Mad Sisters of Esi by Tashan Mehta is a beautifully complex, emotionally resonant novel that blends elements of speculative fiction, fantasy, and literary storytelling. Set in a world of shifting realities and ancient magic, the novel follows Myung and Laleh, two women whose fates are deeply entwined with the mysterious "whale of babel." At the heart of the narrative is the enigmatic concept of the "mad sisters of Esi," a mythical figure whose curse affects the women of Esi. As the plot unfolds, the boundaries between reality and madness blur, forcing the characters to confront their deepest fears and desires.

The writing in Mad Sisters of Esi is deeply poetic and evocative. Mehta’s prose is lush, filled with rich metaphors, vivid imagery, and a dreamlike quality that immerses you in a world where language itself seems to bend and warp. The novel is layered, with multiple perspectives, research papers, and diary entries woven into the fabric of the story. This unconventional narrative structure can be disorienting at times, but it ultimately serves to heighten the sense of mystery and uncertainty that defines the book. While some readers may find the narrative shifts challenging or overwhelming, others will appreciate the immersive depth they add to the world-building.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its exploration of sisterhood, madness, and identity. Myung and Laleh’s relationship is the emotional core of the novel, and their bond, fraught with tension, love, and unresolved grief, feels both universal and intensely personal. The novel delves into how women navigate the expectations placed upon them, how love can be both a source of salvation and destruction, and how madness—whether literal or metaphorical—shapes the course of their lives. The theme of sisterly love and the complicated, often destructive, ways it manifests is poignant and heartbreaking, giving the story an emotional weight that lingers long after the final page.

The fantastical elements are intricate and rich, but they do not always provide easy answers. The novel’s abstract nature, with its shifting landscapes and mythical creatures, means that much is left unexplained, and it’s easy to get lost in the metaphysical elements of the plot. The surreal quality of the world Mehta creates can be both mesmerizing and frustrating. While the book invites deep reflection and analysis, it also leaves much open to interpretation. This will appeal to readers who enjoy ambiguity and are comfortable with books that demand more engagement, but it may be a barrier for those looking for a clearer, more straightforward narrative.

The pacing of Mad Sisters of Esi is deliberately slow, and while this allows for deep character exploration and an in-depth look at the world, it also means that the story can feel meandering at times. There are sections of the book that focus heavily on introspection and philosophical musings, which may slow down the action for readers who prefer a faster-paced narrative. However, for those who appreciate richly detailed world-building and character-driven plots, this slower pace can be part of the novel’s charm, drawing readers deeper into the story’s emotional and intellectual terrain.

The ending, in particular, stands out as both tragic and hopeful. It doesn’t offer all the answers, leaving some loose threads that will linger in the reader’s mind, but it feels earned. The emotional resolution of the story, particularly regarding the bond between Myung and Laleh, is poignant and impactful. The novel’s exploration of madness, the self, and the nature of love culminates in a way that is simultaneously heartbreaking and cathartic.

In terms of overall enjoyment, I would give Mad Sisters of Esi 4 stars. Its beautifully poetic writing, emotional depth, and complex themes will appeal to readers who appreciate high-concept fantasy and literary fiction. The novel’s abstract nature and unconventional narrative structure might not be to everyone’s taste, and its slow pacing may be a drawback for those seeking a faster-paced adventure. However, for those willing to embrace its complexity and immerse themselves in the world of Esi, it offers a deeply thought-provoking and emotionally rich reading experience that is worth the journey.

Thank you Tashan Mehta, DAW and Netgalley for this free ARC in exchange for a review.

This novel does have a bit of enjoyable whimsy to it.

Unfortunately, as the story was padded with abstract prose and lacked good characterization and direction, it didn’t hold my attention, so I didn’t finish it.