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A review by mari1532
Ayesha at Last by Uzma Jalaluddin
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I own an electronic copy of this book but listened to the audiobook through my library with Libby.
Thoughts: I absolutely love Pride and Prejudice in all forms. So an updated and diverse version of the story sounded fantastic. Jalaluddin did not disappoint. She was able to bring in all of the things I love about the original story and update them for modern times. There is witty banter, miscommunication, relatives that make you cringe, and a romance that makes you swoon. I cannot recommend this book enough.
Ayesha is so well-rounded and loveable as a character. The way she struggles to balance family and societal expectations with her desires is the very definition of Elizabeth Bennet. I loved the way that her poetry made appearances throughout the book and how her wit was always on point.
Khalid was also a great rewriting of Mr. Darcy. He was brooding and traditional without going so far that you absolutely could not stand him. Also, the way that Jalaluddin changed the dynamics of Khalid's relationship with his sister was a beautiful nod to the original while also staying true to Jalaluddin's version.
Jalaluddin's writing is so enjoyable and this book keeps all the joys and intrigues of the original Pride and Prejudice. All of the characters are at once recognizable, but fresh. Highly recommend it for Austenites and romance readers alike.
Thoughts: I absolutely love Pride and Prejudice in all forms. So an updated and diverse version of the story sounded fantastic. Jalaluddin did not disappoint. She was able to bring in all of the things I love about the original story and update them for modern times. There is witty banter, miscommunication, relatives that make you cringe, and a romance that makes you swoon. I cannot recommend this book enough.
Ayesha is so well-rounded and loveable as a character. The way she struggles to balance family and societal expectations with her desires is the very definition of Elizabeth Bennet. I loved the way that her poetry made appearances throughout the book and how her wit was always on point.
Khalid was also a great rewriting of Mr. Darcy. He was brooding and traditional without going so far that you absolutely could not stand him. Also, the way that Jalaluddin changed the dynamics of Khalid's relationship with his sister was a beautiful nod to the original while also staying true to Jalaluddin's version.
Jalaluddin's writing is so enjoyable and this book keeps all the joys and intrigues of the original Pride and Prejudice. All of the characters are at once recognizable, but fresh. Highly recommend it for Austenites and romance readers alike.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Islamophobia, Religious bigotry, Gaslighting, and Classism
Moderate: Alcoholism