Personal Review:

I’ve read A Time to Die twice now, and, admittedly, both times I struggled to be invested in the story until I had reached around page 150. But in retrospect, I think the reason is twofold. Parvin and I are a lot alike, but in the first book at least, I don’t think we’d be friends. Her faults often reflect mine, and I tend to be annoyed by the aspects of her character that annoy me about myself (does that make any sense?).

Additionally, I’m not sure that there’s a definite turning point in her character. Yes, there’s an inciting incident that sparks her internal change, but the improvements are little by little, which makes them all the more lifelike. Her character development is slow, but by the end of this first book, I was reminded why this series made my favorites list.

Speaking of characters, I also loved the development and detail put into the minor characters. Having read the series before, I can’t wait to see what extra traits and hints I pick up about the minor and major characters this time through!

The action scenes are captivating and difficult to turn away from. Parvin’s plights are internal as often as external, and her internal struggles are seen even in external situations. Which leads me to my next point…

That the novel is written in first-person present tense was a little jarring for me in the beginning. It takes a bit of getting used to, but the insights into Parvin’s train of thought, prayers, and choices are well worth it.

This story addresses themes that one wouldn’t often find in YA literature. Parvin’s struggle with how to spend her time well and live a fulfilling life is something that I think a lot of teenagers wrestle with. However, one would be more likely to find a novel about a heroine discovering inner beauty, fierce strength, or something culturally relevant or praised by our era. That alone lends this series depth not found in many YA books.

I could discuss the merits (and even the few characteristics I didn’t like as much) for much longer, but I’ll end this review for now. I’d recommend this book for ages 13 and up because of a couple violent scenes, but tweens might also enjoy it.

Content Review:

Language – None!

Sexual – A man has multiple wives, but it’s clear that his actions are wrong.

Violence:

– Some minor descriptions of blood and wounds

– *Minor spoiler!!!* A character’s hand gets chopped off. *Minor spoiler over!*

Spiritual:

– Parvin prays and honestly discusses her relationship with God.

Other – None to my memory!

Themes:

Truth, purpose, God’s will, faith, love, family, time

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