What do you think?
Rate this book
Salaam, with Love
This heartfelt and humorous YA contemporary follows Dua, who spends the month of Ramadan making unexpected discoveries about family, faith, and first love.
Being crammed into a house in Queens with her cousins is not how Dua envisions her trip to New York City. But here she is, spending the holy month of Ramadan with extended family she hasn’t seen in years.
Dua struggles to find her place in the conservative household and to connect with her aloof, engaged-to-be-married cousin, Mahnoor. And as if fasting the whole day wasn’t tiring enough, she must battle her hormones whenever she sees Hassan, the cute drummer in a Muslim band who has a habit of showing up at her most awkward moments.
After just a month, Dua is surprised to find that she’s learning a lot more than she bargained for about her faith, relationships, her place in the world—and cute drummers. . . .
Underlined is a line of totally addictive romance, thriller, and horror paperback original titles coming to you fast and furious each month. Enjoy everything you want to read the way you want to read it.
Being crammed into a house in Queens with her cousins is not how Dua envisions her trip to New York City. But here she is, spending the holy month of Ramadan with extended family she hasn’t seen in years.
Dua struggles to find her place in the conservative household and to connect with her aloof, engaged-to-be-married cousin, Mahnoor. And as if fasting the whole day wasn’t tiring enough, she must battle her hormones whenever she sees Hassan, the cute drummer in a Muslim band who has a habit of showing up at her most awkward moments.
After just a month, Dua is surprised to find that she’s learning a lot more than she bargained for about her faith, relationships, her place in the world—and cute drummers. . . .
Underlined is a line of totally addictive romance, thriller, and horror paperback original titles coming to you fast and furious each month. Enjoy everything you want to read the way you want to read it.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 4, 2022
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 543 reviews
Read
April 10, 2023I think this is a really important book and I'm glad I read it. But, I do wish I had read it when I was younger. It's set during Ramadan and is such a heartfelt story about the main character connecting more with her faith and heritage, and a romance of course. The strength of the story for me definitely came from the Muslim representation. It was beautifully done. I loved seeing the family elements as well. They were heartwarming to read and meant a lot to me. But, the writing was hard for me to connect with as it definitely is a bit younger than I like to read at this point in my life. This is a perfect book to transition from middle grade to YA because it kind of reads like it could be either to me. And I'm not saying there's anything wrong with that, it just isn't something I connect with as much anymore. I feel officially old now LOL. The writing also had some issues with not making sense and that made the whole music plotline a bit weak for me. But overall I think this is a great read and hope to read more books set during Ramadan in the future!
April 5, 2024
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・“𝓣𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓷𝓸 𝓯𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓽 𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓼𝓽, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓷𝓸 𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓼𝓽 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓽 𝓯𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓱.”・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
➸3.75 stars
💌04/04/24
I have been eyeing this book for so long, and finally, I'm glad I read this during Ramadan. Salaam, with Love is a beautiful novel conveying all about rediscovering faith, reconnecting with family, maintaining relationships, and rediscovering yourself during Ramadan🤍✨ The Author also included dealing with Islamophobia in a Western country like the US, and how a family gets affected due to the hatred shown towards the Muslim community, calling them 'terrorists' just because they are Muslims.
ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ .・。.・゜✭・. ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ
Meet the characters📓:
Dua Sheikh, the fmc, only child of her parents, Pakistani descendant, isn't close with her relatives like her parents are. Being raised far away from my own extended family, I could relate to this so much. I'm not very close with all my cousins, or even my grandparents tbh because I'm the only one with my family living in a different country.
As a current student of a professional degree myself, I have nothing to say, the above lines speak louder enough for everyone🖤
Hassan Mousawi, the MMC, is the cute drummer boy in the band, a graphic designer, from an Arab-Lebanese household, Mahnoor's soon-to-be brother-in-law, also a hafiz (person who memorized the whole Quran), cares so much for Dua and her whole family, teaches her to recite Quran *blushing*, the perfect guy any girl can get🥰💞
Mahnoor Sheikh, is Dua's cousin, engaged to Hassan's brother Azhar, a law student, the perfect eldest daughter any parents could be proud of. At starting I felt her character was a bit cold/aloof but then when she opened up, I felt so much for her🥺❤️🩹
Mahdi Sheikh is the cutest 4-yr-old baby boy, I just want to hug him tightly and pull his cute bubbly cheeks😍💋
Haya Mousawi, bestie of Mahnoor, is the best bsf and best sil anyone can have in their life😂💓 seriously I loved it when she teased Dua so much, and also when she stood against a racist islamophobe. She has the best humor out of all the characters in this book.
ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ .・。.・゜✭・. ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ
I wish someone told the above lines to me when I was young (no, I'm not old, I'm just talking about the pre-teenager era). As someone, born and raised in an Asian-desi Muslim household, I could relate a lot with the fmc Dua Sheikh. My dad used to tell me "Being born as a Muslim and being a Muslim has a huge difference". When I read about Dua, I saw my past self in her in many aspects minus a guy like Hassan (wishing won't become true, so let's stay delulu🙃) and music, because I'm not that crazy about music y'all🙂
It is said that "the most beloved deed to God is that which is regular and constant even if it is little." One of the things I loved the most was the Ramadan Checklist made by the Sheikhslike me📝 And when Dua achieved all of them at the end, I was so proud of her 🥹🥹
The only thing that made this book not a 5-star🙁:
~Playing music in Ramadan, which is of course haram (in one chapter)
*ੈ💟‧₊˚ What to expect from this book *ੈ💟‧₊˚
✨ Arab x Desi trope
✨ Muslim Representation
✨ Islamophobia acts mentioned (on page)
✨ Reconnecting with family
✨ Drummer x pianist
✨ Cute 4 yr old who will melt your heart
I appreciate the Author so much for writing this gem. I think anyone who reads this book, even if you are a fellow Muslim, I'm sure something will light your heart when you read it, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, when we try to be a better version of ourselves. We all will learn something valuable from this book. I will recommend reading this book to any Non-Muslim readers who want to learn more about Muslims in general, and anyone who struggles with their faith, especially in the month of Ramadan. I highly recommend reading this book to my fellow Muslim readers in Ramadan to give you all the feels😃💖
❥ 𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓬𝓪𝓷𝓭𝓲𝓭 𝓶𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓼 𝓯𝓻𝓸𝓶 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴💌:
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
💌03/31/24
Deciding between whether to give this 3.5 or 4 stars😅
RTC soon (I know I say this a lot but I promise I'll put a review soon when I'm a little lazy & little busy)
💌03/26/24
I'm well aware I've like so many reviews to write...but who cares?😃 it's not going to stop me from reading more🤭 THE MOST ANTICIPATED RAMADAN TBR IS HERE!😍 heard so many good things about this bookas usual I've high expectations Hoping this lives to the hype🤞🏻💕 off to meet my new man Hassan🥰💘
Meanwhile my study books giving me *bombastic side eyes*👀
➸3.75 stars
💌04/04/24
I have been eyeing this book for so long, and finally, I'm glad I read this during Ramadan. Salaam, with Love is a beautiful novel conveying all about rediscovering faith, reconnecting with family, maintaining relationships, and rediscovering yourself during Ramadan🤍✨ The Author also included dealing with Islamophobia in a Western country like the US, and how a family gets affected due to the hatred shown towards the Muslim community, calling them 'terrorists' just because they are Muslims.
ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ .・。.・゜✭・. ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ
Meet the characters📓:
“I wasn’t close to my extended family. I was happiest at home where it was just me.”
Dua Sheikh, the fmc, only child of her parents, Pakistani descendant, isn't close with her relatives like her parents are. Being raised far away from my own extended family, I could relate to this so much. I'm not very close with all my cousins, or even my grandparents tbh because I'm the only one with my family living in a different country.
“There are only two acceptable career options in the desi world —medical doctor or engineer. Sometimes law. A professional degree is always favored, mostly for the money and job security, but also for the respect and social standing.”
As a current student of a professional degree myself, I have nothing to say, the above lines speak louder enough for everyone🖤
“But sometimes, someone else will want to look out for you. Let them.”
Hassan Mousawi, the MMC, is the cute drummer boy in the band, a graphic designer, from an Arab-Lebanese household, Mahnoor's soon-to-be brother-in-law, also a hafiz (person who memorized the whole Quran), cares so much for Dua and her whole family, teaches her to recite Quran *blushing*, the perfect guy any girl can get🥰💞
“I had this epic boy-meets-girl love story in my head; I’d never even considered marrying someone I’ve practically grown up with.”
Mahnoor Sheikh, is Dua's cousin, engaged to Hassan's brother Azhar, a law student, the perfect eldest daughter any parents could be proud of. At starting I felt her character was a bit cold/aloof but then when she opened up, I felt so much for her🥺❤️🩹
“First, I have an important question. Can I choose the wedding cake?”
Mahdi Sheikh is the cutest 4-yr-old baby boy, I just want to hug him tightly and pull his cute bubbly cheeks😍💋
“Think about it, you won’t find a better sister-in-law than me. Isn’t that right, Mahnoor?”
Haya Mousawi, bestie of Mahnoor, is the best bsf and best sil anyone can have in their life😂💓 seriously I loved it when she teased Dua so much, and also when she stood against a racist islamophobe. She has the best humor out of all the characters in this book.
ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ .・。.・゜✭・. ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ
“Ramadan is about trying, Dua. Trying to be better versions of ourselves, to nurture our faith. It’s not impossible, but it is easier if you have others to support you.”
I wish someone told the above lines to me when I was young (no, I'm not old, I'm just talking about the pre-teenager era). As someone, born and raised in an Asian-desi Muslim household, I could relate a lot with the fmc Dua Sheikh. My dad used to tell me "Being born as a Muslim and being a Muslim has a huge difference". When I read about Dua, I saw my past self in her in many aspects minus a guy like Hassan (wishing won't become true, so let's stay delulu🙃) and music, because I'm not that crazy about music y'all🙂
“Don’t wait to feel like a better Muslim—actively seek God in both good and bad times, till it becomes a habit.”
It is said that "the most beloved deed to God is that which is regular and constant even if it is little." One of the things I loved the most was the Ramadan Checklist made by the Sheikhs
The only thing that made this book not a 5-star🙁:
~Playing music in Ramadan, which is of course haram (in one chapter)
*ੈ💟‧₊˚ What to expect from this book *ੈ💟‧₊˚
✨ Arab x Desi trope
✨ Muslim Representation
✨ Islamophobia acts mentioned (on page)
✨ Reconnecting with family
✨ Drummer x pianist
✨ Cute 4 yr old who will melt your heart
I appreciate the Author so much for writing this gem. I think anyone who reads this book, even if you are a fellow Muslim, I'm sure something will light your heart when you read it, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, when we try to be a better version of ourselves. We all will learn something valuable from this book. I will recommend reading this book to any Non-Muslim readers who want to learn more about Muslims in general, and anyone who struggles with their faith, especially in the month of Ramadan. I highly recommend reading this book to my fellow Muslim readers in Ramadan to give you all the feels😃💖
❥ 𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓬𝓪𝓷𝓭𝓲𝓭 𝓶𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓼 𝓯𝓻𝓸𝓶 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴💌:
“Allah gives me one child, one daughter, and she can’t even dress for company without looking like she’s ready to go outside and play kabaddi.”
“Green again. Are you hoping someone will notice? Someone whose name starts with H?”
“Maybe, but if you tell anyone, I’ll deny it.”
“Sanam, she is turning eighteen at the end of the month. If there is any hanky-panky going on, I need to know about it.”
“Why do you care?”
“Is there a reason I shouldn’t?”
“That is such a therapist answer. Are you sure your major is graphic design, not psychology?”
“I care because I do.”
“Haya?”
“Yes, bhabhi?”
“Shut up!”
“Whatever you say, bhabhi.”
“It’s okay, I can do it.”
“I got it. Besides, this gives me an excuse to talk to you.”
“A very thinly veiled one, but sure.”
“So, when should I send my parents over to talk to yours?”
“Well, I think next week they’re— Wait. What?”
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
💌03/31/24
Deciding between whether to give this 3.5 or 4 stars😅
RTC soon (I know I say this a lot but I promise I'll put a review soon when I'm a little lazy & little busy)
💌03/26/24
I'm well aware I've like so many reviews to write...but who cares?😃 it's not going to stop me from reading more🤭 THE MOST ANTICIPATED RAMADAN TBR IS HERE!😍 heard so many good things about this book
Meanwhile my study books giving me *bombastic side eyes*👀
December 22, 2023
"There is no faith without trust, and there is no trust without faith"
Salaam, with Love is a faith-based novel including a diverse group of loving family and friends, as well as a dash of humor, relatable awkward teen moments, and a hint of romance. Admittedly, this is such a heartfelt story and reading it during Ramadhan was such an incandescent and a big service. I prayed so the author will be rewarded for how much this book had helped; if not big, but surely flicked the heart of her Muslim readers to be better, especially during the holy month.
At first, it was a bit hard for me to get into the book as I disfavor Dua the first time. I feel like she picks holes in everything that happened in her life, it unnerves me a little bit more than I anticipated. However, switching to the Audiobook had done me a huge favor by making me perceive it differently. As it happens, I find myself loving and relating to Dua more and more as she learns a lot about herself and gains confidence. I appreciated learning about it through the eyes of a Pakistani-American Muslim girl who is struggling with her faith and seeking a stronger relationship with God and her family.
This book has touch my soul in the most beautiful way and it's such a piece of a good fortune to have this nearing the last ten nights of Ramadan. In spite of sparing effort to be a better Muslim, meeting Dua and her family had helped convene me to do the same and I bear no lie when I said I cried that I received such light in the most unexpected way as I was expecting to yield to the halal romance when I picked this 😂.
Regardless of how, I do find a few tidbits of the story to be inconsistent and unaccounted for. I respected that the author also tried to highlight Islamophobia and the real issue centering on it. Still, the approach to it, given the plot seems a bit overcompensated and unrealistic to convey. I believe the issue could still be underlined in a different manner, yet still be able to get across to readers on the mass of it. Even so, this drawback won't take the enjoyment of reading Salaam, with Love. The family dynamic, amiable friendship, the Pakistani-American culture imbued as well as the mild romance would make up for it.
In a sense, this book may probably be too much for non-believers as it's very religious-esque and I would understand if some people are not delighted as much as I do. Nonetheless, if you wanna take a peek at the beauty of the religion, or try to grasp the virtue of Islam, I can't encourage you more to give this a try! This book pretty much represents them most accurately and I'm very much glad such a gem exists!
January 6, 2022
I went into this cautiously optimistic and was pleasantly surprised! As a Muslim reader it's always a little difficult to read books with Muslims that might practice faith differently than I do which generally sets me up for disappointment. That being said, the only real thing that makes me not like the representation is if the book contributes to the rhetoric that Muslims who practice differently (or stricter) aren't great or if it fits into the whole "I'm not like other Muslims" trope.
So this book passed that test because this book really explored GROWTH in faith. This is one of the rare non hijabi books that shows that the hijab isn't what makes a woman more Muslim than another. I loved seeing Dua strive to grow in her faith and get closer to her family and her passions. I absolutely adored seeing bits and pieces of the Quran or hadith in the book. It was so seamless and natural and unapologetic!
My actual rating would probably be 4.5 just because there were moments that took me out of the story like the fact that they would listen to music during Ramadan. And while I know every Muslim practices differently, it felt strange to have it brought up so many times, especially because music isn't really allowed in Islam (and while I still struggle with that aspect of my faith I do tend to try and avoid it especially during Ramadan). However, the band name Sheikh Rattle and Roll was iconic and I think it was really cool to see Muslim kids sing nasheeds! So that specific portion is just a me thing and not something that would deter me from recommending the book, really.
I also think the romance aspect was so well done especially because it wasn't really a traditional romance at all. We actually got to see two types of romance in the book, and they were both halal. I loved that the book discussed interracial marriages as well! This book also had such lovely family and friendship relationships! The dynamics between the individual characters were really well done and by the end of it it almost felt like I was a part of the big family too!
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and would highly recommend it! Content warnings for racism and Islamophobia, and gun violence!
So this book passed that test because this book really explored GROWTH in faith. This is one of the rare non hijabi books that shows that the hijab isn't what makes a woman more Muslim than another. I loved seeing Dua strive to grow in her faith and get closer to her family and her passions. I absolutely adored seeing bits and pieces of the Quran or hadith in the book. It was so seamless and natural and unapologetic!
My actual rating would probably be 4.5 just because there were moments that took me out of the story like the fact that they would listen to music during Ramadan. And while I know every Muslim practices differently, it felt strange to have it brought up so many times, especially because music isn't really allowed in Islam (and while I still struggle with that aspect of my faith I do tend to try and avoid it especially during Ramadan). However, the band name Sheikh Rattle and Roll was iconic and I think it was really cool to see Muslim kids sing nasheeds! So that specific portion is just a me thing and not something that would deter me from recommending the book, really.
I also think the romance aspect was so well done especially because it wasn't really a traditional romance at all. We actually got to see two types of romance in the book, and they were both halal. I loved that the book discussed interracial marriages as well! This book also had such lovely family and friendship relationships! The dynamics between the individual characters were really well done and by the end of it it almost felt like I was a part of the big family too!
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and would highly recommend it! Content warnings for racism and Islamophobia, and gun violence!
March 30, 2022
I might rewrite this review in the morning, but this is my very jumbly thoughts after finishing this book at 1AM, with my eyes half opened.
Firstly, without saying anything first, I would like to say to EVERYONE ESPECIALLY to my Muslim friends, PLEASE, PLEASE , PLEASEEEEE pick this book up! Especially, since its so perfect for Ramadan. A book that portrays the concept of Islam so beautifully, in the eyes of a Pakistani author , and the REPRESENTATION in here, made it so much delightful to read.
Also, DISCALAIMER ALERTS , there will be two parts of the review which one really talks about my reflection of what I've gotten out of this book, and of one more, where I will be SCREAMING CAPSLOCKING EVERY SINGLE THING because, lowkey, the romance was HALAL AND CUTE AND GRR HALAL .
Personal Ratings : Overall 4🌟, but WITH THE WAY IT MADE ME FEEL, ITS A 5🌟
Short Summary
Dua is a Muslim from a Pakistani family, and an only child. When her father decided to take her to stay with her uncle's family in New York for Ramadan, Dua was not only stressed out with the long stay, she was also stressed in reconnecting with her extended family members. A story that is set of the month of the Holy Ramadan, the celebration of Eid, reconnecting family ties and mostly, on the stories of living as a Muslim in a country where the religion is painted as something horrid.
Personal Thoughts
I blame my half-awake mode, but this will be a very messy review. You guys have been warned.
Firstly, when I first saw the cover, my first thought was "Oh, this gonna be something cute and fun and ngawwwwwww another halal muslim story." ONLY TO COME OUT WITH CRYING, BAWLING, A WHOLE LOAD OF REFLECTING with the addition of THE GIGGLING GIDDINESS that I expected to feel when I came in the book.
This book, and this story, is more than just a contemporary romance. Its of love, its of family and most of all, its of finding about your faith again, when you feel like you've lost it while living in this place we call dunya.
I don't know which part to start, so lets start off with the REFLECTION part of the review on what made me strongly recommend this book for everyone to read, especially, to my Muslim friends.
✨ A Great Representation of Muslim and Ramadan ✨
You know how tiring it gets when your religion is always misrepresented in the media, and mygosh was it a good change to see it represented so well, written so beautifully and was explained so intricately. I loved how the author painted Ramadan as our Holy Month, the activities that we can do during Ramadan, and most of all, I love how the author highlighted that Ramadan is a month that we can try our very very best to become better people and better Muslims. Its represented and painted so well, that I teared up at some parts, on how Dua, as a character herself was so adamant into being a better person overall. And that leads me to my next point which is Characterisation
✨ Relatable Characters as a Muslim ✨
There are times when I felt that it wasn't easy to become someone good. Humans are imperfect, and I loved that the characters in this book was flawed, but they are so very relatable. Someone has bound to feel what Dua had gone through in her daily life. She's not a bad muslim in general, she prays, but sometimes is late; she reads the Quran, but sometimes she doesn't get the meaning; and at the end of the day she is still a Muslim. I loved reading her reflections and how she worked so hard to become a better person, especially during the Holy Month of Ramadan. It was beautiful and it made me cry so so much as I can relate to Dua as a person. I love reading her soul-searching journey, in hopes in finding God again, and being a better Muslim. I loved reading her prayers and her thoughts when she prayed because it felt so sincere, and mostly, I loved how that whatever she went through, there are times that as a human, we struggle to become better too.
The book really shows a theme of soul-searching which I really appreciate, in the world where we can be forgetful and be lost. I love Dua's journey and I teared up at some parts reading it and it makes me happy that she had found what she was looking for.
✨ Family Relationships ✨
Growing up in a big family, I get that it was not easy, and in the case for Dua being the only child and living far away from her extended family, its always easy to feel like you're the only one left out. I loved reading about her family and how they reconnected. I loved that they all had an appreciation for music and that it was not something that can deter you as a good Muslim. Their family relationship, and how it was more the highlight of this book, (with subtle proses of Dua and Hassan), its a book that made me smile and just laugh at certain of their antiques. The author also included celebration of Eid and I loved reading about it too.
✨ Inclusion of Islamphobia ✨
There is a part of the book that made me tear up so so much. About how the religion was painted due to a certain group that seemed radical. It was something to paint the religion as such, its another thing where assault and murder attempts has been made just because you're a muslim, or brown or different. Its something that I am thankful for living in Malaysia as I can practice my religion freely, but its another thing where you're living in a world that is just so scary and prejudiced. While not everyone would act that way, it creates a certain stigma that will definitely scar a person for life. I liked how the author showcased this, even if this is categorized under YA Contemporary.
With all that being said, YOU WILL STILL GET BUTTERFLIES that you expected when you come in this book. All the things that I mentioned were plus points that made this book such a wholesome read that I had devoured and enjoyed so very much!
THE ROMANCE IN HERE WAS HALAL. IT WAS ANGSTY AND SUBTLE AND VERY BOLLYWOOD-VIBES, WHERE THE MAIN LEAD STEALS A LOOK AT THE FEMALE LEAD AND THEY BOTH BLUSH. Yup thats how the entire romance played out in this book and I FREAKING LOVED IT . It was not only cute but MY GOSH IT LEFT ME SMILING AND SCREAMING, cause they DID NOT EVEN TOUCH EACH OTHER BUT IT WAS SO FREAKING CUTE LIKE WHAT EVEN IS THIS.
Besides the romance, the APPRECIATION FOR MUSIC, was what made me loved this book even more. excuse me, BE RIGHT BACK FINDING AN USTAZ THAT CAN TEACH YOU TO READ SURAH (MENGAJI) AND PLAY DRUMS, AND SEND DRAWINGS AND RANDOM THINGS AND SUBTLY DOES LITTLE THINGS FOR YOU :')
Anywho, if you came across this review unedited (I lowkey will edit this), you're in luck because, you'll see how much unfiltered this review is. I loved how it made me feel.
Was it the best books out there? Not really. A lot of things still can be improved.
But did it made me feel happy, whole and just went on a soul-searching journey myself as well? BIGGGGGG YES!
This book is perfect for my muslim friends of any age. It will comfort you, it will make you smile , and mostly, it will bring you closer to God, which well, was something you won't expect when you came in this book.
Thank you to Times Reads for generously providing me this gorgeous copy of the book.
Disclaimers: All my reviews are my thoughts of the book and according to my personal preferences. Even though I had received a review copy, it does not affect my review and honest thoughts for the book.
Firstly, without saying anything first, I would like to say to EVERYONE ESPECIALLY to my Muslim friends, PLEASE, PLEASE , PLEASEEEEE pick this book up! Especially, since its so perfect for Ramadan. A book that portrays the concept of Islam so beautifully, in the eyes of a Pakistani author , and the REPRESENTATION in here, made it so much delightful to read.
Also, DISCALAIMER ALERTS , there will be two parts of the review which one really talks about my reflection of what I've gotten out of this book, and of one more, where I will be SCREAMING CAPSLOCKING EVERY SINGLE THING because, lowkey, the romance was HALAL AND CUTE AND GRR HALAL .
Personal Ratings : Overall 4🌟, but WITH THE WAY IT MADE ME FEEL, ITS A 5🌟
Short Summary
Dua is a Muslim from a Pakistani family, and an only child. When her father decided to take her to stay with her uncle's family in New York for Ramadan, Dua was not only stressed out with the long stay, she was also stressed in reconnecting with her extended family members. A story that is set of the month of the Holy Ramadan, the celebration of Eid, reconnecting family ties and mostly, on the stories of living as a Muslim in a country where the religion is painted as something horrid.
Personal Thoughts
I blame my half-awake mode, but this will be a very messy review. You guys have been warned.
Firstly, when I first saw the cover, my first thought was "Oh, this gonna be something cute and fun and ngawwwwwww another halal muslim story." ONLY TO COME OUT WITH CRYING, BAWLING, A WHOLE LOAD OF REFLECTING with the addition of THE GIGGLING GIDDINESS that I expected to feel when I came in the book.
This book, and this story, is more than just a contemporary romance. Its of love, its of family and most of all, its of finding about your faith again, when you feel like you've lost it while living in this place we call dunya.
I don't know which part to start, so lets start off with the REFLECTION part of the review on what made me strongly recommend this book for everyone to read, especially, to my Muslim friends.
✨ A Great Representation of Muslim and Ramadan ✨
You know how tiring it gets when your religion is always misrepresented in the media, and mygosh was it a good change to see it represented so well, written so beautifully and was explained so intricately. I loved how the author painted Ramadan as our Holy Month, the activities that we can do during Ramadan, and most of all, I love how the author highlighted that Ramadan is a month that we can try our very very best to become better people and better Muslims. Its represented and painted so well, that I teared up at some parts, on how Dua, as a character herself was so adamant into being a better person overall. And that leads me to my next point which is Characterisation
✨ Relatable Characters as a Muslim ✨
There are times when I felt that it wasn't easy to become someone good. Humans are imperfect, and I loved that the characters in this book was flawed, but they are so very relatable. Someone has bound to feel what Dua had gone through in her daily life. She's not a bad muslim in general, she prays, but sometimes is late; she reads the Quran, but sometimes she doesn't get the meaning; and at the end of the day she is still a Muslim. I loved reading her reflections and how she worked so hard to become a better person, especially during the Holy Month of Ramadan. It was beautiful and it made me cry so so much as I can relate to Dua as a person. I love reading her soul-searching journey, in hopes in finding God again, and being a better Muslim. I loved reading her prayers and her thoughts when she prayed because it felt so sincere, and mostly, I loved how that whatever she went through, there are times that as a human, we struggle to become better too.
"Mom said that would come once I learned to love God more. I wasnt' sure how that was supposed to happen naturally. What did that feel like> To love with your whole being, and know without a doubt that the object of your love cared for you more than you cared for Him?"
The book really shows a theme of soul-searching which I really appreciate, in the world where we can be forgetful and be lost. I love Dua's journey and I teared up at some parts reading it and it makes me happy that she had found what she was looking for.
✨ Family Relationships ✨
Growing up in a big family, I get that it was not easy, and in the case for Dua being the only child and living far away from her extended family, its always easy to feel like you're the only one left out. I loved reading about her family and how they reconnected. I loved that they all had an appreciation for music and that it was not something that can deter you as a good Muslim. Their family relationship, and how it was more the highlight of this book, (with subtle proses of Dua and Hassan), its a book that made me smile and just laugh at certain of their antiques. The author also included celebration of Eid and I loved reading about it too.
✨ Inclusion of Islamphobia ✨
There is a part of the book that made me tear up so so much. About how the religion was painted due to a certain group that seemed radical. It was something to paint the religion as such, its another thing where assault and murder attempts has been made just because you're a muslim, or brown or different. Its something that I am thankful for living in Malaysia as I can practice my religion freely, but its another thing where you're living in a world that is just so scary and prejudiced. While not everyone would act that way, it creates a certain stigma that will definitely scar a person for life. I liked how the author showcased this, even if this is categorized under YA Contemporary.
With all that being said, YOU WILL STILL GET BUTTERFLIES that you expected when you come in this book. All the things that I mentioned were plus points that made this book such a wholesome read that I had devoured and enjoyed so very much!
THE ROMANCE IN HERE WAS HALAL. IT WAS ANGSTY AND SUBTLE AND VERY BOLLYWOOD-VIBES, WHERE THE MAIN LEAD STEALS A LOOK AT THE FEMALE LEAD AND THEY BOTH BLUSH. Yup thats how the entire romance played out in this book and I FREAKING LOVED IT . It was not only cute but MY GOSH IT LEFT ME SMILING AND SCREAMING, cause they DID NOT EVEN TOUCH EACH OTHER BUT IT WAS SO FREAKING CUTE LIKE WHAT EVEN IS THIS.
Besides the romance, the APPRECIATION FOR MUSIC, was what made me loved this book even more. excuse me, BE RIGHT BACK FINDING AN USTAZ THAT CAN TEACH YOU TO READ SURAH (MENGAJI) AND PLAY DRUMS, AND SEND DRAWINGS AND RANDOM THINGS AND SUBTLY DOES LITTLE THINGS FOR YOU :')
Anywho, if you came across this review unedited (I lowkey will edit this), you're in luck because, you'll see how much unfiltered this review is. I loved how it made me feel.
Was it the best books out there? Not really. A lot of things still can be improved.
But did it made me feel happy, whole and just went on a soul-searching journey myself as well? BIGGGGGG YES!
This book is perfect for my muslim friends of any age. It will comfort you, it will make you smile , and mostly, it will bring you closer to God, which well, was something you won't expect when you came in this book.
Thank you to Times Reads for generously providing me this gorgeous copy of the book.
Disclaimers: All my reviews are my thoughts of the book and according to my personal preferences. Even though I had received a review copy, it does not affect my review and honest thoughts for the book.
April 29, 2022
dnf at 50%
i don't usually dnf books but something about music in ramadan and comparing the recitation of the Quran with singing didn't sit right with me
i don't usually dnf books but something about music in ramadan and comparing the recitation of the Quran with singing didn't sit right with me
March 1, 2023
A heartfelt story about a young woman exploring and reconnecting with her Muslim faith. This was a nicely balanced book in that there were some lighter moments mixed in with some more difficult ones. I enjoyed the family dynamics and the love, support and warmth expressed by the characters.
NB: Please read the own-voice reviews.
CW:
NB: Please read the own-voice reviews.
CW:
January 13, 2024
Lovely, but as I was expecting Naive, and unrealistic. Still, it can be a quit good view to clear the accusations Muslims get. And a warm read that should have been in Ramadan, but still I kinda needed this now. Like NOW!
Dua is a graduate high school student, that she will have to apply on her major pluse can't decide about making her parents dream of her holding a Muslim Student Association. She's struggling with her beliefs too, and entwined with music, will she channel all those thoughts in the right direction??
We may know that by going through with her. She will be with her cousins on summer, where it was timed with the holy month Ramadan, they are religious and she did not see them in years, so she's a bit anxious.
Whatever, you liked it or not, it was umm simple, quite great introduction to me for the Pakistanis and their food and dresses and thoughts, we may be alike though, I loved them, their warmth,
I liked it, The Lebanesehere, weren't the best view ever, I think she didn't know their culture well, so I couldn't feel them, but alright.
She discussed the marriage, the arranged marriage, all those such, but I didn't understand (why did she framed a normal 18 yrs old want to marry that disparate. As an Islamic life. '-' ) she tried to show how merciful is god, how sweet and gracious is islam, how dua had been from barely had beliefs to being quit alarm of god precense and his plans and faith, it can fit with all religions though, we are all believers right?, her college degree desires and her parents acceptance, family issues and how valuable are they, many good things she tried to show, but believe me there's
no plot at all.
Dua is a graduate high school student, that she will have to apply on her major pluse can't decide about making her parents dream of her holding a Muslim Student Association. She's struggling with her beliefs too, and entwined with music, will she channel all those thoughts in the right direction??
We may know that by going through with her. She will be with her cousins on summer, where it was timed with the holy month Ramadan, they are religious and she did not see them in years, so she's a bit anxious.
Whatever, you liked it or not, it was umm simple, quite great introduction to me for the Pakistanis and their food and dresses and thoughts, we may be alike though, I loved them, their warmth,
I liked it, The Lebanesehere, weren't the best view ever, I think she didn't know their culture well, so I couldn't feel them, but alright.
She discussed the marriage, the arranged marriage, all those such, but I didn't understand (why did she framed a normal 18 yrs old want to marry that disparate. As an Islamic life. '-' ) she tried to show how merciful is god, how sweet and gracious is islam, how dua had been from barely had beliefs to being quit alarm of god precense and his plans and faith, it can fit with all religions though, we are all believers right?, her college degree desires and her parents acceptance, family issues and how valuable are they, many good things she tried to show, but believe me there's
no plot at all.
November 2, 2021
Achingly sweet, SALAAM WITH LOVE is a heartfelt tale of family, faith, and love set against the backdrop of Ramadan. Beg beautifully crafts a comforting tale filled with fun characters and excellent Muslim representation.
this was soooooooo cute!!!! i absolutely loved dua, our protagonist, and all her cousins and their friends, including cute drummer (Muslim band so not sketchy) Hassan, who was so sweet!!!! i adored all the mentions of prayer, the struggles of waking up for suhoor during ramadan, the cooking of iftaar together. such a lovely book i wish i had read when i was a teen!! we don't have many ramadan-festive stories out there, but this one is just perfect!!
this was soooooooo cute!!!! i absolutely loved dua, our protagonist, and all her cousins and their friends, including cute drummer (Muslim band so not sketchy) Hassan, who was so sweet!!!! i adored all the mentions of prayer, the struggles of waking up for suhoor during ramadan, the cooking of iftaar together. such a lovely book i wish i had read when i was a teen!! we don't have many ramadan-festive stories out there, but this one is just perfect!!
May 3, 2022
I liked the representation and I'm glad I read this during Ramadan.
Read
July 16, 2022TW: Islamaphobia, hate crime, violence against a child
I feel very conflicted with this one.
The Muslim rep was amazing! I love the emphasis on Dua growing in her faith and wanting to be closer to Allah. I also love the music element because music is definitely apart of my own spiritual intimacy with Allah so it was refreshing to see other Muslims with the same experience. I also loveddd the combo of family and Ramadan in NYC. It was very atmospheric and reminded me of how much I miss this past Ramadan. Here’s where the author lost me:
The hate crime plot was unnecessary and very triggering. Especially considering it was a 12 yr old getting shot. It felt very much like it was only there for shock value and trauma porn. I mean sure it “brought the family together” but they could’ve easily bonded over something else. It added nothing substantial to the plot and I encourage Muslim authors to stop centering our trauma in books that we go to for escapism. Like bro look at the cover and the title. Who would pick this book up and expect to read about islamaphobia ??
Lastly that ending.
I HATEE the way Muslim rush into marriage. Especially at a young age. Culturally most of us aren’t raised knowing how to go about interacting with men, how to sustain a committed relationship, how to communicate with your partner, adequate sexual education etc etc etc. So I think it’s just really irresponsible considering the age of the main character and the readers for the author to rush the ending the way she did. Especially when the romance wasn’t even fleshed out. They didn’t even love each other!!! Dear young Muslim women, I’m so sorry to tell you this but every guy you have a crush on isn’t meant to be your husband. There’s so much more that goes into choosing a spouse.
So yea I’m not gonna rate this one because I did really really love the Muslim rep and want more people to read this book. I personally just wasn’t blown away by it.
I feel very conflicted with this one.
The Muslim rep was amazing! I love the emphasis on Dua growing in her faith and wanting to be closer to Allah. I also love the music element because music is definitely apart of my own spiritual intimacy with Allah so it was refreshing to see other Muslims with the same experience. I also loveddd the combo of family and Ramadan in NYC. It was very atmospheric and reminded me of how much I miss this past Ramadan. Here’s where the author lost me:
The hate crime plot was unnecessary and very triggering. Especially considering it was a 12 yr old getting shot. It felt very much like it was only there for shock value and trauma porn. I mean sure it “brought the family together” but they could’ve easily bonded over something else. It added nothing substantial to the plot and I encourage Muslim authors to stop centering our trauma in books that we go to for escapism. Like bro look at the cover and the title. Who would pick this book up and expect to read about islamaphobia ??
Lastly that ending.
I HATEE the way Muslim rush into marriage. Especially at a young age. Culturally most of us aren’t raised knowing how to go about interacting with men, how to sustain a committed relationship, how to communicate with your partner, adequate sexual education etc etc etc. So I think it’s just really irresponsible considering the age of the main character and the readers for the author to rush the ending the way she did. Especially when the romance wasn’t even fleshed out. They didn’t even love each other!!! Dear young Muslim women, I’m so sorry to tell you this but every guy you have a crush on isn’t meant to be your husband. There’s so much more that goes into choosing a spouse.
So yea I’m not gonna rate this one because I did really really love the Muslim rep and want more people to read this book. I personally just wasn’t blown away by it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2021
This 288 page YA contemporary Islamic romcom is very Islamic centered, and the storyline provides some nice twists along the way. Unfortunately the writing is terrible. Not the storytelling or even grammar per say, but the contradictions, errors, underdeveloped characters, and the inconsistencies. Yes I read an uncorrected proof, but this book is a mainstream major publisher presented book coming out in a few weeks, and it is in desperate need of some attention. I really don't think it is the author's fault, it reads as if this was a manuscript that got shopped around and picked up and then never refined, polished, and made to sparkle. The only saving grace is that as terrible as it is literary wise, once the main character starts to get over her "internalized islamophobia" (thank you @bintyounus for bringing this concept to my attention), the book as a whole presents a lot of unapologetic specific Islamic content on every single page: how Eid salat is different than normal salat, the beauty of tajweed, the meanings of so many duas and surahs said regularly, the list goes on and on and doesn't just cover the basics. The flip side is that the characters are in a band that performs Islamic songs, but with instruments and everyone is fine with it, there are artists in the book drawing faces and portraits hang on walls, it is a romance, but it at most an arm or hand is touched and when tropes about Desi college choices are pushed back on the parents break the stereotype and relent. There are threads of cultural-ism within Islam, Islamophobia and a violent near death experience, but the book is very clean and honestly has a lot of potential, I have no idea why it is so sloppy. SO SLOPPY, and I took notes, so buckle up.
SYNOPSIS:
Seventeen year old Dua is an only child and her doctor father and caterer mom are the only Pakistani and only Muslims in their small Virginia town. They decide for Ramadan that they are all going to go and stay with family in Queens, New York for the whole month. They have given Dua less than 48 hours notice to plan to spend the end of her summer with cousins she hasn't seen in five years. The parents hope that Dua will benefit from being around family, being closer to other Muslims in the month, and enjoy the cultural environment. Dua is not excited, but when bear hugs and genuine smiles meet her at the door, she is sucked in to a bustling house and the happiness and drama that is bound to unfold. Sharing a room with her older, law school bound cousin Mahnoor is by far the hardest relationship to cultivate. Newly engaged, Mahnoor is quiet, reserved and deeply unhappy. Dua makes little progress, but with Ramadan starting and her cousins setting goals for the month, Dua is determined to do better in all aspects of her life. As she gets close to Mahnoor's best friend, Haya, she also gets closer to Haya's brother Hassan. It is Ramadan though, and she isn't good around boys, but Hassan is a hafiz and is helping her reach her memorization goals for the month, Hassan is also in a band and needs Dua's help. When Mahnoor's engagement is called off to Haya and Hassan's brother, everything comes to a standstill between the families, but when a cousin is shot, the families come back together to support one another and deal with their decisions and their outcomes. By the end of Ramadan, every character has changed and grown and is sad the month is over and that Dua and her family are leaving.
WHY I LIKE IT:
Suffice it to say I love how Islam centered it is. I honestly checked the publishing information because of how much Islamic content is included, also for the amount of errors. The book did not start off well for me with Dua trying to separate herself from her "religious" cousins. The ones who practice communally and wear hijab. She was not like "them" and the dichotomy of measuring religiosity as acceptable or not, too much or too little, enrages me. It sets up that she practices Islam but in a relaxed manner and has been taught by her parents, and it is who she is, but it isn't a huge part of her life. As the story progresses, it seems that she just doesn't know a ton of surahs, she actually is pretty religious, and devout, it is very awkward and not presented clearly, which is why I attributed it more to her being in denial or embarrassed by her identity, not about her level of belief. Dua is also not like-able, she is incredible privileged and arrogant commenting on the size of houses and rooms, and her shoes. About half way through she starts to comes across as clumsy, not sure then why is she always wearing heels. Ultimately she is just not well-developed and often reads like an annoying helpless child. The framing of Dua being a musician and not being so religious is quickly questioned as she gifts her cousins music paraphernalia, and looks at portraits on their walls. If most are like me, and both families are praying, fasting, reading Quran, active musicians and artists and ok with hanging pictures, one would assume they are pretty in-syc with one another on their religious views and in practice.
Dua is not the only character that is poorly voiced, fractured, and inconsistent. Her parents are so unrealistic and awkward in the beginning I physically cringed reading them telling her their reasons for going to New York. In the car on the way, they even quiz Dua on her cousins names. She hasn't seen them in five years, she isn't a toddler, she should know their names, she has clearly purchased incredibly personalized gifts for them, and is filled with detailed memories of when they all met up in Pakistan together, the whole scene is pointless. One of the cousins, Ibrahim, is blind and Dua says that a few years ago her parents had to explain to her what it meant to be blind. Seriously? I get the learning how to let him take the lead and how to interact, but you as a teenager didn't know what it means to be blind? When you met him in Pakistan you didn't know he was blind? The four year old cousin is cute and adorable, and has the vocabulary and mannerisms of a seven or eight year old at times, most times. The 12 year old cousin has the wisdom of an old uncle and why do none of the adults in the book seem to work? The book probably should have started at chapter five, it seems the book hits a bit of a stride that at least makes it readable.
A huge plot of the book is the band, Sheikh, Rattle, and Roll, but the details about it are terrible. Mahnoor is walking out the door and her mom tells her to take Dua. The reader doesn't know where they are going, but Mahnoor reluctantly agrees and they head out on the subway. Mahnoor constantly is telling Dua to hurry so they aren't late and miss it, when they arrive, the band performs one song and that is when Hassan and Dua and Haya all meet. But the other two band members are her cousins, she is staying in their house. What? Rabia is constantly talking, that is her character quirk, how does Dua not know that they are performing? Not know they are in a band? No way would it not be mentioned. And why only one song? That is so random. At the end when they perform again on Eid, it is a concert, it is again only one song. A concert is not one song. Do they not practice or load up equipment, how is all this going on in one house and Dua is so clueless?
The inconsistencies are aplenty. A few examples: it says her cousin doesn't wear make-up, a few chapters later has a whole face of make-up, on Eid she even does Dua's make-up. When they all are sitting down to write their lists of plans for Ramadan it says they don't have to share their lists. Yet a few lines later Dua is singled out in a very creepy way to share hers. In a single paragraph it says that at home she prays fajr half asleep, or late and in a rush before school, but concludes the description by complaining that praying in congregation is more difficult for her to focus in. Huh? praying while half asleep or in a rush gives you more focus than praying in jammah? Even non Muslims are going to be scratching their heads. At one point as Dua is trying to figure out what she wants to study and if she wants to start an MSA in her high school, since she is the only Muslim, she internally discusses how she wants to prove herself to her parents. Then when she decides what she wants to do for her, she remarks that she isn't just doing it to prove to her parents, but because she wants it for her. The only problem is, no where have we seen or has it been established that her parents are requiring this proof.
There are odd errors as well. The athan on a phone goes off, the Uncle reaches in to his pocket for his phone and turns off his iPad. That is a big pocket indeed. Dua gifts Hassan a CD, really a CD? What is this 1999? Who gifts CDs in 2021? Dua starts playing a keyboard in someone elses house and no one mentions it other than the two people with her, how big is the house that you can't hear it? The Uncle gets upset that Dua doesn't pray Asr right at time, but a lot of people prefer Asr specifically to be prayed later within the time frame. In a two chapter frame it mentions letting out a breath she didn't realize she was holding three times, word for word the same.
I was genuinely surprised that music being questionable was not brought up at all, two of the bandmates are huffaz. The author lets her own qualifiers slip in, perhaps her own desire to not take a stand that could seem alienating. She says, "allegedly" the time right before iftar is the best time to make dua. As Dua tries to figure out what is going on with Hassan she often remarks how it is hard or confusing "especially because he is Muslim." Would a relationship with a non Muslim be ok, less hard, more hard? There is no lowering of any gazes, which for as religious as everyone in the book is, should have at least been mentioned even if not adhered to. The book puts on odd stress on tasbeehs and kufis, not sure why.
I do like the genuine love the characters have for Islam, Allah, Ramadan, salat. It is so much a part of every thing they do, and it is lovely. I also love Dua's friend in Virginia, Kat, she is fasting in solidarity and wants to join the MSA even though she isn't Muslim, but a seemingly amazing friend.
FLAGS:
The on-gain-off-again engaged couple do touch hands at Eid prayer. Hassan touches Duas arm when she is perceived as helpless. There are anti Islam protests and an angry man shoots Adam.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
If the sloppiness gets resolved, the book could be used as a high school book club choice. Those girls love them some halal romance, and this book is incredibly religious and clean.
SYNOPSIS:
Seventeen year old Dua is an only child and her doctor father and caterer mom are the only Pakistani and only Muslims in their small Virginia town. They decide for Ramadan that they are all going to go and stay with family in Queens, New York for the whole month. They have given Dua less than 48 hours notice to plan to spend the end of her summer with cousins she hasn't seen in five years. The parents hope that Dua will benefit from being around family, being closer to other Muslims in the month, and enjoy the cultural environment. Dua is not excited, but when bear hugs and genuine smiles meet her at the door, she is sucked in to a bustling house and the happiness and drama that is bound to unfold. Sharing a room with her older, law school bound cousin Mahnoor is by far the hardest relationship to cultivate. Newly engaged, Mahnoor is quiet, reserved and deeply unhappy. Dua makes little progress, but with Ramadan starting and her cousins setting goals for the month, Dua is determined to do better in all aspects of her life. As she gets close to Mahnoor's best friend, Haya, she also gets closer to Haya's brother Hassan. It is Ramadan though, and she isn't good around boys, but Hassan is a hafiz and is helping her reach her memorization goals for the month, Hassan is also in a band and needs Dua's help. When Mahnoor's engagement is called off to Haya and Hassan's brother, everything comes to a standstill between the families, but when a cousin is shot, the families come back together to support one another and deal with their decisions and their outcomes. By the end of Ramadan, every character has changed and grown and is sad the month is over and that Dua and her family are leaving.
WHY I LIKE IT:
Suffice it to say I love how Islam centered it is. I honestly checked the publishing information because of how much Islamic content is included, also for the amount of errors. The book did not start off well for me with Dua trying to separate herself from her "religious" cousins. The ones who practice communally and wear hijab. She was not like "them" and the dichotomy of measuring religiosity as acceptable or not, too much or too little, enrages me. It sets up that she practices Islam but in a relaxed manner and has been taught by her parents, and it is who she is, but it isn't a huge part of her life. As the story progresses, it seems that she just doesn't know a ton of surahs, she actually is pretty religious, and devout, it is very awkward and not presented clearly, which is why I attributed it more to her being in denial or embarrassed by her identity, not about her level of belief. Dua is also not like-able, she is incredible privileged and arrogant commenting on the size of houses and rooms, and her shoes. About half way through she starts to comes across as clumsy, not sure then why is she always wearing heels. Ultimately she is just not well-developed and often reads like an annoying helpless child. The framing of Dua being a musician and not being so religious is quickly questioned as she gifts her cousins music paraphernalia, and looks at portraits on their walls. If most are like me, and both families are praying, fasting, reading Quran, active musicians and artists and ok with hanging pictures, one would assume they are pretty in-syc with one another on their religious views and in practice.
Dua is not the only character that is poorly voiced, fractured, and inconsistent. Her parents are so unrealistic and awkward in the beginning I physically cringed reading them telling her their reasons for going to New York. In the car on the way, they even quiz Dua on her cousins names. She hasn't seen them in five years, she isn't a toddler, she should know their names, she has clearly purchased incredibly personalized gifts for them, and is filled with detailed memories of when they all met up in Pakistan together, the whole scene is pointless. One of the cousins, Ibrahim, is blind and Dua says that a few years ago her parents had to explain to her what it meant to be blind. Seriously? I get the learning how to let him take the lead and how to interact, but you as a teenager didn't know what it means to be blind? When you met him in Pakistan you didn't know he was blind? The four year old cousin is cute and adorable, and has the vocabulary and mannerisms of a seven or eight year old at times, most times. The 12 year old cousin has the wisdom of an old uncle and why do none of the adults in the book seem to work? The book probably should have started at chapter five, it seems the book hits a bit of a stride that at least makes it readable.
A huge plot of the book is the band, Sheikh, Rattle, and Roll, but the details about it are terrible. Mahnoor is walking out the door and her mom tells her to take Dua. The reader doesn't know where they are going, but Mahnoor reluctantly agrees and they head out on the subway. Mahnoor constantly is telling Dua to hurry so they aren't late and miss it, when they arrive, the band performs one song and that is when Hassan and Dua and Haya all meet. But the other two band members are her cousins, she is staying in their house. What? Rabia is constantly talking, that is her character quirk, how does Dua not know that they are performing? Not know they are in a band? No way would it not be mentioned. And why only one song? That is so random. At the end when they perform again on Eid, it is a concert, it is again only one song. A concert is not one song. Do they not practice or load up equipment, how is all this going on in one house and Dua is so clueless?
The inconsistencies are aplenty. A few examples: it says her cousin doesn't wear make-up, a few chapters later has a whole face of make-up, on Eid she even does Dua's make-up. When they all are sitting down to write their lists of plans for Ramadan it says they don't have to share their lists. Yet a few lines later Dua is singled out in a very creepy way to share hers. In a single paragraph it says that at home she prays fajr half asleep, or late and in a rush before school, but concludes the description by complaining that praying in congregation is more difficult for her to focus in. Huh? praying while half asleep or in a rush gives you more focus than praying in jammah? Even non Muslims are going to be scratching their heads. At one point as Dua is trying to figure out what she wants to study and if she wants to start an MSA in her high school, since she is the only Muslim, she internally discusses how she wants to prove herself to her parents. Then when she decides what she wants to do for her, she remarks that she isn't just doing it to prove to her parents, but because she wants it for her. The only problem is, no where have we seen or has it been established that her parents are requiring this proof.
There are odd errors as well. The athan on a phone goes off, the Uncle reaches in to his pocket for his phone and turns off his iPad. That is a big pocket indeed. Dua gifts Hassan a CD, really a CD? What is this 1999? Who gifts CDs in 2021? Dua starts playing a keyboard in someone elses house and no one mentions it other than the two people with her, how big is the house that you can't hear it? The Uncle gets upset that Dua doesn't pray Asr right at time, but a lot of people prefer Asr specifically to be prayed later within the time frame. In a two chapter frame it mentions letting out a breath she didn't realize she was holding three times, word for word the same.
I was genuinely surprised that music being questionable was not brought up at all, two of the bandmates are huffaz. The author lets her own qualifiers slip in, perhaps her own desire to not take a stand that could seem alienating. She says, "allegedly" the time right before iftar is the best time to make dua. As Dua tries to figure out what is going on with Hassan she often remarks how it is hard or confusing "especially because he is Muslim." Would a relationship with a non Muslim be ok, less hard, more hard? There is no lowering of any gazes, which for as religious as everyone in the book is, should have at least been mentioned even if not adhered to. The book puts on odd stress on tasbeehs and kufis, not sure why.
I do like the genuine love the characters have for Islam, Allah, Ramadan, salat. It is so much a part of every thing they do, and it is lovely. I also love Dua's friend in Virginia, Kat, she is fasting in solidarity and wants to join the MSA even though she isn't Muslim, but a seemingly amazing friend.
FLAGS:
The on-gain-off-again engaged couple do touch hands at Eid prayer. Hassan touches Duas arm when she is perceived as helpless. There are anti Islam protests and an angry man shoots Adam.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
If the sloppiness gets resolved, the book could be used as a high school book club choice. Those girls love them some halal romance, and this book is incredibly religious and clean.
March 21, 2024
wow, this book was way better than i thought. it exceeded my expectations by so much lol. solid 5 stars!! rtc!!!
i picked this book up from seeing it on someone’s “ramadan tbr” and thought that it would be a good book to read during this month. so i started it with no expectations of this book being good. i saw mixed reviews on it, but decided to give it a shot. turns out, i LOVED it. this was such a comforting book, and i loved how all the characters changed over time!
plot:
dua and her family have been invited to stay at her uncles house for ramadan. she is dreading this trip because she hasn’t seen her cousins for over 5 years, and has nothing to talk about with any of them. so, they get there, and all dua wants to do is go home and spend the summer with her best friend kat. little does she know that she won’t want to leave at the end of the month. it takes some time, but dua ends up bonding with her cousins, and loves spending times with them. some of her cousins are apart of this band, and with them are the mousawis. they are very good family friends with her cousins and their family. dua starts getting closer and closer with them 🤭and that’s where hassan comes along….
kat:
i absolutely loved her and duas friendship from the glimpses we got, but i really wish that we got more of them. her personality was so fun and energetic, and from the bit of her we got, i loved her. she really balances dua out.
mahnoor:
in the beggining, her character and personality was really annoying, and i just couldn’t understand why she was acting this way. but as she warmed up with dua, i started to like her more. i can see though why she was acting this way because she was really confused with her engagement.
dua:
i really liked seeing how she evolved and changed as a person as the month of ramadan went on. she never really cared for ramadan, but spending more time with her cousins made her appreciate this month more. seeing her interact with all her cousins was so cute. especially mahdi. he’s my favorite lol. she was really putting in an effort to be closer with her cousins, and all that effort really payed off in the end.
hassan:
i loved his character. he was so kind and caring and gentle. the times he was helping dua memorize Quran in order to reach her goal were so cute. i found myself wanting dua to get to know him. you could tell he liked dua from the start. his relationship with mahdi 🥺 is adorable. (mahdi is duas 4 yr old cousin btw). he was just so caring in everything he did. his pep talks were everything.
hassan+dua:
they are sooo cute! they are literally goals. they make the perfect couple, and every step they took together was a milestone. they balance each other out perfectly. im so happy they got together in the end. im sad we didn’t get to see them together though 😭
this was such a good ramadan read, and im so happy i picked this book up! the slow burn romance was omg!! this book is a solid 5 stars, and i have a feeling it will be a comfort book!!
i picked this book up from seeing it on someone’s “ramadan tbr” and thought that it would be a good book to read during this month. so i started it with no expectations of this book being good. i saw mixed reviews on it, but decided to give it a shot. turns out, i LOVED it. this was such a comforting book, and i loved how all the characters changed over time!
plot:
dua and her family have been invited to stay at her uncles house for ramadan. she is dreading this trip because she hasn’t seen her cousins for over 5 years, and has nothing to talk about with any of them. so, they get there, and all dua wants to do is go home and spend the summer with her best friend kat. little does she know that she won’t want to leave at the end of the month. it takes some time, but dua ends up bonding with her cousins, and loves spending times with them. some of her cousins are apart of this band, and with them are the mousawis. they are very good family friends with her cousins and their family. dua starts getting closer and closer with them 🤭and that’s where hassan comes along….
kat:
i absolutely loved her and duas friendship from the glimpses we got, but i really wish that we got more of them. her personality was so fun and energetic, and from the bit of her we got, i loved her. she really balances dua out.
mahnoor:
in the beggining, her character and personality was really annoying, and i just couldn’t understand why she was acting this way. but as she warmed up with dua, i started to like her more. i can see though why she was acting this way because she was really confused with her engagement.
dua:
i really liked seeing how she evolved and changed as a person as the month of ramadan went on. she never really cared for ramadan, but spending more time with her cousins made her appreciate this month more. seeing her interact with all her cousins was so cute. especially mahdi. he’s my favorite lol. she was really putting in an effort to be closer with her cousins, and all that effort really payed off in the end.
hassan:
i loved his character. he was so kind and caring and gentle. the times he was helping dua memorize Quran in order to reach her goal were so cute. i found myself wanting dua to get to know him. you could tell he liked dua from the start. his relationship with mahdi 🥺 is adorable. (mahdi is duas 4 yr old cousin btw). he was just so caring in everything he did. his pep talks were everything.
hassan+dua:
they are sooo cute! they are literally goals. they make the perfect couple, and every step they took together was a milestone. they balance each other out perfectly. im so happy they got together in the end. im sad we didn’t get to see them together though 😭
this was such a good ramadan read, and im so happy i picked this book up! the slow burn romance was omg!! this book is a solid 5 stars, and i have a feeling it will be a comfort book!!
September 24, 2024
Salaam, with Love was a lively story about faith, family, and connecting with the person you want to be >w<
╰┈➤ we follow dua, a pakistani muslim girl from burkeville, west virginia, as she spends the month of ramadan at her extended family's place in new york. it really wonderful to watch as she grew as a person and impact the lives of the people around her (in a good way !!) <3
: ̗̀➛ fundamentally, it is a love story. not only between her and a certain gorg drummer boy (HASSANNNNN I LOVEEEE HIMMMM)(HE WAS SO SWEET >_<)(don’t fret, this book is halal), but between her and her culture. her and her community, her passion, and most importantly, her faith.
i personally really related to her initial struggle to become more observant, and it really resonated with me (and im not even of the same religion- so this is just a testament to how compelling it was) how she stuck to her aspirations and became a better person for it. i found that to be very inspiring.
: ̗̀➛ the actual romance component was also so sweet. hassan was such a guy, he was SO kind and respectful and sweet and lovely and im ACTUALLY sad he doesn't exist. never thought i'd hit this point.
: ̗̀➛ and it wasn't five stars because...?
my official pronouncement is 3.5 stars! so why is that?
i wish we got to spend a bit more time developing her journey towards a stronger faith. some pretty heavy events happen in this book (cw below), which i do think accelerated it, and i defo know that in the height of a crisis faith just.. escalates, but i wish that we got to see some more of it, physically.
i also think the music (family friends in a band singing songs of praise) subplot was a bit vague. during the book, i honestly found myself forgetting about it a lot of the time and whenever it was mentioned i'd be like, "oh right. yeaaaaaah" instead of actually feeling invested. it really was disjointed, and didn't do that much for me.
i think that's all!
cw: islamophobia, shooting (off screen): .
╰┈➤ we follow dua, a pakistani muslim girl from burkeville, west virginia, as she spends the month of ramadan at her extended family's place in new york. it really wonderful to watch as she grew as a person and impact the lives of the people around her (in a good way !!) <3
: ̗̀➛ fundamentally, it is a love story. not only between her and a certain gorg drummer boy (HASSANNNNN I LOVEEEE HIMMMM)(HE WAS SO SWEET >_<)(don’t fret, this book is halal), but between her and her culture. her and her community, her passion, and most importantly, her faith.
i personally really related to her initial struggle to become more observant, and it really resonated with me (and im not even of the same religion- so this is just a testament to how compelling it was) how she stuck to her aspirations and became a better person for it. i found that to be very inspiring.
: ̗̀➛ the actual romance component was also so sweet. hassan was such a guy, he was SO kind and respectful and sweet and lovely and im ACTUALLY sad he doesn't exist. never thought i'd hit this point.
: ̗̀➛ and it wasn't five stars because...?
my official pronouncement is 3.5 stars! so why is that?
i wish we got to spend a bit more time developing her journey towards a stronger faith. some pretty heavy events happen in this book (cw below), which i do think accelerated it, and i defo know that in the height of a crisis faith just.. escalates, but i wish that we got to see some more of it, physically.
i also think the music (family friends in a band singing songs of praise) subplot was a bit vague. during the book, i honestly found myself forgetting about it a lot of the time and whenever it was mentioned i'd be like, "oh right. yeaaaaaah" instead of actually feeling invested. it really was disjointed, and didn't do that much for me.
i think that's all!
cw: islamophobia, shooting (off screen): .
April 14, 2022
(rating : worth the hype ⭐️)
It follows Dua spending Ramadan with her uncle’s family. Being an only child, she thought she wouldn’t fit in, in a family of 7 whom practicing Islam more than she does. She never knew that she would not only be closer to God, but her first love too 🙈
💭 I hated Mahnoor at first. So annoying & moody all the time. But I really love Dua’s best friend, Kat. She’s not a Muslim, but being thoughtful, she also tries fasting. Humorous, captivating, & educational. We got to learn the culture, foods, traditional clothes, songs & most importantly, about Ramadan, Eid, & Islam in general. The book captures the spirit of Ramadan very well.
💭 I want to say it has the right Muslim representation but not fully 🤔 Mahrams left alone on a few sessions of hafadhan isn’t it. When it comes to music, views of legal scholars vary from strictly forbidden to generally forbidden but with different restrictions, etc. The author chose Music as one of the important essence in the story. Music has been an important medium for my mental health, so, the passion is relatable.
💭 What a wholesome happy ending! I couldn’t stopped smiling. I love the character developments so much. The main & side characters grown so much. Diving in with 0 expectations but resurfaced with 💯 satisfactions. Thin book, but wholesome. Great family dynamics too! Usage of Quran verses are all in the right places, situations & scenes. This is a book targetted for YA readers, & its a debut. A little hiccups here & there is fine.
It follows Dua spending Ramadan with her uncle’s family. Being an only child, she thought she wouldn’t fit in, in a family of 7 whom practicing Islam more than she does. She never knew that she would not only be closer to God, but her first love too 🙈
💭 I hated Mahnoor at first. So annoying & moody all the time. But I really love Dua’s best friend, Kat. She’s not a Muslim, but being thoughtful, she also tries fasting. Humorous, captivating, & educational. We got to learn the culture, foods, traditional clothes, songs & most importantly, about Ramadan, Eid, & Islam in general. The book captures the spirit of Ramadan very well.
💭 I want to say it has the right Muslim representation but not fully 🤔 Mahrams left alone on a few sessions of hafadhan isn’t it. When it comes to music, views of legal scholars vary from strictly forbidden to generally forbidden but with different restrictions, etc. The author chose Music as one of the important essence in the story. Music has been an important medium for my mental health, so, the passion is relatable.
💭 What a wholesome happy ending! I couldn’t stopped smiling. I love the character developments so much. The main & side characters grown so much. Diving in with 0 expectations but resurfaced with 💯 satisfactions. Thin book, but wholesome. Great family dynamics too! Usage of Quran verses are all in the right places, situations & scenes. This is a book targetted for YA readers, & its a debut. A little hiccups here & there is fine.
March 5, 2022
First of all, the TITLE. I will never stop getting a thrill from seeing Arabic/Islamic words on mainstream books (you should have seen my face when the title of Love from Mecca to Medina dropped).
This was such a cute and heartwarming book! While I do think it’s slightly inaccurate to call it a romance, the romance that was there was adorable and I loved it! But this book was really about finding your faith and your family amidst struggle, especially in the month of Ramadan. Honestly this book just really made me miss Ramadan and had me checking my countdown to it.
As far as Muslim rep goes, I really enjoyed this one, aside from some minor things. I really liked the emphasis on our holidays and the core of our faith, that Allah never burdens us beyond that we can bear.
TW: intense Islamophobia, gun violence
This was such a cute and heartwarming book! While I do think it’s slightly inaccurate to call it a romance, the romance that was there was adorable and I loved it! But this book was really about finding your faith and your family amidst struggle, especially in the month of Ramadan. Honestly this book just really made me miss Ramadan and had me checking my countdown to it.
As far as Muslim rep goes, I really enjoyed this one, aside from some minor things. I really liked the emphasis on our holidays and the core of our faith, that Allah never burdens us beyond that we can bear.
TW: intense Islamophobia, gun violence
December 31, 2022
Very cute!!
And I loved the more nuanced portrayal of Islam and the Desi community 💕
Content warning: Islamophobia, gun violence
And I loved the more nuanced portrayal of Islam and the Desi community 💕
Content warning: Islamophobia, gun violence
Want to read
March 6, 2024-Pakistani rep
-Muslim rep
-Music vibes~
AHHH beyond excited for this!!
-Muslim rep
-Music vibes~
AHHH beyond excited for this!!
April 16, 2022
4 amazing stars for this gem!
Great muslim rep? Check.
Amazing family dynamic? Check.
Food that made me hungry? Check check check!
Dua has been the only Muslim student in Burkeville. After her parents announced that they will spend the summer and Ramadan together with her extended family in New York, Dua was not 100% intrigued. First, she hadn't seen them for years. Two, Uncle Yusuf's family was more religious than hers, can she blend in? With unsure decisions regarding her future, Dua took this opportunity to learn more about her family, her religion and also herself.
Family was the main highlight of this book for me. Dua's cousins were a mix of different personalities and quirks which added colours of joy in this book. Ibrahim with his calm demeanour, Mahnoor the quiet one, Rabia the chatty one, Adam the matured one and Mahdi THE CUTEST one. I really REALLY love it when books were centred around families and this one is a jackpot for me.
This book also contain subtle guides on ramadan, especially on how we celebrate them and what Ramadan meant to us. It's like a gentle reminder to Dua and also for us readers to not take Ramadans for granted. As Dua was trying to improve herself this Ramadan, I can't avoid questioning my own goal for this Ramadan too. I just LOVE all the inputs that they put in. It's like a memory refresher for me.
Other than the heartwarming stories on Ramadan cultures, food and music, Salaam, with Love also tackled the idea of Islamophobia among the societies. Dua has been in a sheltered community back in her hometown, but New York's a different story. When she faced the Islamophobia first-hand, it scarred her ideology of the perfect world and I resonated with her in that moment.
Although I love Hassan, truly, but I felt like the romance needed more substance on why exactly they liked each other from the first sight. But other than that, I have to admit that their relationship is one of the cutest one in the most halal way!
I would totally recommend this book if you're looking for a Ramadan read or even a book with great muslim representation. Thank you Times Reads for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
Great muslim rep? Check.
Amazing family dynamic? Check.
Food that made me hungry? Check check check!
Dua has been the only Muslim student in Burkeville. After her parents announced that they will spend the summer and Ramadan together with her extended family in New York, Dua was not 100% intrigued. First, she hadn't seen them for years. Two, Uncle Yusuf's family was more religious than hers, can she blend in? With unsure decisions regarding her future, Dua took this opportunity to learn more about her family, her religion and also herself.
Family was the main highlight of this book for me. Dua's cousins were a mix of different personalities and quirks which added colours of joy in this book. Ibrahim with his calm demeanour, Mahnoor the quiet one, Rabia the chatty one, Adam the matured one and Mahdi THE CUTEST one. I really REALLY love it when books were centred around families and this one is a jackpot for me.
This book also contain subtle guides on ramadan, especially on how we celebrate them and what Ramadan meant to us. It's like a gentle reminder to Dua and also for us readers to not take Ramadans for granted. As Dua was trying to improve herself this Ramadan, I can't avoid questioning my own goal for this Ramadan too. I just LOVE all the inputs that they put in. It's like a memory refresher for me.
Other than the heartwarming stories on Ramadan cultures, food and music, Salaam, with Love also tackled the idea of Islamophobia among the societies. Dua has been in a sheltered community back in her hometown, but New York's a different story. When she faced the Islamophobia first-hand, it scarred her ideology of the perfect world and I resonated with her in that moment.
Although I love Hassan, truly, but I felt like the romance needed more substance on why exactly they liked each other from the first sight. But other than that, I have to admit that their relationship is one of the cutest one in the most halal way!
I would totally recommend this book if you're looking for a Ramadan read or even a book with great muslim representation. Thank you Times Reads for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
April 17, 2022
my heart is full.
i love this book so much!!!
very fitting to read during ramadan because it's set during ramadan, but seriously it can be read anytime haha.
i love how i can relate to the main character who wants to understand better about her religion, i love how she accepts her religion, and her heritage.
if you want a glimpse of how muslim practice their religion, this book was very good at capturing it!! (the praying, the quran reading, the no touching thing🥺💓)
i love the family story, all of the family members have my heart. especially Mahdi<3 tbh all the characters are so lovable!! <3
the friendship and the romance also top notch. halal relationship but still a hundred percent cute and sweet?!! yes<3
this book made me smile giggle and cry!! the part of what happened to Adam!!💔
i wish the book was longer.
tw: islamophobia
i love this book so much!!!
very fitting to read during ramadan because it's set during ramadan, but seriously it can be read anytime haha.
i love how i can relate to the main character who wants to understand better about her religion, i love how she accepts her religion, and her heritage.
if you want a glimpse of how muslim practice their religion, this book was very good at capturing it!! (the praying, the quran reading, the no touching thing🥺💓)
i love the family story, all of the family members have my heart. especially Mahdi<3 tbh all the characters are so lovable!! <3
the friendship and the romance also top notch. halal relationship but still a hundred percent cute and sweet?!! yes<3
this book made me smile giggle and cry!! the part of what happened to Adam!!💔
i wish the book was longer.
tw: islamophobia
January 5, 2022
"Salaam, With Love" by Sara Sharaf Beg is a YA upcoming release - & made me feel more conflicted over a Muslamic YA book than I ever have before!
Dua Sheikh is heading to New York to spend Ramadan with her cousins, whom she hasn't seen in years. Though she dreads it initially, Dua comes to have a new appreciation for both her family and her faith.
Honestly, this book is so well-written, & there's a surprising amount of Islamic content for a mainstream published YA book! There is heavy emphasis on Dua's growing spirituality, her Ramadan goals, & focus on improving as a Muslim.
Unfortunately, there's also a completely unnecessary emphasis on music - Dua's dream is to study the piano, her cousins are in a Muslim band (?!), & the hot dude that Dua immediately starts crushing on is both a drummer for the band &... a haafidh. Which leads to weird scenes like Hassan (hot haafidh dude) teaching her Qur’an in a private setting (which gave me very weird Fatih Seferagic vibes - although Hassan's character is not creepy at all, thankfully).
The trend of normalizing encouraging music in Muslamic books really irritates me, & to see it in this book was very disappointing.
In fact, the entire story could have done without the music storyline entirely; it even fades out mid-point during the story - which made it more annoying when it was shoehorned back in at the end. The focus of faith & family is truly beautiful, & I love how the author created such a touching connection between Dua & her cousins.
The teen romance between Dua & Hassan wasn't totally awful - tbh it was on the same level of SK Ali's teen romances - & the ending was admittedly cute (and halal lol).
While I could never add this to the madrasah library collection, I'll definitely be hanging onto it for myself! I look forward to the author's future books, though I hope they do away with the problematic music stuff.
Dua Sheikh is heading to New York to spend Ramadan with her cousins, whom she hasn't seen in years. Though she dreads it initially, Dua comes to have a new appreciation for both her family and her faith.
Honestly, this book is so well-written, & there's a surprising amount of Islamic content for a mainstream published YA book! There is heavy emphasis on Dua's growing spirituality, her Ramadan goals, & focus on improving as a Muslim.
Unfortunately, there's also a completely unnecessary emphasis on music - Dua's dream is to study the piano, her cousins are in a Muslim band (?!), & the hot dude that Dua immediately starts crushing on is both a drummer for the band &... a haafidh. Which leads to weird scenes like Hassan (hot haafidh dude) teaching her Qur’an in a private setting (which gave me very weird Fatih Seferagic vibes - although Hassan's character is not creepy at all, thankfully).
The trend of normalizing encouraging music in Muslamic books really irritates me, & to see it in this book was very disappointing.
In fact, the entire story could have done without the music storyline entirely; it even fades out mid-point during the story - which made it more annoying when it was shoehorned back in at the end. The focus of faith & family is truly beautiful, & I love how the author created such a touching connection between Dua & her cousins.
The teen romance between Dua & Hassan wasn't totally awful - tbh it was on the same level of SK Ali's teen romances - & the ending was admittedly cute (and halal lol).
While I could never add this to the madrasah library collection, I'll definitely be hanging onto it for myself! I look forward to the author's future books, though I hope they do away with the problematic music stuff.
April 12, 2022
Rating: 5/5 wonderful, wholesome stars 🌟
My sister and I got this book from Kinokuniya in a whim bc it was Muslim rep and the premise sounded promising. And it was more than we could’ve hoped for! When everyone said this was the perfect read for Ramadan, they were right!
I usually get skeptical for Muslim rep books (especially if they were a coming of age book) but I think the author nailed this one off the park bc this was so so beautifully written and was such a wonder to read. I love how the author represented Muslims in our Holy Month Ramadan so so well and all the activities we do in this month - the whole Ramadan vibe was so incredible with family gatherings for iftar, sahur and so much more. It was so relatable and as a practising Muslim who absolutely love the month of Ramadan, this was a relatable ride and a whole joy to read 😭😭❤️❤️
I genuinely picked it up for the romance but I stayed for the family relationships. But the romance, was still so so sweet 😭 I get so many butterflies!!! The Mousawis Men really are the bar huh? A family of Hafizs and soft-spoken people. Oh and they love music too? PLEASE where do I find one? 😭
This book has also actually made me reflect a lot on myself of my own religion. Somehow, Dua’s Ramadan checklist has became mine. I’ve learned a lot of things through this book and it actually made me want to be a better Muslim. Bless you, Sara.
I’m really glad I picked this up during Ramadan, I genuinely couldn’t think of a better time. My muslim friends, I highly recommend u guys to read this book during this Holy month and for my non-muslim friends, please read this book if you want to have an inside look of how we Muslims celebrate this Holy Month 🤍
My sister and I got this book from Kinokuniya in a whim bc it was Muslim rep and the premise sounded promising. And it was more than we could’ve hoped for! When everyone said this was the perfect read for Ramadan, they were right!
I usually get skeptical for Muslim rep books (especially if they were a coming of age book) but I think the author nailed this one off the park bc this was so so beautifully written and was such a wonder to read. I love how the author represented Muslims in our Holy Month Ramadan so so well and all the activities we do in this month - the whole Ramadan vibe was so incredible with family gatherings for iftar, sahur and so much more. It was so relatable and as a practising Muslim who absolutely love the month of Ramadan, this was a relatable ride and a whole joy to read 😭😭❤️❤️
I genuinely picked it up for the romance but I stayed for the family relationships. But the romance, was still so so sweet 😭 I get so many butterflies!!! The Mousawis Men really are the bar huh? A family of Hafizs and soft-spoken people. Oh and they love music too? PLEASE where do I find one? 😭
This book has also actually made me reflect a lot on myself of my own religion. Somehow, Dua’s Ramadan checklist has became mine. I’ve learned a lot of things through this book and it actually made me want to be a better Muslim. Bless you, Sara.
I’m really glad I picked this up during Ramadan, I genuinely couldn’t think of a better time. My muslim friends, I highly recommend u guys to read this book during this Holy month and for my non-muslim friends, please read this book if you want to have an inside look of how we Muslims celebrate this Holy Month 🤍
May 11, 2024
⭐️3.4
There were certain aspects of the book which I did not agree about and felt put off by but the rest of it was nice to read.There was no real plot tbh but what I liked was how the author addressed islamaphobia and how it affects people that experience it. This book in a way made me think of myself and my relationship with Allah,with others and how we can and should always strive to change our lives bit by bit to become better people both religiously and socially.
There were certain aspects of the book which I did not agree about and felt put off by but the rest of it was nice to read.There was no real plot tbh but what I liked was how the author addressed islamaphobia and how it affects people that experience it. This book in a way made me think of myself and my relationship with Allah,with others and how we can and should always strive to change our lives bit by bit to become better people both religiously and socially.
February 21, 2022
very very pleasantly surprised with this one! it addresses all the bittersweet topics of belonging, religion, desi culture, etc etc and i definitely learnt SO MUCH. all the characters were so lovable and i was rooting for every single one of them and the respective character relationships, esp DASSAN??? MY LOVES??? HASSAN AND DUA MY BBYS, that ending was so entirely perfect and was precisely everything i needed. where's the wedding(s) novella??? just kidding! (unless....!!??) highly highly HIGHLY recommend, zoomed thru this so fast bc i couldn't put it down. immediate favourite and got me out of my slump so I'll forever be grateful :'))
January 17, 2024
4.5 GOLD stars ✨
GOLD fish stars
Nyom nyom 🤤🤤
Ate
🍽️
My plate after reading this
I’m going to be honest though, was Dua kinda annoying in the beginning? Yeah, she was giving single child brat vibes but that wore off the more she got comfortable with her cousins. And I’m not saying I kin Mahnoor but I also might a little. Like damn girly, you didn’t have to expose our feelings and emotions and vulnerabilities like that.
Adding this author to my warm hug, big fuzzy blanket and painting our nails together list.
GOLD fish stars
Nyom nyom 🤤🤤
Ate
🍽️
My plate after reading this
I’m going to be honest though, was Dua kinda annoying in the beginning? Yeah, she was giving single child brat vibes but that wore off the more she got comfortable with her cousins. And I’m not saying I kin Mahnoor but I also might a little. Like damn girly, you didn’t have to expose our feelings and emotions and vulnerabilities like that.
Adding this author to my warm hug, big fuzzy blanket and painting our nails together list.
May 15, 2022
4.5 stars
this book was so cutie. at first, I wasn't really getting into it, but once Haya and Hassan were introduced (like in the second chapter; I feel like I'm being dramatic now) I was hooked. I felt all the good feelings reading this. the vibes were soft and warm. and this book really inspired me to focus more on my faith and prayers; I felt like I was on this spiritual journey with Dua.
the way Islam was portrayed was amazingly accurate and lovely. I think the author beautifully incorporated it into the story, making it a part of the characters' lives like it is a part of my life and every Muslim's life. she would introduce Islamic practices and beliefs and briefly explain them without breaking the flow of any events or plot lines. I think this is the first time I have read a book with an MC so close to who I am and how I identify, and it wasn't inaccurate or boring at all. it was a sweet, beautiful story with every element balanced perfectly.
THE ROMANCE WAS SO HALAL. people. I have never read anything like this. it was so refreshing and beautiful. it had all the butterfly feelings and sweetness and fluff of any romance novel but they barely even touched at all. I loved every MOMENT.
the only small thing that bothered me was the style of the writing; it was just hard for me to stay focused on each line. I kept going back and rereading lines, or skipping ahead and missing lines, instead of reading regularly like a normal person. I honestly don't know why it was so difficult for me since the writing is uncomplicated and easy to understand; maybe I was just impatient or didn't want to miss a single word. and, at times, it felt like I was missing something, like the narrator was jumping to another scene or setting without letting me know first.
other than that, though, this was spectacular. I recommend it to everyone. literally. go buy it and read it right now. it will lift your mood and give you warm fuzzies and just all-around make you happy.
this book was so cutie. at first, I wasn't really getting into it, but once Haya and Hassan were introduced (like in the second chapter; I feel like I'm being dramatic now) I was hooked. I felt all the good feelings reading this. the vibes were soft and warm. and this book really inspired me to focus more on my faith and prayers; I felt like I was on this spiritual journey with Dua.
the way Islam was portrayed was amazingly accurate and lovely. I think the author beautifully incorporated it into the story, making it a part of the characters' lives like it is a part of my life and every Muslim's life. she would introduce Islamic practices and beliefs and briefly explain them without breaking the flow of any events or plot lines. I think this is the first time I have read a book with an MC so close to who I am and how I identify, and it wasn't inaccurate or boring at all. it was a sweet, beautiful story with every element balanced perfectly.
THE ROMANCE WAS SO HALAL. people. I have never read anything like this. it was so refreshing and beautiful. it had all the butterfly feelings and sweetness and fluff of any romance novel but they barely even touched at all. I loved every MOMENT.
the only small thing that bothered me was the style of the writing; it was just hard for me to stay focused on each line. I kept going back and rereading lines, or skipping ahead and missing lines, instead of reading regularly like a normal person. I honestly don't know why it was so difficult for me since the writing is uncomplicated and easy to understand; maybe I was just impatient or didn't want to miss a single word. and, at times, it felt like I was missing something, like the narrator was jumping to another scene or setting without letting me know first.
other than that, though, this was spectacular. I recommend it to everyone. literally. go buy it and read it right now. it will lift your mood and give you warm fuzzies and just all-around make you happy.
March 27, 2023
4.5 - 4.75 Stars ***
As a Pakisani Muslim myself, I don't rlly like reading books that represent my culture or my religion. Most of those books usually have bad rep and they just make me uncomfortable, so thats why I was a bit hesitant on reading this book. But oh my god this book had amazing representation! From the islamic concepts and verses to cultural dishes and dresses- It was all so comforting and relatable to read.
The romance in this book was just so wholesome and cute, while still being halal, and it just warmed my heart so much, I couldn't stop smiling while reading it. All of the scenes just melted my heart, from Hassan teaching Dua the Quran, to him still respecting her and his religon by not touching her when she got hurt, and rather waking his sister in the middle of the night to do it even though he was worried about her. For once this was actually a realistic love representation between two Muslims that showed them still obliging to their religion despite having feelings for each other.
Not only was the romance in this book absolutely delightful, but it also showed Dua getting stronger in her faith and in her roots and culture. Not only her individul faith, but it also touched upon islamaphobia and emphasized the general authenticity and beauty of Islam and how so many people precieve it the wrong way. It made me tear up alot of times to see her love for our god increase and grow, and it made me yearn to increase my love and faith in him as well.
Just one of the things that put me off a bit- was how they were still listening and practicing music in Ramadan. Like ofocurse I myself do listen to music and am in no means better, but I just found it a bit odd how it was during Ramadan. They were also just some other aspects like her wearing short sleeves, and her hugging and touching her cousins and some other relatives even though they also weren't her Mahram. Idk, maybe there are some people who do see all of these as the norms, but it was just a bit odd for me atleast.
Despite all that, it was srsly a great comfort read, which I related to on another level, and I would definitely recommend it.
As a Pakisani Muslim myself, I don't rlly like reading books that represent my culture or my religion. Most of those books usually have bad rep and they just make me uncomfortable, so thats why I was a bit hesitant on reading this book. But oh my god this book had amazing representation! From the islamic concepts and verses to cultural dishes and dresses- It was all so comforting and relatable to read.
The romance in this book was just so wholesome and cute, while still being halal, and it just warmed my heart so much, I couldn't stop smiling while reading it. All of the scenes just melted my heart, from Hassan teaching Dua the Quran, to him still respecting her and his religon by not touching her when she got hurt, and rather waking his sister in the middle of the night to do it even though he was worried about her. For once this was actually a realistic love representation between two Muslims that showed them still obliging to their religion despite having feelings for each other.
Not only was the romance in this book absolutely delightful, but it also showed Dua getting stronger in her faith and in her roots and culture. Not only her individul faith, but it also touched upon islamaphobia and emphasized the general authenticity and beauty of Islam and how so many people precieve it the wrong way. It made me tear up alot of times to see her love for our god increase and grow, and it made me yearn to increase my love and faith in him as well.
Just one of the things that put me off a bit- was how they were still listening and practicing music in Ramadan. Like ofocurse I myself do listen to music and am in no means better, but I just found it a bit odd how it was during Ramadan. They were also just some other aspects like her wearing short sleeves, and her hugging and touching her cousins and some other relatives even though they also weren't her Mahram. Idk, maybe there are some people who do see all of these as the norms, but it was just a bit odd for me atleast.
Despite all that, it was srsly a great comfort read, which I related to on another level, and I would definitely recommend it.
June 10, 2023
I WANT MUSLIM LOVE LIKE THIS ONE.
I felt like I could relate to literally everything in this book, from the fasting of Ramadan and the Islam-related endeavors to the piano playing and trying to fit as a Muslim in America.
I'm so glad I didn't read this during Ramadan, otherwise I would have been craving food the entire day (if I wasn't already). The amount of food in this book that was talked about... even my parents would have been slightly surprised.
Dua and Hassan are the absolute best ship in history, I don't care what anyone says. The best love is halal love, and Dua and Hassan mixed up their love for Islam (reciting Quran together, which I loved) and music (the band <33333) perfectly. The ending was absolutely beautiful. I loved Mahnoor and Azhar so much as well! Why is everyone so unbelievably cute in this book?
I love how connected this family is, how they always had iftar together during Ramadan and how they went through everything together.
When I read through the bits of the book where Beg showed how people inflicted hate on Muslims (especially when Adam got shot - who would shoot a 12 year old???!!!), it made me really mad. I never understood why Muslim hate (or any hate) existed, since America's supposed to be a free country where we can practice whatever we believe in and not need to get judgement from everyone else. I loved how Mahnoor, Haya and Dua stood up for that, and it makes me feel so much better as a Muslim myself.
This book was so wholesome and beautiful, and I feel so much more confident in myself and so much closer to my religion after reading this!
I felt like I could relate to literally everything in this book, from the fasting of Ramadan and the Islam-related endeavors to the piano playing and trying to fit as a Muslim in America.
I'm so glad I didn't read this during Ramadan, otherwise I would have been craving food the entire day (if I wasn't already). The amount of food in this book that was talked about... even my parents would have been slightly surprised.
Dua and Hassan are the absolute best ship in history, I don't care what anyone says. The best love is halal love, and Dua and Hassan mixed up their love for Islam (reciting Quran together, which I loved) and music (the band <33333) perfectly. The ending was absolutely beautiful. I loved Mahnoor and Azhar so much as well! Why is everyone so unbelievably cute in this book?
I love how connected this family is, how they always had iftar together during Ramadan and how they went through everything together.
When I read through the bits of the book where Beg showed how people inflicted hate on Muslims (especially when Adam got shot - who would shoot a 12 year old???!!!), it made me really mad. I never understood why Muslim hate (or any hate) existed, since America's supposed to be a free country where we can practice whatever we believe in and not need to get judgement from everyone else. I loved how Mahnoor, Haya and Dua stood up for that, and it makes me feel so much better as a Muslim myself.
This book was so wholesome and beautiful, and I feel so much more confident in myself and so much closer to my religion after reading this!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2022
Salaam, With Love is a YA novel about Dua, a Pakistani-American teenager who spends Ramadan at her uncle's place and unexpectedly learns important lessons on family, faith and love. This was such a heart-warming book with a great Muslim representation (one of the best I have ever read tbh) 💗 Masha Allah. My heart is so full. I am really happy that books with Muslim characters like this one are being published, especially in the YA corner of the book community. 4.5/5 💫
The story turned out to be quite different than I expected it to be. It is cute and wholesome, yes, but the plot deals with some serious issues like Islamophobia as well. I loved how Dua's POV revolved around faith and how spiritually fulfilling Ramadan is in general. I wouldn't call this a romance novel because the plot doesn't focus solely on Dua and Hassan's blooming relationship. Salaam, With Love is more about a girl's journey of wholeheartedly connecting with Islam ~ and becoming a better person with her through her faith. I loved how different Surahs from the Quran were quoted throughout the book, and Dua's prayers (duas) for herself and her family were presented in the chapters too. ALSO, Dua and Hassan connected mostly because he helped her memorize verses from the Quran 🥺
I wish the issues that the book talked about, like Islamophobia and Mahnoor's concerns about her marriage ~ were more fleshed out. Those are my only complains about the book! I hope the author writes a sequel, though! Salaam, with Love has really motivated me in terms of religious aspects too. I am going to write a Ramadan Checklist every year from now onwards like the ones mentioned in the book :')
I received a digital review copy of Salaam, with Love from Penguin Random House International. All opinions are my own.
The story turned out to be quite different than I expected it to be. It is cute and wholesome, yes, but the plot deals with some serious issues like Islamophobia as well. I loved how Dua's POV revolved around faith and how spiritually fulfilling Ramadan is in general. I wouldn't call this a romance novel because the plot doesn't focus solely on Dua and Hassan's blooming relationship. Salaam, With Love is more about a girl's journey of wholeheartedly connecting with Islam ~ and becoming a better person with her through her faith. I loved how different Surahs from the Quran were quoted throughout the book, and Dua's prayers (duas) for herself and her family were presented in the chapters too. ALSO, Dua and Hassan connected mostly because he helped her memorize verses from the Quran 🥺
I wish the issues that the book talked about, like Islamophobia and Mahnoor's concerns about her marriage ~ were more fleshed out. Those are my only complains about the book! I hope the author writes a sequel, though! Salaam, with Love has really motivated me in terms of religious aspects too. I am going to write a Ramadan Checklist every year from now onwards like the ones mentioned in the book :')
I received a digital review copy of Salaam, with Love from Penguin Random House International. All opinions are my own.
April 26, 2022
A quick Book review 🌙
🍃Muslim love story
🍃well written
🍃YA
🍃 Islam vibes
🍃 🌟🌟🌟🌟⭐
• Today I come up with a very convincing short review about a book that I have read this week and I literally adore it!
• I think everyone should read it! Especialy teens!!! !Very inspiring and educative kind of book! I am glad I follow my dear friend recommendation @peri thank you so much sweet.
• The story is about a Muslim family, Dia and her parents is going to spend Ramadan with her uncle she will stay with them for the whole Month!!! uncle aunty and cousin(e)
• This is was Cuuuuuuuute, the whole vibe is great !!!! i absolutely loved dua, our protagonist, and all her cousins especially manhoor and Mahdi (that little one ! He is a ball of kindness) oh my heart ♥!!! and their friends, haya and her brothers !!!! who was so sweet!!!! i adored all the mentions of prayer, the struggles of waking up for suhoor during ramadan, the cooking of iftaar together. such a lovely book i wish i had read when i was a teen!! we don't have many ramadan-stories out there but this one is just amazing !! I like to feel relate to books! Make then looks so realistic
• The story got me hooked since the very beginning, I enjoyed and loved every part! Except for few conflicting islamic things.
the fact that they would listen to music during Ramadan. And while I know every Muslim practices differently, it felt strange to have it brought up so many times, especially because music isn't really allowed in Islam (and while I still struggle with that aspect of my faith I do tend to try and avoid it especially during Ramadan). That's the reason behind my rating i give it 4,8 🌟 but other than that! It's Amazing! Please read it 😂
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT TO EVERYONE 😊💘
🍃Muslim love story
🍃well written
🍃YA
🍃 Islam vibes
🍃 🌟🌟🌟🌟⭐
• Today I come up with a very convincing short review about a book that I have read this week and I literally adore it!
• I think everyone should read it! Especialy teens!!! !Very inspiring and educative kind of book! I am glad I follow my dear friend recommendation @peri thank you so much sweet.
• The story is about a Muslim family, Dia and her parents is going to spend Ramadan with her uncle she will stay with them for the whole Month!!! uncle aunty and cousin(e)
• This is was Cuuuuuuuute, the whole vibe is great !!!! i absolutely loved dua, our protagonist, and all her cousins especially manhoor and Mahdi (that little one ! He is a ball of kindness) oh my heart ♥!!! and their friends, haya and her brothers !!!! who was so sweet!!!! i adored all the mentions of prayer, the struggles of waking up for suhoor during ramadan, the cooking of iftaar together. such a lovely book i wish i had read when i was a teen!! we don't have many ramadan-stories out there but this one is just amazing !! I like to feel relate to books! Make then looks so realistic
• The story got me hooked since the very beginning, I enjoyed and loved every part! Except for few conflicting islamic things.
the fact that they would listen to music during Ramadan. And while I know every Muslim practices differently, it felt strange to have it brought up so many times, especially because music isn't really allowed in Islam (and while I still struggle with that aspect of my faith I do tend to try and avoid it especially during Ramadan). That's the reason behind my rating i give it 4,8 🌟 but other than that! It's Amazing! Please read it 😂
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT TO EVERYONE 😊💘
Displaying 1 - 30 of 543 reviews