*I received an ARC on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Title: Sisters of the Snake
Authors: Sasha and Sarena Nanua
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: June 15, 2021
ISBN: 9780062985590
Synopsis from Goodreads:
Princess Rani longs for a chance to escape her gilded cage and prove herself. Ria is a street urchin, stealing just to keep herself alive. When these two lives collide, everything turns on its head: because Ria and Rani, orphan and royal, are unmistakably identical. A deal is struck to switch places—but danger lurks in both worlds, and to save their home, thief and princess must work together. Or watch it all fall into ruin.
I wanted to love this novel. I truly, truly did. What did I like about it? Well, first off, great Indian-inspired story with a diverse cast of characters. This is a huge win and a really unique perspective. It’s written by twin sisters which really gives the twins in the book their very own distinct voices. Plus there’s tons of delicious food throughout. Your mouth will be watering all the way along. There really is a lot going for this book.
Why didn’t I like it? I hate to say it, but I just didn’t think the writing was all that good. All the respect in the world for anyone who sits down to write a book–I’m a writer myself so I understand how difficult it is. But I really think this book needed more time to bake before it was pulled out of the oven. A stronger edit, or more time revising the writing…something…It felt unfinished, or missing some oomph. I couldn’t get into the story and it took my way too long to read. It just didn’t hold my attention. I would read a chapter, then put it down. Then pick it up the next day and repeat. Maybe the writing just wasn’t for me. It unfortunately felt very lacking to me.
Still, it’s getting some good reviews, so anyone who’s looking for the next magical YA featuring some kickass Indian princesses, this is the one for you.
Happy reading!
