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If Only You Remember
Sofea, a headstrong independent librarian, the 'Nanny McPhee' of the library world.
Shafique, a serious antiquarian of books with a painful past.
Their love for books led them to unintentionally stumble upon each other, over and over again. Nothing is coincidental; everything is decreed.
This is not just a love story.
This is a story of preserverance, hope and faith. Of happiness that comes unexpectedly. Of sorrow that tests even the strongest.
Leaving is hard but at times, staying is even harder to do.
Can Sofea and Shafique find their way through their struggles and cling to hope to the very end?
Is happiness just a myth or does it truly exist?
Shafique, a serious antiquarian of books with a painful past.
Their love for books led them to unintentionally stumble upon each other, over and over again. Nothing is coincidental; everything is decreed.
This is not just a love story.
This is a story of preserverance, hope and faith. Of happiness that comes unexpectedly. Of sorrow that tests even the strongest.
Leaving is hard but at times, staying is even harder to do.
Can Sofea and Shafique find their way through their struggles and cling to hope to the very end?
Is happiness just a myth or does it truly exist?
333 pages, Paperback
First published April 24, 2024
34 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
About the author
Norhafsah Hamid
18 books610 followersNorhafsah Hamid was born in 1973 and received primary and secondary education in Malaysia. She then proceeded to pursue her studies in United Kingdom until she graduated with a law degree from Reading University, United Kingdom. She completer her Bar in Malaysia and went back to United Kingdom to work for a year. She then came back to Malaysia to commence her practice as an Advocate and Solicitor, specializing in civil litigation matters. She completed her Diploma in Syariah & Legal Practise and has been handling various Syariah matters.
Currently she has taken a break from civil practise and co-founded an NGO called 'Nadi Anissa Muslim Women Organisation. she now dedicates her time to her family and Islam.
Currently she has taken a break from civil practise and co-founded an NGO called 'Nadi Anissa Muslim Women Organisation. she now dedicates her time to her family and Islam.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 15, 2024
{25/2024} 3.5/5🌟 General Fiction | 326 pages
My husband is my bestfriend. Call me a clingy wife but I do a lot of things with him - grocery shopping, morning breakfast when he is not working, going to the wet market, reading at the coffee shop, cafe hopping, almost everything.
We were schoolmates before but Allah’s qadr made us met each other again after many, many years so we did not really have a lot of time dating whatsoever. We do that mostly after we got married. So, the storyline of this book hit me.
The story was about Sofea and Shafique when they met twice on fateful coincidences. It could be love at first sights but they never thought they would meet each other, yes, again. Little did they know, they had actually met a very long time before, all thanks to the friendship of their fathers.
After knowing their fathers were bestfriends during a family dinner - love blossommed. They liked each other, but they wanted to set things on its own course, to see whether they suited each other. They wanted to get to know each other of course under the scrutiny eyes of their fathers and finally they got married.
Like other married couples, the true tests might come after tying the knots. That is when we finally know the strength and weaknesses of our spouses. No exception for both Sofea and Shafique. Together, Sofea and Shafique accepted the bad and good of each other. Learning to give and take, and most importantly, having patience towards each other. That was until they faced perhaps the biggest tests of their marriage. One, was already hurtful, but both Shafique and Sofea were already champions of it. They passed. But, the unexpected one was the true test for both of them. It was a test of faith. Would they be able to handle and face it together?
I love the premise of the story. The things that caught my eye to this book was of course firstly, the author, because I have read her other works and she is well-known for her syarie-compliant content. Secondly, was the aesthetic video by the publisher and the blurb. The blurb described Sofea as a headstrong librarian while Shafique was a book antiquarian who met because of their love of books. However, I was quite disappointed as their love for books were not really portrayed in the storyline apart from the mentioning of certain titles of literary texts and quotes from prominent author, but perhaps it could be just me expecting too much.
I love the storyline because I think it was romantic (and halal 🤓). How they met twice, how they dated, how Shafique proposed Sofea, and how both Shafique and Sofea treated each other after they got married. I love how each chapter starts with a quranic translation pertaining to what would happen. Still, I think there were loopholes, where I would have so many questions. Some characters could have more development and some probably need explanation and backgrounds.
The story certainly taught me about love and the most important people in our lives will always be our family eventhough those who iniate certain problems could be from family too. Another important message to take in would be the qadr of Allah. Allah tests us because He loves us and He would never leave us forsaken.
I cried a lot towards the end most probably because I am always reminded of what my husband and I would always discuss together, that is when one of us leaves the other first. My husband without fail will always remind me what to do in case he would be the one leaving the world before me. I would always be in denial because I am scared, but I know he is trying to tell me we don’t know what is planned ahead of us. So, the last 30% of the story was waterworks all the way for me.
The language was easy to understand but on a serious note, perhaps a thorough proofreading needs to be done for future works as I did have some problems with the language cohesion but it certainly did not deter me from a meaningful read. But of course, we would want our local publications to be on the same par or even better than international ones.
A recommended read if you are a fan of the author’s work, love syarie-compliant content and a romantic at heart.
#justreaddontbawang #bookmehnia #MayReads #MayTBRs #bookstagrammalaysia #bookstagrammy #malaysiamembaca #bookstagrammer #bookgram #bibliophile #bibliophilemy #bookish #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #bookish #readersofinstagram #goodreads #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #comewhatmay #maythebookforcebewithus #itsgonnabemay #ifonlyyouremember #norhafsahhamid
My husband is my bestfriend. Call me a clingy wife but I do a lot of things with him - grocery shopping, morning breakfast when he is not working, going to the wet market, reading at the coffee shop, cafe hopping, almost everything.
We were schoolmates before but Allah’s qadr made us met each other again after many, many years so we did not really have a lot of time dating whatsoever. We do that mostly after we got married. So, the storyline of this book hit me.
The story was about Sofea and Shafique when they met twice on fateful coincidences. It could be love at first sights but they never thought they would meet each other, yes, again. Little did they know, they had actually met a very long time before, all thanks to the friendship of their fathers.
After knowing their fathers were bestfriends during a family dinner - love blossommed. They liked each other, but they wanted to set things on its own course, to see whether they suited each other. They wanted to get to know each other of course under the scrutiny eyes of their fathers and finally they got married.
Like other married couples, the true tests might come after tying the knots. That is when we finally know the strength and weaknesses of our spouses. No exception for both Sofea and Shafique. Together, Sofea and Shafique accepted the bad and good of each other. Learning to give and take, and most importantly, having patience towards each other. That was until they faced perhaps the biggest tests of their marriage. One, was already hurtful, but both Shafique and Sofea were already champions of it. They passed. But, the unexpected one was the true test for both of them. It was a test of faith. Would they be able to handle and face it together?
I love the premise of the story. The things that caught my eye to this book was of course firstly, the author, because I have read her other works and she is well-known for her syarie-compliant content. Secondly, was the aesthetic video by the publisher and the blurb. The blurb described Sofea as a headstrong librarian while Shafique was a book antiquarian who met because of their love of books. However, I was quite disappointed as their love for books were not really portrayed in the storyline apart from the mentioning of certain titles of literary texts and quotes from prominent author, but perhaps it could be just me expecting too much.
I love the storyline because I think it was romantic (and halal 🤓). How they met twice, how they dated, how Shafique proposed Sofea, and how both Shafique and Sofea treated each other after they got married. I love how each chapter starts with a quranic translation pertaining to what would happen. Still, I think there were loopholes, where I would have so many questions. Some characters could have more development and some probably need explanation and backgrounds.
The story certainly taught me about love and the most important people in our lives will always be our family eventhough those who iniate certain problems could be from family too. Another important message to take in would be the qadr of Allah. Allah tests us because He loves us and He would never leave us forsaken.
I cried a lot towards the end most probably because I am always reminded of what my husband and I would always discuss together, that is when one of us leaves the other first. My husband without fail will always remind me what to do in case he would be the one leaving the world before me. I would always be in denial because I am scared, but I know he is trying to tell me we don’t know what is planned ahead of us. So, the last 30% of the story was waterworks all the way for me.
The language was easy to understand but on a serious note, perhaps a thorough proofreading needs to be done for future works as I did have some problems with the language cohesion but it certainly did not deter me from a meaningful read. But of course, we would want our local publications to be on the same par or even better than international ones.
A recommended read if you are a fan of the author’s work, love syarie-compliant content and a romantic at heart.
#justreaddontbawang #bookmehnia #MayReads #MayTBRs #bookstagrammalaysia #bookstagrammy #malaysiamembaca #bookstagrammer #bookgram #bibliophile #bibliophilemy #bookish #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #bookish #readersofinstagram #goodreads #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #comewhatmay #maythebookforcebewithus #itsgonnabemay #ifonlyyouremember #norhafsahhamid
May 13, 2024
30/2024
-If Only You Remember
-Norhafsah Hamid
Izinkan saya meresensi naskhah ini dalam bahasa Melayu sebab kalau bahasa Inggeris risau dia tertukar jadi bahasa rojak.😂😂😂 Sejujurnya nama Norhafsah memang tiada dalam senarai penulis kegemaran saya masa dulu. Bermula dengan novel Will You Stay yang ketika itu sedang rancak diperkatakan, saya terus mencuba membaca naskhah beliau. Dan sehinggalah ke novel IOYR ini, saya tidak menyesal meletakkan beliau dalam senarai penulis kegemaran saya.
Saya memang kurang menggemari novel berbahasa Inggeris kerana terkadang susunan ayatnya agak sukar difahami. Namun, tidak bagi naskhah Norhafsah kerana penggunaan bahasa Inggeris mudah dalam karya beliau menjadikan saya sebagai pembaca senang untuk memahami jalan cerita. Kali ini, kita mengenal watak Shafique dan Sofea dalam mewarnakan kisah rumah tangga mereka berdua.
Sama seperti kisah kisah terdahulu, pasangan kali ini juga diuji dengan ujian hidup yang tersendiri. Bagaimana tabahnya Sofea untuk memastikan hidup Shafique benar benar terjaga membuatkan emosi saya turut terkesan dengan kisah mereka. Separuh cerita yang terawal sudah pasti penulis berjaya membawa kita menyelami bagaimana si 'Cinderella' bertemu dengan puteranya. Telatah Sofea dan Shafique membuatkan kita senang dengan kisah hidup mereka. Dan sehinggalah rumah tangga itu terbina. Badai datang tanpa dipinta.
Kesimpulannya, novel tulisan penulis kali ini masih juga mengekalkan elemen yang sama seperti naskhah terdahulu melalui siri Will You... Ketabahan, kasih sayang, pengorbanan... Semuanya lengkap terisi dalam buku ini. Cumanya, saya rasa ada sedikit kurang berbanding dengan naskhah beliau sebelum ini. Walau apapun, buat peminat NH, If Only You Remember antara karya yang perlu ada untuk mengisi jiwa anda. Tahniah buat penulis.
-If Only You Remember
-Norhafsah Hamid
Izinkan saya meresensi naskhah ini dalam bahasa Melayu sebab kalau bahasa Inggeris risau dia tertukar jadi bahasa rojak.😂😂😂 Sejujurnya nama Norhafsah memang tiada dalam senarai penulis kegemaran saya masa dulu. Bermula dengan novel Will You Stay yang ketika itu sedang rancak diperkatakan, saya terus mencuba membaca naskhah beliau. Dan sehinggalah ke novel IOYR ini, saya tidak menyesal meletakkan beliau dalam senarai penulis kegemaran saya.
Saya memang kurang menggemari novel berbahasa Inggeris kerana terkadang susunan ayatnya agak sukar difahami. Namun, tidak bagi naskhah Norhafsah kerana penggunaan bahasa Inggeris mudah dalam karya beliau menjadikan saya sebagai pembaca senang untuk memahami jalan cerita. Kali ini, kita mengenal watak Shafique dan Sofea dalam mewarnakan kisah rumah tangga mereka berdua.
Sama seperti kisah kisah terdahulu, pasangan kali ini juga diuji dengan ujian hidup yang tersendiri. Bagaimana tabahnya Sofea untuk memastikan hidup Shafique benar benar terjaga membuatkan emosi saya turut terkesan dengan kisah mereka. Separuh cerita yang terawal sudah pasti penulis berjaya membawa kita menyelami bagaimana si 'Cinderella' bertemu dengan puteranya. Telatah Sofea dan Shafique membuatkan kita senang dengan kisah hidup mereka. Dan sehinggalah rumah tangga itu terbina. Badai datang tanpa dipinta.
Kesimpulannya, novel tulisan penulis kali ini masih juga mengekalkan elemen yang sama seperti naskhah terdahulu melalui siri Will You... Ketabahan, kasih sayang, pengorbanan... Semuanya lengkap terisi dalam buku ini. Cumanya, saya rasa ada sedikit kurang berbanding dengan naskhah beliau sebelum ini. Walau apapun, buat peminat NH, If Only You Remember antara karya yang perlu ada untuk mengisi jiwa anda. Tahniah buat penulis.
May 14, 2024
“Everything that is made beautiful and fair and lovely is made for the eye of one who sees.”
If Only You Remember brings us to the story of a librarian and an antiquarian bookseller who fall in love and get married. Since both of them are booklovers, for their honeymoon, the majestic old libraries around Europe and antique second-hand bookstores have been their romantic places looking for ‘treasures’. Their romantic love story metamorphoses into the story of perseverance, hope and faith when Shafique was diagnosed with dementia.
The change of phrase from “How can I forget? I do remember the little girl” into “Sorry. I don’t remember you.” was the strongest test needs to be endured by Sofea.
Albeit the loss of memory, Shafique has never forget his wife. He left her a letter before his memory is deteriorating. He wanted her to find her own happiness by giving her the permission to leave him as he doesn’t want to be the burden for Sofea.
“If I do forget you, please know that my heart will always remember you even if my mind does not. My love will never fade even if me memory does.
I want you to know that I want you to be happy and if happiness means to love me, please do so with my blessing. I am giving you my consent to leave.
Be happy. Find your own happiness.”
Takeaway messages from this book:
Nothing is impossible with divine intervention because when God Almighty decides on something, then nothing is impossible.
Find your tranquility and peace by remembering God.
Life is truly about choices. To make the right choice is never easy but if one seeks for guidance from God Almighty, inshaAllah He will guide on through even the most difficult hurdle and obstacles.
It is not wrong for God to make us not understand His Decisions. Everything happens for a reason but unfortunately, we don’t always know or understand the reasons, so we ask God for clarification and acceptance. There’s no sin in that. God even tell us to ask, and He will respond.
If Only You Remember brings us to the story of a librarian and an antiquarian bookseller who fall in love and get married. Since both of them are booklovers, for their honeymoon, the majestic old libraries around Europe and antique second-hand bookstores have been their romantic places looking for ‘treasures’. Their romantic love story metamorphoses into the story of perseverance, hope and faith when Shafique was diagnosed with dementia.
The change of phrase from “How can I forget? I do remember the little girl” into “Sorry. I don’t remember you.” was the strongest test needs to be endured by Sofea.
Albeit the loss of memory, Shafique has never forget his wife. He left her a letter before his memory is deteriorating. He wanted her to find her own happiness by giving her the permission to leave him as he doesn’t want to be the burden for Sofea.
“If I do forget you, please know that my heart will always remember you even if my mind does not. My love will never fade even if me memory does.
I want you to know that I want you to be happy and if happiness means to love me, please do so with my blessing. I am giving you my consent to leave.
Be happy. Find your own happiness.”
Takeaway messages from this book:
Nothing is impossible with divine intervention because when God Almighty decides on something, then nothing is impossible.
Find your tranquility and peace by remembering God.
Life is truly about choices. To make the right choice is never easy but if one seeks for guidance from God Almighty, inshaAllah He will guide on through even the most difficult hurdle and obstacles.
It is not wrong for God to make us not understand His Decisions. Everything happens for a reason but unfortunately, we don’t always know or understand the reasons, so we ask God for clarification and acceptance. There’s no sin in that. God even tell us to ask, and He will respond.
July 8, 2024
Okay at first i didnt expect much from this book..Cause like aku teracun dri tiktok..so i just..belilah buat baca boring2..But once i read it..i just cant stopp..Eventhough i have my important exam on that week but i literally didnt touch ma subject book beside this book!! I REALLY LOVE IT AND WAITING FOR THE NEXT BOOK FROM THIS AUTHOR💕
June 21, 2024
OMG. So sad 😭😭😭 i did not expect it to be this sad. I knew it when it is too good to be true at the start there must be something wrong somewhere at the end. My heart hurts for Sofea. If it is for me how am I supposed to live after that. This world is too cruel. 😩😩😩
May 24, 2024
When Sofea, a librarian met with Shafique, a book antiquarian, they clicked quite easily. Though they have history of meeting unexpectedly a few times in the past, but they believed everything is decreed.
With strong family support from both parents, Akhbar and Zulaiqha of Sofea and Salahaddin and Mariam of Shafique, both of the leads are well equipped with assistance and positive advise from both side. However, Shafique had a painful past related to his very own biological mother.
The first half of the novel, the story seems slow but still beautiful with both of their journey. The author may not described as detailed about their career, but the gist is there and understandable.
The second half of the novel shocked me so much. I am devastated but not to the point of crying. The emotion of sadness is so full in that chapter I have to stop reading and reflect on what happen to both Sofea and Shafique.
Their parents really helpful at this time of pain, and assist Sofea and Shafique despite the Sofea's grief arises as Shafique's sickness deteriorated.
I love how the author beautifully wrapped this story in the end. The power of dua, with God's intervention, anything is possible.
With strong family support from both parents, Akhbar and Zulaiqha of Sofea and Salahaddin and Mariam of Shafique, both of the leads are well equipped with assistance and positive advise from both side. However, Shafique had a painful past related to his very own biological mother.
The first half of the novel, the story seems slow but still beautiful with both of their journey. The author may not described as detailed about their career, but the gist is there and understandable.
The second half of the novel shocked me so much. I am devastated but not to the point of crying. The emotion of sadness is so full in that chapter I have to stop reading and reflect on what happen to both Sofea and Shafique.
Their parents really helpful at this time of pain, and assist Sofea and Shafique despite the Sofea's grief arises as Shafique's sickness deteriorated.
I love how the author beautifully wrapped this story in the end. The power of dua, with God's intervention, anything is possible.
December 22, 2024
After my third or fourth book of hers, I noticed that she wrote in a certain pattern. The FL and ML all have the same personality, the plot also are very much the same😅I wasn’t expecting much in this, but I was still touched by the quranic verses at the beginning of each chapters and I actually cried near the ending and epilogue
December 1, 2024
Wow. Just wow. Half of the book made me sooo happy and then the other half ? Guess what. I was bawling inside. I finished the book during my morning jog in a public space. OFCOURSE I CANT CRYYY.
But i truly love her silver in lining mindset and how she nurtured the the love between the two characters
But i truly love her silver in lining mindset and how she nurtured the the love between the two characters
October 31, 2024
IM JUST WEEPING 😭😭 let me write a review after i managed to calm down 😩
edit: i managed to calm down the day next ✌🏻 well here's my review....
i did picked up this book due to the fact that both of the main protagonist have a same passion which is; books. Sofea works as a librarian (and she literally quoted Rumi most of the time) and Shafique owned a company that developed a great taste towards antique books. So both of them completely SOLD to me !
what i did not expect is how i would be utterly emotional wrecked while reading it. I think you could ask my mother how i've been sobbing much while heading towards to the final chapters :( i kept my hopes soared high in hoping that i could get a HEA whereas both of the main characters get through till the end. They DID get through but sadly not in the way i was expecting it.
Shafique's love language and his gentleman-like character is a great spotlight to the readers and reminded ourselves to try and choose a great spouse for us to be with. And Sofea's characteristics to always stand with her husband and felt the need to protect him all the time; and so she deserves to receive an appreciation for that. And i could daresay that there should be a distinct found-family trope too.
despite all of that, i hugely praise for the author that managed to create characters that felt personally close to me. I couldn't help myself that find some bits of resemblance between me and Sofea. From our passion to our protective mama bear mode and even brown eyes *wink wink* also when she love someone, she loves hard & fiercely might i add.
but i just thought that the ending felt a lil bit rushed and would have been better to gain more moments between both of them before Shafique bids his farewell *sobsob*
despite that, i enjoyed reading simple books like this nontheless and i might even gonna say that this is one my fav book from the author ❤️
edit: i managed to calm down the day next ✌🏻 well here's my review....
i did picked up this book due to the fact that both of the main protagonist have a same passion which is; books. Sofea works as a librarian (and she literally quoted Rumi most of the time) and Shafique owned a company that developed a great taste towards antique books. So both of them completely SOLD to me !
what i did not expect is how i would be utterly emotional wrecked while reading it. I think you could ask my mother how i've been sobbing much while heading towards to the final chapters :( i kept my hopes soared high in hoping that i could get a HEA whereas both of the main characters get through till the end. They DID get through but sadly not in the way i was expecting it.
Shafique's love language and his gentleman-like character is a great spotlight to the readers and reminded ourselves to try and choose a great spouse for us to be with. And Sofea's characteristics to always stand with her husband and felt the need to protect him all the time; and so she deserves to receive an appreciation for that. And i could daresay that there should be a distinct found-family trope too.
despite all of that, i hugely praise for the author that managed to create characters that felt personally close to me. I couldn't help myself that find some bits of resemblance between me and Sofea. From our passion to our protective mama bear mode and even brown eyes *wink wink* also when she love someone, she loves hard & fiercely might i add.
but i just thought that the ending felt a lil bit rushed and would have been better to gain more moments between both of them before Shafique bids his farewell *sobsob*
despite that, i enjoyed reading simple books like this nontheless and i might even gonna say that this is one my fav book from the author ❤️
June 23, 2024
AHHHH THIS BOOOK!! Oke part last Tu i confused sikit Sbb is shafique alive or not but this novel an sooo romantic+Sad😞 Yang romantic Tu part Yang dieorg cakap "habibi" shafique tolong masakkan untuk sofea Sbb die tk pandai masak HAHAHAHAH Yang sad Tu part Yang anak sofea main buyaian tempat shafique duduk 😭 time dieorg kecikkan dieorg pernah main sama2 just shafique time Tu budak pendiam😞 and sofea was an energetic girl .
October 5, 2024
If Only You Remember by Norhafsah Hamid
Tells a story about Sofea, a headstrong librarian and Shafique, a serious antiquarian of books with a painful past. Their love for books led them to unintentionally stumble upon each other. When happiness comes unexpectedly, there's sorrow that tests even the strongest.
Can Sofea and Shafique find their way through their struggles?
______________________________
First few chapters, I was smiling and giggling with them.💖 In fact that this is a halal romance book makes me even want to punch the air. I love it when there's some times that Shafique calls Sofea as "Cinderella" (iykyk), that was literally the most cutest scene ever. 🙈
Another things that I like about this book is because both of them love to read books. They're compliment for each other! (God, how I wish to have someone who loves to read book too. 😭) However, I wish it could be more scenes where they talk about books instead of just their monologue. Sometimes, I just feels that they're some scenes that are repetitive.
Then, when I read towards the end of the book, here's comes the pain and sorrows.🥹 The moment I finished reading this book, I was too stunned to speak. I was literally had no idea that this book is very sad and heart-wrenching story. It was one of the saddest book I've ever read in my life. 😭😭😭 Now that I understand about the title of this book. Kak Norhafsah Hamid never fails to make me cry with her books. 🥹😭
What makes me even bawling my eyes out is that Sofea always there for Shafique during his hard times. Even when Shafique couldn't remember her, and asked her to leave him, she always stays by his side no matter what. THAT WAS SUCH A TRUE LOVE. 😭
"𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒏. 𝑯𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉." -Sofea
And Shafique, he was the best husband for Sofea.🥺 Even they're strangers at the first place, but Shafique never fails to makes her falling in love with him after they're married. He cooked for her, protect her, and do every little thing for her. Literally husband material ever. 🥺🫶
"𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍, 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔. 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉." -Shafique
Overall, this book teaches us about perseverance, hope and faith. Leaving is hard but at times, staying is even harder. This books proves that true love is exist. 💌
Personal rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Pain level: 9/10 💧😭
Tells a story about Sofea, a headstrong librarian and Shafique, a serious antiquarian of books with a painful past. Their love for books led them to unintentionally stumble upon each other. When happiness comes unexpectedly, there's sorrow that tests even the strongest.
Can Sofea and Shafique find their way through their struggles?
______________________________
First few chapters, I was smiling and giggling with them.💖 In fact that this is a halal romance book makes me even want to punch the air. I love it when there's some times that Shafique calls Sofea as "Cinderella" (iykyk), that was literally the most cutest scene ever. 🙈
Another things that I like about this book is because both of them love to read books. They're compliment for each other! (God, how I wish to have someone who loves to read book too. 😭) However, I wish it could be more scenes where they talk about books instead of just their monologue. Sometimes, I just feels that they're some scenes that are repetitive.
Then, when I read towards the end of the book, here's comes the pain and sorrows.🥹 The moment I finished reading this book, I was too stunned to speak. I was literally had no idea that this book is very sad and heart-wrenching story. It was one of the saddest book I've ever read in my life. 😭😭😭 Now that I understand about the title of this book. Kak Norhafsah Hamid never fails to make me cry with her books. 🥹😭
What makes me even bawling my eyes out is that Sofea always there for Shafique during his hard times. Even when Shafique couldn't remember her, and asked her to leave him, she always stays by his side no matter what. THAT WAS SUCH A TRUE LOVE. 😭
"𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒏. 𝑯𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉." -Sofea
And Shafique, he was the best husband for Sofea.🥺 Even they're strangers at the first place, but Shafique never fails to makes her falling in love with him after they're married. He cooked for her, protect her, and do every little thing for her. Literally husband material ever. 🥺🫶
"𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍, 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔. 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉." -Shafique
Overall, this book teaches us about perseverance, hope and faith. Leaving is hard but at times, staying is even harder. This books proves that true love is exist. 💌
Personal rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Pain level: 9/10 💧😭
June 13, 2024
It was quite slow but it is not that bad either. The plot twist in a plot twist at the end of the book left me confuse on how to react 😭
June 7, 2024
Love how the author inputs Al-Quran verses in every chapter and duas made by the characters. Love how it ends and the emphasis on the remembrance of Allah to help ease our difficulties. Love how the storyline is relatable which helps us to find connections along with the story. Simple storyline yet meaningful.
June 4, 2024
I found myself reading this book much faster as compared to the earlier ones. Perhaps I'm used to some of the plots or perhaps I'm quite familiar with some of the characters inside it.
As usual Kak Hafsah novel has always been a good reminder to becoming a better muslim. Alhamdulillah 🥰
As usual Kak Hafsah novel has always been a good reminder to becoming a better muslim. Alhamdulillah 🥰
May 23, 2024
3.75
It’s giving me similar vibe to Queen of Tears drama but more islamic(I think)
It’s giving me similar vibe to Queen of Tears drama but more islamic(I think)
December 11, 2024
I kept seeing this book everywhere—on TikTok, in bookstores—and something about it just drew me in. The moment I picked it up, I couldn’t let go. If Only You Remember by Norhafsah Hamid, a beautifully written novel by a Malaysian author, is my first time reading a story like this.
As a Christian, I was curious about what this book could teach me about the lives of my Muslim friends. But by the end, I was left amazed. It opened my eyes to the beauty of Islamic values, especially the way they approach love, courtship, and marriage, all rooted in deep faith in Allah. It’s not just a story—it’s an eye-opener and a heartfelt journey.
The main character, Sofea, is a gem. Her resilience and faith moved me deeply. When her marriage was tested by her husband’s memory loss, I could feel her heartbreak. Yet, she stayed strong, guided by her love for him and her trust in Allah. It made me reflect on how difficult it must be for a woman to carry on when the person she loves most doesn’t even remember her.
But what stood out to me was how blessed Sofea and her husband were because of their parents. Their parents weren’t just part of the story—they were the pillars of support that reminded me how crucial family is in shaping our lives. They were gems, providing love, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement during Sofea's most challenging moments. This book showed me how parents are a blessing, grounding us with their values and faith.
I cried while reading this. It’s not just a story about love between husband and wife; it’s also about God’s love for us, the strength we draw from our families, and the reminder that, no matter how tough life gets, God is always listening. The story encouraged me to see the beauty in hardships and to trust God’s plans fully.
Norhafsah’s writing is simple yet powerful, blending spiritual reflections with a moving storyline. It’s relatable and thought-provoking, teaching me so much—not just about Islam but also about the universal values of faith, perseverance, and love.
If Only You Remember left a deep impact on me. It’s a story that teaches us to cherish our relationships, stay resilient in the face of challenges, and most importantly, to remember God in every aspect of our lives. This book reminds us that through the love of family and faith, we can endure anything.
If you’re searching for a novel that inspires, teaches, and leaves you with a full heart, this is the one.
As a Christian, I was curious about what this book could teach me about the lives of my Muslim friends. But by the end, I was left amazed. It opened my eyes to the beauty of Islamic values, especially the way they approach love, courtship, and marriage, all rooted in deep faith in Allah. It’s not just a story—it’s an eye-opener and a heartfelt journey.
The main character, Sofea, is a gem. Her resilience and faith moved me deeply. When her marriage was tested by her husband’s memory loss, I could feel her heartbreak. Yet, she stayed strong, guided by her love for him and her trust in Allah. It made me reflect on how difficult it must be for a woman to carry on when the person she loves most doesn’t even remember her.
But what stood out to me was how blessed Sofea and her husband were because of their parents. Their parents weren’t just part of the story—they were the pillars of support that reminded me how crucial family is in shaping our lives. They were gems, providing love, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement during Sofea's most challenging moments. This book showed me how parents are a blessing, grounding us with their values and faith.
I cried while reading this. It’s not just a story about love between husband and wife; it’s also about God’s love for us, the strength we draw from our families, and the reminder that, no matter how tough life gets, God is always listening. The story encouraged me to see the beauty in hardships and to trust God’s plans fully.
Norhafsah’s writing is simple yet powerful, blending spiritual reflections with a moving storyline. It’s relatable and thought-provoking, teaching me so much—not just about Islam but also about the universal values of faith, perseverance, and love.
If Only You Remember left a deep impact on me. It’s a story that teaches us to cherish our relationships, stay resilient in the face of challenges, and most importantly, to remember God in every aspect of our lives. This book reminds us that through the love of family and faith, we can endure anything.
If you’re searching for a novel that inspires, teaches, and leaves you with a full heart, this is the one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2024
Their 'first' meet was when she rushed to catch her train after losing track of time at the bookshop and he returned her scarf. The second time they met was when he returned her boarding ticket after she accidentally dropped it. The coincidences turned into fate when they met again, this time, in a meeting where they finally learnt each other names. As it turned out, their father was a long-time friend and would like to match them for a marriage.
Sofea, a librarian with a deep love for books and Shafique, an antiquarian with a love for books as deep as Sofea's. A match like those written in books. The first part of the book tells a story of them trying to get to know each other and see if they matched well for marriage. I can't deny that it was a little slow but the journey was still beautiful. With their meddling fathers, it was enjoyable and filled with such warmth. Except when Shafique's devil birth mother and sister came into the scene. With them, it was rage, all over, everywhere. Those women were nasty and evil to the core.
Just like the stories of the three musketeers, Sofea's and Shafique's stories also came with challenges. It was devastating, to say the least. Now, the title really made sense. Soooo much sense. This second part was filled with Sofea's struggles, hopes, faiths and unconditional love. It was sad that I had tears in my eyes throughout reading the remaining story. And finally, the tears dropped when Shafique called out her name and asked what was wrong.
I especially love the way this story ended. It was perfect. It leaves me so much to ponder on having faith in Allah's plan and never losing hope in His mercy. The story, for me, is perfect in so many ways. Thank you kak Hafsah for this beautiful story.
Sofea, a librarian with a deep love for books and Shafique, an antiquarian with a love for books as deep as Sofea's. A match like those written in books. The first part of the book tells a story of them trying to get to know each other and see if they matched well for marriage. I can't deny that it was a little slow but the journey was still beautiful. With their meddling fathers, it was enjoyable and filled with such warmth. Except when Shafique's devil birth mother and sister came into the scene. With them, it was rage, all over, everywhere. Those women were nasty and evil to the core.
Just like the stories of the three musketeers, Sofea's and Shafique's stories also came with challenges. It was devastating, to say the least. Now, the title really made sense. Soooo much sense. This second part was filled with Sofea's struggles, hopes, faiths and unconditional love. It was sad that I had tears in my eyes throughout reading the remaining story. And finally, the tears dropped when Shafique called out her name and asked what was wrong.
I especially love the way this story ended. It was perfect. It leaves me so much to ponder on having faith in Allah's plan and never losing hope in His mercy. The story, for me, is perfect in so many ways. Thank you kak Hafsah for this beautiful story.
May 21, 2024
This is totally a different genre from what I've been reviewing. Well guess what? Here's a love story. And a good one I must say.
You might be wondering why does it good and how does this book immediately caught my attention??
The enormous reason that got me buying and reading this book is because of the characters. Sofea and Shafique. They are definitely enthralling! A couple of bookworms gather in a story 🥲🥰. What more do we need? Besides, I love how the author writes about their parents. Loving, caring, supportive and funny!
As I keep on reading, I love how Sofea and Shafique keep on accidently meeting each other. And I love it even more when the author relates the situation with the hadith of kindred souls. Where their souls could have met each other before and now their souls have recognised one another.
But...
behind those happy and exciting phases, there is always a pitfall. Happiness does not come on its own, it is a package. Comes with the feeling of sadness, anger, frustration. To be happy is to accept everything that push us away from being happy.
"Indeed I'm near."
The best part of this love story is how great their love is for Allah.
If Only You Remember is not just about how Shafique suffers dementia and how Sofea wishes Shafique could recognise her once again. But it is about how both Sofea and Shafique remember Allah in every moment of their life. And how it helps them to continue living their life no matter how tough it is. And how the help of Allah is always near 🥺.
He always believed that by remembering God, God will shower His mercy on him.
You might be wondering why does it good and how does this book immediately caught my attention??
The enormous reason that got me buying and reading this book is because of the characters. Sofea and Shafique. They are definitely enthralling! A couple of bookworms gather in a story 🥲🥰. What more do we need? Besides, I love how the author writes about their parents. Loving, caring, supportive and funny!
As I keep on reading, I love how Sofea and Shafique keep on accidently meeting each other. And I love it even more when the author relates the situation with the hadith of kindred souls. Where their souls could have met each other before and now their souls have recognised one another.
But...
behind those happy and exciting phases, there is always a pitfall. Happiness does not come on its own, it is a package. Comes with the feeling of sadness, anger, frustration. To be happy is to accept everything that push us away from being happy.
"Indeed I'm near."
The best part of this love story is how great their love is for Allah.
If Only You Remember is not just about how Shafique suffers dementia and how Sofea wishes Shafique could recognise her once again. But it is about how both Sofea and Shafique remember Allah in every moment of their life. And how it helps them to continue living their life no matter how tough it is. And how the help of Allah is always near 🥺.
He always believed that by remembering God, God will shower His mercy on him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2024
If Only You Remember is about the love story of Sofea and Shafique. Sofea is a librarian and Shafique is a book collector. Both love books. They first taaruf, she feels shy, but he knows how to make Sofea feel comfortable by talking about books.🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
My honest review of this book? I blushed, laughed, and almost cried reading it. It has slight similarities with the K-drama ‘Queen of Tears.’ After reading it, you will understand why the title and cover are like that. 😔
This book follows the same storyline pattern as her other books. You'll understand if you've been reading her books. I'm okay with that because that kind of love story is what I like: love after marriage.
I noticed some dialogues were the same as in her previous books, which made it feel less special since I had already encountered them. It makes the male lead not stand out and doesn’t feel particularly special to me. Because I’ve met characters like Rasyid, Harris, Hassan, and Jaws, who have said something similar to what the male lead said in this book.
But if this is my first book that I’ve read from her, I would definitely give it 5⭐️.
Overall, I still enjoyed it, and for me, it’s hard to find this kind of romance book that truly adheres to what Islam teaches. Not normalizing couples and showing the right way to love. 💗
3.8 ⭐️
My honest review of this book? I blushed, laughed, and almost cried reading it. It has slight similarities with the K-drama ‘Queen of Tears.’ After reading it, you will understand why the title and cover are like that. 😔
This book follows the same storyline pattern as her other books. You'll understand if you've been reading her books. I'm okay with that because that kind of love story is what I like: love after marriage.
I noticed some dialogues were the same as in her previous books, which made it feel less special since I had already encountered them. It makes the male lead not stand out and doesn’t feel particularly special to me. Because I’ve met characters like Rasyid, Harris, Hassan, and Jaws, who have said something similar to what the male lead said in this book.
But if this is my first book that I’ve read from her, I would definitely give it 5⭐️.
Overall, I still enjoyed it, and for me, it’s hard to find this kind of romance book that truly adheres to what Islam teaches. Not normalizing couples and showing the right way to love. 💗
3.8 ⭐️
June 3, 2025
📖: 𝐈𝐟 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐲 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐟𝐬𝐚𝐡 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐝
Rate: 𝟒/𝟓 ⭐️
Sofea, a strong-willed librarian, and Shafique, a reserved antiquarian with a painful past, are brought together by their shared love for books. Their journey is filled with trials, loss, and hope. Torn between remembering and forgetting, they must decide whether to stay or walk away. This is a story of love, perseverance, and unexpected happiness proving that even in sorrow, hope can still shine through.
𝐒𝐎𝐅𝐄𝐀 x 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐅𝐈𝐐𝐔𝐄
I did picked up this book because the two main protagonist have a same passion in books. Sofea is a librarian at Reading University (Librarian is one of my dream work) and Shafique owned a company which looks for antique books I think?
I did not expect that I finished this book in just one day. I sobbed a bit when reading the most tragic scene in the book. I felt so bad about Shafique and Sofea. They just got married for a few months and... I will not spoil anything. Sorry.
My heart beats fast whenever I read the scene where Shafique was such a gentleman to Sofea. The fact that he woke up earky in the morning and made Sofea a homemade lunch because he knew Sofea will not go out to habe lunch when she’s working is so 😍. Shafique is a walking green flag! 🌳
I’m very glad that the story did not end up like ’Will You Love Me?’. I already knew what Norhafsah’s plan is for every book she published.
I love how Norhafsah love to put Quran verses in every of her books. While reading the verses one by one at every chapter , I felt more closer to God. I also believe her writing makes me a bit bored but she always writes love stories different than others.
Rate: 𝟒/𝟓 ⭐️
Sofea, a strong-willed librarian, and Shafique, a reserved antiquarian with a painful past, are brought together by their shared love for books. Their journey is filled with trials, loss, and hope. Torn between remembering and forgetting, they must decide whether to stay or walk away. This is a story of love, perseverance, and unexpected happiness proving that even in sorrow, hope can still shine through.
𝐒𝐎𝐅𝐄𝐀 x 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐅𝐈𝐐𝐔𝐄
I did picked up this book because the two main protagonist have a same passion in books. Sofea is a librarian at Reading University (Librarian is one of my dream work) and Shafique owned a company which looks for antique books I think?
I did not expect that I finished this book in just one day. I sobbed a bit when reading the most tragic scene in the book. I felt so bad about Shafique and Sofea. They just got married for a few months and... I will not spoil anything. Sorry.
My heart beats fast whenever I read the scene where Shafique was such a gentleman to Sofea. The fact that he woke up earky in the morning and made Sofea a homemade lunch because he knew Sofea will not go out to habe lunch when she’s working is so 😍. Shafique is a walking green flag! 🌳
I’m very glad that the story did not end up like ’Will You Love Me?’. I already knew what Norhafsah’s plan is for every book she published.
I love how Norhafsah love to put Quran verses in every of her books. While reading the verses one by one at every chapter , I felt more closer to God. I also believe her writing makes me a bit bored but she always writes love stories different than others.
July 9, 2025
I genuinely love the premise of this book because both Sofea and Shafique have the same passion, which is their love for books. Hence, the main reason why I wanted to dive more into their story in the first place. Their unexpected encounter and also their taaruf sesh was quite appealing.
In this book, one thing I learned is that no matter how dreadful our circumstances are, do seek for His guidance. Allah will never leave us hanging. Allah will always listens to our pleas and He will uplift our burden we had been carrying.
It’s okay to question fate and the certain battles we have to face. But do remember, He will never burden a soul beyond it can bear.
What Sofea and Shafique had gone through was really heartbreaking but I find it hard to fully grasp with their devastating emotions while reading.
I would eventually might like this book even more if the writing was more in depth but all in all, I’m fond with how this book pretty much showcases the beauty of love after marriage.
In this book, one thing I learned is that no matter how dreadful our circumstances are, do seek for His guidance. Allah will never leave us hanging. Allah will always listens to our pleas and He will uplift our burden we had been carrying.
It’s okay to question fate and the certain battles we have to face. But do remember, He will never burden a soul beyond it can bear.
What Sofea and Shafique had gone through was really heartbreaking but I find it hard to fully grasp with their devastating emotions while reading.
I would eventually might like this book even more if the writing was more in depth but all in all, I’m fond with how this book pretty much showcases the beauty of love after marriage.
June 17, 2025
Reading IOYR thought me to be more humane, emphatic and having a different POV as a caregivers of a dementia patient.
This book teaches us about 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡. Leaving is hard but at times, staying is even harder.
The ending leaves me so much to ponder on having faith in Allah's plan and never losing hope in His mercy. 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗲; 𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗠𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲 𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹. ( al-Baqarah, 152)
📌 New perspective on arrange marriage.
📌 Reading this book at the same time marathon'ing 'Queen of Tears'. The vibes match! 😄
"You are my light, my happiness, and my joy.
My life is more meaningful since I met you. You made me laugh. You chased the dark clouds away. You loved me unconditionally.
But, if I do forget you, please know that my heart will always remember you even if my mind does not. My love will never fade even if my memory does."
This book teaches us about 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡. Leaving is hard but at times, staying is even harder.
The ending leaves me so much to ponder on having faith in Allah's plan and never losing hope in His mercy. 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗲; 𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗠𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲 𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹. ( al-Baqarah, 152)
📌 New perspective on arrange marriage.
📌 Reading this book at the same time marathon'ing 'Queen of Tears'. The vibes match! 😄
"You are my light, my happiness, and my joy.
My life is more meaningful since I met you. You made me laugh. You chased the dark clouds away. You loved me unconditionally.
But, if I do forget you, please know that my heart will always remember you even if my mind does not. My love will never fade even if my memory does."
August 10, 2024
If you're curious about an ideal Muslim family, this fiction offers the perfect portrayal. It beautifully illustrates the process of ta'aruf (getting to know a potential marriage candidate), the intricacies of wedding preparations, the nuances of married life, and the dynamics with in-laws, all through an Islamic lens.
The story takes an emotional turn with a husband battling dementia and a challenging, toxic mother, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Despite its sad undertones, the book skillfully weaves in humour, making it an engaging read.
It's a commendable effort in Malaysian-English fiction and can be easily finished in a day.
The only lack is its sudden, unnatural catchphrases and some repetition which might turn an avid English reader off. The storyline is okay, keep up the good work, writer.
The story takes an emotional turn with a husband battling dementia and a challenging, toxic mother, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Despite its sad undertones, the book skillfully weaves in humour, making it an engaging read.
It's a commendable effort in Malaysian-English fiction and can be easily finished in a day.
The only lack is its sudden, unnatural catchphrases and some repetition which might turn an avid English reader off. The storyline is okay, keep up the good work, writer.
July 11, 2024
If Only You Remember is about Sofea, a headstrong independent librarian and Shafique, a serious antiquarian of books with painful past. It is a love story and more. It's a story of preserverance, hope, and faith.
Do you like arranged marriage? There's a true meaning of arranged marriage in this story, and it's done perfectly. The words from Rumi and words from the Quran are woven in the storytelling, and there's endnotes that you can refer to. Some parts of the plot are a bit cliché, but it works. An arrogant mother asking the girl to leave his son? Well..., I don't mind some drama.
The title makes sense after more than half the story, and it's when things get serious. Before that, it's light hearted, and humourous.
However, one thing I find lacking is the way the story is being told. I want more of the showing than telling because I want to embrace the emotion that comes with the story. Actions speak louder than words. Don't tell me, but show me.
Do you like arranged marriage? There's a true meaning of arranged marriage in this story, and it's done perfectly. The words from Rumi and words from the Quran are woven in the storytelling, and there's endnotes that you can refer to. Some parts of the plot are a bit cliché, but it works. An arrogant mother asking the girl to leave his son? Well..., I don't mind some drama.
The title makes sense after more than half the story, and it's when things get serious. Before that, it's light hearted, and humourous.
However, one thing I find lacking is the way the story is being told. I want more of the showing than telling because I want to embrace the emotion that comes with the story. Actions speak louder than words. Don't tell me, but show me.
December 11, 2024
4.5 / 5⭐️
Norhafsah Hamid managed to make me cry🥲
Overall, this book is well written. I really enjoy the development of Shafique and Sofea from strangers to friends to lovers. If you're sucker for 'halal romance' books, this is for you.
Here are few things that could be improved in this book:
- both of them are bookworms but the author just touch surfacely. It could be better if there are few scenes where these two talk about books deeply so we can understand their passion (?) towards books
- i think those dramas from Jenab and Salimah are quite unnecessary
- the ending parts are quite rushing and i wish there could be more Shafique and Sofea before the story ends
Norhafsah Hamid managed to make me cry🥲
Overall, this book is well written. I really enjoy the development of Shafique and Sofea from strangers to friends to lovers. If you're sucker for 'halal romance' books, this is for you.
Here are few things that could be improved in this book:
- both of them are bookworms but the author just touch surfacely. It could be better if there are few scenes where these two talk about books deeply so we can understand their passion (?) towards books
- i think those dramas from Jenab and Salimah are quite unnecessary
- the ending parts are quite rushing and i wish there could be more Shafique and Sofea before the story ends
January 29, 2025
Bought this book after randomly browsing the shelf for a light read on my Mummy me time, finished it in a total of ~3.5h reading time.
I’ve always been a sucker for cringey romance books, so no surprise that my tears were falling down at the end of the book.
The story somehow reminded me of my late MIL, which brought back memories of grieving over her death a few years ago. Also felt that the scenes by Jenab/Salimah were either unnecessary at times, or can at least be expanded a bit more for the suspense and plot (especially the later part of the story).
Never read the author’s prior books and novels so can’t compare the plot lines. But otherwise it was a fun read so kudos!
I’ve always been a sucker for cringey romance books, so no surprise that my tears were falling down at the end of the book.
The story somehow reminded me of my late MIL, which brought back memories of grieving over her death a few years ago. Also felt that the scenes by Jenab/Salimah were either unnecessary at times, or can at least be expanded a bit more for the suspense and plot (especially the later part of the story).
Never read the author’s prior books and novels so can’t compare the plot lines. But otherwise it was a fun read so kudos!
August 5, 2024
As someone who follows closely the author's novels, I would say that the storyline is quite predictable. For the first half, I felt that the story was quite slow, but it was gradually getting better until the end. The theme that is brought up in this novel is quite interesting and keeps me engaged until the last page of this novel.
I started reading all of her novels when I was single and this novel hit me differently as a newlywed. I can emphasize how Sofea felt once the realities hit her. Whether we can strongly stay or leave? That's the choice that we need to make.
I started reading all of her novels when I was single and this novel hit me differently as a newlywed. I can emphasize how Sofea felt once the realities hit her. Whether we can strongly stay or leave? That's the choice that we need to make.
September 20, 2024
norhafsah hamid never disappoints! this book was in my opinion, very cozy yet heavy at the same time. it teaches you how to let go and understand the true meaning of 'nothing lasts forever.' furthermore, it teaches us to have immense Taqwa and to wholeheartedly put our trust in Allah SWT. i always love and appreciate the fact that norhafsah always inserts little prayers and supplications that i may practice in my own life as well!
the romance is really so so RAW and of course, so cutesssyyy <3 loved this book!
the romance is really so so RAW and of course, so cutesssyyy <3 loved this book!
May 4, 2025
Hi,im from malaysia,age 16.baru ja habis baca,and yeahh air mata nd berhenti keluar!the plott is not bad tapi jalan cerita dia 10 out of 10.idk how to say tapii sumpah happy nya dapat blushing nya dapat,sedihnya lagi dapatt.i love this book.this is my firts novel aku pernah baca selama 16 tahun hidup dan nd menyesal and in love la with this book sumpah.mengingat seberapa sakitny cerita dalam buku ni bkin mau nangis lagi and i like it.Thank You for Norhafsah hamid kerana telah mncipta satu novel yang SANGAT BEST
June 21, 2024
I wonder why Sofea or Shafique's family didn't try to show the wedding pictures when he started having symptoms of memory loss. Why do they hide the truth that Sofea is his wife instead? Suddenly the miracle happened and they had a daughter named Zaheerah.
This is the first book by the author that I have read. It's a fast-paced story. I read it in a day. The final chapters are a bit sad but the whole story is predictable.
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