This book was absolutely devastating from beginning to end. I quickly grew to love both Mariam and Laila and cried for them at each misfortune and each wrong turn. It was the perfect mix of heartbreak and hope, both intertwined to create a bittersweet but raw and emotional novel. The writing was beautiful and created a narrative of feminine strength and perseverance. I especially loved the way the ending made everything truly come full circle. My only complaint is that at times, it not very evident as to what had occurred until a few pages after it did occur. Overall, however, this is one of the rare historical fiction books that I have found myself truly enjoying and becoming immersed in.