Read full review here.(7/24/2020)
The emotional ups and downs, and the intricacies of families and just what mothers will do for their children, made this book a beautiful experience.  
This book was slow to start, and initially, felt like it was peaking too soon. I had my concerns, as I was worried we would peak and then remain stagnant for the rest of the book. I also was concerned about the love interests in this book and the paths they would take- because I've had my heart broken before by queerbaiting and I was so afraid this was that (spoiler:

Spoiler

It's not. Hetbaiting though, that is a trope I can get behind

). Additionally, the relationship with the brother felt detached. While I don’t think this is incredibly important to the story, and I understand they were separated, the relationship still felt odd.
After the 40% mark, the story becomes an entire tale about Soraya and finding strength in herself. Curse or no curse, recognizing the power that she has. The author's note was also interesting to hear about, as it explains the Persian folklore pieces of the story are taken from.
Thank you to Macmillan and Netgalley for this book in its audiobook form. The narration was well done, and the pacing of the story prevented listening to it from getting boring. As I’ve said in previous reviews from Netgalley’s new audiobook capability, I wish they would update it as the playback is a little painful to hear.