The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali

A Five-Star Book Review

The Lion Women of Tehran has taken Bookstagram by storm this summer, and for good reason. This historical literary fiction novel is a gorgeous look at friendship, growing up, and the choices we make. It’s easily one of my top books for 2024.

Summary of The Lion Women of Tehran (No Spoilers)

In 1950s Tehran, seven-year-old Ellie lives a privileged life until her father’s death forces her and her mother to live in a poor district that is “undesirable” according to her mother. Lonely and burdened by her mother’s complaints, Ellie befriends Homa, a girl with a light, effervescent spirit who brings joy and companionship into Ellie’s life. Together, they explore the vibrant streets of Tehran, dreaming of becoming “lion women,” women who are fierce, strong, and feared—women who can achieve anything.

But eventually Ellie returns to her former riches and becomes a popular student at an elite school, gradually forgetting Homa. Years later, Homa’s sudden return disrupts Ellie’s privileged world, and as they navigate their futures, political turmoil in Iran leads to a devastating betrayal with far-reaching consequences across decades.

Why I Loved The Lion Women of Tehran

The Lion Women of Tehran hits all the marks for me as a five-star book: historical fiction done well, great characters, and a sweeping story across time.

• The history: The Lion Women of Tehran spans six decades of Iran’s history, using Ellie’s and Homa’s experiences as fictional tie-ins to the political and social changes in their country. I Googled as I read, immersing myself in history so I could learn more.

• The friendship: Like so many friendships, Ellie and Homa complement each other perfectly—Ellie as the more solemn, rule-following good girl and Homa as the rambunctious, questioning individualist. Their personalities shine in their friendship, and you can feel the fierce love they have for each other.
• The story: Without spoiling The Lion Women of Tehran, I’ll tell you that the decades-long saga is immense and full of challenges for Ellie and Homa. Much comes from Khomeini’s emergence as ruler of the Republic of Iran in 1979 and then the war with Iraq. However, the challenges begin far earlier as Ellie and Homa determine their own values, beliefs, and actions.
• Character strength: This book is as much much about feminism and women’s strength as it is about friendship. Both Ellie and Homa are strong-willed in their own ways. As Iran changes, they react to the reversal of women’s rights in their country, choosing different ways of fighting against oppression. They are lion women.

My Final Thoughts about The Lion Women of Tehran

The Lion Women of Tehran is the historical novel I needed to read this summer. I was reminded that I don’t know enough about history but also that friendship can be a lifesaving experience. I highly recommend this book!