Love From A to Z is a good book. The protagonists are complex, and their story is furthered by equally well-rounded side characters. It was interesting to read a story set in Qatar, as that was a first for me. The familial and platonic dynamics are brilliant and emotional in all the right ways. There are so many important, relevant themes woven into the narrative, and it’s all told through diary entries. Very unique.

The problem? As much as I liked Zayneb and Adam, I was bored. I just wasn’t invested in the story. It seemed really slow. Maybe it’s my fault for picking this up right after reading a thriller. Maybe I would’ve loved it had I read it next week or next month. I don’t know.

At the beginning of the book, it says, ”This is a love story. You’ve been warned.” And while that’s true, this is a love story, said love took longer than I expected to develop. By the time it happened, the story was nearly over. And while the little epilogue was satisfying, it didn’t feel like enough to properly wrap everything up.

I definitely think this is a me problem, not a book problem. I wish I’d enjoyed this more. I’m not sure if I’ll read more from Ali in the future, personally, but I recommend this novel to all who can handle the content.

Representation:
• Zayneb & Adam are Muslim, as are some side characters & family members
• Zayneb is Pakistani & West Indian
• Adam is Chinese-Canadian & has multiple sclerosis
• multiple side characters of color

CW: Islamophobia, death of family members (one prior to story, both off-page), grief, discussion of war