For She is Wrath by Emily Varga really kept me on my toes, especially with that big twist! At first, it totally caught me off guard, but looking back, I could see the breadcrumbs Varga had left along the way—it’s clever storytelling that makes you want to reread just to catch all the clues.

If you're expecting a Count of Monte Cristo revenge plot, this is more of an Arya Stark-inspired tale. The prison escape and assumed identity are there, but it feels different, with a fierce, determined protagonist who's driven by her own blend of revenge and girl power. The story doesn’t get too bogged down in revenge, though; there's this strong undercurrent of reclaiming power and identity.

One of the highlights for me was the vivid Pakistani influence woven into the food, clothing, and cultural references. It made the setting come alive, creating this rich, colorful backdrop that felt so immersive.

The pacing, though, was a little off. Some scenes felt drawn out, while others could have used a bit more depth. I think it’s because there’s so much story packed into a single book. Honestly, this world and these characters are intriguing enough that it could’ve been a duology—maybe I just want more time with them! A few characters especially could’ve benefited from a little extra development.

The structure of the book, with time jumps between past and present, was something I enjoyed. The parallel timelines flowed well, adding depth to the main character’s journey and giving you insight into her motives as they unfolded.

And if you go the audiobook route, the narrator did a fantastic job! Their voice really brought the story to life, especially during those intense moments in the final third of the book. I didn’t expect the story to go in that direction, but it was a cool surprise, and I liked where it ended up.

Overall, For She is Wrath is packed with twists, a powerful lead, and an engaging cultural backdrop. It might have been better with a bit more room to breathe, but it’s definitely a memorable read.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a free e-ARC of For She is Wrath in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.