2019 is off to SUCH A GREAT START UGH!

This book was incredible. It’s a slow burn, beautifully written family drama type novel that I’ve loved from authors like Celeste Ng, and I absolutely ate it up.

Mirza’s writing is GORGEOUS. I marked it up when I could, but there were so many moments I was itching for a pen when I didn’t have one, if only to underline a few sentences. Her writing is atmospheric and immersive but reflective as well, forcing us as readers to question any conclusions we’ve made about the story. The structure of the book—beginning at the eldest daughter’s, Hadia’s, wedding and then moving back in time through a series of fragmented flashbacks over the past 20 years—is excellently done but not confusing. Getting to see some incidents through the eyes of multiple characters—quiet Layla, smart, docile Haida, fiery Amar—forces us to ask questions about how our actions are interpreted by others, the ripple effects we have in the world.
Overall just a beautifully crafted, beautifully written book with such a beautiful story.