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The Obedient Bow
You are cordially invited into the marriage of
Zoya Iqbal and Idris Qadir
Zoya had a plan in motion to get the life she envisioned until her father forcefully extinguished her hopes of making her dream come true. Determined to return to her life, she set out on a new mission; one that would ensure every suitor in Pakistan rejected her.
Idris, a successful tycoon, was a man of few words, but ensured his was always final. Comfortable in his seat at the head of the table, he intended to run his marriage the same way. Thus, began his search for a wife constrained under his contractual obligations.
Stifled by Idris’ rules, Zoya is forced to live the same fate as her mother. She surrenders her dream and steps into a nightmare where cultural expectations coerce her to become the obedient bou her parents dreamed her to be.
That is until fate handed her a lifeline; a daughter. Zoya, both broken and revived, finds herself in a heartbreaking paradox from which a new dream is born. It is a dream protected by a mother’s love. As her strength grows, she vows to fight for her daughter like no one fought for her.
Under Idris’ watchful eye, she must execute the perfect escape. It is one final desperate mission to liberate herself from the cycle, but she must be willing to break a few rules.
Because if there’s one thing she’ll learn, it is that freedom cannot come by being obedient.
Zoya Iqbal and Idris Qadir
Zoya had a plan in motion to get the life she envisioned until her father forcefully extinguished her hopes of making her dream come true. Determined to return to her life, she set out on a new mission; one that would ensure every suitor in Pakistan rejected her.
Idris, a successful tycoon, was a man of few words, but ensured his was always final. Comfortable in his seat at the head of the table, he intended to run his marriage the same way. Thus, began his search for a wife constrained under his contractual obligations.
Stifled by Idris’ rules, Zoya is forced to live the same fate as her mother. She surrenders her dream and steps into a nightmare where cultural expectations coerce her to become the obedient bou her parents dreamed her to be.
That is until fate handed her a lifeline; a daughter. Zoya, both broken and revived, finds herself in a heartbreaking paradox from which a new dream is born. It is a dream protected by a mother’s love. As her strength grows, she vows to fight for her daughter like no one fought for her.
Under Idris’ watchful eye, she must execute the perfect escape. It is one final desperate mission to liberate herself from the cycle, but she must be willing to break a few rules.
Because if there’s one thing she’ll learn, it is that freedom cannot come by being obedient.
459 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2025
6 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 29, 2025
a little disappointed with the ending even if i “understand” it. it was obvious it was going to happen however, i wish it hadn’t as he was incredibly abusive. it takes a woman many, many attempts to leave an abusive man so maybe she eventually does. i hope so. that would feel empowering, personally.
i understand the sanctity of marriage but she deserves a love that doesn’t leave her with bruises and literal trauma. sure, he can change but you can’t undo the past. his possessiveness and need for control is revolting.
3 stars because i wish we just called a spade a spade sometimes. some things are just glossed over…or maybe i just don’t like subtleties. there are too many speeches about the culture and not enough naming of the things that he has done to her.
i understand the sanctity of marriage but she deserves a love that doesn’t leave her with bruises and literal trauma. sure, he can change but you can’t undo the past. his possessiveness and need for control is revolting.
3 stars because i wish we just called a spade a spade sometimes. some things are just glossed over…or maybe i just don’t like subtleties. there are too many speeches about the culture and not enough naming of the things that he has done to her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2025
My blood pressure was all over the place while reading this book! I waited a whole year for this release, and oh my God, did it keep my mind occupied or what!
The friendship between the girls reminded me so much of the close bonds I have with my own girls. The idea of a tight-knit group is something many of us lose as we grow older, so it felt really warming to see them stick together—through their happiest moments and while navigating life’s hardest trials.
Idris was someone I couldn’t stand in TPB, and it definitely set the stage for TOB! Zoya’s story tells us of the generational abuse women endure at the hands of men, and the internalised misogyny that allows harmful traditions to persist—often at the cost of women’s freedom, health, and lives.
What I especially love is how much I can relate to the way this series reflects so many experiences we’ve either lived or witnessed. We all carry stories within us, and it’s books like these that make us feel seen and connected.
Did it crush my soul? Absolutely. Will I read it again? Without a doubt—because there are still so many generational cycles we’ve yet to break.
The friendship between the girls reminded me so much of the close bonds I have with my own girls. The idea of a tight-knit group is something many of us lose as we grow older, so it felt really warming to see them stick together—through their happiest moments and while navigating life’s hardest trials.
Idris was someone I couldn’t stand in TPB, and it definitely set the stage for TOB! Zoya’s story tells us of the generational abuse women endure at the hands of men, and the internalised misogyny that allows harmful traditions to persist—often at the cost of women’s freedom, health, and lives.
What I especially love is how much I can relate to the way this series reflects so many experiences we’ve either lived or witnessed. We all carry stories within us, and it’s books like these that make us feel seen and connected.
Did it crush my soul? Absolutely. Will I read it again? Without a doubt—because there are still so many generational cycles we’ve yet to break.
August 12, 2025
A heart wrenching read
Zoya Iqbal was born to a traditional Pakistani family, where the men see women as property and nothing more. When her father finds out that she is dating a boy a year older than her, he brings her back to Pakistan and gets her married to Idris. He is volatile and possessive and controls her in every way. When she has enough and finally gets the courage to leave, he realises his mistake. However, will it be enough for Zoya to give him a second chance?
Zoya Iqbal was born to a traditional Pakistani family, where the men see women as property and nothing more. When her father finds out that she is dating a boy a year older than her, he brings her back to Pakistan and gets her married to Idris. He is volatile and possessive and controls her in every way. When she has enough and finally gets the courage to leave, he realises his mistake. However, will it be enough for Zoya to give him a second chance?
April 5, 2025
The Obedient Bow has healed me in the best way possible and despite it making me cry so much more than the perfect bow, I have enjoyed reading and am so sad to have finished it!! It has now become a new all time favourite for me this year! 🥹❤️
I will stand by Zoya in her saying that "We are breaking free from this generational cycle because in a life meant for happiness and free there is no room to be obedient" 🥹🥹
I will stand by Zoya in her saying that "We are breaking free from this generational cycle because in a life meant for happiness and free there is no room to be obedient" 🥹🥹
August 16, 2025
I really really liked the first book and how it ended. I finished this book in one setting too but I’m afraid I don’t like the fact that she stayed with him.
Okay I get that culture made him misogynistic and he had very very backwards views. But like he had no redeeming qualities until the very end when he promised to change and did his love confession!! This man had left bruises on her, had forcefully confined her to his home, had kicked her out because he knew she had nowhere to go, psychologically abused her and then they have their happy ending? Oh and he committed marital rape on their wedding night when she clearly said no and used her as a fleshlight throughout their marriage. ZOYA WAS SCARED OF HIM FOR 14 YEARS, SHE COULDN’T SPEAK TO ANYONE WITHOUT HIM HAVING A HISSY FIT
I’m sorry but this man was worse than Yousef, how on earth are people comparing the both? The only crime this man didn’t do was cheat. Also it is clearly shown that Yousef and Idris are friends so they are both dipshits
If the author wanted these two to end up together, she should have made Idris more likeable and less abusive because what the hell, this man treated her like a prisoner.
From her first book, I thought her books were going to have prominent messages. This book had the FMC get back together with her abusive POS husband
Okay I get that culture made him misogynistic and he had very very backwards views. But like he had no redeeming qualities until the very end when he promised to change and did his love confession!! This man had left bruises on her, had forcefully confined her to his home, had kicked her out because he knew she had nowhere to go, psychologically abused her and then they have their happy ending? Oh and he committed marital rape on their wedding night when she clearly said no and used her as a fleshlight throughout their marriage. ZOYA WAS SCARED OF HIM FOR 14 YEARS, SHE COULDN’T SPEAK TO ANYONE WITHOUT HIM HAVING A HISSY FIT
I’m sorry but this man was worse than Yousef, how on earth are people comparing the both? The only crime this man didn’t do was cheat. Also it is clearly shown that Yousef and Idris are friends so they are both dipshits
If the author wanted these two to end up together, she should have made Idris more likeable and less abusive because what the hell, this man treated her like a prisoner.
From her first book, I thought her books were going to have prominent messages. This book had the FMC get back together with her abusive POS husband
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
Really enjoyed this book, but the first book was my favourite.
May 31, 2025
Raw. Vulnerable. A powerful voice for women.
It’s taken me six days to process this book and honestly, I’m still reeling. If you don’t read any other reviews, just read this: READ THIS BOOK. This is women’s empowerment done right.
We live in a time where a lot of books feel the same: predictable, recycled, and safe. But this book breaks through all of that. The writing is exceptional. The way the author captures emotion is unreal. I was angry. I cried. I felt heartbroken. I smiled. I felt everything Zoya felt. To write like this is a rare gift, and for that alone, this book deserves five stars. But there are so many more reasons, so buckle up.
Let’s start with Zoya. I’ve never loved a female main character like I loved her. Her vulnerability broke me, and her strength took my breath away. Her journey and transformation were the heart of this story. It didn’t rely on anyone else. It wasn’t her father’s approval that made her grow. It wasn’t Idris’s tolerance that gave her freedom. It was her. Her strength. Her choice to step out into the world and become a woman on her own terms. That’s what made her so powerful.
And then there’s Idris. Oh, Idris. The love-hate relationship you have with him as a reader is intense. His tender moments make you fall for him. But when he’s angry? He’s terrifying. The tension in those scenes had my heart pounding. I was scared for Zoya, because I knew what was coming. His character was written with so much depth. It was chilling and brilliant at the same time. Watching his arc play out was both satisfying and gut-wrenching.
After finishing The Perfect Bow, I dove into the author’s other works. When I started Falling for Heartbreak, I braced myself. I knew the abuse in The Obedient Bow would be real, raw, and honest and it was. Samirah didn’t hold back. The push and pull, the pain of loving someone who could be so dark, was written with heartbreaking accuracy. It made me understand how easy it is to fall into that cycle and why it’s so hard to leave. The trauma bonding, the brief moments of love mixed into the abuse weren’t romanticised or excused. They were laid bare. And walking with Zoya through that pain, and watching her rise from it, was unforgettable. I’m already nervous for The Silent Bow because I know Nazir is going to be just as well-written.
The friendship between the Bows deserves its own praise. Their sisterhood is beautiful and powerful. Despite their differences, they stand together. They lift each other up. It’s the purest example of women supporting women.
Zoya’s growth was incredible. She wasn’t perfect. she made mistakes, and she owned them. That’s what made her so real. Her relationship with her mother-in-law was especially moving. It wasn’t about one being right and the other wrong. they were both stuck in a cycle they didn’t choose. Seeing them find understanding brought me to tears.
This book is deeply triggering. It dives into serious and sensitive topics, and it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities. Samirah handles these themes with incredible care. always respectful, but never sugarcoated. The writing stays raw and real from start to finish.
The scenes of abuse are graphic. They’re not romanticised. They’re not softened. They’re brutal, uncomfortable, and at times painful to read. but that’s exactly what makes them so powerful. You don’t just witness Zoya’s pain. you feel it. You carry it with her.
Their wedding night… there are no words. It was disgusting. Horrific. My heart shattered for Zoya in that moment. And yet, that heartbreak is what makes her strength all the more powerful. This book doesn’t just tell a story. It makes you live it. And that’s what stays with you long after the final page.
And her love for her children… It was everything. They gave her strength. They gave her purpose. The scenes with her kids showed a softer side of her that grounded her even more. It reminded me that for so many women, their children are the reason they survive.
I didn’t think anything could top The Perfect Bow, but I was wrong. The Obedient Bow was completely different. its tone, its storytelling, its impact. It wasn’t a repeat. It was something deeper.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s my favorite read of the year. I’m counting down the days until Book 3. And even if we have to wait another year, this one was worth every second.
To Samirah if you’re reading this, you should be incredibly proud. Thank you for giving voice to a kind of heartbreak that’s so often silenced. You’ve made women feel seen and heard in a way that will echo for generations. This is what empowerment looks like. I will always be amazed at how one person can speak for thousands and just as grateful that you did.
It’s taken me six days to process this book and honestly, I’m still reeling. If you don’t read any other reviews, just read this: READ THIS BOOK. This is women’s empowerment done right.
We live in a time where a lot of books feel the same: predictable, recycled, and safe. But this book breaks through all of that. The writing is exceptional. The way the author captures emotion is unreal. I was angry. I cried. I felt heartbroken. I smiled. I felt everything Zoya felt. To write like this is a rare gift, and for that alone, this book deserves five stars. But there are so many more reasons, so buckle up.
Let’s start with Zoya. I’ve never loved a female main character like I loved her. Her vulnerability broke me, and her strength took my breath away. Her journey and transformation were the heart of this story. It didn’t rely on anyone else. It wasn’t her father’s approval that made her grow. It wasn’t Idris’s tolerance that gave her freedom. It was her. Her strength. Her choice to step out into the world and become a woman on her own terms. That’s what made her so powerful.
And then there’s Idris. Oh, Idris. The love-hate relationship you have with him as a reader is intense. His tender moments make you fall for him. But when he’s angry? He’s terrifying. The tension in those scenes had my heart pounding. I was scared for Zoya, because I knew what was coming. His character was written with so much depth. It was chilling and brilliant at the same time. Watching his arc play out was both satisfying and gut-wrenching.
After finishing The Perfect Bow, I dove into the author’s other works. When I started Falling for Heartbreak, I braced myself. I knew the abuse in The Obedient Bow would be real, raw, and honest and it was. Samirah didn’t hold back. The push and pull, the pain of loving someone who could be so dark, was written with heartbreaking accuracy. It made me understand how easy it is to fall into that cycle and why it’s so hard to leave. The trauma bonding, the brief moments of love mixed into the abuse weren’t romanticised or excused. They were laid bare. And walking with Zoya through that pain, and watching her rise from it, was unforgettable. I’m already nervous for The Silent Bow because I know Nazir is going to be just as well-written.
The friendship between the Bows deserves its own praise. Their sisterhood is beautiful and powerful. Despite their differences, they stand together. They lift each other up. It’s the purest example of women supporting women.
Zoya’s growth was incredible. She wasn’t perfect. she made mistakes, and she owned them. That’s what made her so real. Her relationship with her mother-in-law was especially moving. It wasn’t about one being right and the other wrong. they were both stuck in a cycle they didn’t choose. Seeing them find understanding brought me to tears.
This book is deeply triggering. It dives into serious and sensitive topics, and it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities. Samirah handles these themes with incredible care. always respectful, but never sugarcoated. The writing stays raw and real from start to finish.
The scenes of abuse are graphic. They’re not romanticised. They’re not softened. They’re brutal, uncomfortable, and at times painful to read. but that’s exactly what makes them so powerful. You don’t just witness Zoya’s pain. you feel it. You carry it with her.
Their wedding night… there are no words. It was disgusting. Horrific. My heart shattered for Zoya in that moment. And yet, that heartbreak is what makes her strength all the more powerful. This book doesn’t just tell a story. It makes you live it. And that’s what stays with you long after the final page.
And her love for her children… It was everything. They gave her strength. They gave her purpose. The scenes with her kids showed a softer side of her that grounded her even more. It reminded me that for so many women, their children are the reason they survive.
I didn’t think anything could top The Perfect Bow, but I was wrong. The Obedient Bow was completely different. its tone, its storytelling, its impact. It wasn’t a repeat. It was something deeper.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s my favorite read of the year. I’m counting down the days until Book 3. And even if we have to wait another year, this one was worth every second.
To Samirah if you’re reading this, you should be incredibly proud. Thank you for giving voice to a kind of heartbreak that’s so often silenced. You’ve made women feel seen and heard in a way that will echo for generations. This is what empowerment looks like. I will always be amazed at how one person can speak for thousands and just as grateful that you did.
May 25, 2025
The Obedient Bow by Samirah Zaman Rating: ★★★★☆ Standalone Contemporary South Asian Fiction
“Nothing, because I would be a fool to think the hands that broke me are capable of fixing me. I'll do that on my own.”
This book hurt. And I mean that in the best and worst way possible.
The Obedient Bow is a powerful, nuanced, and emotionally grueling exploration of a marriage built not on love, but on control — and the resilience it takes to survive it, reclaim identity, and find healing. It’s one of those books that doesn’t just tell a story; it reflects the lived reality of far too many women.
What worked:
The forced marriage between Zoya and Idris is heartbreaking to witness. Their wedding night — no sugarcoating — is revolting. It made me sick, and that’s the point. It’s not glorified. It’s not softened. It’s real and raw, and it made me want to scream for Zoya. The dichotomy of loving one side of a man and fearing the other was portrayed with such painful accuracy. The emotional manipulation, the trauma-bonding, the glimmers of tenderness woven through layers of abuse — it’s uncomfortable, but it’s important. This isn’t just cultural. It’s universal. Pain like this crosses all lines. Zoya’s arc is the heart of this book. Watching her reclaim herself after everything — the pregnancies, the losses, the abuse, the betrayal — is what kept me going. She becomes whole again, but on her own terms. No one gets to “fix” her. She does that herself. The third pregnancy loss (spoiler) was absolutely devastating. Idris’s reaction was a low point for him, and a moment that showed how deeply broken he still was. That scene stayed with me — the silence, the grief, the cruel words. It felt like real mourning. Not just for the child, but for the hope of what their relationship could have been. And then… the roses. God. That scene destroyed me in a completely different way.Zoya: “Why are you standing like that?” He wore a flustered look as one hand was hidden behind his back. Idris: “I wanted to give you something.” A tinge of pink covered his cheeks as he revealed the present. Zoya: “Roses?” Idris: “Nineteen roses, to be exact. Fourteen for the years we've shared, each one a testament to our vows. One for my love for you. One for each of the children you've given me. And this one,” he said softly, as he touched the single delicate white rose, “this one is for the little one running free in heaven.” Zoya: “Idris—” Idris: “You have carried four of my children. Therefore, you are a mother of four.”I don’t have words. Just tears. This was his redemption moment — not because he became perfect, but because he finally saw her.
What didn’t:
There were moments when the pacing lagged, especially in the middle chapters. I felt like the emotional tension built up beautifully but was delayed a bit too long before the resolution started to unfold. Idris’s shift toward redemption, while satisfying in the final chapters, may feel too sudden or unearned for some readers. It worked for me because it wasn’t clean or complete — but I can understand if others wanted a bit more groundwork.Final thoughts: This is a story about pain, resilience, motherhood, and the quiet strength of women who survive the worst and still choose to stand up again. It’s heavy. It’s triggering. It’s not a romance, not really — it’s about healing.
4/5. Not because it was flawless, but because it mattered. And I’ll be thinking about Zoya for a long, long time.
Trigger warnings: Forced marriage, sexual assault, emotional abuse, miscarriage, grief, PTSD, gender-based violence. Your mental health matters — please read with care.
August 2, 2025
I read typical romance novels majority of the time but you have become one of my favourite author’s. Throughout all your books I’ve read, your ability to capture realistic themes, realistic character thoughts and actions is very impressive and adds to the depth the books have.
I feel like this story could of been taken directly from someone’s life, as is true with your other books also but this is my favourite one so far. I know I definitely have seen parts of myself in other characters of yours but Zoya is who I felt seen with the most, and there truly is a beauty in the connection and comfort of that!
The story is filled with pain, exhaustion, grief, love, hard work, determination, understanding and so much more. Throughout the story your able to peek Idris’ intentions and thoughts, as much as his words originally said he didn’t want love it was clear to the reader (me at least) that love and intimacy was exactly what he was wanting even tho he it expressed it terribly. As much as his character had negatives there was also a light of good to him too, and I think it goes to show that not everyone and everything is black and white, the representation is appreciated. As people we all have good points and bad points. Zoya was beautifully written and showed a true example of human and women’s experience. As children the world is simpler to us, we’re naive, we have dreams and although we know it will take work we don’t understand what it truly takes to make that possible or how life will shape it’s way without caring about what your dreams and wants are. Most of the time dreams aren’t lived out how we thought they would be not meaning we are not happy, dreams change, evolve and that’s ok; at the base of those dreams are our true uninhabited self and although dreams may change what’s important is you honour that version of yourself throughout life -and this story is a true, insightful and touching story of exactly that. I’m so happy how this story ended with the reconciliation of Idris and Zoya and the work they are both putting forward to make their love work. I’m gutted to be leaving her story but I also can’t wait to hear the stories of the remaining bows and hopefully see more glimpses into Zoya’s journey and her and Idris’ life together.
Although these books are more based around a certain culture, your a voice for many within that culture and outside of it too, the stories you’ve told are transcending of culture, religion and country.
Truly beautiful real and empowering! Both the author and the book!
I feel like this story could of been taken directly from someone’s life, as is true with your other books also but this is my favourite one so far. I know I definitely have seen parts of myself in other characters of yours but Zoya is who I felt seen with the most, and there truly is a beauty in the connection and comfort of that!
The story is filled with pain, exhaustion, grief, love, hard work, determination, understanding and so much more. Throughout the story your able to peek Idris’ intentions and thoughts, as much as his words originally said he didn’t want love it was clear to the reader (me at least) that love and intimacy was exactly what he was wanting even tho he it expressed it terribly. As much as his character had negatives there was also a light of good to him too, and I think it goes to show that not everyone and everything is black and white, the representation is appreciated. As people we all have good points and bad points. Zoya was beautifully written and showed a true example of human and women’s experience. As children the world is simpler to us, we’re naive, we have dreams and although we know it will take work we don’t understand what it truly takes to make that possible or how life will shape it’s way without caring about what your dreams and wants are. Most of the time dreams aren’t lived out how we thought they would be not meaning we are not happy, dreams change, evolve and that’s ok; at the base of those dreams are our true uninhabited self and although dreams may change what’s important is you honour that version of yourself throughout life -and this story is a true, insightful and touching story of exactly that. I’m so happy how this story ended with the reconciliation of Idris and Zoya and the work they are both putting forward to make their love work. I’m gutted to be leaving her story but I also can’t wait to hear the stories of the remaining bows and hopefully see more glimpses into Zoya’s journey and her and Idris’ life together.
Although these books are more based around a certain culture, your a voice for many within that culture and outside of it too, the stories you’ve told are transcending of culture, religion and country.
Truly beautiful real and empowering! Both the author and the book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
Raw, authentic, masterpiece. This may be one of the best books I have ever read. I was skeptical about the length of this book because it’s so long but once I started I couldn’t stop and read it in one sitting. I also didnt think it would top the first book but it really did.
I really wish I could dive into the authors mind to ask HOW she wrote something so beautiful, destructive while also being so painfully accurate. There are heavy topics in this and honestly a trigger warning should have been added but the way we live the experiences with Zoya BROKE ME. Theres not a single emotion I didnt feel. It’s a skill to be able to write like this.
Every character had a purpose and you grow to care about all of them. But her portrayal of Zoya and Idris is unmatched. They are written so well that at times it felt like I was reading a true story.
This is a perfect example of how a series should be done because it is far removed from the first book but it also tied together so well.
The obedient bow is a book every woman needs to read. By the end I felt empowered just being a woman.
Its clear how much attention to detail was put into this book and I tip my hat to the author. For a book that had high expectations this past it by miles. I will be thinking about it for a very long time.
I only have one question…. when is the third book coming? And if the author reads this……. please don’t make us wait another whole year.
I really wish I could dive into the authors mind to ask HOW she wrote something so beautiful, destructive while also being so painfully accurate. There are heavy topics in this and honestly a trigger warning should have been added but the way we live the experiences with Zoya BROKE ME. Theres not a single emotion I didnt feel. It’s a skill to be able to write like this.
Every character had a purpose and you grow to care about all of them. But her portrayal of Zoya and Idris is unmatched. They are written so well that at times it felt like I was reading a true story.
This is a perfect example of how a series should be done because it is far removed from the first book but it also tied together so well.
The obedient bow is a book every woman needs to read. By the end I felt empowered just being a woman.
Its clear how much attention to detail was put into this book and I tip my hat to the author. For a book that had high expectations this past it by miles. I will be thinking about it for a very long time.
I only have one question…. when is the third book coming? And if the author reads this……. please don’t make us wait another whole year.
April 22, 2025
I binge read The Obedient Bow on Saturday, and I couldn’t put it down.
This book follows Zoya’s story. I love that in this story we still get snippets of her 3 best friends through out their childhood, and well on into adulthood.
I also, really found it interesting to read Zoya’s quiet observations about her friends. She was more observant and aware of her friends struggles than I have her credit for in the first book (The Perfect Bow). Btw that book is amazing too. Start there first.
Alright this book follows Zoya’s story and the struggles she goes through as girl in a very traditional household.
We meet Idris. All be really honest I absolutely hated him at the beginning of this book. I still hate Zoya’s book dad. Oh my goodness he was a toxic horrible human. Her mother wasn’t great, but she wasn’t nearly as bad as her father. I won’t share more because I don’t want to ruin your experience reading this book.
All I have to say is I liked that this book showed that if you are willing to fight for what you want, have friends, and know your worth you can come out of anything. I also, like that they show everyone is capable of change if the person wants to change and evolve. Great book.
This book follows Zoya’s story. I love that in this story we still get snippets of her 3 best friends through out their childhood, and well on into adulthood.
I also, really found it interesting to read Zoya’s quiet observations about her friends. She was more observant and aware of her friends struggles than I have her credit for in the first book (The Perfect Bow). Btw that book is amazing too. Start there first.
Alright this book follows Zoya’s story and the struggles she goes through as girl in a very traditional household.
We meet Idris. All be really honest I absolutely hated him at the beginning of this book. I still hate Zoya’s book dad. Oh my goodness he was a toxic horrible human. Her mother wasn’t great, but she wasn’t nearly as bad as her father. I won’t share more because I don’t want to ruin your experience reading this book.
All I have to say is I liked that this book showed that if you are willing to fight for what you want, have friends, and know your worth you can come out of anything. I also, like that they show everyone is capable of change if the person wants to change and evolve. Great book.
April 12, 2025
An emotional rollercoaster — even better than the first!
I didn’t think The Obedient Bow could top the first book in the series, but Samirah Zaman did it again. I read this in one night — couldn’t put it down. Just like book one, it had me crying multiple times.
Zoya completely stole my heart this time. She’s become my favourite from the friendship group, and watching her grow was everything. The character development across the board was so well done, and felt incredibly real. Some parts were definitely triggering, but that only made the story hit harder.
Samirah Zaman writes with such honesty and heart. The pacing is fast, the writing is sharp, and the emotions are raw. As a South Asian reader, this one hit home. No spoilers, but I absolutely loved it. Can’t wait for the next book to be released!
I didn’t think The Obedient Bow could top the first book in the series, but Samirah Zaman did it again. I read this in one night — couldn’t put it down. Just like book one, it had me crying multiple times.
Zoya completely stole my heart this time. She’s become my favourite from the friendship group, and watching her grow was everything. The character development across the board was so well done, and felt incredibly real. Some parts were definitely triggering, but that only made the story hit harder.
Samirah Zaman writes with such honesty and heart. The pacing is fast, the writing is sharp, and the emotions are raw. As a South Asian reader, this one hit home. No spoilers, but I absolutely loved it. Can’t wait for the next book to be released!
November 22, 2025
This book was sooooo well written. I could not put it down. Love this author. This is the second book of hers I'm reading.
My heart aches for Zoya. I know so many women go through what she does in real life. I think that's what made the story feel so real. I hated the ending though. I really wished they didn't end up together. I know Idris eventually worked on himself and became a better person but I can't believe it took her leaving for him to finally realize she's done with putting up with his abuse. The funny thing is I know he probably doesn't view it as abuse. He's only a little self aware. He knew she was miserable for over 10 years and he was making her miserable 75% of the time. The other 25% was his family.
I would have been okay with them ending up together if he hadn't physically abused Zoya in the past. I also can't get over him forcing himself on her MULTIPLE TIMES. Zoya eventually giving up and letting him have sex is rape. If she's not feeling it and has told you she doesn't want to do and you coerce her to give in, it is rape. Her saying no I need a minute and you using lube and then continuing is STILL RAPE. Also the fact that their first time was when she was 17 (or maybe 18) and he's 7 years older... Disgusting. This is the biggest reason why I can't get over them ending up together. Oh and his verbal abuse was something else. The way he made her feel worthless and apparently he's been in love with her this whole time he's hurting her. Like okay buddy nice way of showing it smh
I really wished she didn't end up with him. I pray that in the fictional world where all the fictional characters live in my mind, she eventually leaves him. I find solace in knowing (hoping) she eventually leaves him. I was hoping she finally broke the cycle and would divorce him. Hated his chauvinistic ass.
I just remembered how he blamed her for her miscarriage and basically said she shouldn't be sad because she didn't want the kid. Yeah you've been raping her and taking her birth control pills away when you feel like it so she's been forced to have kids with you. Ofcourse she's not thrilled about being pregnant. He also called her a maid and frequently refers to their kids as "my children."
I know he had his moments where he was sweet and a decent husband but he was super controlling and there were times he forbade her from leaving the house. I keep remembering different ways he was abusive and it's making it harder to stomach that she ended up with him. I read the first book in this series too and I was hoping she left her bum husband like her friend, Sumayyah.
I hate that the author wanted to give a "realistic conclusion." There's so many women I know who put with with men like Idris in real life and to know these women stay with their husbands is upsetting. I don't want women ending up with shitty men in fiction too. I still think his change isn't good enough or going to last. I know the next time he has an argument with Zoya he'll go back to being verbally abusive even if he never physically abuses her again.
I still can't get over the ending. Zoya deserved so much better. I think I would get over the ending atleast 30% if atleast her father died. What an absolute disgrace of a father. Oh and I just remembered ONE MORE THING. During an argument Idris said something along the lines of "I bought you" 😐 Him bringing up her ex multiple times when they were about to get intimate was also fucked up. "Kiss me how you kissed him" Tf is wrong with you man. I get that you're jealous but why would you have her thinking about her ex rn
In the beginning of the book I was hoping she would end with her first love but he turned out to be a piece of trash who taunted her husband by saying he was her first which wasn't even true. Even if it was, that would have still been hella disrespectful and disgusting. Honestly all of the men in Zoya's life sucked. I know why she wanted to only have sons and I hope they never hurt her like all the men in her life have. I also hope her daughter never has to go through what she did.
After reading the afterword all I'm going to say is Idris did not love her. He was obsessed with her. I refuse to believe "in the end, we saw how desperate he was to make his marriage work for no other reason than his love for Zoya." She did NOT have an "iteration of her childhood dream" come true by staying with Idris. She did not get her wish of having a loving man. He wasn't even a grey character with flaws. He WAS a villain in her life just like her dad.
I strongly hate when women stay with a man even after they did 2 specific things. One is if he cheats and the other is if he is abusive. Sumayyah finally left because Yousef was texting another woman. Love that for her. Zoya should NOT have stayed with Idris after his emotional, physical, and verbal abuse. I agree that both characters were flawed and made mistakes. All of the times Idris was physically abusive was because she lied or met her ex in secret. That was very wrong on Zoya's end. She constantly lied but again it was because he was controlling. She was trying to make the best out of what was "allowed" by Idris. That being said I would like to tell the author that there was a wrong and right side in this story. Idris being upset about his wife lying and meeting his ex was understandable. Idris physically and verbally abusing her because of that was wrong. Zoya leaving her abusive husband was her being on the right side. Idris was always on the wrong side except for the few moments when he was a decent husband. Now that I think about Idris is probably a sociopath
My heart aches for Zoya. I know so many women go through what she does in real life. I think that's what made the story feel so real. I hated the ending though. I really wished they didn't end up together. I know Idris eventually worked on himself and became a better person but I can't believe it took her leaving for him to finally realize she's done with putting up with his abuse. The funny thing is I know he probably doesn't view it as abuse. He's only a little self aware. He knew she was miserable for over 10 years and he was making her miserable 75% of the time. The other 25% was his family.
I would have been okay with them ending up together if he hadn't physically abused Zoya in the past. I also can't get over him forcing himself on her MULTIPLE TIMES. Zoya eventually giving up and letting him have sex is rape. If she's not feeling it and has told you she doesn't want to do and you coerce her to give in, it is rape. Her saying no I need a minute and you using lube and then continuing is STILL RAPE. Also the fact that their first time was when she was 17 (or maybe 18) and he's 7 years older... Disgusting. This is the biggest reason why I can't get over them ending up together. Oh and his verbal abuse was something else. The way he made her feel worthless and apparently he's been in love with her this whole time he's hurting her. Like okay buddy nice way of showing it smh
I really wished she didn't end up with him. I pray that in the fictional world where all the fictional characters live in my mind, she eventually leaves him. I find solace in knowing (hoping) she eventually leaves him. I was hoping she finally broke the cycle and would divorce him. Hated his chauvinistic ass.
I just remembered how he blamed her for her miscarriage and basically said she shouldn't be sad because she didn't want the kid. Yeah you've been raping her and taking her birth control pills away when you feel like it so she's been forced to have kids with you. Ofcourse she's not thrilled about being pregnant. He also called her a maid and frequently refers to their kids as "my children."
I know he had his moments where he was sweet and a decent husband but he was super controlling and there were times he forbade her from leaving the house. I keep remembering different ways he was abusive and it's making it harder to stomach that she ended up with him. I read the first book in this series too and I was hoping she left her bum husband like her friend, Sumayyah.
I hate that the author wanted to give a "realistic conclusion." There's so many women I know who put with with men like Idris in real life and to know these women stay with their husbands is upsetting. I don't want women ending up with shitty men in fiction too. I still think his change isn't good enough or going to last. I know the next time he has an argument with Zoya he'll go back to being verbally abusive even if he never physically abuses her again.
I still can't get over the ending. Zoya deserved so much better. I think I would get over the ending atleast 30% if atleast her father died. What an absolute disgrace of a father. Oh and I just remembered ONE MORE THING. During an argument Idris said something along the lines of "I bought you" 😐 Him bringing up her ex multiple times when they were about to get intimate was also fucked up. "Kiss me how you kissed him" Tf is wrong with you man. I get that you're jealous but why would you have her thinking about her ex rn
In the beginning of the book I was hoping she would end with her first love but he turned out to be a piece of trash who taunted her husband by saying he was her first which wasn't even true. Even if it was, that would have still been hella disrespectful and disgusting. Honestly all of the men in Zoya's life sucked. I know why she wanted to only have sons and I hope they never hurt her like all the men in her life have. I also hope her daughter never has to go through what she did.
After reading the afterword all I'm going to say is Idris did not love her. He was obsessed with her. I refuse to believe "in the end, we saw how desperate he was to make his marriage work for no other reason than his love for Zoya." She did NOT have an "iteration of her childhood dream" come true by staying with Idris. She did not get her wish of having a loving man. He wasn't even a grey character with flaws. He WAS a villain in her life just like her dad.
I strongly hate when women stay with a man even after they did 2 specific things. One is if he cheats and the other is if he is abusive. Sumayyah finally left because Yousef was texting another woman. Love that for her. Zoya should NOT have stayed with Idris after his emotional, physical, and verbal abuse. I agree that both characters were flawed and made mistakes. All of the times Idris was physically abusive was because she lied or met her ex in secret. That was very wrong on Zoya's end. She constantly lied but again it was because he was controlling. She was trying to make the best out of what was "allowed" by Idris. That being said I would like to tell the author that there was a wrong and right side in this story. Idris being upset about his wife lying and meeting his ex was understandable. Idris physically and verbally abusing her because of that was wrong. Zoya leaving her abusive husband was her being on the right side. Idris was always on the wrong side except for the few moments when he was a decent husband. Now that I think about Idris is probably a sociopath
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
wow this book did it for me! absolutely a Heartbreaking read like the first book I'm already itching for the next 2 books!! I eagerly waited 10 monthes for this book and it SERVED . What a sad but truthful book. Always makes me think how lucky I am as a Indian young women, to not be in the same position as the bows but ill never forget the ones before me who fought so I can have this😕🥰
December 28, 2025
Not the best, but still good!
This was a decent book that delved deep into the lives that some south asian women face in their lives, bother before and after marriage. Didn’t like how much it was focused on certain things that didn’t need to be mentioned and didn’t have to happen too often. Definitely not the best book in The Bow Series, but still a good read.
This was a decent book that delved deep into the lives that some south asian women face in their lives, bother before and after marriage. Didn’t like how much it was focused on certain things that didn’t need to be mentioned and didn’t have to happen too often. Definitely not the best book in The Bow Series, but still a good read.
April 7, 2025
EVEN THOUGH I COULDNT RELATE TO ANY PART OF THE Book … WAS I STILL SOBBING .. YESS
dare I say this book was almost like a self help book helping me discover even more of my personality
Definitively a infinity star read
dare I say this book was almost like a self help book helping me discover even more of my personality
Definitively a infinity star read
April 11, 2025
God she’s done it again. 🥹
June 19, 2025
This was such a sad book to read. I am not sure how I feel about the ending but definitely recommend reading it
August 27, 2025
actually adored this book. this was a rollercoaster of emotions. i love how beautifully it was written and the message the story gave. only thing i wasn’t particularly keen on was THE FACT ZOYA WENT BACK TO IDRIS 😫😫😫😫😖😖😖😖 WHY COULDNT SHE JUST GO BACK TO ADEEL AND MARRY HIM 😓😓😓
November 5, 2025
I literally cried soo much during this book 😭😭
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