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The Daevabad Trilogy #3.5
The River of Silver: Tales from the Daevabad Trilogy
Bestselling author Shannon Chakraborty expands the acclaimed, Hugo-nominated Daevabad Trilogy with this magical compilation of stories from before, during, and after the events of the series.
Told from the perspective of characters beloved and hated, and even those never heard from until now, these tales of Daevabad enrich a world already teeming with magic and wonder.
A prospective new queen joins a court whose lethal history may overwhelm her own political savvy…
An imprisoned royal from a fallen dynasty and a young woman wrenched from her home cross paths in an enchanted garden …
A pair of scouts in a cursed winter wood stumble upon a secret that will turn over their world …
Told from the perspective of characters beloved and hated, and even those never heard from until now, these tales of Daevabad enrich a world already teeming with magic and wonder.
A prospective new queen joins a court whose lethal history may overwhelm her own political savvy…
An imprisoned royal from a fallen dynasty and a young woman wrenched from her home cross paths in an enchanted garden …
A pair of scouts in a cursed winter wood stumble upon a secret that will turn over their world …
228 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2022
712 people are currently reading
25719 people want to read
About the author
S.A. Chakraborty
10 books14.1k followersS. A. Chakraborty is the author of the critically acclaimed and internationally best-selling The Daevabad Trilogy. Her work has been nominated for the Locus, World Fantasy, Crawford, and Astounding awards. When not buried in books about thirteen-century con artists and Abbasid political intrigue, she enjoys hiking, knitting, and re-creating unnecessarily complicated medieval meals. You can find her online at www.sachakraborty.com or on Twitter and Instagram at @SAChakrabooks, where she likes to talk about history, politics, and Islamic art. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, daughter, and an ever-increasing number of cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,037 reviews
April 21, 2022
reading these short stories and deleted scenes is making me want to reread the entire series. its so unbelievably good to be back in the world of daevabad again.
i do wish these little intallments had been released as novellas alongside the main books - i think it would have had more of an impact in terms of plot. because i already know how the series plays out, the brief reveals dont really do much for me.
but as far as the characters go, these short check-ins and additional moments make my heart so happy. honestly, these characters are some of the most well-written, most developed individuals i have ever read. i have such a fondness for all of them and it truly was a delight to read about them again.
so lucky for you readers who havent read this series yet because you now have a companion book to give you supplemental insight along the way! im jealous!
thank you so much, harper voyager, for the ARC!
↠ 4.5 stars
i do wish these little intallments had been released as novellas alongside the main books - i think it would have had more of an impact in terms of plot. because i already know how the series plays out, the brief reveals dont really do much for me.
but as far as the characters go, these short check-ins and additional moments make my heart so happy. honestly, these characters are some of the most well-written, most developed individuals i have ever read. i have such a fondness for all of them and it truly was a delight to read about them again.
so lucky for you readers who havent read this series yet because you now have a companion book to give you supplemental insight along the way! im jealous!
thank you so much, harper voyager, for the ARC!
↠ 4.5 stars
December 22, 2023
nahri and ali invented slow burn
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
June 25, 2022What is this new trend where audiobooks are published months before the physical/ebook copy and how do we stop it
July 19, 2022
We are BACK in Daevabad and personally I could not be more excited! Just a heads up to anyone who’s unaware—The River of Silver is a supplementary collection of cut chapters and short stories set in the world of the Daevabad trilogy, so if you have not read that yet then this will not be the place to start! That would be The City of Brass, and I cannot recommend the series enough.
For any longstanding and die-hard fans, this book has been a long time coming. We’ve been begging for (& sometimes even receiving) bonus material from the series, especially for beloved supporting characters like Muntadhir and Zaynab. So I’m happy to report that it’s a well-rounded selection, beautifully consistent with the rest of the books.
The author begins by giving some background on her journey writing this series, as well as why she ended up returning to Daevabad after finishing the initial trilogy. She describes trying to fit what she believed to be the ‘requirements’ of ‘epic fantasy’, before readjusting to focus on the journey of Nahri, Ali and Dara. I also appreciated Chakraborty’s candor in acknowledging her writing struggles during the start of the pandemic. This eventually led to her writing this book, so obviously I’m not mad at the result, but I’m sure it was frustrating wanting to begin a new project but only being able to return to your previous work.
There are 15 stories in this collection, including an alternate epilogue. Even breaking down the character who’s perspective we follow for each chapter could be spoiler-adjacent, so instead I’ll simply assure you that every person you want to hear from is represented. There’s five chapters set before the events of the trilogy, eight during those books, the alternate epilogue and one final scene that takes place after the events of the trilogy. Of course, we get more from the points of view for Nahri, Ali and Dara, but also scenes from Zaynab, Jamshid, Muntadhir and a handful of parents. Additionally, there’s a couple of characters we get to hear from for the first time.
I’m so pumped that they’re releasing The River of Silver a physical format as well—especially for us shelf-completionists! The US hardcover is currently scheduled to be released on October 11th of this year. But if in the mean time you’re unsure whether to try the audio, I can definitely recommend it! This book has the same narrator as the last three, Soneela Nankani, and she does an impeccable job. The River of Silver was a comforting final goodbye to beloved characters we couldn’t quite let go of during the early aughts of an uncertain period of time. And now that it’s out in the world, fans of S.A. Chakraborty’s have something new to look forward to: The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi.
*Thanks to Harper Audio for the advanced listening copy and Harper Voyager for the advance review copy!
**For more book talk & reviews, follow me on Instagram at @elle_mentbooks!
For any longstanding and die-hard fans, this book has been a long time coming. We’ve been begging for (& sometimes even receiving) bonus material from the series, especially for beloved supporting characters like Muntadhir and Zaynab. So I’m happy to report that it’s a well-rounded selection, beautifully consistent with the rest of the books.
The author begins by giving some background on her journey writing this series, as well as why she ended up returning to Daevabad after finishing the initial trilogy. She describes trying to fit what she believed to be the ‘requirements’ of ‘epic fantasy’, before readjusting to focus on the journey of Nahri, Ali and Dara. I also appreciated Chakraborty’s candor in acknowledging her writing struggles during the start of the pandemic. This eventually led to her writing this book, so obviously I’m not mad at the result, but I’m sure it was frustrating wanting to begin a new project but only being able to return to your previous work.
There are 15 stories in this collection, including an alternate epilogue. Even breaking down the character who’s perspective we follow for each chapter could be spoiler-adjacent, so instead I’ll simply assure you that every person you want to hear from is represented. There’s five chapters set before the events of the trilogy, eight during those books, the alternate epilogue and one final scene that takes place after the events of the trilogy. Of course, we get more from the points of view for Nahri, Ali and Dara, but also scenes from Zaynab, Jamshid, Muntadhir and a handful of parents. Additionally, there’s a couple of characters we get to hear from for the first time.
I’m so pumped that they’re releasing The River of Silver a physical format as well—especially for us shelf-completionists! The US hardcover is currently scheduled to be released on October 11th of this year. But if in the mean time you’re unsure whether to try the audio, I can definitely recommend it! This book has the same narrator as the last three, Soneela Nankani, and she does an impeccable job. The River of Silver was a comforting final goodbye to beloved characters we couldn’t quite let go of during the early aughts of an uncertain period of time. And now that it’s out in the world, fans of S.A. Chakraborty’s have something new to look forward to: The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi.
*Thanks to Harper Audio for the advanced listening copy and Harper Voyager for the advance review copy!
**For more book talk & reviews, follow me on Instagram at @elle_mentbooks!
July 4, 2023
Loved being back in Daveabad! These stories were wonderful, they add loads to the original trilogy.
My favourites were definitely Muntadhir and Jamshid - loved those extra scenes.
It was wonderful to read the alternative epilogues and parts that didn’t make it into the books, I really loved every story in this selection.
**********************
Library copy available for pick up
Really excited to get back to this world!!
My favourites were definitely Muntadhir and Jamshid - loved those extra scenes.
It was wonderful to read the alternative epilogues and parts that didn’t make it into the books, I really loved every story in this selection.
**********************
Library copy available for pick up
Really excited to get back to this world!!
February 25, 2023
Welcome to Daevabad. May your light shine upon my home and your ease be found in its walls.”
my first 5 star of the year ! but lets be real I already saw it coming
RTC soon!
------------------------------
"And I hope u enjoyed this expanded farewell to Nahri , Ali ,Dara and the rest of the Daevabad crew"
Am I the only one who finds it funny that our beloved Chakraborty really thought this was it ?Jokes on her ,as if I could ever say goodbye to my loves . If you've read the Daevabad trilogy and haven't read this ,are u crazy ??? What are u doing. How dare u show ur face here . Leave and return only once u have rectified ur grave mistake .Ur welcome
Now : did this book satisfy me ? Hahahahah *manical laughing * I could read thousands upon thousands of books revolving around these characters having the barest of exchanges and still be absolutely SMITTEN . My love knows no bounds .So was I satisfied with just this? No.Did I love it tho ? OFCOURSE !!!! Puh lease
Thos book once again brought all the emotions in full force . I had someone tell me I was turning red as i read it in class, then later on they asked why I was sad . My repsonse :THIS BOOOOOOOOOKKKKK !!!!!
They are a collection of short stories from different POVs . You'll find Manizeh ,Duriya, Hatset, Muntadhir , Dara , Ali<3, a scout ,Nahri and Zaynab. I loved that we got to delve into not only the side characters but also the villains .
Manizeh- I didn't expect it but I actually did feel pity for Manizeh .When she talked of how free she wanted Jamshid to be and her hopes for him it really humanised her .I actually felt like crying ,a mothers love is like no other .Then we were shown her fire and hate ,her thoughts over her superiority and the injustice . It was so very Manizeh ?! I mean I still dont like her but see how multi dimensional Chakraborty's writing is ?
Duriya- her and Rustam are the absolute cutest what ?!! I ship so hard and they had me laughing so much . I love both their characters and I wish we had more of em . Ik Chakraborty said she's done with Daevabad but ughhhh I wish she wrote a book on the romantic tragedy of these 2
Hatset - The greatest mother and Queen. Hatset is such a powerful figure and anyone who fails to realize is that is just being silly. This woman loves her people so much that she got married to Ghassan OF HER OWN CHOICE . Not only that even when shit went south she managed to keep her land prospering .Her treatment towards others is still considerate and warm while maintaining elegance and standards .She has mastered balance. Respect for the woman .I did want more of her so yayy .
We got some of Ghassan from Hatsets pov. It was actually so sweet of him to try and make her feel at home and even more so , show it to her after she agreed to be his wife so it wasn't like a bribe or pressure .Humanising the villains once again while still not covering up their flaws that make you boil
Muntadhir His POV kind of answers why he turned out the way he did . With no mother and only his cruel father to bring him up its no wonder .Even his siblings were younger than him . We get to see him meet Jamshid too ! See a lil bit how the friendship blossomed and in turn the relationship /attraction .Muntadhir singled out Kaveh's unloyalty from the very beginning.Turns out Jamshid and Muntadhir's love was even more forbidden than I once thought.
Plzzzzz the sibling dynamic is the absolute cutest and funniest .Its so real too . I loved seeing more of Muntadhir ,Zaynab and Ali together . They really care for each other . Oh and the nicknamessszz❤
Muntadhir POV 2- I swear to god I live for his ruthless Nahri taunts and teases
"Muntadhir",Nahri's voice was ice ."As you've said .. I can move mountains now .Don't get on my bad side"
"Nahri don't be ridiculous . All your sides are equally hostile"
DARA- Didn't like his pov when Nahri was there 😂 that's granted tho and expected . It bothered me so much when he called her beautiful and all that but this scene was funny ironic and dark :
Dara pov 2 Here I gained hope for him . He displays shame and embarrassment when at the pub proving that he's changed and feels remorse over his actions .I hope he gets redemption and eventually is happy. Yes that's coming from someone who could not stand him for a good portion of the books lol. Also him ganging up with Aqisa and Zaynab sounds so exciting !! A turn of intriguing events .Even the dynamic would be funny
Oh and this gem of a line Aqisa threw out :
Bwahahhahaggahahgahhahhahahahha . Aqisa knows what's upppppp. Lmfao🤣🤣
Zaynab - I did want more of her and I got it in the first pov but then I was like eh .Wanted to know the aqisa story too on the second pov tho !
The scout - eh
Jamshid- what's that ? That had nothing to do with Jamshid's POV? Well it was IN IT and I'll take any excuse to showoff my baby zaydi 🥰
I really did like Jamshid in the previous books . This pov didn't rlly show the side I loved much but it did capture his annoyance and anguish at Muntadhir's behaviour . Yup we get to see 'Dhiru' s annoying side once again .
😑
Nahri - I rlly feel Nahri alot more now seeing her POV during the 5 years. She sounds so bitter and hurt and miserable. The situation the two were in is really difficult I imagine.Them arguing can be so funny but it can take a really sad turn as well
I also love how Muntadhir is trying to help her . It seems Nahri can also forget that Muntadhir never wanted this as well ,that he also lost the chance to be with someone he loves .God this rlly pulls at my heart string . It's called talent when Chakraborty makes u cry multiple times in a book over just raw pain of situations and not a single death . She portrays emotions so well .
FINALLY ALIIIIIIIIIIII .MY BABY BOYYYYYY😍- No words are even required just some scenes 🫶
Hahahhaha how Ali is that ? ❤️🥰🫶
I do wish we got to see more of Ali ,Lubayd and Aqisa together . What a grp they are .
Ali/Zaydi<3 POV 2 - In this pov we just get to experience the 2 sweethearts enjoying each others company . That joke will never die and I love it .Their relationship just makes me smile.
Pshhhh plz thats so Ali. I can see how they might balance each other out .While Ali can be so serious Nahri can crack the wildest jokes .While Nahri get so down and hopeless Ali is that hope.This pov made me like Nahri more .
Yeah so the whole book was me going: I love.I love you.I love you.Marry me Ali! everytime he spoke or was mentioned . But what's new ?
Nahri POV 2-
once again StUPID. Give yourself to him you fucking dummy .I would have married him within a snap .Ughhhhh . What I would do to switch places with her for that.
Well , but it's refreshing to see a change in endings .When the couple don't rush into marriage .And you can see that Nahri still has a ways to go before she can trust and live without being in constant fear and flee mode .
My good muslim boy , albi w hayati <<3333. So where do we go from here , right ?
😤 arghhhhhhhhhhhhhh
How can u not fall for this gem of a man?!!!omfg🥹He's so cute and understanding and funny and…. 😓🤧😭 not real .
I forgave Nahri afterwards for this considerate and loving gift that declares her feelings and promises marriage ONE DAY . It's a good hopeful yet realistic kind if ending if iv ever seen one .
Your feelings are clear, my light,” he said in Arabic. “I hope mine are too.”
Fuckkk . Not him pulling out the arabic . Iv gone to cry and thirst after Zaydi . peace out yall or rather Assalamu Aleikum
my first 5 star of the year ! but lets be real I already saw it coming
RTC soon!
------------------------------
"And I hope u enjoyed this expanded farewell to Nahri , Ali ,Dara and the rest of the Daevabad crew"
Am I the only one who finds it funny that our beloved Chakraborty really thought this was it ?Jokes on her ,as if I could ever say goodbye to my loves . If you've read the Daevabad trilogy and haven't read this ,are u crazy ??? What are u doing. How dare u show ur face here . Leave and return only once u have rectified ur grave mistake .Ur welcome
Now : did this book satisfy me ? Hahahahah *manical laughing * I could read thousands upon thousands of books revolving around these characters having the barest of exchanges and still be absolutely SMITTEN . My love knows no bounds .So was I satisfied with just this? No.Did I love it tho ? OFCOURSE !!!! Puh lease
Thos book once again brought all the emotions in full force . I had someone tell me I was turning red as i read it in class, then later on they asked why I was sad . My repsonse :THIS BOOOOOOOOOKKKKK !!!!!
They are a collection of short stories from different POVs . You'll find Manizeh ,Duriya, Hatset, Muntadhir , Dara , Ali<3, a scout ,Nahri and Zaynab. I loved that we got to delve into not only the side characters but also the villains .
"You are going to have so many adventures here .Your baba will get you a pony and teach you how to ride ,and you can explore to your hearts content. I want you to explore, my love ", she whispered."I want you to explore and dream and get lost in a place where no one will watch you . Where no one will cage you"
Where Ghassan will not hurt you ,where he will never ever learn of you
Manizeh- I didn't expect it but I actually did feel pity for Manizeh .When she talked of how free she wanted Jamshid to be and her hopes for him it really humanised her .I actually felt like crying ,a mothers love is like no other .Then we were shown her fire and hate ,her thoughts over her superiority and the injustice . It was so very Manizeh ?! I mean I still dont like her but see how multi dimensional Chakraborty's writing is ?
Duriya- her and Rustam are the absolute cutest what ?!! I ship so hard and they had me laughing so much . I love both their characters and I wish we had more of em . Ik Chakraborty said she's done with Daevabad but ughhhh I wish she wrote a book on the romantic tragedy of these 2
Hatset - The greatest mother and Queen. Hatset is such a powerful figure and anyone who fails to realize is that is just being silly. This woman loves her people so much that she got married to Ghassan OF HER OWN CHOICE . Not only that even when shit went south she managed to keep her land prospering .Her treatment towards others is still considerate and warm while maintaining elegance and standards .She has mastered balance. Respect for the woman .I did want more of her so yayy .
We got some of Ghassan from Hatsets pov. It was actually so sweet of him to try and make her feel at home and even more so , show it to her after she agreed to be his wife so it wasn't like a bribe or pressure .Humanising the villains once again while still not covering up their flaws that make you boil
"You would have been safer at your temple . This place , this Palace, it eats people up from the inside . It takes everything that is kind and gentle in your heart and turns it to stone . And you ...you are good and perfect , and it is going to destroy you"
"What would you like me to talk about? "
"Anything", Muntadhir answered "I just want to hear your voice"
Muntadhir His POV kind of answers why he turned out the way he did . With no mother and only his cruel father to bring him up its no wonder .Even his siblings were younger than him . We get to see him meet Jamshid too ! See a lil bit how the friendship blossomed and in turn the relationship /attraction .Muntadhir singled out Kaveh's unloyalty from the very beginning.Turns out Jamshid and Muntadhir's love was even more forbidden than I once thought.
Plzzzzz the sibling dynamic is the absolute cutest and funniest .Its so real too . I loved seeing more of Muntadhir ,Zaynab and Ali together . They really care for each other . Oh and the nicknamessszz❤
Muntadhir POV 2- I swear to god I live for his ruthless Nahri taunts and teases
...She says it was sweet . That it was the first thing you did when you woke up (held Ali's hand)
"Muntadhir",Nahri's voice was ice ."As you've said .. I can move mountains now .Don't get on my bad side"
"Nahri don't be ridiculous . All your sides are equally hostile"
DARA- Didn't like his pov when Nahri was there 😂 that's granted tho and expected . It bothered me so much when he called her beautiful and all that but this scene was funny ironic and dark :
"Then you have lived a very boring number of centuries whose exact number you still refuse to disclose ,surely you have broken at least one rule in your life . Stayed out past curfew , lied to your mother , slept with the wrong woman …"
I have slaughtered thousands of people like you
"No " ,Dara lied ."Centuries of being dull and law abiding . Just as you say"
Dara pov 2 Here I gained hope for him . He displays shame and embarrassment when at the pub proving that he's changed and feels remorse over his actions .I hope he gets redemption and eventually is happy. Yes that's coming from someone who could not stand him for a good portion of the books lol. Also him ganging up with Aqisa and Zaynab sounds so exciting !! A turn of intriguing events .Even the dynamic would be funny
Oh and this gem of a line Aqisa threw out :
"We are not in Daevabad ,and even if we were I do not take orders form Qahtani's"
"Give it another generation .They'll be Nahid's"
Daryavoush whirled on her."You know what -"
Bwahahhahaggahahgahhahhahahahha . Aqisa knows what's upppppp. Lmfao🤣🤣
Zaynab - I did want more of her and I got it in the first pov but then I was like eh .Wanted to know the aqisa story too on the second pov tho !
The scout - eh
Jamshid watched saying nothing as the emir removed Alizayd's sandals and pulled a light sheet over his body. Alizayd muttered in his sleep ,and Muntadhir pressed a kiss to his forehead ." You're going to be the death of me ,idiot "
Jamshid- what's that ? That had nothing to do with Jamshid's POV? Well it was IN IT and I'll take any excuse to showoff my baby zaydi 🥰
I really did like Jamshid in the previous books . This pov didn't rlly show the side I loved much but it did capture his annoyance and anguish at Muntadhir's behaviour . Yup we get to see 'Dhiru' s annoying side once again .
"So is that it , then ?", Jamshid asked ."I get you in the afternoon, Khanzada in the evening , some starry eyed diplomat tomorrow in the morning...no wonder you stood me up . It must be hard to keep us all in track . You should hire an additional secretary "
"There would be no salary high enough "
😑
" I speak divasti Nahri .You were definitely not objecting to my presence earlier "
There was no fighting the blush now , but Nahri held her ground "Do you want some sort of praise?You've slept with half of Daevabad .I'd hope you have some skill"
"Only you could make that sound like an insult. You're right tho - maybe it would be better not to fall asleep beside you . I'm sure your mother's notes are full of suggestions for Qahtani blood"
"So stop coming!" , she snapped. "Surely you have beds aplenty to occupy you"
He looked taken back ."God Nahri ,it was a joke ."Why must you always be so prickly about everything?"
Nahri - I rlly feel Nahri alot more now seeing her POV during the 5 years. She sounds so bitter and hurt and miserable. The situation the two were in is really difficult I imagine.Them arguing can be so funny but it can take a really sad turn as well
"Then what do you want",Muntadhir implored sounding frustrated . "Talk to me . What will make this easier for you ?"
Nothing will make this easier for me
I also love how Muntadhir is trying to help her . It seems Nahri can also forget that Muntadhir never wanted this as well ,that he also lost the chance to be with someone he loves .God this rlly pulls at my heart string . It's called talent when Chakraborty makes u cry multiple times in a book over just raw pain of situations and not a single death . She portrays emotions so well .
FINALLY ALIIIIIIIIIIII .MY BABY BOYYYYYY😍- No words are even required just some scenes 🫶
" Are you alright ?" He breathed
Abla let out a wail " No ! We were almost killed by a mob of statues !"
"The ruins were fascinating though ,no ? I'v never seen a place like that .I didn't even think creatures like Shardunazatu still existed. Imagine the kinds of things he has seen"
Abla gave him a horrified look "You sound ready to go back and have a conversation with the damned thing"
He dipped his oars into the water ." I don't know …might be interesting to know what else lives below the surface "
Hahahhaha how Ali is that ? ❤️🥰🫶
I do wish we got to see more of Ali ,Lubayd and Aqisa together . What a grp they are .
Lubayd exhaled ." Ali we've known each other some time now .We are friends , yes?"
"Ofcourse . I owe you my life"
"Then as your friends .. can I ask you something?"
Ali nodded , pressing his palms into the soil "certainly "
"What the fuck is wrong with you?"
He glanced back in surprise ."What ?"
Ali Rose to his feet." I can't do that to my family . Im going to ask the governor if we can have some of these seeds"
"I'm not sure that was the seed he was interested in"
"I will stab you with Shardunazatus trident "
Add it to the debt you already owe me
Ali/Zaydi<3 POV 2 - In this pov we just get to experience the 2 sweethearts enjoying each others company . That joke will never die and I love it .Their relationship just makes me smile.
His words hung heavy for a moment .And then Nahri ,in the most deadpan sarcastic tone he'd ever heard ,said " You rlly did go full hearing-voices-and wandering-the-dessert-religious back in Am Gezira , didn't you ?"
"May I speak like that again ? When Nahri nodded ,Ali continued, "You should be proud .This hospital ,bringing in subha and facing down your priests…its incredibly brave . You're doing wonderful things here. Don't let others make you feel small becuase they're struggling to measure up"
Nahri stared at him .He couldn't read the emotion churning in her eyes , but then she exhaled ,like a part of a weight had been lifted
"We overwrought Friday reaches are known for our wisdom . Occasionally. "
Pshhhh plz thats so Ali. I can see how they might balance each other out .While Ali can be so serious Nahri can crack the wildest jokes .While Nahri get so down and hopeless Ali is that hope.This pov made me like Nahri more .
"Yes I remember how eager you were to get your hands on evrything in the library"
"Excuse me , I'm not the one who got blown off a shelf and smashed against a wall for their curiosity"
He flushed remembering their trip to the library catacombs ." It hurt so much",he admitted. "I was trying to act fine and unfazed ,but I was seeing stars the whole time"
Yeah so the whole book was me going: I love.I love you.I love you.Marry me Ali! everytime he spoke or was mentioned . But what's new ?
Or u could let yourself have him .But Nahri knew that Ali didn't want a simple tryst in the water. He wanted more . So much more .And there were times Nahri thought she did too - if fantasising abt having someone to come home to ,someone who would make her bad tea and read books in bed on a lazy day, didn't send her into a spiral envisioning all the dreadful ways she could lose that
Nahri POV 2-
once again StUPID. Give yourself to him you fucking dummy .I would have married him within a snap .Ughhhhh . What I would do to switch places with her for that.
Well , but it's refreshing to see a change in endings .When the couple don't rush into marriage .And you can see that Nahri still has a ways to go before she can trust and live without being in constant fear and flee mode .
But Ali made himself clear back then how he felt about a physical relationship outside marriage and Nahri was trying to respect it . Mostly
My good muslim boy , albi w hayati <<3333. So where do we go from here , right ?
Your dismissal of economics offends me " but Ali had stopped as well "And no, I hope not to delay marriage forever .Its just that right now, I prefer to spend the little free time I have swapping minds with frogs and balancing the books of a very particular Banu Nahida .His voice softened I wouldn't want to lose that"
Tears pricked at her eyes .Maybe he wasn't so oblivious ."And what if the books were really unbalanced?", She whispered." What if they took years to sort out ?"
Ali smiled and Nahri felt herself fall .She wanted to wrap herself in the sweetness of that smile and stay in it forever.
"Im very good at accounting , and I have the patience of a nile lord"
😤 arghhhhhhhhhhhhhh
How can u not fall for this gem of a man?!!!omfg🥹He's so cute and understanding and funny and…. 😓🤧😭 not real .
I forgave Nahri afterwards for this considerate and loving gift that declares her feelings and promises marriage ONE DAY . It's a good hopeful yet realistic kind if ending if iv ever seen one .
Still frowning in confusion, Ali took the bag. It seemed to take an eternity for him to unlace the ties holding it closed, but then he was pulling out the silk-wrapped package that had been nestled inside. He unwound the cloth. He went completely still.
It was a mask, masterfully carved of solid pink salt. It glittered wildly in the sunlight, like a jewel with a thousand facets. A swirling pattern of stars and diamonds, apples and iris blossoms twinkled over the arched cutouts meant for eyes and the graceful slope to accommodate a nose.
Ali’s throat audibly caught. “Is this . . .”
“It’s a marriage mask,”she stammered out. “Or at least—it could be. It won’t burn to ash like the wooden ones, but I figured if you used your marid abilities, you could make it dissolve.”Her face was burning with mortification, but she pressed on. “It didn’t seem fair that you would miss out on such an important Geziri wedding tradition because you gave up your fire magic.”
“You got me a marriage mask,”Ali repeated, sounding shocked. His eyes had locked on the gift. “I . . . did you have someone in mind who would wear it?”
Your feelings are clear, my light,” he said in Arabic. “I hope mine are too.”
Fuckkk . Not him pulling out the arabic . Iv gone to cry and thirst after Zaydi . peace out yall or rather Assalamu Aleikum
Want to read
December 15, 2021December 15th, 2021:
MIRACLE!!! WE'RE GETTING A PHYSICAL COPY!
July 23, 2021:
I need a PHYSICAL copy of this book more than I need air!
PLEASE MAKE IT HAPPEN!
MIRACLE!!! WE'RE GETTING A PHYSICAL COPY!
July 23, 2021:
I need a PHYSICAL copy of this book more than I need air!
PLEASE MAKE IT HAPPEN!
December 24, 2024
"If this was love—choking back your own hurt out of fear of hurting another—it was as awful as it was precious"
This book reminded me why I love reading. It was everything I needed — emotional and nostalgic. THESE CHARACTERS! 😭 I'm going to miss them with my whole heart. The Jamshid and Muntadhir chapters gave me life but simultaneously caused my death. I also have a new understanding of Munizheh and sweet Rustam. I highly recommend this if you've read the Daevabad trilogy as it added so much context and depth to these characters. It also had a satisfying ending, which this trilogy deserved. Brilliantly amazing and memorable ⭐
"Don't let others make you feel small because they're struggling to measure up."
This book reminded me why I love reading. It was everything I needed — emotional and nostalgic. THESE CHARACTERS! 😭 I'm going to miss them with my whole heart. The Jamshid and Muntadhir chapters gave me life but simultaneously caused my death. I also have a new understanding of Munizheh and sweet Rustam. I highly recommend this if you've read the Daevabad trilogy as it added so much context and depth to these characters. It also had a satisfying ending, which this trilogy deserved. Brilliantly amazing and memorable ⭐
"Don't let others make you feel small because they're struggling to measure up."
September 9, 2022
I love this world so much, this was so delightful to go behind the scenes of the first three books and fill in some gaps and then catch up with where they are later on down the road.
March 2, 2022
Rep: West Asian/North African coded cast & setting, bi mc, gay mc, sapphic mc
CWs: past suicide attempts, torture, attempted rape
Galley provided by publisher
The River of Silver is a book I loved listening to and a world I loved returning to. I listened to the entire thing in one day, unwilling to put it down even during work. Most of these stories and scenes were ones I had read as deleted scenes when they were posted online, but there was still something fresh and new about listening to them. It makes me want to go back to the books and listen to them as audiobooks (which, really, is high praise, because if I had to choose audiobook vs physical or ebook, I would go with the latter, since so much about an audiobook’s narrator can make or break a book for me). This audiobook was so well done and I didn’t want it to end.
I also loved that this collection gave us a glimpse further into the world of Daevabad, particularly through different characters’ eyes outside of the POVs in the main trilogy (and without the stress of not knowing what’s going to happen). I think it also added in some points to the trilogy, such as seeing the invasion of Daevabad at the end of The Kingdom of Copper through Zaynab’s eyes, or other events through Jamshid and Muntadhir. I could see why these weren’t added into the trilogy itself, so I really appreciated being able to read them here. (And also, the short epilogues for each of the main characters that were the last three stories in this. Especially the ones for Muntadhir/Jamshid, and Zaynab.)
So I guess now I’m done, all I need to do is fight the urge not to reread the entire trilogy (or relisten to this entire book). Haha, easy right?
(also im a zaynabaqisa truther)
CWs: past suicide attempts, torture, attempted rape
Galley provided by publisher
The River of Silver is a book I loved listening to and a world I loved returning to. I listened to the entire thing in one day, unwilling to put it down even during work. Most of these stories and scenes were ones I had read as deleted scenes when they were posted online, but there was still something fresh and new about listening to them. It makes me want to go back to the books and listen to them as audiobooks (which, really, is high praise, because if I had to choose audiobook vs physical or ebook, I would go with the latter, since so much about an audiobook’s narrator can make or break a book for me). This audiobook was so well done and I didn’t want it to end.
I also loved that this collection gave us a glimpse further into the world of Daevabad, particularly through different characters’ eyes outside of the POVs in the main trilogy (and without the stress of not knowing what’s going to happen). I think it also added in some points to the trilogy, such as seeing the invasion of Daevabad at the end of The Kingdom of Copper through Zaynab’s eyes, or other events through Jamshid and Muntadhir. I could see why these weren’t added into the trilogy itself, so I really appreciated being able to read them here. (And also, the short epilogues for each of the main characters that were the last three stories in this. Especially the ones for Muntadhir/Jamshid, and Zaynab.)
So I guess now I’m done, all I need to do is fight the urge not to reread the entire trilogy (or relisten to this entire book). Haha, easy right?
(also im a zaynabaqisa truther)
May 18, 2025
Reread: 17/05/25
Rating : 5 stars
Ms Chakraborty, even after reading your books twice, I still can't get enough. I need a whole novel about Rostam and Duria, plus A whole novel about Muntadhir and jamshid. Is this a lot to ask??! 😔
⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅
First read: 31/10/22
Rating: 5 stars
I loved this characters so much and this was a lot to take in.🥲 is it too much to ask I want more of Daevabad stories??? Even after getting this book.
even thought this is a short story book collection, It's even better than most books out there. how Ms chakraborty do it I have no idea.
Rating : 5 stars
Ms Chakraborty, even after reading your books twice, I still can't get enough. I need a whole novel about Rostam and Duria, plus A whole novel about Muntadhir and jamshid. Is this a lot to ask??! 😔
⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅
First read: 31/10/22
Rating: 5 stars
Nahri was already rising to her feet. “Stay out of my romantic life,” she hissed in his ear. “And if you hurt my brother, I will drop a mountain on you.” “Yes, Banu Nahida,” Muntadhir said meekly as Jamshid took her place.”
I loved this characters so much and this was a lot to take in.🥲 is it too much to ask I want more of Daevabad stories??? Even after getting this book.
even thought this is a short story book collection, It's even better than most books out there. how Ms chakraborty do it I have no idea.
March 1, 2022
I’d give this a river of stars!
Warning - there will be spoilers for the Daevabad trilogy but not for The River of Silver.
“From the palace walls Hatset could see Daevabad stretched below, the city dazzling in miniature, the tribal boundaries sprawled across it all like a web, ensnaring the lives of tens of thousands.
“It’s breathtaking,” she said.”
S.A. Chakraborty welcomes us back to the magical land of Daevabad in all its beauty, its glory and even its hidden cruelty. The River of Silver is a delightful collection of stories which offer us glimpses into the events from before, during and after The City of Brass, The Kingdom of Copper and The Empire of Gold. Each story is told from the perspective of our beloved, and not so beloved, characters from the stunning Deavabad trilogy. This collection is being released as an audiobook, narrated by Soneela Nankani, but will also be published in physical formats later this year.
I personally have always found audiobooks hard to get into as I tend to lose concentration on them fairly quickly. Yet this was far from the case here as I devoured these stories as quickly as I could. Soneela Nankani offers a fantastic narration and injects so much emotion and nuance into each character’s voice, keeping me engaged throughout. I think it also helped that I already knew and loved this world and the characters and therefore I was more than eager to become immersed into their tales once again. This book also came at a point where I truly needed it, as the real world is falling apart, Chakraborty offered a much needed escape. I sat in my conservatory, a nice warmth coming from the sun at the window, headphones on, eyes closed, I was overjoyed to be transported back to my beloved Daevabad.
At the beginning of each story Chakraborty informs us of the timeline of the scene in relation to the Daevabad trilogy, and warns which book it will contain spoilers for. This was such a thoughtful touch, not only does it provide some context for each story, but for those who may not have finished the trilogy yet, they could easily avoid particular stories until they had.
The first story is a scene with Manizheh set decades before The City of Brass, and I began to see her character in a new light as Chakraborty shows us that right and wrong all depended on your perspective. In The Empire of Gold Manizheh boils with rage and unleashes a torrent of destruction, yes I understood her reasons but nonetheless loathed her actions. Yet in this story we witness Manizheh oppressed, emotionally abused and full of heartache. She is a mother giving up her child, stricken with the loss, and she‘s a sister watching her brother suffer at the cruel hands of the tyrant King Ghassan. Knowing Manizheh’s inner thoughts and feelings at the time of her ordeal certainly made me feel much more sympathy for her.
“Would you add that which I cannot tell you to your prayers?”
Rustam lifted his gaze to her again.
“Everyday, sister.”
This is the beauty of The River of Silver, each story is cleverly curated to give better insight into each character, whether they be side or main characters from the original trilogy. We see intimate, quiet moments where thoughts and feelings are explored in depth, where desires and longings are revealed. Voices are given to those such as Hatset and Zaynab, who previously had not had a PoV. In Zaynab’s story we see her put aside her fears, gather her courage and stand to defend her people. Through Hatset we see a determined new queen, and a more tender Ghassan who gives Hatset a surprisingly thoughtful gift. Each narrative adds even more to this already richly layered world, filling in the gaps or providing more backstory to all that unfolded in Daevabad.
“His closed eyes dimmed further, and Dara glanced up blinking to see Nahri standing before him outlined against the sun. She was dressed in her stolen clothes, beads of water still clinging to her cheeks and glistening in her hair. Suleiman’s Eye, she is beautiful. The sight of her left him feeling breathless, which of course was not possible, as Dara did not breathe.”
Chakraborty writes a mixture of stories which are poignant, heartwarming, heartbreaking and often very amusing. Some of my favourites included Jamshid meeting Mutandhir for the first time, Nahri and Dara at a market whilst travelling on their way to Daevabad, and my two absolute favourites were from the scene where Ali is in exile in Am Gezira and he goes to rescue a young girl: this had such a fairytale-esque atmosphere, and such a humorous ending. Then the last story which revolved around Nahri and Ali, set a year and a half after the events of The Empire of Gold, simply melted by heart. Each story may have separate narratives, but they were all connected by the theme of love in all its forms, ranging from a mother’s love, to romantic love, and sibling love.
As I headed back to a world of Djinn, of elemental magic, of zulfiqar's and luscious gardens, I felt enchanted once again. Chakraborty’s prose is dazzling, she brings these characters and the world of Daevabad to life with beauty and grace. The River of Silver is a must-have for any fan who wants to experience sweet and tender stories from all the charmingly crafted characters whom we already adore.
“I would do anything to be with you, and see you free of your duties and safe from this city’s awful murderous politics. But Jamshid didn’t say that, he already knew the answer. Daevabad came first.”
Audiobook ARC provided by Harper Voyager UK/Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review. All quotes have been transcribed by myself for the purposes of this review, any mistakes are solely my fault.
The River of Silver is out in audiobook today, but you can preorder a hardback/paperback for October.
Warning - there will be spoilers for the Daevabad trilogy but not for The River of Silver.
“From the palace walls Hatset could see Daevabad stretched below, the city dazzling in miniature, the tribal boundaries sprawled across it all like a web, ensnaring the lives of tens of thousands.
“It’s breathtaking,” she said.”
S.A. Chakraborty welcomes us back to the magical land of Daevabad in all its beauty, its glory and even its hidden cruelty. The River of Silver is a delightful collection of stories which offer us glimpses into the events from before, during and after The City of Brass, The Kingdom of Copper and The Empire of Gold. Each story is told from the perspective of our beloved, and not so beloved, characters from the stunning Deavabad trilogy. This collection is being released as an audiobook, narrated by Soneela Nankani, but will also be published in physical formats later this year.
I personally have always found audiobooks hard to get into as I tend to lose concentration on them fairly quickly. Yet this was far from the case here as I devoured these stories as quickly as I could. Soneela Nankani offers a fantastic narration and injects so much emotion and nuance into each character’s voice, keeping me engaged throughout. I think it also helped that I already knew and loved this world and the characters and therefore I was more than eager to become immersed into their tales once again. This book also came at a point where I truly needed it, as the real world is falling apart, Chakraborty offered a much needed escape. I sat in my conservatory, a nice warmth coming from the sun at the window, headphones on, eyes closed, I was overjoyed to be transported back to my beloved Daevabad.
At the beginning of each story Chakraborty informs us of the timeline of the scene in relation to the Daevabad trilogy, and warns which book it will contain spoilers for. This was such a thoughtful touch, not only does it provide some context for each story, but for those who may not have finished the trilogy yet, they could easily avoid particular stories until they had.
The first story is a scene with Manizheh set decades before The City of Brass, and I began to see her character in a new light as Chakraborty shows us that right and wrong all depended on your perspective. In The Empire of Gold Manizheh boils with rage and unleashes a torrent of destruction, yes I understood her reasons but nonetheless loathed her actions. Yet in this story we witness Manizheh oppressed, emotionally abused and full of heartache. She is a mother giving up her child, stricken with the loss, and she‘s a sister watching her brother suffer at the cruel hands of the tyrant King Ghassan. Knowing Manizheh’s inner thoughts and feelings at the time of her ordeal certainly made me feel much more sympathy for her.
“Would you add that which I cannot tell you to your prayers?”
Rustam lifted his gaze to her again.
“Everyday, sister.”
This is the beauty of The River of Silver, each story is cleverly curated to give better insight into each character, whether they be side or main characters from the original trilogy. We see intimate, quiet moments where thoughts and feelings are explored in depth, where desires and longings are revealed. Voices are given to those such as Hatset and Zaynab, who previously had not had a PoV. In Zaynab’s story we see her put aside her fears, gather her courage and stand to defend her people. Through Hatset we see a determined new queen, and a more tender Ghassan who gives Hatset a surprisingly thoughtful gift. Each narrative adds even more to this already richly layered world, filling in the gaps or providing more backstory to all that unfolded in Daevabad.
“His closed eyes dimmed further, and Dara glanced up blinking to see Nahri standing before him outlined against the sun. She was dressed in her stolen clothes, beads of water still clinging to her cheeks and glistening in her hair. Suleiman’s Eye, she is beautiful. The sight of her left him feeling breathless, which of course was not possible, as Dara did not breathe.”
Chakraborty writes a mixture of stories which are poignant, heartwarming, heartbreaking and often very amusing. Some of my favourites included Jamshid meeting Mutandhir for the first time, Nahri and Dara at a market whilst travelling on their way to Daevabad, and my two absolute favourites were from the scene where Ali is in exile in Am Gezira and he goes to rescue a young girl: this had such a fairytale-esque atmosphere, and such a humorous ending. Then the last story which revolved around Nahri and Ali, set a year and a half after the events of The Empire of Gold, simply melted by heart. Each story may have separate narratives, but they were all connected by the theme of love in all its forms, ranging from a mother’s love, to romantic love, and sibling love.
As I headed back to a world of Djinn, of elemental magic, of zulfiqar's and luscious gardens, I felt enchanted once again. Chakraborty’s prose is dazzling, she brings these characters and the world of Daevabad to life with beauty and grace. The River of Silver is a must-have for any fan who wants to experience sweet and tender stories from all the charmingly crafted characters whom we already adore.
“I would do anything to be with you, and see you free of your duties and safe from this city’s awful murderous politics. But Jamshid didn’t say that, he already knew the answer. Daevabad came first.”
Audiobook ARC provided by Harper Voyager UK/Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review. All quotes have been transcribed by myself for the purposes of this review, any mistakes are solely my fault.
The River of Silver is out in audiobook today, but you can preorder a hardback/paperback for October.
May 10, 2024
J’ai adoré me replonger dans l’univers de Daevabad C’est comme si j’étais rentrée à la maison. Je peux sentir le souffle du vent chaud sur ma peau. Ici nous avons des courts récits du point de vue des personnages avant les événements du livre et après. Je les ai tous adoré.
Mes préférés sont ceux de jamshid de la rencontre des parents de nahri mais aussi l’histoire du mariage de hatset avec ghassan mais aussi les deux épilogues.
Je suis fan de l’univers construit par l’autrice. Cet univers change des romans de fantasy habituels qui se passe toujours au moyen âge ici nous découvrons l’exotisme de l’orient et ces différentes croyances. J’attends avec impatience le prochain roman de cet autrice.
Si vous aimez la fantasy n’hésitez pas à découvrir ce court roman attention à avoir lu la trilogie originale avant.
Mes préférés sont ceux de jamshid de la rencontre des parents de nahri mais aussi l’histoire du mariage de hatset avec ghassan mais aussi les deux épilogues.
Je suis fan de l’univers construit par l’autrice. Cet univers change des romans de fantasy habituels qui se passe toujours au moyen âge ici nous découvrons l’exotisme de l’orient et ces différentes croyances. J’attends avec impatience le prochain roman de cet autrice.
Si vous aimez la fantasy n’hésitez pas à découvrir ce court roman attention à avoir lu la trilogie originale avant.
December 4, 2024
oh my heart
September 6, 2022
Okay WOW! I haven't read the other books in this series, but now I just HAVE to. I just finished reading this one and it is AMAZING. I have heard so much hype about this series and never understood it until now. Absolutely amazing book. It's not just one story, it have tons of different stories within it with some great characters in each of them! I love fantasy books, so this was right up my alley! So gripping and love the author's writing style. Absolutely enjoyed it!
I won this ARC from a Goodreads giveaway. I'm so glad I did! All statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I won this ARC from a Goodreads giveaway. I'm so glad I did! All statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
November 8, 2025
The River of Silver is billed as a collection of tales from the Daevabad universe. In reality, these seem more like cut scenes than newly created stories. While a couple of these are decent, suffice it to say that there is a reason these vignettes were cut from the novels.
May 26, 2025
Fan service done right!
از اون جایی که این کتاب یه مجموعه از چپترها ست و نه یه مجموعه داستان کوتاه، بهتره بهش فن سرویس بگم.
هر چپتر نه تنها باعث شد یه بار دیگه با شخصیت هایی که دوستشون داشتم دوباره همپا بشم، بلکه یه لایه دیگه به شخصیت ها و یه عمق بیشتر به جهانِ دیوآباد اضافه کرد و عاملی شد که از خوندنش لذت فراوون ببرم.
و دیگه این یه گیلتی پلژر نبود.
دوست داشتم بیشتر درباره زینب بخونم که متاسفانه اونقدرا بهش پرداخت نشده بود ولی درباره پیشینه علی، نهری و سرنوشت کارکترهای دیگه قصههای جالبی داشت.
از اون جایی که این کتاب یه مجموعه از چپترها ست و نه یه مجموعه داستان کوتاه، بهتره بهش فن سرویس بگم.
هر چپتر نه تنها باعث شد یه بار دیگه با شخصیت هایی که دوستشون داشتم دوباره همپا بشم، بلکه یه لایه دیگه به شخصیت ها و یه عمق بیشتر به جهانِ دیوآباد اضافه کرد و عاملی شد که از خوندنش لذت فراوون ببرم.
و دیگه این یه گیلتی پلژر نبود.
دوست داشتم بیشتر درباره زینب بخونم که متاسفانه اونقدرا بهش پرداخت نشده بود ولی درباره پیشینه علی، نهری و سرنوشت کارکترهای دیگه قصههای جالبی داشت.
June 29, 2022
This work is a collection of short stories that are set in the world of the Daevabad Trilogy. The stories range from years before the first book was set to just after the third book. They offer insight into the “villains” of the trilogy, the main characters, and some important secondary characters.
If you’ve read the Daevabad Trilogy, you MUST read this work. It adds so much depth to the world. The stories added information about secondary characters that were some of my favorites, as well as including some interesting and relevant worldbuilding. Not to mention that the last story was everything that I wanted it to be – what a beautiful way to end this fantasy trilogy.
The author included spoiler warnings at the beginning of each short story, letting the reader know which book(s) the short story contained spoilers for. I think this could be an awesome companion read for someone first reading (or rereading) the trilogy, as you could flip through and use the short stories to supplement the book you just finished.
The characters are still well developed and relatable, and these short stories give them even more depth. There were no errors in the work even though it’s just a draft. In short, there’s nothing that I disliked about this read.
It was a joy to come back to this world and gain insight into these characters and many of the events of the original trilogy. I highly recommend this work to anyone who has read the Daevabad trilogy. And if you haven’t read the trilogy, what are you waiting for?
I received a complimentary copy of this work through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
If you’ve read the Daevabad Trilogy, you MUST read this work. It adds so much depth to the world. The stories added information about secondary characters that were some of my favorites, as well as including some interesting and relevant worldbuilding. Not to mention that the last story was everything that I wanted it to be – what a beautiful way to end this fantasy trilogy.
The author included spoiler warnings at the beginning of each short story, letting the reader know which book(s) the short story contained spoilers for. I think this could be an awesome companion read for someone first reading (or rereading) the trilogy, as you could flip through and use the short stories to supplement the book you just finished.
The characters are still well developed and relatable, and these short stories give them even more depth. There were no errors in the work even though it’s just a draft. In short, there’s nothing that I disliked about this read.
It was a joy to come back to this world and gain insight into these characters and many of the events of the original trilogy. I highly recommend this work to anyone who has read the Daevabad trilogy. And if you haven’t read the trilogy, what are you waiting for?
I received a complimentary copy of this work through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 15, 2025
Only for die-hard fans who have read the Daevabad trilogy recently, these additional scenes are not independent stories and often do not make much sense unless you remember the plot of the trilogy very well. A few are interesting, such as the scene where Nahri's parents meet or one of Ali's underwater adventures. However, most feel like unnecessary "deleted scenes" that were wisely left out of the novels.
December 9, 2022
The only reason why this isn't one star is because I love the Duriya/Rustam story (and the molokhiya representation for us Egyptians!! iykyk) and I *mostly* love the Ali/Nahri stories. I also like Hatset, she's a pretty cool (albeit scary) queen.
But really, this decreased my love for Daevabad.
As a Muslim, I was offended when, in Empire of Gold, the strong, religious Alizayd al-Qahtani achieved "character growth" by compromising his religion for the sake of not judging his brother--for saying he thought it was a good thing that his brother was living with his male homosexual partner.
And I am even more offended now, by the stories in this anthology, that turned not just one but TWO Muslim characters who were originally not lesbian at all in the original trilogy into lesbians with a relationship with each other. What's ironic is that they are both devout Muslims who pray and dress modestly and avoid alcohol, yet they don't see that homosexual acts are sinful in Islam. They don't see any contradiction whatsoever. This is disrespectful to Islam and the idea of strong Muslim characters who stay true to the values of their faith--an idea that I believed was embodied by Alizayd al-Qahtani, but which I feel the author has undermined.
I am more upset by Zaynab's character than I am by Dhiru's, since Dhiru isn't religious to begin with (he drinks and parties and has always slept around with both men and women). So by making him have a homosexual relationship, the author was not making any argument for what Islamic values or practicing Muslims should look like. But by making Ali be okay with that, and by making Zaynab have such a relationship herself, the author uses two religious characters to argue that Muslims should compromise Islamic values, that they shouldn't be judgmental against LGBT people--in fact, they should support them with continuing to sin, and who knows, maybe it's not even a sin at all since Ali and Zaynab are both suddenly okay with it.
Also, reading the Ali/Nahri scenes, I was surprised by how much physical touch there is between them. I suppose it's not much more than was in the original trilogy, but perhaps when I first read the trilogy, it was the first time I read an adult genre book with decent Muslim representation that I didn't mind that Ali and Nahri touched more than non-married Muslims should. But since then I have read incredible Muslim lit in which the characters do NOT compromise their values (see SK Ali, Zoulfa Katouh, etc.!!) so I am less blinded with Ali/Nahri. So I'm gonna say it: it's very contradictory that Ali is so religious and yet he touches Nahri so much. I think if Ali knew it was wrong, he wouldn't even hold her hand. But he does, without regretting it, which contradicts Ali's character, and so there's a huge flaw in his design. MOREOVER, WHY does he have to be "less judgmental" (read: compromise his values) in order to achieve growth, while Nahri does not? Why does Nahri, who's mother was Muslim and who grew up in Egypt, was never religious but then suddenly became more religious--but with her Nahid/Daeva religion and not Islam? And why is Ali okay with marrying her if she's not Muslim? The strong, devout Ali I know would not want his kids to be raised upon any religion other than Islam.
I'm annoyed, yeah, but I'm mostly sad, because younger me had a lot of love and hope in Ali, and I am now disappointed because I don't feel like these stories did his character justice.
Rant over :(
But really, this decreased my love for Daevabad.
As a Muslim, I was offended when, in Empire of Gold, the strong, religious Alizayd al-Qahtani achieved "character growth" by compromising his religion for the sake of not judging his brother--for saying he thought it was a good thing that his brother was living with his male homosexual partner.
And I am even more offended now, by the stories in this anthology, that turned not just one but TWO Muslim characters who were originally not lesbian at all in the original trilogy into lesbians with a relationship with each other. What's ironic is that they are both devout Muslims who pray and dress modestly and avoid alcohol, yet they don't see that homosexual acts are sinful in Islam. They don't see any contradiction whatsoever. This is disrespectful to Islam and the idea of strong Muslim characters who stay true to the values of their faith--an idea that I believed was embodied by Alizayd al-Qahtani, but which I feel the author has undermined.
I am more upset by Zaynab's character than I am by Dhiru's, since Dhiru isn't religious to begin with (he drinks and parties and has always slept around with both men and women). So by making him have a homosexual relationship, the author was not making any argument for what Islamic values or practicing Muslims should look like. But by making Ali be okay with that, and by making Zaynab have such a relationship herself, the author uses two religious characters to argue that Muslims should compromise Islamic values, that they shouldn't be judgmental against LGBT people--in fact, they should support them with continuing to sin, and who knows, maybe it's not even a sin at all since Ali and Zaynab are both suddenly okay with it.
Also, reading the Ali/Nahri scenes, I was surprised by how much physical touch there is between them. I suppose it's not much more than was in the original trilogy, but perhaps when I first read the trilogy, it was the first time I read an adult genre book with decent Muslim representation that I didn't mind that Ali and Nahri touched more than non-married Muslims should. But since then I have read incredible Muslim lit in which the characters do NOT compromise their values (see SK Ali, Zoulfa Katouh, etc.!!) so I am less blinded with Ali/Nahri. So I'm gonna say it: it's very contradictory that Ali is so religious and yet he touches Nahri so much. I think if Ali knew it was wrong, he wouldn't even hold her hand. But he does, without regretting it, which contradicts Ali's character, and so there's a huge flaw in his design. MOREOVER, WHY does he have to be "less judgmental" (read: compromise his values) in order to achieve growth, while Nahri does not? Why does Nahri, who's mother was Muslim and who grew up in Egypt, was never religious but then suddenly became more religious--but with her Nahid/Daeva religion and not Islam? And why is Ali okay with marrying her if she's not Muslim? The strong, devout Ali I know would not want his kids to be raised upon any religion other than Islam.
I'm annoyed, yeah, but I'm mostly sad, because younger me had a lot of love and hope in Ali, and I am now disappointed because I don't feel like these stories did his character justice.
Rant over :(
February 21, 2024
D’habitude je ne trouve pas que les livres « bonus » apportent vraiment quelque chose à la saga principale mais encore une fois la reine Chakraborty me donne tort. C’est la conclusion parfaite de cette saga si chère à mon coeur. J’ai commencé et terminé ma lecture de ce bijou les larmes aux yeux. J’aime tellement cet univers, je suis tellement attachée aux personnages. Je suis triste d’avoir terminé cette saga mais en même temps heureuse d’avoir exploré tous ses secrets. Bref lisez la trilogie Daevabad et lisez Le fleuve d’argent.
August 7, 2022
One would think that I had no more tears left after sobbing at the ending of Empire of Gold. And yet this short story collection made me tear up TWICE. This book is for everyone whose favorite characters were Jamshid and Muntadhir. That would be me. I feel like this was written for me.
None of these stories are necessary to read but they add beautiful depth and context to these characters. In particular, we get important conversations between Muntadhir and Jamshid and between Nahri and Alizayd (spoiler those conversations are the ones that made me tear up). There were two or three stories that felt a bit unnecessary but I still enjoyed S. A. Chakraborty's writing and world building.
Returning to my love of Muntadhir, his character really shined in this book. We get insight into his internal conflict, love for his siblings, and his relationship with Nahri, Jamshid, and his father. The insight we get into his character alone made this book five stars for me.
As much as I loved Dara I am glad that he was not the star of this book. The stories that involve him are short and served their purpose, but I appreciate that other characters took center stage. Nahri also takes more of a background role in this collection. I feel like this was fitting given that she is the main character. She is always relevant and in the background, but this book is devoted to exploring the side characters who did not get as much page time in the main trilogy.
I love that there were notes at the top of each chapter to indicate where the story fit and provide a bit of context for when and why it was written.
Now I just want to reread the trilogy!
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for the e-ARC
None of these stories are necessary to read but they add beautiful depth and context to these characters. In particular, we get important conversations between Muntadhir and Jamshid and between Nahri and Alizayd (spoiler those conversations are the ones that made me tear up). There were two or three stories that felt a bit unnecessary but I still enjoyed S. A. Chakraborty's writing and world building.
Returning to my love of Muntadhir, his character really shined in this book. We get insight into his internal conflict, love for his siblings, and his relationship with Nahri, Jamshid, and his father. The insight we get into his character alone made this book five stars for me.
As much as I loved Dara I am glad that he was not the star of this book. The stories that involve him are short and served their purpose, but I appreciate that other characters took center stage. Nahri also takes more of a background role in this collection. I feel like this was fitting given that she is the main character. She is always relevant and in the background, but this book is devoted to exploring the side characters who did not get as much page time in the main trilogy.
I love that there were notes at the top of each chapter to indicate where the story fit and provide a bit of context for when and why it was written.
Now I just want to reread the trilogy!
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for the e-ARC
October 12, 2023
Overall Rating : A
"'We'll write our story.'
'Do you think it will be a happy one?'
'I do.'"
No, I'm not crying, this is just water coming from....some super concentrated storm right above my eyes. Must be a Marid nearby🥺
"'We'll write our story.'
'Do you think it will be a happy one?'
'I do.'"
No, I'm not crying, this is just water coming from....some super concentrated storm right above my eyes. Must be a Marid nearby🥺
April 4, 2023
S.A. Chakraborty you will always be famous.
December 21, 2022
„The River of Silver: Tales from the Daevabad Trilogy“ е интересна компилация, която проследява персонажи и събития от света на Девабад. Книгата е колкото продължение, толкова и предистория и допълнение към оригиналната трилогия. За самостоятелна книга не става, понеже прескача измежду събитията и персонажите от „Град от месинг“, „Царство от мед“ и „Империя от злато“. Така че първо трябва да се прочетат първите три книги и едва след това тази, понеже, ако започнете с нея, рискувате да не разберете нищо от ставащото, нито пък да вникнете в персонажите.
„The River of Silver“ е нещо като сборник с истории, които са предназначени най-вече за феновете на поредицата. Не са задължителни, но разширяват познатия свят и хвърлят повече светлина върху някои от героите.
Разказите обхващат историите на Маниже, Рустам и Дурия (родителите на Нахри – разказът с тяхното запознанство беше много хубав), Хатсет – те са части от предисторията на трилогията.
После продължава с по-централните персонажи – Мунтадир, Джамшид, Нахри, Дара, Али и Зейнаб.
Има и една история с Дара и Нахри, която се развива в рамките на първата книга, докато пътуват към Девабад – точно от онзи период, който ми харесва най-много с отношенията между двамата.
Включен е и алтернативен пролог на „Царство от мед“, също е показана и една малко по-различна Нахри от онзи период, която се доближава повече до Нахри от първата книга.
Има и алтернативен епилог на „Империя от злато“, който си е по-скоро Епилог 2 – действието протича след края на третата книга и проследява една силно вълнуваща среща между Дара, Зейнаб и Акиса и завършва с един неочакван съюз.
И Епилог 3 (условно така да го наречем) – година и половина след края на „Империя от злато“ с акцент върху Нахри, Али и Джамшид.
(Ако краят на оригиналната трилогия завършваше някак неутрално по повод на Нахри и Али, то тук отношенията им поемат в една малко по-ясно изразена романтична посока, така че ако сте фенове на двамата като двойка и сте чакали по-сериозно развитие помежду им, то ще кажа – определено има надежда).
Като цяло това допълнение към оригиналната трилогия ми хареса доста. И ми беше супер приятно да се завърна обратно към света на джиновете, докато чакам с нетърпение следващата книга на авторката – „The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi“, която излиза само след няколко месеца – през март '23! 😍
А за „The River of Silver: Tales from the Daevabad Trilogy“ оценка от 4.5 ⭐
📌Предишни ревюта:
1. Град от месинг
2. The Kingdom of Copper
2. Царство от мед
3. The Empire of Gold
3. Империя от злато
„The River of Silver“ е нещо като сборник с истории, които са предназначени най-вече за феновете на поредицата. Не са задължителни, но разширяват познатия свят и хвърлят повече светлина върху някои от героите.
Разказите обхващат историите на Маниже, Рустам и Дурия (родителите на Нахри – разказът с тяхното запознанство беше много хубав), Хатсет – те са части от предисторията на трилогията.
После продължава с по-централните персонажи – Мунтадир, Джамшид, Нахри, Дара, Али и Зейнаб.
Има и една история с Дара и Нахри, която се развива в рамките на първата книга, докато пътуват към Девабад – точно от онзи период, който ми харесва най-много с отношенията между двамата.
Включен е и алтернативен пролог на „Царство от мед“, също е показана и една малко по-различна Нахри от онзи период, която се доближава повече до Нахри от първата книга.
Има и алтернативен епилог на „Империя от злато“, който си е по-скоро Епилог 2 – действието протича след края на третата книга и проследява една силно вълнуваща среща между Дара, Зейнаб и Акиса и завършва с един неочакван съюз.
И Епилог 3 (условно така да го наречем) – година и половина след края на „Империя от злато“ с акцент върху Нахри, Али и Джамшид.
(Ако краят на оригиналната трилогия завършваше някак неутрално по повод на Нахри и Али, то тук отношенията им поемат в една малко по-ясно изразена романтична посока, така че ако сте фенове на двамата като двойка и сте чакали по-сериозно развитие помежду им, то ще кажа – определено има надежда).
Като цяло това допълнение към оригиналната трилогия ми хареса доста. И ми беше супер приятно да се завърна обратно към света на джиновете, докато чакам с нетърпение следващата книга на авторката – „The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi“, която излиза само след няколко месеца – през март '23! 😍
А за „The River of Silver: Tales from the Daevabad Trilogy“ оценка от 4.5 ⭐
📌Предишни ревюта:
1. Град от месинг
2. The Kingdom of Copper
2. Царство от мед
3. The Empire of Gold
3. Империя от злато
March 23, 2025
“Don’t let others make you feel small because they’re struggling to measure up.”
god, what an incredible short story collection! this series has definitely become a new favorite of mine.
if you enjoyed the original trilogy, this is a must-read. it adds so much context and depth to the world and these characters, enriching the lore while also giving you some much-needed closure for the ending. i highly recommend reading it alongside the trilogy - there are spoiler warnings before each story so you'll know which ones to skip or read based on where you are in the series. this made for such an amazing reading experience!
god, what an incredible short story collection! this series has definitely become a new favorite of mine.
if you enjoyed the original trilogy, this is a must-read. it adds so much context and depth to the world and these characters, enriching the lore while also giving you some much-needed closure for the ending. i highly recommend reading it alongside the trilogy - there are spoiler warnings before each story so you'll know which ones to skip or read based on where you are in the series. this made for such an amazing reading experience!
March 18, 2022
god i forgot how much i love this series and its characters <33 (especially manizheh lol)
(also the absolute tease of dhuriya/rustam and dara/akisa/zaynab dynamics i need full length spin off books for both pleaseeeeeeee)
(also the absolute tease of dhuriya/rustam and dara/akisa/zaynab dynamics i need full length spin off books for both pleaseeeeeeee)
September 8, 2022
The fires burn brightly for S. A. Chakraborty- she’s living her best creative life and it’s making me an avid fan.
I really love seeing this part of the creative process. This book is utterly satisfying- answering questions I had in the back of my mind while reading the Daevabad Trilogy.
I really love seeing this part of the creative process. This book is utterly satisfying- answering questions I had in the back of my mind while reading the Daevabad Trilogy.
March 16, 2025
This made me want to reread the trilogy right now like immediately!!! What the heck. God bless her for writing these extra stories and excerpts, this made me emotional :')
February 8, 2023
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the eARC.
Full disclosure: I have never read the Daevabad Trilogy. I picked up this book erroneously, believing it was a standalone, but I am not upset about my choice. This collection of short stories, which is full of spoilers from the trilogy, convinced me I NEED to read the Daevabad trilogy. Not that I wouldn't have read it eventually, but it wasn't front and center on my radar.
Do yourself a favor: read the trilogy and this collection of short stories.
Full disclosure: I have never read the Daevabad Trilogy. I picked up this book erroneously, believing it was a standalone, but I am not upset about my choice. This collection of short stories, which is full of spoilers from the trilogy, convinced me I NEED to read the Daevabad trilogy. Not that I wouldn't have read it eventually, but it wasn't front and center on my radar.
Do yourself a favor: read the trilogy and this collection of short stories.
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