – the roller coaster of adventures, desires, and dreams. The strongest point of the book – no villains, in particular, all the battles are within the inner demons, choices, and the consequences.
Here’s how you kill: you stay silent, you make bargains that peel layers off your soul one by one, you build a scaffolding of flimsy excuses and live your life on them. I may have killed to save, but I killed the same.
The proses are exceptional honey-layered, daggered echelons, narrated from Gauri’s, Vikram’s and Aasha’s POVs.
Gauri:
One might think one armour was stronger than the other, but a red lip was its own scimitar and a kohl-darkened eye could aim true as a steel-tipped arrow.
She is the infinite wild beauty who knows her weapons for the state of affairs precisely well. Her vital attacks are well prepared and thoughts. But everyone lacks something. Too cheesy to say, but Vikram in the true sense completes her.
Vikram:
“What’s this? Praise from Her Beastliness in the morning? Are you under a curse that makes you friendly before noon? If so, how do we make it permanent?”
Exceptionally sharp, sarcastic, unruly handsome, cunning qualities of him – definitely justifies the title“Fox-King”.He has been my favorite since forever.
“All war is philosophical. That’s why we call it war. Strip it of its paint and it’s nothing more than murder.”
Of course, he is incomplete without his beloved“Vetala”.(**I am fangirling upon a soulless corpse creature with wings, yeah I said it aloud!)
Aasha:
I am much spellbound by the word -Vishakanya(Poison-girl)itself. Her character map is the inevitable attractive feature to the whole story. She is so simple, so spotless, and so straightforward one trapped with destiny.
I am ending it with my most beloved quote from the book:
I never wanted to fall in love. To me, love looked like pale light. Not lustrous enough to illuminate the world or dazzle one’s eyes, but bright enough to fool you into thinking it might.
P.S.: I wish she writes third part in the very series.
March 7, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
A Crown of Wishes is just as incredible as I had anticipated. This companion to The Star-Touched Queen tells the story of a tournament to win a wish and focuses on the sister of the protagonist in the first book. As expected, the writing is stunning and filled with sass. Fans of Caraval will undoubtedly love A Crown of Wishes.
When I first heard of this book, I thought it was a sequel to The Star-Touched Queen, but I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that it is actually a companion novel. This story is about Maya’s sister and works as a stand-alone. A Crown of Wishes is all about a magical tournament to win, you guessed it, a wish. It reminded me a bit of Caraval, and I loved that, since this concept is so entertaining to read. The bits of Indian mythology woven throughout the book are also extremely interesting and original. If you loved The Star-Touched Queen, I would definitely suggest giving Gauri’s story a try.
Gauri is such a fierce main character. Right off the bat, she is prepared to outsmart her captors and defend herself. Gauri is so clever and able to solve the riddles in the Tournament of Wishes with ease. I absolutely adored her connection with Vikram as well, since the two have such an adorable love/hate relationship that is hilarious to read.
I will never get tired of Roshani Chokshi’s writing. I already had high hopes considering how beautiful The Star-Touched Queen is, but I can honestly say that her writing has gotten even better. Roshani Chokshi’s style is so descriptive yet so snarky, which can be difficult to pull off. Her use of metaphors also adds to the beauty of the book, making A Crown of Wishes almost impossible to put down. I hope Roshani Chokshi will have more books out in the future, because I would even read her grocery lists.
A Crown of Wishes is the story of a magical tournament that contains such a sarcastic and strong main character. The beautiful writing is the best part, and even better than in The Star-Touched Queen. I absolutely recommend this book, even if you have yet to read the first!
A Crown of Wishes is just as incredible as I had anticipated. This companion to The Star-Touched Queen tells the story of a tournament to win a wish and focuses on the sister of the protagonist in the first book. As expected, the writing is stunning and filled with sass. Fans of Caraval will undoubtedly love A Crown of Wishes.
When I first heard of this book, I thought it was a sequel to The Star-Touched Queen, but I was pleasantly surprised when I realized that it is actually a companion novel. This story is about Maya’s sister and works as a stand-alone. A Crown of Wishes is all about a magical tournament to win, you guessed it, a wish. It reminded me a bit of Caraval, and I loved that, since this concept is so entertaining to read. The bits of Indian mythology woven throughout the book are also extremely interesting and original. If you loved The Star-Touched Queen, I would definitely suggest giving Gauri’s story a try.
Gauri is such a fierce main character. Right off the bat, she is prepared to outsmart her captors and defend herself. Gauri is so clever and able to solve the riddles in the Tournament of Wishes with ease. I absolutely adored her connection with Vikram as well, since the two have such an adorable love/hate relationship that is hilarious to read.
I will never get tired of Roshani Chokshi’s writing. I already had high hopes considering how beautiful The Star-Touched Queen is, but I can honestly say that her writing has gotten even better. Roshani Chokshi’s style is so descriptive yet so snarky, which can be difficult to pull off. Her use of metaphors also adds to the beauty of the book, making A Crown of Wishes almost impossible to put down. I hope Roshani Chokshi will have more books out in the future, because I would even read her grocery lists.
A Crown of Wishes is the story of a magical tournament that contains such a sarcastic and strong main character. The beautiful writing is the best part, and even better than in The Star-Touched Queen. I absolutely recommend this book, even if you have yet to read the first!
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