I love arab mythology and so when I saw this was inspired by it, I ran to get an arc. Sadly, something about the story didn't click with me and it took me a very, very long time to complete this book. I don't believe it was the book itself that was the issue, I think it was a matter of the characters and the setting not clicking with me personally. There was a good half of the book where I was just trying to catch up to the setting and learn about the characters, and that I feel was the most difficult part to get through. The second half of the book was noticeably better, but by that point my head was too heavy with everything I learned in the first half, and I skimmed through a good part of the last 50%. Overall, 3 stars, as I can see the potential, and hopefully now that we have the knowledge we need of the world the rest of the series will be easier to get through.

This is a dark new fantasy debut. Roma and Levi and introduced and they have both been through things and are kind of coming to grips with all that entails throughout this book. There is a list of trigger warnings so I would advise all to read that before diving into this book. It was beautifully written and addressed real world things throughout. I definitely recommend this to anyone who doesn’t scare easily and who appreciates a dark and gripping fantasy.

The Descent of the Drowned was a surprise for me. Going into it, I expected a more fantasy-driven story of gods and monsters, and while it is that, it is considerably darker than I originally anticipated. It should probably have trigger warnings for suicide, rape, and abuse among others, and I don't know that I would characterize it as Teen/YA. I would definitely hesitate before giving it to a teen. That is not to say that teens and young adults shouldn't read this, but make sure they are ready for it.

Additionally, it took me about a quarter of the book to really get into it. I found the characters to be really engaging and they had a wonderful depth and humanity to them. I was thrown in the beginning a little by trying to sort out unfamiliar terms and the relationships between people based on the cultural conventions I was previously unfamiliar with. The appendix with some explanations at the end of the book was extremely helpful (though I wish it had been at the beginning, since I didn't know it was there for quite a while). Once I had educated myself a little more and gotten into it, I didn't have any more trouble following, and was fully immersed in the world.

I love books that are realistic, but blend an element of magic or the paranormal seamlessly into it. This book did that beautifully. I loved how each character grew and changed, and how the story became more and more complex and mythological as it went. I also loved how seamlessly the cultural mythology was blended into everything. I highly recommend this book and eagerly await more from Ana Lal Din.

3.5 stars

I think the setting of this world was done so beautifully, as the aesthetic was genuinely attention-capturing.
While I did enjoy the characters, I found that they did irritate me with some choices that didn't feel true to the character but more to move along the plot.

This was surprisingly so good and well thought out, wow. The writing, the characters. I was on the edge of my seat. Much more interested in Romas POV though!

Pros and cons
Pros
- Spreads awareness and deals with heavy themes in a good way
- Morally grey multiple pov characters that both deal with trauma and mental and physical abuse and struggles which makes them real. Roma is a really brave complex character and as the story progressed I started to admire her so much and my heart cried for her. I also love Levi and his poor morally grey storyline. I like how he struggles and questions who he wants to be and what he wants to do.
- The two main characters have a lot of chemistry. Note – there isn’t romance in this book but there is chemistry between these two and I feel like in the next book this will be such a good slow-burn romance.
- The ending, I was shocked and I need the next book now but I have to wait so long * sobbing * the only curse of having an arc. The last chapters were really good and action-packed.

cons
- the plot - I did struggle with the plot, the plot in most of the book is really slow and I felt like in the first 50 % there was no plot just horrible scenes happening to the characters but not really a clue where the actual plot went. When I found a plot at 50 % I was like WOW shock this does have an actual plot. the awareness and characters were good but I didn't find myself being bored and felt like it dragged and was still in the introduction chapter even tho we were already 50 % in the book so yeah.
- the magic system - the magic system in this book is hella confusing. My peanut brain could not handle it. I still don't get it. It's just weird and doesn't make sense and I just don't get it. I saw some other people mentioning the same about it. I just feel like it has not been made clear which made it confusing to follow and my brains were making over hours trying to figure this shit out.
- no real romance - I am a huge romance person so I was a little bit disappointed there isn't romance but I did see the chemistry for the hopefully upcoming romance so that was good.

Overall this book is something that you have to be in the mood for as it is really heavy but it is done in a really good way.

I was a little confused in the beginning. There are a slew of characters introduced quickly and I had a hard time keeping track of everyone. The focus on the characterization of the two MCs allowed me to know them and even connect with them at times, but I often wondered where the story was going. Roma is often jetting from one place to another, making it challenging to understand the lay of the land and the distances they are from each other. It does, however, allow readers to understand the current state of the world. After wondering when events described in the blurb would occur–it happens about two-thirds of the way– I eventually concluded the book was an introduction. There are promises about what is to come, and I am looking forward to some of them.

It does well as an introduction, putting forth a firm foundation for the books that may follow, but individuals might be disappointed if they are hoping for more to happen. Additionally, it’s important to note this is a heavy read. The oppression and mistreatment of women, especially those belonging to a lower caste, are significant themes. I was taken aback by some of the events mentioned and/or alluded to, but they contribute greatly to molding Roma into who she is hinted to eventually become. I look forward to Roma’s eventual rise (3.5 stars rounded to 4 stars)

"The Descent of the Drowned" by Ana Lal Din is an exquisite and haunting debut novel that sweeps readers into a richly imagined world of secrets, sacrifice, and the power of personal transformation. With its beautifully crafted prose and deeply empathetic characters, this book is a true gem that leaves a lasting impact.

Set in a fictional kingdom inspired by ancient Arabia, the story follows Talia, a young woman burdened by guilt and haunted by the tragic death of her mother. Amidst the rigid social hierarchy and religious tensions of her society, Talia embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her mother's demise and seeks to reconcile her own identity in the process.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in the author's ability to create a vivid and immersive setting. Through her evocative descriptions and attention to detail, Ana Lal Din transports readers to a world filled with bustling marketplaces, lush palaces, and sprawling deserts. The cultural nuances and traditions woven throughout the narrative add depth and authenticity, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Din's characters are complex and multi-dimensional, their struggles and triumphs resonating deeply with readers. Talia, in particular, is a remarkable protagonist whose journey of self-discovery is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her resilience, courage, and unwavering determination make her a relatable and compelling heroine.

Furthermore, "The Descent of the Drowned" tackles important themes such as identity, religion, and societal expectations with grace and sensitivity. The exploration of faith and the juxtaposition of tradition and personal freedom are expertly woven into the narrative, provoking thought and inviting introspection.

The pacing of the story is masterfully executed, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end. The plot twists and turns with unexpected revelations, keeping us guessing and eager to uncover the next piece of the puzzle. The emotional depth of the book is amplified by the author's ability to seamlessly blend heart-wrenching moments with tender scenes of love and friendship.

(i received an e-arc from the publisher and netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)

this book did not quite capture me as i expected it to.

The book was okay but not great. A lot was happening but I just couldn't get into this book. It lacked world building and the characters were just so bland and not really interesting.

Overall, this is a great and enjoyable story about freedom, justice, empowering, identities all in a so different culture than mine and the mainstream ones. I read it on one siting!!!

I totally recommend reading and I will definitely be reading more about this author.
Another thing to have on mind… Don’t you think that the cover is just amazing? I know we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but… just look at it!

I received a arc copy of this book from net Galley. Thank you NetGalley, (thank you White Tigress Press). All thoughts and opinions are my own after finishing this book.

This book was a wild and twisty ride I greatly appreciated the idea of someone being enslaved to a goddess following the children of tyrannical immortals. I enjoyed the different approach and the Indo Persian setting of the novel and exploring different types of folk law the writing and the characters were well-rounded however the pacing and the beginning of the book were slightly confusing 2 follow and that's almost considered abandoning the book but it was worth Perseverance with.

When I first read the premise of The Descent of the Drowned, I was immediately intrigued. A book set in a colonized Indo-Persian world and inspired by pre-Islamic Arabian mythology? Please give it to me now. The inspiration of arabian mythology is something i find fascinating, but the world-building in this is soooo confusing and assumes the reader is already familiar with indo-persian culture and folklore (which i am not). it got to the point where i completely gave up on trying to understand the world-building and just focused on the plot. there is so much great representation and inherent positives about this story, I know that with some work this series could be great!

Great concept. I did not connect with the characters and the plot was difficult to get into and stay with.

Sadly this was a story I wasn't able to click with, I really, really wanted to but just wasn't able to. The worldbuilding and character are fine but nothing to write home about. If the book sounds like something someone would like i'll recommend it but I would not read it again.

I’m not the biggest fan of overly descriptive language, I generally focus more on the action, story and characterisation. The premise of this story excited me but unfortunately there was too much description for me.

Did not finish. After reading other reviews I realize that the content of this book is not for me. I apologize that i cannot review this novel any further.

This book is definitely a league of it's own. The Indo-Persian setting is not something common in stories even now, so to have that kind of setting in a story as brilliant as this is a bonus.

This book has everything - an interesting plot, compelling characters, and great writing. I absolutely loved everything about this.

The characters were very well rounded and though I don't agree with all their actions, I can understand their motivations, which is what makes them stand out. Even when I don't agree with them, I can sympathize.

The plot is very engaging and keeps you hooked throughout. I loved all the social commentary included in the plot and how this affected the characters and the story as a whole. The author didn't shy away from the evils of society and it was done very well, shaping characters and furthering plot, which I loved.

The book was definitely one of my best reads for the year and I'm highly anticipating the sequel!

This novel sounded intriguing! However, I was very confused by the storyline! There were also many disturbing scenes that made me uncomfortable. Thus, this book was not for me.

The world building had me a little confused throughout this book. I wanted to love this book so much and I did really root for the characters (check trigger warnings! They go through a lot!) But I found I was confused too much to thoroughly enjoy it. I might do a reread and see if that helps!