The author was written a compelling narrative about the complexities of family, societal, and generational expectations and how those internal motivations color perception. Each character is portrayed realistically, and none--quite frankly--is particularly sympathetic, but Mahloudji does an outstanding job conveying the forces that have shaped each character so we have perspective on the WHY behind their beliefs and behavior. I most enjoyed the creative elements related to cultural traditions and norms I am an outsider to. There were moments the story felt ponderous, but you become so drawn into the story so learn the outcome of events, it is worth wading through some of the laborious narrative to the gems.

I wasn't sure about the first few pages of Sanam Mahloudji's The Persians: I was thrust into the middle of a chaotic, loud, excited, messy family with warring POVs, spouts of bickering, intricate family history, and ostentatious displays of wealth. However, it took less than a chapter to suck me in fully. Mahloudji's writing brings the cast of women to life so vividly that you can picture them snipping at each other in the back of cabs or over a game of cards like they're sitting on either side of you. Weaving a tale from New York to Iran and back again, from present day to past decades, from one generation to another to another, the book does an excellent job keeping the pace fast and the story moving. It's an impressive feat for Mahloudji, who has high ambitions in this chaotic and unruly story, but whose ambitions are matched by her talent in story-telling and character development. I was hooked on these women from start to end. I can't wait to read what she writes next!

The Persians is a fascinating look at one prominent (or formerly prominent) family through five of its women. Each chapter brings us a different point of view and glimpse at the lives of Elizabeth (the matriarch with a few secrets), her daughters Seema and Shirin, and granddaughters Bita and Niaz. There is a lot of humor, but also tragedy woven throughout the pages. Overall, I found this to be an unusual and entertaining read and loved learning more about the women of the Valiat family.

Thank you to Scribner and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.