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Anti-Romantic
Anti-Romantic is the story of two best friends - Zainab, who’s insanely in love with the only man her father can never like, and Sara, who‘s scared to fall in love because she thinks love always lead to heartbreaks, so she doesn’t want to live with a broken heart.
Sara likes things so simple that although her heart wants to fall in love, her mind contradicts the very idea of it. It’s good she found a magical ring that can compel people to do whatever she wants, as now she has something extraordinary to distract herself with.
Zainab only has one heart, and she gave it out to Fawad, the boy she loved ever since she knew what love meant. But how can she explain this to her father, who, for some unknown history, hates Fawad’s mother more than she’s ever seen him hate. How can she reveal her heart’s secret to him without causing complete chaos?
Anti-Romantic is a quintessential romance that’ll break your heart and mend it all over again, a story for hopeless romantics and for the ones who want to fall in love.
Sara likes things so simple that although her heart wants to fall in love, her mind contradicts the very idea of it. It’s good she found a magical ring that can compel people to do whatever she wants, as now she has something extraordinary to distract herself with.
Zainab only has one heart, and she gave it out to Fawad, the boy she loved ever since she knew what love meant. But how can she explain this to her father, who, for some unknown history, hates Fawad’s mother more than she’s ever seen him hate. How can she reveal her heart’s secret to him without causing complete chaos?
Anti-Romantic is a quintessential romance that’ll break your heart and mend it all over again, a story for hopeless romantics and for the ones who want to fall in love.
420 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2023
4 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 15, 2024
I knew before picking this up that I probably wasn't going to be the target audience for this book. However, it's set in Dubai, a debut book by a Bangladeshi author, and the cover is cute.
As suspected, this isn't a book for me. This is very YA and quite melodramatic.
We have two main characters, Sara and Zainab, which read very similar, which was tricky. Sara is our anti romantic and Zainab is healing from a broken heart.
There's too much crooning, mumbling, honking, huffed laughs, and twisted lips here for me to really get behind this book however its always encouraging to see local authors getting published in the region.
Two stars.
As suspected, this isn't a book for me. This is very YA and quite melodramatic.
We have two main characters, Sara and Zainab, which read very similar, which was tricky. Sara is our anti romantic and Zainab is healing from a broken heart.
There's too much crooning, mumbling, honking, huffed laughs, and twisted lips here for me to really get behind this book however its always encouraging to see local authors getting published in the region.
Two stars.
June 30, 2024
the amount of time I spent rereading this book is insane, but I giggled and enjoyed it every time, and I’m not saying this ‘cause I’m it’s infamous author—
October 5, 2023
Thank you so much to the author who sent me the e-book version ! And congratulations to Samama on her debut novel 👏
Anti-Romantic was an easy read; I breezed through it.
Synopsis:
Sara and Zainab both have very different views about what love is, but both are best friends. Anti- Romantic portrays how one's experience with love, relationships, and grief can cause someone to change their view on it.
Coming to the story- I felt that it would've been better if the author concentrated on one character in this book and the other one in the next as I couldn't find any connection between the two other than their friendship. It felt that the novel was concentrated more towards Zainab rather than Sara. If the book was separated by character, it would've been more interesting as the characters' arcs were intriguing to read about. Also, the magical ring ? Honestly, I didn't really understand the point of it 😕 or how it was helping the story. I was more invested in Zainab and Fawads' story rather than Murad and Sara - even though Zainabs was a Desi cliche. The book also could've been shorter.
I guess we'll just have to wait for the next book 🤷🏻♀️
Actual rating : 2.5/5 🌟
Anti-Romantic was an easy read; I breezed through it.
Synopsis:
Sara and Zainab both have very different views about what love is, but both are best friends. Anti- Romantic portrays how one's experience with love, relationships, and grief can cause someone to change their view on it.
Coming to the story- I felt that it would've been better if the author concentrated on one character in this book and the other one in the next as I couldn't find any connection between the two other than their friendship. It felt that the novel was concentrated more towards Zainab rather than Sara. If the book was separated by character, it would've been more interesting as the characters' arcs were intriguing to read about. Also, the magical ring ? Honestly, I didn't really understand the point of it 😕 or how it was helping the story. I was more invested in Zainab and Fawads' story rather than Murad and Sara - even though Zainabs was a Desi cliche. The book also could've been shorter.
I guess we'll just have to wait for the next book 🤷🏻♀️
Actual rating : 2.5/5 🌟
October 4, 2023
“Love is like a pickle, bittersweet, yet you love having it again once you get the taste of it,”
☆ Childhood Lovers
☆ Friends to lovers
☆ True love romance
☆ Family Issues
☆ Angst
☆ South east Asian Rep
That's a basic list, but this book is all of that and SO MUCH MORE. Isn't it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, Makes you put yourself in the shoes of the characters, have an engaging plot line with intriguing side stories inbetween and gives you a simple yet beautiful read? I was able to find all of them in this Debut novel of Samana Reza.
Anti Romantic is so well written, I felt what Sara felt, I was her and she was me.When she fell for him, i fell for him too! It also showcases friendship between Sara and Zainab along with their own relationships. The author was able to voice the pain and the feeling of the characters vividly and remarkably.
The book ends in a cliffhanger making us anticipated and eager to read the next part of the novel. I will more than likely read the next part, because I cant stand to leave a story unfinished
☆ Childhood Lovers
☆ Friends to lovers
☆ True love romance
☆ Family Issues
☆ Angst
☆ South east Asian Rep
That's a basic list, but this book is all of that and SO MUCH MORE. Isn't it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, Makes you put yourself in the shoes of the characters, have an engaging plot line with intriguing side stories inbetween and gives you a simple yet beautiful read? I was able to find all of them in this Debut novel of Samana Reza.
Anti Romantic is so well written, I felt what Sara felt, I was her and she was me.When she fell for him, i fell for him too! It also showcases friendship between Sara and Zainab along with their own relationships. The author was able to voice the pain and the feeling of the characters vividly and remarkably.
The book ends in a cliffhanger making us anticipated and eager to read the next part of the novel. I will more than likely read the next part, because I cant stand to leave a story unfinished
September 19, 2023
I know it's gonna be the best ❤️
Edit :
I binged it last night and simply blown away by how simple but powerful the storytelling was!!
This is the story of Sara and Zainab, 2 friends as different as chalk and cheese. The book follows an intricate pattern of weaving past with the present and it was done seamlessly and didn't seem patchy. The writing style is very simple but so exuberant and alive, it showcases the diversity in personalities of all the characters.
Sara is this fresh, saracastic, wanting to live life on her own terms kinda girl and she's reluctant to accept her feelings about Murad who wears his heart on his sleeves and is upfront about his feelings. I really enjoyed Murad's character, he dialled the flirt on in each scene and it made me smile so hard.
Can you tell that I'm in love with Murad knowing he's gonna reject me because he loves Sara? 🥲
Zainab, is a traditionalist but she's in love with Fawad and vice versa, it's True love that knows no boundaries. Family issues aside. They marry. I love how solid and sure Fawad is about his future with Zainab.
Book 1 ends on a cliffhanger.
Overall, the writer better be working on book 2 because the cliffhanger was cruel and left me :O :"(.
Congratulations on your debut novel Samama Reza! 💟
Edit :
I binged it last night and simply blown away by how simple but powerful the storytelling was!!
This is the story of Sara and Zainab, 2 friends as different as chalk and cheese. The book follows an intricate pattern of weaving past with the present and it was done seamlessly and didn't seem patchy. The writing style is very simple but so exuberant and alive, it showcases the diversity in personalities of all the characters.
Sara is this fresh, saracastic, wanting to live life on her own terms kinda girl and she's reluctant to accept her feelings about Murad who wears his heart on his sleeves and is upfront about his feelings. I really enjoyed Murad's character, he dialled the flirt on in each scene and it made me smile so hard.
Can you tell that I'm in love with Murad knowing he's gonna reject me because he loves Sara? 🥲
Zainab, is a traditionalist but she's in love with Fawad and vice versa, it's True love that knows no boundaries. Family issues aside. They marry. I love how solid and sure Fawad is about his future with Zainab.
Book 1 ends on a cliffhanger.
Overall, the writer better be working on book 2 because the cliffhanger was cruel and left me :O :"(.
Congratulations on your debut novel Samama Reza! 💟
June 2, 2025
Congrats on publishing your book. Its a big achievement. Lets start with the characters- Zainab and Fawad..beautifully written. There love tender and earnest. Very descriptive.. I specially loved the wedding sequence in Pakistan. Zainab was badass for what she went through to start again from scratch.
Coming to Sara and Murad.. Sara is annoying like its no one's business. Why is she snapping and getting angry at everyone who is not Murad or Zainab. Thats not badass but just bad behaiviour..And Murad just fuelling it..I have never seen someone who behaves the way sara does. Murad definetly had potential to be the grounding force for sara to evolve but hoping that becomes one in the future.
Writing is easy and the book moves ahead but i kept searching for plot that i never got. Dialogues are cheesy but thats ok. Also what was the ring story line.it really was very unrealistic and seriously dnt make sense connecting to the story of the 2 protaganist.
2 stars exclusively for Fawad and Zainab
Coming to Sara and Murad.. Sara is annoying like its no one's business. Why is she snapping and getting angry at everyone who is not Murad or Zainab. Thats not badass but just bad behaiviour..And Murad just fuelling it..I have never seen someone who behaves the way sara does. Murad definetly had potential to be the grounding force for sara to evolve but hoping that becomes one in the future.
Writing is easy and the book moves ahead but i kept searching for plot that i never got. Dialogues are cheesy but thats ok. Also what was the ring story line.it really was very unrealistic and seriously dnt make sense connecting to the story of the 2 protaganist.
2 stars exclusively for Fawad and Zainab
September 20, 2023
Love the cover and title. They are unique and invite the reader. A carnival is always fun. The colours are great to catch the eye. And then the puzzling title.I mean what is anti romance? Is it a thing, a state of mind, a fear of commitment? You have to read Samama’s book to discover. Then you will enter the world of two young girl friends who are working their way through this premise as well. This is a great first novel, well written and edited. Didn’t notice any typos! That is great for any novel especially self published. Stay tuned there is a sequel.
February 3, 2024
i am giving it 3 stars cuz i am being sequel baited to wait for the next one which i hope comes out soon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
Honestly Sara and Murad need to get a room cause the tension there daym 🫣 loved how the Author has described emotions of sadness, happiness, love and pain. I could understand Sara's conflict with herself when it came to Murad. Was panicking with Zainab when she was waiting for Fawad. Can't wait for the next book!
September 9, 2023
Ain't good with words but this amazing piece of literature deserves some amazing words of praise. Even with 2 parallel storylines in 2 different times, the book so skillfully intervenes Zainab and Sara's characters and stories. And I AM IN LOVE WITH MURAD! I just need a part 2 with a happy Sara-Murad ending.
Extremely easy and light to read. Loved that the book was successful in letting readers feel 2 completely different emotions in the same book. Too good to be a debut novel ❤️😫
Extremely easy and light to read. Loved that the book was successful in letting readers feel 2 completely different emotions in the same book. Too good to be a debut novel ❤️😫
December 27, 2023
3.75 stars
I loved the fact this book reminds me of my teenage years, zainab and fawad story gives the vibes of those beautiful pakistani series warm love stories.
Sara reminds me of myself with all this confusions, and fears, and the war between the heart and mind.
the book is heartbreaking, I cried a lot, but also I felt a lot of beautiful emotions.
I need the next one now please.
I loved the fact this book reminds me of my teenage years, zainab and fawad story gives the vibes of those beautiful pakistani series warm love stories.
Sara reminds me of myself with all this confusions, and fears, and the war between the heart and mind.
the book is heartbreaking, I cried a lot, but also I felt a lot of beautiful emotions.
I need the next one now please.
October 2, 2023
I enjoyed this simple and powerful story. The book is well written and makes good light reading.
This is a story of two friends Sara and Zainab, they are complete opposites. They both have differing views on love and life.
Sara is a bubbly, lively, and outgoing character with wit and sarcasm. She has a dare-devil streak in her and sneaks out of the house on her rendezvous with Murad. She is very anti-romantic and is reluctant to accept any feelings for her close friend Murad, who is very upfront about his feelings. They have a very jokey attitude towards each other. The book has you smiling and giggling at these two characters encounters.
Zainab on the other hand is in a stable job, and is more of a traditionalist. She is in love with Fawad and the feeling is mutual for him too. They come across many family pressures, but overcome them and do finally get married.
The story is narrated in the present time for Sara and goes back in time for Zainab’s love story. Towards the end Sara finally admits her feelings for Murad, but fate has other plans. On the other hand Zainab has loss and heartbreak.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I await the sequel.
This is a story of two friends Sara and Zainab, they are complete opposites. They both have differing views on love and life.
Sara is a bubbly, lively, and outgoing character with wit and sarcasm. She has a dare-devil streak in her and sneaks out of the house on her rendezvous with Murad. She is very anti-romantic and is reluctant to accept any feelings for her close friend Murad, who is very upfront about his feelings. They have a very jokey attitude towards each other. The book has you smiling and giggling at these two characters encounters.
Zainab on the other hand is in a stable job, and is more of a traditionalist. She is in love with Fawad and the feeling is mutual for him too. They come across many family pressures, but overcome them and do finally get married.
The story is narrated in the present time for Sara and goes back in time for Zainab’s love story. Towards the end Sara finally admits her feelings for Murad, but fate has other plans. On the other hand Zainab has loss and heartbreak.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I await the sequel.
December 3, 2023
- Okayy so here’s my review on Anti Romantics, this book reminded me of my teenage self—being young and in love.
This book is about friendship, love, and loss.
So many emotions. So much desi drama too.
Won’t give any spoilers but just grab some tissues for the ending.
4.5⭐️
This book is about friendship, love, and loss.
So many emotions. So much desi drama too.
Won’t give any spoilers but just grab some tissues for the ending.
4.5⭐️
February 25, 2024
This book stole my heart. I usually don't read a long book in a short period of time. I've read this 450 pages book in two days. Actually not read, I devoured it. Thank you to the author for sending me this book. This book is written by our local Bangladeshi author who lives in Dubai. One thing I love about the books written by Bangladeshi authors is that they can beautifully showcase our culture, our environment so beautifully thay we can all relate to the story. Whenever I read any English book, mostly I can not relate to the story because we don't get it here. Our south Asian parents and culture are so different and strict. I was literally crying while reading this book. I could relate to it so much.
This book is about two friends, Zainab and Sara, and their separate love story. Sara's story is written on presents timeline and Zainab's on four years ago. Both the story were traumatic for me. If you read this story you'd know that our parents are not so cool with us having a relationship and we always hide it from our parents and family untill the time for marriage comes. Zainab and Fawad loves each other with their whole heart but Zainab is afraid what will her parents say if they knew about their relationship. On the other hand, after four years, Sara is afraid of falling in love as her father will not tolerate her having a guy friend behind his back let alone having a relationship and she has seen Zainab in love and what love did to her. But she can not help but melting in the sweet gesture of Murad, her neighbour. Murad is such a gentleman. He's funny,adorable, flirty and knows how to make his girl happy. He's everything a girl needs in her life. I just love how beautifully she portrayed two stories together and connected with each other.
This book ends on a cliffhanger which broke me again. Now I want the next book as soon as possible. This book should not have ended like this. I WANT THE NEXT BOOK SOOOOOOON.
This book is about two friends, Zainab and Sara, and their separate love story. Sara's story is written on presents timeline and Zainab's on four years ago. Both the story were traumatic for me. If you read this story you'd know that our parents are not so cool with us having a relationship and we always hide it from our parents and family untill the time for marriage comes. Zainab and Fawad loves each other with their whole heart but Zainab is afraid what will her parents say if they knew about their relationship. On the other hand, after four years, Sara is afraid of falling in love as her father will not tolerate her having a guy friend behind his back let alone having a relationship and she has seen Zainab in love and what love did to her. But she can not help but melting in the sweet gesture of Murad, her neighbour. Murad is such a gentleman. He's funny,adorable, flirty and knows how to make his girl happy. He's everything a girl needs in her life. I just love how beautifully she portrayed two stories together and connected with each other.
This book ends on a cliffhanger which broke me again. Now I want the next book as soon as possible. This book should not have ended like this. I WANT THE NEXT BOOK SOOOOOOON.
December 17, 2023
Oh My God. THIS. BOOK.
First of all, a thousand congratulations to the brilliant author Samama Reza! Books aren't easy to write and it takes a lot of courage to share one's debut work with the rest of the world.
It would be an understatement if I told you I am infatuated with his book. The thought of it makes me all fluttery and giggly. The characters, the setting (Dubai - yes I am biased toward my favourite city), the accuracies of parent behaviour.
I love love love Sara and Zainab's priceless friendship and I love to think that both the girls are struggling to have a happily-ever-after because one's tragic story has rubbed off on the other and now both of them are too afraid to come near love. Let's just say that they are both very anti-romantic.
Murad? Yes, I am ready to marry him. I mean, my name is Sarah... Lol. Sara is such a feisty character and so much fun to read. I'm ambivalent towards the way she treats Murad but it is quite hilarious at times. Also, it hurts to think that Murad doesn't really exist and it's so unfair that such amazing boys only exist in books.
Fawad was also such a sweet husband to Zainab. Although, I was not expecting the ending. I kept wondering what it was that had happened to make Zainab so upset. I am shocked to find out that it is based on true events. I can't wrap my mind around it.
Do I want to read more of Sara-Zainab banter and Murad-Sara quipping? Obviously. Do I want to know what happens and hope to see both the girls have their happily-ever-after? Definitely yes. Can I wait for the next book to come out? Absolutely not!
Samama I need to know what happens! I need a release date ASAP. Since I know Samama in real life maybe I can bribe her to let me read a few chapters of the second novel? It's unlikely but it never hurts to tryyy, right?
First of all, a thousand congratulations to the brilliant author Samama Reza! Books aren't easy to write and it takes a lot of courage to share one's debut work with the rest of the world.
It would be an understatement if I told you I am infatuated with his book. The thought of it makes me all fluttery and giggly. The characters, the setting (Dubai - yes I am biased toward my favourite city), the accuracies of parent behaviour.
I love love love Sara and Zainab's priceless friendship and I love to think that both the girls are struggling to have a happily-ever-after because one's tragic story has rubbed off on the other and now both of them are too afraid to come near love. Let's just say that they are both very anti-romantic.
Murad? Yes, I am ready to marry him. I mean, my name is Sarah... Lol. Sara is such a feisty character and so much fun to read. I'm ambivalent towards the way she treats Murad but it is quite hilarious at times. Also, it hurts to think that Murad doesn't really exist and it's so unfair that such amazing boys only exist in books.
Fawad was also such a sweet husband to Zainab. Although, I was not expecting the ending. I kept wondering what it was that had happened to make Zainab so upset. I am shocked to find out that it is based on true events. I can't wrap my mind around it.
Do I want to read more of Sara-Zainab banter and Murad-Sara quipping? Obviously. Do I want to know what happens and hope to see both the girls have their happily-ever-after? Definitely yes. Can I wait for the next book to come out? Absolutely not!
Samama I need to know what happens! I need a release date ASAP. Since I know Samama in real life maybe I can bribe her to let me read a few chapters of the second novel? It's unlikely but it never hurts to tryyy, right?
December 21, 2023
If you think one love story is enough, think again. Anti-Romantic is about two unique stories between two beautiful couples, both past and present.
Samama's debut novel centers around Sara & Murad, and Zainab & Fawad, two pairs trying to navigate the hardships of letting themselves fall in love.
Sara, who doesn't believe love ends in true happiness, meets her match in the sarcastic and endearing Murad, who calls her baby and woos her every chance he gets.
Zainab and Fawad are a match made in heaven, but their troubles lie in their families accepting their love for the treasure it is.
Samama's talents lie in telling multiple yet strikingly different stories and blending them seamlessly together to create a journey that is not only easy to read, but has you laughing and feeling for the couple's heartaches. She's also thrown in an interesting twist in the form of a compulsion ring, which lets the reader see a different side of one of her characters.
I'm incredibly proud of my friend for pursuing her dreams of becoming an author, and I will be eagerly awaiting the sequel!
Samama's debut novel centers around Sara & Murad, and Zainab & Fawad, two pairs trying to navigate the hardships of letting themselves fall in love.
Sara, who doesn't believe love ends in true happiness, meets her match in the sarcastic and endearing Murad, who calls her baby and woos her every chance he gets.
Zainab and Fawad are a match made in heaven, but their troubles lie in their families accepting their love for the treasure it is.
Samama's talents lie in telling multiple yet strikingly different stories and blending them seamlessly together to create a journey that is not only easy to read, but has you laughing and feeling for the couple's heartaches. She's also thrown in an interesting twist in the form of a compulsion ring, which lets the reader see a different side of one of her characters.
I'm incredibly proud of my friend for pursuing her dreams of becoming an author, and I will be eagerly awaiting the sequel!
October 9, 2023
When I say I am in love with all the 4 main characters!
Sara&Murad,Zainab&Fawad!!
This book has to be one of the most beautiful yet heartbreaking ones I’ve ever read! The author did a great job at describing the scenes and I honestly felt like I was inside the book while all of that was happening! I laughed, I cried , I got emotional, I felt happy, I felt angry, I blushed as if I was the one all of those things were happening to, and so many more emotions! In my opinion this book is a total package! The cultures are represented so beautifully and respectfully. I personally related to both the characters very much and the playlist on the author’s instagram just enhanced the experience 100x more!
Listened to all the songs according to the scene !
There is another book coming out soon (hopefully) and I cannot wait to read that Bcz I feel empty now that I finished the book! I am still emotionally attached lol!
Sara&Murad,Zainab&Fawad!!
This book has to be one of the most beautiful yet heartbreaking ones I’ve ever read! The author did a great job at describing the scenes and I honestly felt like I was inside the book while all of that was happening! I laughed, I cried , I got emotional, I felt happy, I felt angry, I blushed as if I was the one all of those things were happening to, and so many more emotions! In my opinion this book is a total package! The cultures are represented so beautifully and respectfully. I personally related to both the characters very much and the playlist on the author’s instagram just enhanced the experience 100x more!
Listened to all the songs according to the scene !
There is another book coming out soon (hopefully) and I cannot wait to read that Bcz I feel empty now that I finished the book! I am still emotionally attached lol!
January 9, 2025
this book belongs to a wonderful book writer when I read this 🥹❤️❤️book the story instantly make me smile the characters every step of the moment of the story was amazing heart touching emotional love the ending I lost words when that heartbreaking news comes the story ends I got so attach to this book every book bring so much inspiring story and this is my favourite book made me so much happy inspiring I am so glad I read this book I want to say this beautiful writer you are amazing and keep writing your beautiful words and God bless you you are my favourite my forever favourite book Anti-Romantic ❤️❤️❤️
October 7, 2023
First of all,Congrats on the novel!
Here are my thoughts on it. I really liked zainab and fawad's story.Their relationship was cute and their ending left me curious for more. I know many readers adored Murad,however Fawad stood out for me.On the flip side,I felt that Sara could benefit from some character development. The way she snapped at people was a bit off putting.Hoping to see a better version of her in the sequel.
Here are my thoughts on it. I really liked zainab and fawad's story.Their relationship was cute and their ending left me curious for more. I know many readers adored Murad,however Fawad stood out for me.On the flip side,I felt that Sara could benefit from some character development. The way she snapped at people was a bit off putting.Hoping to see a better version of her in the sequel.
February 19, 2024
What an amazing read. The characters, the setup, the plot line is absolutely perfect. Love love loved it. And the main reason I loved this book so much is because the characters belong from my country, or neighbouring countries. It’s a story of people from Bangladesh, Pakistan. Amazing how Samama brought out the culture and family situations into this love story because that’s exactly how it goes in our life.
I am in love with Zainab and Fawad. And Murad. Sara is kinda annoying but I think that was intentional.
Can’t wait for book 2.
I am in love with Zainab and Fawad. And Murad. Sara is kinda annoying but I think that was intentional.
Can’t wait for book 2.
May 1, 2024
Wooow what a gem!! I love books that are based in the UAE. I love how the scenes are beautifully described… it just sits vividly in my mind! I love the romance between Fawad and Zainab… makes you giggle while you’re not aware ❤️ a book that’s very soulful, you feel like wanting to read it while relaxing after a looong day. Thank you Samama for this gem!
May 23, 2024
I am a slow reader so it took me so much time to finish this book but it was WORTH IT.
i have a thing for heartbreaking books and although i knew this was a sad book, i didn’t know it was THIS SAD.
i simply cannot be into a book if it doesn’t RIP me apart from within and this book did WITHOUT FAIL🤩🙌
Murad - I wish you were real
Sara - you are my soul sister
Zainab - i need to give you a hug
Fawad - i wish you had a longer life
every time i read about Zainab, my heart broke into pieces for her.
every time i read about how Sara couldn’t see her best friend that way, it broke my heart EVEN MORE
EVERY TIME I READ ABOUT HOW MURAD IS MADLY IN LOVE WITH SARA, I WANTED TO SCREAAAMMMM (i did internally)
i simply cannot wait to read the second boooook!!
i have a thing for heartbreaking books and although i knew this was a sad book, i didn’t know it was THIS SAD.
i simply cannot be into a book if it doesn’t RIP me apart from within and this book did WITHOUT FAIL🤩🙌
Murad - I wish you were real
Sara - you are my soul sister
Zainab - i need to give you a hug
Fawad - i wish you had a longer life
every time i read about Zainab, my heart broke into pieces for her.
every time i read about how Sara couldn’t see her best friend that way, it broke my heart EVEN MORE
EVERY TIME I READ ABOUT HOW MURAD IS MADLY IN LOVE WITH SARA, I WANTED TO SCREAAAMMMM (i did internally)
i simply cannot wait to read the second boooook!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2024
I enjoyed reading the book and would highly recommend it! Can’t wait for the next book.
November 23, 2023
made me giggle scream cry and repeat!!
January 29, 2024
first book of the year, enjoyed it. looking forward to the next book.
January 15, 2025
1st time - I really loved this book. It really made me cry out loud sometimes. Everything is too perfect to be real.
Zainab & Fawad's happily after married life just began until the day came when Fawad went missing & leaving Zainab alone in his cruel world to survive alone. I was more into Fawad and Zainab more than Sara & Murad. Maybe their love was too perfect and similar for the real world. I really need more chapters of Zainab than Sara.
2nd time - I don’t even know where to start because Anti Romantic is everything I didn’t know I needed—again. This is my second time reading it, and I’m still just as in love as I was the first time. When I got it as an ARC, I knew it was going to be something special, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This series hooked me from the very beginning, and Anti Romantic remains my favorite.
Samama Reza’s writing is so raw and beautiful—it’s like reading someone’s heart poured out on paper. The characters are everything. They’re so real, flawed, and human, with moments of vulnerability that make them impossible not to connect with. Watching their growth throughout the book made me cheer for them even more. Their struggles, their desires, their journey—everything felt like something I could relate to. It’s hard not to get invested in their lives.
What makes it hit even harder is knowing that this story is based on real life. Every time I recall that, it breaks my heart all over again. To see something so painfully true captured so beautifully in this book—it's impossible not to feel deeply moved by it.
This book isn’t just a love story—it’s an emotional experience. It explores love, heartbreak, and healing in such an honest way. It’s not sugarcoated, but it’s not overly dramatic either—it’s just real. Every page had me hooked, either smiling like an idiot or on the verge of tears. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause, think, and even question a few things about yourself.
This is easily a five-star read, both the first time and now. It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after you close it, and I know I’ll come back to it again. Honestly, it’s an underrated gem that deserves so much more recognition.
Zainab & Fawad's happily after married life just began until the day came when Fawad went missing & leaving Zainab alone in his cruel world to survive alone. I was more into Fawad and Zainab more than Sara & Murad. Maybe their love was too perfect and similar for the real world. I really need more chapters of Zainab than Sara.
2nd time - I don’t even know where to start because Anti Romantic is everything I didn’t know I needed—again. This is my second time reading it, and I’m still just as in love as I was the first time. When I got it as an ARC, I knew it was going to be something special, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This series hooked me from the very beginning, and Anti Romantic remains my favorite.
Samama Reza’s writing is so raw and beautiful—it’s like reading someone’s heart poured out on paper. The characters are everything. They’re so real, flawed, and human, with moments of vulnerability that make them impossible not to connect with. Watching their growth throughout the book made me cheer for them even more. Their struggles, their desires, their journey—everything felt like something I could relate to. It’s hard not to get invested in their lives.
What makes it hit even harder is knowing that this story is based on real life. Every time I recall that, it breaks my heart all over again. To see something so painfully true captured so beautifully in this book—it's impossible not to feel deeply moved by it.
This book isn’t just a love story—it’s an emotional experience. It explores love, heartbreak, and healing in such an honest way. It’s not sugarcoated, but it’s not overly dramatic either—it’s just real. Every page had me hooked, either smiling like an idiot or on the verge of tears. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause, think, and even question a few things about yourself.
This is easily a five-star read, both the first time and now. It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after you close it, and I know I’ll come back to it again. Honestly, it’s an underrated gem that deserves so much more recognition.
December 3, 2023
A very fascinating book, many real characters and a pleasure to read; kept me hooked from first till the last chapter. Definitely worth the time I invested in reading. I must admit the ending shocked me. I wonder what the sequel would hold.
March 3, 2024
⚠️MY REVIEW MIGHT CONTAIN A BIT SPOILER⚠️
Okay....So, I came across a Bangladeshi author living in Dubai through my bookstagram...I soon tried reading her book and communited with her...
Coming to review:
I really really loved her writing style and the way she potrayed dual timeline...It holded enough mystery to go on and enough emotions to cry out loud...
The book is basically about two best friends, Sara & Zainab and their love lives....Sara is scared to fall in love seeing her friend, Zainab heartbroken from loving someone so truly & deeply...
However, Murad is madly in love with Sara but Sara refuses to accept their relationship more than friends...But she do like him approaching everytime...She does not want him to ever stop trying even if she rejects him all the time...She might also be a bit jealous of all the girls comes closer to Murad but she refuses to accept that she loves him...
On the other hand, Zainab loves Fawad fearlessly...She has been loving him since she knew what love is...Fawad loves her to the eternity....He wants to support her and every dream she has but also wants to start living with her as soon as possible...In these long years, distance never tore them apart....Fawad lives in Pakistan and Zainab in Dubai...Yet, they managed to love each other like noone imagined...Their love was too perfect to just explain in a few words...He wanted to shift in Dubai, take up a job and settle there just for Zainab....However, it seemed a bit impossible as Zainab's father & Fawad's mother had some old histories and they were not in good terms at all...Still, this way or that way they managed to conquer all the obstacles with their love and finally got married in their hometown Pakistan...
Everything was too perfect to be real...Zainab & Fawad's happily married life just began until the day came when Fawad went missing....Leaving Zainab alone in this cruel world to survive alone....💔 I guess their love was too perfect for this real world....
My feelings: -
💟 I really really really loved Fawad & Zainab...Literally I'm crying over them since I finished the book & listening to their playlist over n over...I will never be over them...Never...
💟 Sara & Murad's love story was a bit off here for me... As I did not liked the character of Sara....She was way too selfish to treat Murad like that even after knowing he loves her so much...
💟 Sara's fear for falling in love somehow did not justified her treatment towards Murad...Even when she was leaving for Bangladesh, she didn't say anything to him which was kind of irritating...
💟 Her choice for lives were a bit over my head...Like choosing a subject to study or support her single dad, etc...
💟 Though I loved Murad, but one thing I did not like was the way he insulted Sara's old her😑 I mean it was not right to say, "I'm not getting in that dirty thing." That was quite rude of him...
💟 Also, I was more into Fawad & Zainab than Sara & Murad....I actually wanted more chapters of Zainab than Sara.....
Okay....So, I came across a Bangladeshi author living in Dubai through my bookstagram...I soon tried reading her book and communited with her...
Coming to review:
I really really loved her writing style and the way she potrayed dual timeline...It holded enough mystery to go on and enough emotions to cry out loud...
The book is basically about two best friends, Sara & Zainab and their love lives....Sara is scared to fall in love seeing her friend, Zainab heartbroken from loving someone so truly & deeply...
However, Murad is madly in love with Sara but Sara refuses to accept their relationship more than friends...But she do like him approaching everytime...She does not want him to ever stop trying even if she rejects him all the time...She might also be a bit jealous of all the girls comes closer to Murad but she refuses to accept that she loves him...
On the other hand, Zainab loves Fawad fearlessly...She has been loving him since she knew what love is...Fawad loves her to the eternity....He wants to support her and every dream she has but also wants to start living with her as soon as possible...In these long years, distance never tore them apart....Fawad lives in Pakistan and Zainab in Dubai...Yet, they managed to love each other like noone imagined...Their love was too perfect to just explain in a few words...He wanted to shift in Dubai, take up a job and settle there just for Zainab....However, it seemed a bit impossible as Zainab's father & Fawad's mother had some old histories and they were not in good terms at all...Still, this way or that way they managed to conquer all the obstacles with their love and finally got married in their hometown Pakistan...
Everything was too perfect to be real...Zainab & Fawad's happily married life just began until the day came when Fawad went missing....Leaving Zainab alone in this cruel world to survive alone....💔 I guess their love was too perfect for this real world....
My feelings: -
💟 I really really really loved Fawad & Zainab...Literally I'm crying over them since I finished the book & listening to their playlist over n over...I will never be over them...Never...
💟 Sara & Murad's love story was a bit off here for me... As I did not liked the character of Sara....She was way too selfish to treat Murad like that even after knowing he loves her so much...
💟 Sara's fear for falling in love somehow did not justified her treatment towards Murad...Even when she was leaving for Bangladesh, she didn't say anything to him which was kind of irritating...
💟 Her choice for lives were a bit over my head...Like choosing a subject to study or support her single dad, etc...
💟 Though I loved Murad, but one thing I did not like was the way he insulted Sara's old her😑 I mean it was not right to say, "I'm not getting in that dirty thing." That was quite rude of him...
💟 Also, I was more into Fawad & Zainab than Sara & Murad....I actually wanted more chapters of Zainab than Sara.....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
"Anti-Romantic" is a novel that ventures into the intricacies of love, friendship, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of contemporary urban life in Dubai, the story follows the lives of two best friends, Zainab, a Pakistani, and Sara, a Bangali, as they navigate their respective romantic relationships and individual struggles. I'm lucky to call this amazing writer a friend, who was kind enough to send me an ebook copy. 🫶
At the heart of the narrative are Zainab and Fawad, whose love story is portrayed with tenderness and earnestness. The wedding sequence in Pakistan stands out as a poignant moment, rich in cultural detail and emotional depth. Zainab's resilience in starting anew after facing adversity showcases her as a compelling protagonist.
However, I can't say the same for Sara and Murad's storyline. While flawed characters can add depth to a narrative, Murad, despite his potential as a grounding force for Sara's growth, fails to fulfill this role effectively, leaving their dynamic feeling stagnant. They were cute nonetheless and I want to see more of their growth in the sequel.
I want to add that I felt a lack of a cohesive plot in the novel, which left me often feeling adrift. The inclusion of the magical ring storyline also felt forced and out of place within the larger context of the novel. Also, a personal ick: I'm not a fan of the use of the word "Bengali," but I know many diasporas who refer to themselves as such, so I kinda swallowed it up.
Despite these slight shortcomings, Samama's writing style is engaging and easy to follow. The dialogue, while occasionally cheesy, flows smoothly and contributes to the overall pacing of the novel.
I feel like I've outgrown this genre, especially the use of cheesy dialogues, but because the characters are so diverse and I could relate to Sara's irritation at weddings, I genuinely enjoyed the novel and went through it in a breeze. Samama's next work holds the promise of greater depth and complexity.
At the heart of the narrative are Zainab and Fawad, whose love story is portrayed with tenderness and earnestness. The wedding sequence in Pakistan stands out as a poignant moment, rich in cultural detail and emotional depth. Zainab's resilience in starting anew after facing adversity showcases her as a compelling protagonist.
However, I can't say the same for Sara and Murad's storyline. While flawed characters can add depth to a narrative, Murad, despite his potential as a grounding force for Sara's growth, fails to fulfill this role effectively, leaving their dynamic feeling stagnant. They were cute nonetheless and I want to see more of their growth in the sequel.
I want to add that I felt a lack of a cohesive plot in the novel, which left me often feeling adrift. The inclusion of the magical ring storyline also felt forced and out of place within the larger context of the novel. Also, a personal ick: I'm not a fan of the use of the word "Bengali," but I know many diasporas who refer to themselves as such, so I kinda swallowed it up.
Despite these slight shortcomings, Samama's writing style is engaging and easy to follow. The dialogue, while occasionally cheesy, flows smoothly and contributes to the overall pacing of the novel.
I feel like I've outgrown this genre, especially the use of cheesy dialogues, but because the characters are so diverse and I could relate to Sara's irritation at weddings, I genuinely enjoyed the novel and went through it in a breeze. Samama's next work holds the promise of greater depth and complexity.
March 11, 2025
Anti-Romantic is not just a book; it’s an emotional journey that lingers on even after you’ve turned the last page. Samama has crafted a story that is as real as it is enchanting, weaving together the lives of two couples—Murad and Sara, and Zainab and Fawad—in a way that feels deeply personal and universally relatable.
The beauty of this book lies in its ability to capture the nuances of love and friendship with such authenticity. Murad and Sara’s relationship blossoms with passion & intensity, while Fatima and Fawad’s bond is a testament to the power of undying love & patience. Their stories are interwoven beautifully that will make you laugh, cry, and feel those delightful butterflies in your stomach.
What truly sets Anti-Romantic apart is how Samama has rooted the story in the rich cultural backdrop of desi upbringing in the Gulf; it feels like a love letter to a shared experience.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions—it made me happy, it made me cry, and it left me yearning for more. The writing is heartfelt and evocative, with a narrative that flows effortlessly, pulling you deeper into the lives of these lovely characters. By the end, I was left with a warm, fuzzy feeling and an eagerness to dive into part two and finding myself a MURAD😭❤️
If you’re looking for a story that celebrates love, friendship, and the beauty of cultural identity, *Anti-Romantic* is a must-read. Samama has poured her heart into this book, and it shows in every word. Bravo to the author for creating something so beautiful and genuine. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
The beauty of this book lies in its ability to capture the nuances of love and friendship with such authenticity. Murad and Sara’s relationship blossoms with passion & intensity, while Fatima and Fawad’s bond is a testament to the power of undying love & patience. Their stories are interwoven beautifully that will make you laugh, cry, and feel those delightful butterflies in your stomach.
What truly sets Anti-Romantic apart is how Samama has rooted the story in the rich cultural backdrop of desi upbringing in the Gulf; it feels like a love letter to a shared experience.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions—it made me happy, it made me cry, and it left me yearning for more. The writing is heartfelt and evocative, with a narrative that flows effortlessly, pulling you deeper into the lives of these lovely characters. By the end, I was left with a warm, fuzzy feeling and an eagerness to dive into part two and finding myself a MURAD😭❤️
If you’re looking for a story that celebrates love, friendship, and the beauty of cultural identity, *Anti-Romantic* is a must-read. Samama has poured her heart into this book, and it shows in every word. Bravo to the author for creating something so beautiful and genuine. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
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