Island of a Thousand Mirrors by Nayomi Munaweera | Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5)

“When a bone breaks, it heals stronger in the cracks. I realize this is what is happening to her heart.”

From 2014. As a note, this novel was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for a review. This does not effect my opinions in any way. Island of a Thousand Mirrors in one word? Heartbreaking. It is not something to read if you are light of heart and do not think you can handle it. And although I didn't know much of the subject/location before reading it, I walked away with a better understand and knowledge of the violence and happenings in this part of the world. Sri Lanka has quite the history, it will leave you reeling for days after you learn of the events that took place.

It's all written very sharp and there are many things that could be triggering. It's as beautifully written as the story itself is tragic and shocking. Violence against women, the struggles and horror of it all; the cruelty of many. It isn't exactly an easy read to take in and at times you need to walk away and contemplate all that you've learned. The detailing is incredible and informative and done at a pace that is easy to follow but still hard to read due to the horrifying nature of it all.

Honestly, I found my heart breaking on more than one occasion the more I read and learned. This is what makes the novel itself a gift. Everything about it was captured in a breathtaking manner. It's a difficult feeling to describe, but it's source is one that is easy to pinpoint: when an author explores the truth and tragedy of the world, and opens your eyes, you know that you've found an excellent read.


Island of a Thousand Mirrors is an excellent one that shines a light on parts of history that many, perhaps, do not know about. It carries on a story that keeps a grip on you and doesn't let you go for days to come. It's one of the most emotional, difficult reads I've picked up in many, many years.

There's an excellence in the way that the author portrays different sides, she remains unbiased and truthful and it's just the perfect example of what literature should be when it comes to portraying certain events. It's a series of voices that needs to be heard and is done in all the right ways. And even through all the horrific events, all the loss, the way the story ends is hopeful and realistic to the world around us.

I applaud the author for this novel. It was well worth the read.