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And the Sun Always Sets
The World Indifferent Is Watching... Mariyum tells the story of her life in a small Pakistani village, of her love of books and learning, and the challenges of living with a father who has given up on his family's future. But the harsh reality of her world suddenly emerges, and she and her soul mate, Faisal, must embark on a journey to escape the corruption and oppression of their community-to live by their own merits and on their own terms. Their path is full of treachery, deceit, and more obstacles than they imagined, and they soon discover that it may not be their destiny to live by their own decisions in this modern world. In And the Sun Always Sets, a suspenseful and romantic tale, Mariyum and Faisal eventually decide to take desperate measures in order to be together...no matter what the cost.
- GenresRomance
204 pages, Paperback
First published April 10, 2014
2 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Danny Odato
9 books17 followersBorn in Italy in 1953, Danny Odato, a father of four, had to provide for his family at a young age instead of following his dream of writing. With The Witch’s Revenge, his debut novel, his dream has finally come true.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 17, 2014
I won this book on Goodreads. Looked forward to reading it.
We forget how wonderful we have it here in America.This is a book of young love sort of a Romeo and Juliet, but in our time. This takes place in a time and culture not tof years gone by but of today. Many of us do not understand how different some cultures are from our own.
We meet Mariyum a young Pakistan teenager. She is telling us of her life in a small Pakistani village. Life there is by who you know and where your family stands in the eyes of others. She loves books and learning but not of this is in her favor. She can no longer to to school, because of finances and her father who has lost favor with his family. She has had to leave school and work in the cotton fields with her older sister. Life is very hard for them and their two other sisters and mother. Life is not
easy for girls. They have not say in their life's.
Mariyum has meet her soul mate in Faisal. Who also is not financially well of. Their plan is to runaway from the depravity and domination that rules their lives. They have meet a block against them in everything they want in their life's.
Danny Odato has written one thought provoking book.
I found this to be a very emotional book. It will hold you right from the beginning
We forget how wonderful we have it here in America.This is a book of young love sort of a Romeo and Juliet, but in our time. This takes place in a time and culture not tof years gone by but of today. Many of us do not understand how different some cultures are from our own.
We meet Mariyum a young Pakistan teenager. She is telling us of her life in a small Pakistani village. Life there is by who you know and where your family stands in the eyes of others. She loves books and learning but not of this is in her favor. She can no longer to to school, because of finances and her father who has lost favor with his family. She has had to leave school and work in the cotton fields with her older sister. Life is very hard for them and their two other sisters and mother. Life is not
easy for girls. They have not say in their life's.
Mariyum has meet her soul mate in Faisal. Who also is not financially well of. Their plan is to runaway from the depravity and domination that rules their lives. They have meet a block against them in everything they want in their life's.
Danny Odato has written one thought provoking book.
I found this to be a very emotional book. It will hold you right from the beginning
July 21, 2014
‘And The Sun Always Sets’ by Danny Odato is one of those books that directly touches your heart and leaves a long lasting impression. The author really deserves compliments for writing such a fine piece of heart touching tale. This book certainly deserves all five stars.
This book is about Mariyam (an ordinary Pakistani girl with no extraordinary qualities) and her soul mate Faisal. It is about their journey to live by their own merits and on their own terms in a world of corruption and oppression. The story is based in a small village in Pakistan where women are still not treated with the respect they deserve. The story brings light on the struggle by society in this village to accept new modes of living. The women characters of this story are being presented very subtly and delicately by a series of external contrasts and counterpoints between older and younger women, and also between different class values. The story is also presented through a series of symbols which reflect or suggest the inner conflicts of the women protagonists themselves, who, although they are markers of change, are at the same time aware of the devastation such a change might bring. Most importantly, the book mirrors the bafflement of a traditional, largely male society, in face-to-face encounter with the new notions of selfhood, and particularly, of womanhood.
‘And The Sun Always Sets’ is a world of commoners and ordinary folk. However, many of the characters of this book possess extraordinary qualities that lend themselves to the very stuff of Odato’s art. Not all the characters are mild and vague about their future. We have Mariyam and Faisal, who hold dynamic notions of themselves, and in wanting to achieve their private goals, which are opposed to the norms of the society, they fail. The characters of both Mariyam and Faisal have been portrayed authentically by the author. Mariyam is placed carefully in the book, by a number of minor portraits of women, who, by contrasting with her in various ways, provide the reader with a reasonably complete picture of women in an orthodox milieu of Pakistani society. The core of the novel examines Mariyam’s attempt to assert her independence and her failure in this. The most interesting aspect of Mariyam’s character is the depiction of her struggle in searching her self-definition. Her father assigned her a secondary place and kept her there with such subtlety and cunning that she herself began to lose all her independence, her individuality, stature and strength. However, it is her struggle against her own father that defines her role in the story.
The stuff in this fiction is life as it is lived on the road, in market and homes. The individuals merge into society without much ado, implying a philosophical acceptance. This amounts to the traditional emphasis on the community, which is the ultimate principle in governing the destiny of individuals. It seems that the author had a very clear idea of what he wished to achieve in this novel, and it is certainly one of his most tightly structured work. This novel is also unusual in having so definite a social message. Mariyam, the main protagonist of this work, provides the main perspective and point of view in the novel. The author presents her as rebellious, but in the end, too powerless to subvert.
(I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.)
Read more on
http://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2014/07...
This book is about Mariyam (an ordinary Pakistani girl with no extraordinary qualities) and her soul mate Faisal. It is about their journey to live by their own merits and on their own terms in a world of corruption and oppression. The story is based in a small village in Pakistan where women are still not treated with the respect they deserve. The story brings light on the struggle by society in this village to accept new modes of living. The women characters of this story are being presented very subtly and delicately by a series of external contrasts and counterpoints between older and younger women, and also between different class values. The story is also presented through a series of symbols which reflect or suggest the inner conflicts of the women protagonists themselves, who, although they are markers of change, are at the same time aware of the devastation such a change might bring. Most importantly, the book mirrors the bafflement of a traditional, largely male society, in face-to-face encounter with the new notions of selfhood, and particularly, of womanhood.
‘And The Sun Always Sets’ is a world of commoners and ordinary folk. However, many of the characters of this book possess extraordinary qualities that lend themselves to the very stuff of Odato’s art. Not all the characters are mild and vague about their future. We have Mariyam and Faisal, who hold dynamic notions of themselves, and in wanting to achieve their private goals, which are opposed to the norms of the society, they fail. The characters of both Mariyam and Faisal have been portrayed authentically by the author. Mariyam is placed carefully in the book, by a number of minor portraits of women, who, by contrasting with her in various ways, provide the reader with a reasonably complete picture of women in an orthodox milieu of Pakistani society. The core of the novel examines Mariyam’s attempt to assert her independence and her failure in this. The most interesting aspect of Mariyam’s character is the depiction of her struggle in searching her self-definition. Her father assigned her a secondary place and kept her there with such subtlety and cunning that she herself began to lose all her independence, her individuality, stature and strength. However, it is her struggle against her own father that defines her role in the story.
The stuff in this fiction is life as it is lived on the road, in market and homes. The individuals merge into society without much ado, implying a philosophical acceptance. This amounts to the traditional emphasis on the community, which is the ultimate principle in governing the destiny of individuals. It seems that the author had a very clear idea of what he wished to achieve in this novel, and it is certainly one of his most tightly structured work. This novel is also unusual in having so definite a social message. Mariyam, the main protagonist of this work, provides the main perspective and point of view in the novel. The author presents her as rebellious, but in the end, too powerless to subvert.
(I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.)
Read more on
http://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2014/07...
June 16, 2014
Mariyum is a young Pakistani girl with big dreams. In her little village, girls receive little formal education. Still, she reads everything she can get her hands on. She is particularly struck by the story of Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet”, in which two young lovers succumb to the odds against them, with their lives ending in tragedy.
Faisal, a childhood friend of Mariyum's, becomes orphaned at a young age. Still, the ambitious boy finds odd jobs, and eventually practically takes over a local tea shop for its aging owner, Shakoor. He and Mariyum find ways to meet and visit with each other, despite their society's strict rules about girls and boys socializing together unchaperoned. As the two friends grow older and become young adults, they come to the realization that they truly are in love with one another.
Trouble begins for the two when Murad, the oldest son of the most influential family in the area decides he wants Mariyum for himself. How do you defend yourself when even the local police will do whatever the wealthy family wants? Faisal hatches a plan, to escape to the big city together, before Murad can claim Mariyum for life. Will these two young lovers make it in a harsh world, or will they, like the characters in Mariyum's favorite story, be undone by the culture they live in?
Author Danny Odato self-published this novel through Outskirts Press. While the story of Mariyum and Faisal is fictional, the writer's goal was to help Western readers understand some of the hardships faced by the common people of the Eastern world. He is especially concerned about women's rights. The story was compelling, and I found myself rooting for these two young people as the story progressed. Odato was born in Italy, and sometimes the wording of the story is a little different than what native English speakers may be used to. However, I thought overall this added to the plot, rather than detracting from it. After all, we are looking into the lives of two people who are not native English speakers. How they might talk and think would indeed be different!
I truly enjoyed this book, even if it was a bit sad at times. Danny Odato is the author of other books, including “The Witch's Revenge”. I would definitely pursue reading more of his works, having read this one.
The book, which is fictional, was published in 2014. ISBN #9781478728726. Suggested retail price in the United States is $13.95.
Faisal, a childhood friend of Mariyum's, becomes orphaned at a young age. Still, the ambitious boy finds odd jobs, and eventually practically takes over a local tea shop for its aging owner, Shakoor. He and Mariyum find ways to meet and visit with each other, despite their society's strict rules about girls and boys socializing together unchaperoned. As the two friends grow older and become young adults, they come to the realization that they truly are in love with one another.
Trouble begins for the two when Murad, the oldest son of the most influential family in the area decides he wants Mariyum for himself. How do you defend yourself when even the local police will do whatever the wealthy family wants? Faisal hatches a plan, to escape to the big city together, before Murad can claim Mariyum for life. Will these two young lovers make it in a harsh world, or will they, like the characters in Mariyum's favorite story, be undone by the culture they live in?
Author Danny Odato self-published this novel through Outskirts Press. While the story of Mariyum and Faisal is fictional, the writer's goal was to help Western readers understand some of the hardships faced by the common people of the Eastern world. He is especially concerned about women's rights. The story was compelling, and I found myself rooting for these two young people as the story progressed. Odato was born in Italy, and sometimes the wording of the story is a little different than what native English speakers may be used to. However, I thought overall this added to the plot, rather than detracting from it. After all, we are looking into the lives of two people who are not native English speakers. How they might talk and think would indeed be different!
I truly enjoyed this book, even if it was a bit sad at times. Danny Odato is the author of other books, including “The Witch's Revenge”. I would definitely pursue reading more of his works, having read this one.
The book, which is fictional, was published in 2014. ISBN #9781478728726. Suggested retail price in the United States is $13.95.
December 15, 2015
I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads giveaway. I was intrigued by the story of young lovers in Pakistan trying to overcome the obstacles that keep them apart.
Mariyum is a bright girl and avid reader who is unable to attend secondary school and get the education she desperately desires due to family circumstances. Her father has all but abandoned his wife and four daughters in his disappointment at not having a son. He undermines the family's position in their small village by drinking and whoring, which are strictly forbidden, until his own family disowns. He deals with this blow by being physically abusive to his wife and children on the rare occasions when he's at home and not out seeking his own base pleasures.
Faisal has also been dealt a harsh blow: his parents have died and left him with nothing but his wits to support himself. He finds work with the kindly owner of a local tea shop, but yearns to open his own restaurant someday.
Childhood friends, Mariyum and Faisal soon realize that they are in love and want to marry. But Mariyum's father has promised his beautiful and intelligent daughter to Murad, the spoiled son of the local landlord. Murad is a bully and brute who desires Mariyum for her beauty alone. Desperate to avoid marriage to Murad, Mariyum and Faisal run away to seek their fortune in the big city. But the rigid male-dominated society in Pakistan, combined with a system steeped in greed and corruption, make it impossible for the young lovers to achieve their dream.
While the story is intriguing and the details of life for the average Pakistani kept me reading, the events were predictable. The only part that surprised me was the climax, which I found shocking and rather over the top.
The writing also made this a difficult read for me. The prose is simplistic to the point of being vapid, and the author overuses repetition, of names, places, titles, etc., to the point where I was forced to skip passages that gave me the same information four or five times.
A somewhat likable story, but definitely not the best read I've ever had.
Mariyum is a bright girl and avid reader who is unable to attend secondary school and get the education she desperately desires due to family circumstances. Her father has all but abandoned his wife and four daughters in his disappointment at not having a son. He undermines the family's position in their small village by drinking and whoring, which are strictly forbidden, until his own family disowns. He deals with this blow by being physically abusive to his wife and children on the rare occasions when he's at home and not out seeking his own base pleasures.
Faisal has also been dealt a harsh blow: his parents have died and left him with nothing but his wits to support himself. He finds work with the kindly owner of a local tea shop, but yearns to open his own restaurant someday.
Childhood friends, Mariyum and Faisal soon realize that they are in love and want to marry. But Mariyum's father has promised his beautiful and intelligent daughter to Murad, the spoiled son of the local landlord. Murad is a bully and brute who desires Mariyum for her beauty alone. Desperate to avoid marriage to Murad, Mariyum and Faisal run away to seek their fortune in the big city. But the rigid male-dominated society in Pakistan, combined with a system steeped in greed and corruption, make it impossible for the young lovers to achieve their dream.
While the story is intriguing and the details of life for the average Pakistani kept me reading, the events were predictable. The only part that surprised me was the climax, which I found shocking and rather over the top.
The writing also made this a difficult read for me. The prose is simplistic to the point of being vapid, and the author overuses repetition, of names, places, titles, etc., to the point where I was forced to skip passages that gave me the same information four or five times.
A somewhat likable story, but definitely not the best read I've ever had.
June 16, 2014
I am going to start this review with part of the courtesy interview I was sent by Outskirtspress.
"What is your book about?
Its about two teens in love who try to get married but the society has their own mentality and cult against liberation, therefore soon they discover deceit, and more obstacles then they imagined, and they soon discover that it may not be their destiny to live by their own decisions in this modern world.
Why did you decide to write it?
To send a message to the world, in what condition women in this country are living and how they are treated.
What is special about your book? What differentiates it from other books in the same catagory?
My book talks about the real life these people are living in. It shows in tangent detail how hard it is to have rights if any, for women. It shows the undisputed leadership of the macho man regardless of his leadership quality. It shows the raw life of humans who are treated like animals."
Do you plan to publish more?
Yes, I am coming up with a few other books which are really pieces of art always with the same goal in mind which is Women's rights.
I have read and reviewed two other of Danny Odato's books- The Witches Revenge and The Evil Is In The Ice. Both are very good books--But I really think he has outdone himself with And the Sun Always Sets.
It is again a short book but very much to the point--there are women around the world who are still treated as second class citizens. It reads almost like Romeo & Juliet those star crossed lovers. I REALLY think that any woman (or men who love them) should read this book-it is an eye opener. It is difficult to believe that this still goes on in our world today. 10 Stars!!
And the Sun Always Sets
"What is your book about?
Its about two teens in love who try to get married but the society has their own mentality and cult against liberation, therefore soon they discover deceit, and more obstacles then they imagined, and they soon discover that it may not be their destiny to live by their own decisions in this modern world.
Why did you decide to write it?
To send a message to the world, in what condition women in this country are living and how they are treated.
What is special about your book? What differentiates it from other books in the same catagory?
My book talks about the real life these people are living in. It shows in tangent detail how hard it is to have rights if any, for women. It shows the undisputed leadership of the macho man regardless of his leadership quality. It shows the raw life of humans who are treated like animals."
Do you plan to publish more?
Yes, I am coming up with a few other books which are really pieces of art always with the same goal in mind which is Women's rights.
I have read and reviewed two other of Danny Odato's books- The Witches Revenge and The Evil Is In The Ice. Both are very good books--But I really think he has outdone himself with And the Sun Always Sets.
It is again a short book but very much to the point--there are women around the world who are still treated as second class citizens. It reads almost like Romeo & Juliet those star crossed lovers. I REALLY think that any woman (or men who love them) should read this book-it is an eye opener. It is difficult to believe that this still goes on in our world today. 10 Stars!!
And the Sun Always Sets
August 23, 2015
I just finished Danny Odato's book which was a quick and very good read with well-developed characters and stark reality. It brought the message home that “Romeo and Juliet “relationships were not just prevalent in Elizabethan times and prior, but are alive and well in underdeveloped countries in the 21st century. Mariyum and Faisal's story is contemporary in the global scope of things.
Even though the ending was far from what I would have liked to have seen, I thought it was an appropriate one. A good ending would not have given the truth to what is going on in other parts of our world. It was inevitable that a young and powerless couple with no money and no support could get married. That would have made for a fairy tale and not the important statement that Odato intended to deliver to his audience. The promotional material sent with the Goodreads First Reader's copy of this intriguing and thought-provoking story was quite transparent. Given the setting of a small village in Pakistan with very traditional values and even more entrenched ideas of women's role in society Faisal and Mariyum were doomed from the start. Hopefully, in the not-to-distant future, the Mariyum and Faisals of the world will be allowed to marry and social injustice towards women will be diminished. It won't happen overnight and it won't just happen with the help of people in high places. It will only happen with efforts along all class lines; from those in government to...yes, you guessed it, “us”.
Even though the ending was far from what I would have liked to have seen, I thought it was an appropriate one. A good ending would not have given the truth to what is going on in other parts of our world. It was inevitable that a young and powerless couple with no money and no support could get married. That would have made for a fairy tale and not the important statement that Odato intended to deliver to his audience. The promotional material sent with the Goodreads First Reader's copy of this intriguing and thought-provoking story was quite transparent. Given the setting of a small village in Pakistan with very traditional values and even more entrenched ideas of women's role in society Faisal and Mariyum were doomed from the start. Hopefully, in the not-to-distant future, the Mariyum and Faisals of the world will be allowed to marry and social injustice towards women will be diminished. It won't happen overnight and it won't just happen with the help of people in high places. It will only happen with efforts along all class lines; from those in government to...yes, you guessed it, “us”.
June 24, 2014
AND THE SUN ALWAYS SETS by Danny Odato is an interesting Fiction/Suspense/Romance set in Pakistan. It is for readers 16 and older. A very compelling, thought-provoking tale of two teens in love with families who do not want them together, each family for their own reasons. They are thwarted on very corner by society, culture, their parents, deceit, treachery, corruption, and obstacles they find in the modern world, as well as oppression. Well written, with compelling characters. The storyline is interesting, well thought out, and told with emotion.
Women, have none or very few rights, even in a modern world in Pakistan. The author has captured this, and so much more. While, I had no idea of such tragedy, I totally understand the turmoil, struggle and discovered so much from just reading "AND THE SUN ALWAYS SETS".
A suspenseful but romantic tale of two teens,their decision and their destiny. Taking their own fate into their own hands. Love can or will last forever for Mariyum and Faisal. I was in awe at the ending for these two teens. Thought-provoking and very emotional and compelling. A wonderful read. I enjoyed how the author brought so much into the tale of these two teens with his written and the way he told their story. Much emotion involved in this tale. Please, beware, this tale has some very intense moments, with a very intense ending. Well done! Received for an honest review from the author.
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: MILD (However, has intense moments)
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Women, have none or very few rights, even in a modern world in Pakistan. The author has captured this, and so much more. While, I had no idea of such tragedy, I totally understand the turmoil, struggle and discovered so much from just reading "AND THE SUN ALWAYS SETS".
A suspenseful but romantic tale of two teens,their decision and their destiny. Taking their own fate into their own hands. Love can or will last forever for Mariyum and Faisal. I was in awe at the ending for these two teens. Thought-provoking and very emotional and compelling. A wonderful read. I enjoyed how the author brought so much into the tale of these two teens with his written and the way he told their story. Much emotion involved in this tale. Please, beware, this tale has some very intense moments, with a very intense ending. Well done! Received for an honest review from the author.
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: MILD (However, has intense moments)
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
May 1, 2014
Nothing Short Of Beautiful!
If drama, passion, and romance are what you seek in a book, "and the sun always sets" is the book meant for you. The story is about Mariyum, the protagonist, who talks about her life in a small Pakistani village. She has immense love for books and learning, but nothing seems to be in her favour. She gives up the hope of studying further after primary school considering the family's financial condition and an alcoholic father.
As the story progresses, she meets her soul mate, Faisal, with whom she plans her getaway to flee from depravity and domination. The escape is not a bed of roses, and they together face a lot of betrayal, sham, amongst other things. Difficult times like these make them vulnerable, but the spirit of freedom and self-determination keep Mariyam and Faisal together. The story is indeed very compelling and emotionally gripping. The story is profoundly evocative and substantive. It will keep you hooked until the very end.
Danny Odato has undeniably written a sensitive and thought-provoking story in a brilliant manner. The blend of different human emotions clubbed with anticipation, romance, action, and drama makes it an even more interesting read! So, if you want to curl up and be with a book that keeps you engaged for hours together, this is THE ONE!
If drama, passion, and romance are what you seek in a book, "and the sun always sets" is the book meant for you. The story is about Mariyum, the protagonist, who talks about her life in a small Pakistani village. She has immense love for books and learning, but nothing seems to be in her favour. She gives up the hope of studying further after primary school considering the family's financial condition and an alcoholic father.
As the story progresses, she meets her soul mate, Faisal, with whom she plans her getaway to flee from depravity and domination. The escape is not a bed of roses, and they together face a lot of betrayal, sham, amongst other things. Difficult times like these make them vulnerable, but the spirit of freedom and self-determination keep Mariyam and Faisal together. The story is indeed very compelling and emotionally gripping. The story is profoundly evocative and substantive. It will keep you hooked until the very end.
Danny Odato has undeniably written a sensitive and thought-provoking story in a brilliant manner. The blend of different human emotions clubbed with anticipation, romance, action, and drama makes it an even more interesting read! So, if you want to curl up and be with a book that keeps you engaged for hours together, this is THE ONE!
June 25, 2014
I don't normally get emotionally invested in a book. Sure, I enjoy reading them, but very few books really tug at my emotions. This book was different. This one had me bawling at the end. It is one of the best books I have read in the last few years.
And The Sun Always Sets by Danny Odato tells the story of Mariyum, a Pakistani girl who falls in love with a boy named Faisal. Facing challenges that include poverty, a father who has given up on his family, a local bully from a prominent family, and a culture that restricts the rights of women, this young couple fights for any chance to stay together, no matter what the sacrifice.
That author is very concerned with human rights and uses his books as a way to tell people about the atrocities that are happening around the world. While this was a frequent them in this book, the story was still very hopeful. Just a little bit of change can make a huge difference.
I really got drawn into this book. I was able to sympathize with their problems and it made me so sad that there are people in this world who face similar situations. This book is definitely worth taking the time to read and I look forward to reading more books by Danny Odato.
I received a copy of this book for review purposes through the Goodreads First Reads program. All opinions are my own. My review of this book first appeared on Momsicals.blogspot.com.
And The Sun Always Sets by Danny Odato tells the story of Mariyum, a Pakistani girl who falls in love with a boy named Faisal. Facing challenges that include poverty, a father who has given up on his family, a local bully from a prominent family, and a culture that restricts the rights of women, this young couple fights for any chance to stay together, no matter what the sacrifice.
That author is very concerned with human rights and uses his books as a way to tell people about the atrocities that are happening around the world. While this was a frequent them in this book, the story was still very hopeful. Just a little bit of change can make a huge difference.
I really got drawn into this book. I was able to sympathize with their problems and it made me so sad that there are people in this world who face similar situations. This book is definitely worth taking the time to read and I look forward to reading more books by Danny Odato.
I received a copy of this book for review purposes through the Goodreads First Reads program. All opinions are my own. My review of this book first appeared on Momsicals.blogspot.com.
December 6, 2016
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
It is difficult for me to describe this book though I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It is a modern day Romeo and Juliet, yet in a third world country of Pakistan. It was fascinating, yet depressing to read of the culture of Pakistan and the corruption in government as well as to read of a father who virtually gave up on his family because he had no sons, but 5 daughters. He becomes so down on the family that he wants to sell his daughters off.
The story revolves around Maryum and Faisal who have been childhood friends and later fall in love. Their culture, her family and government bureaucracy make it very difficult for them to marry and they run away to flee the oppression of their small village to go to the big city for help. The ending is tragic though it may change some of the corruption in future years.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in a good love story as well as learning of the culture of another country. The book is very well written and easy to read. I look forward to reading more from this author.
It is difficult for me to describe this book though I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It is a modern day Romeo and Juliet, yet in a third world country of Pakistan. It was fascinating, yet depressing to read of the culture of Pakistan and the corruption in government as well as to read of a father who virtually gave up on his family because he had no sons, but 5 daughters. He becomes so down on the family that he wants to sell his daughters off.
The story revolves around Maryum and Faisal who have been childhood friends and later fall in love. Their culture, her family and government bureaucracy make it very difficult for them to marry and they run away to flee the oppression of their small village to go to the big city for help. The ending is tragic though it may change some of the corruption in future years.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in a good love story as well as learning of the culture of another country. The book is very well written and easy to read. I look forward to reading more from this author.
July 17, 2014
"And The Sun Always Sets", by Danny Odato is a story of two young people in love who will stop at nothing to be together. The location is Pakistan, in a small village, in a male-dominated society. Females have little say or choice in what they say or do, where they live, and with whom. Their marriages are arranged according to the father's whim, his social standing, and what he can gain out of the arranged union.
The central character is Mariyum, the second of four daughters. Though not much importance is given to any of the girls, Mariyam is an optimistic free-thinker, thanks to the many books she has borrowed from others, and largely due to her friend, Faisal. When she refuses to marry her father's choice in a husband for her, she is severely beaten.
The story is a fascinating look at life in a Muslim society.
Though the book was hard at times for me to read, due to the content and subject matter, it nevertheless was hard for me to put down. I am deeply affected by what I read.
I was given a copy of this book, as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
The central character is Mariyum, the second of four daughters. Though not much importance is given to any of the girls, Mariyam is an optimistic free-thinker, thanks to the many books she has borrowed from others, and largely due to her friend, Faisal. When she refuses to marry her father's choice in a husband for her, she is severely beaten.
The story is a fascinating look at life in a Muslim society.
Though the book was hard at times for me to read, due to the content and subject matter, it nevertheless was hard for me to put down. I am deeply affected by what I read.
I was given a copy of this book, as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
July 11, 2014
"And The Sun Always Sets", by Danny Odato is a story of two young people in love who will stop at nothing to be together. The location is Pakistan, in a small village, in a male-dominated society. Females have little say or choice in what they say or do, where they live, and with whom. Their marriages are arranged according to the father's whim, his social standing, and what he can gain out of the arranged union.
The central character is Mariyum, the second of four daughters. Though not much importance is given to any of the girls, Mariyam is an optimistic free-thinker, thanks to the many books she has borrowed from others, and largely due to her friend, Faisal. When she refuses to marry her father's choice in a husband for her, she is severely beaten.
The story is a fascinating look at life in a Muslim society.
Though the book was hard at times for me to read, due to the content and subject matter, it nevertheless was hard for me to put down. I am deeply affected by what I read.
I was given a copy of this book, as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
The central character is Mariyum, the second of four daughters. Though not much importance is given to any of the girls, Mariyam is an optimistic free-thinker, thanks to the many books she has borrowed from others, and largely due to her friend, Faisal. When she refuses to marry her father's choice in a husband for her, she is severely beaten.
The story is a fascinating look at life in a Muslim society.
Though the book was hard at times for me to read, due to the content and subject matter, it nevertheless was hard for me to put down. I am deeply affected by what I read.
I was given a copy of this book, as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
July 24, 2014
At its heart And the Sun Always Sets is a story of love and of a need to branch out into uncharted places when life tries to drag you down. It's the story of two people who ban together in their desire to love and to risk everything to be free of a life of oppression and disparity they live. The story is gripping and emotional, rife with tension and suspense, steeped in drama and romance. It's poignant and brutally authentic as it delves into the dangers and the rewards of fighting for what you believe in... no matter what.
Danny Odato has a talent for storytelling that makes this novel all the more enjoyable as he sucks you into Mariyum and Faisal's quest, running the gamut of emotions from desperate hope to raging anger as the two find themselves battling for their very lives. The story is packed with hair-raising action, deeply emotional drama and a passionate love that just makes you want to smile through the tears. This proved to be a fantastic novel that had me eagerly reading from the very first page until the last.
Danny Odato has a talent for storytelling that makes this novel all the more enjoyable as he sucks you into Mariyum and Faisal's quest, running the gamut of emotions from desperate hope to raging anger as the two find themselves battling for their very lives. The story is packed with hair-raising action, deeply emotional drama and a passionate love that just makes you want to smile through the tears. This proved to be a fantastic novel that had me eagerly reading from the very first page until the last.
July 24, 2014
The path to true love is never smooth but the obstacles these two young people,Mariyum and Faisal,faced in Pakistan were extremely hard.First the laws from generations were upon them and then while trying to bend the laws and escape to freedom they had a bully named Murad chasing them everywhere they went.Their final actions were sad but it seems instrumental for change to begin to happen.That would've made them both very proud since it paves the way for others to have the freedom to choose for themselves.This book made me realize I do appreciate the freedoms I have to be able to wake up,go to work(or not), and look for someone who loves me (not to be told who will love me).We work hard,live our lives, and hope for the best in the end.Best wishes to all the children of Pakistan!May you all be able to have the right to choose in the future!
June 13, 2014
I received this book free from a Goodreads giveaway. I stayed up late last night just to finish it. This is a beautifully written story about a young woman in Pakistan who just wants to spend her life the man she loves. This seems like a simple dream, however she is faced with seemingly impossible obstacles. She has an abusive father who wants to arrange her marriage to someone else for money and status. Being a women, she has few rights and she can't seem to get anyone, anywhere to help her. Mariyum is a strong and determined woman though, and sets off on an adventure in hopes of achieving her dream. I don't want to give anything away, but the ending brought tears to my eyes. You will have to read it yourself to find out why.
June 6, 2014
Awesome--Awesome-Awesome---I loved this book so much. This book tells the story of a girl in a small Pakistan town who is caught
up by the rules of her country that give women no rights and what she wants to do has no significance on her life. her town is run by a gang of thieves--liars and killers and they get whatever and whoever they want. the girl is sold by her father to the worst thug imaginable, but she wants to marry her childhood friend. I should have seen it coming, but the end was such a shock it left me crying my heart out.I wanted to scream NO-NO. I recommend this book to anyone who believes in womans rights.
up by the rules of her country that give women no rights and what she wants to do has no significance on her life. her town is run by a gang of thieves--liars and killers and they get whatever and whoever they want. the girl is sold by her father to the worst thug imaginable, but she wants to marry her childhood friend. I should have seen it coming, but the end was such a shock it left me crying my heart out.I wanted to scream NO-NO. I recommend this book to anyone who believes in womans rights.
July 7, 2014
Beautiful and moving, 'And The Sun Always Sets', leaves you thinking (and feeling) long after you have turned the last page and safely set the book away. More than a love story this opens us to socio-political influences as well as religious ideals that are sometimes simultaneously both powerful and tragic. As lives are touched and forever altered, we journey with a couple through their fight for a good life, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness.
I think 'A.T.S.A.S.' is a great read for anyone who craves an intense story with strong characters. It is well written, quick moving, and even when it's over you won't want it to end!
I think 'A.T.S.A.S.' is a great read for anyone who craves an intense story with strong characters. It is well written, quick moving, and even when it's over you won't want it to end!
June 22, 2014
This is a Romeo and Juliet story taking place in modern Pakistan. It needs to be re-edited as there are places where words are left out and names are entered as Xxx where it seems the author intended to go back and enter information. There are also places where paragraphs are broken into 2 and other minor errors throughout. As for the plot it was a bit too straightforward for me. I would have enjoyed just a bit more mystery and hope instead of the ending being alluded to throughout. Overall though I did enjoy the glimpse into another world and I would consider reading another book by the author. I just wish he had spent a bit more time refining this product.
July 8, 2014
I received this book from Goodreads. As others have previously commented, it is a modern-day Romeo and Juliet story set in Pakistan. The story itself is well-told and I did come to care about the main characters. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the author reflected the female thought process and emotions. The writing is a bit loose and could be tightened up a bit. I was very disturbed by the ending - such a senseless loss. Though the two main characters were facing a lot of obstacles and challenges, I really did not see this coming. I suppose this is a real reflection of what can and does happen today in many parts of the world.
April 24, 2014
Enjoyed this one a lot. The whole time I was reading this book I was thinking it should be made into a movie. Danny Odato is a very accomplished writer. He does a great job developing the characters and story. It was hard to put down this book. The story itself is beautiful and heartrending on an epic scale.
Overall, this was a well-written novel with interesting characters and a compelling storyline. It's themes of human relationships family and romantic love make this a must-read. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt and satisfying book with depth.
Overall, this was a well-written novel with interesting characters and a compelling storyline. It's themes of human relationships family and romantic love make this a must-read. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt and satisfying book with depth.
April 27, 2014
An amazing love story by Danny Odato. I normally finish a book in several sittings but this one was different. This was such a gripping story that I was glued to the couch until I finished the book. Suspense, simplicity, romance, action and drama; this book has it all. It's a story about two young lovers and their struggle to stay together. They live in a Pakistani village where they grow up together, fall in love and then overcome all the social pressures and cultural obstacles. I was thoroughly entertained and highly recommend reading the book.
May 30, 2014
I loved this book! The mirror tones to Romeo & Juliet were perfectly done. The diction and syntax made this book a most favorable one. I have a soft spot for the underdog and a remarkable respect for cleverness. The author was able to take me by surprise and hid his intentions most tactfully.
My only complaint about this book is the way it jumps from first person to third person in the middle of every chapter. It's most distracting. That, however, is a small detail as it does not take away from the story.
I cannot wait to read more work by Danny Odato.
My only complaint about this book is the way it jumps from first person to third person in the middle of every chapter. It's most distracting. That, however, is a small detail as it does not take away from the story.
I cannot wait to read more work by Danny Odato.
July 14, 2014
This is a story of Mariyum and Faisal growing up together and falling in love. Her alcoholic father gave up on his family because he didn't have a son and saw Mariyum as a commodity to use in an arranged marriage. The two young people leave home and meet with many difficulties. I became engaged with these two and wished the best for them. I so didn't want the ending they chose but could understand their desperation. This was a Goodreads giveaway I won and I appreciated the opportunity to read this book.
August 11, 2014
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I thought this story was good but very sad. Not only does the main story portray a country and time where there is great inequality between men and women put also the rich and the poor. I can't imagine being a women in that society and am grateful to have my freedom.
I would have given this book more stars but I didn't feel a connection to any of the characters but rather felt like I was just reading a summary of what happened.
I thought this story was good but very sad. Not only does the main story portray a country and time where there is great inequality between men and women put also the rich and the poor. I can't imagine being a women in that society and am grateful to have my freedom.
I would have given this book more stars but I didn't feel a connection to any of the characters but rather felt like I was just reading a summary of what happened.
July 13, 2014
Reading And The Sun Always Sets was an amazing experience. A well built story about the hardships of lives, of the obstacles that come into everybody's paths and how to overcome them. It was an amazing story with the right bit of suspense and humour associated with it to keep the reader attracted towards the book until the end. I was curious as to know what happened next and why therefore, I would like to suggest this book to all those readers who love romantic stories with a streak of adventure.
July 21, 2014
Reading And The Sun Always Sets was an amazing experience. A well built story about the hardships of lives, of the obstacles that come into everybody's paths and how to overcome them. It was an amazing story with the right bit of suspense and humour associated with it to keep the reader attracted towards the book until the end. I was curious as to know what happened next and why therefore, I would like to suggest this book to all those readers who love romantic stories with a streak of adventure.
April 25, 2014
Let me say that the writer of this book is projecting that people should not be limited by circumstances. The story of these two lovers is a story that is filled with suspense, emotions, and entertainment. You may actually see a tear drop from your eye at one time, while at the other time, you find yourself laughing out loud. Very good combination of the different aspects of literature. Mature reading, Great writing!
June 10, 2014
And The Sun Always Sets by Danny Odato
Goodreads Author
This is a story of Mariyum and Faisal, a teenage couple, living in a third world country.
They grew up in the same village and later years fell in love. The laws and culture of
Pakistan was more than a struggle. They tried to do the right thing , but so much corruption
among police, lawyers and even ordinary citizens. This is a story that grabs you .
You can not put it down. I recommend this book.
Goodreads Author
This is a story of Mariyum and Faisal, a teenage couple, living in a third world country.
They grew up in the same village and later years fell in love. The laws and culture of
Pakistan was more than a struggle. They tried to do the right thing , but so much corruption
among police, lawyers and even ordinary citizens. This is a story that grabs you .
You can not put it down. I recommend this book.
August 17, 2018
This is a tragic story of a young girl and her lover that happens too often in eastern societies, in this case in Pakistan. The book is well-written but I was little distracted by the infiltration of writer's own views about women and religion into the story. I think that the story is compelling enough for the reader to form her/his own opinion about the horrific conditions women have to live through in male-dominated societies. I still think that this is a great book and great story overall.
June 10, 2014
I was lucky enough to win this book in one of the goodreads giveaways. Although some of the writing could have used an additional edit, the story line itself was very good. The story is that of the struggle for love and being together for two Pakistani teenagers. With commentary on classism, gender issues, political corruption, and education, it forces the reader to think about all the struggles that people go through on a daily basis.
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