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The Retreat
In Zara Raheem's newest novel we meet Nadia Abbasi--whose attempts to save her marriage create unexpected complications--and follow her as she navigates the twists and turns of love. Perfect for fans of Sonali Dev, Christina Lauren, and Sara Desai.
Nadia Abbasi's marriage is falling apart. It starts with a gifted Roomba, but when she stumbles upon some questionable photos in her husband Aman's office, everything makes sense--the late-night texting, the sudden interest in fitness, the new clothes. Aman--the kind, thoughtful man she married--is having an affair.
Determined to find out what went wrong in her marriage, Nadia enlists the help of Zeba, the estranged sister she hasn't seen or spoken to since their mom's funeral over a year ago. As the two sisters fight to reconcile their past, Nadia realizes her relationship with Aman is not the only one that needs mending.
Nevertheless, the plan itself is simple: confront the "other woman" and win back her husband. Her clumsy attempt at sleuthing leads her from yoga studio--Aman's latest hangout--to a three-day wellness retreat in the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains. But somewhere in between falling out of tree pose and choking down plant-based meals, Nadia's plans unravel again when she discovers more than she expected about herself, her husband, and the nature of love.
Nadia Abbasi's marriage is falling apart. It starts with a gifted Roomba, but when she stumbles upon some questionable photos in her husband Aman's office, everything makes sense--the late-night texting, the sudden interest in fitness, the new clothes. Aman--the kind, thoughtful man she married--is having an affair.
Determined to find out what went wrong in her marriage, Nadia enlists the help of Zeba, the estranged sister she hasn't seen or spoken to since their mom's funeral over a year ago. As the two sisters fight to reconcile their past, Nadia realizes her relationship with Aman is not the only one that needs mending.
Nevertheless, the plan itself is simple: confront the "other woman" and win back her husband. Her clumsy attempt at sleuthing leads her from yoga studio--Aman's latest hangout--to a three-day wellness retreat in the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains. But somewhere in between falling out of tree pose and choking down plant-based meals, Nadia's plans unravel again when she discovers more than she expected about herself, her husband, and the nature of love.
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2023
23 people are currently reading
8291 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
November 16, 2022
Such an AMAZING read. From the get go I was hooked and sleuthing my way along the story like the 2 sisters did. I absolutely loved the funny mishaps and funny moments between the characters. The tear jerking moments between the sisters and the two main characters (husband and wife) was tragically beautiful. This story made me laugh, cry and have eye opening experiences with good life lessons in between. Absolutely beautiful story that was written so masterfully. I give this 5 stars, and it takes a bit to get a 5 star rating from me. Breathtakingly good!
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publishers to read and review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publishers to read and review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
April 6, 2023
Nadia's decade-long marriage to Aman is falling apart. When she finds some suspicious photos, she is certain he's having an affair and runs to her estranged sister for advice and help. Miscommunication and slow-paced chaos ensues, and Nadia eventually ends up at a three-day wellness retreat with the woman she suspects is Aman's secret love.
The premise of this sounded like it would be funny, but it fell very flat overall. There was an extremely (much too) slow build to finally get to the actual retreat, and then the ending felt super rushed. I think my main issue was with Nadia as a character -- like she was randomly super klutzy in the yoga studio and ridiculously crabby and rude to everyone at the retreat when she was fairly normal (if slow on the uptake) everywhere else. She was all over the place and it didn't quite gel. I did really like how the relationship between the sisters and their grief over their mother was explored.
Despite not loving this book, I thought there was a lot of potential with this story and would read another book by Raheem in the future.
2.5 rounded down
* Thanks to William Morrow for the NetGalley review copy. The Retreat publishes April 25, 2023.
The premise of this sounded like it would be funny, but it fell very flat overall. There was an extremely (much too) slow build to finally get to the actual retreat, and then the ending felt super rushed. I think my main issue was with Nadia as a character -- like she was randomly super klutzy in the yoga studio and ridiculously crabby and rude to everyone at the retreat when she was fairly normal (if slow on the uptake) everywhere else. She was all over the place and it didn't quite gel. I did really like how the relationship between the sisters and their grief over their mother was explored.
Despite not loving this book, I thought there was a lot of potential with this story and would read another book by Raheem in the future.
2.5 rounded down
* Thanks to William Morrow for the NetGalley review copy. The Retreat publishes April 25, 2023.
September 13, 2022
The book surrounds Nadia and her struggles with her marriage after finding a film proof with a “happy anniversary card” photo that isn’t hers. The story follows her quest to find out who the other woman is with the help of her sister Zeba.
I enjoyed reading this book and felt it touched on some great themes. Infertility, the loss of a parent, sister relationships, and navigating infidelity and divorce in South Asian culture. I’m always looking for books that can teach me something new and this one delivered.
There were a few points where I felt some characters were cliche and I also felt there were some themes I wish were explored more, such as the infertility Nadia and her husband experiences, as I feel this isn’t talked about enough in literature.
The ending more than made up for it though and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. It was a fun read and I got through this in less than two days! I enjoyed Zara Raheem’s writing style as well and thought the cover art was beautiful. Can’t wait to read more of her work.
I received an advanced copy of this book through #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading this book and felt it touched on some great themes. Infertility, the loss of a parent, sister relationships, and navigating infidelity and divorce in South Asian culture. I’m always looking for books that can teach me something new and this one delivered.
There were a few points where I felt some characters were cliche and I also felt there were some themes I wish were explored more, such as the infertility Nadia and her husband experiences, as I feel this isn’t talked about enough in literature.
The ending more than made up for it though and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. It was a fun read and I got through this in less than two days! I enjoyed Zara Raheem’s writing style as well and thought the cover art was beautiful. Can’t wait to read more of her work.
I received an advanced copy of this book through #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2023
Wow. I wasn’t expecting to love this as much as I did. The writing was absolutely touching. I could feel every emotion while listening to it. It was such a joy going on this emotional ride with the sisters. The ending left my jaw hanging.
September 28, 2022
Loved the sister relationship and the focus on being a Muslim. It was cool to see how the two estranged siblings came together.
April 2, 2023
The miscommunication trope in this one was strong. It was pretty obvious what was going on with this couple and if they had just TALKED. The leaps made about L were so wild to me.
I was provided an advanced copy of this book which has not affected my review.
I was provided an advanced copy of this book which has not affected my review.
June 14, 2023
3.75 stars
Nadia knows her marriage is in a rut. She notices how things are stagnant. After a couple of weird incidences, she becomes suspicious of her husband, Aman. His constant long hours at the hospital, the new health conscious lifestyle, the way they don’t really talk. She suspects he’s having an affair, and along with the help of her sister goes about to spy on whom they think he’s having the affair with.
A couple of things I liked - the way this crisis helped to bring her closer to her sister from whom she’d been slightly estranged since their mother passed away. Recalling how her mother led her life after their father walked away from the family allowed Nadia to makes comparisons and notices patterns with new perspective.
I wasn’t a fan of the lack of communication, and the miscommunication tropes which are always iffy. Instead of approaching her husband she resorts to subterfuge to find the answer. And when Aman wants to talk she refuses to. I couldn’t escape the logic that it’d be much easier to talk than go through all that bother to go on a yoga retreat simply to spy on the alleged mistress only to get half answers.
In the end I was taken with the reconciliation between Nadia and her sister, and Nadia coming to terms with the loss of her mother and what she learnt from how her mother dealt when her marriage fell apart. This isn’t a full on romance, but a story about a woman regaining her own spark. The ending felt like a genuine response to Nadia’s life changes - bittersweet, but also a new chapter.
Sincere thanks to @netgalley & @williammorrowbooks for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Nadia knows her marriage is in a rut. She notices how things are stagnant. After a couple of weird incidences, she becomes suspicious of her husband, Aman. His constant long hours at the hospital, the new health conscious lifestyle, the way they don’t really talk. She suspects he’s having an affair, and along with the help of her sister goes about to spy on whom they think he’s having the affair with.
A couple of things I liked - the way this crisis helped to bring her closer to her sister from whom she’d been slightly estranged since their mother passed away. Recalling how her mother led her life after their father walked away from the family allowed Nadia to makes comparisons and notices patterns with new perspective.
I wasn’t a fan of the lack of communication, and the miscommunication tropes which are always iffy. Instead of approaching her husband she resorts to subterfuge to find the answer. And when Aman wants to talk she refuses to. I couldn’t escape the logic that it’d be much easier to talk than go through all that bother to go on a yoga retreat simply to spy on the alleged mistress only to get half answers.
In the end I was taken with the reconciliation between Nadia and her sister, and Nadia coming to terms with the loss of her mother and what she learnt from how her mother dealt when her marriage fell apart. This isn’t a full on romance, but a story about a woman regaining her own spark. The ending felt like a genuine response to Nadia’s life changes - bittersweet, but also a new chapter.
Sincere thanks to @netgalley & @williammorrowbooks for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2023
This normally isn't the genre I like to read but I actually really liked it. It's a quick read and it's very well written. I loved the bonding of the sisters and the investigation
February 10, 2024
Oh my heart! Watching Nadia’s marriage and her heart spiral out of control as she looks for the reason why her husband would cheat.
May 21, 2023
⭐️4.25/5
“Sometimes hearts get broken. Even if we don’t mean for them to”
35 year old Nadia and husband Aman have been married for 10 years and live near LA. Daily life has been plodding along for them, focusing on work. Until the day that Nadia has that moment of suspicion. That feeling that something isn’t right. The late nights at work, gym sessions and clean eating can all be explained but the photo?
It made me smile and I loved the humour. I really enjoyed the writing style and the South Asian culture - as someone who is British born and raised, it had the perfect context that I needed.
“He’s having a meltdown because I wouldn’t let him eat the candlesticks. He thinks they’re string cheese”
Looking back, there were a lot of life changing themes throughout, but they didn’t feel heavy at all and it all felt real. I think the culture really added to my reading experience but also showed how similar are struggles are regardless of our upbringing.
I could relate to Nadia’s suspicions and I felt that stomach dropping feeling and I really was there with her.
I usually have a few books on the go at the same time and this was the one that I wanted to pick up and keep reading! It was the perfect length at 339 pages and had good font (for us lot who are daunted by tiny text!).
“Sometimes hearts get broken. Even if we don’t mean for them to”
35 year old Nadia and husband Aman have been married for 10 years and live near LA. Daily life has been plodding along for them, focusing on work. Until the day that Nadia has that moment of suspicion. That feeling that something isn’t right. The late nights at work, gym sessions and clean eating can all be explained but the photo?
It made me smile and I loved the humour. I really enjoyed the writing style and the South Asian culture - as someone who is British born and raised, it had the perfect context that I needed.
“He’s having a meltdown because I wouldn’t let him eat the candlesticks. He thinks they’re string cheese”
Looking back, there were a lot of life changing themes throughout, but they didn’t feel heavy at all and it all felt real. I think the culture really added to my reading experience but also showed how similar are struggles are regardless of our upbringing.
I could relate to Nadia’s suspicions and I felt that stomach dropping feeling and I really was there with her.
I usually have a few books on the go at the same time and this was the one that I wanted to pick up and keep reading! It was the perfect length at 339 pages and had good font (for us lot who are daunted by tiny text!).
May 29, 2023
3.5 stars
A slow build up of a read which had some lovely moments. Regret, love and misunderstandings fill the pages of this easy to read story.
I loved the relationship between Nadia and Zeba - to have been through so much together their relationship is one of awkward silences and miscommunication to begin with. As we see the two sisters try to work through the mystery of Nadia’s marriage, it was lovely to see them come closer again and share wonderful moments of memory.
I think I would have liked more about the actual retreat and the characters involved but enjoyed seeing Nadia come to terms with the choices and events in her life.
A slow build up of a read which had some lovely moments. Regret, love and misunderstandings fill the pages of this easy to read story.
I loved the relationship between Nadia and Zeba - to have been through so much together their relationship is one of awkward silences and miscommunication to begin with. As we see the two sisters try to work through the mystery of Nadia’s marriage, it was lovely to see them come closer again and share wonderful moments of memory.
I think I would have liked more about the actual retreat and the characters involved but enjoyed seeing Nadia come to terms with the choices and events in her life.
May 31, 2024
My fave part was the rekindling of her and her sister's relationship. I love them so much
May 15, 2023
Oh, this book. I really really wanted to love it (women who rediscover themselves and their voices after the unexpected end of a relationship is one of my fave tropes!) but the flimsy main character and uneven story didn't make that possible. Let me explain...
Nadia Abassi is devastated to find text messages and more at her home that make it seem like her husband cheated on her. As she spirals and starts looking for more clues, she reaches out to her estranged sister, Zeba for support. The two sisters have had a tense relationship since Zeba took care of Nadia's ailing mother, while Nadia kept her distance (due to her mother not approving of Nadia's husband). Nadia becomes convinced the her husband is cheating with a gorgeous yoga instructor, so she goes on a yoga retreat to try and get proof.
Nadia spends a large portion of the book obsessing over if her husband is cheating. At least three times she has the chance to flat-out ask him and she doesn't or, worse, things interrupt them just as a talk is about to happen. This manipulation to drive the plot seemed disingenuous at best and annoying at worst.
I wasn't sure if the point of the story was for the sisters to work through their issues or to have Nadia "find herself" or both. In either case, these moments happen at the very end of the novel and feel unearned--especially since most of the novel is Nadia trying to either "find" the answer to a question she can easily ask or making derogatory comments about almost everyone she meets. Her commentary isn't mean, but it is absolutely judgmental and doesn't make her relatable. I appreciate fully fleshed out, flawed-but-human characters, but Nadia's snark and cluelessness about her marriage, her husband, and her sister's concerns make her more off-putting than relatable.
All in all, I felt like this book relegated the "big" emotional growth to the last bit of the novel and spent too much time on Nadia's fumbling around for a truth she could have gotten easily. I wanted more of Zeba, too. The image on the cover makes it seem like she attends the retreat with Nadia, but she doesn't. I wanted more sister-to-sister interaction...I feel like that would have made the reconnection and Nadia's growth more believable.
I will never give any novel less than three stars (you wrote a whole darn book, BRAVO!), but this one just didn't wow me. I loved The Marriage Clock, so I'm hoping Zara's next book is similarly in character and plotting to that one.
Nadia Abassi is devastated to find text messages and more at her home that make it seem like her husband cheated on her. As she spirals and starts looking for more clues, she reaches out to her estranged sister, Zeba for support. The two sisters have had a tense relationship since Zeba took care of Nadia's ailing mother, while Nadia kept her distance (due to her mother not approving of Nadia's husband). Nadia becomes convinced the her husband is cheating with a gorgeous yoga instructor, so she goes on a yoga retreat to try and get proof.
Nadia spends a large portion of the book obsessing over if her husband is cheating. At least three times she has the chance to flat-out ask him and she doesn't or, worse, things interrupt them just as a talk is about to happen. This manipulation to drive the plot seemed disingenuous at best and annoying at worst.
I wasn't sure if the point of the story was for the sisters to work through their issues or to have Nadia "find herself" or both. In either case, these moments happen at the very end of the novel and feel unearned--especially since most of the novel is Nadia trying to either "find" the answer to a question she can easily ask or making derogatory comments about almost everyone she meets. Her commentary isn't mean, but it is absolutely judgmental and doesn't make her relatable. I appreciate fully fleshed out, flawed-but-human characters, but Nadia's snark and cluelessness about her marriage, her husband, and her sister's concerns make her more off-putting than relatable.
All in all, I felt like this book relegated the "big" emotional growth to the last bit of the novel and spent too much time on Nadia's fumbling around for a truth she could have gotten easily. I wanted more of Zeba, too. The image on the cover makes it seem like she attends the retreat with Nadia, but she doesn't. I wanted more sister-to-sister interaction...I feel like that would have made the reconnection and Nadia's growth more believable.
I will never give any novel less than three stars (you wrote a whole darn book, BRAVO!), but this one just didn't wow me. I loved The Marriage Clock, so I'm hoping Zara's next book is similarly in character and plotting to that one.
February 11, 2023
This book predominantly surrounds Nadia’s marriage, her relationship with her sister, and the grief, memories, and assumptions regarding her relationship with her mother who had recently passed.
While the story may have had potential, it was slow moving, repetitive, and predictable. Unfortunately, I had a hard time maintaining interest. Additionally, there were themes touched upon in the story which were never really flushed out in enough detail to be meaningful.
Thank you to Goodreads and William Morrow publishing for this arc copy.
While the story may have had potential, it was slow moving, repetitive, and predictable. Unfortunately, I had a hard time maintaining interest. Additionally, there were themes touched upon in the story which were never really flushed out in enough detail to be meaningful.
Thank you to Goodreads and William Morrow publishing for this arc copy.
June 9, 2024
A palate cleanser for me, not my typical genre but honestly the story did keep me intrigued and curious. I’ll say it was nice to read about a contemporary Muslim/Desi woman with regular life problems that aren’t related to her identity (wow are we rlly that starved for representation!?!), but it was nice to see that her identity/culture was still a part of her experiences, not in an obnoxious way.
July 17, 2023
3.5 stars! i did not like how she was trying to stay w her husband so bad girl he cheated on you!!! if you don’t leave him… but i feel like in the last chapter she comes around to understanding that some things end. cute lil book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2023
See full review: https://www.bellavidastyles.com/book-...
I just finished an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) of “The Retreat” by Zara Raheem. My first thought of this novel is that the title can be a little deceiving as the actual retreat takes place over a few chapters towards the end of the book. There is a lot more content and themes to dive into than just the main character, Nadia, heading to a wellness retreat.
This novel follows Nadia Abbasi, a Muslim American woman, as she finds out her marriage is in turmoil after she finds some suspicious photos of her husband in his home office. This sets her off to find out what is really happening. Is her husband having an affair? And if he is, who is this secret person he’s texting?
She turns to her sister, Zeba, for advice, but at first there’s a challenge—their relationship hasn’t been perfect either. Zeba and Nadia have been estranged for over a year and have had little communication since their mother’s death.
This story is just as much about Nadia and Zeba’s relationship as it about Nadia and her husband Aman’s relationship. It also touches upon undealt grief and the repercussions our childhood circumstances have on adult life. Nadia had a difficult relationship with her mother, and although she has passed, her influence on her and her decisions remains strong.
I really enjoyed the development of the story line between Zeba and Nadia and how they overcame their differences to work together to figure out what was happening with Aman. Their investigation is what leads Nadia to sign up for a wellness retreat at a local yoga studio, which has appeared to be one Aman’s latest hangouts. Aman has also recently starting working out and eating healthy—his morning green juice is a daily staple.
The journey to repair her relationship with Zeba and find out the truth of what’s going on with Aman, leads Nadia to a journey of self-discovery of her own.
One thing I wish this author would’ve done a little more is give the engilsh word or meaning for some of the Indian words used throughout the text. I did a lot of researching while reading, but definitely learned a lot about the culture.
This book comes out April 25, 2023. Get your copy now!
I just finished an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) of “The Retreat” by Zara Raheem. My first thought of this novel is that the title can be a little deceiving as the actual retreat takes place over a few chapters towards the end of the book. There is a lot more content and themes to dive into than just the main character, Nadia, heading to a wellness retreat.
This novel follows Nadia Abbasi, a Muslim American woman, as she finds out her marriage is in turmoil after she finds some suspicious photos of her husband in his home office. This sets her off to find out what is really happening. Is her husband having an affair? And if he is, who is this secret person he’s texting?
She turns to her sister, Zeba, for advice, but at first there’s a challenge—their relationship hasn’t been perfect either. Zeba and Nadia have been estranged for over a year and have had little communication since their mother’s death.
This story is just as much about Nadia and Zeba’s relationship as it about Nadia and her husband Aman’s relationship. It also touches upon undealt grief and the repercussions our childhood circumstances have on adult life. Nadia had a difficult relationship with her mother, and although she has passed, her influence on her and her decisions remains strong.
I really enjoyed the development of the story line between Zeba and Nadia and how they overcame their differences to work together to figure out what was happening with Aman. Their investigation is what leads Nadia to sign up for a wellness retreat at a local yoga studio, which has appeared to be one Aman’s latest hangouts. Aman has also recently starting working out and eating healthy—his morning green juice is a daily staple.
The journey to repair her relationship with Zeba and find out the truth of what’s going on with Aman, leads Nadia to a journey of self-discovery of her own.
One thing I wish this author would’ve done a little more is give the engilsh word or meaning for some of the Indian words used throughout the text. I did a lot of researching while reading, but definitely learned a lot about the culture.
This book comes out April 25, 2023. Get your copy now!
April 25, 2023
Nadia’s suspicious of her husband of 10 years Aman having an affair. This woman would do anything to try to save this marriage and stick it out. When it comes to marriage she didn’t have the best example, seeing her mom suffering because her dad up and left, and Nadia refuses for that to be her. But little by little she’s realizing that maybe she is. She finally starts to get closer and close to her sister Zeba and I loved that relationship because even though theirs have been a little distant Zeba was right there for her to support her in anything she needed.
When Nadia, with the encouragement of Zeba, decides to confront things head on Nadia starts reflect on the beginnings of her relationship with Aman, she started to have more clarity on things and even got to understand her mom even more when the true secrets and identities were revealed…. I was so proud of Nadia at that moment how she handled everything, it was so awakening. I went from feeling bad for this woman to rooting for her, I couldn’t stop reading, I had to finish it! Everyone got their happy ending which was something I was not expecting but it was refreshing at the same time.
Thanks NetGalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
When Nadia, with the encouragement of Zeba, decides to confront things head on Nadia starts reflect on the beginnings of her relationship with Aman, she started to have more clarity on things and even got to understand her mom even more when the true secrets and identities were revealed…. I was so proud of Nadia at that moment how she handled everything, it was so awakening. I went from feeling bad for this woman to rooting for her, I couldn’t stop reading, I had to finish it! Everyone got their happy ending which was something I was not expecting but it was refreshing at the same time.
Thanks NetGalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
October 10, 2023
I loved it! I loved the characters! I loved the perspective! I loved the characters relationships with each other! It was a great read! Quick easy read. Keep me captivated. I would recommend.
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
May 2, 2023
I got this book as an ARC and did not read the back so I went in completely blind. I think this makes the books story more interesting but I was also interested by the cover and title. I thought I figured out the meaning of the title at least two times and really enjoyed the twists and turns in this book. The ending has a nice surprising twist that left me in shock. I was definitely not expecting that outcome. I would definitely recommend this book.
May 19, 2023
Very quick and easy to read, flew through this. Good writing style. Did not like the characters repeated lack of communication & assumptions .. and the ending felt too rushed.
Read
February 3, 2024Within the pages of "The Retreat," Zara Raheem weaves a tale that brims with raw emotions, tackling themes ranging from family estrangement to the complexities of infertility.
Step into the world of Nadia, a tenacious and accomplished doctor facing a myriad of challenges in her personal life. A year after their mother's funeral, Nadia seeks solace and support from her estranged sister, Zeba, as she grapples with suspicions of infidelity within her decade-long marriage to Aman. The sisters begin an investigation into Aman’s increasingly distant behavior, which leads them to a yoga studio, unearthing Aman's "other woman." At an emotional crossroads, Nadia embarks on a wellness retreat nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. Unbeknownst to her, this decision sets in motion a chain of unexpected events, unraveling the intricate layers of her relationship with Aman, her formative childhood experiences, and the unique pressures she faces as a Muslim-American woman.
As readers accompany Nadia through her fragmenting marriage and familial reconciliation, they bear witness to the profound growth, forgiveness, and even moments of joy that emerge amidst life's most trying circumstances. Raheem's storytelling is infused with a radiant warmth and a spirit of optimism that beautifully resonates, making "The Retreat" an ideal choice for those seeking an engaging and light-hearted escape from the complexities of everyday life.
Step into the world of Nadia, a tenacious and accomplished doctor facing a myriad of challenges in her personal life. A year after their mother's funeral, Nadia seeks solace and support from her estranged sister, Zeba, as she grapples with suspicions of infidelity within her decade-long marriage to Aman. The sisters begin an investigation into Aman’s increasingly distant behavior, which leads them to a yoga studio, unearthing Aman's "other woman." At an emotional crossroads, Nadia embarks on a wellness retreat nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. Unbeknownst to her, this decision sets in motion a chain of unexpected events, unraveling the intricate layers of her relationship with Aman, her formative childhood experiences, and the unique pressures she faces as a Muslim-American woman.
As readers accompany Nadia through her fragmenting marriage and familial reconciliation, they bear witness to the profound growth, forgiveness, and even moments of joy that emerge amidst life's most trying circumstances. Raheem's storytelling is infused with a radiant warmth and a spirit of optimism that beautifully resonates, making "The Retreat" an ideal choice for those seeking an engaging and light-hearted escape from the complexities of everyday life.
October 27, 2023
Absolutely delicious I highly recommend this book. I could’ve read it in one sitting but I read it in two days if that good. I need more books about yoga retreats, and just life in general this book was so goood.
June 2, 2023
This is one of the very first digital ARCs I ever requested, and months later? I've FINALLY read it. If there's one thing I've learned since - it's to be as stingy with my requests as some publishers are with their acceptance. 😂 Seriously, though - this wasn't for me - AT ALL. Not only did I despise the tropes involved but I wasn't impressed with the plot or writing style.
There was little character development and the writing style was simple. There were VERY real life, hard, adult problems throughout the book, but it contained so little depth that I felt no emotional connection, whatsoever. Lastly, the title had very little to do with the actual story. A retreat is mentioned, in passing, at 65% but nothing comes of it until about 75% through.
The redeeming factor to this was the few times that Zeba cooked for her sister and that there was a plot twist at 95% that I wasn't expecting.
There was little character development and the writing style was simple. There were VERY real life, hard, adult problems throughout the book, but it contained so little depth that I felt no emotional connection, whatsoever. Lastly, the title had very little to do with the actual story. A retreat is mentioned, in passing, at 65% but nothing comes of it until about 75% through.
The redeeming factor to this was the few times that Zeba cooked for her sister and that there was a plot twist at 95% that I wasn't expecting.
July 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and flew through it. I instantly felt for Nadia and Aman, as they struggled through 3 failed IVF journeys. This in turn put a strain on their marriage, which only escalates when Nadia finds some intimate photos of her husband.
I loved the relationship between Nadia and her sister Zeba.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. I thought it was well written, I felt the characters emotions throughout the book. Their journey was believable. I had hoped that the retreat part would have been more included. I especially loved the twist at the end, I really wasn’t expecting. I do wish it had been more hinted/explored more.
I loved the relationship between Nadia and her sister Zeba.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. I thought it was well written, I felt the characters emotions throughout the book. Their journey was believable. I had hoped that the retreat part would have been more included. I especially loved the twist at the end, I really wasn’t expecting. I do wish it had been more hinted/explored more.
May 18, 2023
TW // mention of miscarriage
May contain spoilers
Nadia's marriage is slowly crumbling in front of her, after 10 years together, her husband Aman has changed dramatically, cutting out foods, getting into fitness and drinking revolting smoothies. Nadia tries her best to get on board, and support her husband in his new endeavours, but after years of buying her practical gifts like Roombas and ironing boards, instead of romantic gifts, she's distraught and angry to find discarded photos of him setting out a romantic dinner for another woman. Determined to scare her off, and get her marriage back on track, Nadia reaches out to reconcile with the one person she can trust, her estranged sister Zeba. Soon Nadia will find there's more than one relationship in her life that needs to be mended, and she may just find out more about herself along the way.
Nadia has dealt with a constant stream of overwhelming loss and grief. Struggling for years and going through every possible resourced to aid her in getting pregnant, but having them fail has left her utterly bereft and isolated, particularly with her husband slowly pulling away with each attempt. Add this grief to the insurmountable and crushing amount of guilt she harbours for isolating herself from her family whilst her mother was battling cancer, and it's still impossible to grasp just how deeply this pain and agony manifests. Reaching out to Zeba is her first step in healing and trying to reconcile the strong bond they once had, but these visits really take their toll on Nadia, seeing her sister with her beautiful boys, and being hit constantly with these intense feeling of remorse and guilt for knowing how much Zeba had to sacrifice to look after their mother whilst she was just trying to get through each day, with the constant blows of not being able to conceive. In spite of all she's faced Nadia has a lot of determination and strength than I would have in this situation than I would, particularly towards her husband. I loved how realistically flawed and chaotic she is, particularly with the intense sweating whilst doing yoga, I am 100% that girl that goes in, and comes out looking like I've been swimming, how y'all go in there and just stay super dry and fresh I will never understand. Her determination and ability to continue trying her best in the face of failure and pain was truly inspirational and empowering, she's inherently stubborn and refuses to give up. Nadia's growth was really empowering, seeing her come to terms with how life pans out, embracing it and accepting it and herself as enough, in spite of her constant fears of ending up drowning in the face of love, her finally accepting that she cannot control everything, and what happens will happen was truly so powerful to read.
Zeba is an absolute QUEEN, when I tell you she is the most resilient, tenacious, and fiercely loyal woman you could ever hope to have on your side, I am not over-exaggerating. You cannot read this book and not fall completely in love with her , despite being the more timid sister, I love her forthrightness, and her small passive jibes in protection of Nadia. Zeba has such a beautiful and tender soul, with a strength that is truly indomitable, she's a powerhouse, and a force to be reckoned with and I absolutely adore her with my whole heart.
I really adored this story, Zara writes so beautifully, that you quickly become enamoured with Nadia and her tenacious spirit. The writing was so smooth and compelling, I felt the warmth, love, strength and loyalty that Nadia and Zeba emanated shine through the pages and it was just such an incredible story, that gripped hold of me and wouldn't let go. I couldn't put it down, it had me laughing out loud, and just bathes you in warmth. It was so wholesome seeing Nadia and Zeba's relationship stitching back together.
'The Retreat' is a story that explores some really poignant and eminent topics including the various forms of grief, and difficulties with conceiving. At it's heart though, it's a story that's so relatable and profound, with a beautiful message about finding yourself when all seems lost and broken, forgiveness, and the unshakeable love and bonds of sisterhood. Packed full of humour, heart-warming and affirming moments, this is a warm hug in book form, with two incredible and powerful women. It's definitely a story that'll keep you captivated and fully entranced with a beautifully heart-felt and moving HEA.
May contain spoilers
Nadia's marriage is slowly crumbling in front of her, after 10 years together, her husband Aman has changed dramatically, cutting out foods, getting into fitness and drinking revolting smoothies. Nadia tries her best to get on board, and support her husband in his new endeavours, but after years of buying her practical gifts like Roombas and ironing boards, instead of romantic gifts, she's distraught and angry to find discarded photos of him setting out a romantic dinner for another woman. Determined to scare her off, and get her marriage back on track, Nadia reaches out to reconcile with the one person she can trust, her estranged sister Zeba. Soon Nadia will find there's more than one relationship in her life that needs to be mended, and she may just find out more about herself along the way.
Nadia has dealt with a constant stream of overwhelming loss and grief. Struggling for years and going through every possible resourced to aid her in getting pregnant, but having them fail has left her utterly bereft and isolated, particularly with her husband slowly pulling away with each attempt. Add this grief to the insurmountable and crushing amount of guilt she harbours for isolating herself from her family whilst her mother was battling cancer, and it's still impossible to grasp just how deeply this pain and agony manifests. Reaching out to Zeba is her first step in healing and trying to reconcile the strong bond they once had, but these visits really take their toll on Nadia, seeing her sister with her beautiful boys, and being hit constantly with these intense feeling of remorse and guilt for knowing how much Zeba had to sacrifice to look after their mother whilst she was just trying to get through each day, with the constant blows of not being able to conceive. In spite of all she's faced Nadia has a lot of determination and strength than I would have in this situation than I would, particularly towards her husband. I loved how realistically flawed and chaotic she is, particularly with the intense sweating whilst doing yoga, I am 100% that girl that goes in, and comes out looking like I've been swimming, how y'all go in there and just stay super dry and fresh I will never understand. Her determination and ability to continue trying her best in the face of failure and pain was truly inspirational and empowering, she's inherently stubborn and refuses to give up. Nadia's growth was really empowering, seeing her come to terms with how life pans out, embracing it and accepting it and herself as enough, in spite of her constant fears of ending up drowning in the face of love, her finally accepting that she cannot control everything, and what happens will happen was truly so powerful to read.
Zeba is an absolute QUEEN, when I tell you she is the most resilient, tenacious, and fiercely loyal woman you could ever hope to have on your side, I am not over-exaggerating. You cannot read this book and not fall completely in love with her , despite being the more timid sister, I love her forthrightness, and her small passive jibes in protection of Nadia. Zeba has such a beautiful and tender soul, with a strength that is truly indomitable, she's a powerhouse, and a force to be reckoned with and I absolutely adore her with my whole heart.
I really adored this story, Zara writes so beautifully, that you quickly become enamoured with Nadia and her tenacious spirit. The writing was so smooth and compelling, I felt the warmth, love, strength and loyalty that Nadia and Zeba emanated shine through the pages and it was just such an incredible story, that gripped hold of me and wouldn't let go. I couldn't put it down, it had me laughing out loud, and just bathes you in warmth. It was so wholesome seeing Nadia and Zeba's relationship stitching back together.
'The Retreat' is a story that explores some really poignant and eminent topics including the various forms of grief, and difficulties with conceiving. At it's heart though, it's a story that's so relatable and profound, with a beautiful message about finding yourself when all seems lost and broken, forgiveness, and the unshakeable love and bonds of sisterhood. Packed full of humour, heart-warming and affirming moments, this is a warm hug in book form, with two incredible and powerful women. It's definitely a story that'll keep you captivated and fully entranced with a beautifully heart-felt and moving HEA.
November 3, 2024
This book was emotional and gut-wrenching from Nadia's perspective, and we can't help but sit there and feel those things alongside her. And while what Amand did was wrong, I also can't fault him for being happy in the end. 'The Retreat' by Zara Raheem dives deeply into the complexity of relationships, self-discovery, and the painful journey of moving on.
Nadia is not only dealing with heartbreak but also facing a profound sense of betrayal, and Raheem's writing captures the weight of these emotions with stunning authenticity. Nadia’s struggles feel incredibly real as she navigates the crushing disappointment of a broken marriage. What she thought was success, deeply influenced by how she grew up and her own mother's situation, enhances how deeply her hurt resonates. We can't help but hear the echo's of her heart breaking as readers.Her journey is challenging and painful but relatable, especially as she learns to let go of expectations and her plans for the future. Raheem crafts Nadia's emotional roller coaster with such precision that it feels like we are walking every step with her, feeling the agony, confusion, and gradual healing that come from realizing that sometimes, even the deepest love can come to an end.
Amand, meanwhile, is a character who sparks mixed emotions. His actions may be hard to forgive, yet his pursuit of happiness brings up important questions about personal authenticity and the difficulty of choosing between loyalty and self-fulfillment. Even though Amand's choices are painful for Nadia, the novel doesn’t paint him as a villain. Instead, it leaves readers grappling with the idea that love doesn’t always end in black and white—sometimes people just grow apart, and there is pain in that, but also, occasionally, a sense of bittersweet understanding.
Ultimately, 'The Retreat' is a powerful story about resilience, healing, and self-empowerment. It reminds readers of the strength needed to rebuild, the courage to let go, and the importance of finding your own peace even in the face of heartache. Raheem’s novel is both a heart-rending and uplifting read that makes you reflect on love, loss, and what it means to truly move on.
Nadia is not only dealing with heartbreak but also facing a profound sense of betrayal, and Raheem's writing captures the weight of these emotions with stunning authenticity. Nadia’s struggles feel incredibly real as she navigates the crushing disappointment of a broken marriage. What she thought was success, deeply influenced by how she grew up and her own mother's situation, enhances how deeply her hurt resonates. We can't help but hear the echo's of her heart breaking as readers.Her journey is challenging and painful but relatable, especially as she learns to let go of expectations and her plans for the future. Raheem crafts Nadia's emotional roller coaster with such precision that it feels like we are walking every step with her, feeling the agony, confusion, and gradual healing that come from realizing that sometimes, even the deepest love can come to an end.
Amand, meanwhile, is a character who sparks mixed emotions. His actions may be hard to forgive, yet his pursuit of happiness brings up important questions about personal authenticity and the difficulty of choosing between loyalty and self-fulfillment. Even though Amand's choices are painful for Nadia, the novel doesn’t paint him as a villain. Instead, it leaves readers grappling with the idea that love doesn’t always end in black and white—sometimes people just grow apart, and there is pain in that, but also, occasionally, a sense of bittersweet understanding.
Ultimately, 'The Retreat' is a powerful story about resilience, healing, and self-empowerment. It reminds readers of the strength needed to rebuild, the courage to let go, and the importance of finding your own peace even in the face of heartache. Raheem’s novel is both a heart-rending and uplifting read that makes you reflect on love, loss, and what it means to truly move on.
February 27, 2023
Plot: a woman finds out her husband is having an affair and, in a fit of panic, reconnects with her estranged sister to discover what it means to break generational cycles and toxic cultural traditions.
As a married woman, a lot of the details in this book hit close to home. The author does such a great job honing in on both the mundaneness of an everyday marriage–breakfast, text messages–as well as the more extraordinary events—ie. an affair. The details are sprinkled throughout in such a way that both reveals and hides, which isn’t easy to do. There are poignant lessons on relationships done in such a natural way that doesn’t feel like a lecture.
Another thing I noticed was, as a writer myself, I've always had issues with pacing in my own work. I either go too slow and talk meticulously about a character making a bowl of ramen or get bored of a scene and just zoop past it. The Retreat’s pacing, however, is impeccable. The book is fast paced in a way that doesn’t feel rushed and lingers where it needs to for just the perfect amount of time. If you're a writer and you also have issues with that, this book is a perfect study in pacing.
I really appreciate the connection between the sisters–I almost wish there was more of that. I was invested in the marriage because I'm always down to witness men messing up. but I was so much more interested in the dynamic between the sisters. and every time Zeba (the older sister) appears, I'm immediately excited. I love seeing their contrast and the way she squares up to protect Nadia. I love it. I have a marriage and it’s fine or whatever, but this book makes me want a sister.
I wasn't sure how I wanted this story to end. But when I closed the book, I felt such a sense of…satisfaction? Maybe it’s a little bit too neat, but I think that’s what we need in the world because we sure don’t get it enough IRL.
Thank you, Zara, for leaving us with a dabble of hope when the world feels consistently devoid of this.
Also: thank you Harper Collins for an ARC.
As a married woman, a lot of the details in this book hit close to home. The author does such a great job honing in on both the mundaneness of an everyday marriage–breakfast, text messages–as well as the more extraordinary events—ie. an affair. The details are sprinkled throughout in such a way that both reveals and hides, which isn’t easy to do. There are poignant lessons on relationships done in such a natural way that doesn’t feel like a lecture.
Another thing I noticed was, as a writer myself, I've always had issues with pacing in my own work. I either go too slow and talk meticulously about a character making a bowl of ramen or get bored of a scene and just zoop past it. The Retreat’s pacing, however, is impeccable. The book is fast paced in a way that doesn’t feel rushed and lingers where it needs to for just the perfect amount of time. If you're a writer and you also have issues with that, this book is a perfect study in pacing.
I really appreciate the connection between the sisters–I almost wish there was more of that. I was invested in the marriage because I'm always down to witness men messing up. but I was so much more interested in the dynamic between the sisters. and every time Zeba (the older sister) appears, I'm immediately excited. I love seeing their contrast and the way she squares up to protect Nadia. I love it. I have a marriage and it’s fine or whatever, but this book makes me want a sister.
I wasn't sure how I wanted this story to end. But when I closed the book, I felt such a sense of…satisfaction? Maybe it’s a little bit too neat, but I think that’s what we need in the world because we sure don’t get it enough IRL.
Thank you, Zara, for leaving us with a dabble of hope when the world feels consistently devoid of this.
Also: thank you Harper Collins for an ARC.
May 17, 2023
ℙ𝕝𝕠𝕥 : Indian American optometrist Nadia found out some evidence that indicates her husband, Aman is cheating on her. As her decade long marriage was falling apart, she found herself at the door of her sister Zeba. Nadia met Zeba last time at their mother's funeral almost a year ago and with the guilty feeling of Nadia for not being there during her mother's last days, she hesitated to ask help from her sister. And two sisters started investing their own strained relationship also started to heal.
🌷🌷
𝕄𝕪 𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨:
As an Indian, I enjoyed this book a lot. There are a lot of Indian references, including the part where Nadia and Zeba cooked Nirari together 🤤. The story touches on a lot of serious issues like infertility, growing up with a single mother as a migrated muslim, how South Asian culture deals with divorce, Cheating. I love how heart breaking yet beautifully the grief of losing a parent is written. And Nadia and Zeba 's relationship is the best thing in this book.
Though there are quite heavy topics that are present, the story maintain a light mooded tone all over.
There is two things I wish were different in this book, first, miscommunication trope between two 30something person who are married more than a decade is not convincing, there are few plot holes are there too which are created to maintain this trope. Secondly (🚨mild spoiler) cheating is always wrong, even it's with someone of same sex instead of opposite sex. There's not any prominent mention of this but there is a little changed tone is present where Nadia finally came to know Aman is cheating on her with a man , not a woman. That part is not something I really enjoyed.
I overall enjoyed this book as the writing style is really simple and easy, and as a short book it's a perfect one sitting finish read. Indian American Muslim representation is on point and the book deals with an usual topic very smartly while maintaining an upbeat undertone.
🌷🌷
𝕄𝕪 𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨:
As an Indian, I enjoyed this book a lot. There are a lot of Indian references, including the part where Nadia and Zeba cooked Nirari together 🤤. The story touches on a lot of serious issues like infertility, growing up with a single mother as a migrated muslim, how South Asian culture deals with divorce, Cheating. I love how heart breaking yet beautifully the grief of losing a parent is written. And Nadia and Zeba 's relationship is the best thing in this book.
Though there are quite heavy topics that are present, the story maintain a light mooded tone all over.
There is two things I wish were different in this book, first, miscommunication trope between two 30something person who are married more than a decade is not convincing, there are few plot holes are there too which are created to maintain this trope. Secondly (🚨mild spoiler) cheating is always wrong, even it's with someone of same sex instead of opposite sex. There's not any prominent mention of this but there is a little changed tone is present where Nadia finally came to know Aman is cheating on her with a man , not a woman. That part is not something I really enjoyed.
I overall enjoyed this book as the writing style is really simple and easy, and as a short book it's a perfect one sitting finish read. Indian American Muslim representation is on point and the book deals with an usual topic very smartly while maintaining an upbeat undertone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
Nadia is content in her marriage to Aman. That is until she finds some pictures and comes to the realisation that Aman is having an affair. Finding herself lost and alone she turns to her estranged sister Zeba who she’s not spoken to since their mother’s funeral a year ago. With Zeba’s advice and help Nadia tries to uncover Aman’s secret. Can her relationship with Aman and Zeba be saved?
The Retreat was a book that really surprised me and I enjoyed reading it immensely. It was heart-warming, heart breaking, with drama, emotion and some funny moments. When Nadia made the discovery abut Aman I felt like I was there with her. So when Nadia’s world fell away I felt like mine had too. This book was written in such a way that it was hard not to feel like I was standing next to Nadia and watching from the periphery as she went through pain and confusion. I had an inkling where the story would go in relation to Aman. Although my inkling was correct it didn’t spoil the story for me and it was far from predictable. Nadia loved Aman immensely but their marriage had become stale and they weren’t connecting like they use to. Nadia had noticed little changes in Aman but in some ways turned a blind eye to them until she found the photos and things started to fall into place. I think Nadia was very courageous when she decided to uncover Aman’s affair. I don’t know what I would have done in that situation but she’s braver than I could ever have been. Nadia could have confronted Aman but I don’t think she would have got the answers that she needed and I doubt if Aman would have been honest with Nadia.
It was interesting to see how the relationship between Nadia and Zeba unfolded. It was clear from the book that the one thing that they had in common and that kept their family unit together was their mother. When she passed away their family unit disintegrated and they became estranged. But when Nadia finds out about Aman, her world starts to fall apart and she doesn’t know who to go to she turns to her sister rather than her friends. She does this unconsciously and it’s like an immediate instinct that she needs to see Zeba. I loved the relationship between Nadia and Zeba. It was so lovely to see then reconnecting after such a long time. They both acknowledged that they’d been through something very difficult when their mother was ill and when they lost her. But rather than rake up the past and point the finger at each other they move forward always keeping their mother’s memory at the forefront.
What I loved about this book in particular was that it is about and features South Asian main characters and the way the characters were written I found it so easy to connect with them. They felt like real people and this was their very real story.
This is the first book that I’ve read by the author and it won’t be the last. I look forward to reading more books from this author in the future.
The Retreat was a book that really surprised me and I enjoyed reading it immensely. It was heart-warming, heart breaking, with drama, emotion and some funny moments. When Nadia made the discovery abut Aman I felt like I was there with her. So when Nadia’s world fell away I felt like mine had too. This book was written in such a way that it was hard not to feel like I was standing next to Nadia and watching from the periphery as she went through pain and confusion. I had an inkling where the story would go in relation to Aman. Although my inkling was correct it didn’t spoil the story for me and it was far from predictable. Nadia loved Aman immensely but their marriage had become stale and they weren’t connecting like they use to. Nadia had noticed little changes in Aman but in some ways turned a blind eye to them until she found the photos and things started to fall into place. I think Nadia was very courageous when she decided to uncover Aman’s affair. I don’t know what I would have done in that situation but she’s braver than I could ever have been. Nadia could have confronted Aman but I don’t think she would have got the answers that she needed and I doubt if Aman would have been honest with Nadia.
It was interesting to see how the relationship between Nadia and Zeba unfolded. It was clear from the book that the one thing that they had in common and that kept their family unit together was their mother. When she passed away their family unit disintegrated and they became estranged. But when Nadia finds out about Aman, her world starts to fall apart and she doesn’t know who to go to she turns to her sister rather than her friends. She does this unconsciously and it’s like an immediate instinct that she needs to see Zeba. I loved the relationship between Nadia and Zeba. It was so lovely to see then reconnecting after such a long time. They both acknowledged that they’d been through something very difficult when their mother was ill and when they lost her. But rather than rake up the past and point the finger at each other they move forward always keeping their mother’s memory at the forefront.
What I loved about this book in particular was that it is about and features South Asian main characters and the way the characters were written I found it so easy to connect with them. They felt like real people and this was their very real story.
This is the first book that I’ve read by the author and it won’t be the last. I look forward to reading more books from this author in the future.
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