There were good bits and disappointing bits about this novel. I loved the sense of place, the palaces and forests and hidden passageways. The fairytale elements were beautifull interwoven. But I never really felt what the characters were feeling - Bashardoust told us a lot, instead of showed us - that creative writing classic, which does make such a difference. The plot felt quite forced in a few places, too, and the metaphor of

Spoiler

transforming into a beast,

for being your 'true self' a little too obvious. But still an enjoyable read.