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Nightingale
When Charlie Porter meets Hazaar Alim her first year of university, she’s instantly smitten. Hazaar has it beauty, talent, and brains. What she doesn’t realize is that Hazaar’s future has already been decided, and Charlie has no place in it.
Hazaar desperately wants to break with her traditions and stay with Charlie, but when forced to choose, she chooses her family over love. When she realizes the choice she made is the worst one possible, it’s too late.
Years later, while working in Pakistan as a diplomat and negotiator, Charlie receives a phone call from a woman who says her British sister-in-law is to be killed for the family’s honor and asks if someone can save her.
Charlie and Hazaar are on a collision course with destiny. If they make it out alive, can they believe in their love once again?
Hazaar desperately wants to break with her traditions and stay with Charlie, but when forced to choose, she chooses her family over love. When she realizes the choice she made is the worst one possible, it’s too late.
Years later, while working in Pakistan as a diplomat and negotiator, Charlie receives a phone call from a woman who says her British sister-in-law is to be killed for the family’s honor and asks if someone can save her.
Charlie and Hazaar are on a collision course with destiny. If they make it out alive, can they believe in their love once again?
264 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2014
19 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Bramhall
28 books298 followersAndrea Bramhall wrote her first novel at the age of six and three-quarters. It was seven pages long and held together with a pink ribbon. Her Gran still has it in the attic. Since then she has progressed a little bit and now has a number of published works held together with glue, not ribbons, an Alice B. Lavender certificate, and a Lambda Literary award cluttering up her book shelves.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 11, 2018
4.75 Stars. I have liked and enjoyed many of Bramhall’s books, but this is her best book so far. They only reason I am not giving this a full 5 stars is because I would not re-read this, and that’s one of my requirements for a full 5 star rating. This book is really good, but it’s not easy to read. I was warned to keep the tissues ready and I will pass that warning on to you. Some of the parts will break your heart, but the story is worth it. The characters are wonderful. The dialogue is smart and realistic. And the romance and chemistry between the mains is what we want in a romance. This just really was a well written book. I would recommend this book to anyone, just be prepared for some tough scenes and the need for tissues.
October 27, 2017
Stunning read! this was such an incredibly written story that had great depth,well developed and defined characters,mature dialogue,exceptional storytelling,good pacing and a thoughtful ending by the lovely Ms.Bramhall..such a great author..highly recommend
January 17, 2019
This book was akin to a scenario like this:
You leave your house on a lovely summer day, the grass is green, flowers everywhere, you stretch out and smile and walk off your porch......only to be nailed by a bag of turd by a teenager on a bike.
You frown, confused, brush yourself off, but you continue on. Look, the mailman! Hey man! You have something for me? No way, I love getting mail! It's a fat, air mail envelope, a personal letter! What a great surpr.....and you trip and fall on your ass into a puddle.
No matter, no use getting upset, you just get up, continue on, ready to get a cup of coffee across the street at your favourite cafe. you look forward to the tantalizing taste of the dark roast and a big fat fresh butter croissant....when a lady in a motorized scooter blows around the corner full speed and lays you out flat.
You are dazed, achy, you shake your head, when a hot lady appears over your face with her hand outstretched. "You poor thing, would you like to have the best make out session of your life until you start to feel better?" You nod eagerly, get pulled up on your feet, are about to lean in.....when your 75 year old neighbour runs from her yard screaming at you and punches you in the face.
You come to, sitting on the road, the hot lady has disappeared, you feel disappointed. When all of a sudden.....KITTENS! 18 SCOTTISH FOLD KITTENS come barreling towards you. You love kittens! All these beautiful fur balls surround you, you laugh, cuddling them, you are so happy! You have tears of joy ......when a garbage truck rumbles by and drives over the kittens.
You are shocked, angry, nauseated. You stand forlornly, when all of a sudden a gorgeous white Audi R8 pulls up beside you. It's the hot lady! "Sorry we didn't get to have that make-out sesh, wanna hop in for a ride?" Your heart leaps in anticipation and you run to the passenger side, reach for the door handle.....and a piano drops on you.
Do you get the picture? This book fucked me up. I was happy, I was angry, I was heart-broken, I was turned on, I was excited, I was horrified, I felt ill, I was depressed, I was tearful, I was riveted, I was absolutely spinning. The story builds you up, then tears you down, with this vein of dread constantly simmering. But it was so, so well done. I took along time to pick it up, because I was not interested in the subject matter at all, but decided to take a chance when I saw it in my library. And I am really glad I did. You won't be the same after this one. Solid 5 stars, excellent writing, but a book I will not re-read, no matter how awesome the romance bits were.
You leave your house on a lovely summer day, the grass is green, flowers everywhere, you stretch out and smile and walk off your porch......only to be nailed by a bag of turd by a teenager on a bike.
You frown, confused, brush yourself off, but you continue on. Look, the mailman! Hey man! You have something for me? No way, I love getting mail! It's a fat, air mail envelope, a personal letter! What a great surpr.....and you trip and fall on your ass into a puddle.
No matter, no use getting upset, you just get up, continue on, ready to get a cup of coffee across the street at your favourite cafe. you look forward to the tantalizing taste of the dark roast and a big fat fresh butter croissant....when a lady in a motorized scooter blows around the corner full speed and lays you out flat.
You are dazed, achy, you shake your head, when a hot lady appears over your face with her hand outstretched. "You poor thing, would you like to have the best make out session of your life until you start to feel better?" You nod eagerly, get pulled up on your feet, are about to lean in.....when your 75 year old neighbour runs from her yard screaming at you and punches you in the face.
You come to, sitting on the road, the hot lady has disappeared, you feel disappointed. When all of a sudden.....KITTENS! 18 SCOTTISH FOLD KITTENS come barreling towards you. You love kittens! All these beautiful fur balls surround you, you laugh, cuddling them, you are so happy! You have tears of joy ......when a garbage truck rumbles by and drives over the kittens.
You are shocked, angry, nauseated. You stand forlornly, when all of a sudden a gorgeous white Audi R8 pulls up beside you. It's the hot lady! "Sorry we didn't get to have that make-out sesh, wanna hop in for a ride?" Your heart leaps in anticipation and you run to the passenger side, reach for the door handle.....and a piano drops on you.
Do you get the picture? This book fucked me up. I was happy, I was angry, I was heart-broken, I was turned on, I was excited, I was horrified, I felt ill, I was depressed, I was tearful, I was riveted, I was absolutely spinning. The story builds you up, then tears you down, with this vein of dread constantly simmering. But it was so, so well done. I took along time to pick it up, because I was not interested in the subject matter at all, but decided to take a chance when I saw it in my library. And I am really glad I did. You won't be the same after this one. Solid 5 stars, excellent writing, but a book I will not re-read, no matter how awesome the romance bits were.
July 11, 2017
Wow. Nightingale in audio shows how the right voice can make a great book into something remarkable. Kudos to Ms Bramhall for this heartfelt story of love overcoming all. Educational and enlightening, the author shows us how cultural differences can be overcome with understanding and compassion.
Ms Naqvi should have won an award for her work on Nightingale. I was transported into the lives of each and every character in this novel. Her narration was spot on. Wonderful when a voice actor elevates the strength and power of a story.
I rarely reread or re-listen to books. Nightingale might become an annual read for me now.
Ms Naqvi should have won an award for her work on Nightingale. I was transported into the lives of each and every character in this novel. Her narration was spot on. Wonderful when a voice actor elevates the strength and power of a story.
I rarely reread or re-listen to books. Nightingale might become an annual read for me now.
December 30, 2014
The one thing that has consistently distinguished BSB releases over others in this genre is their bold, attention-grabbing covers. And this one is no exception. Happily, the rest of the book doesn't disappoint either. :)
Hazaar is every man (and woman's) dream. She is beautiful, smart, talented, vivacious, and full of life. She is also gay. Her parents are devout Pakistani traditionalists, so the prospect of a marriage to a good, Muslim husband hangs over her future like damocles' sword. Higher education has so far been a successful excuse to delay the inevitable, and one day perhaps...fame and a doctorate degree might just allow her to fly free. But a cruel twist of Fate and some well-meaning but horrible decisions throw this poor nightingale into a brutal cage.
Hazaar's love Charlie refuses to give up, following her into hell in the hopes of someday reuniting them, however remote that possibility is. What are the odds that Fate would one day dangle that chance in front of her, yet be cruel enough to snatch it all away...again.
This is the author's third, and best book to date.
The timeline switches back and forth from the present to the past in alternate chapters, making for a fast-paced page-turner from start to finish. This style works well for the most part especially the first half of the book, when the good old times contrasted sharply with present. But the constant switching continues throughout the book, and I think it would have even been more tense and suspenseful had it gone linear at some point. There are a couple of times when the tension and build-up got diffused or completely fizzled out by switching back to the other timeline. This is just a minor issue though.
More importantly, I love how the author balances all the elements that make for a thoroughly enjoyable read. Characters you can fall in love with, a plot that grips you from the first chapter and doesn't let you go till the last, supporting characters that aren't caricatures, realistic plotting and believable character development (e.g. Charlie). The horrors that Hazaar experiences mirror those that we read about in the news. But it is interesting that the author doesn't vilify the culture or the religion. Instead she shows how people actually bend and abuse these traditions to further their own interests and agendas. Her portrayal of the British embassy team that deals with these problems also show a deep understanding of the complex familial and legal issues involved.
I wished the book were a bit longer though--an additional 50-100 pages maybe. I would have loved to read more about Hazaar's POV. There were some important periods in her life that were skipped. Also the aftermath could have been mined for a bit more drama. These aren't issues--just a personal wishlist.
I'm still giving 5 stars!
Hazaar is every man (and woman's) dream. She is beautiful, smart, talented, vivacious, and full of life. She is also gay. Her parents are devout Pakistani traditionalists, so the prospect of a marriage to a good, Muslim husband hangs over her future like damocles' sword. Higher education has so far been a successful excuse to delay the inevitable, and one day perhaps...fame and a doctorate degree might just allow her to fly free. But a cruel twist of Fate and some well-meaning but horrible decisions throw this poor nightingale into a brutal cage.
Hazaar's love Charlie refuses to give up, following her into hell in the hopes of someday reuniting them, however remote that possibility is. What are the odds that Fate would one day dangle that chance in front of her, yet be cruel enough to snatch it all away...again.
This is the author's third, and best book to date.
The timeline switches back and forth from the present to the past in alternate chapters, making for a fast-paced page-turner from start to finish. This style works well for the most part especially the first half of the book, when the good old times contrasted sharply with present. But the constant switching continues throughout the book, and I think it would have even been more tense and suspenseful had it gone linear at some point. There are a couple of times when the tension and build-up got diffused or completely fizzled out by switching back to the other timeline. This is just a minor issue though.
More importantly, I love how the author balances all the elements that make for a thoroughly enjoyable read. Characters you can fall in love with, a plot that grips you from the first chapter and doesn't let you go till the last, supporting characters that aren't caricatures, realistic plotting and believable character development (e.g. Charlie). The horrors that Hazaar experiences mirror those that we read about in the news. But it is interesting that the author doesn't vilify the culture or the religion. Instead she shows how people actually bend and abuse these traditions to further their own interests and agendas. Her portrayal of the British embassy team that deals with these problems also show a deep understanding of the complex familial and legal issues involved.
I wished the book were a bit longer though--an additional 50-100 pages maybe. I would have loved to read more about Hazaar's POV. There were some important periods in her life that were skipped. Also the aftermath could have been mined for a bit more drama. These aren't issues--just a personal wishlist.
I'm still giving 5 stars!
August 14, 2018
JFC.
What. an. effing. ride.
I don't mean it in a good way, but not bad way either. I admit the book is good. But it wouldn't be something I'd like to re-experience.
Fair warning for others: This book contain violence, not too graphics, but still darker than Cari Hunter's detective series imho.
For me, reading this one was like riding an emotionally draining rollercoaster. One time you're at the top, the other you're just going very low that you wouldn't see if it's the bottom yet.
The ending is too abrupt. It doesn't bode me well how someone who'd going through that experience would recover very fast, too fast even. Physically and psychologically speaking.
This is an 4.5 stars for me. (my heart can't take it lol)
But I appreciate the writer who has given us a pretty accurate backgrounds of the tribal law in middle east. I really could relate to that on some extent from where I live. And because of the archaic religion deemed their followers to be obedient towards its law, which is so effin irrelevant for most of us.
This is exactly what made me questioning my belief lol. Meh
What. an. effing. ride.
I don't mean it in a good way, but not bad way either. I admit the book is good. But it wouldn't be something I'd like to re-experience.
Fair warning for others: This book contain violence, not too graphics, but still darker than Cari Hunter's detective series imho.
For me, reading this one was like riding an emotionally draining rollercoaster. One time you're at the top, the other you're just going very low that you wouldn't see if it's the bottom yet.
The ending is too abrupt. It doesn't bode me well how someone who'd going through that experience would recover very fast, too fast even. Physically and psychologically speaking.
This is an 4.5 stars for me. (my heart can't take it lol)
But I appreciate the writer who has given us a pretty accurate backgrounds of the tribal law in middle east. I really could relate to that on some extent from where I live. And because of the archaic religion deemed their followers to be obedient towards its law, which is so effin irrelevant for most of us.
This is exactly what made me questioning my belief lol. Meh
April 8, 2019
This book is beyond Amazing.
January 8, 2019
I’ve been putting off this review for a minute. Some stories you just don’t want to rehash.
The book jumps back and forth between “present day” Pakistan and “then” England. The initial romance between new student Charlie and grad student Hazaar is deliciously sweet and tender, sparks and sexual gymnastics, the desperate all-in ties that two young lovers define best. But Hazaar is a good daughter who is determined to please her devout Muslim family and yet find a way out of the predetermined path of a prearranged marriage to a man and an end to her own dreams. Family or soulmate?
Some well done plot points on the author’s part set up an impossible situation that turn everything for Hazaar and Charlie. It makes the future inevitable instead of a choice. But I feel like for many women in many cultures it’s that way anyway.
Hard to read, still hard to think back on the heart wrenching scenes of Hazaar preparing for marital ceremonies, Charlie grieving her second loss, Hazaar’s mental and physical abuse in a house prison far from home. Many difficult but incredibly important moments.
There is some light and even action in the book as Charlie works to find Hazaar. Since graduation, she’s joined the British embassy in Pakistan as part of a diplomatic team whose purpose is to return British citizens, women and children, back to England. After such a stark journey of a book, I did feel like the author could have extended the ending, if nothing else, to let us down gently. Nonetheless, a great book.
The book jumps back and forth between “present day” Pakistan and “then” England. The initial romance between new student Charlie and grad student Hazaar is deliciously sweet and tender, sparks and sexual gymnastics, the desperate all-in ties that two young lovers define best. But Hazaar is a good daughter who is determined to please her devout Muslim family and yet find a way out of the predetermined path of a prearranged marriage to a man and an end to her own dreams. Family or soulmate?
Some well done plot points on the author’s part set up an impossible situation that turn everything for Hazaar and Charlie. It makes the future inevitable instead of a choice. But I feel like for many women in many cultures it’s that way anyway.
Hard to read, still hard to think back on the heart wrenching scenes of Hazaar preparing for marital ceremonies, Charlie grieving her second loss, Hazaar’s mental and physical abuse in a house prison far from home. Many difficult but incredibly important moments.
There is some light and even action in the book as Charlie works to find Hazaar. Since graduation, she’s joined the British embassy in Pakistan as part of a diplomatic team whose purpose is to return British citizens, women and children, back to England. After such a stark journey of a book, I did feel like the author could have extended the ending, if nothing else, to let us down gently. Nonetheless, a great book.
January 4, 2016
Before you dive into this book, I suggest you take a deep breath. And make sure you have a box of Kleenex near you. You'll be reaching for it every few pages.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
Nightingale is a novel that defies labels. Other than "lesbian fiction", it's hard to place it in one solid genre. It's even difficult to define the characters as being one over the other, or one and not the other. Before I got down to reading the book, I was afraid that the story would be along the same vein as the movie, Not Without My Daughter, but thankfully, I was mistaken. The approach that Andrea Bramhall took with Nightingale is very different from the approach that David Rintels took for the screenplay, Not Without My Daughter.
In Not Without My Daughter, it's very clear who the enemy is. The enemy is a domineering Muslim man who tricks his wife into following him into a country that is hostile towards Americans. It's a place with a vastly different set of ethics and cultural values, where the mother/protagonist has absolutely no power and no rights as a woman. The message that the movie is asserting about Muslim men and Iranian society is disturbing, and though it is based on a true story, the screen-play aggressively pursues a storyline that is very black and white and doesn't give any screen-time or credit to Muslim characters that didn't fit the enemy archetype. I guess there's only so much you can fit into two hours?
It made me appreciate Nightingale that much more. The author of this novel offered a balance perspective without making derogatory assertions of those who follow the Islamic faith. She was still able to bring awareness to the readers that these types of political and power struggles do exist around the world today, and that as women, we are still greatly impacted and vulnerable. As lesbian women, we are constantly stigmatized and marginalized. Our voices are often unheard and our stories are buried. Nightingale gives a voice to a very real and plausible situation that each of us could be faced with and what could potentially happen in the aftermath if we decide to choose duty before love.
Ultimately, this is book about hope and enduring love. This is not just a love story between two women, but between two souls searching and reaching for each other even during their darkest hour. It is about women who are victims of circumstances that are beyond their control, but are still able to surpass almost-impossible challenges they are faced with and in the end, find their way back to each other. Personally, Nightingale is one of my top ten. This book will leave you with a lasting impression and it's a powerful love story that is worth every second spent reading it.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
Nightingale is a novel that defies labels. Other than "lesbian fiction", it's hard to place it in one solid genre. It's even difficult to define the characters as being one over the other, or one and not the other. Before I got down to reading the book, I was afraid that the story would be along the same vein as the movie, Not Without My Daughter, but thankfully, I was mistaken. The approach that Andrea Bramhall took with Nightingale is very different from the approach that David Rintels took for the screenplay, Not Without My Daughter.
In Not Without My Daughter, it's very clear who the enemy is. The enemy is a domineering Muslim man who tricks his wife into following him into a country that is hostile towards Americans. It's a place with a vastly different set of ethics and cultural values, where the mother/protagonist has absolutely no power and no rights as a woman. The message that the movie is asserting about Muslim men and Iranian society is disturbing, and though it is based on a true story, the screen-play aggressively pursues a storyline that is very black and white and doesn't give any screen-time or credit to Muslim characters that didn't fit the enemy archetype. I guess there's only so much you can fit into two hours?
It made me appreciate Nightingale that much more. The author of this novel offered a balance perspective without making derogatory assertions of those who follow the Islamic faith. She was still able to bring awareness to the readers that these types of political and power struggles do exist around the world today, and that as women, we are still greatly impacted and vulnerable. As lesbian women, we are constantly stigmatized and marginalized. Our voices are often unheard and our stories are buried. Nightingale gives a voice to a very real and plausible situation that each of us could be faced with and what could potentially happen in the aftermath if we decide to choose duty before love.
Ultimately, this is book about hope and enduring love. This is not just a love story between two women, but between two souls searching and reaching for each other even during their darkest hour. It is about women who are victims of circumstances that are beyond their control, but are still able to surpass almost-impossible challenges they are faced with and in the end, find their way back to each other. Personally, Nightingale is one of my top ten. This book will leave you with a lasting impression and it's a powerful love story that is worth every second spent reading it.
August 26, 2020
5 Stars - audiobook - omg, the drama and angst - exquisitely painful in all the best ways
The narration of this book was so good, I have to see if I can hunt down her info on twitter or somewhere and let her know. She was 100% acting not just reading and her accents were spot on.
The subject matter of this book is a good reminder for all of us privileged enough to live somewhere where our lives and our decisions are our own to be very grateful indeed. Some of the stuff that happens to Hazaar is really hard to read. Have tissues handy.
I know I complained about flashbacks in my last review, but this book is a perfect example of them used the right way. Tell the past (how they meet and fall in love) with the current timeline, just ramps up the drama and the angst because you know where it all is leading. The climax at the end had me on the edge of my seat.
I would put this in the top 5 five best books I have read this year. Highly recommend.
The narration of this book was so good, I have to see if I can hunt down her info on twitter or somewhere and let her know. She was 100% acting not just reading and her accents were spot on.
The subject matter of this book is a good reminder for all of us privileged enough to live somewhere where our lives and our decisions are our own to be very grateful indeed. Some of the stuff that happens to Hazaar is really hard to read. Have tissues handy.
I know I complained about flashbacks in my last review, but this book is a perfect example of them used the right way. Tell the past (how they meet and fall in love) with the current timeline, just ramps up the drama and the angst because you know where it all is leading. The climax at the end had me on the edge of my seat.
I would put this in the top 5 five best books I have read this year. Highly recommend.
August 13, 2018
4.4 stars.
Pros
*Great characters
*Engaging plot
*Chemistry!
*Well researched
*Well written
Cons
*The fairytale ending doesn't fit the otherwise grim latter part of the book. I got a bit of a tone whiplash.
*Extreme violence
WARNING
*Tissues required.
Overall a really good book. Despite the ending not fitting the overall tone I like it. It's why I read these books. But so much was left unexplored. The consequences of it all trivialized. I couldn't truly believe it. It'd require another book to deal with all the aftermath for me to believe this ending could be possible. But it is what it is. And the book overall is great.
Pros
*Great characters
*Engaging plot
*Chemistry!
*Well researched
*Well written
Cons
*The fairytale ending doesn't fit the otherwise grim latter part of the book. I got a bit of a tone whiplash.
*Extreme violence
WARNING
*Tissues required.
Overall a really good book. Despite the ending not fitting the overall tone I like it. It's why I read these books. But so much was left unexplored. The consequences of it all trivialized. I couldn't truly believe it. It'd require another book to deal with all the aftermath for me to believe this ending could be possible. But it is what it is. And the book overall is great.
July 12, 2018
Oh, this one was kind of heart breaking. Lyrical and beautiful too.
March 3, 2015
4.5
A nice page-turner which cost me a night's sleep. ^0^
The alternating timeline and POV was nicely executed. The characters (regardless if they were mains or otherwise) all helped make the story interesting.
I just think that the events in the last couple of chapters sorta happened too fast or maybe it's just the characters Overflowing looooove for each other. ha ha ha! Loved the brief Charlie-Afia moment at the hospital... would've loved to see more.
A nice page-turner which cost me a night's sleep. ^0^
The alternating timeline and POV was nicely executed. The characters (regardless if they were mains or otherwise) all helped make the story interesting.
I just think that the events in the last couple of chapters sorta happened too fast or maybe it's just the characters Overflowing looooove for each other. ha ha ha! Loved the brief Charlie-Afia moment at the hospital... would've loved to see more.
September 1, 2016
A great novel with captivating and believable characters, but not for my re-read list. There was too much sadness and too much violence against women for me to go through it again.
January 6, 2018
I don’t really know how to feel about this one. On the one hand, it is very well written. The characters are exceptional. On the other hand, the use of a Muslim character in order to have a plot driven by the actions of religious extremists is frustrating. While the author made it a point several times to point out that the religion was not the problem, it was power and the people who exploit it, the book still felt like it relied on stereotypes and western fears of what Islam is. It made me uncomfortable. I want more books with a wide variety of characters from every background, but not if the plot is driven by what some see as the most negative aspects of that variety.
May 15, 2020
Where did this come from? Heart breaking culture clashes all over the place, defending, then giving us the worst excesses. A rollercoaster, well written and cleverly held together. Will stay with me - highly recommended but wear seat belts.
March 24, 2025
Ooh this was a hard read. So painful yet so so beautiful. I adore books that blend cultures and broach the hard very real life circumstances some women find themselves in. And Andrea Bramhal did a great job with this book.
If you're going to read it, buckle up. It's a roller-coaster and it's so worth it.
I cried and was so angry and felt so hopeless, but I also laughed. And I cheered for Hazaar and Charlie with everything in me.
If you're going to read it, buckle up. It's a roller-coaster and it's so worth it.
I cried and was so angry and felt so hopeless, but I also laughed. And I cheered for Hazaar and Charlie with everything in me.
May 20, 2020
Tragically beautiful!!!
Charlie is swept off her feet by Hazaar when she meets her at university, but culture for Hazaar means she has to be on her guard. She is desperate to live a life that isn’t destined to her, and her education is currently providing that escape, but only as long as she can keep her family happily. Swept away in the whirlwind romance, Hazaar is considering standing up to her father when the rug is pulled out from under her and she has to make a choice. Years later, Charlie’s future hasn’t panned out as she’d planned and she finds herself working as a diplomat in Pakistan. A phone call from a woman in danger has Charlie wondering if fate has found a way to bring her and Hazaar together again, but will there be time.
I am not going to be able to do this story justice in words, I just won’t be! Amazing!!!! I can see why this was an award winning story, and not only for plot but for the amazing amount of emotion conveyed. The emotions this story elicited from me, both in Charlie and Hazaar falling in love and then the tragic events that lead to Hazaar’s heartbeaking choices completely overwhelmed me. This was a deeply emotional book, and that connection it allowed to the characters just drew me in and I was completely invested in the experience.
Andrea very cleverly put the story together to take you to glimpses of the past, and into the present day throughout. At times, in both instances I was scared, frightened, and heartbroken, but there were also moments of hope, elation and sheer joy and happiness. The emotions were so carefully balanced it left me a total mess (which I am fine with because this really means you’ve been touched) and I was, deeply touched by the tragic beauty of these soul mates. This has to be one of the greatest love stories I have ever read. What Charlie does for Hazaar, and how proud Hazaar is in obeying and being respectful of all her family have done, her father in particular, was touching.
Charlie though! What an amazing women. When you learn of Charlie’s past, and all she goes through with Hazaar and after you will totally understand why. She is so strong, passionate and loving. She is someone to definitely be admired and everyone needs their own Charlie.
This covers some extremely dark, and deep subjects, but it was so educational and eye opening. I learned a lot and I admire how much effort the research must have taken to produce such a realistic depiction of cultural, social, religious and personal divides. There was so much packed into this that had me thinking, left me contemplating, and really upset me. I wasn’t at all prepared for it but Andrea has handed each and every aspect carefully, respectfully, realistically and most importantly sensitively.
I appreciate some people will find this book very difficult to stomach, but if you can it will be worth it. You will learn so much, fell so much, and be truly blown away. I couldn’t put it down and found myself so lost in the story, holding my breath for a lot of it! Thank you Andrea for being so brave to write such a controversial and different story. It’s a credit to you, and has definitely earned its place as one of my all-time favourite books. It will stay with me, in many respects. I could easily read this time and time again. Truly stunning and I would highly recommend reading this story!!!
Charlie is swept off her feet by Hazaar when she meets her at university, but culture for Hazaar means she has to be on her guard. She is desperate to live a life that isn’t destined to her, and her education is currently providing that escape, but only as long as she can keep her family happily. Swept away in the whirlwind romance, Hazaar is considering standing up to her father when the rug is pulled out from under her and she has to make a choice. Years later, Charlie’s future hasn’t panned out as she’d planned and she finds herself working as a diplomat in Pakistan. A phone call from a woman in danger has Charlie wondering if fate has found a way to bring her and Hazaar together again, but will there be time.
I am not going to be able to do this story justice in words, I just won’t be! Amazing!!!! I can see why this was an award winning story, and not only for plot but for the amazing amount of emotion conveyed. The emotions this story elicited from me, both in Charlie and Hazaar falling in love and then the tragic events that lead to Hazaar’s heartbeaking choices completely overwhelmed me. This was a deeply emotional book, and that connection it allowed to the characters just drew me in and I was completely invested in the experience.
Andrea very cleverly put the story together to take you to glimpses of the past, and into the present day throughout. At times, in both instances I was scared, frightened, and heartbroken, but there were also moments of hope, elation and sheer joy and happiness. The emotions were so carefully balanced it left me a total mess (which I am fine with because this really means you’ve been touched) and I was, deeply touched by the tragic beauty of these soul mates. This has to be one of the greatest love stories I have ever read. What Charlie does for Hazaar, and how proud Hazaar is in obeying and being respectful of all her family have done, her father in particular, was touching.
Charlie though! What an amazing women. When you learn of Charlie’s past, and all she goes through with Hazaar and after you will totally understand why. She is so strong, passionate and loving. She is someone to definitely be admired and everyone needs their own Charlie.
This covers some extremely dark, and deep subjects, but it was so educational and eye opening. I learned a lot and I admire how much effort the research must have taken to produce such a realistic depiction of cultural, social, religious and personal divides. There was so much packed into this that had me thinking, left me contemplating, and really upset me. I wasn’t at all prepared for it but Andrea has handed each and every aspect carefully, respectfully, realistically and most importantly sensitively.
I appreciate some people will find this book very difficult to stomach, but if you can it will be worth it. You will learn so much, fell so much, and be truly blown away. I couldn’t put it down and found myself so lost in the story, holding my breath for a lot of it! Thank you Andrea for being so brave to write such a controversial and different story. It’s a credit to you, and has definitely earned its place as one of my all-time favourite books. It will stay with me, in many respects. I could easily read this time and time again. Truly stunning and I would highly recommend reading this story!!!
July 2, 2014
An amazing book which is an excitement to read and warms up your heart with the sweet romance between Charlie and Hazaar. The book is written with interwoven timelines, crossing current days (mostly in Pakistan) and days back 4-5 years ago in London when the two fell in love. This way in presenting the story makes the transition from romance into thriller far more easier, though in last 20% of the book, this "cross-over" kind of killed the pace of the thriller part.
I liked knowing Charlie and Hazaar in their beginnings, and how they come together despite their drastic difference in their cultural background. Romance aside, I also like the family element in this book. Charlie has got the most supportive family anyone can ask for, and Hazaar's dad, finally coming to terms and accepts her as who she is.. it just makes you feel warm and happy for the characters.
I do agree with another reviewer that the book could have been a little bit longer, especially towards the ending. I would have love to see a little bit more of Charlie and Hazzar post the dreadful ordeal.
Nonetheless, this is one of the books I'd highly recommend you to buy and read it. It is certainly on my list to re-read.
I liked knowing Charlie and Hazaar in their beginnings, and how they come together despite their drastic difference in their cultural background. Romance aside, I also like the family element in this book. Charlie has got the most supportive family anyone can ask for, and Hazaar's dad, finally coming to terms and accepts her as who she is.. it just makes you feel warm and happy for the characters.
I do agree with another reviewer that the book could have been a little bit longer, especially towards the ending. I would have love to see a little bit more of Charlie and Hazzar post the dreadful ordeal.
Nonetheless, this is one of the books I'd highly recommend you to buy and read it. It is certainly on my list to re-read.
January 13, 2016
I read a lot of raving reviews on this book and was glad that I wasn't disappointed. It's hard to put this book down once you start. A definite above average story!
May 1, 2015
This is one of the most intense and passionate stories I've read in a long time.
It's a love story between two women who've grown up in the same culture but who come from families of different cultures and how those cultures play a huge role in the decisions they feel compelled to make.
Both characters are so well done. I wanted them to make it so badly. I loved how they get together in the first place; they are so playful and into each other right out of the gate. And I liked how mature and respectful Charlie was of Hazaar and Hazaar's need to be respectful to her family's tradition while at the same time trying to live life as a lesbian.
The way the author went back and forth between then/ now, slowly giving the back story while keeping up the current tension was perfectly executed. I was so curious how it would all pan out.
I did feel the author did a fairly good job of not completely vilifying a Middle Eastern culture or Muslims. There are good and bad and there was a clear distinction made between the actual teachings of Islam vs religious zealots. I can't say if it's a completely accurate depiction, but I felt the author did her research and didn't just go with typical stereotypes.
It's kind of a saga really, even though it only spans a time period of 3-4 years. There's just so much to this and it's very well written.
The only thing neg for me was towards the end. I almost couldn't believe Charlie's reaction after all they went through. But of course, it's a very satisfying ending.
I listened to this on audio and definitely loved the narrator. I listened to this in one sitting, all day at work.
It's a love story between two women who've grown up in the same culture but who come from families of different cultures and how those cultures play a huge role in the decisions they feel compelled to make.
Both characters are so well done. I wanted them to make it so badly. I loved how they get together in the first place; they are so playful and into each other right out of the gate. And I liked how mature and respectful Charlie was of Hazaar and Hazaar's need to be respectful to her family's tradition while at the same time trying to live life as a lesbian.
The way the author went back and forth between then/ now, slowly giving the back story while keeping up the current tension was perfectly executed. I was so curious how it would all pan out.
I did feel the author did a fairly good job of not completely vilifying a Middle Eastern culture or Muslims. There are good and bad and there was a clear distinction made between the actual teachings of Islam vs religious zealots. I can't say if it's a completely accurate depiction, but I felt the author did her research and didn't just go with typical stereotypes.
It's kind of a saga really, even though it only spans a time period of 3-4 years. There's just so much to this and it's very well written.
The only thing neg for me was towards the end. I almost couldn't believe Charlie's reaction after all they went through. But of course, it's a very satisfying ending.
I listened to this on audio and definitely loved the narrator. I listened to this in one sitting, all day at work.
August 15, 2018
Well worth the read. Incredible story, very well written.
May 17, 2014
Charlie Porter is attending her audition for a place at University when a chance meeting in the ladies toilet changes her life. A beautiful woman gives her advice that will change what she performs and steals her heart in a moment.
Hazaar Alim is beautiful, clever and an amazing pianist. She comes from a traditional Muslim family where arranged marriage is normal and knows her father has been indulging her love of performing. She is living on borrowed time. When the call finally comes Hazaar feels she has no choice but to break both their hearts. Little does she know quite how terrible her decision will turn out to be.
Ripped apart and unable to completely get over losing the love of her life, Charlie joins the diplomatic core in a vague attempt to reconnect. She spends her life helping British women who have been abducted to Pakistan escape their forced marriages. When a call comes in saying a British women is going to be killed, Charlie will do almost anything to save her.
Fate brought them together once; time and destiny will tell whether their paths will cross again.
----------
Nightingale is an amazing and sometimes brutal tale of the fate of women forced into arranged marriages and abducted by their husband’s family to places where western law and western agencies cannot reach them. At the same time it is a wonderful romance that tells the tale of two women who's souls connect from the very first day and are destined to love each other despite their separation. For one that love is the driver to help women in desperate circumstances. For the other it is the will to survive a despicable situation, and to live through anguish and pain.
Andrea Bramhall’s novel is timely and all too realistic. In the UK it is a known fact that too many women are forced into marriage and then taken to countries where they can be treated as slaves or held prisoner. We read frequent stories of abduction, of women being murdered for disobeying their husbands or fathers, of children disappearing. Finding and retrieving those women and children once they have left the country is an almost impossible task.
Hazaar is a wonderful character. She vibrates off the page in her passion and intensity. Her strength of character, her will to survive and the desperate choices she has to make resonate despite our lack of personal experience. She wants to stay with Charlie, she knows that is the right decision for her happiness and sanity. But when faced with the choice of saving her father’s business, and possibly his life, she cannot make the selfish choice. The consequences could literally destroy her.
Charlie is a woman done wrong by her love. She knows Hazaar is holding back some powerful secret, but has no idea how destructive that will be. When faced with the truth she lashes out in pain and runs from the agonizing drawn out end of their relationship. But she rises above her own anguish and channels her energy into saving women like Hazaar. She is a woman on a mission, dreaming of finding the woman she loves, however unrealistic, and using her skills to rescuing other women from a similar fate.
Brilliantly well written, the main characters and their supporting cast are skillfully drawn. The plot is cleverly planned and the switches between the past and the present, the consulate and the compound are well handled. It is a tale of suspense that ingeniously keeps the pages turning, first to know Hazaar’s decision, and second to know her fate.
Ms Bramhall has carefully avoided making this an attack on the Muslim faith. The drivers of these criminal acts are men who lust for power and wealth. It is a story about patriarchy and ignorance, power and abuse. Of men who use the Sharia laws for their own gain and women who are powerless to stop them.
This book will move you to tears. You cannot help but feel Hazaar’s pain at the choice she feels she has to make, her despair when she realizes the consequences of that choice, and her passionate will to live despite it all. Charlie’s hollow existence will also reach out to twist your heart.
You need to read this book. There aren’t enough stars to recommend it highly enough.
Hazaar Alim is beautiful, clever and an amazing pianist. She comes from a traditional Muslim family where arranged marriage is normal and knows her father has been indulging her love of performing. She is living on borrowed time. When the call finally comes Hazaar feels she has no choice but to break both their hearts. Little does she know quite how terrible her decision will turn out to be.
Ripped apart and unable to completely get over losing the love of her life, Charlie joins the diplomatic core in a vague attempt to reconnect. She spends her life helping British women who have been abducted to Pakistan escape their forced marriages. When a call comes in saying a British women is going to be killed, Charlie will do almost anything to save her.
Fate brought them together once; time and destiny will tell whether their paths will cross again.
----------
Nightingale is an amazing and sometimes brutal tale of the fate of women forced into arranged marriages and abducted by their husband’s family to places where western law and western agencies cannot reach them. At the same time it is a wonderful romance that tells the tale of two women who's souls connect from the very first day and are destined to love each other despite their separation. For one that love is the driver to help women in desperate circumstances. For the other it is the will to survive a despicable situation, and to live through anguish and pain.
Andrea Bramhall’s novel is timely and all too realistic. In the UK it is a known fact that too many women are forced into marriage and then taken to countries where they can be treated as slaves or held prisoner. We read frequent stories of abduction, of women being murdered for disobeying their husbands or fathers, of children disappearing. Finding and retrieving those women and children once they have left the country is an almost impossible task.
Hazaar is a wonderful character. She vibrates off the page in her passion and intensity. Her strength of character, her will to survive and the desperate choices she has to make resonate despite our lack of personal experience. She wants to stay with Charlie, she knows that is the right decision for her happiness and sanity. But when faced with the choice of saving her father’s business, and possibly his life, she cannot make the selfish choice. The consequences could literally destroy her.
Charlie is a woman done wrong by her love. She knows Hazaar is holding back some powerful secret, but has no idea how destructive that will be. When faced with the truth she lashes out in pain and runs from the agonizing drawn out end of their relationship. But she rises above her own anguish and channels her energy into saving women like Hazaar. She is a woman on a mission, dreaming of finding the woman she loves, however unrealistic, and using her skills to rescuing other women from a similar fate.
Brilliantly well written, the main characters and their supporting cast are skillfully drawn. The plot is cleverly planned and the switches between the past and the present, the consulate and the compound are well handled. It is a tale of suspense that ingeniously keeps the pages turning, first to know Hazaar’s decision, and second to know her fate.
Ms Bramhall has carefully avoided making this an attack on the Muslim faith. The drivers of these criminal acts are men who lust for power and wealth. It is a story about patriarchy and ignorance, power and abuse. Of men who use the Sharia laws for their own gain and women who are powerless to stop them.
This book will move you to tears. You cannot help but feel Hazaar’s pain at the choice she feels she has to make, her despair when she realizes the consequences of that choice, and her passionate will to live despite it all. Charlie’s hollow existence will also reach out to twist your heart.
You need to read this book. There aren’t enough stars to recommend it highly enough.
May 18, 2014
This is an incredible love story. Additionally, it is a top-notch thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. The cornerstone and driving force revolves around two amazing women whose love burst on the scene while they were both at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, Great Britain. The story bounces back and forth between a current date and time titled Pakistan Today and a previous date and time titled The North of England, then. I liked that shifting back and forth from today to the past, because for me it was handled very well, with little confusion, and delightful balance and continuity. This is a winner!
Charlotte Porter, aka Charlie, has returned to finish her schooling after recovering from the traumatic death of a very close friend. She is a voice major with an apparently angelic and marvelously expressive talent although it is not given much airtime. Moreover, she has an extraordinary family that is very supportive and pleased she has hooked up with Hazaar. Well, Hazaar kind of stalks Charlie after she accompanies her during her voice audition on the piano. Charlie is one half of the amazing love story, but additionally she blossomed into an extremely talented and successful British embassy task force negotiator re-uniting British nationals who have been forcibly relocated to Pakistan with their British families. When Charlie is this bit of a rogue negotiator, the thriller part of this book unfolds. Charlie is rather a multi-talented woman. I loved her!
Hazaar Alim was born in Stockport, Great Britain. She is the youngest daughter of four with one brother of a devout Muslim family. Within the 'then' part of the book, she has cleverly avoided being married off, since she brings honor and prestige to her family via her extraordinary musical talents and her continuing education right through a doctorate program. She is necessarily within the closet from a sexual orientation standpoint, but definitely is out as she ingeniously and with determination pursues Charlie. Clearly, she is the other half of this magnificent love story. Hazaar has put together a well thought out path to her liberation. However, as Robert Burns originally so aptly stated and I borrow from him “The best laid plans of mice and men [daughters and lovers] often go astray.” Hazaar is an eye-opener!
Charlie learns that Hazaar's name means nightingale in Arabic and it was a song titled Nightingale that eased Charlie's way into the Royal Northern College of Music. That is just the first of many touching and beautiful connections Charlie and Hazaar have. This multi-tiered story with a hot and sexy love story, an extremely exciting intense military-like task force operation marvelously intertwined with a host of outstanding supporting characters makes this book a wonderfully balanced and supremely entertaining read. I easily give this my highest recommendation. Truly, not to be missed!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Charlotte Porter, aka Charlie, has returned to finish her schooling after recovering from the traumatic death of a very close friend. She is a voice major with an apparently angelic and marvelously expressive talent although it is not given much airtime. Moreover, she has an extraordinary family that is very supportive and pleased she has hooked up with Hazaar. Well, Hazaar kind of stalks Charlie after she accompanies her during her voice audition on the piano. Charlie is one half of the amazing love story, but additionally she blossomed into an extremely talented and successful British embassy task force negotiator re-uniting British nationals who have been forcibly relocated to Pakistan with their British families. When Charlie is this bit of a rogue negotiator, the thriller part of this book unfolds. Charlie is rather a multi-talented woman. I loved her!
Hazaar Alim was born in Stockport, Great Britain. She is the youngest daughter of four with one brother of a devout Muslim family. Within the 'then' part of the book, she has cleverly avoided being married off, since she brings honor and prestige to her family via her extraordinary musical talents and her continuing education right through a doctorate program. She is necessarily within the closet from a sexual orientation standpoint, but definitely is out as she ingeniously and with determination pursues Charlie. Clearly, she is the other half of this magnificent love story. Hazaar has put together a well thought out path to her liberation. However, as Robert Burns originally so aptly stated and I borrow from him “The best laid plans of mice and men [daughters and lovers] often go astray.” Hazaar is an eye-opener!
Charlie learns that Hazaar's name means nightingale in Arabic and it was a song titled Nightingale that eased Charlie's way into the Royal Northern College of Music. That is just the first of many touching and beautiful connections Charlie and Hazaar have. This multi-tiered story with a hot and sexy love story, an extremely exciting intense military-like task force operation marvelously intertwined with a host of outstanding supporting characters makes this book a wonderfully balanced and supremely entertaining read. I easily give this my highest recommendation. Truly, not to be missed!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 13, 2018
This was horribly islamophobic and casually racist. Not to mention, but perhaps entirely related, unnecessarily gruesome. Very white-centered too: the white main character is this perfect, non-racist (in her mind), accepting and tolerant (non-judgmental of "Islam"), enlightened, benevolent savior. While the are petty, misogynistic, willfully ignorant, conservative Muslims who don't hesitate to sell their to a drug dealer in the name of honor and money. And of course, at the end, I don't know what I was expecting, really. Definitely not something that was sensitively crafted with obvious feedback from pertinent reviewers, but this was (unsurprisingly, but still disappointingly) a train-wreck of Anglo-American liberal, exploitative and manipulative, "we're enlightened and you're not" patronizing piece of writing.
September 28, 2024
5 stars. This is the type of book that makes me regret the fact that I stopped smoking almost a decade ago. Dramatic? Sure, but it’s true this book had my nerves all messed up and it dragged my emotions to hell and back. It hurt so bad. And I loved every single painful moment.
The writing is absolutely beautiful and the plot is heavy and heartbreaking but the romance is the beacon of light. I loved the romance between Charlie and Hazaar and how this is in a way a second chance romance. They are both wonderful and strong characters as individuals but them together? Impeccable. Their chemistry and the unbreakable bond and love between them was absolutely beautiful.
This alternates between the past when they were together and the present with Charlie trying to rescue Hazaar. I thought it was well balanced between the two time periods. I adored the way this ended. It was hard journey to get to that HEA but it was a beautiful payoff.
This was such a painful and brutal read but again the romance was top tier. So good and I’m excited to explore this author’s backlist.
The writing is absolutely beautiful and the plot is heavy and heartbreaking but the romance is the beacon of light. I loved the romance between Charlie and Hazaar and how this is in a way a second chance romance. They are both wonderful and strong characters as individuals but them together? Impeccable. Their chemistry and the unbreakable bond and love between them was absolutely beautiful.
This alternates between the past when they were together and the present with Charlie trying to rescue Hazaar. I thought it was well balanced between the two time periods. I adored the way this ended. It was hard journey to get to that HEA but it was a beautiful payoff.
This was such a painful and brutal read but again the romance was top tier. So good and I’m excited to explore this author’s backlist.
February 11, 2017
This book deals with a very touchy subject. A woman from a very traditional Muslim family falls in love with a white woman. What will she decide? Will she choose love or family?
I liked the book because it felt genuine. The love, the fear, the dedication touched my heart.
I think Andrea Bramhall was very brave to choose the subject, as it is hard to not fall into the trap of depicting the conflict in black and white. However, the characters of the books are quite deep and layered. They defy superficial preconceptions.
The story itself is really well written, full of suspense and with exquisite romantic moments. However don't read it, if you have a queasy stomach when reading about violence against women.
I especially liked Zehra Jane Naqvi's reading of the story, as she was able to bring to life all of the characters with precision. It must be quite hard to switch between accents so fluently and convincingly.
I liked the book because it felt genuine. The love, the fear, the dedication touched my heart.
I think Andrea Bramhall was very brave to choose the subject, as it is hard to not fall into the trap of depicting the conflict in black and white. However, the characters of the books are quite deep and layered. They defy superficial preconceptions.
The story itself is really well written, full of suspense and with exquisite romantic moments. However don't read it, if you have a queasy stomach when reading about violence against women.
I especially liked Zehra Jane Naqvi's reading of the story, as she was able to bring to life all of the characters with precision. It must be quite hard to switch between accents so fluently and convincingly.
March 25, 2016
I enjoyed this much more than I initially thought I would. I especially liked the research that was clearly undertaken with reference to the religious, cultural and social aspects of the characters. Sometimes it felt like that information HAD to be communicated, however, which led to long tranches of dialogue or exposition. It felt like a real action/adventure story and I loved the switching between past and present. The romance felt real...most of the time, but the intimate scenes were plagued with expected language/phrases that typify lesbian sex scenes. Not a dealbreaker, but I was jarred out of the story several times by it.
March 19, 2017
This was the first book that I read by Bramhall so when I came back to it I thought I might have overrated it since I have read quite a few of her books since then and I was expecting to to have to change my rating but I'm glad to say that all that has changed is that The Chameleon's Tale has joined it amongst my favorite books by Bramhall.
February 22, 2021
Jeeeez! This was super intense! I find myself going back and listening to my favorite parts. The narrator Zehra Jane Naqvi was/is outstanding. I laughed, cried, and clinched my chest throughout this book. Simply amazing!
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