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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
In Sisters Arcana, Saleema Ishq crafts a gripping tale filled with mysticism, intuition, and family bonds. The story begins with a chilling prologue that sets a mysterious tone, immediately capturing the reader’s attention. The novel follows Aisha Wren, a mathematical modeler whose structured life is upended by the arrival of an eerie tarot card and a visit from her estranged sister, Lulu, a popular spiritual Instagram influencer. Through Ishq’s vivid storytelling, readers are immersed in Aisha’s internal struggle between logic and the unknown as forces beyond her control transform her life.
The richly developed characters and their relationships are central to the narrative. Aisha’s dynamic with her sister, Lulu, is touching and complex, reflecting the power of sibling bonds despite years of separation. Saleema Ishq weaves these emotional themes with elements of magical realism, drawing on symbolism like tarot cards and spiritual practices to add layers of depth and intrigue. The setting of a peaceful home office turned chaotic by unexpected visitors and mystical signs is a perfect backdrop for Aisha’s transformation. The worldbuilding is done exceptionally well and perfectly weaves together the story’s elements. The recurring motif of hummingbirds adds beauty and grace surrounding the unfolding tension. Sisters Arcana blends suspense, emotional depth, and magical realism. Ishq skillfully balances character development with a captivating plot, making this novel an engaging read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers with underlying themes of self-discovery, family, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. Ishq includes a code for a bonus chapter, which is a nice addition to the storyline.
