The Lion Women of Tehran

Set in 1950s Tehran, the story follows Ellie, a young girl who is forced to leave her comfortable life after her father's sudden death and move into a small apartment with her mother. Lonely and longing for companionship, Ellie befriends Homa, a spirited and kind girl, and the two share adventures, dreams, and a deep bond. But when Ellie’s mother secures a return to their former privileged life, Ellie drifts away from Homa as she becomes popular in a prestigious school. Years later, Homa’s unexpected reappearance in Ellie’s life sparks a chain of events that will change both their futures, as political unrest in Iran intensifies and a betrayal alters their lives in profound ways. *** I was sitting at a 3 star rating until the last few chapters & epilogue, which added the extra half star. Although I might have been able to predict the ending, I don't think I'm fully satisfied with how it ended. It made sense, but I was left with such a feeling of sadness - mainly for the time lost between friends.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book!

The book had a little bit of a slow start for me, but once it picked up it really picked up. You felt the motivations and flaws of the characters deeply and it was so unique and interesting in terms of perspective. Especially the main characters jealousy as a defining feature. I had never been aware of exactly how much political turmoil and injustice was happening in Iran (other than that as an American citizen I probably shouldn’t visit), so it was very enlightening to read. The author expertly wove real life events into the narratives of powerful women in Iran and it felt so real, raw, and complicated. There were parts of the book where I was really emotional as I’d gotten attached to the characters.

I’m also a sucker for books where we get a glimpse into the normal day of other cultures and I really appreciated the food and housing descriptions that she crafted were beautiful. I can’t vouch that they are real as I’ve never been to Iran, but it certainly felt real to me. I truly hope Persian women can find peace and equality in the future and will likely seek out more books that highlight the conflict going on in that region.

5/5 for masterful handling of a really complex issue that centers around strong women.

This was an amazing book. About friendship. And betrayal. Of history. And contemporary times. Of finding one’s destiny and meaning, in a sea of uncertainly. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and learning more about what happened through the turnover from the Shah’s kingdom in the late 1970’s. But mostly, about the relationship between Ellie and Homa, and the choices they made as they entered young womanhood. A rare story of characters finding happiness and purpose, through many bumps in the road. It’s a ‘10’ for me!

A coming of age story about two childhood best friends from different backgrounds in 1950s Iran. Each forging their own futures due to unimaginable circumstances. One unable to stop fighting for the country she wants as a women's rights activist throughout her life. An amazing story of friendship, forgiveness, fortitude and bravery. May we all be lionesses in our own way.

Fascinating novel about the rise of feminism in Iran and the governments that attempted to squelch them. The novel uses two women as the protagonists against the backdrop of long term friendship and political unrest.