December Book Club

It’s December! It’s holidays! It’s Christmas! That means it’s also time for QBD’s annual ‘Book of the Year’ announcement. This year, it goes to a striking and heartfelt debut novel by author Kiyash Monsef, who spent nine years writing and refining his tale of mythical creatures and magical worlds.

Once There Was

In the captivating debut novel "Once There Was" by Kiyash Monsef, readers are introduced to Marjan, an Iranian-American teenager who discovers that her father was secretly a veterinarian to magical creatures. Set in the wake of her father's sudden death, Marjan must grapple with grief, navigate the complexities of her Iranian heritage, and take up her father's mantle as the guardian of a hidden world teeming with fantastical beasts.

Monsef masterfully weaves elements of Persian mythology, traditional folklore, and contemporary urban fantasy to create a vivid and immersive world. Readers are transported to a realm where mythical creatures like djinn, shapeshifters, and griffins coexist with humans, hidden from plain sight. The novel's setting in Los Angeles adds a layer of intrigue, as the juxtaposition of the ordinary and the extraordinary creates a sense of wonder and suspense.

At the heart of the story is Marjan's journey of self-discovery as she comes to terms with her father's secret life and her own newfound role as a protector of magical creatures. Along the way, she must confront her fears, challenge her preconceptions, and learn to embrace the magic that runs through her veins.

Monsef's writing is both captivating and thought-provoking, exploring themes of grief, identity, and the power of found family. Marjan's relationships with her supportive friends, her eccentric mentor, and a mysterious shapeshifter add depth and complexity to the narrative.

"Once There Was" is a captivating and heartwarming story that will appeal to readers of all ages, especially those who enjoy fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age tales. Monsef's debut novel is a refreshing and imaginative take on the urban fantasy genre, showcasing the power of storytelling and the enduring strength of family bonds.