This is a modern version of Pride and Prejudice based on relationships in a Muslim community. I haven't read Pride and Prejudice myself so I won't be commenting on how close the two stories align, I will just review the book in its own right which I think it deserves as it was great and I really enjoyed it!
Jalaluddin's writing style made this a very easy and enjoyable read. Although the book was dealing with some important issues: discrimination, arranged marriages, beliefs - the book had a lighthearted feel and was a comforting, heartwarming story about families, friendships and relationships. Ayesha and Khalid's romance progressed fairly slowly but this allowed there to be some really subtle and tender moments. It also allowed us to see more into their relationships with others in their lives; there was a really interesting range of characters in the story.
Towards the end I did find that things moved a little quickly and a lot seemed to happen at once which was in contrast to how the story began. Some of the events in the latter stage of the book seemed a little unnecessary to me and perhaps a little far-fetched. I'm particularly referring to Tarek here! Nonetheless, this wasn't a massive negative for me - just a little niggle!
Overall, it was a nice story with some important themes and discussion albeit in an accessible and lighthearted manner.
Thanks to Readers First for a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Jalaluddin's writing style made this a very easy and enjoyable read. Although the book was dealing with some important issues: discrimination, arranged marriages, beliefs - the book had a lighthearted feel and was a comforting, heartwarming story about families, friendships and relationships. Ayesha and Khalid's romance progressed fairly slowly but this allowed there to be some really subtle and tender moments. It also allowed us to see more into their relationships with others in their lives; there was a really interesting range of characters in the story.
Towards the end I did find that things moved a little quickly and a lot seemed to happen at once which was in contrast to how the story began. Some of the events in the latter stage of the book seemed a little unnecessary to me and perhaps a little far-fetched. I'm particularly referring to Tarek here! Nonetheless, this wasn't a massive negative for me - just a little niggle!
Overall, it was a nice story with some important themes and discussion albeit in an accessible and lighthearted manner.
Thanks to Readers First for a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.