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breeoxd's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I was about halfway through this book before I realized I've never read anything about Lebanon before! Everything I've read about the Middle East has been Afghanistan or Pakistan. I know nothing about the Paris of the East! Beyond that, I don't think I've read any Eastern books from women's viewpoints. I think that was most surprising- how female-centric this family saga was.
Content Warnings
Graphic: War, Lesbophobia, Islamophobia, Violence, and Murder
Minor: Body shaming, Abortion, Misogyny, Colonisation, and Classism
samisal's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book floored me. It is such a brilliantly crafted, clever story and it captures you from the start. I read this book faster than I remember reading anything in years. Hala Alyan captures Arab family dynamics in so many perfect personal details but nothing about this story feels predictable and the secrets this family contains are delicately arranged throughout the story. It is an emotional but loving read that really breaks these characters and relationships down in a beautiful way. I particularly loved the reflections in Mazna's chapters, the love and care that Alyan gives to a complicated woman experiencing so many of the damaging dynamics of Arab-American motherhood and womanhood. I love the narratives this book allows our community to explore, I love the writing, which is so clever and funny and sad, and I love this book from cover to cover.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity, Grief, Homophobia, and Hate crime
Moderate: Abortion, War, and Drug use
Minor: Death of parent and Body shaming
bookedbymadeline's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I loved this book! The complex look at family and sibling relationships drew me in and made me feel part of these characters lives. My heart was aching and I cried a few times throughout the novel as I got to know these people. The ending felt perfect but I’m definitely going to have a book hangover.
The story makes me want to learn more about Lebanon and the conflicts discussed throughout the book. Also enjoyed the switching POVs and timelines to get an in depth look at each character. Will definitely be reading more of Alyan’s novels!! Highly highly recommend.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. All the opinions above are my own.
The story makes me want to learn more about Lebanon and the conflicts discussed throughout the book. Also enjoyed the switching POVs and timelines to get an in depth look at each character. Will definitely be reading more of Alyan’s novels!! Highly highly recommend.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. All the opinions above are my own.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug use, Grief, Infidelity, Sexual content, Violence, and Xenophobia
Moderate: Abortion, Body shaming, Fatphobia, Homophobia, Physical abuse, Racism, Sexual assault, and Toxic relationship
Minor: Chronic illness and Gun violence
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