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The ABCs of Layla
In a world where Layla dreams of escaping her turbulent family life, her sanctuary lies between the pages of her beloved books. She's relied on herself for years, unwilling to let anyone close enough to share her burdens.
“Well, if I ever get married, it won’t be to someone like Ayah.”
“Someone like Hakim?”
“Ibu, he’s just a friend. A good one, but he’s not the one. Besides, what about all those girls around him? Their hearts would break if he chose a plain Jane like me.”
Her loyal childhood friend, Hakim, has always stood by her, silently offering comfort. Then Kyle enters the picture. Charming, calm, and determined to carve out a space in Layla’s heart.
“Do I know you?”
“You used to, Layla. It’s been a while.”
Can she trust love when the world around her feels so unstable? Or should she focus solely on pursuing her dreams, no matter what or who she leaves behind? The ABCs of Layla is a heartfelt reminder that love, in all its forms, can be the unexpected anchor we need to navigate life’s storms.
***
The ABCs of Layla feels like a warm hug, like sipping hot chocolate during winter; definitely a comfort read. – Emma Najiha, Editor
“Well, if I ever get married, it won’t be to someone like Ayah.”
“Someone like Hakim?”
“Ibu, he’s just a friend. A good one, but he’s not the one. Besides, what about all those girls around him? Their hearts would break if he chose a plain Jane like me.”
Her loyal childhood friend, Hakim, has always stood by her, silently offering comfort. Then Kyle enters the picture. Charming, calm, and determined to carve out a space in Layla’s heart.
“Do I know you?”
“You used to, Layla. It’s been a while.”
Can she trust love when the world around her feels so unstable? Or should she focus solely on pursuing her dreams, no matter what or who she leaves behind? The ABCs of Layla is a heartfelt reminder that love, in all its forms, can be the unexpected anchor we need to navigate life’s storms.
***
The ABCs of Layla feels like a warm hug, like sipping hot chocolate during winter; definitely a comfort read. – Emma Najiha, Editor
397 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
July 15, 2025
The ABC & Of Layla by Ika Madeera
"L is for lies, because lies could save lives."
She wished for her father’s death. Not out of hate, but out of frustration, fear, and a longing for peace. The constant chaos of her father's drunken rages felt like a never-ending nightmare. Her only sanctuary was between the pages of her beloved books, the only escape from a harsh reality she couldn’t control.
Her loyal childhood friend, Hakim, had always been by her side, offering comfort when she needed it most. But then Kyle came into the picture, he determined to carve out a space in Layla’s heart.
Can she trust love when the world around her feels so unstable?
_______________________
The storyline of this book may seem simple, but it’s meaningful. It’s a heartwarming, emotional journey. Don’t expect a fluffy romance, because this isn’t a story about falling in love, it’s about learning how to love, how to grow, and how to heal.
The romance is subtle and slow-burn. It feels more like a friendship that quietly blossoms into something deeper, if and when the time is right.
At first, I rooted for Hakim to be the one who would end up with Layla. He’s been there for her since the beginning. But as the story unfolds, I changed my mind. Hakim has his own temper. Even though he offers Layla comfort, he lacks direction. He refuses to get a proper job, and he thinks that Layla is his life partner.
Kyle, on the other hand, is calm and understanding. Even when Layla rejects his confession, he continues to support her from a distance. He has his own struggles too, but he works hard to improve himself. To be a good partner for Layla and for his own future.
This book focuses heavily on family relationships. Each of the main characters has their own family wounds to deal with. Layla, especially, has it rough, growing up under the same roof with a drunken, abusive father is never easy. And yet, by the end of the story, there’s hope. Her father finally chooses to change. For his wife, for his daughter, and for himself.
I understand why Layla rejected both Hakim and Kyle’s confessions. It wasn’t about them. It was about her. She needed time. Time to fully heal, to rediscover herself, and to understand what she truly wants. And when that healing is done… who do you think she’ll choose? Hakim or Kyle? Hihi, you’ll have to read it yourself to find out. Btw, i really love the bond between Kyle and his Ah Ma.
Another thing I loved is that there's a lot of quotes in every chapter. Each one ties beautifully into the chapter’s theme and reflects on real-life struggles and emotions. It adds a comforting and reflective touch to the whole reading experience.
Overall, this book teaches us that it's not too late to be better person. Everyday is a new opportunity to do better.
Personal rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
"L is for lies, because lies could save lives."
She wished for her father’s death. Not out of hate, but out of frustration, fear, and a longing for peace. The constant chaos of her father's drunken rages felt like a never-ending nightmare. Her only sanctuary was between the pages of her beloved books, the only escape from a harsh reality she couldn’t control.
Her loyal childhood friend, Hakim, had always been by her side, offering comfort when she needed it most. But then Kyle came into the picture, he determined to carve out a space in Layla’s heart.
Can she trust love when the world around her feels so unstable?
_______________________
The storyline of this book may seem simple, but it’s meaningful. It’s a heartwarming, emotional journey. Don’t expect a fluffy romance, because this isn’t a story about falling in love, it’s about learning how to love, how to grow, and how to heal.
The romance is subtle and slow-burn. It feels more like a friendship that quietly blossoms into something deeper, if and when the time is right.
At first, I rooted for Hakim to be the one who would end up with Layla. He’s been there for her since the beginning. But as the story unfolds, I changed my mind. Hakim has his own temper. Even though he offers Layla comfort, he lacks direction. He refuses to get a proper job, and he thinks that Layla is his life partner.
Kyle, on the other hand, is calm and understanding. Even when Layla rejects his confession, he continues to support her from a distance. He has his own struggles too, but he works hard to improve himself. To be a good partner for Layla and for his own future.
This book focuses heavily on family relationships. Each of the main characters has their own family wounds to deal with. Layla, especially, has it rough, growing up under the same roof with a drunken, abusive father is never easy. And yet, by the end of the story, there’s hope. Her father finally chooses to change. For his wife, for his daughter, and for himself.
I understand why Layla rejected both Hakim and Kyle’s confessions. It wasn’t about them. It was about her. She needed time. Time to fully heal, to rediscover herself, and to understand what she truly wants. And when that healing is done… who do you think she’ll choose? Hakim or Kyle? Hihi, you’ll have to read it yourself to find out. Btw, i really love the bond between Kyle and his Ah Ma.
Another thing I loved is that there's a lot of quotes in every chapter. Each one ties beautifully into the chapter’s theme and reflects on real-life struggles and emotions. It adds a comforting and reflective touch to the whole reading experience.
Overall, this book teaches us that it's not too late to be better person. Everyday is a new opportunity to do better.
Personal rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
August 26, 2026
Genre: slice of life with a little bit of romance as a subplot
Trope: childhood friends to lovers/ family drama/ etc...
My thoughts 💭 (my opinion)
My very first time reading Kak Ika Madera's work and I really liked it! The writing is beautiful. This story is not all about romance. It's about Layla's family drama and how she has to deal with an alcoholic and abusive father. They tried to hold on to life while dealing with her father's issues. As a romance reader of course I did enjoy the romance in this book. There are two men chasing after Layla and both of them are her childhood friends. The question is, which one will Layla choose? Is it Hakim who has always been around her or Kyle who just came back from Perth and wants to catch up with Layla after losing so many years together?
I would say the romance in this book is about 40 percent. It's not that much because there is a family drama going on and each character has their own battles to survive. If you asked me to describe this book in one word, it would be heartbreaking or heartwarming. I want to hug Layla because she's been through a lot. All the characters in this book have been through so much yet they are still trying to move forward with their lives. The plot is nice and entertaining to read. I felt all the emotions while reading this. Tell me what else I didn't feel? Swooning? Teary eyes and heartbreak? 💔 I felt all of it and I think the author did a great job of delivering all those emotions.
Overall, this is a nice read for me. I never thought I would enjoy it tbh because I didn't have high expectations for this book. When it exceeded my expectations I was so relieved because I really enjoyed the book instead of feeling the opposite. Although the storyline doesn't have a wow factor for me yet, it's still a nice read. To Kak Ika, I hope you keep writing and don't ever stop because you really have the talent! I recommend this book to those who love reading family drama or life drama with romance as a subplot. Please give it a try if you love this kind of story or genre. Recommended.
4🌟
Last but not least, thank you @maneswordworks for this review copy!
Trope: childhood friends to lovers/ family drama/ etc...
My thoughts 💭 (my opinion)
My very first time reading Kak Ika Madera's work and I really liked it! The writing is beautiful. This story is not all about romance. It's about Layla's family drama and how she has to deal with an alcoholic and abusive father. They tried to hold on to life while dealing with her father's issues. As a romance reader of course I did enjoy the romance in this book. There are two men chasing after Layla and both of them are her childhood friends. The question is, which one will Layla choose? Is it Hakim who has always been around her or Kyle who just came back from Perth and wants to catch up with Layla after losing so many years together?
I would say the romance in this book is about 40 percent. It's not that much because there is a family drama going on and each character has their own battles to survive. If you asked me to describe this book in one word, it would be heartbreaking or heartwarming. I want to hug Layla because she's been through a lot. All the characters in this book have been through so much yet they are still trying to move forward with their lives. The plot is nice and entertaining to read. I felt all the emotions while reading this. Tell me what else I didn't feel? Swooning? Teary eyes and heartbreak? 💔 I felt all of it and I think the author did a great job of delivering all those emotions.
Overall, this is a nice read for me. I never thought I would enjoy it tbh because I didn't have high expectations for this book. When it exceeded my expectations I was so relieved because I really enjoyed the book instead of feeling the opposite. Although the storyline doesn't have a wow factor for me yet, it's still a nice read. To Kak Ika, I hope you keep writing and don't ever stop because you really have the talent! I recommend this book to those who love reading family drama or life drama with romance as a subplot. Please give it a try if you love this kind of story or genre. Recommended.
4🌟
Last but not least, thank you @maneswordworks for this review copy!
September 28, 2025
I love this, like really, really love this book so much. If I tell you about the genre, it's more like a slice of life romance. Very sweet, doesn't have a very serious conflict in it. But more importantly, the book highlights the uncertainty of the human heart and mind. If you attempt to search for a light read, then this is the book. Although the pages are quite long. But it was worth it. At least for me.
And more of it the book itself highlights the importance of family love and support. Also it's not too late to be a better person. A simple push and encouragement from your loved one could help you more to achieve your goals.
P/S: I can relate with the main character itself. So it was quite understandable when she was slightly uncertain about who to choose because it was not a simple yes or no when it comes to choosing a life partner and accepting the person that has hurt you before.
And more of it the book itself highlights the importance of family love and support. Also it's not too late to be a better person. A simple push and encouragement from your loved one could help you more to achieve your goals.
P/S: I can relate with the main character itself. So it was quite understandable when she was slightly uncertain about who to choose because it was not a simple yes or no when it comes to choosing a life partner and accepting the person that has hurt you before.
July 5, 2025
3.8 bintang
Cerita santai tentang kehidupan seorang gadis bernama Layla. Aku suka Layla yang ada pendirian dan tahu apa yang dia mahu, apa yang dia suka. Memang ada kisah cinta tiga segi, tapi penulis lebih banyak memasukkan tema kekeluargaan dalam cerita ini. Aku suka hubungan keluarga Kyle yang saling menyokong. Kalau tak, hidupnya pasti terumbang-ambing atau mengalami gangguan mental kerana sejarah hidupnya yang gelap.
Layla pula memang tabah hidup dalam dysfunctional family. Aku cakap tabah, sebab bukan senang anak-anak daripada keluarga berantakan untuk jadi tahan diri dan ada pendirian. Mereka kadang-kadang rasa terpinggir dan rendah diri.
Aku suka pilihan lelaki Layla. Dia buat pilihan tepat cuma rasa agak tiba-tiba keputusannya itu.
Cerita santai tentang kehidupan seorang gadis bernama Layla. Aku suka Layla yang ada pendirian dan tahu apa yang dia mahu, apa yang dia suka. Memang ada kisah cinta tiga segi, tapi penulis lebih banyak memasukkan tema kekeluargaan dalam cerita ini. Aku suka hubungan keluarga Kyle yang saling menyokong. Kalau tak, hidupnya pasti terumbang-ambing atau mengalami gangguan mental kerana sejarah hidupnya yang gelap.
Layla pula memang tabah hidup dalam dysfunctional family. Aku cakap tabah, sebab bukan senang anak-anak daripada keluarga berantakan untuk jadi tahan diri dan ada pendirian. Mereka kadang-kadang rasa terpinggir dan rendah diri.
Aku suka pilihan lelaki Layla. Dia buat pilihan tepat cuma rasa agak tiba-tiba keputusannya itu.
June 9, 2025
This book is not my cup of tea thus I don't enjoy it as much as someone who loves this genre. The phase for chic lit/romance has long gone for me.
The story is heartwarming and there will be butterflies fluttering somewhere. Layla is a girl struggling to find love due to her family situation at the beginning of the story. As the story progresses, things slowly change for the better: her trauma eased up as she opens herself to the possibility of new dreams and love. Who will she choose? Hakim or Kyle?
Few things about the book:
× it focuses more on the importance of family than on the romance element which is a big plus for me. It also focuses more on the strength of the women in it, as they endure abusive relationship and the death of their love ones.
× Not a fan of love triangle. Been there done that and I know personally how heartbreaking it is when you are pushed resolutely into the friendzone circle lol.
× it's predictable. To me at least. I kind of get the idea who Layla will choose halfway through the book, and I was right. Also, of the twist with Kyle's faith. I saw it coming. Or maybe Layla is just slooooowwwwwww.
× I like how Layla didn't back down in pursuing her dreams regardless of the pressure other people putting on her. Like she said, if it is meant to be, it will be. No point of rushing things.
Story 4/5
Characters 4/5
Development 4/5
Style of writing 4/5
Enjoyment 3/5
Overall 3.8/5
The story is heartwarming and there will be butterflies fluttering somewhere. Layla is a girl struggling to find love due to her family situation at the beginning of the story. As the story progresses, things slowly change for the better: her trauma eased up as she opens herself to the possibility of new dreams and love. Who will she choose? Hakim or Kyle?
Few things about the book:
× it focuses more on the importance of family than on the romance element which is a big plus for me. It also focuses more on the strength of the women in it, as they endure abusive relationship and the death of their love ones.
× Not a fan of love triangle. Been there done that and I know personally how heartbreaking it is when you are pushed resolutely into the friendzone circle lol.
× it's predictable. To me at least. I kind of get the idea who Layla will choose halfway through the book, and I was right. Also, of the twist with Kyle's faith. I saw it coming. Or maybe Layla is just slooooowwwwwww.
× I like how Layla didn't back down in pursuing her dreams regardless of the pressure other people putting on her. Like she said, if it is meant to be, it will be. No point of rushing things.
Story 4/5
Characters 4/5
Development 4/5
Style of writing 4/5
Enjoyment 3/5
Overall 3.8/5
November 7, 2025
For me, this book genre is a slice of life.There are so many good things I want to talk about in this book. I needed a break from fantasy before diving back in, and this was a perfect choice. I felt connected to and understood by Layla, a bookworm who just wants to do things for herself after years, feel trapped, but as the story progresses, few characters developed especially her father. Then, she was surrounded by a great support system. The lighthouse metaphor was so beautiful that it brought me to tears. Kyle is such a green flag, and I feel like if he were real, I would love him. He’s calm, present, supportive, and patient. He didn’t force himself like Hakim, and he was so caring toward Ah Ma and Layla’s family. I loved how he always joined Layla’s father for Friday prayers at different mosques around the island and how he was the one who stayed when Layla needed him most. I’m so glad it had a happy ending 🥹
My favourite character is Ah Ma. She reminds me of my late grandma 🤧
My favourite character is Ah Ma. She reminds me of my late grandma 🤧
May 27, 2025
🤲🏼📸🍽️✈️📚
Tropes: love triangle, second chance romance
TW/CW: alcohol abuse, domestic violence, reference to suicide
My opinion:
In the first chapter, we meet Layla (our FMC), a book lover and an only child. (Of course, there’s more to her than meets the eye 💯)
I immediately connected with her, being a fellow bookworm myself 🤭. Saving up for books is no easy feat (ESPECIALLY during PBAKL season—OOF—but we fight through the nafsu). Lately, I’ve been trying to stay accountable for every book purchase, but Laylaaa, I get it. We need more books! We need our own home library, frfr. ANYWAY!!!
Then comes the gradual introduction of our MMCs, Hakim and Kyle. Childhood friends of the FMC, and yes, both are in love with her. One believes in fate and serendipity, while the other holds tight to comfort and familiarity. So… who will Layla choose in the end? You’ll have to read and find out 😉
As the story unfolds, we’re pulled into a tapestry of family dynamics: Kyle and her Ah Ma, Layla and her parents, Hakim and his older sister. Each character brings their own backstory, their own weight and I appreciate how the narrative makes space for each of these family arcs. Although the pacing could use refinement and some plot points are predictable, I still found myself enjoying the flow and emotional beats of the story overall.
Tropes: love triangle, second chance romance
TW/CW: alcohol abuse, domestic violence, reference to suicide
My opinion:
In the first chapter, we meet Layla (our FMC), a book lover and an only child. (Of course, there’s more to her than meets the eye 💯)
I immediately connected with her, being a fellow bookworm myself 🤭. Saving up for books is no easy feat (ESPECIALLY during PBAKL season—OOF—but we fight through the nafsu). Lately, I’ve been trying to stay accountable for every book purchase, but Laylaaa, I get it. We need more books! We need our own home library, frfr. ANYWAY!!!
Then comes the gradual introduction of our MMCs, Hakim and Kyle. Childhood friends of the FMC, and yes, both are in love with her. One believes in fate and serendipity, while the other holds tight to comfort and familiarity. So… who will Layla choose in the end? You’ll have to read and find out 😉
As the story unfolds, we’re pulled into a tapestry of family dynamics: Kyle and her Ah Ma, Layla and her parents, Hakim and his older sister. Each character brings their own backstory, their own weight and I appreciate how the narrative makes space for each of these family arcs. Although the pacing could use refinement and some plot points are predictable, I still found myself enjoying the flow and emotional beats of the story overall.
September 21, 2026
Rate: 9/10 🌟 (Slice of Life, Drama, Romance)
Drama too good that i feel like its would be made into the old-version-of-TV3-drama. This kind of storyline really does reflect someone's life out there. Real struggle.
In love with how this story unfold both from the childhood until they're all grown up. Too cute yk to imagine how small version of Kyle was, with handkerchief just to make sure he didn't have the sweaty palms to greet Layla. Even small Kyle was already a considerate boy.
Not entirely anti-Hakim. But I lowkey pity him too. To be always in the 'friend' zone and never make it out. His feelings is pure, but some of the actions aren't. And really love that he knows that and reflect on it.
Drama too good that i feel like its would be made into the old-version-of-TV3-drama. This kind of storyline really does reflect someone's life out there. Real struggle.
In love with how this story unfold both from the childhood until they're all grown up. Too cute yk to imagine how small version of Kyle was, with handkerchief just to make sure he didn't have the sweaty palms to greet Layla. Even small Kyle was already a considerate boy.
Not entirely anti-Hakim. But I lowkey pity him too. To be always in the 'friend' zone and never make it out. His feelings is pure, but some of the actions aren't. And really love that he knows that and reflect on it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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