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KISMET - A DESI RHAPSODY IN LONDON
Kismet, A Desi Rhapsody in London is the story of Azra Majid who leaves Pakistan at the age of 14 to settle with relatives in Southall, during the 1970’s. This was when Britain saw an influx of many foreigners. Some came of their own free will while others left their homes because of dictatorial regimes that expelled them with only the clothes on their backs. Located in the West of London, the suburban district of Southall welcomed the newcomers earning the title of little India. It became home to many South Asian communities that included Indians, Pakistanis, Sikhs and Bangladeshis. Join Azra and her relatives, friends, and co-workers as they struggle with misunderstandings, secrets, forbidden and forgotten love. What has their kismet got in store for each one of them. Discover the answers to these intriguing questions and much more in this debut novel by Shaheen Darr.
- GenresFiction
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2015
About the author
Shaheen Darr
5 books30 followersI have been writing for an online writing site on various subjects including business and finance but it is fiction and poetry that interest me the most. From the random pages of my diary the why’s and what if’s were finally self published in two books, Soul Searching and The Spectrum of Life. I also self published my debut novel Kismet - A Desi Rhapsody in London in November 2015. The novel is fictional but reflects some of my experiences as an Asian woman living in Britain.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 7, 2016
An Asian version of Jane Austen
One of the things I liked best about Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London is the contrast between the traditional customs of the Islamic culture, e.g., arranged marriages, modest dresses, refined manners, etc., and the attitudes of the younger Asian generation in Southall and their adaptation to the modern British culture regarding objects such as cell phones, iPads, soap operas, popular music bands, and fashions--miniskirts, jeans, tattoos, etc. The Asian tradition still exerts its pull on the younger generation who are inclined to respect their elders.
Kismet follows the lives of several different characters. The author’s use of gossip and social connections as a means of driving the plot and building up or destroying reputations reminds me of nothing less than an Asian interpretation of certain Jane Austen novels. It is fascinating to read about how the different characters' destinies intertwine and how their fates often hinge on misunderstandings or chance encounters.
Author Darr has so much sensitivity in capturing the essence of each character's personality, dreams, ambitions, memories, insecurities, remorse, etc., from youth through old age with mature wisdom and understanding. Darr’s writing is so insightful and her characters so complex and self-contradictory that the story appears utterly realistic.
A modern Western reader such as myself is soon immersed in the exotic culture and the characters who entrance her. There is mystery here and the need for unraveling. There is also a great deal of romance here, which adds additional intrigue.
The only criticism I have about this book is that it had to come to an end. I wish I could go on reading it forever.
One of the things I liked best about Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London is the contrast between the traditional customs of the Islamic culture, e.g., arranged marriages, modest dresses, refined manners, etc., and the attitudes of the younger Asian generation in Southall and their adaptation to the modern British culture regarding objects such as cell phones, iPads, soap operas, popular music bands, and fashions--miniskirts, jeans, tattoos, etc. The Asian tradition still exerts its pull on the younger generation who are inclined to respect their elders.
Kismet follows the lives of several different characters. The author’s use of gossip and social connections as a means of driving the plot and building up or destroying reputations reminds me of nothing less than an Asian interpretation of certain Jane Austen novels. It is fascinating to read about how the different characters' destinies intertwine and how their fates often hinge on misunderstandings or chance encounters.
Author Darr has so much sensitivity in capturing the essence of each character's personality, dreams, ambitions, memories, insecurities, remorse, etc., from youth through old age with mature wisdom and understanding. Darr’s writing is so insightful and her characters so complex and self-contradictory that the story appears utterly realistic.
A modern Western reader such as myself is soon immersed in the exotic culture and the characters who entrance her. There is mystery here and the need for unraveling. There is also a great deal of romance here, which adds additional intrigue.
The only criticism I have about this book is that it had to come to an end. I wish I could go on reading it forever.
November 4, 2015
A sensational read with not an ounce of sensationalism. That’s my overall take on this multidimensional tale of life in Southall, London. Most stories quite rightly use something for shock value – romance, action, intrigue, horror…. Within this book there are no less than half a dozen incidents/circumstances that could be expounded and sensationalised, but they are not. Their masterly subtle telling is what gives this tale such depth and dimension – there for us to wonder and imagine as we experience the real lives of these humble, ordinary people…. This was a cultural journey for me. I’m sure readers from within will enjoy the familiar surrounds. I found the experience enlightening – also interesting in the way love finds a way, even if the original union has been arranged…. To me this novel reads as understated. It’s impressive the way the author leaves the conclusions to us – the way she gives us just enough to inspire contemplation. It reads as absolutely real and true to life, and, as such, fascinating!
November 5, 2015
From the very first page you are struck by how well this author writes. Her voice is considered, insightful, polished, thoughtful, and has a quiet elegance. It never grates or bores, and serves the story well. This is an impressive debut from a talented writer. The story captured my attention and drew me in right away. It was enjoyable, but more than that, it is a book that will much do more than entertain. It will give you a unique insight into life in London’s Asian community. With this book being loosely based on the author’s own experiences as a British-Pakistani woman, it has the unmistakable imprint of personal knowledge and first-hand experience. We experience life in Southall not as an outsider looking in, but from inside. In particular, the very different approach to dating and marriage will be eye-opening to Western readers. Kismet is a sensitive, thoughtful story steeped with a certain sadness and regret. The collision between past and present is very much a thread running through this story. A great novel for those wanting more than just entertainment.
November 7, 2015
Kismet is the fiction debut novel of poet, Shaheen Darr. Being a poet, she has a way with words, and this book was written in the same thoughtful manner.
It's the story of Azra, a Pakistani woman living in Southall, London, and the people in her life. These stories will give you an insight on what it's like to live in a place that has a completely different culture. The challenges encountered by the immigrants in the story is an eye-opener. How difficult is it to keep your identity and still conform and adapt?
The writing is authentic and you can tell that the author's personal experience has positively influenced her writing. There's nothing imagined or contrived in this novel. Everything is "described". It's a deep and relevant read.
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I'm glad I accepted. Highly recommended read.
It's the story of Azra, a Pakistani woman living in Southall, London, and the people in her life. These stories will give you an insight on what it's like to live in a place that has a completely different culture. The challenges encountered by the immigrants in the story is an eye-opener. How difficult is it to keep your identity and still conform and adapt?
The writing is authentic and you can tell that the author's personal experience has positively influenced her writing. There's nothing imagined or contrived in this novel. Everything is "described". It's a deep and relevant read.
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I'm glad I accepted. Highly recommended read.
November 9, 2015
Once in a while, a book comes along that opens our eyes to cultures and mindsets unfamiliar to some people. Kismet: a Desi Rhapsody in London is one of those rare novels that unlock new vistas without requiring us to travel. We can actually picture the sights and smells of the South Asian community in London. The author, a resident of the area, never fails to pull the reader into her world with her spot-on, poetic descriptions.
Kismet includes the interwoven stories of Pakistani immigrant, Azra Mohammed, her family, and her co-workers. Azra is an orphan who is sent to live in London during her early teens. In a realistic manner, the book deals with the culture shock and bigotry faced by the main character. East meets West as the two societies collide, and the second generation has to decide where they fit in.
The novel follows Azra through the mid-life years in the Southall area of London. Along the way, the reader is also introduced to the people who touch her life—for better or for worse. Their lives entwine in what the author calls kismet (fate, or destiny); hence, the title.
Above all, this novel is a study in human nature. This is the go-to book for readers interested in three-dimensional characters and believable plotlines. I guarantee that you will cheer, gasp, and be kept in suspense until the last page.
Who will have happy endings? Will every challenge be resolved? You have to read up to the last page to find out!
Kismet includes the interwoven stories of Pakistani immigrant, Azra Mohammed, her family, and her co-workers. Azra is an orphan who is sent to live in London during her early teens. In a realistic manner, the book deals with the culture shock and bigotry faced by the main character. East meets West as the two societies collide, and the second generation has to decide where they fit in.
The novel follows Azra through the mid-life years in the Southall area of London. Along the way, the reader is also introduced to the people who touch her life—for better or for worse. Their lives entwine in what the author calls kismet (fate, or destiny); hence, the title.
Above all, this novel is a study in human nature. This is the go-to book for readers interested in three-dimensional characters and believable plotlines. I guarantee that you will cheer, gasp, and be kept in suspense until the last page.
Who will have happy endings? Will every challenge be resolved? You have to read up to the last page to find out!
January 19, 2016
Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London tells the story of two Pakistani immigrant families living in the Southall district of London. We meet Azra Majid a woman whose husband left her years before, who wants to find a good husband for her adult daughter. She works for Abdul and Zorha Mizra who run a fashion shop and have a rebellious teenage daughter and a son, who they wish to match with a good wife. Although this may sound like the setup for a predictable romantic comedy, this novel deftly tells a much more engaging tale of lives that change through kismet, or fate. The older generation comes from a tradition of prayer, defined gender roles and arranged marriages. The younger generation struggles to find a path that maintains cultural identity but also allows women to find satisfying careers and romantic love to blossom. The lives of Azra, Abdul, Zorha, their children and their friends are all intricately woven around each other. Yes, there is romance, but as with real life, it's rarely predictable or simple. In some cases kismet leads the characters down good, solid paths, sometimes it provides second chances, sometimes it leads to heartbreak and loss. I was glad to know these families and spend time in their world.
November 4, 2015
The novel follows the fates of the members of two Pakistani immigrant families in the United Kingdom. As an anglophile who married into an Indian family who immigrated to the U.S. before my husband was born, I was interested as soon as I saw the lovely cover. The deft treatment of the cultural conflicts between immigrant parents and children, as well as the tension between assimilation and cultural preservation, was both realistic and emotionally effective. I also enjoyed the way she structured the novel, allowing us to see the events from various points of view.
The narratives are quite touching, exploring such themes as romance, betrayal, heartbreak, depression, tragedy, remorse, redemption, and, of course, kismet. The idea of fate is a fascinating one to me, one that sometimes allows people to make sense of the events of their lives, and one that carries through all the storylines.
Kismet is a lovely book, one I highly recommend for its skillful writing, lyrical descriptions, emotional impact, and charming characters. It is a book that will follow you out the door, like the smell of your mother’s house.
The narratives are quite touching, exploring such themes as romance, betrayal, heartbreak, depression, tragedy, remorse, redemption, and, of course, kismet. The idea of fate is a fascinating one to me, one that sometimes allows people to make sense of the events of their lives, and one that carries through all the storylines.
Kismet is a lovely book, one I highly recommend for its skillful writing, lyrical descriptions, emotional impact, and charming characters. It is a book that will follow you out the door, like the smell of your mother’s house.
November 4, 2015
A Beautiful Heart Wrenching Tale
Shaheen Darr’s Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London is a hauntingly beautiful tale about middle-aged single mother Azra Majid, who left Pakistan as a young girl to find a new life in the South Asian community in the Southall section of London. Azra has been forced to make her own way for herself and her daughter Sumaiya since Azra’s husband abandoned them when the girl was small. Their lives are intertwined with the lives of the Mirza family who has employed Azra for years. As the narrative plays out, each person’s kismet is revealed.
The story brings to mind Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club as it weaves an intergenerational tale that embraces the themes of family, love, failure, forgiveness, and the conflict of traditional versus contemporary values.
Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London is a terrific debut novel by a talented author. It’s not to be missed.
Shaheen Darr’s Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London is a hauntingly beautiful tale about middle-aged single mother Azra Majid, who left Pakistan as a young girl to find a new life in the South Asian community in the Southall section of London. Azra has been forced to make her own way for herself and her daughter Sumaiya since Azra’s husband abandoned them when the girl was small. Their lives are intertwined with the lives of the Mirza family who has employed Azra for years. As the narrative plays out, each person’s kismet is revealed.
The story brings to mind Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club as it weaves an intergenerational tale that embraces the themes of family, love, failure, forgiveness, and the conflict of traditional versus contemporary values.
Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London is a terrific debut novel by a talented author. It’s not to be missed.
January 9, 2016
Well written. Very nice read.
It's a glimpse at people I've never met before, just because I don't live near there. It was very genuine and heartfelt. I appreciate the detail of the depiction. The author captures and explains the immigrant experience very well.
It's a glimpse at people I've never met before, just because I don't live near there. It was very genuine and heartfelt. I appreciate the detail of the depiction. The author captures and explains the immigrant experience very well.
January 24, 2018
The story depicts the fortunes of two main families, some of whom follow traditional values that are different to what we see in ordinary British life, while others who are second-generation or third-generation British Asians are followers of an opposite viewpoint. The book is not wholly about that, though. At its core is a set of characters that draw the reader into their world. The reader becomes the fly on the wall, observing their daily lives and the past experiences that have shaped who they are. They are drawn with sympathy and I found it easy to become immersed in their lives and emotions.
The book begins with Azra, who immigrated to the UK in the 1970s, and we follow her fortunes and her history as revealed in conversations and interactions. This makes the story lively and interesting. Soon the tale shifts to Azra’s family, friends and work colleagues and we see the outlook of each of them and the reasons for their subsequent actions. The tale unfolds through the eyes of all the characters although Azra remains the main protagonist.
The writing is effective in portraying varied reactions, according to age, status and generation, to the conflict between following traditional customs or adopting those of the country the characters live in. Some of those customs – like arranged marriages – are strange and unworkable to the British way of thinking and for me the author’s depiction of conflicting attitudes is vivid and even-handed. It is done with compassion and a deep understanding of the rule that changes take time and some are not always for the good.
This is an evocative, thoughtful book in which the prose is delightful and owes much to the author’s talent as a poet. I can recommend it without reservation.
The book begins with Azra, who immigrated to the UK in the 1970s, and we follow her fortunes and her history as revealed in conversations and interactions. This makes the story lively and interesting. Soon the tale shifts to Azra’s family, friends and work colleagues and we see the outlook of each of them and the reasons for their subsequent actions. The tale unfolds through the eyes of all the characters although Azra remains the main protagonist.
The writing is effective in portraying varied reactions, according to age, status and generation, to the conflict between following traditional customs or adopting those of the country the characters live in. Some of those customs – like arranged marriages – are strange and unworkable to the British way of thinking and for me the author’s depiction of conflicting attitudes is vivid and even-handed. It is done with compassion and a deep understanding of the rule that changes take time and some are not always for the good.
This is an evocative, thoughtful book in which the prose is delightful and owes much to the author’s talent as a poet. I can recommend it without reservation.
January 8, 2016
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this story in exchange for a fair review.
“Kismet” examines the love lives of about ten characters, and manages to never lose sight of its coherent whole. While the main character is ostensibly Azra Mohammed into her story is woven the tales of her daughter, friends, and acquaintances. Each figure is punctuated by their own motivations, desires, and background. It is quite a feat for any author to work with a cast as large yet manage to have each thread both shine within but also support the complete tapestry.
This is a story that doesn’t concern itself with reaching its resolution quickly. It was instead content to let the characters build from dust to self-contained monoliths. While this slow build benefits the narrative overall as it places the necessary foundations I imagine this is a work for a reader with a little patience. It is however well rewarded as the narratives start to twist with cause and effect.
The results can be perhaps foreseen at times. I don’t want to spoil the plot too much but we have reunions with estranged relatives and cheated lovers. Nevertheless archetypes exist because of their mirrors in real life. None of Darr’s characters feel contrived. Their petty jealousies and desires never feel inexplicable or obnoxious. Even when a character behaves badly we understand why. The overall result is the feeling of dropping in a neighborhood and filled with people we recognize.
I do also want to draw attention to the sensitive portrayal of depression and mental illness. While the character’s decline is triggered by a very stressful event, looking back we can already see the warning signs. The withdrawal from family and feelings of isolation were well into play with the character before she was even exposed to the catalyst for her decline. It’s a subtlety many authors miss when portraying depression. The feelings are not simply feelings of despair, but it’s of being overwhelmed, of no longer being able to interact with other people, of longing for help in the same instant you reject it.
If you’re looking for slice-of-life romance, this is your book. I especially appreciated how the younger generation, while approaching the question of marriage on their own terms, didn’t eschew the wisdom of their elders. It’s a much more realistic portrayal of the actual culture shift than that of the more Western theme of totally eloping and completely cutting times with the disapproving family.
Some may balk at the idea of “kismet” being a governing force in one’s life. Nevertheless as the characters are confronted by their various could-haves, we see that given how unpredictable life is, it’s often a comforting rationalization. We will never know otherwise, so why not call it kismet? Those who are able to release their past get the brightest future.
“Kismet” examines the love lives of about ten characters, and manages to never lose sight of its coherent whole. While the main character is ostensibly Azra Mohammed into her story is woven the tales of her daughter, friends, and acquaintances. Each figure is punctuated by their own motivations, desires, and background. It is quite a feat for any author to work with a cast as large yet manage to have each thread both shine within but also support the complete tapestry.
This is a story that doesn’t concern itself with reaching its resolution quickly. It was instead content to let the characters build from dust to self-contained monoliths. While this slow build benefits the narrative overall as it places the necessary foundations I imagine this is a work for a reader with a little patience. It is however well rewarded as the narratives start to twist with cause and effect.
The results can be perhaps foreseen at times. I don’t want to spoil the plot too much but we have reunions with estranged relatives and cheated lovers. Nevertheless archetypes exist because of their mirrors in real life. None of Darr’s characters feel contrived. Their petty jealousies and desires never feel inexplicable or obnoxious. Even when a character behaves badly we understand why. The overall result is the feeling of dropping in a neighborhood and filled with people we recognize.
I do also want to draw attention to the sensitive portrayal of depression and mental illness. While the character’s decline is triggered by a very stressful event, looking back we can already see the warning signs. The withdrawal from family and feelings of isolation were well into play with the character before she was even exposed to the catalyst for her decline. It’s a subtlety many authors miss when portraying depression. The feelings are not simply feelings of despair, but it’s of being overwhelmed, of no longer being able to interact with other people, of longing for help in the same instant you reject it.
If you’re looking for slice-of-life romance, this is your book. I especially appreciated how the younger generation, while approaching the question of marriage on their own terms, didn’t eschew the wisdom of their elders. It’s a much more realistic portrayal of the actual culture shift than that of the more Western theme of totally eloping and completely cutting times with the disapproving family.
Some may balk at the idea of “kismet” being a governing force in one’s life. Nevertheless as the characters are confronted by their various could-haves, we see that given how unpredictable life is, it’s often a comforting rationalization. We will never know otherwise, so why not call it kismet? Those who are able to release their past get the brightest future.
January 29, 2017
It's a rare novel that can give you a true sense of going to other places, and a rarer one that can transport you into an entirely new culture. Kismet does more than a little of both, or at least, it did so for me. Featuring an expansive cast of characters, the book shows us the suburban London district of Southall through the lens of transplanted Pakistani family relationships and social customs. The focus begins on Azra, a single mother who works in a fabric shop and lives modestly in a flat with her newly adult daughter, Sumaiya. As we follow Azra, we learn that she harbors a dark secret in her past, one that she has told no one among her connections at work or her circle of friends. Slowly, though, these connections lead us into the lives of more and more characters, into their pasts, their dreams, their expectations of life. Tensions thrum between the characters of Azra's generation, all immigrants themselves, and their children, born and raised in Britain. The strictures and boundaries of Asian tradition intersect with the pull of European modernity -- all woven through with the recurring theme of fate or destiny: kismet.
Author Shaheen Darr tells the story in tightly contained prose, mirroring the often-confining formality with which her characters express their upbringing and familial relationships. The emotions and pathos of the cast's inner lives, though, come through powerfully to propel the book along.
I found the cultural aspects of Kismet fascinating and the various romances and tragedies compelling. As an American feminist, I sometimes had to struggle with outlooks that differed radically from my own, when the values of the characters created situations that, to me, cried out for very different reactions than the characters give. The book does not shy away from the sense of unfairness that some of its arranged marriages produce, but neither does it make bold statements decrying that unfairness of the kind an American novelist might default to. The theme of kismet wavers between fatalistic and hopeful, which sometimes resonated with me and other times did not.
Ultimately, though, the interlinked lives of these characters kept me turning pages, held my attention, and made me invest my emotions in the story.
Well worthwhile.
Author Shaheen Darr tells the story in tightly contained prose, mirroring the often-confining formality with which her characters express their upbringing and familial relationships. The emotions and pathos of the cast's inner lives, though, come through powerfully to propel the book along.
I found the cultural aspects of Kismet fascinating and the various romances and tragedies compelling. As an American feminist, I sometimes had to struggle with outlooks that differed radically from my own, when the values of the characters created situations that, to me, cried out for very different reactions than the characters give. The book does not shy away from the sense of unfairness that some of its arranged marriages produce, but neither does it make bold statements decrying that unfairness of the kind an American novelist might default to. The theme of kismet wavers between fatalistic and hopeful, which sometimes resonated with me and other times did not.
Ultimately, though, the interlinked lives of these characters kept me turning pages, held my attention, and made me invest my emotions in the story.
Well worthwhile.
November 9, 2015
I saw this book listed somewhere and the premise sounded pretty good. I'll admit that I'm normally not a reader of these sorts of stories, but there was something about this one that seems interesting. I did have to step outside of my fantasy comfort zone to jump into a modern day world that is filled with lots of known things. We all have family, and I would imagine that most of us understand the complexities of family life. This story takes place in modern day Britain in an area called Southall and follows the life of two families and their interactions between each other and the world outside of their home Pakistan. I'll also admit that I don't know much about Pakistani life and only a little of it's culture so there was a lot that was foreign to me. What really hit me was that even though I don't know much about their culture, their problems are the same. That's what makes the story so familiar.
In the beginning we follow Azra as she enters the U.K. for the first time to stay with her uncle after her mother dies and the struggles she has in this new land with a vastly different culture that the one she's use to. In a lot of was, I feel like she's the character that keeps us grounded to their struggle and their perspective as I feel like she balances the two cultures in a way that sets her apart from the other characters in the story. Along the way we meet the Mirza family. Abdul Mirza runs a clothing shop named Mina Fashions and his family is well known in the area of Southall. The interactions between both families is interesting and what kept me reading. I don't want to spoil the story, so I'll just say that there are lots of nice points that flesh out the characters including the surrounding mystery behind Azra's estranged husband, Abdul's son's love of Azra's daughter, and the thought process that goes into arranging a marriage.
In closing, I'll salute Shaheen Darr for crafting a great story that is equally sad, happy, and thought provoking. If you have a love for stories that focus on love of life and the drama of finding our way in the world, then you'll enjoy reading Kismet.
In the beginning we follow Azra as she enters the U.K. for the first time to stay with her uncle after her mother dies and the struggles she has in this new land with a vastly different culture that the one she's use to. In a lot of was, I feel like she's the character that keeps us grounded to their struggle and their perspective as I feel like she balances the two cultures in a way that sets her apart from the other characters in the story. Along the way we meet the Mirza family. Abdul Mirza runs a clothing shop named Mina Fashions and his family is well known in the area of Southall. The interactions between both families is interesting and what kept me reading. I don't want to spoil the story, so I'll just say that there are lots of nice points that flesh out the characters including the surrounding mystery behind Azra's estranged husband, Abdul's son's love of Azra's daughter, and the thought process that goes into arranging a marriage.
In closing, I'll salute Shaheen Darr for crafting a great story that is equally sad, happy, and thought provoking. If you have a love for stories that focus on love of life and the drama of finding our way in the world, then you'll enjoy reading Kismet.
December 3, 2015
This story can best be described as beautiful. I know that's not the most specific word, but beauty comes in many forms and wears all sorts of faces. That's what shows through in Kismet - the beauty in everyday things, in decisions, in people, in a community.
At the base it is the story of people pulled in two directions, living partway between cultures in London with roots in Pakistan. Themes of transition, discovery, holding onto (and challenging) traditions, and especially the many forms of love - which is beauty - permeate the book. Each character is unique, but all interact in unexpected ways as the story unfolds. The past and the future collide when decisions are made, hearts are broken, and consequences of years long ago burst into the present. It will also feel familiar to anyone who has ever left home - their country, their culture, or simply the familiar - and tried to make a life in another place. Unique challenges meet those who live in the mix of cultures and traditions, and although I am not an Asian living in London, many of the characters' thoughts and feelings spoke to me, and were familiar.
I highly recommend this beautiful story. It is heartbreaking, triumphant, and wise; a feast for the reader to enjoy, page by page. I read the kindle version, but honestly I believe the paperback is worth the investment. This is one you will likely want to read again.
At the base it is the story of people pulled in two directions, living partway between cultures in London with roots in Pakistan. Themes of transition, discovery, holding onto (and challenging) traditions, and especially the many forms of love - which is beauty - permeate the book. Each character is unique, but all interact in unexpected ways as the story unfolds. The past and the future collide when decisions are made, hearts are broken, and consequences of years long ago burst into the present. It will also feel familiar to anyone who has ever left home - their country, their culture, or simply the familiar - and tried to make a life in another place. Unique challenges meet those who live in the mix of cultures and traditions, and although I am not an Asian living in London, many of the characters' thoughts and feelings spoke to me, and were familiar.
I highly recommend this beautiful story. It is heartbreaking, triumphant, and wise; a feast for the reader to enjoy, page by page. I read the kindle version, but honestly I believe the paperback is worth the investment. This is one you will likely want to read again.
March 21, 2016
Wonderful and Tantalizing!
Find a quiet corner next to a warm fire and prepare yourself for a story that will engross you and not let you go until the end! A novel that is a finely woven tale of romance and more where the pages are an expert web of prose laced with excellent poetry! This book is definitely unlike any I have ever read. While I don't normally read novels from this genre, I enjoyed the well-crafted and complex plot with engaging characters.
The words and images will stick in your mind long after you have read the last word.
Rhapsody ... with poetry that is almost lyrical and prose that is tight and well-written .... This book is waiting for you. Give it a try like I did. You won't be disappointed.
Find a quiet corner next to a warm fire and prepare yourself for a story that will engross you and not let you go until the end! A novel that is a finely woven tale of romance and more where the pages are an expert web of prose laced with excellent poetry! This book is definitely unlike any I have ever read. While I don't normally read novels from this genre, I enjoyed the well-crafted and complex plot with engaging characters.
The words and images will stick in your mind long after you have read the last word.
Rhapsody ... with poetry that is almost lyrical and prose that is tight and well-written .... This book is waiting for you. Give it a try like I did. You won't be disappointed.
January 17, 2016
"Kismet: A Desi Rhapsody in London" places the reader in the world of Pakistani migrant families living in London. Throughout her novel, author Shaheen Darr deftly weaves stories of love, marriage, friendship, tragedies and triumphs.
The main character is Azra, who left Pakistan as a girl after the death of her parents. Azra is one of many complex and richly developed characters that make this novel a delightful read. As I read Kismet, I often forgot where I was and felt as though I were visiting the people and places in the book.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an absorbing, well-written love story!
The main character is Azra, who left Pakistan as a girl after the death of her parents. Azra is one of many complex and richly developed characters that make this novel a delightful read. As I read Kismet, I often forgot where I was and felt as though I were visiting the people and places in the book.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an absorbing, well-written love story!
February 11, 2016
Kismet is a rich read following the lives of several Pakistani families living in London. We see through the eyes of several of the characters as the book meanders through their stories, allowing a unique view of how they interconnect. There's no "big action" in this book. Instead, the story is made of pieces of daily life, and that's what makes it successful. I found myself pondering the characters when I wasn't reading, wondering where their stories were going.
The narrative was bulky at times, but I would recommend this book to readers looking to expand their world view and experience culture. I'm still thinking about it.
(I received a free copy for an honest review.)
The narrative was bulky at times, but I would recommend this book to readers looking to expand their world view and experience culture. I'm still thinking about it.
(I received a free copy for an honest review.)
November 4, 2015
A thoughtful and provoking look into the life of a woman caught between worlds. Azra is brought to London from Pakistan as a young girl after the deaths of her parents. This story follows her life and that of those around her from that time on. What struck me, was the amazing strength of Azra in dealing with the social differences. While the story is primarily about Azra, it also let's you see other character's (like her daughter, and employer) outlooks, fears, and change.
A heart-wrenching tale that leaves you feeling uplifted and a little more aware of what others are facing in this world.
A heart-wrenching tale that leaves you feeling uplifted and a little more aware of what others are facing in this world.
November 4, 2015
I started reading this story and it was so engaging that I finished reading it on the same day in just two sittings. It held my interest throughout. Quite often we see that with novel length stories, the pace drops in the middle but not with this one! Author has done a great job with all the characters and of course the pace of the story is absolutely perfect. In most of the scenes I could visualize the characters and could feel their emotions. This author has fantastic sensibilities and is a natural at storytelling.
February 15, 2016
The story follows Azra an orphan from pakistan who goes to live in London. The story is about adjustment, highs, lows, fitting in and fate.
A beautifully written story that will keep you glued to the book until the final page.
A beautifully written story that will keep you glued to the book until the final page.
November 13, 2015
A great book. Very impressive. I am a big fan of this author's poetry as well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this very engrossing book. This is a heart touching, poignant story of immigrants. This book leaves an indelible impression on the minds and hearts of readers. Urge all to read this book.
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