all the books i’ve read recently

**Persian Culture and Identity: A Love Letter to "The Star-Touched Queen"**

I recently finished reading "The Star-Touched Queen" by Roshani Chokshi, and I must say that it was a truly unforgettable experience. One of the aspects of this book that resonated with me the most was its exploration of Persian culture and identity. The author's use of Farsi terminology, such as "fargilisi," which is a mix of Farsi and English, added to the authenticity of the novel. It reminded me of my own experiences growing up in a multicultural family where we would often speak in a blend of languages.

As I read through the book, I was struck by the way Chokshi wove together Persian mythology and culture with modern-day themes of identity, mental health, and family dynamics. The protagonist, Maya, is an Indian princess who is married to the prince of a mythical kingdom inspired by ancient India and Persia. Throughout the novel, Chokshi explores the complexities of cultural heritage and how it shapes our identities.

One of the aspects that I found particularly compelling was the way the book tackled mental health, specifically depression. Darius, Maya's husband, struggles with depression, and Chokshi handles this topic with sensitivity and nuance. The author also sheds light on how Iranian people understand mental illness, or lack thereof, which added depth to the narrative.

As I read through the book, I found myself reflecting on my own experiences growing up in a Persian-American household. The way Maya's grandparents spoke to her, as well as her aunts and uncles, reminded me of my own interactions with family members who would often use a mix of Farsi and English. It was like reading about my own life.

The book is also significant because it coincided with the Persian New Year, which I celebrated with my grandmother. Reading "The Star-Touched Queen" during this time felt especially meaningful, as if the author had captured the essence of our culture in a way that resonated deeply with me.

Overall, I would highly recommend "The Star-Touched Queen" to anyone who loves fantasy, romance, or cultural explorations. Chokshi's writing is lush and evocative, and her use of Persian language and mythology adds a richness to the narrative that is hard to find in many other books. Whether you're interested in Persian culture, mental health, or just great storytelling, this book has something for everyone.

**Reading Wrap-Up**

As I finish up my reading wrap-up for the year, I'm excited to share my thoughts on all the books I've read so far. "The Star-Touched Queen" was one of my favorites, and I'm thrilled to say that it's going straight onto my list of all-time favorite reads.

Currently, I'm listening to the audiobook version of "The Gilded Wolves" by Roshani Chokshi, and I must say that I'm absolutely loving it. The author has a way with words that is both engaging and immersive, and I find myself completely absorbed in the world she's created. With only about an hour and a half left to go, I can already tell that this book is going to be a five-star read.

I've been fortunate enough to thoroughly enjoy every single book I've read so far this year, and I'm excited to continue on this trend of discovering new authors and titles that I truly love. While I may not be able to commit to monthly reading wrap-ups, I do plan to share my thoughts and updates on the books I'm reading here on the blog. Stay tuned!

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