Book Review: “The Forbidden Wish” By Jessica Khoury

“The Forbidden Wish” By Jessica Khoury (2016)

Genre: Fiction, Fantasy, YA, Retelling

Page Length: 352 pages (hardcover edition)

Synopsis:

When Aladdin discovers Zahra’s jinni lamp, Zahra is thrust back into a world she hasn’t seen in hundreds of years—a world where magic is forbidden and Zahra’s very existence is illegal. She must disguise herself to stay alive, using ancient shape-shifting magic, until her new master has selected his three wishes. 

But when the King of the Jinn offers Zahra a chance to be free of her lamp forever, she seizes the opportunity—only to discover she is falling in love with Aladdin. When saving herself means betraying him, Zahra must decide once and for all: is winning her freedom worth losing her heart?

As time unravels and her enemies close in, Zahra finds herself suspended between danger and desire in this dazzling retelling of Aladdin from acclaimed author Jessica Khoury.

Review:

I love to read retellings so The Forbidden Wish was a great find on my own bookshelves. I felt that this retelling of Aladdin was enthralling and also felt fresh. Readers follow Aladdin as he discovers Zahra’s jinni lamp and goes on a journey of magic, romance, and adventure. Khoury has a way of mixing familiar elements of the story while adding many new and unique elements. It’s definitely the first Aladdin retelling where the Genie gets to tell their story.

Readers are transported to a faraway world full of danger and excitement. I felt there was never a dull moment and I like that constant aura of suspense that keeps you on your toes. Every single twist and turn brought new excitement to the narrative and I had a hard time putting the novel down. The romance is swoon-worthy and has a deep intensity of fated lovers as danger constantly lurks under Zahra’s and Aladdin’s heads. I felt it was natural in the way their relationship progressed which kept my interest.

The inclusion of some new characters among familiar faces strengthened the reading experience for me along with the rich mythology laced within the plot. A highly recommended read for those that love retellings.

Final Verdict: