This book told me exactly how it would end in the first chapter, and yet I was still surprised by the ending (and emotionally wounded...I need the sequel immediately).

Vultures in the House of Silence is a fantasy that subverts the Chosen One trope and mixes a fun cast of characters with a fast-paced adventure. Firstly, I'd like to note that the storytelling narrative form is slowly becoming a favorite of mine. Similar to in The Ruin of Kings and The First Binding, the book is narrated by Khurafa retelling his story, and the reader knows where his adventure will end.
Speaking of adventure, I always forget how enjoyable classic adventure stories can be. Khurafa has a prophetic vision of the end of the world (which reminded me a bit of There Will Come a Darkness) and sets off to save the world with his mentor, Shaykh Nariman, and his new mind-reading friend, Zakiyya. It was extremely fast-paced and there were plenty of plot twists. I probably could have read it in one sitting if I tried to. And even though the ending is revealed in the first chapter, it still hurt me and I'm still upset.
I also absolutely adored the dynamics of the crew. I don't know how old Khurafa and Zakiyya are, but they bicker like siblings and I love it. Khurafa is also stupid enough that he continuously gets himself into trouble and Zakiyya rescues him every time. Shaykh Nariman is the embodiment of the "Would you love me if I was a worm" meme, and I love Kedi too because cats always give books bonus points. I didn't love Shahid, but I didn't hate him.
I don't know when the sequel is coming out, but I will read it immediately because you can't just leave me like that! If you're a fan of banter, adventure, and fantasy books that play with unusual tropes and narratives, Vultures in the House of Silence is a book you won't want to miss.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4.5/5