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As a science fantasy novel, Mirage had heavily emphasized fantasy elements set against a science fiction backdrop. The world of Mirage was built and developed phenomenally. The incredibly rich cultures, well-established history, and endlessly fascinating religions — all perfection.
Generally, I liked all the character relationships in the story; however, personally, the romantic development between Amani and Maram’s fiancé Idris was the hugest letdown of the entire book. I really was not sold at all because they blatantly lacked chemistry and just fell pretty flat. Plus, I can’t help but feel that Idris and Amani are better off as friends and confidants instead of lovers.
On the other hand, I was totally hoping and praying for Amani and Maram to finally realize that they’d be absolutely perfect for each other! This could have been the sci-fi enemies-to-lovers Sapphic romance we deserve!!! I AM ONE HELL OF A FRUSTRATED AMANI x MARAM SHIPPER, PEOPLE. I usually respect other people’s opinions, but I will immediately scoff at anyone who dares to look me in the eye and say that Amani and Idris are the better pairing compared to my Sapphic sweethearts, Amani and Maram. Idris is a temporary flame, but Amani x Maram is the one true endgame – fight me.
Another weak point of Mirage was definitely its very slow pacing that made it challenging for me to remain totally, consistently engaged. As I mentioned earlier, the story was very character-driven, which meant that not much transpired in terms of plot. Sluggish pacing + lacking plot = occasionally waning interest.
I really loved how, at its heart, Mirage is a hauntingly realistic, painfully true story about life under colonization. Throughout the story, we are shown the brutal aftermath of Vathek’s colonization and its continued effects on the Andalaan people. From living as second-class citizens in a world that used to be yours to being victims of cultural erasure, there were definitely a lot of parallels to our real world events and history.
Additionally, I loved the refreshingly honest perspective this story took. Instead of a plot where the colonizer eventually develops empathy towards the oppressed, I was shown how, at its crux, Princess Maram was simply a young girl caught in the mess of things and torn between two clashing identities that have both rejected her for different reasons. Towards the end of the story, not only did I empathize with her but also, I grew to become really fond of Maram’s character.
Evocative, atmospheric and utterly spellbinding, Mirage is a culturally infused, socially relevant science fantasy novel teeming with colorful mythology and dark, gritty truths. I look forward to the sequel, and I am definitely crossing my fingers for more lovable Amani and Maram moments!
Disclosure: I received a digital ARC of Mirage from the publisher (via NetGalley) as part of my participation in a blog tour hosted by Aimee, Always. This affects neither my opinion nor the content of this review. Many thanks to the publishers and Aimee for the opportunity!
Actual rating: 4 stars
* Read the rest of the review in my natural habitat!
Generally, I liked all the character relationships in the story; however, personally, the romantic development between Amani and Maram’s fiancé Idris was the hugest letdown of the entire book. I really was not sold at all because they blatantly lacked chemistry and just fell pretty flat. Plus, I can’t help but feel that Idris and Amani are better off as friends and confidants instead of lovers.
On the other hand, I was totally hoping and praying for Amani and Maram to finally realize that they’d be absolutely perfect for each other! This could have been the sci-fi enemies-to-lovers Sapphic romance we deserve!!! I AM ONE HELL OF A FRUSTRATED AMANI x MARAM SHIPPER, PEOPLE. I usually respect other people’s opinions, but I will immediately scoff at anyone who dares to look me in the eye and say that Amani and Idris are the better pairing compared to my Sapphic sweethearts, Amani and Maram. Idris is a temporary flame, but Amani x Maram is the one true endgame – fight me.
Another weak point of Mirage was definitely its very slow pacing that made it challenging for me to remain totally, consistently engaged. As I mentioned earlier, the story was very character-driven, which meant that not much transpired in terms of plot. Sluggish pacing + lacking plot = occasionally waning interest.
I really loved how, at its heart, Mirage is a hauntingly realistic, painfully true story about life under colonization. Throughout the story, we are shown the brutal aftermath of Vathek’s colonization and its continued effects on the Andalaan people. From living as second-class citizens in a world that used to be yours to being victims of cultural erasure, there were definitely a lot of parallels to our real world events and history.
Additionally, I loved the refreshingly honest perspective this story took. Instead of a plot where the colonizer eventually develops empathy towards the oppressed, I was shown how, at its crux, Princess Maram was simply a young girl caught in the mess of things and torn between two clashing identities that have both rejected her for different reasons. Towards the end of the story, not only did I empathize with her but also, I grew to become really fond of Maram’s character.
Evocative, atmospheric and utterly spellbinding, Mirage is a culturally infused, socially relevant science fantasy novel teeming with colorful mythology and dark, gritty truths. I look forward to the sequel, and I am definitely crossing my fingers for more lovable Amani and Maram moments!
Disclosure: I received a digital ARC of Mirage from the publisher (via NetGalley) as part of my participation in a blog tour hosted by Aimee, Always. This affects neither my opinion nor the content of this review. Many thanks to the publishers and Aimee for the opportunity!
Actual rating: 4 stars
* Read the rest of the review in my natural habitat!