I’ve read countless romance novels, with tons of different tropes, but very few have met the level in which I loved reading The Wrath and the Dawn, by Renee Adieh. This book features rich fantasy elements and explores aspects of both angst and romance between the female protagonist Shahrzad, a previously normal girl appointed to the title of queen , and Khalid, the murderous and mysterious King of Kings. Taking place in the ancient city of Khorasan, which is now more commonly known to be parts of northern Afghanistan, southern Turkmenistan, and northeastern Iran, this story beautifully encompasses the development of a tragic and forbidden love in the royal walls of the ancient middle eastern city, with twists of magic and betrayal along their journey.

After finishing the novel, I can confidently say that The Wrath and the Dawn is one of my favorite romance novels. I was given the task to read this book for my English class, though I found it was much less an assignment but rather an extremely enjoyable pastime. From the very beginning of the book, Adieh’s writing and plot was so compelling that it felt impossible to put the book down. Adieh perfectly captures the imagery and culture of ancient Khorasan with her descriptive language and alluring analogies. 

The trope, as mentioned previously, explores forbidden love. The Caliph of Khorasan, or Khalid Ibn al-Rashid, has an infamous history of murdering his many past wives the dawn after their marriage. Shahrzad, the daughter of a librarian in Rey, volunteers herself to be the wife of the Caliph in an attempt to avenge the countless girls whose lives were lost at the hands of the heartless “monster” Khalid . But more tragically, the Caliph was also responsible for the murder of her best friend, Shiva. 

Despite his murderous past, Shahrzad survives the first night, and finds herself shamefully falling for Khalid. What will come of their love when all of his truths are revealed and Tariq, the former love interest of Shahrzad and cousin of Shiva, is exposed to her betrayal?

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is an avid romance enthusiast like me. I guarantee it will satisfy your expectations. I also recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a compelling storyline, even if romance isn’t your favorite. Beyond just romance, this novel’s complex plot will fulfill any reader who enjoys a good read.