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Hidden Fires
How can you live in the present when you’re trying to bury the past?‘A multi-generational family story which deftly weaves in the tragic events of Partition and the Grenfell Tower fire, this is a sweeping tale of resilience’ I News
Ramadan, 2017. Yusuf wakes up in the middle of the night to pray. His routine is always the same, but something tells him that tonight is different. Yellow flames blur Yusuf’s vision, and the laughter of a small child echoes in his ears. But this time, the red, smoke-filled skies aren’t just in his memory.
Miles away, Rubi is also awake. On the television, she watches reports of a devastating fire in London. She is already anxious when her parents send her to stay with her Grandpa Yusuf, whose conservative house rules are almost as unbearable as the loneliness she feels at home. Yusuf’s lifestyle does not gel with Rubi’s. But when she finds him scared and confused one night, it becomes clear that there’s more to her grandfather than Rubi ever considered.
As Yusuf grapples with the past, Rubi is determined to save him. But the memories that are recovered and spoken of for the first time in years are more painful than she could have imagined.
From the Costa Prize-shortlisted author of The Family Tree and Women's Prize x Good Housekeeping Futures Finalist, Hidden Fires is a powerful story of grief and loss, the power of family ties, and the long arm of history.
Readers are loving Hidden ‘A heartbreaking , emotional rollercoaster of a read, beautifully written’
‘A must read book’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘An exquisite book exploring the secrets, vulnerabilities and tremendous bonds between three generations of family . . . Equally heartbreaking and heartwarming, such harrowing experiences and uplifting moments of love. Nothing is idealised, it is raw, real and so perfectly imperfect. Rubi and Yusuf are up there as my favourite characters of this year's reads’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Ramadan, 2017. Yusuf wakes up in the middle of the night to pray. His routine is always the same, but something tells him that tonight is different. Yellow flames blur Yusuf’s vision, and the laughter of a small child echoes in his ears. But this time, the red, smoke-filled skies aren’t just in his memory.
Miles away, Rubi is also awake. On the television, she watches reports of a devastating fire in London. She is already anxious when her parents send her to stay with her Grandpa Yusuf, whose conservative house rules are almost as unbearable as the loneliness she feels at home. Yusuf’s lifestyle does not gel with Rubi’s. But when she finds him scared and confused one night, it becomes clear that there’s more to her grandfather than Rubi ever considered.
As Yusuf grapples with the past, Rubi is determined to save him. But the memories that are recovered and spoken of for the first time in years are more painful than she could have imagined.
From the Costa Prize-shortlisted author of The Family Tree and Women's Prize x Good Housekeeping Futures Finalist, Hidden Fires is a powerful story of grief and loss, the power of family ties, and the long arm of history.
Readers are loving Hidden ‘A heartbreaking , emotional rollercoaster of a read, beautifully written’
‘A must read book’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘An exquisite book exploring the secrets, vulnerabilities and tremendous bonds between three generations of family . . . Equally heartbreaking and heartwarming, such harrowing experiences and uplifting moments of love. Nothing is idealised, it is raw, real and so perfectly imperfect. Rubi and Yusuf are up there as my favourite characters of this year's reads’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
384 pages, Hardcover
Published January 18, 2024
15 people are currently reading
964 people want to read
About the author
Sairish Hussain
5 books151 followersSairish Hussain is a Bradford based author and Lecturer in Creative Writing. Her debut novel, The Family Tree, was published by HarperCollins and shortlisted for the Costa First Novel Award, the Portico Prize and The Diverse Book Awards. It was also longlisted for the Authors’ Club Best First Novel Award and winner of Calibre Audio's 'Hidden Gem' Prize. Sairish was selected by Kei Miller as one of ten ‘unmissable writers working in the UK’ for the International Literature Showcase 2021. She was one of the finalists in the Women’s Prize & Good Housekeeping Futures Award, an initiative which celebrates the most promising emerging female authors today. Her second novel, Hidden Fires, was published in 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 11, 2024
I remember reading Hidden Fires during my commutes between visiting relatives' houses for Eid in April, and we all know how tiring Eid celebration was, but I simply couldn't put this book down. And I’m STILL thinking about some parts of the book to this day. Blending national history and personal tragedy, the story follows both Rubi and her estranged Grandpa Yusuf — two characters who couldn’t be more different (I mean, Rubi dresses like a goth kid and Grandpa Yusuf attends the mosque daily), as they navigate their sudden living arrangement and discover that there is more to each other than they ever imagined.
This was an unexpectedly haunting read tinged with hope, humour and resilience. Most of Hidden Fires is set in Britain, where we witness Rubi’s struggle with insecurity and loneliness; Grandpa Yusuf’s attempt to bury his past and their growing friendship. There’s also this lingering mystery of Grandpa Yusuf’s nightmares, and what happened to him while he was living in India during the Partition. As engrossing as the “revelation” was, it was not an easy read by any stretch. What follows after the Partition was a catastrophe resulting in horrific sectarian violence; the displacement of more than 15 million people; and worst of all: a lasting, violent legacy endured by the people of different religious backgrounds in India and Pakistan which continues to this day.
“Yes, we had to run for our lives from people who looked like us, spoke like us, had lived beside us. We ran clutching limited belongings, without a second glance back at our ancestral lands, without saying goodbye to those we loved. Because love we did. Before they divided us. Before we became beasts that killed and maimed each other in the most monstrous ways.”
Another aspect that I appreciated about Hidden Fires was that the author not only focuses on Rubi and her grandfather but also gave glimpses of the lives and struggles of the people around them. At first I was worried that it might be trying to tackle too many things at once, but the smooth writing made everything blend effortlessly and before long, I found myself caring deeply for not just these two, but also for Rubi’s parents, her late grandmothers, and other relatives in their family. All in all, I really adored this novel. I knew so little about the history of the Partition of India but I am fascinated now to read more books set during this period — recommendations are greatly welcomed. I also look forward to reading his debut novel, The Family Tree after this.
Thank you Times Reads for the review copy. I really appreciate it.
This was an unexpectedly haunting read tinged with hope, humour and resilience. Most of Hidden Fires is set in Britain, where we witness Rubi’s struggle with insecurity and loneliness; Grandpa Yusuf’s attempt to bury his past and their growing friendship. There’s also this lingering mystery of Grandpa Yusuf’s nightmares, and what happened to him while he was living in India during the Partition. As engrossing as the “revelation” was, it was not an easy read by any stretch. What follows after the Partition was a catastrophe resulting in horrific sectarian violence; the displacement of more than 15 million people; and worst of all: a lasting, violent legacy endured by the people of different religious backgrounds in India and Pakistan which continues to this day.
“Yes, we had to run for our lives from people who looked like us, spoke like us, had lived beside us. We ran clutching limited belongings, without a second glance back at our ancestral lands, without saying goodbye to those we loved. Because love we did. Before they divided us. Before we became beasts that killed and maimed each other in the most monstrous ways.”
Another aspect that I appreciated about Hidden Fires was that the author not only focuses on Rubi and her grandfather but also gave glimpses of the lives and struggles of the people around them. At first I was worried that it might be trying to tackle too many things at once, but the smooth writing made everything blend effortlessly and before long, I found myself caring deeply for not just these two, but also for Rubi’s parents, her late grandmothers, and other relatives in their family. All in all, I really adored this novel. I knew so little about the history of the Partition of India but I am fascinated now to read more books set during this period — recommendations are greatly welcomed. I also look forward to reading his debut novel, The Family Tree after this.
Thank you Times Reads for the review copy. I really appreciate it.
September 21, 2024
Picked this book up yesterday. Plowed through it today. Cried. And then cried some more. Emotionally wrecked. Go read it.
Features a British Pakistani grandfather, his troubled granddaughter, and themes of trauma (bullying; Grenfell Towers fire; Partition). Very heavy content. Beautiful portrayal of grandfather/ granddaughter relationship and of aging parents. Adult fiction but okay for anyone 14+ (maybe older if they're sensitive).
I'm such a mess over this book that I'm not even going to attempt to wax lyrical over it. Just... I need you to feel as wrecked as I do.
4.9/5 🌟
#bookstagram #Muslimbookstagram #MyMuslimShelfSpace #OwnVoices #weneeddiversebooks #diversereads #diversebooks #bookreview #fiction #Muslimfiction #Partition #history #intergenerational #family #trauma #HiddenFires #books
Features a British Pakistani grandfather, his troubled granddaughter, and themes of trauma (bullying; Grenfell Towers fire; Partition). Very heavy content. Beautiful portrayal of grandfather/ granddaughter relationship and of aging parents. Adult fiction but okay for anyone 14+ (maybe older if they're sensitive).
I'm such a mess over this book that I'm not even going to attempt to wax lyrical over it. Just... I need you to feel as wrecked as I do.
4.9/5 🌟
#bookstagram #Muslimbookstagram #MyMuslimShelfSpace #OwnVoices #weneeddiversebooks #diversereads #diversebooks #bookreview #fiction #Muslimfiction #Partition #history #intergenerational #family #trauma #HiddenFires #books
March 27, 2024
(3.75) my heart aches for yusuf...💔 his life, both past and present, reflects the lives of so many pakistani immigrants who struggle in silence, their pain overlooked and mostly unheard of. honestly such an important reminder to be a comfort to your grandparents, your parents, everyone around you who you care for and care for you tbh 💗
September 30, 2023
My thoughts about Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires is such a heart-warming and heart-breaking partition story, Its also is a story of human resilience, forgiveness, closure. In times where we all are sturggling with being away from our families, our generation having lesser emotional connect with grandparents, books like this make us reconnect with those feelings. Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires story line is stirring and is so very much emotional. Sairish’s book is honestly is a clean, light hearted family book with a story. The ending bought tears in my eyes. Writer Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires story begins in Ramadan, 2017. Yusuf wakes up in the middle of the night to pray. His routine is always the same, but something tells him that tonight is different. Yellow flames blur Yusuf’s vision, and the laughter of a small child echoes in his ears. But this time, the red, smoke-filled skies aren’t just in his memory. Miles away, Rubi is also awake. On the television, she watches reports of a devastating fire in London. She is already anxious when her parents send her to stay with her Grandpa Yusuf, whose conservative house rules are almost as unbearable as the loneliness she feels at home. Yusuf’s lifestyle does not gel with Rubi’s. But when she finds him scared and confused one night, it becomes clear that there’s more to her grandfather than Rubi ever considered. As Yusuf grapples with the past, Rubi is determined to save him. But the memories that are recovered and spoken of for the first time in years are more painful than she could have imagined. Hidden Fires explores grief and loss, the power of family ties, and the long arm of history. The characters in Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires,bare well written and well justified, that will make you fall in love with them. I don’t think anyone could have written a better story than Sairish has, she surely needs a standing ovation, the way she has written the story and balanced the characters are unviable. The story is not only well written, Sairish has researched the 1947 India and Pakistan partition history perfectly. without a second thought I will say one thing Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires will leave an impact on you which you will never forget. Overall Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires is a well balanced and well written a coming of age story. I would like to say a big thank you to author Sairish Hussain, who I’ve been a big fan since her debut The Family Tree, and HQ Stories for kindly sending me a arc copy for me to read and review this brilliant book. Sairish Hussain’s Hidden Fires is a must read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥💥💥💥💥💥
February 2, 2024
I wanted to like this book given the representation that it is meant to bring to South Asian culture, but it’d be untruthful to say that it did that justice.
Firstly, not only are there are numerous grammar mistakes, but Chapter 51 massively confused me: it is meant to be written from Hassan’s point of view but some parts are written in first-person and some parts in third-person! The lack of proofreading just goes to show how rushed this novel was.
Secondly, Rubi’s voice was forced. It just screams “adult pretends to know what youngsters are like.” Using phrases like “I got jumped” and “FFS” just made it cringeworthy.
Overall, the traumas that the characters went through were not portrayed very well, often glossed over through clumsy writing and dialogues - though personally, the lack of proofreading before publishing was enough to put me off. Some of the events and secondary characters are not even interconnected or well-developed. It is a shame as the Partition and issues such as self-harming need a light shed on them, but this was not the book that did that. Even the mention of Grenfell Tower - such a poignant moment in British history - was mentioned in passing. Why mention it at all if it is not going to be a good tribute? Felt that the comments surrounding it was quite reductionist and at times disrespectful (comments such as “a whole bloody building goes up in flames” and [The fire engines are] Like Mickey Mouse trying to fight Godzilla” and “‘What is this building called again?’ Ashraf is talking. I sigh. He won’t drop it.”)
I wish this was less disappointing for me, truly. It was just not my cup of tea, but it might be someone else’s!
Firstly, not only are there are numerous grammar mistakes, but Chapter 51 massively confused me: it is meant to be written from Hassan’s point of view but some parts are written in first-person and some parts in third-person! The lack of proofreading just goes to show how rushed this novel was.
Secondly, Rubi’s voice was forced. It just screams “adult pretends to know what youngsters are like.” Using phrases like “I got jumped” and “FFS” just made it cringeworthy.
Overall, the traumas that the characters went through were not portrayed very well, often glossed over through clumsy writing and dialogues - though personally, the lack of proofreading before publishing was enough to put me off. Some of the events and secondary characters are not even interconnected or well-developed. It is a shame as the Partition and issues such as self-harming need a light shed on them, but this was not the book that did that. Even the mention of Grenfell Tower - such a poignant moment in British history - was mentioned in passing. Why mention it at all if it is not going to be a good tribute? Felt that the comments surrounding it was quite reductionist and at times disrespectful (comments such as “a whole bloody building goes up in flames” and [The fire engines are] Like Mickey Mouse trying to fight Godzilla” and “‘What is this building called again?’ Ashraf is talking. I sigh. He won’t drop it.”)
I wish this was less disappointing for me, truly. It was just not my cup of tea, but it might be someone else’s!
Read
October 15, 2024A wonderful writer whose writing brings about empathy with all the family members in this story, I had a great deal of fondness for all of them by the end. Loss, grief and trauma are big themes of the book, and there were aspects of the story that were very upsetting to read.
May 2, 2024
I am glad I have another book that goes straight to my top reads list this year. Hidden Fires is a heartwarming and well-crafted story of a family saga that tackles tough topics such as loneliness, self-harm, bullying, dementia, and trauma. Despite the heavy themes, the writing is fantastic and has some humorous moments, adding charm to the book. What I love the most is the relationship between Grandpa Yusuf and his granddaughter, Rubi ♡
The book begins on the night of the 2017 Ramadan, when the Grenfell Tower fire happened, which profoundly impacting both main characters. Yusuf is recently widowed and is experiencing nightmares from his past, and Rubi is grieving the unfairness of the tragedy. They have lost contact over the years, and suddenly, Rubi has to stay with Yusuf when her parents go to Spain.
The story is told in three POVs from three generations, namely Yusuf, Rubi, and Hassan, and I always appreciate this writing style as it offers a more in-depth understanding of each character. The author has skilfully crafted each character in the story to have a distinct voice that powerfully conveys their age and perspective. The characters are compelling and easy to love.
Yusuf is an older man who reminds me of Ove from A Man Called Ove because he is lonely after his wife dies. Reading his POV was heartbreaking, and learning about the reason for his nightmares was indeed heart-wrenching.
Rubi is a typical teenager who rebels against her parents, but deep down, she struggles with her own issues. She's been bullied and traumatized in the past, but she keeps it to herself because she doesn't want to burden her parents, who are already dealing with her sick mother. It's heartbreaking to see her struggle.
Hassan, Rubi's father, is trying his best to take care of his sick wife and support Rubi. It was not easy, and I could feel his exhaustion and stress. But he tries to make things right when he learns about Rubi's struggles. When his father is diagnosed with dementia, he takes Yusuf in to live with him, and it's not an easy job to take care of someone with dementia. Hassan did a great job in this book.
I love how the characters develop throughout the story, especially Rubi. She goes from being a rebellious teenager to a caring and understanding granddaughter. Her taking care of Yusuf towards the end of the story is truly heartwarming.
This book is divided into four parts, and the story's development is captivating. The excellent writing pulled me into the story and kept me engaged until the end.
I appreciate how the author sheds light on the Partition of India, a dark historical moment, and its impact on the people involved. The author's ability to explain the events in a way that evokes emotions is genuinely remarkable. My empathy for Yusuf is evident as I recount the story of his past with his brother Ali and how he feels guilty for being the only one who survived.
It's not uncommon for families to drift apart over time, but when this happens, it can be difficult for everyone involved. This book shows that by opening up to one another and sharing their hopes and fears, and emphasizing the importance of spending time with loved ones, families can come back together and form an even stronger bond than before ♡
Overall, Hidden Fires is a captivating and emotional story that keeps me invested in the writing, characters, and storyline. I highly recommend this book.
4.5 ★
Thank you, Times Reads, for the review copy 🫶🏻
The book begins on the night of the 2017 Ramadan, when the Grenfell Tower fire happened, which profoundly impacting both main characters. Yusuf is recently widowed and is experiencing nightmares from his past, and Rubi is grieving the unfairness of the tragedy. They have lost contact over the years, and suddenly, Rubi has to stay with Yusuf when her parents go to Spain.
The story is told in three POVs from three generations, namely Yusuf, Rubi, and Hassan, and I always appreciate this writing style as it offers a more in-depth understanding of each character. The author has skilfully crafted each character in the story to have a distinct voice that powerfully conveys their age and perspective. The characters are compelling and easy to love.
Yusuf is an older man who reminds me of Ove from A Man Called Ove because he is lonely after his wife dies. Reading his POV was heartbreaking, and learning about the reason for his nightmares was indeed heart-wrenching.
Rubi is a typical teenager who rebels against her parents, but deep down, she struggles with her own issues. She's been bullied and traumatized in the past, but she keeps it to herself because she doesn't want to burden her parents, who are already dealing with her sick mother. It's heartbreaking to see her struggle.
Hassan, Rubi's father, is trying his best to take care of his sick wife and support Rubi. It was not easy, and I could feel his exhaustion and stress. But he tries to make things right when he learns about Rubi's struggles. When his father is diagnosed with dementia, he takes Yusuf in to live with him, and it's not an easy job to take care of someone with dementia. Hassan did a great job in this book.
I love how the characters develop throughout the story, especially Rubi. She goes from being a rebellious teenager to a caring and understanding granddaughter. Her taking care of Yusuf towards the end of the story is truly heartwarming.
This book is divided into four parts, and the story's development is captivating. The excellent writing pulled me into the story and kept me engaged until the end.
I appreciate how the author sheds light on the Partition of India, a dark historical moment, and its impact on the people involved. The author's ability to explain the events in a way that evokes emotions is genuinely remarkable. My empathy for Yusuf is evident as I recount the story of his past with his brother Ali and how he feels guilty for being the only one who survived.
It's not uncommon for families to drift apart over time, but when this happens, it can be difficult for everyone involved. This book shows that by opening up to one another and sharing their hopes and fears, and emphasizing the importance of spending time with loved ones, families can come back together and form an even stronger bond than before ♡
Overall, Hidden Fires is a captivating and emotional story that keeps me invested in the writing, characters, and storyline. I highly recommend this book.
4.5 ★
Thank you, Times Reads, for the review copy 🫶🏻
January 30, 2025
Grandpa Yusuf and Rubi have my entire heart! Their relationship was so beautiful to watch.
There’s a part when Yusuf said to Hassan whilst talking about Rubi, he said, “don’t take my light home and dim it”… I wish Rubi got to eavesdrop on her grandpi calling her his light.
This is the second book I’ve read that speaks about the partition. The first book was Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. The horrors of that event has left such a profound impact on people that experienced it and their descendants. It is absolutely harrowing.
This book covers a multitude of sensitive topics that the author handled it with so much grace.
I was constantly cheering for Rubi and I’m so glad she was was able to feel the love of her grandpi 🥹🥹
There’s a part when Yusuf said to Hassan whilst talking about Rubi, he said, “don’t take my light home and dim it”… I wish Rubi got to eavesdrop on her grandpi calling her his light.
This is the second book I’ve read that speaks about the partition. The first book was Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. The horrors of that event has left such a profound impact on people that experienced it and their descendants. It is absolutely harrowing.
This book covers a multitude of sensitive topics that the author handled it with so much grace.
I was constantly cheering for Rubi and I’m so glad she was was able to feel the love of her grandpi 🥹🥹
November 23, 2024
I read this book over two days, and finished the last page of in the early hours of the morning today. I closed the book and promptly burst into tears from all the emotions this incredible book stirred within me. This book follows the story of Yusuf, who is 80 years old and who lost his wife last year. He has lived alone since then. Waking up for Fajr one morning he sees news coverage of the Grenfell fire, and it triggers memories and fears that he has kept buried for a long time. He has two sons and a daughter and the novel also follows his youngest son’s daughter named Rubi. Rubi’s father is a social worker and her mother has fibromyalgia and as a family they have lost sight of each other a bit. This change when his granddaughter comes to live with him while her parents are away.
This book is about aging, about male friendships between elders, about the important roles mosques play for social contact, about taking care of your older neighbours, about the grief of losing a spouse, about the loss of autonomy and strength, about grandparent-granddaughter relationships, about the trauma of Partition, about how the older people in our life can change our life for the better and what it means to care for one another. It brought tears to my eyes more than once because the main character is so endearing. 4.25 to 4.5 stars.
This book is about aging, about male friendships between elders, about the important roles mosques play for social contact, about taking care of your older neighbours, about the grief of losing a spouse, about the loss of autonomy and strength, about grandparent-granddaughter relationships, about the trauma of Partition, about how the older people in our life can change our life for the better and what it means to care for one another. It brought tears to my eyes more than once because the main character is so endearing. 4.25 to 4.5 stars.
December 11, 2023
Sairish Hussain does it again with this complicated story of a grandfather and granddaughter stuck by circumstances who try and get to know each other again.
Each has secrets that finally come out over the course of their time together.
Like her previous book, The Family Tree it’s multi POV so you see things from Rubi, her grandfather and her dad’s POV which makes it multi layered.
Against the background of the Grenfell tower tragedy and exploring the horrors of partition this is a must read book.
Each has secrets that finally come out over the course of their time together.
Like her previous book, The Family Tree it’s multi POV so you see things from Rubi, her grandfather and her dad’s POV which makes it multi layered.
Against the background of the Grenfell tower tragedy and exploring the horrors of partition this is a must read book.
January 3, 2025
This is a beautiful story about the relationship between a grandfather, Yusuf, and his teenage granddaughter, Rubi. Sairish Hussain is slowly becoming one of my favorite authors, and it genuinely hurts to see how criminally underrated she is. I’ve read The Family Tree, and I still think about how it made me feel to this very day.
What I love about her writing is how she captures the rhythm of a typical day in a Muslim household—the five daily prayers, fasting, the emphasis on modesty, and good character. At the same time, she portrays struggling Muslims who are aware of their shortcomings and still trying, without falling into the trap of highlighting liberalism, which many authors tend to overdo. If you’re looking for an authentic representation of practicing Muslims, her books are the perfect choice.
Her characters are so deeply layered that they feel like real people rather than just names on a page. In this multigenerational family story, Hussain explores how different generations grapple with their own unique struggles and the roles each family member plays.
In a time when feminist narratives dominate, I found it refreshing how Hidden Fires highlights the immense weight of responsibility that a man carries in his household. From providing for his family and taking care of his wife to being there for his children and fulfilling his duties as a son to his parents, the story really made me feel Hasan’s burnout. As a Muslim, I also appreciated how it reflects the responsibilities of a husband—providing food, clothing, and shelter for his wife, protecting her emotionally and physically, and being a source of comfort and support.
I loved how Yusuf and Rubi found solace in each other’s company, helping one another heal from their traumas. Their growing bond made me wonder what it would have been like to live with my own grandfathers, both of whom passed away before I was born or when I was still a baby.
The story also touches on the challenges of being a caretaker, especially for someone whose health is deteriorating physically and mentally, and the patience it takes to embrace both the good and bad days in a marriage. I appreciated the glimpse into interracial marriages and the struggles of finding acceptance from both families, which added another layer of depth to the narrative.
One fascinating thing I learned from the book was about the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 and the Sikh-Muslim tensions that led to violence during that time.
If you’re a fan of Fredrik Backman and are looking for something with similar emotional depth but set in a Muslim context, Sairish Hussain’s books are an absolute must-read.
What I love about her writing is how she captures the rhythm of a typical day in a Muslim household—the five daily prayers, fasting, the emphasis on modesty, and good character. At the same time, she portrays struggling Muslims who are aware of their shortcomings and still trying, without falling into the trap of highlighting liberalism, which many authors tend to overdo. If you’re looking for an authentic representation of practicing Muslims, her books are the perfect choice.
Her characters are so deeply layered that they feel like real people rather than just names on a page. In this multigenerational family story, Hussain explores how different generations grapple with their own unique struggles and the roles each family member plays.
In a time when feminist narratives dominate, I found it refreshing how Hidden Fires highlights the immense weight of responsibility that a man carries in his household. From providing for his family and taking care of his wife to being there for his children and fulfilling his duties as a son to his parents, the story really made me feel Hasan’s burnout. As a Muslim, I also appreciated how it reflects the responsibilities of a husband—providing food, clothing, and shelter for his wife, protecting her emotionally and physically, and being a source of comfort and support.
I loved how Yusuf and Rubi found solace in each other’s company, helping one another heal from their traumas. Their growing bond made me wonder what it would have been like to live with my own grandfathers, both of whom passed away before I was born or when I was still a baby.
The story also touches on the challenges of being a caretaker, especially for someone whose health is deteriorating physically and mentally, and the patience it takes to embrace both the good and bad days in a marriage. I appreciated the glimpse into interracial marriages and the struggles of finding acceptance from both families, which added another layer of depth to the narrative.
One fascinating thing I learned from the book was about the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 and the Sikh-Muslim tensions that led to violence during that time.
If you’re a fan of Fredrik Backman and are looking for something with similar emotional depth but set in a Muslim context, Sairish Hussain’s books are an absolute must-read.
November 23, 2025
A beautiful, but haunting story set in Manchester and Bradford, where a granddaughter is unexpectedly left with her aging Pakistani grandfather. What unfolds is a beautiful inter generational bond, that explores the violence of Partition, dementia, bullying, self harm, and the challenges of being an unpaid carer.
Whilst these heavy topics are explored and the violence of Partition is outlined, it is done so swiftly, with snippets of history explored. I suppose this replicates the silence of this generation and the limited information shared. What has surprised me most is this isn't covered within the curriculum. I will definitely be researching more. Thank you to Sairish Hussain for visiting our local library and writing this moving story which shines a light on so many issues.
Whilst these heavy topics are explored and the violence of Partition is outlined, it is done so swiftly, with snippets of history explored. I suppose this replicates the silence of this generation and the limited information shared. What has surprised me most is this isn't covered within the curriculum. I will definitely be researching more. Thank you to Sairish Hussain for visiting our local library and writing this moving story which shines a light on so many issues.
May 25, 2024
I was so excited for this book to come out, already an admirer of Hussain’s first novel “The Family Tree”; I knew Hidden Fires would be a good read.
But, it exceeded my expectations, she has once again given us a wonderful story.
I looked forward to being a part of Yusuf and Rubi’s life everyday since picking up the book, I laughed with them, I cried with them and finally, with great sadness, I said goodbye to them.
What a stunning read.
But, it exceeded my expectations, she has once again given us a wonderful story.
I looked forward to being a part of Yusuf and Rubi’s life everyday since picking up the book, I laughed with them, I cried with them and finally, with great sadness, I said goodbye to them.
What a stunning read.
October 6, 2024
Beautiful book with interesting and insightful perspectives. Very moving and well-paced. The characters felt very real and flawed in ways that make them so much more human.
July 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this story of a granddaughter and grandfather building their relationship through stories of his past. Easy read but emotional too!
Minus one star because I thought there would have been a bit more coverage about the partition of India.
Minus one star because I thought there would have been a bit more coverage about the partition of India.
May 29, 2024
The story of a Pakistani family in Northern England and how it copes with the past and the present. Yusuf, a widower in his 80s and a survivor of The Partition, is struggling with his age and the memories from his childhood, that increasingly haunt him, as his emotional self control waivers. Hassan, Yusuf's son, is struggling with juggling his commitments to his sick wife, his teenage daughter, his ailing father, and his job a social worker. Rubi, Hassan's daughter, struggles with her weight and being bullied at school. As the story progresses we learn more about each family member, and as the secret haunting Yusuf emerges, the healing process for him and the family as a whole starts.
The book's main themes, for me at least, were the relationship between a grandfather and his granddaughter, and how the generational distance and estrangement can still form the basis of healing and family over time. The other theme is, naturally, the terrible impact of The Partition on those who survived it, and the almost social stigma surrounding discussing it, leading to repressed emotions and aggravated trauma that just grows over time.
I loved this book, and struggled to stop crying for the last 30% of it, and literally cried non stop for most of this time. The book is not really a tearjerker, but rather a tender and gentle exploration of family and communication, and, most importantly, the healing power of the latter. This is the universal power of this book - too many families get by and sometimes even suffer in silence.
What I loved most is indeed this tender description of the characters and their emotional backstories. It's profound and humane and loving. It is difficult to not get affected by the protagonists, and not identify with their struggles and joys.
I also loved the pacing of the story. Despite it being essentially a family saga, it was hard to put down, and I kept wanting to find our what happens next.
The only thing that perhaps could be better is essentially the ending. While not necessarily "good", it does somehow come across as almost too perfect. But it does leave one with a smile, hope, and trust in humanity.
Recommend it to anyone with a family - or just anyone. It's a joyful and moving read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an early copy of this book in return for an honest review.
The book's main themes, for me at least, were the relationship between a grandfather and his granddaughter, and how the generational distance and estrangement can still form the basis of healing and family over time. The other theme is, naturally, the terrible impact of The Partition on those who survived it, and the almost social stigma surrounding discussing it, leading to repressed emotions and aggravated trauma that just grows over time.
I loved this book, and struggled to stop crying for the last 30% of it, and literally cried non stop for most of this time. The book is not really a tearjerker, but rather a tender and gentle exploration of family and communication, and, most importantly, the healing power of the latter. This is the universal power of this book - too many families get by and sometimes even suffer in silence.
What I loved most is indeed this tender description of the characters and their emotional backstories. It's profound and humane and loving. It is difficult to not get affected by the protagonists, and not identify with their struggles and joys.
I also loved the pacing of the story. Despite it being essentially a family saga, it was hard to put down, and I kept wanting to find our what happens next.
The only thing that perhaps could be better is essentially the ending. While not necessarily "good", it does somehow come across as almost too perfect. But it does leave one with a smile, hope, and trust in humanity.
Recommend it to anyone with a family - or just anyone. It's a joyful and moving read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an early copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 1, 2024
This was one of the first books I read in 2024 and I guarantee it's going to make it to my top ten of this year.
Sairish Hussain has done it again. This time she weaves together the story of partition, a father and son relationship and a grandfather and granddaughter relationship.
I can't even put together words in coherent sentences to tell you what I thought of this book but what I will say is that it has got everything I look for in a top novel:
· Complicated family dynamics
· Historical events (in this case it was the partition and Grenfell)
· Older people
· Generational secrets
· Community
Do yourself a favour and read this book. I promise you, you won't regret it.
Sairish Hussain has done it again. This time she weaves together the story of partition, a father and son relationship and a grandfather and granddaughter relationship.
I can't even put together words in coherent sentences to tell you what I thought of this book but what I will say is that it has got everything I look for in a top novel:
· Complicated family dynamics
· Historical events (in this case it was the partition and Grenfell)
· Older people
· Generational secrets
· Community
Do yourself a favour and read this book. I promise you, you won't regret it.
March 11, 2024
{15/2024} 4/5🌟 General Fiction | 377 pages
Each of us would have our two sets of grandparents. I already lost them from both sides. I didn’t get the chance to meet my maternal grandfather as he left the world when my mama was very young while my maternal grandmother left us when she was performing her Hajj when I was very young. I lost my paternal grandfather a year after my mama left us, and my paternal grandmother left the world just barely a few years ago in a condition just like one of the characters in this book.
Naturally, I would have spent more time with my paternal grandparents. My atuk was a man with not many words. A very strict and disciplined man, what else could we say for an ex-headmaster. My nenek was this talkative homemaker, who enjoyed being the nucleus centre when all the relatives visited her. What I remember most about her was that she used to sew my baju raya when I was a little girl.
Reading “Hidden Fires” certainly brought back those memories as the story tells us of the love between a grandfather and a granddaughter.
With the background story of Grenfell Tower tragedy in London, it tells us about Yusuf, an elderly whose daily routine was to wake up in the middle of the night to perform his prayers, and was distraught one night during Ramadan, after seeing the news of the tragedy on television. It had somehow triggered an old memory that he had somehow tried to forget. The fire reminded him of someone. Someone who had been haunting him.
In another location, Yusuf’s granddaughter, Rubi, was also awake, only to see the same news on TV which somehow had devastated her. Rubi was not only devastated with the news, but with her life too. She felt empty. From being an only child to a mixed-parentage, to having parents who had problems of their own, she always felt alone because nobody understood what she was feeling inside.
A few days later, something had happened that had caused Rubi to be sent to Yusuf’s house. Rubi was anxious as it was so long ago that she had to be this close with her grandfather. Grandpa Yusuf was not only conservative, he was annoying too, Rubi thought. It was different when Grandma Zareena was around. They were always at loggerheads until Rubi found Grandpa Yusuf in a situation she never would have had expected.
Rubi knew she had to find out what happened in Grandpa Yusuf’s past, and she knew it had something to do with what happened during the Partition 1947 after accidentally watching a documentary about it together with her grandfather.
She knew she had to find out but then was she doing it to redeem herself or was she doing it for her grandpa?
I. love. the. story.
It is heartwarming, funny, fluffy, tearjerking, grieving and it makes you miss your family - your grandparents mostly.
It also has history, moral values, and most importantly, self-loving mantra.
The story was told from three POVs. What makes it interesting, these three POVs represented the three generations of a family, each trying to tell and convince us the readers, why their arguments were valid. Their monologues are akin to all those personal confrontations we usually have in our heads - so we could see how different each character addresses their predicaments, writing style too. I personally love Rubi’s POV. She reminds me of myself because I do know I sound like her everytime I am talking to myself 🤣.
Besides the POVs, the story was also told in alternate timelines everytime the characters were reminded of something. I chuckled to myself when I was reading the love story between two characters, Hassan and Michelle, which certainly reminded me of some famous Hindi movies.
I love Rubi. She was resilient, hard-headed, sometimes rowdy but she still have that soft spot in her heart, empathy, and kindness. I love her relationship and all her small banters with Yusuf.
The story certainly tackles one major issue - trauma. Unfortunately, the burdens of the past were carried by two of the main characters though differently. Each of them trying to take measures on their own in the hope of not troubling people around them but without them realising, it was eating them from inside. I also love the family and small community themes portrayed in the story which was to me so endearing.
Reading the story certainly reminds me of “The Collected Regrets of Clover” and both Sara Nisha Adams’ books. It certainly brought tears to my eyes while reading. I had a thoughful and insightful discussion with my buddy-read gang concerning the issues portrayed in the story.
Thank you #timesreads for this review copy in exchange with my personal honest opinion.
#justreaddontbawang #bookmehnia #MarchReads #MarchTBRs #bookstagrammalaysia #bookstagrammy #malaysiamembaca #bookstagrammer #bookgram #bibliophile #bibliophilemy #bookish #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #bookish #readersofinstagram #goodreads #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #letsmarchforbooks #hiddenfires #sairishhussain
Each of us would have our two sets of grandparents. I already lost them from both sides. I didn’t get the chance to meet my maternal grandfather as he left the world when my mama was very young while my maternal grandmother left us when she was performing her Hajj when I was very young. I lost my paternal grandfather a year after my mama left us, and my paternal grandmother left the world just barely a few years ago in a condition just like one of the characters in this book.
Naturally, I would have spent more time with my paternal grandparents. My atuk was a man with not many words. A very strict and disciplined man, what else could we say for an ex-headmaster. My nenek was this talkative homemaker, who enjoyed being the nucleus centre when all the relatives visited her. What I remember most about her was that she used to sew my baju raya when I was a little girl.
Reading “Hidden Fires” certainly brought back those memories as the story tells us of the love between a grandfather and a granddaughter.
With the background story of Grenfell Tower tragedy in London, it tells us about Yusuf, an elderly whose daily routine was to wake up in the middle of the night to perform his prayers, and was distraught one night during Ramadan, after seeing the news of the tragedy on television. It had somehow triggered an old memory that he had somehow tried to forget. The fire reminded him of someone. Someone who had been haunting him.
In another location, Yusuf’s granddaughter, Rubi, was also awake, only to see the same news on TV which somehow had devastated her. Rubi was not only devastated with the news, but with her life too. She felt empty. From being an only child to a mixed-parentage, to having parents who had problems of their own, she always felt alone because nobody understood what she was feeling inside.
A few days later, something had happened that had caused Rubi to be sent to Yusuf’s house. Rubi was anxious as it was so long ago that she had to be this close with her grandfather. Grandpa Yusuf was not only conservative, he was annoying too, Rubi thought. It was different when Grandma Zareena was around. They were always at loggerheads until Rubi found Grandpa Yusuf in a situation she never would have had expected.
Rubi knew she had to find out what happened in Grandpa Yusuf’s past, and she knew it had something to do with what happened during the Partition 1947 after accidentally watching a documentary about it together with her grandfather.
She knew she had to find out but then was she doing it to redeem herself or was she doing it for her grandpa?
I. love. the. story.
It is heartwarming, funny, fluffy, tearjerking, grieving and it makes you miss your family - your grandparents mostly.
It also has history, moral values, and most importantly, self-loving mantra.
The story was told from three POVs. What makes it interesting, these three POVs represented the three generations of a family, each trying to tell and convince us the readers, why their arguments were valid. Their monologues are akin to all those personal confrontations we usually have in our heads - so we could see how different each character addresses their predicaments, writing style too. I personally love Rubi’s POV. She reminds me of myself because I do know I sound like her everytime I am talking to myself 🤣.
Besides the POVs, the story was also told in alternate timelines everytime the characters were reminded of something. I chuckled to myself when I was reading the love story between two characters, Hassan and Michelle, which certainly reminded me of some famous Hindi movies.
I love Rubi. She was resilient, hard-headed, sometimes rowdy but she still have that soft spot in her heart, empathy, and kindness. I love her relationship and all her small banters with Yusuf.
The story certainly tackles one major issue - trauma. Unfortunately, the burdens of the past were carried by two of the main characters though differently. Each of them trying to take measures on their own in the hope of not troubling people around them but without them realising, it was eating them from inside. I also love the family and small community themes portrayed in the story which was to me so endearing.
Reading the story certainly reminds me of “The Collected Regrets of Clover” and both Sara Nisha Adams’ books. It certainly brought tears to my eyes while reading. I had a thoughful and insightful discussion with my buddy-read gang concerning the issues portrayed in the story.
Thank you #timesreads for this review copy in exchange with my personal honest opinion.
#justreaddontbawang #bookmehnia #MarchReads #MarchTBRs #bookstagrammalaysia #bookstagrammy #malaysiamembaca #bookstagrammer #bookgram #bibliophile #bibliophilemy #bookish #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #bookish #readersofinstagram #goodreads #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #letsmarchforbooks #hiddenfires #sairishhussain
December 16, 2024
I will not be getting over this book any time soon. It broke my heart, and all my other critical organs, in the most delightfully well-done way possible, and undoubtedly I am better for it. I don't read a lot of adult fiction these days, and with some diabetic retinopathy concerns, I couldn't read the 384 page adult book about generational trauma, partition, the Grenfell Tower fire, family dynamics, bullying, self-harm, and resilience, but was pulled in to the audio book version instead. The Desi-British voices of Yusuf, Rubi, and Hassan were refreshing to my American ears. The multi-perspective book told in parts richly develops the characters, their relationships, and their current, past, and future struggles. The author is Muslim, as are the characters, and while they all practice in their own way, it is undoubtedly who they are, and their Islamic identity is not questioned, feared, blamed, or apologized for.
SYNOPSIS:The book weaves three distinct voices. Yusuf, is an 80 year old an immigrant who lived through partition, raised his family in the UK, has lost his wife a year prior, and is struggling with haunting memories of the past, failing health, regular loss of friends, and loneliness. Hassan, Yusuf's youngest son is a workaholic who is married to a non Muslim, non Desi who is suffering from fibromyalgia and who's mother unexpectedly passes away in Spain. Rubi, is Hassan's 16 year old girl who is overweight, bullied, lonely and about to take her GCSE exams when she is dumped on her grandfather Yusuf's door while her parents head to Spain. The book opens in Ramadan the night of the Grenfell Tower fire and the horrific event affects them all, stirs memories, and shapes futures. From there the layers of each character slowly unravel as they cope with the swiftly changing present as they desperately work to break free from the past. As dementia plagues Yusuf, Rubi finds purpose in being needed, and Hassan is forced to re-prioritize his life before it is too late.
WHY I LIKE IT:The book takes a slow approach to building up the characters and their back stories. It is almost feels like world building as a book would if it were a fantasy, it doesn't info dump, but at some point the hooks are so deeply embedded that you really cannot leave the characters and their world and you have to finish the book, just to ensure they are ok. Because I listened to the book, I feel like there might have been some Islamic content that was not completely ok, but again I was having vision issues and couldn't note where to go back and check. I think it is fine, and because it is an adult read, I think the audience can discern accuracy, but please know, I'm not 100% green lighting the Islamic rep. It is undoubtedly well done and fasting and praying are a part of the characters, but their relationship to their faith and their understanding of it, is presented as theirs, it doesn't get preachy or make broad statements about Muslims everywhere or Islamic doctrine.
FLAGS:There is body shaming, self-harm, trauma, death, torture, killing, lying, abuse, fear, guilt, dementia, bullying, assault, physical violence, drug use (mentioned), attempted suicide (mentioned), music, theft, make-up, close male and female relationships, Muslim marrying a non-Muslim, hallucinations.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:I think mature high school seniors or possibly even juniors could benefit from this book with discussions. I think Rubi's voice tied to her father and grandfather, will really open up youngsters perspectives, and provide a great vehicle to hear their thoughts, fears, worries, concerns about body image, self harm, aging grandparents, accessibility to parents, etc..
SYNOPSIS:The book weaves three distinct voices. Yusuf, is an 80 year old an immigrant who lived through partition, raised his family in the UK, has lost his wife a year prior, and is struggling with haunting memories of the past, failing health, regular loss of friends, and loneliness. Hassan, Yusuf's youngest son is a workaholic who is married to a non Muslim, non Desi who is suffering from fibromyalgia and who's mother unexpectedly passes away in Spain. Rubi, is Hassan's 16 year old girl who is overweight, bullied, lonely and about to take her GCSE exams when she is dumped on her grandfather Yusuf's door while her parents head to Spain. The book opens in Ramadan the night of the Grenfell Tower fire and the horrific event affects them all, stirs memories, and shapes futures. From there the layers of each character slowly unravel as they cope with the swiftly changing present as they desperately work to break free from the past. As dementia plagues Yusuf, Rubi finds purpose in being needed, and Hassan is forced to re-prioritize his life before it is too late.
WHY I LIKE IT:The book takes a slow approach to building up the characters and their back stories. It is almost feels like world building as a book would if it were a fantasy, it doesn't info dump, but at some point the hooks are so deeply embedded that you really cannot leave the characters and their world and you have to finish the book, just to ensure they are ok. Because I listened to the book, I feel like there might have been some Islamic content that was not completely ok, but again I was having vision issues and couldn't note where to go back and check. I think it is fine, and because it is an adult read, I think the audience can discern accuracy, but please know, I'm not 100% green lighting the Islamic rep. It is undoubtedly well done and fasting and praying are a part of the characters, but their relationship to their faith and their understanding of it, is presented as theirs, it doesn't get preachy or make broad statements about Muslims everywhere or Islamic doctrine.
FLAGS:There is body shaming, self-harm, trauma, death, torture, killing, lying, abuse, fear, guilt, dementia, bullying, assault, physical violence, drug use (mentioned), attempted suicide (mentioned), music, theft, make-up, close male and female relationships, Muslim marrying a non-Muslim, hallucinations.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:I think mature high school seniors or possibly even juniors could benefit from this book with discussions. I think Rubi's voice tied to her father and grandfather, will really open up youngsters perspectives, and provide a great vehicle to hear their thoughts, fears, worries, concerns about body image, self harm, aging grandparents, accessibility to parents, etc..
January 3, 2024
A book about inter generational grief, the past and present, community and loneliness, life and death, connection and neglect, youth and elders, the Partition and Grenfell and in summary, it has simply made me yearn for my grandparents voice and touch that little bit more than usual. Sairish Hussain manages to pour out her heart and soul into the pages of this book. It has moved me to the point where I will remember this story for a lifetime.
The year is 2017. Rubi feels like the most relatable fictional character I have ever met - she doesn't really seem fictional at all. A 16 year old from a mixed race bg, Rubi battles the peer pressure of a hostile school environment, not quite knowing what she wants to do with her life whilst sitting her GCSEs, she finds herself being lugged to her Grandad Yusuf's house to stay for a few weeks whilst her parents have to travel abroad. Yusuf, a first generation immigrant, originally from Pakistan, is now over 80 years old. He still lives in Bradford at the first home he ever moved into. The walls have seen so much, his marriage to Zareena, the birth of their three children who have now flown the nest and then the occasional (which have gradually become infrequent) visits from the family, now extending to grandchildren. The exploration of the relationship between Rubi and Yusuf, how they find their feet with each other, spreads warmth within you, the generational gap almost seeming like a language barrier they have to navigate around. They differ in all aspects, their way of living, perspectives and lifestyle and yet...on closer look, they both battle demons, ones which may not differ all that much from one another. The book covers so many important themes, humans and their ability to heal, and in a nuanced way. It is so hard hitting and brutal at times but so necessary and pressing that you want to read more. A particular highlight is Hussain's efforts to educate on the Partition within the context of the story, how it was a single community filled with harmony before the horror, no single villain but monsters all around and a shared loss and unspeakable devastation and destruction.
The style of writing is beautiful, eloquent, as if you are reading Urdu prose. The difference between Rubi and Yusuf's perspective is deliberately varied, showing their respective age, and yet so charming in both respects. I would recommend this book to everyone and though I have an e-copy, I have ordered a physical copy for myself because of how much I love this. I was in tears at so many points, it has equally crushed and liberated me. Please check trigger warnings before reading. Thank you @netgalley and @hqstories for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest unedited review.
The year is 2017. Rubi feels like the most relatable fictional character I have ever met - she doesn't really seem fictional at all. A 16 year old from a mixed race bg, Rubi battles the peer pressure of a hostile school environment, not quite knowing what she wants to do with her life whilst sitting her GCSEs, she finds herself being lugged to her Grandad Yusuf's house to stay for a few weeks whilst her parents have to travel abroad. Yusuf, a first generation immigrant, originally from Pakistan, is now over 80 years old. He still lives in Bradford at the first home he ever moved into. The walls have seen so much, his marriage to Zareena, the birth of their three children who have now flown the nest and then the occasional (which have gradually become infrequent) visits from the family, now extending to grandchildren. The exploration of the relationship between Rubi and Yusuf, how they find their feet with each other, spreads warmth within you, the generational gap almost seeming like a language barrier they have to navigate around. They differ in all aspects, their way of living, perspectives and lifestyle and yet...on closer look, they both battle demons, ones which may not differ all that much from one another. The book covers so many important themes, humans and their ability to heal, and in a nuanced way. It is so hard hitting and brutal at times but so necessary and pressing that you want to read more. A particular highlight is Hussain's efforts to educate on the Partition within the context of the story, how it was a single community filled with harmony before the horror, no single villain but monsters all around and a shared loss and unspeakable devastation and destruction.
The style of writing is beautiful, eloquent, as if you are reading Urdu prose. The difference between Rubi and Yusuf's perspective is deliberately varied, showing their respective age, and yet so charming in both respects. I would recommend this book to everyone and though I have an e-copy, I have ordered a physical copy for myself because of how much I love this. I was in tears at so many points, it has equally crushed and liberated me. Please check trigger warnings before reading. Thank you @netgalley and @hqstories for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest unedited review.
November 30, 2024
a bridge between generations and a reminder of the painful histories many of us don’t know enough about. At its heart, the story delves into the Partition of India, a moment in history that shaped millions of lives but is often overlooked, especially in Western education systems. Hussain masterfully brings this chapter of our collective history to life, showing how its impact ripples across time and families.
Through the character of Yusuf, an 80-year-old grandfather living in Bradford, Hussain unveils the silent burdens carried by survivors of the Partition. His story, intertwined with his granddaughter Rubi’s struggles in present-day England, is a poignant reminder that the past is never really left behind—it lives on in our identities, relationships, and unspoken traumas. Yusuf’s voice, dignified yet brimming with suppressed emotion, is a powerful portrayal of resilience and the cost of silence.
What makes this exploration so powerful is Hussain’s bravery in confronting these stories. The Partition was a time of unimaginable loss, displacement, and violence—a history that many of us only hear in fragments, if at all. Through Hidden Fires, Hussain gives readers a window into this painful legacy, encouraging us to ask questions about our own family histories and the generational scars they might hold. Her decision to address the Partition isn’t just about recounting history; it’s about ensuring these stories are not forgotten.
This book is an emotional experience, not just for South Asian readers but for anyone who values understanding the human impact of historical events. Hussain’s detailed research and heartfelt writing shine through, making the Partition feel personal and immediate. It’s a testament to her skill as a writer that she can navigate such a heavy subject with sensitivity, authenticity, and hope.
Hidden Fires is essential reading—not just for its beautiful story but for its role in sparking conversations about history, memory, and identity. Hussain reminds us of the importance of remembering where we come from, even when it hurts, and of passing these stories down so that they are never lost. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you’ve read the last page.
For anyone who feels disconnected from their history or wants to better understand the long shadows cast by the Partition, this book is a must-read. Hussain has written something truly extraordinary—don’t miss it!  
Through the character of Yusuf, an 80-year-old grandfather living in Bradford, Hussain unveils the silent burdens carried by survivors of the Partition. His story, intertwined with his granddaughter Rubi’s struggles in present-day England, is a poignant reminder that the past is never really left behind—it lives on in our identities, relationships, and unspoken traumas. Yusuf’s voice, dignified yet brimming with suppressed emotion, is a powerful portrayal of resilience and the cost of silence.
What makes this exploration so powerful is Hussain’s bravery in confronting these stories. The Partition was a time of unimaginable loss, displacement, and violence—a history that many of us only hear in fragments, if at all. Through Hidden Fires, Hussain gives readers a window into this painful legacy, encouraging us to ask questions about our own family histories and the generational scars they might hold. Her decision to address the Partition isn’t just about recounting history; it’s about ensuring these stories are not forgotten.
This book is an emotional experience, not just for South Asian readers but for anyone who values understanding the human impact of historical events. Hussain’s detailed research and heartfelt writing shine through, making the Partition feel personal and immediate. It’s a testament to her skill as a writer that she can navigate such a heavy subject with sensitivity, authenticity, and hope.
Hidden Fires is essential reading—not just for its beautiful story but for its role in sparking conversations about history, memory, and identity. Hussain reminds us of the importance of remembering where we come from, even when it hurts, and of passing these stories down so that they are never lost. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you’ve read the last page.
For anyone who feels disconnected from their history or wants to better understand the long shadows cast by the Partition, this book is a must-read. Hussain has written something truly extraordinary—don’t miss it!  
December 16, 2023
Hidden Fires by Sairish Hussain is a powerful and absolutely heart-breaking novel that will mess with your emotions. It will make you angry as you witness the terrible consequences of man’s inhumanity to man, whilst simultaneously making you weep.
The novel is mainly set in Bradford in 2017, just at the time of the Grenfell Tower fire. The main characters are an eighty year old grandfather and his sixteen year old granddaughter. They are similar but different as both try to deal with their problems alone, whilst pretending all is well. “We’ve drifted away into our own corners of ourselves.” For the granddaughter, it is the bullies at school. For the grandfather it is guilt and loss that has followed him down seventy years after the dreadful events of partition in 1947 India and Pakistan.
The grandfather is not the only male, his age hiding guilty secrets connected with partition. Events haunted a generation. The reader is horrified and saddened for what theses young boys saw in 1947 – events, so shocking, they never left them. “We had to run for our lives from people who looked just like us, spoke like us, lived beside us.”
As her mother is ill and her father is a workaholic, the granddaughter is used to being alone. Her father is a social worker who helps other people’s kids but misses the trauma in his own daughter. “He’s too busy.”
The reader has great sympathies for both lead characters. We understand their isolation and loneliness. It is heartbreaking to hear the granddaughter say “Maybe I’m unlovable.”
There are many hard-hitting topics – partition which we need to be educated on, bullying, dementia, loss, long term illness, self-harm. We see how dementia affects the individual and the wider family. “Watching my father fade away.” It changes our loved ones beyond recognition.
There are moments that are beautiful to witness too. The developing bond between the two lead characters as they go from two virtual strangers to two perfectly choreographed loving family members. Awkwardness becomes a seamlessly perfect sequence as the share preparing a meal.
Hidden Fires is such a powerful novel. I could not put it down. It is a very necessary read as we need to know what happened in the past, in the hope that history does not repeat itself.
I received a free copy via the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The novel is mainly set in Bradford in 2017, just at the time of the Grenfell Tower fire. The main characters are an eighty year old grandfather and his sixteen year old granddaughter. They are similar but different as both try to deal with their problems alone, whilst pretending all is well. “We’ve drifted away into our own corners of ourselves.” For the granddaughter, it is the bullies at school. For the grandfather it is guilt and loss that has followed him down seventy years after the dreadful events of partition in 1947 India and Pakistan.
The grandfather is not the only male, his age hiding guilty secrets connected with partition. Events haunted a generation. The reader is horrified and saddened for what theses young boys saw in 1947 – events, so shocking, they never left them. “We had to run for our lives from people who looked just like us, spoke like us, lived beside us.”
As her mother is ill and her father is a workaholic, the granddaughter is used to being alone. Her father is a social worker who helps other people’s kids but misses the trauma in his own daughter. “He’s too busy.”
The reader has great sympathies for both lead characters. We understand their isolation and loneliness. It is heartbreaking to hear the granddaughter say “Maybe I’m unlovable.”
There are many hard-hitting topics – partition which we need to be educated on, bullying, dementia, loss, long term illness, self-harm. We see how dementia affects the individual and the wider family. “Watching my father fade away.” It changes our loved ones beyond recognition.
There are moments that are beautiful to witness too. The developing bond between the two lead characters as they go from two virtual strangers to two perfectly choreographed loving family members. Awkwardness becomes a seamlessly perfect sequence as the share preparing a meal.
Hidden Fires is such a powerful novel. I could not put it down. It is a very necessary read as we need to know what happened in the past, in the hope that history does not repeat itself.
I received a free copy via the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
January 17, 2024
This book delves deep into family life in all its messiness. The family happens to be Pakistani. There is the octogenarian Yusuf, the head of the family. He lives in Bradford in quite a tight-knit Pakistani community and in grieving the death of his wife he is both fragile and lonely. His son Hassan, a social worker specialising in child protection, has settled in Manchester with his wife Michelle and his daughter Rubi. Hassan has been promoted and his extremely busy and stressful work life sucks all the energy from him that his family badly needs.
Michelle has a long-term condition that often makes her withdraw from life altogether and then there is Rubi in the midst of it all, longing for a greater closeness with her parents. She retreats into her room finding comfort in her music and blogging but she is lonely, frightened. She feels unlovable and has had a bad experience of bullying at school. In short – the family that years ago had started off with so much joy and promise has started to drift – things are not good anymore, none of them are happy.
When Michelle’s mother, Rubi’s grandmother, dies unexpectedly, the parents set off to make the funeral arrangements and the reluctant Rubi is left with Yusuf, the granddad she hardly knows anymore. It is heart-warming to witness how these two very slowly start to get to know each other. There is predictably much misunderstanding and disappointment but, in the end, they are left with a deep and loving appreciation of each other and are able to share even their most sacred secrets, their worst fears and the things that trigger them. Both gain access to the other person’s world and they form a bond founded in a deep understanding of each other and unconditional love.
Yusuf’s health is failing and he is forced to live with his son’s family in Manchester. None of them finds this change easy, but over time it becomes quite apparent that the old man needed as much looking after by the family as they needed him to take care of them. Together they make it work and slowly they regain some of the joy and light-heartedness of life they long for – something any family can relate to.
I loved the characters, the plot and the sentiments it conveys. – Altogether a very enjoyable read.
I am grateful to NetGalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Michelle has a long-term condition that often makes her withdraw from life altogether and then there is Rubi in the midst of it all, longing for a greater closeness with her parents. She retreats into her room finding comfort in her music and blogging but she is lonely, frightened. She feels unlovable and has had a bad experience of bullying at school. In short – the family that years ago had started off with so much joy and promise has started to drift – things are not good anymore, none of them are happy.
When Michelle’s mother, Rubi’s grandmother, dies unexpectedly, the parents set off to make the funeral arrangements and the reluctant Rubi is left with Yusuf, the granddad she hardly knows anymore. It is heart-warming to witness how these two very slowly start to get to know each other. There is predictably much misunderstanding and disappointment but, in the end, they are left with a deep and loving appreciation of each other and are able to share even their most sacred secrets, their worst fears and the things that trigger them. Both gain access to the other person’s world and they form a bond founded in a deep understanding of each other and unconditional love.
Yusuf’s health is failing and he is forced to live with his son’s family in Manchester. None of them finds this change easy, but over time it becomes quite apparent that the old man needed as much looking after by the family as they needed him to take care of them. Together they make it work and slowly they regain some of the joy and light-heartedness of life they long for – something any family can relate to.
I loved the characters, the plot and the sentiments it conveys. – Altogether a very enjoyable read.
I am grateful to NetGalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2024
The novel moved me to tears; I cried buckets while reading it, overwhelmed by the depth of emotion and the profound impact of the story. You've done it again, Sairish. And I'm not even a bit upset with you. In fact, I welcome you with open arms to do this to me again.
Yet AGAIN, Hussain masterfully weaves together the individual struggles and collective resilience of her characters, creating a montage of human experience that is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring.
The book opens our hearts to Rubi, a teenage girl tormented by bullying due to her weight. Through Rubi, Hussain poignantly explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the painful search for acceptance in a world that often feels hostile. Rubi's story is a mirror to the silent battles many endure, a reminder of the strength required to navigate the labyrinth of prejudice and discrimination. Her character development is nothing short of remarkable!
Each person in the family is burdened with their own hidden sorrow: Rubi's mother battling fibromyalgia; her father on the brink of emotional collapse, yet somehow finding the strength to persevere. To me, it is the portrayal of Rubi's grandfather, however, that resonates most profoundly. His silent endurance of past traumas and the devastating effects of dementia offer a heartbreaking glimpse into his life and the long-term impacts of historical tragedies.
Hussain's narrative does more than tell a story; it evokes a visceral response. The reader's heart weeps for the countless souls who suffered during the partition, a sorrow that is mirrored in Rubi's family. The book's portrayal of enduring pain and eventual healing (for Rubi, yes. But for Yusuf?... I'm glad he has his people surrounding him with warmth, love, and affection) is both heart-wrenching and uplifting.
"Hidden Fires" is not just a novel; it is an emotional journey that resonates deeply with us readers. It is a tribute to those who suffered and are still continuing to suffer, a call for empathy and understanding in a world that desperately needs it.
I wept for Rubi, whose struggles pierced my heart; for Michelle, whose sorrow touched my soul; for Hassan, whose pain resonated deeply within me; and most of all, for Yusuf, whose suffering broke my heart in ways I cannot fully express.
Yet AGAIN, Hussain masterfully weaves together the individual struggles and collective resilience of her characters, creating a montage of human experience that is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring.
The book opens our hearts to Rubi, a teenage girl tormented by bullying due to her weight. Through Rubi, Hussain poignantly explores the themes of identity, belonging, and the painful search for acceptance in a world that often feels hostile. Rubi's story is a mirror to the silent battles many endure, a reminder of the strength required to navigate the labyrinth of prejudice and discrimination. Her character development is nothing short of remarkable!
Each person in the family is burdened with their own hidden sorrow: Rubi's mother battling fibromyalgia; her father on the brink of emotional collapse, yet somehow finding the strength to persevere. To me, it is the portrayal of Rubi's grandfather, however, that resonates most profoundly. His silent endurance of past traumas and the devastating effects of dementia offer a heartbreaking glimpse into his life and the long-term impacts of historical tragedies.
Hussain's narrative does more than tell a story; it evokes a visceral response. The reader's heart weeps for the countless souls who suffered during the partition, a sorrow that is mirrored in Rubi's family. The book's portrayal of enduring pain and eventual healing (for Rubi, yes. But for Yusuf?... I'm glad he has his people surrounding him with warmth, love, and affection) is both heart-wrenching and uplifting.
"Hidden Fires" is not just a novel; it is an emotional journey that resonates deeply with us readers. It is a tribute to those who suffered and are still continuing to suffer, a call for empathy and understanding in a world that desperately needs it.
I wept for Rubi, whose struggles pierced my heart; for Michelle, whose sorrow touched my soul; for Hassan, whose pain resonated deeply within me; and most of all, for Yusuf, whose suffering broke my heart in ways I cannot fully express.
January 6, 2025
What an incredible story of family, healing, and hope!
Set in Bradford in 2017 (around the time of the Grenfell Tower fire), this book tells the story of the relationship between an 80-year-old grandfather and his 16-year-old granddaughter. Both are quietly struggling with their problems while trying to maintain a facade that everything is fine.
I absolutely love how these two generations overcome their cultural and personal differences to rebuild their bond and rediscover the strength of family. It’s a journey filled with both heartache and hope. The author delves into the PTSD of someone who witnessed and lost loved ones during the horrifying events of the India-Pakistan partition in 1947, the loneliness of old age, and the challenges of dementia. The grandfather’s struggle to hold his life together while silently dealing with aging and memory loss is heartbreaking.
Then there’s his teenage granddaughter, whose father is a workaholic and burnt out from caring for his chronically ill wife. Not wanting to burden her parents further, she hides the fact that she’s being fat-shamed and bullied at school and is self-harming as a result.
What makes this book truly special is how the author handles such heavy themes with warmth and care. Hussain infuses love and even laughter into the tensest moments. The bond and love that develops between the grandfather and granddaughter is so precious! I also appreciate how the book beautifully illustrates how Eastern family values adapt and thrive in a Western setting, making it both poignant and relatable.
The writing is beautiful, the character growth is well-written, and the ending is satisfying.
Hidden Fires is perfect for readers who are looking for stories that amplify voices from underrepresented communities. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates stories about overcoming personal tragedies and finding hope amidst adversity.
Set in Bradford in 2017 (around the time of the Grenfell Tower fire), this book tells the story of the relationship between an 80-year-old grandfather and his 16-year-old granddaughter. Both are quietly struggling with their problems while trying to maintain a facade that everything is fine.
I absolutely love how these two generations overcome their cultural and personal differences to rebuild their bond and rediscover the strength of family. It’s a journey filled with both heartache and hope. The author delves into the PTSD of someone who witnessed and lost loved ones during the horrifying events of the India-Pakistan partition in 1947, the loneliness of old age, and the challenges of dementia. The grandfather’s struggle to hold his life together while silently dealing with aging and memory loss is heartbreaking.
Then there’s his teenage granddaughter, whose father is a workaholic and burnt out from caring for his chronically ill wife. Not wanting to burden her parents further, she hides the fact that she’s being fat-shamed and bullied at school and is self-harming as a result.
What makes this book truly special is how the author handles such heavy themes with warmth and care. Hussain infuses love and even laughter into the tensest moments. The bond and love that develops between the grandfather and granddaughter is so precious! I also appreciate how the book beautifully illustrates how Eastern family values adapt and thrive in a Western setting, making it both poignant and relatable.
The writing is beautiful, the character growth is well-written, and the ending is satisfying.
Hidden Fires is perfect for readers who are looking for stories that amplify voices from underrepresented communities. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates stories about overcoming personal tragedies and finding hope amidst adversity.
January 13, 2024
"Fires can be put out or contained. They never really die, though. They just remain hidden. Hidden until something causes them to ignite again."
Told from the perspectives of three different generations of the same family, Hidden Fires is a compelling read. Set in 2017, Yusuf is now over eighty years old. He is a first-generation immigrant, widowed and lives alone in his house in Bradford. His social life revolves around afternoon prayers at the mosque. It is when Yusuf watches live coverage of the Grenfell Tower fire, that painful memories from the past are reignited.
Yusuf's younger son Hassan lives in Manchester; married to Michelle who suffers from chronic pain and is father to sixteen year old Rubi. Rubi has had a traumatic adolescence. Bullied for being overweight, she is now at a new school and giving her GCSEs. After Michelle's mother suddenly passes away in Spain, Rubi is taken to Bradford to stay with her grandfather whilst her parents fly out to Spain.
"How many of them have talked about it? Or are they all the same: silent and stoic? These aren't people, they're little boxes of trauma. And they walk among us. They carry unimaginable secrets locked away in their hearts, the keys discarded on empty dirt roads around the world."
After a rocky start, what ensues is a bond between grandfather and grand daughter. Rubi learns of Yusuf's unspoken past - going through Partition as a child; painful, heart-wrenching experiences that he has carried with him for decades. Rubi also picks up on Yusuf's first signs of dementia.
Brilliantly written, Hidden Fires is emotional, heartbreaking and heartwarming - all in the same breath and will leave you with a lasting impact.
My thanks to NetGalley and HQ for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review.
Told from the perspectives of three different generations of the same family, Hidden Fires is a compelling read. Set in 2017, Yusuf is now over eighty years old. He is a first-generation immigrant, widowed and lives alone in his house in Bradford. His social life revolves around afternoon prayers at the mosque. It is when Yusuf watches live coverage of the Grenfell Tower fire, that painful memories from the past are reignited.
Yusuf's younger son Hassan lives in Manchester; married to Michelle who suffers from chronic pain and is father to sixteen year old Rubi. Rubi has had a traumatic adolescence. Bullied for being overweight, she is now at a new school and giving her GCSEs. After Michelle's mother suddenly passes away in Spain, Rubi is taken to Bradford to stay with her grandfather whilst her parents fly out to Spain.
"How many of them have talked about it? Or are they all the same: silent and stoic? These aren't people, they're little boxes of trauma. And they walk among us. They carry unimaginable secrets locked away in their hearts, the keys discarded on empty dirt roads around the world."
After a rocky start, what ensues is a bond between grandfather and grand daughter. Rubi learns of Yusuf's unspoken past - going through Partition as a child; painful, heart-wrenching experiences that he has carried with him for decades. Rubi also picks up on Yusuf's first signs of dementia.
Brilliantly written, Hidden Fires is emotional, heartbreaking and heartwarming - all in the same breath and will leave you with a lasting impact.
My thanks to NetGalley and HQ for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2024
Only those who lived through Partition in 1947 really know about the memories and spectres that will haunt them for the rest of their lives. Whatever I have heard of it from my own family members is beyond terrifying. Both the fact that the Division of India just did not have to happen, and the way in which it did happen, are as enraging as they are devastating.
This story tenderly unpacks some of those traumas, and demonstrates the long-term impacts that they have left on the survivors. Yusuf is now an old man, living in the UK in 2017, and struggling with his mental health as past horrors surface along with new nightmares triggered by the terrible fire near his home.
His granddaughter, Rubi, is struggling with her own problems. The product of a mixed race marriage, she is bullied at school for being overweight, and doesn't really have much to say to her paternal grandfather after they are pushed into closer proximity together by circumstance.
Meanwhile, Yusuf's son Hassan also has too much on his plate. With a sick wife, and his workaholic tendencies where his job as a social worker is concerned, he is failing to recognise how badly his daughter needs him, and feeling bad about the state of his elderly father.
The story covers all three of their perspectives, which lends richness and depth to the storytelling. This novel deals with a lot of painful issues: Partition, loneliness, alienation, dementia, bullying, body image, and so on, and so on. Yet it is a testament to the author's skill that the story flows beautifully and draws the reader into an immersive experience whilst reading it. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This story tenderly unpacks some of those traumas, and demonstrates the long-term impacts that they have left on the survivors. Yusuf is now an old man, living in the UK in 2017, and struggling with his mental health as past horrors surface along with new nightmares triggered by the terrible fire near his home.
His granddaughter, Rubi, is struggling with her own problems. The product of a mixed race marriage, she is bullied at school for being overweight, and doesn't really have much to say to her paternal grandfather after they are pushed into closer proximity together by circumstance.
Meanwhile, Yusuf's son Hassan also has too much on his plate. With a sick wife, and his workaholic tendencies where his job as a social worker is concerned, he is failing to recognise how badly his daughter needs him, and feeling bad about the state of his elderly father.
The story covers all three of their perspectives, which lends richness and depth to the storytelling. This novel deals with a lot of painful issues: Partition, loneliness, alienation, dementia, bullying, body image, and so on, and so on. Yet it is a testament to the author's skill that the story flows beautifully and draws the reader into an immersive experience whilst reading it. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
March 22, 2024
[Review copy (paperback) from Times Reads]
Sometimes, an emotional book is even more powerful when it doesn't make you cry, but pushes you just enough to rest on the edge of tears.
Hidden Fires presents Yusuf, a Pakistani grandfather residing in the UK, and his granddaughter Rubi. They both have ghosts. Years created a gap between them, but when circumstances force Rubi to live with Yusuf, they are both forced to come face to face with their internal hauntings.
[Potential trigger warnings include self-harm and bullying.]
This was a comforting and fulfilling read. There's so much substance...so much so that I'm not sure which to highlight first.
Infusing elements of historical fiction, the author hit all the right notes in portraying Yusuf's internal ghosts. Reading his character constantly reminded me of how fragile and short life is.
I loved how the characters had their own versions of "loneliness". Yusuf, Rubi and even Rubi's parents have baggage. I felt like I could relate to most, if not all, of their struggles.
One tiny challenge I had was with Rubi's demeanor. I wasn't fully convinced of how she was portrayed at different parts of the novel. There were times when I wasn't sure how to make sense of both her maturity and immaturity. Digging deeper into her character offset that, though.
The writing style made everything so much easier to read. The pace was steady. I could feel the conflict intensifying but it was done without suffocating me. It was almost like watching the growing storm from behind a glass window, wrapped in a blanket.
I definitely recommend this to everyone. It's also a very suitable read for Ramadan. Very wholesome!
Sometimes, an emotional book is even more powerful when it doesn't make you cry, but pushes you just enough to rest on the edge of tears.
Hidden Fires presents Yusuf, a Pakistani grandfather residing in the UK, and his granddaughter Rubi. They both have ghosts. Years created a gap between them, but when circumstances force Rubi to live with Yusuf, they are both forced to come face to face with their internal hauntings.
[Potential trigger warnings include self-harm and bullying.]
This was a comforting and fulfilling read. There's so much substance...so much so that I'm not sure which to highlight first.
Infusing elements of historical fiction, the author hit all the right notes in portraying Yusuf's internal ghosts. Reading his character constantly reminded me of how fragile and short life is.
I loved how the characters had their own versions of "loneliness". Yusuf, Rubi and even Rubi's parents have baggage. I felt like I could relate to most, if not all, of their struggles.
One tiny challenge I had was with Rubi's demeanor. I wasn't fully convinced of how she was portrayed at different parts of the novel. There were times when I wasn't sure how to make sense of both her maturity and immaturity. Digging deeper into her character offset that, though.
The writing style made everything so much easier to read. The pace was steady. I could feel the conflict intensifying but it was done without suffocating me. It was almost like watching the growing storm from behind a glass window, wrapped in a blanket.
I definitely recommend this to everyone. It's also a very suitable read for Ramadan. Very wholesome!
February 6, 2025
I forgot how I came across this book but it sounded really interesting. A multi-generational saga that sees two members of the same family look at two incredibly devastating events: the Partition and the Grenfell Tower Fire. Rubi, who watches the latter on TV in London is sent to live with her conservative grandfather, Yusuf, who had to experience the events of the Partition.
The story flips back and forth between these two *very* different people: Yusuf who is a conservative and devout Muslim and Rubi, who dresses like a goth and has been dealing with the aftermath of bullying. The two don't know each other very well for various reasons which are explored in the story.
It sounded like an interesting book but I honestly found it really dull. I know a little about the Partition (and am glad to see it's being discussed and covered more in media) and by chance Grenfell is in the news again with its proposed demolishment as I read this but it just did not click with me. Part of it was the flipping between various perspectives, which I hate as a device and don't think a lot of authors can do very well.
There is definitely a story for those who might like an intergenerational saga that covers events like the Partition, Grenfell, etc. but this fell pretty flat for me. Be aware that there are lots of sensitive subjects besides what was already mentioned including self-harm, parental aging/health, displacement, religious conflicts, etc.
Borrowed from the library and that was best for me.
The story flips back and forth between these two *very* different people: Yusuf who is a conservative and devout Muslim and Rubi, who dresses like a goth and has been dealing with the aftermath of bullying. The two don't know each other very well for various reasons which are explored in the story.
It sounded like an interesting book but I honestly found it really dull. I know a little about the Partition (and am glad to see it's being discussed and covered more in media) and by chance Grenfell is in the news again with its proposed demolishment as I read this but it just did not click with me. Part of it was the flipping between various perspectives, which I hate as a device and don't think a lot of authors can do very well.
There is definitely a story for those who might like an intergenerational saga that covers events like the Partition, Grenfell, etc. but this fell pretty flat for me. Be aware that there are lots of sensitive subjects besides what was already mentioned including self-harm, parental aging/health, displacement, religious conflicts, etc.
Borrowed from the library and that was best for me.
March 17, 2025
This was such a beautiful story about the relationship between a grandfather, Yusuf, and his granddaughter, Rubi. I absolutely loved Sairish Hussain’s first book The Family Tree, so I had a feeling I’d enjoy this – and honestly, it was even better than I expected.
Hidden Fires is all about family, identity, and the struggles we carry – both from our own lives and from generations before us. Yusuf is in his eighties, living in Bradford, and still haunted by the things he went through during the Partition of India. Rubi is a teenager trying to deal with all the usual stuff – school, bullying, body image – while feeling pretty lost. When she ends up staying with her grandad, neither of them are thrilled at first, but over time they grow close, and their bond becomes the heart of the story.
What I really liked is the way the author tells the story – it feels genuine and heartfelt, and she tackles serious topics in a thoughtful, sensitive way without making it feel too heavy. The characters are so real and relatable, and you can’t help but get drawn into their world.
The Grenfell Tower fire is also part of the backdrop, which adds another powerful layer and connects their personal experiences with bigger issues going on around them.
All in all, Hidden Fires is a moving and powerful read about love, loss, and finding connection. It’s about the stories that shape us and how healing often comes from simply being there for each other. I couldn’t put it down, and I’d definitely recommend it if you enjoy books about family, resilience, and hope.
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