The story covers a period between 1970 to 2018 focusing on journeys of three characters Saeedah, Muneer and Hanadi.  The novel opens with the young Saudi couple, Saeedah and Muneer, living in the USA and heading for a divorce due to their deteriorating relationship.  The story revolves around the abduction of their daughter, Hanadi, by Saeedah, fearing that she may lose her custody once Hanadi turns 7, as per Saudi Arabian laws governing child custody.  It's a family saga that changes the lives of many around them, those who must take sides and hide their secrets while vividly depicting life in Saudi Arabia.

After her divorce Saeedah moves around different cities in the USA, working odd jobs, and is paranoid about being caught. Saeedah's character development leaves a lot to be desired and was not explored in detail leaving the reader wanting more insights into why she behaved the way she did.  Muneer spends years searching for his daughter, hiring private investigators, and traveling frequently from Saudi Arabia to the United States. Hanadi, is torn between her parents and two cultures, longs for her father's love and later reunites with him when Muneer finally tracks her down. 

Hanadi visits Jeddah to meet her extended family, whom she has had no access to while growing up. She is welcomed with open arms and realises what her life could have been and what she missed had the situation been different. 

The repercussions and its implications of the abduction changes the lives of everyone in this family, especially Hanadi. The novel explores the impact that parental choices have on their children.  In this book we experience bonds of love between parents and children as well as heartbreak. Reuniting those who are disheartened and dejected isn't so easy, but despite these difficulties hope is eternal.

We rated this novel 6/10.

Ambareen Qasim