What do you think?
Rate this book
Chords of the Reckless Heart
Syamil would always be known for his dreams. As the youngest of the renowned Khair brothers, his priorities involve being a surgeon-in-training by day and a guitarist for Runaway Rascals by night.
Sofea would always be known for her boldness. As the brazen daughter to wealthy parents, her priorities involve running her aunt’s art gallery and hiding herself between pages of books.
Their worlds collide when Sofea’s brother, Jamal, is convicted for a misfortune he’d caused, one Alif, Syamil’s enigmatic older brother, had partially been responsible for.
With the unwanted spotlight on his family, Syamil takes a break from the media, putting his focus on his studies, all while escaping Sofea’s wrath, as she’s determined Jamal has been wrongfully accused, initiating a whirlwind of madness.
But with a sudden turn of events, everything changes, forcing Syamil and Sofea into a life of street racing, injustice, and chaos, leading them to see past differences while learning to forgive, not just others, but also themselves.
Sofea would always be known for her boldness. As the brazen daughter to wealthy parents, her priorities involve running her aunt’s art gallery and hiding herself between pages of books.
Their worlds collide when Sofea’s brother, Jamal, is convicted for a misfortune he’d caused, one Alif, Syamil’s enigmatic older brother, had partially been responsible for.
With the unwanted spotlight on his family, Syamil takes a break from the media, putting his focus on his studies, all while escaping Sofea’s wrath, as she’s determined Jamal has been wrongfully accused, initiating a whirlwind of madness.
But with a sudden turn of events, everything changes, forcing Syamil and Sofea into a life of street racing, injustice, and chaos, leading them to see past differences while learning to forgive, not just others, but also themselves.
- GenresRomance
464 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2025
6 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Marisa Fendi
5 books19 followersMarisa Fendi is a born-and-raised city girl with a passion for storytelling. She finds delight in travelling between the pages of a book and creating enchanting worlds within the comfort of her home. Aside from writing, she enjoys binge-watching her favourite TV shows, listening to the same three songs on repeat, and stuffing her face with ice cream. She lives in Malaysia with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 24, 2025
My thought?
1. Tbh, TBR aku bertimbun lagi tapi aku skip sebab nak baca buku ni. Aku suka gila Song Of The Runaway Heart weh. Bila dapat tahu buku ni pasal Syamil pulak, memang merentan la nak baca cepat2 haha. I am glad I did. Buku ni pun best sangat.
2. Aku tak boleh la. Aku memang suka gila dialog2 penulis in both books. Dia macam bersahaja tapi kelakar. Faham tak? Tak perlu effort banyak atau buat lawak bodoh pun untuk buat aku ketawa dan sengih macam beruk bila baca 🤣 Writng style memang mudah difahami, suitable for beginners.
3. Macam biasa, watak dalam buku ni semua A++. Really love the character development. Slowly but surely. Tak macam sesetengah buku. Statik je sampai ke sudah 😑
Syamil - macam yang kita tahu sebelum adik bongsu, the cutest one, rebellious rockstar. Dalam buku ni kiranya aftermath event dalam book 1. Macam mana diorang cuba berdamai dengan takdir. Band Syamil terkesan jugak la dengan kecaman netizen.
Sofea - fmc baru. Anak orang kaya. Twin sister si Jamal. Awal2 nak balas dendam kat Syamil. Pastu lama2 macam best pulak kawan dengan Syamil. Sofea ni ada psycho ex, si Arshad. A bit of stalker. Tak boleh terima Sofea lari dari dia. So bila tahu Sofea baik dengan Syamil, lagi naik hantu dia.
3. Zara masih win dalam buku ni sebagai the best character. Dia dengan ayam obsession hahaha 🤣 Memang betul2 penyeri cerita. Aku memang suka betul relationship Syamil dengan Zara ni. Memang sayang betul Syamil dengan anak buah dia.
4. My favourite : Chapter 41 ! Brotherhood is back 😆
5. Aku sebenarnya agak irritated dengan Sofea sebab susah betul nak open up. Sanggup lari bhai. Nasib baik la si Syamil ni penyabar orangnya. Sanggup cari sampai ke seberang laut. Terima kasih penulis untuk epilogue. Kalau tak saya mengamuk 🤣
Nota kaki : I demand a story about Alif next 😆
1. Tbh, TBR aku bertimbun lagi tapi aku skip sebab nak baca buku ni. Aku suka gila Song Of The Runaway Heart weh. Bila dapat tahu buku ni pasal Syamil pulak, memang merentan la nak baca cepat2 haha. I am glad I did. Buku ni pun best sangat.
2. Aku tak boleh la. Aku memang suka gila dialog2 penulis in both books. Dia macam bersahaja tapi kelakar. Faham tak? Tak perlu effort banyak atau buat lawak bodoh pun untuk buat aku ketawa dan sengih macam beruk bila baca 🤣 Writng style memang mudah difahami, suitable for beginners.
3. Macam biasa, watak dalam buku ni semua A++. Really love the character development. Slowly but surely. Tak macam sesetengah buku. Statik je sampai ke sudah 😑
Syamil - macam yang kita tahu sebelum adik bongsu, the cutest one, rebellious rockstar. Dalam buku ni kiranya aftermath event dalam book 1. Macam mana diorang cuba berdamai dengan takdir. Band Syamil terkesan jugak la dengan kecaman netizen.
Sofea - fmc baru. Anak orang kaya. Twin sister si Jamal. Awal2 nak balas dendam kat Syamil. Pastu lama2 macam best pulak kawan dengan Syamil. Sofea ni ada psycho ex, si Arshad. A bit of stalker. Tak boleh terima Sofea lari dari dia. So bila tahu Sofea baik dengan Syamil, lagi naik hantu dia.
3. Zara masih win dalam buku ni sebagai the best character. Dia dengan ayam obsession hahaha 🤣 Memang betul2 penyeri cerita. Aku memang suka betul relationship Syamil dengan Zara ni. Memang sayang betul Syamil dengan anak buah dia.
4. My favourite : Chapter 41 ! Brotherhood is back 😆
5. Aku sebenarnya agak irritated dengan Sofea sebab susah betul nak open up. Sanggup lari bhai. Nasib baik la si Syamil ni penyabar orangnya. Sanggup cari sampai ke seberang laut. Terima kasih penulis untuk epilogue. Kalau tak saya mengamuk 🤣
Nota kaki : I demand a story about Alif next 😆
June 15, 2025
maybe i expect too much since i enjoyed sotrh to the fullest and excited for my syamil's own book. my reading was so slow maybe its a me problem. i wanted to root for Sofea. she was strong, cold, and hurting, but i struggled to understand her behavior and intentions for revenge. like why go for Syamil instead of his brother Alif, who was actually the one connected to her brother Jamal? 😔 i assumed she wanted Khair brothers to suffer the way she did, which might explain the title Reckless Heart. but honestly, she had so much time on her hands, leaving her works at the art museum and everything to execute this plan😭🤏🏻 the emotional weight didn’t always land. i wanted to care, but i couldnt feel emotionally connected to Sofea’s pain. compared to sotrh, the stakes felt less personal, eventhough they should have been more intense and more tension, i can say it had the setup but lacked the punch huhu
the ex plot? ngl that was just annoying😭 it didnt add much for me and kinda distracted from the core dynamic.
but i did enjoy Syamil. his softness, his patience, his internal struggle as last child, his passion, his humor, his calmness even having a stalker and tarantula in his car HAHA (quite diff from sotrh since we finally get his pov). the way he flirted with Sofea in that smooth way?? love it😮💨 their slowburn build up was easily the highlight, full of longing, denial, stolen glances, and that signature Marisa Fendi wit.
overall this is just an okay read for me, i love their flirting era, kicking the air everytime Syamil came out with his pickuplines. however not enough tension or progression to keep me wanting to turn pages. the humor and writing style are still very much there (which i appreciate), and there were a few things that felt unresolved which i think gonna be in the next book. like what happen to Alif case and i dont really get how Kamelia can act okay knowing Sofea is Jamal's sister. Runaway Rascals squad, Haikal, Zara and Rocky cameo lurvee!! honestly i need more Syamil and Sofea dating era😔🙏🏻
3.5/5🌟
the ex plot? ngl that was just annoying😭 it didnt add much for me and kinda distracted from the core dynamic.
but i did enjoy Syamil. his softness, his patience, his internal struggle as last child, his passion, his humor, his calmness even having a stalker and tarantula in his car HAHA (quite diff from sotrh since we finally get his pov). the way he flirted with Sofea in that smooth way?? love it😮💨 their slowburn build up was easily the highlight, full of longing, denial, stolen glances, and that signature Marisa Fendi wit.
overall this is just an okay read for me, i love their flirting era, kicking the air everytime Syamil came out with his pickuplines. however not enough tension or progression to keep me wanting to turn pages. the humor and writing style are still very much there (which i appreciate), and there were a few things that felt unresolved which i think gonna be in the next book. like what happen to Alif case and i dont really get how Kamelia can act okay knowing Sofea is Jamal's sister. Runaway Rascals squad, Haikal, Zara and Rocky cameo lurvee!! honestly i need more Syamil and Sofea dating era😔🙏🏻
3.5/5🌟
August 18, 2025
3.5/5 🌟
Definitely heartwarming stories to read about the Khair's brothers and this time it's about the youngest brother, Syamil (although I thought that Marisa wanted to write Alif's story after Haikal) but I'm glad I picked this one up !
I would like to praise Marisa in terms of her writing. Definitely more smoother and better flow in terms of words arrangement than in SOTRH. But when it comes to the plot, I'm bit bias to SOTRH since the motives of each characters were a little bit clear and why they did their certain acts in the book. However in COTRH, I don't fully understand Sofea and Arshad's intentions and motives while they played their part. The pace of the story is also quite slow.
Other than that, I had a huge series of laugh while reading this and sometimes the one-pun liner is quite funny and iconic too ! I also love the characters development involving the two main characters. It is such a quite huge shift from avoiding and running away from their problems to forgiveness and accept the fact that others' people mistakes is not up for them to fix :)
And the fact that I think they are more sweet couple than Haikal & Kamelia ? I know shocking right ?? But I definitely felt more flutters and experienced a huge amount of blushing while reading their scene than in SOTRH. Syamil is too sweet when he's in love and his act of service is so cute ❤️
I'm in love with this series and I bet Abang Alif's story is going to be next, right ? 👀
Definitely heartwarming stories to read about the Khair's brothers and this time it's about the youngest brother, Syamil (although I thought that Marisa wanted to write Alif's story after Haikal) but I'm glad I picked this one up !
I would like to praise Marisa in terms of her writing. Definitely more smoother and better flow in terms of words arrangement than in SOTRH. But when it comes to the plot, I'm bit bias to SOTRH since the motives of each characters were a little bit clear and why they did their certain acts in the book. However in COTRH, I don't fully understand Sofea and Arshad's intentions and motives while they played their part. The pace of the story is also quite slow.
Other than that, I had a huge series of laugh while reading this and sometimes the one-pun liner is quite funny and iconic too ! I also love the characters development involving the two main characters. It is such a quite huge shift from avoiding and running away from their problems to forgiveness and accept the fact that others' people mistakes is not up for them to fix :)
And the fact that I think they are more sweet couple than Haikal & Kamelia ? I know shocking right ?? But I definitely felt more flutters and experienced a huge amount of blushing while reading their scene than in SOTRH. Syamil is too sweet when he's in love and his act of service is so cute ❤️
I'm in love with this series and I bet Abang Alif's story is going to be next, right ? 👀
May 16, 2025
✫ After devouring and loving SOTRH i was beyond ready for Syamil's story and let me tell you it HITS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES 🎵👏🏻 (pun intended 😂)
While my heart belongs to Abang Alif, there's always been a special charm to Syamil, the sweet musician of the family 💗
✫ I read the ARC (first draft) a little bit and honestly, it didn't quite click with me. But Naad sent me the final draft and OH MY GOD just like that, the familiar magic of Marisa Fendi was back ✨
✫ I've always thought Syamil's love story would be a light and fluffy romance but COTRH delivered so much more. Both Syamil and Sofea carried significant emotional baggage, and watching them navigate that added a beautiful layer of depth. There was even a touch of angst yall 😭 This book was the epitome of rom com with an emotional core 🥹💗
✫ COTRH was sweet and tender, but also painful and harsh, which made the story feel so authentic. To me, the ending made perfect sense for Syamil and Sofea. I can't say more bcs of spoiler but it's just beautiful💗
Overall, COTRH lived up to my high expectations. I devoured it in just 3 nights and highly recommend it to anyone who loves:
🎸 an enemies-to-lovers trope
🎸 a creative arts couple
🎸 a baddie/cutie dynamic
🎸 and a heartfelt slice-of-life romance.
My rating: 4.5 ⭐️
.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.
Thank you so much to Bookiut for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review. It will be available at PBAKL this 23rd May!
While my heart belongs to Abang Alif, there's always been a special charm to Syamil, the sweet musician of the family 💗
✫ I read the ARC (first draft) a little bit and honestly, it didn't quite click with me. But Naad sent me the final draft and OH MY GOD just like that, the familiar magic of Marisa Fendi was back ✨
✫ I've always thought Syamil's love story would be a light and fluffy romance but COTRH delivered so much more. Both Syamil and Sofea carried significant emotional baggage, and watching them navigate that added a beautiful layer of depth. There was even a touch of angst yall 😭 This book was the epitome of rom com with an emotional core 🥹💗
✫ COTRH was sweet and tender, but also painful and harsh, which made the story feel so authentic. To me, the ending made perfect sense for Syamil and Sofea. I can't say more bcs of spoiler but it's just beautiful💗
Overall, COTRH lived up to my high expectations. I devoured it in just 3 nights and highly recommend it to anyone who loves:
🎸 an enemies-to-lovers trope
🎸 a creative arts couple
🎸 a baddie/cutie dynamic
🎸 and a heartfelt slice-of-life romance.
My rating: 4.5 ⭐️
.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.
Thank you so much to Bookiut for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review. It will be available at PBAKL this 23rd May!
June 5, 2025
I bought this book at PBAKL! I was intrigued looking at enamel pins at the merchandise counter when all of a sudden I got recommended this book. I folded, I bought it. Absolutely no regrets.
Syamil is literally my ideal guy, and when he was described to me I knew I just had to buy this book. My friend Saffiya and I turned to each other and we were like ,"Oh my god, that's so Amira-coded." Med student? Check. Guitarist? Check. In a metal band? Check. Golden retriever? CHECK.
Honestly, his book is not *just* a romance. I loved the way it portrayed the difference between the two characters, and how they both reacted to the wrongs committed by their own family members. It felt realistic and human and showed the complexity of these different relationships, how we can still care for people despite their wrongdoings. Not only the relationships between them and their family members, but their relationships with grief, love itself. I really loved connecting with Sofea and Syamil. Their characters were fleshed out so well, I felt like I personally knew them.
I didn't know what to expect, but this book was entertaining from front to back. Honestly, the best book I've ever bought without prior research. The best recommendation I've ever gotten, hands down. Plus, it made for such a cute bookworm moment.
Syamil is literally my ideal guy, and when he was described to me I knew I just had to buy this book. My friend Saffiya and I turned to each other and we were like ,"Oh my god, that's so Amira-coded." Med student? Check. Guitarist? Check. In a metal band? Check. Golden retriever? CHECK.
Honestly, his book is not *just* a romance. I loved the way it portrayed the difference between the two characters, and how they both reacted to the wrongs committed by their own family members. It felt realistic and human and showed the complexity of these different relationships, how we can still care for people despite their wrongdoings. Not only the relationships between them and their family members, but their relationships with grief, love itself. I really loved connecting with Sofea and Syamil. Their characters were fleshed out so well, I felt like I personally knew them.
I didn't know what to expect, but this book was entertaining from front to back. Honestly, the best book I've ever bought without prior research. The best recommendation I've ever gotten, hands down. Plus, it made for such a cute bookworm moment.
September 29, 2025
At first, I really didn't like Sofea. I felt her act of revenge on behalf of someone close to her is too childish. However, as the story progresses, I love how she became more mature, accepting herself and trying to love herself more. She's very sweet but accidentally loves the wrong person, which makes her downgrade herself. I love her confidence and strong appearance.
As for Syamil, I already like him from the first book. He's very lovable, playful, and very caring uncle to Zara. His flirting game is very on top. He's not and idiot yearner like his brother, Haikal. Whenever he likes someone, he will pursue to get that person to like him back. I'll be very happy to have a younger brother like him (don't tell my brothers XD).
At first, I didn't really enjoyed the dynamic between Sofea and Syamil. However, they're easily a loveable couple as the story progress. There are few chapters that I have a hard time understanding their emotions, but it doesn't really affect my overall experience.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book!
PS: I still need Abang Alif's love Story.
As for Syamil, I already like him from the first book. He's very lovable, playful, and very caring uncle to Zara. His flirting game is very on top. He's not and idiot yearner like his brother, Haikal. Whenever he likes someone, he will pursue to get that person to like him back. I'll be very happy to have a younger brother like him (don't tell my brothers XD).
At first, I didn't really enjoyed the dynamic between Sofea and Syamil. However, they're easily a loveable couple as the story progress. There are few chapters that I have a hard time understanding their emotions, but it doesn't really affect my overall experience.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book!
PS: I still need Abang Alif's love Story.
December 27, 2025
“[Syamil] was free to love, free to care, and he wouldn't question it one bit.” - Sofea binti Osman, Chords of the Reckless Heart.
TW & CW: Death, Drugs, Gangs, Murder, Tarantulas
Chords of the Reckless Heart follows the youngest Khair brother, Syamil, after the events of Songs of the Runaway Heart. Syamil is reeling from the betrayal of his eldest brother's involvement in the scandal that stole Abang Azhar's life. He falls victim to an act of revenge by Sofea, sister to Jamal, the main culprit behind the staged death. Sofea seeks retribution against the Khair brothers for putting her brother behind bars. As they come to terms with their new realities, secrets come to light and penance is made.
I absolutely loved reading from Syamil's POV because his perseverance knows no bounds. His coming to terms with his new reality and finding in him some forgiveness for his brother and father was inspiring. His friendship and protectiveness towards Hafiz and Anushia were heartwarming. The Runaway Rascals made a lovable ragtag crew. His attachment to Zara was precious, and his personality really shone through as he tried to win Sofea over. The level of patience, understanding and gentleness he showed her while giving her the space to open up about her past was so well-written. Another Khair brother to swoon over, it's like collecting seashells at this point.
Sofea, on the other hand, was a challenging character to understand. She had the bare bones of a revenge plan in mind before flying back to Malaysia, and her intentions were all over the place. After a few pranks, she suddenly is civil with Syamil and conversing with his friends. I didn't see how any of her pranks or actions could be considered vengeful. They were more disruptive than anything. Her constant push-and-pull became annoying because it felt like she was leading Syamil on. While I appreciate her struggles, she was too forgiving towards Jamal and Arshad until the very last minute.
The plot was a mess, and it didn't need to be 450 pages long. It was as though the purpose of this book was forgotten after the first 100 pages. There were too many repetitions and filler chapters that affected the pacing until the last 20%. While Syamil and Sofea were both sweet in their healing and trying to rediscover their hearts phase, this did not contribute to the overarching plot. Not much was tied up here from the fallout of events in SotRH.
There was little communication between Kamelia and Alif regarding what happened to her brother, yet we are told everything is fine because Alif regrets his actions. The Arshad storyline was frustrating, although I appreciated that he ultimately assisted the brothers' reconciliation. His ending felt cheap, and Jamal's fate seems a little off.
As always, Marisa Fendi's writing was beautiful and witty. Syamil's lines and smoothness were impressive. I appreciated the way she explored Syamil and Sofea's baggage while also exploring other characters in their lives. The care and grace she offered our two main characters while they navigated their struggles made me respect her craft.
Overall, while I'm disappointed with how Chords of the Reckless Heart turned out, I can say it was a good addition to this universe. We needed to see things from Syamil's and Sofea's POV before we wrap things up. I'm holding out for Abang Alif's book, but I'm managing my expectations this time around.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. Enjoy reading the book, fellow bookworms!
TW & CW: Death, Drugs, Gangs, Murder, Tarantulas
Chords of the Reckless Heart follows the youngest Khair brother, Syamil, after the events of Songs of the Runaway Heart. Syamil is reeling from the betrayal of his eldest brother's involvement in the scandal that stole Abang Azhar's life. He falls victim to an act of revenge by Sofea, sister to Jamal, the main culprit behind the staged death. Sofea seeks retribution against the Khair brothers for putting her brother behind bars. As they come to terms with their new realities, secrets come to light and penance is made.
I absolutely loved reading from Syamil's POV because his perseverance knows no bounds. His coming to terms with his new reality and finding in him some forgiveness for his brother and father was inspiring. His friendship and protectiveness towards Hafiz and Anushia were heartwarming. The Runaway Rascals made a lovable ragtag crew. His attachment to Zara was precious, and his personality really shone through as he tried to win Sofea over. The level of patience, understanding and gentleness he showed her while giving her the space to open up about her past was so well-written. Another Khair brother to swoon over, it's like collecting seashells at this point.
Sofea, on the other hand, was a challenging character to understand. She had the bare bones of a revenge plan in mind before flying back to Malaysia, and her intentions were all over the place. After a few pranks, she suddenly is civil with Syamil and conversing with his friends. I didn't see how any of her pranks or actions could be considered vengeful. They were more disruptive than anything. Her constant push-and-pull became annoying because it felt like she was leading Syamil on. While I appreciate her struggles, she was too forgiving towards Jamal and Arshad until the very last minute.
The plot was a mess, and it didn't need to be 450 pages long. It was as though the purpose of this book was forgotten after the first 100 pages. There were too many repetitions and filler chapters that affected the pacing until the last 20%. While Syamil and Sofea were both sweet in their healing and trying to rediscover their hearts phase, this did not contribute to the overarching plot. Not much was tied up here from the fallout of events in SotRH.
There was little communication between Kamelia and Alif regarding what happened to her brother, yet we are told everything is fine because Alif regrets his actions. The Arshad storyline was frustrating, although I appreciated that he ultimately assisted the brothers' reconciliation. His ending felt cheap, and Jamal's fate seems a little off.
As always, Marisa Fendi's writing was beautiful and witty. Syamil's lines and smoothness were impressive. I appreciated the way she explored Syamil and Sofea's baggage while also exploring other characters in their lives. The care and grace she offered our two main characters while they navigated their struggles made me respect her craft.
Overall, while I'm disappointed with how Chords of the Reckless Heart turned out, I can say it was a good addition to this universe. We needed to see things from Syamil's and Sofea's POV before we wrap things up. I'm holding out for Abang Alif's book, but I'm managing my expectations this time around.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. Enjoy reading the book, fellow bookworms!
October 10, 2025
Honestly, i hoped that this one is as good as the first book. boy i was wrong. when i finished this one, we kinda get some closure. true, Syamil's story isnt the best because its not comforting. Syamil's story is about how they deal with the aftermath of the scandals. theres LOTS of dramas here compared to the first book. though i do think the execution can be done better. i love this. i love COTRH. i love how we can see Syamil's loving side. how pure he is. how loveable he is. he's such a lovey boyyy aaaaaa and sofea is the opposite character of him. and yes Syamil i agree, Sofea is INDEED hot 🙂↕️
what i applaud from this book is how people deal with unsettled feelings. being out of your comfort zone. we can see that alot in sofea's character development. another thing about this book is how calm the reading feels like? is that how i should describe it? it feels not too dramatic but the drama is there. such a relax reading i might say. oh this book doesnt give you that much butterflies, but it kinda make you sit with the characters. sit with their feelings, feel them. the reason why i love reading this. though i do feel like this one is slower than the first book. maybe not a cup of tea for some people.
i cant wait for the third Khair Brothers book 🥺 aaaaa truly now i can see Marisa's style of writing and i love it. though my favourite is still haikal ehehehehe 🫣
what i applaud from this book is how people deal with unsettled feelings. being out of your comfort zone. we can see that alot in sofea's character development. another thing about this book is how calm the reading feels like? is that how i should describe it? it feels not too dramatic but the drama is there. such a relax reading i might say. oh this book doesnt give you that much butterflies, but it kinda make you sit with the characters. sit with their feelings, feel them. the reason why i love reading this. though i do feel like this one is slower than the first book. maybe not a cup of tea for some people.
i cant wait for the third Khair Brothers book 🥺 aaaaa truly now i can see Marisa's style of writing and i love it. though my favourite is still haikal ehehehehe 🫣
June 14, 2025
Imma talk about what affect me the most.
I got stung by the sweetness 15% or so nearing the end. Other than that, there's sprinkle of humour here and there. Which I very berry much munchies love, I adore her humour. 🤓
I feel like in this book, the conflict are quite transparent yet suffocating. Like you get your head wrapped in a plastic bag trying to breath. How Sofea grief over her brother who have changed. How Syamil grief over his family dynamic. The story unfolds on how their life, unpredictably being even messier yet entangle to each other. I like how the two decided to take a break after what they've been through nearing the end. 🥺
One thing I like about Marissa Fendi's writing (so far I've only read SOTRH and this one) is that there are no happyily ever after ending. The ending are just. Fairly what life would be like. Where one just have to live the life.
Hoping she'd continue writing and publish another story, I'll wait 😞💗
I got stung by the sweetness 15% or so nearing the end. Other than that, there's sprinkle of humour here and there. Which I very berry much munchies love, I adore her humour. 🤓
I feel like in this book, the conflict are quite transparent yet suffocating. Like you get your head wrapped in a plastic bag trying to breath. How Sofea grief over her brother who have changed. How Syamil grief over his family dynamic. The story unfolds on how their life, unpredictably being even messier yet entangle to each other. I like how the two decided to take a break after what they've been through nearing the end. 🥺
One thing I like about Marissa Fendi's writing (so far I've only read SOTRH and this one) is that there are no happyily ever after ending. The ending are just. Fairly what life would be like. Where one just have to live the life.
Hoping she'd continue writing and publish another story, I'll wait 😞💗
July 23, 2025
Done and dusted!!!! arghhhh i cant stop smiling that romance cutesy part! i was a fans of syamil.. he's cute btw 😍😍
This will be one of my rereads and obviously my fav reads for july❤️
Here's of some of the words that made me flutter 😍😍
"I can be your rebound.", "Love me, Hurt me, ruin me, you can use me however you want" 🥰🥰- Syamil
"We live to love and love to live." - Sofea
"Someday, you're going to have to learn to forgive her." - Syamil
Will read this again and will annotate more.. i was too focused of the story and needs time to annotate this..
a five ⭐️ for this book😍😍, thanks Marissa, you're one of my fav author now❤️❤️
looking foward for Aliff's pov this time🥰
This will be one of my rereads and obviously my fav reads for july❤️
Here's of some of the words that made me flutter 😍😍
"I can be your rebound.", "Love me, Hurt me, ruin me, you can use me however you want" 🥰🥰- Syamil
"We live to love and love to live." - Sofea
"Someday, you're going to have to learn to forgive her." - Syamil
Will read this again and will annotate more.. i was too focused of the story and needs time to annotate this..
a five ⭐️ for this book😍😍, thanks Marissa, you're one of my fav author now❤️❤️
looking foward for Aliff's pov this time🥰
July 24, 2025
This is the first book that i bought in the series, only to realize that it was a series when i was 5 to 10 pages bfr finishing it. I didn't expect much from this book, but it manage to get me out of my book slump. This book is great for someone who thinks bad puns are funny. Syamil's flirtiness behaviour definitely got me hooked. Sofea weren't the only one who had her cheek feeling hot :)
However, i can't help but feel more attracted to Alif, Syamil's eldest brother among all of them. His secretive behaviour and protective traits towards his younger brothers are so endearing.
Therefore, I'm really looking forward to Alif's side of the story and now i need to buy SOARH asap.
However, i can't help but feel more attracted to Alif, Syamil's eldest brother among all of them. His secretive behaviour and protective traits towards his younger brothers are so endearing.
Therefore, I'm really looking forward to Alif's side of the story and now i need to buy SOARH asap.
June 19, 2025
Unfortunately the story is just not for me I dont feel the connection between Sophea and Syamil, i personally think its underdeveloped and forced
the mystery of what Arshad did and what causes Sofia to be sent to Mantua is resolved too late in the story. tbh I wouldn't have mind but it was alluded so much in the book, felt like a carrot dangling in front of my face the whole time while i was reading it.
but I like the ending. it was very sweet
June 21, 2025
I'M ABSOLUTELY LIVING FOR EVERY SECOND OF THIS MARISA WRITE FOR ABANG SYAMIL'S LOVE STORY FOREVER PLEASE!!! The banter?? ICONIC. The friendship?? PERFECTION. The romance?? I'M MELTING. And Syamil's flirtations?? CHEF'S KISS!!!
MARISA, I'M OBSESSED. YOU’VE GOT ME KICKING MY FEET AND GIGGLING LIKE A TEENAGER!!! I LOVE YOUUUU!!!
RTC
MARISA, I'M OBSESSED. YOU’VE GOT ME KICKING MY FEET AND GIGGLING LIKE A TEENAGER!!! I LOVE YOUUUU!!!
RTC
August 15, 2025
I don't know what I'm feeling right now. The characters, the plot.... I'm sobbing and after that I'm laughing and well, shocked too at the last few chapters. Not expected that obviously. I really love the whole plot and also Pak Leman and his wife??? They're so nice. And Syamil is really really really nice. Kinda hope there will book about Alif too.
June 20, 2025
I LURVEEEE ITTTT AAARRGGGHHHHH
COMEL GILAAAAA
MVP OF THE YEAR (OF THIS BOOK) 🤧 - PRINCESS ZARA, ✨️ THE OG CAPTAIN OF ALL THE SHIPS + pakcik osman too 👍🏻
hehehehehe
ANDDDDDD
I lurvee abang alif 😭 abang alif has taken my heart in this
I can't wait for his book now AAARRRGGGGHHHHHH
COMEL GILAAAAA
MVP OF THE YEAR (OF THIS BOOK) 🤧 - PRINCESS ZARA, ✨️ THE OG CAPTAIN OF ALL THE SHIPS + pakcik osman too 👍🏻
hehehehehe
ANDDDDDD
I lurvee abang alif 😭 abang alif has taken my heart in this
I can't wait for his book now AAARRRGGGGHHHHHH
October 5, 2025
I definitely prefer this more than SOTRH. Syamil's personality definitely made the book more interesting to read. The plot and writing feels smoother than the first book. However, towards the end it feels a bit draggy.
September 3, 2025
This got me out of the reading slump right away.
September 29, 2025
One whole huge star for Alif and Alif alone
October 23, 2025
3.75/5 ⭐️
October 24, 2025
I have not yet read Song of The Runaway Heart, but Chords of Reckless Heart definitely satisfied me as a reader🤩! OMG!!! I love the vibes it’s giving—having a music band in a book & some rage going on between them? There’s even romance too! Pheww😮💨 What more can I ask for, huh?
While reading the ARC, I realised that I slowly fell in love with Syamil’s character🫶🏻. I love that his love story is giving *‘he fell first & fell harder’*😆. Who wouldn’t want an obsessed boyfriend? I love the romantic scenes in this book involving two characters with very different personalities—one is a baddie, and one is a sunshine✨.
The plot was really tense between the Khair brothers🥰 and the other side😈 (iykyk hehe). I love that! Besides that, there were even some emotional scenes where I truly felt the pain Sofea’s been bearing. She’s the way she is because of the situation she’s in. If I could hug her, I would—but it’s okay, Syamil’s there for her 🥹🫂❤️! Other than that, frankly, I wish there were more scenes showing Sofea’s love for art—that’s the only thing I felt was lacking.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot, and I definitely should pick up SOTRH as soon as possible so I can get to know Syamil’s older brother🤭. You’ll definitely want to grab this book if you love the enemies-to-lovers trope😉! Thank you so much @bukubookiut for the ARC❤️🎸
While reading the ARC, I realised that I slowly fell in love with Syamil’s character🫶🏻. I love that his love story is giving *‘he fell first & fell harder’*😆. Who wouldn’t want an obsessed boyfriend? I love the romantic scenes in this book involving two characters with very different personalities—one is a baddie, and one is a sunshine✨.
The plot was really tense between the Khair brothers🥰 and the other side😈 (iykyk hehe). I love that! Besides that, there were even some emotional scenes where I truly felt the pain Sofea’s been bearing. She’s the way she is because of the situation she’s in. If I could hug her, I would—but it’s okay, Syamil’s there for her 🥹🫂❤️! Other than that, frankly, I wish there were more scenes showing Sofea’s love for art—that’s the only thing I felt was lacking.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot, and I definitely should pick up SOTRH as soon as possible so I can get to know Syamil’s older brother🤭. You’ll definitely want to grab this book if you love the enemies-to-lovers trope😉! Thank you so much @bukubookiut for the ARC❤️🎸
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews