A review by nikspandya
We Free the Stars by Hafsah Faizal

adventurous emotional hopeful 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

4.75

First and foremost I just gotta get this outta the way - the storytelling was lacking in the second book. There were many characters that just faded out or plot points I don’t think were fully thought through. My biggest critique is that Altair’s POV didn’t serve him at all, and it was a shame 🤧…moving on…

My absolutely favorite thing about this duology is the display of non-romantic love but like…make it romantic? The zumra has a soul bond? Like they love each other so much it’s maddening? 

The first time we see it is with Zafira and Yasmine as Yas gets married, how Zafira mourns it as a loss but tries to stay happy for her (history will rmbr them as best friends). We see it again in Altair’s actions towards Nasir in Sharr. We see it openly and proudly when Kifah says it about Altair without restrain, “I love him, yes. Fiercely. I’m beginning to love our zumra.” And when Altair later on lets Kifah know he sees her and wants her by his side. Over and over we are doused with Passionate, Big, All Consuming, I Didn’t Lose Myself In You, I Found Myself In You, Love™. For a group that chose their family! God it’s so freakin sticky sweet I could kiss them! (platonic)
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