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Twin Flames
When djinn start to show up in twins Leila and Bianca's small Virginia hometown, the only way they and their families will survive will be if the twins can get past their differences and start to act like sisters again.
Twins Bianca and Leila could not be more different from each other. Being both Argentinian and Iranian in a small town has always been hard, but with Leila shunning her heritage and Bianca embracing it, the two walk very different paths. They run in different circles of friends, and barely talk anymore. Leila's a homebody who loves to craft and plans on marrying her high school sweetheart. Bianca's more anti-establishment and plans to get out of Dodge as soon as humanly possible.
But on their eighteenth birthday, the neighbor's barn is burned down--and it doesn't seem to have been caused by anything normal like an electrical or fuel source. When Leila encounters a mysterious monster arising from the fire, suddenly she gains strange powers--and can no longer touch iron or even eat foods with high iron content.
What are these creatures and where are they coming from? What do they want with Leila--or other people in town, for that matter? Can the twins learn to rely on each other--and their cultures--to banish them? It'll take a sisterly reconciliation for the girls to find out and to save their hometown in this New Visions Award-winning fantasy adventure.
Twins Bianca and Leila could not be more different from each other. Being both Argentinian and Iranian in a small town has always been hard, but with Leila shunning her heritage and Bianca embracing it, the two walk very different paths. They run in different circles of friends, and barely talk anymore. Leila's a homebody who loves to craft and plans on marrying her high school sweetheart. Bianca's more anti-establishment and plans to get out of Dodge as soon as humanly possible.
But on their eighteenth birthday, the neighbor's barn is burned down--and it doesn't seem to have been caused by anything normal like an electrical or fuel source. When Leila encounters a mysterious monster arising from the fire, suddenly she gains strange powers--and can no longer touch iron or even eat foods with high iron content.
What are these creatures and where are they coming from? What do they want with Leila--or other people in town, for that matter? Can the twins learn to rely on each other--and their cultures--to banish them? It'll take a sisterly reconciliation for the girls to find out and to save their hometown in this New Visions Award-winning fantasy adventure.
368 pages, Hardcover
Published August 27, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 28, 2024
When I initially saw the cover of the book as well as the premise, Twin Flames peeked my interest in a story about Persian mythology and sibling bonding taking priority. It didn’t disappoint with interesting and developed characters, a fast paced and twisty plot, and intriguing fantasy elements.
We follow twin sisters, Leila and Bianca, starting from when a strange fire breaks out on their 18th birthday, and discover shortly after that it's linked to djinn activity and have to figure out the mystery and repair their fractured relationship before their small Virginia town is lost. I loved the main pairing of Leila and Bianca, with the two basically being the polar opposite in personalities and thoughts, and haven't been getting along since puberty. Their development was realistic and hit me in the feels as they think things through about their paths in life.
The other characters were fleshed out and rather interesting, even if a lot of them don't show up for more than a few chapters. Each played their role and didn't feel like cardboard cutouts.
While it did take me a little bit to get into the fantasy world building at first, I was really immersed and by the end, had a good understanding of it. The main aspect was the djinn, which were more of a malicious force in this story. It delved into aspects of Persian culture and the Middle East that are rarely covered in Western media, and I really enjoyed it. While it mostly explores Persian culture and mythology, the twins are also Argentinian on their mother's side and there's nods to it throughout.
The plot was very engaging. It is a bit slow going at first, but still rather intriguing as the sisters discover more about their new situation and reflecting on their lives and relationships, but when we get to around the halfway point, it gets very twisty and much more engaging. The twists don't really stop either, and it made the book next to impossible to put down. It all made sense and I loved how the ending played out in a satisfactory manner, especially hard in a fantasy standalone. And considering that the story mainly takes place in about a week's time, it was great.
The prose flowed well and was easy to follow. The narrator, Dalia Ramahi, was easy on the ears and packed an emotional punch once those twists started coming. Total 10/10 and I will listen to more books she narrates.
In a way, Twin Flames reminded me of a book I read last year, The Sunlit Ruins: An Old Gods Story, which focused on opposite personality family members plunged into a magical situation.
If you're looking for a Contemporary Fantasy standalone with mythology that's not as common, check this out!
*I received a review copy from Recorded Books and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.*
We follow twin sisters, Leila and Bianca, starting from when a strange fire breaks out on their 18th birthday, and discover shortly after that it's linked to djinn activity and have to figure out the mystery and repair their fractured relationship before their small Virginia town is lost. I loved the main pairing of Leila and Bianca, with the two basically being the polar opposite in personalities and thoughts, and haven't been getting along since puberty. Their development was realistic and hit me in the feels as they think things through about their paths in life.
The other characters were fleshed out and rather interesting, even if a lot of them don't show up for more than a few chapters. Each played their role and didn't feel like cardboard cutouts.
While it did take me a little bit to get into the fantasy world building at first, I was really immersed and by the end, had a good understanding of it. The main aspect was the djinn, which were more of a malicious force in this story. It delved into aspects of Persian culture and the Middle East that are rarely covered in Western media, and I really enjoyed it. While it mostly explores Persian culture and mythology, the twins are also Argentinian on their mother's side and there's nods to it throughout.
The plot was very engaging. It is a bit slow going at first, but still rather intriguing as the sisters discover more about their new situation and reflecting on their lives and relationships, but when we get to around the halfway point, it gets very twisty and much more engaging. The twists don't really stop either, and it made the book next to impossible to put down. It all made sense and I loved how the ending played out in a satisfactory manner, especially hard in a fantasy standalone. And considering that the story mainly takes place in about a week's time, it was great.
The prose flowed well and was easy to follow. The narrator, Dalia Ramahi, was easy on the ears and packed an emotional punch once those twists started coming. Total 10/10 and I will listen to more books she narrates.
In a way, Twin Flames reminded me of a book I read last year, The Sunlit Ruins: An Old Gods Story, which focused on opposite personality family members plunged into a magical situation.
If you're looking for a Contemporary Fantasy standalone with mythology that's not as common, check this out!
*I received a review copy from Recorded Books and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.*
July 7, 2024
My 13-year-old self would have DEVOURED this book, and my 32-year-old self loves that! Strong female characters growing into themselves and questioning the world around them? Check! Lots of lore and exposure to cultures and histories I know little about? Check! Delicious food descriptions that left my mouth watering? Check!
I came for the fantasy adventure story....I stayed for the strong family and friend connections and ability to be so immersed in a story that felt so relatable. BRB, looking for some Iranian and Argentinian restaurants to check out!
Thank you to Olivia Abtahi and Lee & Low for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I came for the fantasy adventure story....I stayed for the strong family and friend connections and ability to be so immersed in a story that felt so relatable. BRB, looking for some Iranian and Argentinian restaurants to check out!
Thank you to Olivia Abtahi and Lee & Low for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2024
4.5⭐
Fast paced and action packed YA fantasy!
Huge thanks to NetGalley and RB Media for the audiobook!
Set in small town Virginia, we follow the twin sisters, Bianca and Leila who are so different from one another. Their dad is an Iranian, and their mom is an Argentinian, and the sisters have always found it difficult to belong in the white town. But Bianca embraces her culture and is proud of it, while Leila shuns her culture and adapts herself to be the cottagecore American girl. Even their dreams are completely opposite - Bianca wants to leave the town while Leila wants to have a normal family and become a mom.
When they turn 18, there's a sudden fire in their neighborhood farm that isn't due to any natural or electrical issues, but rather something supernatural. Their lives are deeply connected to this new problem as the djinn demand they pay their end of the bargain if they wanna save their town. What's this bargain that they haven't heard of? Will they end up saving their town or succumb to the wrath of the djinn? You have to read more to find that out!!
Absolutely loved every moment of this! The sisterly bond shines bright in the novel, as we see Bianca and Leila go from being distant and not talking much to one another for the past four years to joining hands in overthrowing the enemy and saving their town. It warmed my heart to witness them opening up to each other, and showing the sides they've always hid.
The characters are unique, and interesting, and the author has done a wonderful job of portraying their inner struggles and their transformation throughout the plot. The audiobook narrator brought out the uniqueness of both sisters perfectly, and I was able to tell whose pov it was, without even having to read the chapter title!!
Bianca is more edgy and rebellious, and is so relatable. She loves manga, Taylor Swift, pies, and adores her Iranian - Argentinian side. She's outgoing and full of energy, and she feels trapped in this small town. All she wants is to complete her high school and travel around the world. But she starts to learn more about her inner wants as she tackles the djinn problems. She realises how wrong she has always been, and moves forward to making her new goals come true.
On the other hand, Leila is a homebody, she's soft-spoken and loves crocheting and gardening. She wants nothing more to marry her boyfriend, and have a family of her own. She hates change, and tries to not associate herself with her ethnicity, but it all changes on the night of her 18th birthday. She's thrust into a new world which opens her eyes to the whole wide world that exists out of her small town. And it was interesting to see her come to terms with what she really wants, and also who she really wants to be with!! I liked the way the author explored Leila accepting her sexuality and embracing this new side of her.
The book is also rich in Persian mythology, as we encounter countless creatures being mentioned in it - djinns, mareed, giants, etc. And as someone who's a die-hard fan of the Daevabad trilogy, I ate that up!!! And it was so exciting to learn more about the Iranian cuisine, which left me hungry every time I read the book (the platter that their mom made for the Christmas Eve dinner still haunts my mind and makes my stomach grumble🤤🤤)
Overall, a solid YA fantasy debut that's rooted in Persian mythology, with a touch of sisterly bond, self discovery and the struggles of belonging to mixed ethnicity in a small town.
Fast paced and action packed YA fantasy!
Huge thanks to NetGalley and RB Media for the audiobook!
Set in small town Virginia, we follow the twin sisters, Bianca and Leila who are so different from one another. Their dad is an Iranian, and their mom is an Argentinian, and the sisters have always found it difficult to belong in the white town. But Bianca embraces her culture and is proud of it, while Leila shuns her culture and adapts herself to be the cottagecore American girl. Even their dreams are completely opposite - Bianca wants to leave the town while Leila wants to have a normal family and become a mom.
When they turn 18, there's a sudden fire in their neighborhood farm that isn't due to any natural or electrical issues, but rather something supernatural. Their lives are deeply connected to this new problem as the djinn demand they pay their end of the bargain if they wanna save their town. What's this bargain that they haven't heard of? Will they end up saving their town or succumb to the wrath of the djinn? You have to read more to find that out!!
Absolutely loved every moment of this! The sisterly bond shines bright in the novel, as we see Bianca and Leila go from being distant and not talking much to one another for the past four years to joining hands in overthrowing the enemy and saving their town. It warmed my heart to witness them opening up to each other, and showing the sides they've always hid.
The characters are unique, and interesting, and the author has done a wonderful job of portraying their inner struggles and their transformation throughout the plot. The audiobook narrator brought out the uniqueness of both sisters perfectly, and I was able to tell whose pov it was, without even having to read the chapter title!!
Bianca is more edgy and rebellious, and is so relatable. She loves manga, Taylor Swift, pies, and adores her Iranian - Argentinian side. She's outgoing and full of energy, and she feels trapped in this small town. All she wants is to complete her high school and travel around the world. But she starts to learn more about her inner wants as she tackles the djinn problems. She realises how wrong she has always been, and moves forward to making her new goals come true.
On the other hand, Leila is a homebody, she's soft-spoken and loves crocheting and gardening. She wants nothing more to marry her boyfriend, and have a family of her own. She hates change, and tries to not associate herself with her ethnicity, but it all changes on the night of her 18th birthday. She's thrust into a new world which opens her eyes to the whole wide world that exists out of her small town. And it was interesting to see her come to terms with what she really wants, and also who she really wants to be with!! I liked the way the author explored Leila accepting her sexuality and embracing this new side of her.
The book is also rich in Persian mythology, as we encounter countless creatures being mentioned in it - djinns, mareed, giants, etc. And as someone who's a die-hard fan of the Daevabad trilogy, I ate that up!!! And it was so exciting to learn more about the Iranian cuisine, which left me hungry every time I read the book (the platter that their mom made for the Christmas Eve dinner still haunts my mind and makes my stomach grumble🤤🤤)
Overall, a solid YA fantasy debut that's rooted in Persian mythology, with a touch of sisterly bond, self discovery and the struggles of belonging to mixed ethnicity in a small town.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and RBmedia for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review
A great story, loved the jinn storyline and the relationship between the twins, the characters growth was incredible. I especially loved learning more about there family as half Iranian and half Argentinian. I love learning more about other cultures in such a fun way like this. I really enjoyed it and I’d recommend this book!
A great story, loved the jinn storyline and the relationship between the twins, the characters growth was incredible. I especially loved learning more about there family as half Iranian and half Argentinian. I love learning more about other cultures in such a fun way like this. I really enjoyed it and I’d recommend this book!
August 27, 2024
Read if you like:
• YA novels packed with adventure
• Stories centered on the occult and supernatural
• Familial and generational bonds
• Iranian-American/Argentinian-American rep
• Twin sister relationships
• Fast-paced reads
This was such a fun, impactful and interesting story! Yet again, Olivia does a great job bringing you into the cultural nuances of Iranian and Argentinian heritage. I loved her use of the supernatural to tie back to ideas of oppression and reform experienced during the Iranian revolution without it being overwhelming for the reader.
• YA novels packed with adventure
• Stories centered on the occult and supernatural
• Familial and generational bonds
• Iranian-American/Argentinian-American rep
• Twin sister relationships
• Fast-paced reads
This was such a fun, impactful and interesting story! Yet again, Olivia does a great job bringing you into the cultural nuances of Iranian and Argentinian heritage. I loved her use of the supernatural to tie back to ideas of oppression and reform experienced during the Iranian revolution without it being overwhelming for the reader.
May 12, 2024
"Twin Flames" tells the story of Leila and Bianca, polar opposite Iranian-Argentinian twins, who after their eighteenth birthday get involuntarily drawn into the world of djinns. How they defend their small Virginian town from the djinn takeover, while simultaneously repairing their fractured relationship, make up the rest of the story.
When I was little, I read a children's series called "Children of the Lamp" by Phillip Kerr. It was about a pair of twins who find out their djinn heritage and spend the rest of the series defending the human world from djinn conspiracies. In many ways, "Twin Flames" reminded by of those books, but with more culturally appropriate protagonists (Iranian-Argentinian-American twins as opposed to British Caucasian), and with a more convoluted method by which the characters gain their powers (possession as opposed to inheritance).
The inclusion of Iranian folklore is by far the best part of this book, and I wish there had been more of it. Abtahi mentions in passing ghuls, mareeds, and si'lat, but I had hoped for a more in-depth dive into their differences and history than the brief, Wikipedia-esque explanations sprinkled here and there.
The characters of Leila and Bianca were also a positive in my mind. Although the character development of quiet homebody Leila and outspoken contrarian Bianca is predictable to anyone familiar with literary tropes, seeing that process is enjoyable. Abtahi does a good job with making it clear just who her characters are and how they perceive the world.
Where I felt this book could have used a bit of work is the pacing. In the last third, especially after the introduction of , the plot speed kicks up by a thousand, and a lot of the events take place over the course of a day. As a result, any characters, interactions, or action sequences in this section feel incredibly rushed and incomplete. While this could be a case of attempting to keep the book from getting too long, I do feel that a few more pages could have been dedicated to fully forming the characters and sequences in this final part.
Overall, despite its flaws, I did enjoy my time with "Twin Flames," and would recommend it to anyone who wants a different type of fantasy than the typical Western European flavor.
Thanks to YABC for allowing me to read a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When I was little, I read a children's series called "Children of the Lamp" by Phillip Kerr. It was about a pair of twins who find out their djinn heritage and spend the rest of the series defending the human world from djinn conspiracies. In many ways, "Twin Flames" reminded by of those books, but with more culturally appropriate protagonists (Iranian-Argentinian-American twins as opposed to British Caucasian), and with a more convoluted method by which the characters gain their powers (possession as opposed to inheritance).
The inclusion of Iranian folklore is by far the best part of this book, and I wish there had been more of it. Abtahi mentions in passing ghuls, mareeds, and si'lat, but I had hoped for a more in-depth dive into their differences and history than the brief, Wikipedia-esque explanations sprinkled here and there.
The characters of Leila and Bianca were also a positive in my mind. Although the character development of quiet homebody Leila and outspoken contrarian Bianca is predictable to anyone familiar with literary tropes, seeing that process is enjoyable. Abtahi does a good job with making it clear just who her characters are and how they perceive the world.
Where I felt this book could have used a bit of work is the pacing. In the last third, especially after the introduction of , the plot speed kicks up by a thousand, and a lot of the events take place over the course of a day. As a result, any characters, interactions, or action sequences in this section feel incredibly rushed and incomplete. While this could be a case of attempting to keep the book from getting too long, I do feel that a few more pages could have been dedicated to fully forming the characters and sequences in this final part.
Overall, despite its flaws, I did enjoy my time with "Twin Flames," and would recommend it to anyone who wants a different type of fantasy than the typical Western European flavor.
Thanks to YABC for allowing me to read a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an audio copy of this book. This was such a fun YA magical realism book!! I loved it and had a good time listening to it. The characters and story were unique and interesting and the magic-y parts were easy to understand but not boring or predictable. This will be perfect for fans of Harry Potter, Lobizona, Percy Jackson, etc.
October 10, 2024
Leila and her twin sister Bianca cannot be more different. One is a girly girl - the other a goth, and they definitely don’t hang out. On their 18th birthday, things get weird. A barn fire, evil djinn, and magical powers definitely weren’t what these girls had in mind when it came to birthday gifts! When they find out the truth about why the djinn are there to begin with, the sisters are forced to set aside their differences in order to save not only their family but also the town they call home.
I thought this book was pretty well written. I love djinn and all of the various ways they are portrayed in literature, so this was a fun read. I do feel that it reads more as middle grade fiction, personally, but since it includes some mild spice, it lands firmly in the YA category. Though different content-wise this story gave me Magisterium (by Holly Black) vibes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. When listening to it on audio, the voice that the narrator used for Bianca was weirdly babyish considering they were supposed to be 18 years old. Other than that, she did a great job as well. 3.5 stars rounded up!
🧚🏻 Thank you to NetGalley, Recorded Books, and author Olivia Abtahi for providing me with a free audio version of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are mine.
I thought this book was pretty well written. I love djinn and all of the various ways they are portrayed in literature, so this was a fun read. I do feel that it reads more as middle grade fiction, personally, but since it includes some mild spice, it lands firmly in the YA category. Though different content-wise this story gave me Magisterium (by Holly Black) vibes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. When listening to it on audio, the voice that the narrator used for Bianca was weirdly babyish considering they were supposed to be 18 years old. Other than that, she did a great job as well. 3.5 stars rounded up!
🧚🏻 Thank you to NetGalley, Recorded Books, and author Olivia Abtahi for providing me with a free audio version of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are mine.
October 8, 2024
A fascinating and entertaining tale all about djinn mythology and two very different twin sisters, with vivid characters, a small town, bits of humour, LGBTQ+ inclusion, fighting microaggressions, superpowers, and a djinn hunter. Bianca and Leila find ways to be drawn back together as sisters and go on dynamic journeys that lead to change.
Fun twists and turns, fantasy elements, and happily-ever-afters. Overall, I really enjoy Abtahi's books and would highly recommend this one!
Fun twists and turns, fantasy elements, and happily-ever-afters. Overall, I really enjoy Abtahi's books and would highly recommend this one!
November 16, 2024
Slow start, slow ending, overall very slow paced wich in my opinion I don't like in a story that is supposed to be action/mystery.
August 30, 2024
Welcome to my tour stop for the YA fantasy novel Twin Flames by Olivia Abtahi. Abtahi is the author of two other books, Azar On Fire and Perfectly Parvin.
Twin Flames is about two polar opposite Iranian-Argentinian twins, after their 18th birthday gets drawn into the world of Djinns (monsters). Lelia is quiet and shy, while Bianca is outspoken. Their neighbor’s barn is mysteriously burned down in their small Virginian town. Leila encounters a monster arising from the fire, she gain magical powers and cannot eat food with high iron or touch iron. There’s Argentinian and Iranian representation throughout the book.
Favorite Quotes:
“The promise of your ancestors is your burden to bear.”
“The enemy of my enemy is my friend.”
“The thing being Iranian is that you can just tell when you see another Iranian.”
“There’s a price for every wish and you were the price I paid.”
“How dare you gamble with our future.”
“Monsters are real, Magic is around us.”
Thanks to Hear Our Voices Tours, Olivia Abtahi and Lee & Low for the finished copy of this amazing book.
#HearOurVoicesTours #TwinFlames
Twin Flames is about two polar opposite Iranian-Argentinian twins, after their 18th birthday gets drawn into the world of Djinns (monsters). Lelia is quiet and shy, while Bianca is outspoken. Their neighbor’s barn is mysteriously burned down in their small Virginian town. Leila encounters a monster arising from the fire, she gain magical powers and cannot eat food with high iron or touch iron. There’s Argentinian and Iranian representation throughout the book.
Favorite Quotes:
“The promise of your ancestors is your burden to bear.”
“The enemy of my enemy is my friend.”
“The thing being Iranian is that you can just tell when you see another Iranian.”
“There’s a price for every wish and you were the price I paid.”
“How dare you gamble with our future.”
“Monsters are real, Magic is around us.”
Thanks to Hear Our Voices Tours, Olivia Abtahi and Lee & Low for the finished copy of this amazing book.
#HearOurVoicesTours #TwinFlames
August 25, 2025
This is marketed as YA, but I'd say that the reading level and themes are middle grade at best... think maybe grade 6 or 7 reading comprehension skills. Everything is tell and there is minimal if any show. This writing style combined with 18-year-old characters was very strange. There is no reason that these Bianca and Leila couldn't have been younger teenagers or even tweens.
The way these teenage characters acted was very... cringey. It's like they're written by someone who has observed tweens from afar, but hasn't actually interacted with them in years. Leila and Bianca felt like caricatures, their entire personality resting on one trait each. Leila was a trad-wife wannabe who wants to conform to white American culture while Bianca was the "rebellious" one who wanted to branch out and embrace her roots. Their "character development" consisted almost entirely of them just switching their dreams, that being said, it wasn't very strong or believable considering the short period of time elapsed in the book. They changed their minds about their wants and aspirations within a week and barely took time to think it over.
The magic system was also strangely underdeveloped. It showed a lot of potential as we were learning about Iranian/Islamic mythology, but when it came to actually executing the twins' powers it fell short. Their powers seemed very arbitrary and awfully convenient. Not to mention that Leila and Bianca master their respective powers within a few hours of discovering them. The rules also weren't very well thought-out. The twins can't eat spinach and cheeseburgers because they contain too much iron, but they aren't affected by the iron in their own blood? That's just one example of many inconsistent rules.
The world didn't require a lot of building because it is set in our world. However, we aren't shown the things we are told about this town. For example, we're told that this small, majority white American town is racist towards this family of mixed-heritage, but not a single interaction between the twins and other townsfolk displays any racism towards them. We're offhandedly told that the father had a hard time getting a business license because he was an Iranian immigrant and that the mom had to redo her degree because it didn't transfer over from her country (I'm sorry, I really can't remember which country that was because honestly I didn't care about this book that much), but other than that, their race has little impact on how they are treated. I'm not saying that we have to see racism on page for it to be there and valid, but if you're going to make it a main bone of contention that the characters face, you have to do more than tell us that it's happening.
The only part that I really like about this book was getting to know more about the underlying mythology and getting a peek into the lives and practices of Iranian and south-American immigrants in the US. The only reason I'm not rating this book a one star is because it didn't make me mad the way my other one stars did. It just left me feeling underwhelmed and disappointed.
The way these teenage characters acted was very... cringey. It's like they're written by someone who has observed tweens from afar, but hasn't actually interacted with them in years. Leila and Bianca felt like caricatures, their entire personality resting on one trait each. Leila was a trad-wife wannabe who wants to conform to white American culture while Bianca was the "rebellious" one who wanted to branch out and embrace her roots. Their "character development" consisted almost entirely of them just switching their dreams, that being said, it wasn't very strong or believable considering the short period of time elapsed in the book. They changed their minds about their wants and aspirations within a week and barely took time to think it over.
The magic system was also strangely underdeveloped. It showed a lot of potential as we were learning about Iranian/Islamic mythology, but when it came to actually executing the twins' powers it fell short. Their powers seemed very arbitrary and awfully convenient. Not to mention that Leila and Bianca master their respective powers within a few hours of discovering them. The rules also weren't very well thought-out. The twins can't eat spinach and cheeseburgers because they contain too much iron, but they aren't affected by the iron in their own blood? That's just one example of many inconsistent rules.
The world didn't require a lot of building because it is set in our world. However, we aren't shown the things we are told about this town. For example, we're told that this small, majority white American town is racist towards this family of mixed-heritage, but not a single interaction between the twins and other townsfolk displays any racism towards them. We're offhandedly told that the father had a hard time getting a business license because he was an Iranian immigrant and that the mom had to redo her degree because it didn't transfer over from her country (I'm sorry, I really can't remember which country that was because honestly I didn't care about this book that much), but other than that, their race has little impact on how they are treated. I'm not saying that we have to see racism on page for it to be there and valid, but if you're going to make it a main bone of contention that the characters face, you have to do more than tell us that it's happening.
The only part that I really like about this book was getting to know more about the underlying mythology and getting a peek into the lives and practices of Iranian and south-American immigrants in the US. The only reason I'm not rating this book a one star is because it didn't make me mad the way my other one stars did. It just left me feeling underwhelmed and disappointed.
September 6, 2024
I was kindly sent an e-ARC of this book by Sacha Chadwick at Lee and Low Books for which my thanks.
Twin Flames (2024) is a young adult fantasy novel set around estranged twin sisters having to battle a horde of djinns who have invaded their town to protect both their family and the place they love. In this process they not only find their way back to each other but reassess what each of them really wants in life. Fast-paced and exciting, and dealing with themes of family and the bond between twins, dreams and aspirations, and also identity and growing up biracial in small town America, this was a book I enjoyed reading immensely.
Mirroring author Olivia Abtahi’s own background, Bianca (or Behnaz) and Leila Mazanderani are twins on the cusp of 18, born to an Iranian father and Argentinian mother and growing up in Ayers, a small town in Virginia where they are virtually the only ‘outsiders’. Almost as different as chalk and cheese, Bianca can’t wait to finish high school and leave Ayers behind, travelling and seeing the world while Leila wishes to take the more conventional path, marrying her boyfriend Foster and settling down to a quiet farm life. Their styles and interests reflect these dreams too, Leila only dressing in skirts and dresses, oftentimes made by herself and Bianca in a goth style sprinkled with anime. Their attitudes to their roots likewise contrast completely, Bianca wearing her Iranian and Argentinian identities on her sleeve and Leila choosing present herself as ‘American’, shunning anything that might indicate otherwise. Over the years, the sisters have drifted apart, each with their own friends, not even really talking to each other anymore.
As the twins celebrate their 18th birthdays, their father presents them with iron rings which in line with their attitudes, Bianca immediately wears while Leila puts aside. But things start to change soon after as a fire breaks out in the barn of the farm next door and Leila is sure she saw something (someone?) amidst it. Then other similarly mysterious episodes take place in town and Leila and Bianca discover that these aren’t accidents but being caused by supernatural forces—djinns in fact. And the djinns are looking for them in particular, something to do with their family’s past but they have no idea what. An initial brush with Cyrus the leader (Prince, in fact) of the djinns leaves the girls with some extraordinary powers, powers they will need to master and hone rapidly, as if the djinns don’t get what they have come for, they vow to target the entire town, the twins’ parents amongst them.
Twin Flames gives us an action-packed adventure story replete with fantasy and magic, from the djinns themselves to the girls acquiring various powers (from flame-throwing to teleporting), all of which and more they need to battle the djinns. We learn plenty about djinns too as the story unfolds, for djinns aren’t just the Aladdin wish-granting kinds but of various types and with varying levels of danger (not that there’s a mild one). Some of these can be down-right frightening like the palis who will drink your blood from your toes, should you happen to keep your feet uncovered at night. So, if you’re one of those who doesn’t, don’t say you weren’t warned! Battling the djinns for the girls is not just a question of using their newly acquired powers but also their wits and in the process learning family secrets they had no hint of. Full of dangers and challenges at every step, including the possibility of being possessed, this is a battle that keeps the girls on their toes and the reader engaged all through. How things are resolved at the end was something I never saw coming and which I thought very nicely done, indeed.
As the adventure plays out, the author also explores other themes, among them issues of race and identity in small-town America. Bianca, Leila and their parents are made to feel their identity every step of the way, whether it is in their mother having to reacquire qualifications she already had in her home country or their father unable to open the garage be wanted or Bianca being called out by her Spanish teacher for her Argentinian accent. While the racism here might not be violent or excessive, it is ever present and they are always looked upon as outsiders even though the girls were born right there. Of course, this isn’t the case with everyone as they have plenty of friends and many in town too consider them as much a part of it as they themselves are.
I loved that the story, apart from the adventure aspects which remain front and centre all through, foregrounded the family and sibling/twin relationship. The girls, as mentioned, have become estranged but this face off with the djinns gives them a chance to find their way back to each other and to rediscover a connection that’s as deep as can be. Alongside, the journey brings them face to face with truths about themselves that they either didn’t have a clue to or that were simmering beneath the surface but they hadn’t consciously realised, with surprising results. There are threads of romance, too, but these remain on the sidelines and don’t really take over the story at any point which I appreciated.
There are also plenty of cultural references, including food enough to make one hungry (among other occasions in a Christmas feast). Persian and Spanish words are used throughout, and in the former I found many words in common with what which we use (or at least are familiar with) in India. I also liked that there was a mention of connections between Persian (Farsi), Gujarati and Sanskrit.
A wonderful read with plenty to enjoy!
Twin Flames (2024) is a young adult fantasy novel set around estranged twin sisters having to battle a horde of djinns who have invaded their town to protect both their family and the place they love. In this process they not only find their way back to each other but reassess what each of them really wants in life. Fast-paced and exciting, and dealing with themes of family and the bond between twins, dreams and aspirations, and also identity and growing up biracial in small town America, this was a book I enjoyed reading immensely.
Mirroring author Olivia Abtahi’s own background, Bianca (or Behnaz) and Leila Mazanderani are twins on the cusp of 18, born to an Iranian father and Argentinian mother and growing up in Ayers, a small town in Virginia where they are virtually the only ‘outsiders’. Almost as different as chalk and cheese, Bianca can’t wait to finish high school and leave Ayers behind, travelling and seeing the world while Leila wishes to take the more conventional path, marrying her boyfriend Foster and settling down to a quiet farm life. Their styles and interests reflect these dreams too, Leila only dressing in skirts and dresses, oftentimes made by herself and Bianca in a goth style sprinkled with anime. Their attitudes to their roots likewise contrast completely, Bianca wearing her Iranian and Argentinian identities on her sleeve and Leila choosing present herself as ‘American’, shunning anything that might indicate otherwise. Over the years, the sisters have drifted apart, each with their own friends, not even really talking to each other anymore.
As the twins celebrate their 18th birthdays, their father presents them with iron rings which in line with their attitudes, Bianca immediately wears while Leila puts aside. But things start to change soon after as a fire breaks out in the barn of the farm next door and Leila is sure she saw something (someone?) amidst it. Then other similarly mysterious episodes take place in town and Leila and Bianca discover that these aren’t accidents but being caused by supernatural forces—djinns in fact. And the djinns are looking for them in particular, something to do with their family’s past but they have no idea what. An initial brush with Cyrus the leader (Prince, in fact) of the djinns leaves the girls with some extraordinary powers, powers they will need to master and hone rapidly, as if the djinns don’t get what they have come for, they vow to target the entire town, the twins’ parents amongst them.
Twin Flames gives us an action-packed adventure story replete with fantasy and magic, from the djinns themselves to the girls acquiring various powers (from flame-throwing to teleporting), all of which and more they need to battle the djinns. We learn plenty about djinns too as the story unfolds, for djinns aren’t just the Aladdin wish-granting kinds but of various types and with varying levels of danger (not that there’s a mild one). Some of these can be down-right frightening like the palis who will drink your blood from your toes, should you happen to keep your feet uncovered at night. So, if you’re one of those who doesn’t, don’t say you weren’t warned! Battling the djinns for the girls is not just a question of using their newly acquired powers but also their wits and in the process learning family secrets they had no hint of. Full of dangers and challenges at every step, including the possibility of being possessed, this is a battle that keeps the girls on their toes and the reader engaged all through. How things are resolved at the end was something I never saw coming and which I thought very nicely done, indeed.
As the adventure plays out, the author also explores other themes, among them issues of race and identity in small-town America. Bianca, Leila and their parents are made to feel their identity every step of the way, whether it is in their mother having to reacquire qualifications she already had in her home country or their father unable to open the garage be wanted or Bianca being called out by her Spanish teacher for her Argentinian accent. While the racism here might not be violent or excessive, it is ever present and they are always looked upon as outsiders even though the girls were born right there. Of course, this isn’t the case with everyone as they have plenty of friends and many in town too consider them as much a part of it as they themselves are.
I loved that the story, apart from the adventure aspects which remain front and centre all through, foregrounded the family and sibling/twin relationship. The girls, as mentioned, have become estranged but this face off with the djinns gives them a chance to find their way back to each other and to rediscover a connection that’s as deep as can be. Alongside, the journey brings them face to face with truths about themselves that they either didn’t have a clue to or that were simmering beneath the surface but they hadn’t consciously realised, with surprising results. There are threads of romance, too, but these remain on the sidelines and don’t really take over the story at any point which I appreciated.
There are also plenty of cultural references, including food enough to make one hungry (among other occasions in a Christmas feast). Persian and Spanish words are used throughout, and in the former I found many words in common with what which we use (or at least are familiar with) in India. I also liked that there was a mention of connections between Persian (Farsi), Gujarati and Sanskrit.
A wonderful read with plenty to enjoy!
Read
September 16, 2024Review copy: ARC via publisher
Twin Flames begins with a simple birthday celebration, but the pace picks up almost immediately. The fires start and the djinn keep the twins scrambling and in a race for survival. This was a book that I read in one big gulp because I could not wait to see what happened next and which type of djinn would jump out onto the page.
It’s a dual narration with the twins sharing their unique ways of experiencing the events. While Bianca leans goth, Leila seems to be heading down the trad wife path. Leila wishes that she had been born back in time a bit and finds comfort and safety in her sewing, crafting and styling herself like women of the past. That isn’t really a perspective that I’ve seen often in young adult books, but there is a rising visibility of that lifestyle in social media so perhaps we’ll be seeing more of this in YA.
The action was suspenseful so it’s a page turner, yet the relationships and interactions between friends and family are also intense. The love between characters is evident, but the complications of being in relationship with one another can be seen and felt throughout the story. The djinn and all they bring are the smoke and fire, but the humans connecting with each other is the real heart of the book.
A lot of the connection, or lack thereof, comes as the twins are struggling with their identities. While working through challenges and trying to stay alive, it becomes clearer what is truly important to them even though they thought they already knew who they were and what they wanted in life.
As tightly as Bianca is holding to her culture and languages, Leila is pushing away those same things in an effort to blend in. It’s fascinating to contemplate how siblings in the same situation can react in completely different ways and move through the world so uniquely.
And did I mention romance? It’s not all about that, but there’s some romance in the air if that is something that appeals.
Recommendation: Get it as soon as you can especially if you have an interest in fantasy involving djinn and intriguing sibling relationships.
Twin Flames begins with a simple birthday celebration, but the pace picks up almost immediately. The fires start and the djinn keep the twins scrambling and in a race for survival. This was a book that I read in one big gulp because I could not wait to see what happened next and which type of djinn would jump out onto the page.
It’s a dual narration with the twins sharing their unique ways of experiencing the events. While Bianca leans goth, Leila seems to be heading down the trad wife path. Leila wishes that she had been born back in time a bit and finds comfort and safety in her sewing, crafting and styling herself like women of the past. That isn’t really a perspective that I’ve seen often in young adult books, but there is a rising visibility of that lifestyle in social media so perhaps we’ll be seeing more of this in YA.
The action was suspenseful so it’s a page turner, yet the relationships and interactions between friends and family are also intense. The love between characters is evident, but the complications of being in relationship with one another can be seen and felt throughout the story. The djinn and all they bring are the smoke and fire, but the humans connecting with each other is the real heart of the book.
A lot of the connection, or lack thereof, comes as the twins are struggling with their identities. While working through challenges and trying to stay alive, it becomes clearer what is truly important to them even though they thought they already knew who they were and what they wanted in life.
As tightly as Bianca is holding to her culture and languages, Leila is pushing away those same things in an effort to blend in. It’s fascinating to contemplate how siblings in the same situation can react in completely different ways and move through the world so uniquely.
And did I mention romance? It’s not all about that, but there’s some romance in the air if that is something that appeals.
Recommendation: Get it as soon as you can especially if you have an interest in fantasy involving djinn and intriguing sibling relationships.
October 19, 2024
**I RECEIVED A FREE ARC OF THE AUDIOBOOK FROM NETGALLEY. THANK YOU A TON. THIS HAS NOT IMPACTED MY REVIEW IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM. **
*NO MAJOR SPOILERS WERE HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THIS REVIEW**
So the vibes were real for this one. I really enjoyed it! I requested this book on a whim, and I had no expectations. But wow, I was sucked into the experience and journey of these twins. The writing was a blend of contemporary mixed with mythical elements, not unlike percy jackson. It had a similar vibe and that is perhaps why I enjoyed it. While this is on the middle grade/young adult side, this book did deal with some heavier topics such as racism, cultures, belonging, etc. But it also was rich with themes such as found family, you choose your own destiny, etc. I also liked the bit of myth splashed into it. I was not familiar with any of it, so I loved learning more.
I liked the main characters, though with audio, it was a bit difficult to discern between the two. The only real way to tell them apart was through their hopes for the future and attitude. One embraced their culture and one wanted to be a stay at home mom caretaker. And you know what, I admire the author for originally writing that into the story. Because while it might not be a glamorous or flashy dream, it is still something that the main character thought would make her happy. Until it didnt.
Since this is middle grade ish, there was not much romance, but there were a few alludes to some teen fooling around and crushes. That was cute, but not the center of the story. I definitely think family was the center of this story and what one is willing to sacrifice to go after their dreams.
Overall, i liked the fast paced adventure, could relate to the characters (being a minority myself) and I learned some stuff. All in a good days read. Remember, this is all my own opinion. if you want your own, read/listen to the book.
*NO MAJOR SPOILERS WERE HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THIS REVIEW**
So the vibes were real for this one. I really enjoyed it! I requested this book on a whim, and I had no expectations. But wow, I was sucked into the experience and journey of these twins. The writing was a blend of contemporary mixed with mythical elements, not unlike percy jackson. It had a similar vibe and that is perhaps why I enjoyed it. While this is on the middle grade/young adult side, this book did deal with some heavier topics such as racism, cultures, belonging, etc. But it also was rich with themes such as found family, you choose your own destiny, etc. I also liked the bit of myth splashed into it. I was not familiar with any of it, so I loved learning more.
I liked the main characters, though with audio, it was a bit difficult to discern between the two. The only real way to tell them apart was through their hopes for the future and attitude. One embraced their culture and one wanted to be a stay at home mom caretaker. And you know what, I admire the author for originally writing that into the story. Because while it might not be a glamorous or flashy dream, it is still something that the main character thought would make her happy. Until it didnt.
Since this is middle grade ish, there was not much romance, but there were a few alludes to some teen fooling around and crushes. That was cute, but not the center of the story. I definitely think family was the center of this story and what one is willing to sacrifice to go after their dreams.
Overall, i liked the fast paced adventure, could relate to the characters (being a minority myself) and I learned some stuff. All in a good days read. Remember, this is all my own opinion. if you want your own, read/listen to the book.
August 31, 2024
• Thanks to Hear our voices for providing me with an arc •
Told from the sisters' POV, Twin Flames tells what it can be like to grow up in otherness in the United States, using both extremes: accepting those differences and showing them with pride or trying to hide them. And that is why this is a book full of Iranian culture, with their customs, their foods, their beliefs and their villains. I liked that it gives basic knowledge about djinns, their origins and their different types. Considering that I'm a person with zero knowledge about it, I was able to understand everything perfectly.
The representation of Argentine culture is correct but not so present, which makes sense when you think where the plot is going. And except for the occasional misconjugation, the Spanish is very good and it's not cringy like other books that throw random words in Spanish at you just because. It did seem strange to me that at Christmas Eve dinner there was seafood soup as a typical Argentine dish. Generally, on that date it is about 40° C here because we are in summer, if we eat soup, we will die. Maybe the Argentinians living in the other hemisphere created new traditions, I don't know, but it is incorrect to say that it is something typical from Argentina.
It is an entertaining book with a good pace, with good character development, who we see evolve as the pages go by. What I liked the most is that it shows that you can change your life plans and it's more than okay, we are allowed to do so. I did feel that there was a lack of development in the characters' relationships, I was left wanting to know more about the twins' past.
If you want to read a book that teaches you a little more about Iranian beliefs and culture and/or is about discovering yourself, understanding yourself and healing family bonds, Twin Flames is for you.
Told from the sisters' POV, Twin Flames tells what it can be like to grow up in otherness in the United States, using both extremes: accepting those differences and showing them with pride or trying to hide them. And that is why this is a book full of Iranian culture, with their customs, their foods, their beliefs and their villains. I liked that it gives basic knowledge about djinns, their origins and their different types. Considering that I'm a person with zero knowledge about it, I was able to understand everything perfectly.
The representation of Argentine culture is correct but not so present, which makes sense when you think where the plot is going. And except for the occasional misconjugation, the Spanish is very good and it's not cringy like other books that throw random words in Spanish at you just because. It did seem strange to me that at Christmas Eve dinner there was seafood soup as a typical Argentine dish. Generally, on that date it is about 40° C here because we are in summer, if we eat soup, we will die. Maybe the Argentinians living in the other hemisphere created new traditions, I don't know, but it is incorrect to say that it is something typical from Argentina.
It is an entertaining book with a good pace, with good character development, who we see evolve as the pages go by. What I liked the most is that it shows that you can change your life plans and it's more than okay, we are allowed to do so. I did feel that there was a lack of development in the characters' relationships, I was left wanting to know more about the twins' past.
If you want to read a book that teaches you a little more about Iranian beliefs and culture and/or is about discovering yourself, understanding yourself and healing family bonds, Twin Flames is for you.
September 1, 2024
Heartiest gratitude to @hearourvoicestours for the review copy! ❤️❤️ Absolutely loved the blend of two cultures and the realistic portrayal of struggles Immigrants face while settling into a new country.
Personal Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.75 / 5
🦋 Favourite Quotes 🦋 :
🌪️ She had thought she could shoehorn herself into this picture-perfect life. But being quiet and agreeable had gotten her nowhere, and she felt at fault for a boyfriend who cheated on her. Not because she deserved it; she knew she didn't. But because she hadn't been true to herself in the first place.
🌪️ Bianca considered the question. Were there any boys she liked at school? No, not really. But she did like how it felt to protect Steve, to step in front of fire and see the awe in his eyes when she had shielded him. That, she had to admit felt pretty good.
🌪️ There was just no way she was going to stay here, not after her life had been cracked open, not after she learned she could go anywhere in the world with the snap of a finger. But still, this was where she'd learned to ride a bike and where the owner of the craft store had taught her how to sew. It was where her family was, along with all her memories. This town was too precious to her. She had too much to lose.
🌪️ Leila : It's okay, Shiv. I already know.
Her phone immediately buzzed again.
Shivani : Want me to kill him for you? Or I could pray to our shrine that he gets a really bad case of Jock itch?
🌪️ "Any reason you threw pebbles at my window instead of texting me?" Bianca asked.
"Just felt like it", Steve replied.
🌪️ "There's a price for every wish", he said, tears now streaming down his face. "And you were the price I paid."
🌪️ It wasn't normal, but for now, that was okay.
We are safe, Leila reminded herself. And that's all that matters.
Personal Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.75 / 5
🦋 Favourite Quotes 🦋 :
🌪️ She had thought she could shoehorn herself into this picture-perfect life. But being quiet and agreeable had gotten her nowhere, and she felt at fault for a boyfriend who cheated on her. Not because she deserved it; she knew she didn't. But because she hadn't been true to herself in the first place.
🌪️ Bianca considered the question. Were there any boys she liked at school? No, not really. But she did like how it felt to protect Steve, to step in front of fire and see the awe in his eyes when she had shielded him. That, she had to admit felt pretty good.
🌪️ There was just no way she was going to stay here, not after her life had been cracked open, not after she learned she could go anywhere in the world with the snap of a finger. But still, this was where she'd learned to ride a bike and where the owner of the craft store had taught her how to sew. It was where her family was, along with all her memories. This town was too precious to her. She had too much to lose.
🌪️ Leila : It's okay, Shiv. I already know.
Her phone immediately buzzed again.
Shivani : Want me to kill him for you? Or I could pray to our shrine that he gets a really bad case of Jock itch?
🌪️ "Any reason you threw pebbles at my window instead of texting me?" Bianca asked.
"Just felt like it", Steve replied.
🌪️ "There's a price for every wish", he said, tears now streaming down his face. "And you were the price I paid."
🌪️ It wasn't normal, but for now, that was okay.
We are safe, Leila reminded herself. And that's all that matters.
October 14, 2024
When I saw the cover of this book on NetGalley, I just knew I had to read it! The twins look strong and powerful and reading through the description really intrigued me. I know a little about djinn from other books I've read but I wouldn't say I'm an expert of any kind but found the book provided enough information through the story that everything made sense. I also took some time to google a few things to get a clearer picture of what they were up against.
Leila and Bianca couldn't have been more different. It isn't explained until later on in the book why their relationship is strained but it brings some drama to the first half. I really enjoyed the fact that they had both Iranian and Argentinian traditions and culture in their home and both were celebrated by the famliy. There was definitely some interesting parts about living in such a small town where no one looked like them and how each sister felt differently about how to handle that.
The second half is really action packed filled with powers and battles and the mysterious Zahra who really opens things up for Leila especially. I don't know if I quite bought the way the battle/bargain was resolved but sometimes you have to go with the flow and just enjoy the fantasy of it all.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and really enjoyed the narrator. She brought the story to life with her dramatic reading and voice work. With the alternating point of view, it was helpful that the author put the name of the twin we would be following. I might have gotten lost if not since it was an audiobook and the voices were somewhat similar for the main characters.
I received an audiobook copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Leila and Bianca couldn't have been more different. It isn't explained until later on in the book why their relationship is strained but it brings some drama to the first half. I really enjoyed the fact that they had both Iranian and Argentinian traditions and culture in their home and both were celebrated by the famliy. There was definitely some interesting parts about living in such a small town where no one looked like them and how each sister felt differently about how to handle that.
The second half is really action packed filled with powers and battles and the mysterious Zahra who really opens things up for Leila especially. I don't know if I quite bought the way the battle/bargain was resolved but sometimes you have to go with the flow and just enjoy the fantasy of it all.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and really enjoyed the narrator. She brought the story to life with her dramatic reading and voice work. With the alternating point of view, it was helpful that the author put the name of the twin we would be following. I might have gotten lost if not since it was an audiobook and the voices were somewhat similar for the main characters.
I received an audiobook copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
June 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, RB Media, Recorded Books, Blackstone Publishing, Lee & Low Books, Olivia Abtahi, and Dalia Ramahi (audio narrator) for the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook of Twin Flames in exchange for an honest review.
Twin Flames follows twin sisters Bianca and Leila. Seniors in high school having just turned eighteen, they are thinking about what will come next. Leila loves her small town and thinks she may stay and have a family. Bianca wants nothing more to escape and travel the world. Really to be anywhere but their small town.
One night, the neighbor's farm burns down. As one shouldn't do, Laila's boyfriend wants to come over and see for himself. Something unexplainable happens, in which a djinn makes its presence known. From within Leila, it says it is owed flesh. She finds that after expelling the djinn, she can wield fire powers and teleport. Bianca is certainly jealous of her sister's "super powers." As the sisters learn why the djinn prince has come for them, wish a whole djinn army, the girls learn more about themselves than they were ever expecting, and they discover a secret about their family history that they certainly were not expecting.
I enjoyed the premise of this novel. It has some interesting Middle Eastern and Hispanic cultural and mythological elements. It also shows how sometimes as people, we think we know who we are and what we want to do with our lives, but then experiences reshape those ideas, that people are constantly changing.
This makes for a fun novel for young adult and new adult readers alike.
Twin Flames follows twin sisters Bianca and Leila. Seniors in high school having just turned eighteen, they are thinking about what will come next. Leila loves her small town and thinks she may stay and have a family. Bianca wants nothing more to escape and travel the world. Really to be anywhere but their small town.
One night, the neighbor's farm burns down. As one shouldn't do, Laila's boyfriend wants to come over and see for himself. Something unexplainable happens, in which a djinn makes its presence known. From within Leila, it says it is owed flesh. She finds that after expelling the djinn, she can wield fire powers and teleport. Bianca is certainly jealous of her sister's "super powers." As the sisters learn why the djinn prince has come for them, wish a whole djinn army, the girls learn more about themselves than they were ever expecting, and they discover a secret about their family history that they certainly were not expecting.
I enjoyed the premise of this novel. It has some interesting Middle Eastern and Hispanic cultural and mythological elements. It also shows how sometimes as people, we think we know who we are and what we want to do with our lives, but then experiences reshape those ideas, that people are constantly changing.
This makes for a fun novel for young adult and new adult readers alike.
August 27, 2024
3.5 Stars
This book book has Iranian and Argentinian representation, and I knew I had to read it! It's rare that I see any part of my culture in books, so I had to sign up! Also, this book called to my inner child, who still loves magical powers.
Twin Flames is about twin sisters, Bianca and Leila, who are half Iranian and half Argentinian. Leila wants nothing to do with her culture and wants to blend in with her peers. I tried to see Leila's perspective since I did grow up here, but her stereotypical views of how Persian people look were not my cup of tea. Bianca embraces both cultures and lives outside the box, but she is definitely judgmental of those surrounding her. They are the complete opposite of each other.
On the night of their 18th birthday, everything changes when the djinn wreaks havoc in their town. The girls need to come together and rely on the power of sisterhood and their culture to defeat the djinn. They couldn't be more different if they tried, but their family and friends were relying on the girls to save them all. Can Leila and Bianca put their differences aside to save their town?
Overall, I really enjoyed the book even though it was very different from my usual reads. I liked the Persian folklore added into the book. It was definitely my favorite part.
This book book has Iranian and Argentinian representation, and I knew I had to read it! It's rare that I see any part of my culture in books, so I had to sign up! Also, this book called to my inner child, who still loves magical powers.
Twin Flames is about twin sisters, Bianca and Leila, who are half Iranian and half Argentinian. Leila wants nothing to do with her culture and wants to blend in with her peers. I tried to see Leila's perspective since I did grow up here, but her stereotypical views of how Persian people look were not my cup of tea. Bianca embraces both cultures and lives outside the box, but she is definitely judgmental of those surrounding her. They are the complete opposite of each other.
On the night of their 18th birthday, everything changes when the djinn wreaks havoc in their town. The girls need to come together and rely on the power of sisterhood and their culture to defeat the djinn. They couldn't be more different if they tried, but their family and friends were relying on the girls to save them all. Can Leila and Bianca put their differences aside to save their town?
Overall, I really enjoyed the book even though it was very different from my usual reads. I liked the Persian folklore added into the book. It was definitely my favorite part.
September 24, 2024
I received an advance listening copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.
Oh, this was delightful! I love all the different djinn and the different ways and directions Bianca and Leila grow. Leila’s queer awakening gave me such giddy delight, especially as this wasn’t like a central element of her story, but just another layer of her and her experiences, I also really loved the contrast in Bianca and Leila’s attitude towards where they grew up, and how those attitudes shifted as they grew into their powers and abilities. This also has so many sweet moments and great moments of friendship. Also, cannot forget about the dynamic between the twins shifting and them finding their way back towards each other after being estranged. I loved so many elements of this story, and wouldn’t mind more with these characters, though overall this felt like a solid standalone and while there’s space to grow the world, this story feels solidly completed.
The narration is also really good and I liked that the different characters had distinct voices.
Oh, this was delightful! I love all the different djinn and the different ways and directions Bianca and Leila grow. Leila’s queer awakening gave me such giddy delight, especially as this wasn’t like a central element of her story, but just another layer of her and her experiences, I also really loved the contrast in Bianca and Leila’s attitude towards where they grew up, and how those attitudes shifted as they grew into their powers and abilities. This also has so many sweet moments and great moments of friendship. Also, cannot forget about the dynamic between the twins shifting and them finding their way back towards each other after being estranged. I loved so many elements of this story, and wouldn’t mind more with these characters, though overall this felt like a solid standalone and while there’s space to grow the world, this story feels solidly completed.
The narration is also really good and I liked that the different characters had distinct voices.
August 29, 2024
✨Book Review @hearourvoicestours✨
Twin Flames by Olivia Abtahi @oliviaabtahi
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✨Rating & Review✨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In my line of work, I can always find value in self discovery and exploration. What I love even more? Watching people learn more about their culture from their parents. Add to the fact that the Mazanderani twins share different views about their parents’ cultures. Ugh, the geniuses that is here! I know these are just a bunch of words, but har me out: Olivia has done an amazing job at incorporating the mixture of Iranian and Argentinian foods; the djinn myths and the power of the Quran. I love all that this book stood for and can’t wait to see more from Olivia and her complex characters. Thank you Olivia and HOV for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. It has been my absolute pleasure.
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#Books #BookRecommendation #BlackGirlsReadBooksToo #BlackGirlsRead #Bookstagram #BlackBookstagram #BooksAreAGirlsBestFriend #QueerReadersOfInatagram #ReadersOfInstagram #BookishGirls #BookReviews #HOV #HOVBookTour #HearOurVoices #TwinFlames
Twin Flames by Olivia Abtahi @oliviaabtahi
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✨Rating & Review✨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In my line of work, I can always find value in self discovery and exploration. What I love even more? Watching people learn more about their culture from their parents. Add to the fact that the Mazanderani twins share different views about their parents’ cultures. Ugh, the geniuses that is here! I know these are just a bunch of words, but har me out: Olivia has done an amazing job at incorporating the mixture of Iranian and Argentinian foods; the djinn myths and the power of the Quran. I love all that this book stood for and can’t wait to see more from Olivia and her complex characters. Thank you Olivia and HOV for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. It has been my absolute pleasure.
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#Books #BookRecommendation #BlackGirlsReadBooksToo #BlackGirlsRead #Bookstagram #BlackBookstagram #BooksAreAGirlsBestFriend #QueerReadersOfInatagram #ReadersOfInstagram #BookishGirls #BookReviews #HOV #HOVBookTour #HearOurVoices #TwinFlames
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August 30, 2024I’m really not the target audience, so I can’t exactly give a star rating, but I think for young readers this will be a lot of fun.
I really enjoyed the blend of the Argentinan-Iranian cultural rep, mythology elements, sisterhood, and self-discovery in this YA fantasy. From the start there were things that set Leila and Bianca apart, and they work through their differences and lean on each other for support. I’m truly a sucker for good sisterhood books, and this one didn’t disappoint. My favorite element, though not the MAIN point of the book, is the moments that touch on the immigrant experience of the parents.
For fellow Muslim readers: if you’ve been following my reviews for a while, you know I am not a fan of books that romanticize djinns, (caliphs, scholars, etc) but I thought this book didn’t do that. It was more intertwined with Iranian/Argentinan culture and stories than anything. I don’t like how often the Quran is used and the context for it, but again I think as it goes along with Iranian culture it makes sense in the story.
I really enjoyed the blend of the Argentinan-Iranian cultural rep, mythology elements, sisterhood, and self-discovery in this YA fantasy. From the start there were things that set Leila and Bianca apart, and they work through their differences and lean on each other for support. I’m truly a sucker for good sisterhood books, and this one didn’t disappoint. My favorite element, though not the MAIN point of the book, is the moments that touch on the immigrant experience of the parents.
For fellow Muslim readers: if you’ve been following my reviews for a while, you know I am not a fan of books that romanticize djinns, (caliphs, scholars, etc) but I thought this book didn’t do that. It was more intertwined with Iranian/Argentinan culture and stories than anything. I don’t like how often the Quran is used and the context for it, but again I think as it goes along with Iranian culture it makes sense in the story.
November 4, 2024
Thrilling adventure filled with high stakes magic, Twin Flames explores adventure, sibling dynamics, and supernatural challenges, making it a must-read for young adults. The story follows two brave twins who find themselves unexpectedly thrust into a mystical world, where their bond is tested in ways they never imagined. The plot moves at a perfect pace, with enough twists and magical elements to keep readers eagerly flipping the pages.
The author does a fantastic job developing the twins’ contrasting personalities while showcasing how they rely on each other's strengths. Their journey through unexpected dangers and clever battles against genies is both intense and inspiring, blending themes of courage, family, and self-discovery. Fans of magical realism and YA fantasy will be captivated by the vividly described settings and unique twists on Persian lore that make this story stand out.
"Title of the Book" is an enjoyable, imaginative escape, perfect for young readers who love adventure, magic, and a well-crafted sibling story. Highly recommended!
The author does a fantastic job developing the twins’ contrasting personalities while showcasing how they rely on each other's strengths. Their journey through unexpected dangers and clever battles against genies is both intense and inspiring, blending themes of courage, family, and self-discovery. Fans of magical realism and YA fantasy will be captivated by the vividly described settings and unique twists on Persian lore that make this story stand out.
"Title of the Book" is an enjoyable, imaginative escape, perfect for young readers who love adventure, magic, and a well-crafted sibling story. Highly recommended!
September 20, 2024
Bianca and Leila are biracial, Iranian and Argentinian. They are polar opposites. Leila wants to "fit in" and avoids her heritage while Bianca embraces it fully. On their eighteenth birthday a "random" fire in a barn causes the twins lives to be thrown into chaos as djinns cause issue in their hometown. The twins must set aside their differences and work together to save their hometown.
Being a twin myself I am such a sucker for twin books, I really enjoyed the fact both of the twins are very different, most of the time we are. Bianca was probably my favorite of the two, but I really liked Leila too and understood why she acted how she did. The audio was done VERY well, and I really enjoyed hearing how the names/places were properly pronounced. I think the narrator did a fantastic job.
I think this YA novel is great for anyone who enjoys a multi- cultural action-packed adventure where family and community are important.
Being a twin myself I am such a sucker for twin books, I really enjoyed the fact both of the twins are very different, most of the time we are. Bianca was probably my favorite of the two, but I really liked Leila too and understood why she acted how she did. The audio was done VERY well, and I really enjoyed hearing how the names/places were properly pronounced. I think the narrator did a fantastic job.
I think this YA novel is great for anyone who enjoys a multi- cultural action-packed adventure where family and community are important.
October 3, 2024
Rating: 2.5 stars
I fell between feeling like this was an OK read and enjoying some parts of it.
Pros: I enjoyed the blended family depicted in the book, which included a mix of Argentinian and Iranian parents, cultures, and home life.
Cons: I felt like the characters were very one-dimensional, even after they had their "growth" throughout the plot of the book. I am also skeptical about the resolution of the book.
Neutrals: this is a YA book that would work for a younger audience, mainly tweens and teens.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I fell between feeling like this was an OK read and enjoying some parts of it.
Pros: I enjoyed the blended family depicted in the book, which included a mix of Argentinian and Iranian parents, cultures, and home life.
Cons: I felt like the characters were very one-dimensional, even after they had their "growth" throughout the plot of the book. I am also skeptical about the resolution of the book.
Neutrals: this is a YA book that would work for a younger audience, mainly tweens and teens.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2024
As an Iranian-American, I want my future kids to read this book. It is a beautiful coming of age story written from the point of view of twin sisters Leila and Bianca. They are half Iranian, half Argentinian and living in a small rural town in Virginia. The two of them could not be more different from each other at the start of the story, but over the course of their djinn-fighting adventures, they learn that maybe they aren’t so different after all. While they pick up magical powers to keep their small town, friends, and family safe, they also find that their greatest power is sisterly love. A great YA adventure for anyone who has felt different and is trying to find their place. Thank you so much to Lee and Low, Hear Our Voices tours, and Olivia Abtahi for the gifted ARC and finished copy of this beautiful and magical book.
September 26, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley, for this audiobook. It was a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, culture, magic, and love. The narrator did a fantastic job capturing the unique voices of the characters, making them feel even more alive.
The Argentinian and Iranian heritage makes the twins unique and adds a splash of culture. Bianca and Leila are so different, yet they go through the same doubts about their future, love life, and identity. They seem like normal teenagers until their connection to the djinn comes to life. Abtahi weaves elements of Middle Eastern mythology into a modern-day context, giving the story both a magical and contemporary feel.
The pacing of the audiobook is excellent, making it easy to listen to. I highly recommend it for fans of young adult fantasy
The Argentinian and Iranian heritage makes the twins unique and adds a splash of culture. Bianca and Leila are so different, yet they go through the same doubts about their future, love life, and identity. They seem like normal teenagers until their connection to the djinn comes to life. Abtahi weaves elements of Middle Eastern mythology into a modern-day context, giving the story both a magical and contemporary feel.
The pacing of the audiobook is excellent, making it easy to listen to. I highly recommend it for fans of young adult fantasy
November 10, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and RBMedia for sending me an early copy of this audiobook! All opinions are my own!
If you've been looking for a diverse fantasy, this might just be the book for you! It definitely feels more middle grade than YA, but I think that aspect is perfect for the storyline of sisterly love and the way this book is truly a coming of age tale. It takes two strong young women and teaches them that what they think they want isn't always what is best for them or what their future selves will prioritize. It takes two sisters who feel more like strangers and shows them the power of blood and the gift of family.
It's a great, quick read that will make you think about life and family and love all while giving you an exciting fantasy journey to go on!
If you've been looking for a diverse fantasy, this might just be the book for you! It definitely feels more middle grade than YA, but I think that aspect is perfect for the storyline of sisterly love and the way this book is truly a coming of age tale. It takes two strong young women and teaches them that what they think they want isn't always what is best for them or what their future selves will prioritize. It takes two sisters who feel more like strangers and shows them the power of blood and the gift of family.
It's a great, quick read that will make you think about life and family and love all while giving you an exciting fantasy journey to go on!
September 14, 2024
I'm glad I got to read this book. I don't usually stumble upon stories featuring mixed latinx characters. And while I did enjoy the story as a whole, there are elements that I still cock my head at. Perhaps it's because I'm older and grew up with stories of how hard my parents' lives were before they immigrated (and even after), but I felt like the feelings of the twins after the Revelation was a bit...childish? annoying? haha
But (to me) to be mad at someone for trying to escape war feels so insensitive. And this didn't feel entirely resolved even after the timeskip. Which, QUESTIONS. I have Questions. But overall, it was a quick and easy read with fire powers, sisterhood, and family
But (to me) to be mad at someone for trying to escape war feels so insensitive. And this didn't feel entirely resolved even after the timeskip. Which, QUESTIONS. I have Questions. But overall, it was a quick and easy read with fire powers, sisterhood, and family
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