Sairish Hussain's debut novel is an emotional and utterly compelling tale of one Northern, British Muslim family and their trials and tribulations. In reading Hussain's authors note, I was struck by her statement about how this book was written by her drive to see better Muslim representation in fiction. However this is not a book about them being Muslim, they are Muslim, but this is about their family story. This comes through so strongly in the book as it's a book about the bonds and connections of family. The relationship between Amjaad and his two children Zahra and Saahil after the death of his wife when Zahra is born. And then how events following Saahil finishing University change the family again for years to come.

I absolutely loved the fact that this book focused on the life of Northern, working class, Muslim family and reflected the Yorkshire of my own upbringing. I really connected with setting and the backdrop of the story as some of the experiences really resonated with me.

For me though, it was Zahra and Saahil who absolutely stole my heart. I completely understand why everyone says you will fly through this 500 page book. It is an absolute page turner and after the first couple of hundred pages I could not put it down. I was desperate to unravel their story and see how it ended. It will absolutely tug on your heart strings and I cried at the end, but it is honestly such a beautiful book.

Zahra for me was such a fiery character, she became so head-strong and I saw something of myself in her. A girl wanting to challenge the world. I loved her spirit and her love for her family. Then Saahil, I do not even know where to begin. My heart continued to break for Saahil over this book and Ehsan his best friend and I have so many feelings I can't share without spoilers.

This book was a sublime read and it captured by heart entirely. Absolutely get your tissues ready as you will need them. Thank you @reads.and.reveries for making me add this to my shelf and thank you to @minaal.reads for finally getting me to pick it up!