What do you think?
Rate this book
The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye: Three women. Three secrets. Three broken lives.
Can we ever escape our past?When three women move to Portugal and are thrown together by happenstance, little do they know how dramatically their lives are about to change.Fatima Khan is a Pakistani writer with a gift for languages, a German husband, a ten-year-old daughter, and a determination to escape her mother’s clutches. Kate Miller is a driven, no-nonsense American diplomat who needs to get her way, even as her marriage flounders. Abena Nyator is a warm and kind-hearted Ghanaian entrepreneur consumed with self-doubt. Each of them looking for a fresh start. Each of them haunted by their past. Each of them burdened by horrendous secrets.A visit by Fatima’s mother threatens to derail her new life and forces her to face her demons. And when all-consuming guilt gets the better of Kate and Abena, each must make a momentous decision. Set against a sweeping international backdrop—Lisbon, Singapore, Karachi, Houston, Copenhagen, Berlin, Dubai, Brighton, and Accra—the three women are forced to confront an inconvenient the guilty can’t say goodbye.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2024
8 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 18, 2024
It’s not often I start a book and finish it on the very same day. But this story… this story was addictive. Every element of it spoke to me with the characters facing cultural conundrums through their dual identities and multiple homes, their struggles with living in Europe and the cleverly portrayed chaos of expat life.
Portuguese sun, a dramatic coastline, and the promise of a fresh start - The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye paints a seductive picture of Portugal as a haven for three women seeking refuge from their pasts. We meet Fatima, a South Asian Muslim with a dark family past, Kate, a diplomat haunted by a painful betrayal, and Abena, a seemingly perfect mother yearning for relief from guilt. Drawn together by circumstance in a charming Portuguese town, they form an unlikely bond.
The novel delves into the complexities of their individual stories, slowly unraveling the secrets they desperately try to keep buried. As they navigate the sun-drenched landscapes of Portugal, the past casts a long shadow, threatening to shatter the fragile peace they've constructed. The author skillfully weaves together their narratives, building suspense as their secrets begin to surface. But The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye is more than just a story about secrets. It's a celebration of female friendship, a testament to the power of shared vulnerability and the courage it takes to rebuild a life from scratch in a foreign land. Portugal itself becomes a character, its vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery providing a beautiful backdrop to their journey of self-discovery.
The characters, though burdened by their pasts, are relatable and mostly well-developed. While Fatima’s character was the most well developed, even with Abena, we could see her flaws and vulnerabilities, making them both all the more endearing. However, I felt short changed when it came to Kate. Her character seemed to be the most complex- despite her white privilege and high flying career- yet her departure from the story was abrupt and parts of her narrative seemed to have holes. I feel like she could feature in her own spin-off novel ;)
I loved that the book didn’t conform to traditional gender roles, with Kate’s partner being a stay at home dad and Abena and Fatima not playing the role of the traditional “trailing spouse”. This demonstrated the complexity and nuanced nature of mobile families.
While the plot unfolds at a leisurely pace, the author's evocative descriptions bring Portugal to life through the eyes of each character. You can almost feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and taste the salty tang of the ocean air. If you're looking for a captivating read that combines mystery, friendship, and a touch of escapism, The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye is a perfect choice. Just be prepared to linger in the pages long after you've finished the last chapter, yearning for your own Portuguese adventure.
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy of the book!
Portuguese sun, a dramatic coastline, and the promise of a fresh start - The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye paints a seductive picture of Portugal as a haven for three women seeking refuge from their pasts. We meet Fatima, a South Asian Muslim with a dark family past, Kate, a diplomat haunted by a painful betrayal, and Abena, a seemingly perfect mother yearning for relief from guilt. Drawn together by circumstance in a charming Portuguese town, they form an unlikely bond.
The novel delves into the complexities of their individual stories, slowly unraveling the secrets they desperately try to keep buried. As they navigate the sun-drenched landscapes of Portugal, the past casts a long shadow, threatening to shatter the fragile peace they've constructed. The author skillfully weaves together their narratives, building suspense as their secrets begin to surface. But The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye is more than just a story about secrets. It's a celebration of female friendship, a testament to the power of shared vulnerability and the courage it takes to rebuild a life from scratch in a foreign land. Portugal itself becomes a character, its vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery providing a beautiful backdrop to their journey of self-discovery.
The characters, though burdened by their pasts, are relatable and mostly well-developed. While Fatima’s character was the most well developed, even with Abena, we could see her flaws and vulnerabilities, making them both all the more endearing. However, I felt short changed when it came to Kate. Her character seemed to be the most complex- despite her white privilege and high flying career- yet her departure from the story was abrupt and parts of her narrative seemed to have holes. I feel like she could feature in her own spin-off novel ;)
I loved that the book didn’t conform to traditional gender roles, with Kate’s partner being a stay at home dad and Abena and Fatima not playing the role of the traditional “trailing spouse”. This demonstrated the complexity and nuanced nature of mobile families.
While the plot unfolds at a leisurely pace, the author's evocative descriptions bring Portugal to life through the eyes of each character. You can almost feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and taste the salty tang of the ocean air. If you're looking for a captivating read that combines mystery, friendship, and a touch of escapism, The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye is a perfect choice. Just be prepared to linger in the pages long after you've finished the last chapter, yearning for your own Portuguese adventure.
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy of the book!
June 1, 2024
Our past can sometimes act as a ticking time bomb. – my ten words 5-star review for those who are pressed for time.
And for everyone else:
Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore’s “The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye” is much more than just a bomb ready to explode. This charming debut novel, full of descriptive prose, transports the readers overseas, from the busy streets of Lisbon to the high-spirited cultures of Singapore, Accra, and beyond the horizon line. This international setting adds a fresh layer of colour, complexity, and depth, making the book greater than just a couple of expats’ journeys, their lives, their stories, and their legacies.
A good literary fiction narrative’s strength lies in its characters; the three main compelling roles: Fatima, Kate, and Abena – each and every one of them burdened by a heavy past – find themselves drawn into a world of secrets and second chances. While fate (‘fado’ in Portuguese) throws them together in Lisbon, they find bittersweet solace in a budding friendship. And very much like in the Lusitan old music genre, we can find depth and strong emotions in the novel: love, misfortune, guilt, nostalgia (‘saudade’ in Portuguese,) but also compassion, forgiveness, true merriment, and joy as parts of a balanced life. Mrs Ottimofiore crafts relatable and unique women, all embarked on a personal journey of self-(re)discovery, each with distinct personalities and secrets threatening to shatter their newfound peace. The three stories are coherent and convincingly describe the expatriates’ lives – sometimes dealing with the difficulties of moving with children, trying to cope with understanding new cultures and learning new languages, fighting depression and loneliness. Fatima, Kate, and Abena are thirds of Mariam, an amalgamation of Mariam and many women Mariam had met and known so far during her global life.
A book about secrets, guilt, stress, negative emotions, and anxiety – the inner demons we, modern people, face and fight daily. And if you don’t believe me, read the author’s very words:
“(...) it takes guts to face your deepest, darkest demons. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that your problems don’t go away when you move countries.”
A book about demons, but also about closure, acceptance, and reconciliation with the past. I stop here because I don’t want to spoil the pleasure of reading for the many of you who will enjoy it. Just one more thing that captured my attention: the book brilliantly ends with three multicultural dinner recipes (Butternut Squash Risotto, Jollof Rice with Ghanaian Shito Sauce, and Chicken Biryani,) all of them featuring a common ingredient, the rice, and shared by three of the characters. Then, it comes up with a useful list of a dozen open-ended Book Club Discussion Questions.
A few words about the author:
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore is much more than a successful multilingual writer, published author, journalist, conference speaker, researcher, economist, and a passionate bringer of cross-cultural people’s ideas and stories to life, who formerly worked and lived in ten countries of four continents. She is the happy mother of three children born in three different countries, currently living in Cascais, Portugal, with her half-German, half-Italian husband, and enjoying the sunny weather along with her passion for writing. An ‘expat since birth,’ with strong beliefs grounded in her life experiences. I found this insight in Mariam’s book’s dedication:
“For those who are brave enough to move – because home is a story that comes with you., not a place to leave behind.”
All in all, I’d classify this debut novel under the expat-autobiographical-fiction category. With its inspired and clear-cut subtitle: “Three women. Three secrets. Three broken lives,” the book tells a real story about the real daily family life, and tries to answer a fundamental question: Can we ever escape our past?
Five stars usually mean perfection, no faults, and excellence. I would have given it 6 stars if I could.
And for everyone else:
Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore’s “The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye” is much more than just a bomb ready to explode. This charming debut novel, full of descriptive prose, transports the readers overseas, from the busy streets of Lisbon to the high-spirited cultures of Singapore, Accra, and beyond the horizon line. This international setting adds a fresh layer of colour, complexity, and depth, making the book greater than just a couple of expats’ journeys, their lives, their stories, and their legacies.
A good literary fiction narrative’s strength lies in its characters; the three main compelling roles: Fatima, Kate, and Abena – each and every one of them burdened by a heavy past – find themselves drawn into a world of secrets and second chances. While fate (‘fado’ in Portuguese) throws them together in Lisbon, they find bittersweet solace in a budding friendship. And very much like in the Lusitan old music genre, we can find depth and strong emotions in the novel: love, misfortune, guilt, nostalgia (‘saudade’ in Portuguese,) but also compassion, forgiveness, true merriment, and joy as parts of a balanced life. Mrs Ottimofiore crafts relatable and unique women, all embarked on a personal journey of self-(re)discovery, each with distinct personalities and secrets threatening to shatter their newfound peace. The three stories are coherent and convincingly describe the expatriates’ lives – sometimes dealing with the difficulties of moving with children, trying to cope with understanding new cultures and learning new languages, fighting depression and loneliness. Fatima, Kate, and Abena are thirds of Mariam, an amalgamation of Mariam and many women Mariam had met and known so far during her global life.
A book about secrets, guilt, stress, negative emotions, and anxiety – the inner demons we, modern people, face and fight daily. And if you don’t believe me, read the author’s very words:
“(...) it takes guts to face your deepest, darkest demons. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that your problems don’t go away when you move countries.”
A book about demons, but also about closure, acceptance, and reconciliation with the past. I stop here because I don’t want to spoil the pleasure of reading for the many of you who will enjoy it. Just one more thing that captured my attention: the book brilliantly ends with three multicultural dinner recipes (Butternut Squash Risotto, Jollof Rice with Ghanaian Shito Sauce, and Chicken Biryani,) all of them featuring a common ingredient, the rice, and shared by three of the characters. Then, it comes up with a useful list of a dozen open-ended Book Club Discussion Questions.
A few words about the author:
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore is much more than a successful multilingual writer, published author, journalist, conference speaker, researcher, economist, and a passionate bringer of cross-cultural people’s ideas and stories to life, who formerly worked and lived in ten countries of four continents. She is the happy mother of three children born in three different countries, currently living in Cascais, Portugal, with her half-German, half-Italian husband, and enjoying the sunny weather along with her passion for writing. An ‘expat since birth,’ with strong beliefs grounded in her life experiences. I found this insight in Mariam’s book’s dedication:
“For those who are brave enough to move – because home is a story that comes with you., not a place to leave behind.”
All in all, I’d classify this debut novel under the expat-autobiographical-fiction category. With its inspired and clear-cut subtitle: “Three women. Three secrets. Three broken lives,” the book tells a real story about the real daily family life, and tries to answer a fundamental question: Can we ever escape our past?
Five stars usually mean perfection, no faults, and excellence. I would have given it 6 stars if I could.
April 15, 2024
A gripping interwoven story of three women living as ex-pats near Lisbon.
Fatima is Pakistani with a German husband, and has become a child of the world, having lived in Denmark and Dubai, and speaking several languages. Abena is an entrepreneur. She and her husband come from Ghana, by way of London. Kate is American, and a foreign service worker at the Embassy. She’s concerned that she needs to keep a spotless record or lose her job.
When Kate rams into Fatima’s car on all their kids’ first day at international school, it sparks a new friendship between the three women. They all need friends in an unfamiliar country. They share challenges and language lessons as they work to integrate into a new culture. But they’re also not telling each other, or their spouses, everything about their pasts.
Fans of Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty will appreciate the intersection of three women’s stories, and how each of them is keeping secrets. Each woman needs to learn that no matter how far you travel, you can’t outrun your own history. And those secrets, if not dealt with, will poison their closest relationships.
When one woman acknowledges her past shame, others find the bravery to confront their own.
The Guilty Can't say Goodbye, is a testament to the author's deep expat experiences and genuine curiosity about diverse cultures.
I’ve read expat books where the characters seem distant from the country they are in, as if not truly trying to integrate and understand the local culture. This novel sensitively delves into the challenges and intricacies of expat life. From Fatima’s multi-lingual love of languages, and yet the difficulty of learning Portuguese, to Abena’s longing for Ghana, a home to which she feels she never return. Several moments dive into the unique responsibilities of raising third culture kids.
As a global nomad myself, I found this novel to capture authentically capture the challenges and joy of expat life.
Mariam N. Ottimofiore has written a thoughtful, gripping story that builds to a dramatic and satisfying ending. A rapid-paced novel, steeped in the adventure and realities of expat life, that addresses how we all pine for belonging and the destructive nature of keeping secrets.
The Guilty Can’t say Goodbye teaches that it’s only when we stop stifling our shame that we can truly embrace the opportunity for a joyful, authentic, multicultural life.
Fatima is Pakistani with a German husband, and has become a child of the world, having lived in Denmark and Dubai, and speaking several languages. Abena is an entrepreneur. She and her husband come from Ghana, by way of London. Kate is American, and a foreign service worker at the Embassy. She’s concerned that she needs to keep a spotless record or lose her job.
When Kate rams into Fatima’s car on all their kids’ first day at international school, it sparks a new friendship between the three women. They all need friends in an unfamiliar country. They share challenges and language lessons as they work to integrate into a new culture. But they’re also not telling each other, or their spouses, everything about their pasts.
Fans of Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty will appreciate the intersection of three women’s stories, and how each of them is keeping secrets. Each woman needs to learn that no matter how far you travel, you can’t outrun your own history. And those secrets, if not dealt with, will poison their closest relationships.
When one woman acknowledges her past shame, others find the bravery to confront their own.
The Guilty Can't say Goodbye, is a testament to the author's deep expat experiences and genuine curiosity about diverse cultures.
I’ve read expat books where the characters seem distant from the country they are in, as if not truly trying to integrate and understand the local culture. This novel sensitively delves into the challenges and intricacies of expat life. From Fatima’s multi-lingual love of languages, and yet the difficulty of learning Portuguese, to Abena’s longing for Ghana, a home to which she feels she never return. Several moments dive into the unique responsibilities of raising third culture kids.
As a global nomad myself, I found this novel to capture authentically capture the challenges and joy of expat life.
Mariam N. Ottimofiore has written a thoughtful, gripping story that builds to a dramatic and satisfying ending. A rapid-paced novel, steeped in the adventure and realities of expat life, that addresses how we all pine for belonging and the destructive nature of keeping secrets.
The Guilty Can’t say Goodbye teaches that it’s only when we stop stifling our shame that we can truly embrace the opportunity for a joyful, authentic, multicultural life.
January 12, 2025
As someone who has experienced life as an expat in four different countries, this book resonated with me on a profound level. From the very first chapter, I was completely captivated by the story, which masterfully weaves together diverse characters and their journeys. Mariam’s storytelling is nothing short of enchanting—it’s immersive, layered, and deeply introspective.
The author’s ability to craft such intricate character backgrounds and bring to life their emotional struggles was nothing less than brilliant. The themes of identity, belonging, and the cyclical patterns that often hold us back felt raw and authentic. I found myself enthralled by the way Mariam peeled back the layers of her characters, making their internal worlds as vivid as the cities they inhabited.
The way Lisbon and Cascais were described was stunning—so vivid that I could almost feel the cobblestone streets beneath my feet and hear the whispers of the ocean. As an expat, I related so deeply to the portrayal of the internal tug-of-war that comes with adapting to a new culture, navigating unfamiliar languages, and forming connections in a world that feels both excitingly new and dauntingly different. These moments of struggle and triumph were captured with such authenticity that I felt as though Mariam had peeked into my own memories.
Fatima, in particular, was my favorite character. Her resilience, vulnerability, and nuanced perspective made her feel like a real person—someone I would have loved to sit with over a coffee, sharing stories of life and adaptation.
The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye: Three women. Three secrets. Three broken lives.Kudos to Mariam for crafting such a beautiful, moving narrative! Your talent for capturing the intricacies of human emotion and the expat experience is unmatched. I’m already eagerly awaiting your next book—please keep sharing your incredible stories with the world. Your voice is powerful and necessary, and I’m sure it will continue to touch countless readers as it did me. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!
The author’s ability to craft such intricate character backgrounds and bring to life their emotional struggles was nothing less than brilliant. The themes of identity, belonging, and the cyclical patterns that often hold us back felt raw and authentic. I found myself enthralled by the way Mariam peeled back the layers of her characters, making their internal worlds as vivid as the cities they inhabited.
The way Lisbon and Cascais were described was stunning—so vivid that I could almost feel the cobblestone streets beneath my feet and hear the whispers of the ocean. As an expat, I related so deeply to the portrayal of the internal tug-of-war that comes with adapting to a new culture, navigating unfamiliar languages, and forming connections in a world that feels both excitingly new and dauntingly different. These moments of struggle and triumph were captured with such authenticity that I felt as though Mariam had peeked into my own memories.
Fatima, in particular, was my favorite character. Her resilience, vulnerability, and nuanced perspective made her feel like a real person—someone I would have loved to sit with over a coffee, sharing stories of life and adaptation.
The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye: Three women. Three secrets. Three broken lives.Kudos to Mariam for crafting such a beautiful, moving narrative! Your talent for capturing the intricacies of human emotion and the expat experience is unmatched. I’m already eagerly awaiting your next book—please keep sharing your incredible stories with the world. Your voice is powerful and necessary, and I’m sure it will continue to touch countless readers as it did me. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!
April 25, 2024
The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye is a wonderfully original story about the lives, secrets and friendship of 3 very different expat women, Fatima, Abena and Kate, thrown together through the connection of their children’s school.
The timeframe of the story takes place over a school year which is a nice touch – I think all expats with children can relate to this. While the children are at school the 3 women learn Portuguese and through their language lessons Mariam cleverly teaches us, the reader, about Portugal’s history and culture. I certainly learned a great deal about this country that Mariam clearly loves so much.
Coming from a diplomatic background myself and having moved country every few years throughout my childhood and twenties I could totally relate to the characters and their sense of saudade, the beautiful Portuguese word meaning a melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing. Mariam captures it perfectly when she writes “(saudade) is so much more intense than homesickness. It’s about leaving a home that ceases to know your name, that somehow continues on in your absence, while you struggle to move on in its absence. It almost feels like a case of unrequited love, but with a place instead of a person”. This has been the backdrop to most of my life but I’ve rarely found characters in fiction who experience it. It’s great to feel seen!
This book is a great read for anyone who’s moved abroad, or is curious about moving abroad, or indeed anyone with an interest in different cultures. It authentically portrays multicultural expat life in a well-paced journey, with enough plot twists to keep you eagerly turning those pages and rooting for Fatima, Abena and Kate.
I was delighted to receive an advance reader copy of this book and will be buying a hard copy to keep forever. Thank you Mariam.
The timeframe of the story takes place over a school year which is a nice touch – I think all expats with children can relate to this. While the children are at school the 3 women learn Portuguese and through their language lessons Mariam cleverly teaches us, the reader, about Portugal’s history and culture. I certainly learned a great deal about this country that Mariam clearly loves so much.
Coming from a diplomatic background myself and having moved country every few years throughout my childhood and twenties I could totally relate to the characters and their sense of saudade, the beautiful Portuguese word meaning a melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing. Mariam captures it perfectly when she writes “(saudade) is so much more intense than homesickness. It’s about leaving a home that ceases to know your name, that somehow continues on in your absence, while you struggle to move on in its absence. It almost feels like a case of unrequited love, but with a place instead of a person”. This has been the backdrop to most of my life but I’ve rarely found characters in fiction who experience it. It’s great to feel seen!
This book is a great read for anyone who’s moved abroad, or is curious about moving abroad, or indeed anyone with an interest in different cultures. It authentically portrays multicultural expat life in a well-paced journey, with enough plot twists to keep you eagerly turning those pages and rooting for Fatima, Abena and Kate.
I was delighted to receive an advance reader copy of this book and will be buying a hard copy to keep forever. Thank you Mariam.
May 8, 2024
As someone who’s been living in the US for such a long time instead of my country of origin (or country of passport as the author refers to it as), wasn’t even born or raised there, haven’t been visiting frequently, the last two times I went was after a 20 yr gap, for less than a week each time, the book resonates on so many levels!!
I feel the book has helped me identify my own cultural identity crisis (not Pakistani enough, not Muslim enough, constant culture shaming, language shaming from within the community), I find it very therapeutic and actually think I should see a therapist now, sort my own cultural identity issues out.
I’ve gone through phases of guilt (especially when my kids were younger)to yearning to go back to just not caring anymore because I feel so detached now.
We all develop a hybrid identity and become sort of ethno-religious when we’re exposed to different countries, cultures, religions, nationalities. Everyone around you becomes family and home becomes wherever you go.
Love the opening quote, “For those who are brave enough to move-because home is a story that comes with you, not a place you leave behind.”
Love how Mariam’s expat background, travel experiences, her cross cultural marriage, the food, the culture, the people from various backgrounds she’s met, everything comes together so nicely through her writing with such a natural flow. And she has described her characters really well, all three from completely different backgrounds!
A book everyone can enjoy and relate to , not just expats and travelers. A very well written book!!
I feel the book has helped me identify my own cultural identity crisis (not Pakistani enough, not Muslim enough, constant culture shaming, language shaming from within the community), I find it very therapeutic and actually think I should see a therapist now, sort my own cultural identity issues out.
I’ve gone through phases of guilt (especially when my kids were younger)to yearning to go back to just not caring anymore because I feel so detached now.
We all develop a hybrid identity and become sort of ethno-religious when we’re exposed to different countries, cultures, religions, nationalities. Everyone around you becomes family and home becomes wherever you go.
Love the opening quote, “For those who are brave enough to move-because home is a story that comes with you, not a place you leave behind.”
Love how Mariam’s expat background, travel experiences, her cross cultural marriage, the food, the culture, the people from various backgrounds she’s met, everything comes together so nicely through her writing with such a natural flow. And she has described her characters really well, all three from completely different backgrounds!
A book everyone can enjoy and relate to , not just expats and travelers. A very well written book!!
March 13, 2025
Last summer I devoured this book while on a trip that, coincidentally, covered several of the countries mentioned in this beautifully written novel. Mariam, the author, takes us on such a journey across cultures, balancing different values, holding very contradictory emotions as she slowly reveals the secrets of Fatima, Abena, and Kate. With every chapter I wanted to find out more about the hidden truths and the reasons why; it was quite addictive! Each character comes in with a complicated past, much like people carry baggage in real life, and have their own demons that they try to tame.
Through the intricate stories the reader is exposed to so many elements of cross-cultural life: from balancing an interfaith and intercultural relationship, to the guilt you may feel when you leave your 'home' country (and the difficult decisions that may come with that), to keeping your culture alive for your children to learn through you, to facing taboos, and navigating differing and sometimes juxtaposing values. The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye is a 'show don't tell' example of cross-cultural living with it's many challenges, privileges, and sacrifices.
At the end of the novel, there are detailed recipes that the main characters cook throughout the book. I think this is such a beautiful way to bring to life and share the cultures of explored in this novel. I hope there will be a Part II of The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye!
Through the intricate stories the reader is exposed to so many elements of cross-cultural life: from balancing an interfaith and intercultural relationship, to the guilt you may feel when you leave your 'home' country (and the difficult decisions that may come with that), to keeping your culture alive for your children to learn through you, to facing taboos, and navigating differing and sometimes juxtaposing values. The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye is a 'show don't tell' example of cross-cultural living with it's many challenges, privileges, and sacrifices.
At the end of the novel, there are detailed recipes that the main characters cook throughout the book. I think this is such a beautiful way to bring to life and share the cultures of explored in this novel. I hope there will be a Part II of The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye!
April 28, 2024
As a life-long expat, “The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye” really struck a chord with me. We are a fluid community that continually has to make new friends from all across the world and shape our own communities on the fly. This book is about that--partly.
Mariam’s book reflects this by thrusting together three women from vastly different backgrounds who gather around their kids’ school and Portuguese lessons. As the book cover suggests, they have one thing in common: dark secrets. All in all, a great premise for a book.
The world-building incorporates intimate details from an author who has been there and knows all the smells and tastes of these places. The book is remarkably ambitious, reaching back almost thirty years, from Portugal to Bangladesh and Ghana and Singapore and Texas and Brighton and Dubai. (Leaves you dizzy at times.)
There are important themes. The unbreakable ties of family. The challenges of marriage and parenthood. Trying to keep your kids connected with their home countries and language and integrate to the new ones at the same time. The challenges of racism and… and several things I cannot mention here!
But it’s also a great story with surprising twists that keeps the pages turning. The big reveals at the end pack a punch.
I am the recipient of an advanced reader copy of the book and can’t wait to buy a hard copy.
Mariam’s book reflects this by thrusting together three women from vastly different backgrounds who gather around their kids’ school and Portuguese lessons. As the book cover suggests, they have one thing in common: dark secrets. All in all, a great premise for a book.
The world-building incorporates intimate details from an author who has been there and knows all the smells and tastes of these places. The book is remarkably ambitious, reaching back almost thirty years, from Portugal to Bangladesh and Ghana and Singapore and Texas and Brighton and Dubai. (Leaves you dizzy at times.)
There are important themes. The unbreakable ties of family. The challenges of marriage and parenthood. Trying to keep your kids connected with their home countries and language and integrate to the new ones at the same time. The challenges of racism and… and several things I cannot mention here!
But it’s also a great story with surprising twists that keeps the pages turning. The big reveals at the end pack a punch.
I am the recipient of an advanced reader copy of the book and can’t wait to buy a hard copy.
December 3, 2024
I really love reading first novels because there's something so magical about seeing an author's mind come to life in such a creative way for the first time--I mean, can you imagine writing an intertwined, plot-driven mystery about multiple characters and countries that somehow manages to hold it all together with grounded scenes and shocking discoveries that keep your reader absorbed and entertained? It's an undertaking that many don't manage to do effectively, and it takes aplomb and smarts. Mariam Ottimofiore does just that. She manages to artfully tie together her own lifetime of travels into a novel about friendship, trauma, and journeys of self-discovery. This book is an adventure from beginning to end. I admit I didn't know what it was going to be about based on its title. I thought it was going to be about how difficult it is to say goodbye to one's country or one's friends, or even one's new residence. But the title is about an entirely different premise, one that's mysterious and full of shocking revelations. And it's not just for travelers, because while it *does* perfectly capture the lost feeling of being an expat in a new world, it also delivers an emotionally moving story AND a mystery that unravels and twists and turns. Definitely a cover-to-cover read that is a must for you and your traveling friends, literary friends, and mystery aficionados.
April 19, 2024
‘The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye’ is an immersive story of three diverse women navigating the challenges of life in a new country. Right from the start, the novel drew me in with its vivid portrait of Portugal, and intrigued me with the secrets the characters had brought in their baggage, from previous lives in Singapore, Dubai, Pakistan, Ghana, and the UK.
What I love most is that Ottimofiore has crafted a nuanced and interwoven portrait of living abroad from diverse perspectives – showing how not everyone experiences the same challenges and opportunities. If you thought ‘Expats’ on TV only scratched a glamorous surface of life abroad, this book is definitely for you, with its much deeper and more layered look at what happens when cultures come together.
I also enjoyed the way the story is structured around an international-school year – from new arrivals in September, through making new friends and cross-cultural celebrations, to the inevitable goodbyes the following summer. It made the journey with these characters all the more relatable.
If you enjoy the character dynamics of Liane Moriarty, and a touch of Claire Mackintosh-esque suspense, ‘The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye’ is definitely worth a read!
With thanks to the author for an advance copy of the book.
What I love most is that Ottimofiore has crafted a nuanced and interwoven portrait of living abroad from diverse perspectives – showing how not everyone experiences the same challenges and opportunities. If you thought ‘Expats’ on TV only scratched a glamorous surface of life abroad, this book is definitely for you, with its much deeper and more layered look at what happens when cultures come together.
I also enjoyed the way the story is structured around an international-school year – from new arrivals in September, through making new friends and cross-cultural celebrations, to the inevitable goodbyes the following summer. It made the journey with these characters all the more relatable.
If you enjoy the character dynamics of Liane Moriarty, and a touch of Claire Mackintosh-esque suspense, ‘The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye’ is definitely worth a read!
With thanks to the author for an advance copy of the book.
April 23, 2024
I cannot love this enough! I found myself hooked from the first chapter, and I'm not sure if it was because her writing just flows, or it was the characters I resonated with as an expat myself, or the fact that I live in Cascais too!
i loved reading the street names I know, the nuances about Portugal and being an expat, and the characteristics I could see in each woman, similar to women I have met along the way here too.
She captivated me with her words, so rich in texture and oozing the culture that is Portugal.
I didn't know what to expect going into this book, but being a huge fan of Mariam as a person, and through her first book, I was over the moon to delve into this new book. Let me tell you, I was not expecting so many twists and turns, I found myself trying to guess each person's history as there was a hint at their fears!
This book is perfect for any woman who has eyes and likes reading! Kidding, but not really. You will love this book if you have ever felt alone, lonely, out of place, judged, wondering where you fit in, trying to make new friends. Basically all of us!
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to buy a hard copy to keep!
i loved reading the street names I know, the nuances about Portugal and being an expat, and the characteristics I could see in each woman, similar to women I have met along the way here too.
She captivated me with her words, so rich in texture and oozing the culture that is Portugal.
I didn't know what to expect going into this book, but being a huge fan of Mariam as a person, and through her first book, I was over the moon to delve into this new book. Let me tell you, I was not expecting so many twists and turns, I found myself trying to guess each person's history as there was a hint at their fears!
This book is perfect for any woman who has eyes and likes reading! Kidding, but not really. You will love this book if you have ever felt alone, lonely, out of place, judged, wondering where you fit in, trying to make new friends. Basically all of us!
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to buy a hard copy to keep!
April 26, 2024
The Guilty Can't Say Good-bye delves into the lives of three women who are newly arrived in Portugal. As a reader, I found myself deeply identifying with the main characters' struggles and complexities. The author captures the nuances of expatriate life, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the search for connection while living abroad.
Mariam Ottimofiore is masterful at creating suspense. From the opening pages, I was drawn into a world of secrets and was hooked!. Each chapter reveals bits and clues, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
The characters are richly drawn and multi-dimensional, each with their compelling storylines and motivations. The novel's setting in Lisbon and Cascais, Portugal, is shown with engaging detail and authenticity. The author paints a vivid portrait of the vibrancy of these cities: the cafés, the streets, the sea views.
Overall, "The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye" is a captivating read that offers both insight into the expat experience and an exhilarating journey of suspense. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking and suspenseful literary escape.
I was very grateful to have received an advance reader copy of the book.
August 2, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it
I think you captured well all the ebbs and flows, ups and downs of expat life
The challenge of answering the question where are you from?
Love Love Love the way it was posed by the teacher in the book - where are you from or where did you move from?
Oh my goodness, allowing people represent whichever country they most identify with at international day celebrations - Brilliant!!!
How very much like the chameleon expatriates are - seeing each move as a new fresh blank slate… but the past always finds a way right 😊
Loved seeing Portugal through the pages and thank you showing us the end of Europe in your IG pictures so it was easy for me to visualise that scene in my mind’s eye
The way you went from past to present was great 👍🏽 not confusing; they fit well within the story.
So many things to write 😂
It’s a great story
I thoroughly enjoyed it
I am sure I would read it again
No pressure 😉
But looking forward to your next book/novel.
I think you captured well all the ebbs and flows, ups and downs of expat life
The challenge of answering the question where are you from?
Love Love Love the way it was posed by the teacher in the book - where are you from or where did you move from?
Oh my goodness, allowing people represent whichever country they most identify with at international day celebrations - Brilliant!!!
How very much like the chameleon expatriates are - seeing each move as a new fresh blank slate… but the past always finds a way right 😊
Loved seeing Portugal through the pages and thank you showing us the end of Europe in your IG pictures so it was easy for me to visualise that scene in my mind’s eye
The way you went from past to present was great 👍🏽 not confusing; they fit well within the story.
So many things to write 😂
It’s a great story
I thoroughly enjoyed it
I am sure I would read it again
No pressure 😉
But looking forward to your next book/novel.
April 24, 2024
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing backdrop of Cascais with Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore’s debut fiction novel, a compelling exploration of the complex lives of expatriates.
This book transports readers on an unforgettable journey, unveiling the rich tapestry of emotions and secrets hidden beneath the surface of its characters’ outwardly exciting yet challenging lives.
Mariam masterfully constructs her narrative around a trio of dynamic, multicultural women, each striving to overcome their pasts amidst the daily trials of expat living. The story spans a school year, while strategic flashbacks weave decades of hidden guilt and secrets into a suspenseful crescendo that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Perfect for expatriates or anyone who revels in dramas that artfully blend suspense with the stark realities of life. This novel is a must-add to your summer reading list.
A heartfelt thanks to the author for providing an advance reader copy of this captivating book.
This book transports readers on an unforgettable journey, unveiling the rich tapestry of emotions and secrets hidden beneath the surface of its characters’ outwardly exciting yet challenging lives.
Mariam masterfully constructs her narrative around a trio of dynamic, multicultural women, each striving to overcome their pasts amidst the daily trials of expat living. The story spans a school year, while strategic flashbacks weave decades of hidden guilt and secrets into a suspenseful crescendo that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Perfect for expatriates or anyone who revels in dramas that artfully blend suspense with the stark realities of life. This novel is a must-add to your summer reading list.
A heartfelt thanks to the author for providing an advance reader copy of this captivating book.
February 10, 2025
I absolutely loved The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye by Mariam Navaid Ottimofiore! It was such a refreshing read, and I couldn't put it down. The story flowed beautifully, and I found myself wanting to know what happened next with every chapter. As a girl who has lived in five different countries, including my home country, I found so much to relate to in the characters' experiences, both as children and adults. Mariam did a wonderful job of bringing each location to life, from the food to the culture – it even brought back fond memories of my time in Ghana and my visits to Singapore. Portugal is now definitely on my list! The "secrets" of the three women weren't just secrets; they felt like the unspoken lives of so many women, stories either faced or hidden. Mariam's writing made each woman's story feel so real and impactful.
I feel happy for Fatima, sad and worried for Kate, and confused about Abena. I'm trying not to give away too much, but this book is definitely worth reading.
I feel happy for Fatima, sad and worried for Kate, and confused about Abena. I'm trying not to give away too much, but this book is definitely worth reading.
November 20, 2025
I love books with various stories and timelines intertwined, and this one did not disappoint! The three main characters were so well written they all felt relatable - of course, being an expat myself adds another level of connection, but the way the author weaves together the various components will draw in all kinds of readers, regardless of their background. I was captivated and mystified from the start, and also found myself falling in love with Portugal. The author weaves a pacy, gripping narrative into the streets of Lisbon, bringing the city to life so that it’s more than just a background for its very diverse and multifaceted heroines
I’ve loved Mariam’s first, more autobiographical book, and thoroughly enjoyed this new direction - so relatable and interesting to see the ups and downs of expat life expressed in a story. Also adored the recipes provided at the end…. What a nice touch!
I’ve loved Mariam’s first, more autobiographical book, and thoroughly enjoyed this new direction - so relatable and interesting to see the ups and downs of expat life expressed in a story. Also adored the recipes provided at the end…. What a nice touch!
April 19, 2024
This book touches so many different parts of culture and life abroad, while keeping you on your toes and turning the page after every chapter! I often found myself saying, “just one more chapter” because I was so curious about what I would read next. I absolutely love the detail and thought that was put into each of the characters and their individual stories.
I chuckled to myself often as I read through this book and found myself relating to so many situations (as an immigrant from the US to Portugal) that the characters went through. I felt many emotions…..joy and happiness, intrigue, sadness/saudade and empathy. This book was such a great mix of heartwarming and relatable stories, drama and honesty.
I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be an advanced reader and I hope many others will grab a copy of this book and enjoy it as much as I did!
I chuckled to myself often as I read through this book and found myself relating to so many situations (as an immigrant from the US to Portugal) that the characters went through. I felt many emotions…..joy and happiness, intrigue, sadness/saudade and empathy. This book was such a great mix of heartwarming and relatable stories, drama and honesty.
I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be an advanced reader and I hope many others will grab a copy of this book and enjoy it as much as I did!
November 15, 2024
As a serial expat and parent, I found "The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye" to be a truly captivating read that resonated deeply with me. The experiences of Fatima, Abena, and Kate felt incredibly relatable as they navigated life in Portugal while reflecting on their pasts in various countries. The author masterfully intertwines each character's history with their present, revealing their mysterious pasts with vivid clarity. This gradual unveiling allows us to witness how their histories shape their current realities. What truly moved me was the courage portrayed by Abena and Fatima as they confront their turbulent pasts, learning that while the past is a part of them, it doesn't define who they are today. This book is one that pulls you in and leaves you with a sense of fulfilment, a testament to its profound impact.
July 11, 2025
This book was the perfect start to my summer holiday reading! I was quickly immersed in the world of the characters eager to find out their secrets. I must genuinely say that I could never have predicted what was creeping behind the scenes in each character's past. Living in Portugal myself, I felt the author did a wonderful job situating us in the local as well as the nuances of expat life. This is the perfect read for those that enjoy fiction and also care about third culture families, multicultural experiences, and the challenges of being an expat. It's a unique combination we so rarely see.
April 17, 2024
This was a fantastic book for culture-lovers and people who either have experienced immigrant/expat life or who are interested in what it feels like. I also think anyone could enjoy the plot twists and turns, and character development even if you don't find yourselves in those categories. The storylines of the characters intertwined in such an interesting way and made me want to stay up late to find out what happens.
For me as a mom who has lived all over, I found the inner worlds of the characters so relatable and also much of the day-to-day circumstances and emotions. If you like fiction with great character development and have ever wondered what it is like to move abroad, this book is definitely for you.
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy of the book.
For me as a mom who has lived all over, I found the inner worlds of the characters so relatable and also much of the day-to-day circumstances and emotions. If you like fiction with great character development and have ever wondered what it is like to move abroad, this book is definitely for you.
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy of the book.
April 17, 2024
I loved it! A breakneck adventure with twists until the end. Perfect summer read with delightful characters including Portugal itself! I read it in one sitting on a plane to Lisbon no less.
As a TCK and now an adult who has relocated with my family I’ve never felt so SEEN in a book. It perfectly captures the nuance, loss and joy of a “messy mobile life” and how home is where the heart is, not the hearth. I predict it will be a hit summer read of 2024 and I’m grateful to the author for an advance reader copy!
As a TCK and now an adult who has relocated with my family I’ve never felt so SEEN in a book. It perfectly captures the nuance, loss and joy of a “messy mobile life” and how home is where the heart is, not the hearth. I predict it will be a hit summer read of 2024 and I’m grateful to the author for an advance reader copy!
April 20, 2024
I got to read an advance copy of this enticing story and it was so worth it! Three women from different backgrounds find themselves in Lisbon, Portugal and have to navigate cultural misunderstandings, personal challenges and secrets from the past. You find yourself rooting for each one of them, all while falling in love with the city of Lisbon. Mariam takes you on a journey to so many wonderful places and relationships that you just keep on turning the page. A great read for everyone who can relate to the multicultural lifestyle!
April 26, 2024
I was so lucky to be selected as an advanced reader of Guilty and wow, what a book! The story and the characters are so well portrayed and developed through the book that it left me asking for more, I’d love a sequel to know what the lives of these three expats women look like right now!
Being an expat myself and living in Portugal too where story is taking place, held a special significance for me throughout the whole book if you are looking for your next summer read, look no further, Guilty is the perfect mix of drama, adult relationships and world traveling.
Being an expat myself and living in Portugal too where story is taking place, held a special significance for me throughout the whole book if you are looking for your next summer read, look no further, Guilty is the perfect mix of drama, adult relationships and world traveling.
March 31, 2025
A great read about three women, from three continents and very different cultures, coming to live in Portugal. The book is riveting, well written and you do not have to be an expat to enjoy the plot. The book raises issues not just about expatriation but also about family secrets, communication between family members, mariage and children's education. It would be a great book for a book club as it raises many issues, is non judgmental but makes you think about ethical and moral values in various societies. Very timely!
April 21, 2024
The read of the summer! Mariam brings her characters to life in the most beautiful way. You can’t help but be transported to Portugal to follow along with the three women in the story. It’s a peek into the lives that some of us dream of having, moving abroad, starting new, leaving the old behind but you can’t really ever leave your past behind can you. At least that’s what you find out in this wonderfully written story. Add this to your TBR list now!
April 30, 2024
An excellent portrayal of expat life.
The three POV characters, while all expats in Portugal, all came from different backgrounds, some more "privileged" than others. I appreciated the honest depiction of how racism shows itself even in progressive, multicultural environments. The story centered on their friendship, while each hid a secret from her past. The author dealt sensitively with difficult issues, and how unresolved trauma can impact a person's choices decades later.
The three POV characters, while all expats in Portugal, all came from different backgrounds, some more "privileged" than others. I appreciated the honest depiction of how racism shows itself even in progressive, multicultural environments. The story centered on their friendship, while each hid a secret from her past. The author dealt sensitively with difficult issues, and how unresolved trauma can impact a person's choices decades later.
May 5, 2024
This book touched me personally, I found myself rewriting some of the quotes mentioned in the novel on my journal.
I enjoyed it so much and I resonated with many parts of it
I laughed and cried at the same time, felt the joy, the feeling of liberation away from our own cultures while nostalgia still creeps to our hearts sometimes 😍.
One of the quotes in the book that sparked deep identity sensation in me was in chapter 3: “Belonging to one place meant unbelonging to another “ !
I enjoyed it so much and I resonated with many parts of it
I laughed and cried at the same time, felt the joy, the feeling of liberation away from our own cultures while nostalgia still creeps to our hearts sometimes 😍.
One of the quotes in the book that sparked deep identity sensation in me was in chapter 3: “Belonging to one place meant unbelonging to another “ !
June 12, 2024
"The Guilty Can't Say Goodbye" is a captivating story about three expat women who move to Cascais, Portugal. The book beautifully captures their experiences, from the initial challenges to the joy of finding new friendships. Living in Cascais myself, I found the setting and their journeys incredibly relatable and heartfelt. It’s a touching read that perfectly mirrors the ups and downs of expat life.
March 13, 2025
The author tells an interesting and multilayered story about the overlapping lives of three expat women. If you are an expat yourself you will find yourself in this book; if you are not an expat, you will enjoy the armchair travel and learning more about what it is like to live between cultures. But that is just an "extra" benefit to reading this book. The main interest is that its a really good story!
July 2, 2025
Set in the charming coastal town of Cascais, Portugal, The Guilty Can’t Say Goodbye follows three expat women—Fatima, Abena, and Kate—new friends, each grappling with a hidden past.
As their secrets unravel, the novel becomes a fast paced exploration of guilt, identity, friendship and family dynamics.
As an immigrant, I enjoyed Ottimofiore’s nuanced portrayal of the expat experience. A colorfully descriptive and thought provoking read.
As their secrets unravel, the novel becomes a fast paced exploration of guilt, identity, friendship and family dynamics.
As an immigrant, I enjoyed Ottimofiore’s nuanced portrayal of the expat experience. A colorfully descriptive and thought provoking read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews