This book was beautiful. There’s no other way to describe it, it was just so so beautiful. My love from Adam and Zayneb knows no bounds and this book just took it farther. Adam and Zayneb face so many trials in this book and how they persevere is a testament to the immense character growth. This book is a perfect sequel, as it shows us that even as they have their individual and couple conflicts, they’re still the characters we met in Love From A to Z, just a little more grown up.

I cried so much in this book. Not because it was sad (although anytime Adam brought up his mom, I was a goner) but because this book touched me in a way only S.K. Ali can do. Like Adam and Zayneb, I’ve been struggling recently. And this reminder of my faith and that there’s *always* time to turn to Allah SWT had me in tears. Perhaps not a part of the book that the non-Muslims could relate to, but good representation is always written with community in mind and this book was written by a Muslim for Muslims and it truly shows. I’m been wanting to do pilgrimage whether it’s Hajj or Umrah for a while and this book only intensified it. Inshallah one day 💜

As expected, this was the perfect sequel to Love From A to Z and Adam & Zayneb deserve the world. Also A & Z definitely did the “if I was a” trend before anyone else, it’s literally in the book

Received an ARC from Coloured Pages.

Full review loading…

I received a ARC from Colored Pages as part of the book tour. Zayneb and Adam are back and I couldn’t be more excited! They are honestly one of my favourite bookish couples. We first met Zayneb and Adam in Love from A to Z. In that book, they were in their late teens and their relationship with their selves, each other and those around them was still developing in many ways. In this book, they are a little older, have more adult problems and are both going through a lot. But they are still very much in love and filled with a deep desire to make a difference in the world in their unique ways.

I just loved the way SK Ali wrote the entire Umrah journey from the excitement to the nervousness to the sadness to the conflict. She captured so much of the experience perfectly. It was a little sad to see Zayneb and Adam who had such good communication lose a lot of that in this book. But that was all a part of their journey - I guess.

The ending was beautiful and I enjoyed the third narrator we got! ;)

All in all another stunner from SK Ali and an all-around beautiful book.

(I was provided with an e – ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions, thoughts and feelings expressed below are my own)

My Review:

Before delving into my review let me tell you, this is not just a simple love story. There’s more to this story, this story is the spiritual journey of a couple who are madly in love. No Hanky Panky here, just love, life and understanding. S.K Ali takes us to a different realm of spirituality through this book.

Zayneb living in Chicago completing her studies and Adam living in Qatar trying to find an art project to work on, they both were looking for a getaway so they could spend some quality time together. All their plans changed when Adam’s father brings up the idea of Umrah. Adam loves it and Zayneb, not much. But she was happy to be with Adam until she met Sarina, the woman Adam liked before he met Zayneb.

The first thing I liked about this book was the chapter headings. Every chapter heading was about an artifact that was related to their journey and each artifact had an interpretive label too. I found it fascinating!

I loved how relatable both the characters were. Zayneb as a woman who wears a hijab tries her best to prove herself in a world where everyone’s against her. as for Adam, he’s trying his best to be the perfect man for Zayneb. Their vulnerability, self- doubt and constant arguments in their heads felt very real. That was the most humane thing I noticed in these characters. I liked how these characters came with flaws instead of trying to be this perfect and powerful characters. Their struggle to be the best version of themselves is something that attracted me towards these characters than in Love from A to Z. The characters were extremely realistic. Loved Sasaun for being that boss lady! Her part in the story was very influential. Same goes with Janna. I love that cute woman for being so intelligent!

Every chapter had a beautiful reminder. Chapter five says “…giving charity doesn’t decrease wealth according to Islamic tradition, so I should be good” and this one Quranic verse was given in few places (if my memory serves me right) , “Verily, with every hardship, there is relief’ (Chapter 94: Verse 6). Every time I read it I felt so much peace within me, I was at the verge of tears. This is why I mentioned earlier, this wasn’t just a romance to me.

The way they misunderstood each other to finally accept each other was such a beautiful way of defining their relationship. Everything that happened between them, involving others was just another step to strengthen their relationship. the last few sentences of Chapter 8 are stuck in my head. How true it was, to not depend on a person but to depend on the lord himself to fill that gaping void inside you. I felt so grateful after reading that part. She took romance to another level! The sudden change of events made me feel so bad I could feel physical pain in my heart. (This is normal for a reader)

The story was a reminder, to set ones priorities straight and live in the moment. Like they did with each other and the creator.

The journey to Mecca was incredible! I have no words to describe it. It was so beautiful, I can still picture it. I bawled when they stood in front of Ka’aba. I stopped reading just to make a prayer to bless me, so that I can visit there one day too (In Shaa Allah). The way the author had described every step of Umrah, even a non- Muslim would easily understand it. It was written with so well that I saw everything like I was there, for real. 🥹 From Mecca to Medina, the way events took place, that was the best part for me! The pain of separation, being misunderstood, miscommunication and not being able to talk to each other at all. It was torture! But that came with more learnings. Sasaun was portrayed like a very strict woman at this point but she was right all along, they needed the break. The journey from Makkah to Madina was awakening. The journey has always been a special one isn’t it? Since the days of Prophet (PBUH) the journey was considered the most enlightening and S. K Ali definitely knew how to utilize the fact! Well done! ♥️

The story also had slightly touched upon discrimination against minority groups. I was so furious about Murie, I wanted to crush her to a pulp!

This book made me laugh and bawl while reading. It was such a heart warming read. Unputdownable!

S. K Ali has made a 100% successful attempt at writing a book that talks about Muslims in a very simple way. A story that will help you discover yourself. This ain’t no ordinary love story, it’s a spiritual journey that’ll help you discover yourself. It’s a story that tells you how important the this moment, the present is and how important your sanity is.

If you loved ‘Love from A to ZA sequel worth reading! Enjoyed every bit of it! If you’re looking for light read with realistic characters and beautiful reminders, this is the book you’ve been looking for.

“There is a door of hope in every moment of life that remains”

I devoured it. I started the book and couldn't stop reading which is what usually happens when I read any S. K. Ali. book. The way the characters are always so flushed out and relatable pulls me into their stories in a way that is like listening to a friend tell you about their day.

I would love to meet zayned irl I would love to actually listen to her talk about her day. We all know that she is probably the character I've connected to the most, the character I'm also most protective of and this doesn't change even now. I actually love her more after this sequel because she seems so much more human.

I know I focus alot on her but every other character in this book makes me happy. Adam and his very real problems, henna, zaynebs roomates, layth and jannah. I'm in awe with S. K. Ali's characterisation and the way she doesn't shy away from talking about racism, islamophobia and even internal struggles that we face because of or unrelated to them.

I've been to umrah before and when I tell you this book transported me back to that time I'm not exaggerating. The way the two of them describe their experiences and their feelings as they're doing umrah hit so close to home it brought tears to my eyes because i can just feel their passion.

To think this book that is filled with quotes from the Quran is going be everywhere on the globe (inshallah) fills me with indescribable joy.

I was as usual rooting for them (and cursing at Adam a little) throughout the whole book and it didn't disappoint me one bit. I will forever be empty now that their story is over but I'll also forever be thankful that I got to read it.

Four years after the events of Love from A to Z, Adam Zayneb is trying their best to make their long-distance marriage work. Zayneb is dealing with the pressures of school, navigating what it means to have a frenemy, and missing Adam desperately. Adam is still dealing with his health issues due to multiple sclerosis and he’s not always honest about his health issues with Zayneb. They both have outside factors that they don’t really share with one another, and it weighs on them both.

When they get a chance to be together to perform an Umrah (pilgrimage to Mecca) they both jump at the chance to reconnect and enjoy a life-changing experience together. The trip doesn’t go exactly smooth, especially when Adam’s ex-love interest shows up and Adam and Zayneb have to decide their future together despite the upheaval in their relationship.

Love from Mecca to Medina is a fascinating look into a relationship where secrets threaten to overwhelm you. Zayneb not telling Adam the entire truth about her challenges in Chicago isn’t out of malice, she simply doesn’t want him to stress about anything in addition to what he deals with. And Adam does the same, omitting certain aspects of his struggles for the same exact reason. There is a bit of distrust between the two and more than once I felt like whispering, “Tell the other the truth!” but it does add to some tension and moves the plot along once it becomes impossible not to be honest with each other. I also really felt Zayneb’s struggles with not being entirely present for a very significant spiritual trip because of all of the other things on her mind.

Love from Mecca to Medina is a fast read and my favorite aspect was the descriptions of the cities Adam and Zayneb visit. However, I would absolutely encourage readers to read the Prequel first to truly understand and connect with these two lovely characters.

Rating 3.5 stars

This book is a reminder of how revolutionary it is to have a Muslim author write such an authentic, awe-inspiring, scream-into-your pillow, Muslim love story. To have these characters at our fingertips that make us feel like our diary entries and day-to-day experiences have been taken and channeled into beautiful art.

This world is tough, the days are hard, but love prevails and this story wraps around you like a warm blanket to comfort you at the end of a long day. Love From Mecca to Medina feels like a love letter to Adam, Zayneb and us all. There is not a single thing I would fault in this story. There is no pandering, no assimilating and no downplaying to be more palatable. This is a story about everyday Muslims that serves as a reminder that a truly wonderful author will treat their characters and readers kindly.

I love Bertha Fatima Chen Malik. I love Janna and Layth. I love Sausan. I love Mecca. I love Medina. I love Adam. I love Zayneb. I love Adam and Zayneb.

The romance aspect of this book is impeccable. Why did I feel like I was in the long distance relationship? Every two pages, I was ready to shake both Adam and Zayneb and yell at them to just talk, to do this, to do that. That's easier said than done isn't it? To tell people to clean up their act when in reality it's hard to see a way out. But we always make it through and it might not be a perfect ending, but that's the beauty of it because "there are no happily-ever-afters. There is only a story that begins anew each day." That's what makes this entirely a 5-star read for me. It's authentic down to the bone.

As I read this book, I was laughing at the camaraderie and friendships, sighing at the intimacy, giggling at how fun it is to see characters be messy, and absolutely floored at the exploration of Islamic pilgrimage. I've never been but I plan to one day soon and the longing I felt while reading will stay with me for a while.

And finally - this story goes beyond just a Muslim, halal love story. It's a love letter to Muslim folks and readers alike. S.K. Ali is staggeringly truthful and authentic in this story as she describes the reality of exploited migrant workers, racism and Islamophobia and living with a long-term disability. She's woven so many painful topics so expertly into one story. I absolutely loved reading about Adam's struggle with coming to terms with his disability. He was facing a mental blockade, imposter syndrome and the pressure of love and society that makes him feel like less. Seeing his growth and trajectory through the book made me so happy. I loved how memories of his mother, making friendships, and most importantly finding inner peace through God and the process of pilgrimage was so healing for him and his relationship with multiple sclerosis.

Zayneb will always be a big part of me. I see so much of myself and experiences in her. The anger at injustice in the world and the injustice towards her. There are so many layers to her story. I found myself feeling just as anxious as her throughout the story. She's so strong but when she breaks, she falls apart. Her relationship, her education, her friendships and more are in such a state of fracture it seems difficult to find a way out but as always, our girl Zayneb does. When she decides to take charge and follow the process with due diligence and leave the rest and her intentions with God and goes to pilgrimage for herself this time? I was in absolute shambles. That level of healing and resolve was just so inspiring.

My heart kept breaking and healing in cycle. S.K. Ali never forgets the healing either. There are no happily ever afters but there is the effort and the intention and the hope that things will be better for everyone. Sequels can often feel like your favourite characters are being through the spin cycle for no good reason. This story is not that. Adam and Zayneb come out of this stronger than ever and the trials and tribulations they go through make them so much more three dimensional than I could have thought. This is a book of a lifetime and will be a top 10 for me forever.

Firstly, let’s just establish the fact how amazing this book is, and how nobody can ever convince me otherwise. Full stop.
The emotions the book made me feel was unbelievable!! It made me laugh out loud, want to cry and sometimes I may have wanted to knock some sense into some of the characters!!
Anyway, as soon as the book begins and in each ‘part’ it starts with an Ayat (Quranic verse) and this small thing really touched my heart and brought a smile to my face before the book even began. This story is so beautiful and even though it’s a (very halal since they’ve had their Nikah) love story, even more than that, it is a spiritual journey that takes them through Umrah and shows the hardship of balancing Dunya (worldly things) and Deen (religion) through 2 -unfortunately- fictional characters in such a relatable way that I’m sure will call out to many Muslims out there.
SK Ali’s description of going to Umrah and that journey is impeccable and I’m telling you I could actually feel and see everything that Adam and Zayneb could. The story put such a strong longing in my heart to go to Umrah myself InshAllah that I will be non stop begging my parents to take me now!! May SK Ali be rewarded and gain lots of Hassanat for bringing me and many others I’m sure, closer to our faith 🤲
Another thing that I love about this book is that it is not only for Muslims but also for non Muslims who wish to be educated in Islam and what our religion really means to us and the pilgrimages that we take. It beautifully narrates everything in an incredible and simple way. Muslim representation (well, all rep) is really important and the way SK Ali shows Muslim characters means so much to me and seeing characters who actually look like I do is honestly amazing.
Ok, fine. Adam and Zayneb. I WAS SO EXCITED TO MEET THEM AGAIN AND I MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE SCREAMED WHEN I FOUND OUT I WAS GETTING AN ARC OF ONE OF MY MOST ANTICIPATED READS OF THE YEAR. I am so grateful to Coloured pages bookish tours for giving me this copy! I absolutely love Adam and Zaynab and this book and journey made them look deeper inside themselves and this spiritual journey helps them both in different ways that made me really really happy!! Also, SK Ali introduces a new character in this book that I assure you will sometimes make you want to scream/punch/fight her. I’m sorry but it’s true -and the way Zayneb handled it all in the end was honestly amazing and a big character arc for her (can’t say much without spoilers!). Of course, there are also new characters that made itself a new place in my heart and other old characters who make their way into this one which is extremely fun!!
Overall, SK Ali really pulled out all the stops for this book and outdid herself to create this absolutely exquisite book.

Love From Mecca to Medina follows Adam and Zayneb on the trip of a lifetime – Umrah. An Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Umrah is the time for Adam and Zayneb to reunite – unfortunately, under stressful circumstances for both of them.

I absolutely loved Love From A to Z, and I was excited to be reunited with Adam and Zayneb! This story really put my emotions through the ringer, y’all. I was frustrated, I was crying, I was laughing, and I was deeply touched by everything that happened within these pages. The majority of the story focuses on the spiritual journey Zayneb and Adam go through that ultimately brings them together, when every step of the way felt like it was tearing them apart.

S.K. Ali is an incredible writer. This book is educational, romantic (and Halal!), and beautifully poignant. I learned so much more about Umrah, the Ka’aba, and the beauty of Islam. Ali taught me so much through Adam and Zayneb’s story, and so made me want to learn even more. And that is the true power of a writer.

I absolutely loved Love From Mecca to Medina, and I deeply appreciate S.K. Ali’s impressive work. You can see the love and dedication Ali has, and how important Muslim and Islamic representation is for her. I appreciated how Ali does not shy away from the xenophobia and Islamophobia Muslims face throughout this book, as well as what Umrah entails, emotionally and physically.

I love Adam and Zayneb’s love, and I love how they are perfectly imperfect characters. I love how realistic and honest they are with themselves, and how hard they work to make their relationship work. I of course was very frustrated with the extreme lack of communication on both their parts throughout Umrah, but the ending ultimately made up for it.

All in all, this was a beautiful and impactful sequel, and I cannot wait to learn more about Hajj, too.

Wow did I love this book. I have loved all of S.K. Ali's books, but this one in particular felt so true to life as Zeynab and Adam try to navigate long distance, their faith, and just being two young people in love. I learned quite a bit about Umrah (I am not Muslim), and it never felt heavy-handed. Also, Adam's multiple sclerosis is shared with the reader in a way that is full of love and empathy. Zeynab and Adam's relationship isn't without its miscommunication issues, but they kindly keep coming back to each other and working it out. I think that sets a great example for young people who are also in their first serious relationships. I just love that all of the characters have real depth, real issues, and also so much heart. Highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley for the digital ARC of this book.

Having previously enjoyed reading 'Love from A to Z' I was very excited when I finally found the sequel on Net Galley. What I love the most about these two books is that the characters are very real. It is not every day that you find a book with Muslim characters that are not portrayed as doing things against their faith to make them realistic.
While there are parts of the story that were predictable and somewhat absurd, that does not alter the nice fuzzy feeling you get from reading about Zainab and Adam's love for each other. S.K. Ali has found a niche and is able to write stories that make Muslim readers like me happy.

The story of Zayneb and Adam began with the book Love from A to Z. This continuation of their stories, both individual and connecting, was as sweet as honey and as exuberant as the buzzing of bees.

This book took me on a journey with the characters and had me reflecting on my own mind as Zayneb and Adam travelled to Mecca and Medina for their Umrah. Through the building stresses of each of their lives, they strive for clarity and guidance while their relationship hits a giant bump in the road.

I absolutely devoured this book. From page one the humor, style, and heart of this book will pull readers in and have them wanting to reside in the beautiful atmosphere S. K. Ali has created.

Every time I recall this book I will be grateful to have met Zayneb and Adam.

Thank you to #NetGalley, S.K. Ali, and the publisher of the book for the eARC copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Adam and Zayneb are perfectly matched but very far apart from each other, so when they get the chance to spend the week of Thanksgiving on a pilgrimage from Mecca to Medina, they jump at the chance. The trip is not at all what they expected though when Adam's former love shows up on the trip and drives a wedge between Zayneb and Adam. Will they be able to make their way back to each other while on an adventure of a lifetime?

A fun, cute, and easy YA read! Just the type of book I needed to start a much needed break for this teacher!

I was really excited for Love from Mecca to Medina, having loved Love From A To Z, but I was a little disappointed. I'm not a fan of books that hinge completely on the miscommunication trope, and wish that things were worked out a little earlier. That being said, I think the miscommunication trope was handled well. The sections of the book that were written from the cat's POV just took me out every time. Still, it was really nice to catch up with Zayneb and Adam!

SK Ali is one of the few authors I trust to write Muslim characters. For so long, Muslim characters have been distorted or shed of their religious values and identities. SK Ali understands that being "Muslim" is not just an ethnic, racial, or cultural, label -- it is a religious one, a choice that characters make. She neither villainizes nor victimizes nor romanticizes them--she humanizes them. And I love her books for it.

I really enjoyed this book. This was the perfect sophomore novel for this author. I was definitely looking forward to this book after reading her debut novel earlier this year and I was not disappointed.

I just want to put out a huge thanks to SK.Ali, Simons & Schuster/Salaam Reads and NetValley for allowing me to read the ARC!! I honestly don’t think I could have waited any longer to get my hands on “Love from Mecca to Medina”, I absolutely adore it😤

This book😭😭😭❤️
Finally, the accurate Muslim representation we all need - CHEFS KISS 👩🏻‍🍳🤌🏼

Sequel to my favourite romance of all time,“Love from A to Z”, we’ve been blessed with “Love from Mecca to Medina” - believe me you do not want to miss out. I consumed this book in 6 wondrous hours… yes its one of those books I COULD NOT PUT DOWN. Watch me reread until I get my next SK.Ali fix🤦🏻‍♀️

Seeing how Zainab and Adams relationship matures was an absolute delight, this book took me back to my days as an expat kid living in Saudi, love that Zainab and Adam have friends all over the world like I do and I guess it really plays into more representation of Muslims from different cultural backgrounds as well.

The spiritual aspect of it was a great added plus - really highlighted the struggles most of us Muslims face. I don’t want to get into it too much because I want to keep my review as spoiler free as possible 🙈 buttt Zainab served big time, pulling through her nafs - SOLVING HER PROBLEMS AND PROVIDING JUSTICE FOR SO MANY IN HER COMMUNITY? Queen Energy.

Can we just talk about the way Zainab and Adams brilliant child BERTHA FATIMA narrated this entire tale (no pun intended)?? SHE TRULY WAS SO CUTE?? When she face pawed herself??😂😂😂 I felt that - I, I really felt that.

The writing was beautiful - loved that exerts from the Qur’aan were used! Definitely an amazing around-the-world adventure that’s for sure🥹

AND THAT JANNAH AND LAYTH CAMEO!! ERRRM EXCUSE ME??? SK ALI YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING GURL!! Understood the assignment الحمدلله 😌

Watch me get everyone and their moms attached to this book as soon as it’s in stores!! 🏃🏻‍♀️🏃🏻‍♀️🏃🏻‍♀️

It’s always a pleasant read. The entire SK.Ali universe truly has my heart. Can’t wait for the next addition إن شاء الله ✨

4.5/5 stars.

Love From Mecca to Medina is a follow up to Love From A to Z, following Adam and Zayneb when they have already had their religious marriage ceremony (nikkah) but still live apart in their long-distant relationship. It delves into the struggles of long-distant relationships, being adults, and struggles of faith on top of all of this.

The novel started off slow, catching us up on what has changed in the past few years since the first book. Zayneb and Adam are officially together, but living apart across the sea from each other. Their thanksgiving break was originally supposed to be spent together away at a cottage, but due to last minute changes they instead embark on doing Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage.

There are a lot of ups and downs that come with this last minute decision, one of which is that there is a lack of private time for Adam and Zayneb to discuss what they've been going through in their time apart, and to discuss their relationship and future. There's a lot of miscommunication and, while I dislike this trope, it was realistic to see and not over-dramatized.

I enjoyed the latter half of the novel, as it picked up the pace and really delved into character development and into their relationship. As with every relationship, there are problems to be solved, and communication is key for that. It's a riveting novel that I enjoyed thoroughly.

I’m glad I reread Love from A to Z (+ annotated it) and reread The Eid Gift to prepare me for the sequel!
This book is perfect for you if you like amazing books with great poc, Muslim characters (with halal romance) and chronic illness representation.
You don’t have to be Muslim to enjoy this. I believe this book is a great way to see the beauty in Islam and humanizes us Muslims. It’s hard to find good Muslim rep that wasn’t written to appeal and appease non Muslims. So I’m thankful for S.K. Ali for writing unapologetic Muslim characters.

Now processing to the review:

First of all I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!! I’m always wary when it comes to reading sequels of my favorite books but this one was everything I wanted and more from a sequel!!

I genuinely loved the plot, combining love and religion in the most beautiful way. Turning me, a non romantic person, to a giggly blushing mess (does that even make sense?).

Reading this gave me flashbacks to my visits to Mecca, especially during my hajj. Unfortunately I have yet to visit Madina, though I hope to go there someday.

The miscommunication trope was present but in a way that made sense (frustrating because you want your favorite characters to be happy at all times), but was done in a realistic way.

Second of all, it was painful to read. Mainly because I related too much to some parts of the book which conjured a wave of anxiety that I was trying to avoid. Basically this book hit a little too close to home for me..
Some of the struggles these characters went was so relatable to me it felt like I was reading my own thoughts. The way S.K. Ali resolved these issues gave me hope. Instead of writing the typical “everything is magically resolved”, she wrote a realistic ending where the characters take matters into their own hands (the things they can control), and leaving the rest to Allah. The most merciful.

For me this book felt Allah sent, since it did bring up topics that I was avoiding (being jobless) into light. And she (S.K. Ali) handled it perfectly.

I can talk about this book (duology) all day but if you take one thing from this is that you should go buy Love from A to Z and read it if you haven’t already, and go preorder Love From Mecca to Madina!

Love from Mecca to Medina is such a cute follow up to Love from A to Z! I really enjoyed Book 1, but wasn't the biggest fan of the writing style. However, in Book 2, the writing and prose was really beautiful and drew me in. It's obvious from reading S.K. Ali's words how much care and craft goes into her characters, and even though I'm not Muslim myself, you can feel the joy through the pages of Adam and Zayneb's story as they develop an even deeper relationship with their faith and journey to the holiest city for Muslims. Even if their relationship became tumultuous at times, the two were so adorable and I could honestly read about them forever. It's definitely no secret that fans of Adam of Zayneb will love (no pun intended) Love From Mecca to Medina.

Love From Mecca to Medina follows Zayneb and Adam as they travel to Mecca and Medina to do Umrah over their Thanksgiving break. Although they've already had their nikah (gotten married), they've still been doing long-distance, with Zayneb at law school in Chicago while Adam continues to live with his family in Doha. Each is currently going through challenges that they, for whatever reason, have chosen not to tell the other about. They had been supposed to go on a romantic getaway to a cottage in England for the break, but when Adam's father offers to pay for them to go on a trip that's doing Umrah over the break instead, Adam unilaterally decides he wants to do that instead, leaving Zayneb to either go with him or not see him over the break.

This is only the first of many bad moves on Adam's part; the only other girl who he had ever had serious feelings for, Sarina, is also on the trip. She is an absolutely infuriating character. Simultaneously condescending and over-controlling while also acting morally above everybody else, she has recently gotten divorced and spends the entire trip acting extremely possessive of Adam, controlling all of his time and manipulating circumstances so that he and Zayneb barely see each other. Adam simply allows this, and never seems to care that Zayneb is constantly being excluded from everything.

These two literally went from being the absolute cutest couple in Love From A to Z and The Eid Gift to one of them (Adam) being completely horrible for most of the book. Sure, he didn't realize how Zayneb was affected by his actions until the end, but that is no excuse for how he behaved over the course of the entire book.

There are still a couple of good things about this book. Zayneb continues to be an icon; I adore her, and she deserved so much better than she was treated in this book. S.K. Ali continues to feature unapologetically Muslim representation, and, while I can't speak as to how good the rep is in this book (I'd recommend checking out some Muslim reviewers' takes on it), I do know that that representation is something that isn't often seen in YA (or any) literature.

Overall, despite wanting to love this book, I can't give it any more than 2.5 stars. If the miscommunication trope doesn't bother you that much, or you really just want to see how Adam and Zayneb's story turns out, then I'd recommend trying it, but I wish that I had just stopped reading the series with The Eid Gift.