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Three Holidays and a Wedding
Three times the holiday magic. Three times the chaos.
As strangers and seatmates Maryam Aziz and Anna Gibson fly to Toronto over the holidays—Maryam to her sister’s impromptu wedding, and Anna to meet her boyfriend’s wealthy family for the first time—neither expect that severe turbulence will scare them into confessing their deepest hopes and fears to one another. At least they’ll never see each other again. And the love of Maryam’s life, Saif, wasn’t sitting two rows behind them hearing it all. Oops.
An emergency landing finds Anna, Saif, Maryam, and her sister’s entire bridal party snowbound at the quirky Snow Falls Inn in a picture-perfect town, where fate has Anna’s actor-crush filming a holiday romance. As Maryam finds the courage to open her heart to Saif, and Anna feels the magic of being snowbound with an unexpected new love—both women soon realize there’s no place they’d rather be for the holidays.
As strangers and seatmates Maryam Aziz and Anna Gibson fly to Toronto over the holidays—Maryam to her sister’s impromptu wedding, and Anna to meet her boyfriend’s wealthy family for the first time—neither expect that severe turbulence will scare them into confessing their deepest hopes and fears to one another. At least they’ll never see each other again. And the love of Maryam’s life, Saif, wasn’t sitting two rows behind them hearing it all. Oops.
An emergency landing finds Anna, Saif, Maryam, and her sister’s entire bridal party snowbound at the quirky Snow Falls Inn in a picture-perfect town, where fate has Anna’s actor-crush filming a holiday romance. As Maryam finds the courage to open her heart to Saif, and Anna feels the magic of being snowbound with an unexpected new love—both women soon realize there’s no place they’d rather be for the holidays.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 23, 2023
575 people are currently reading
19153 people want to read
About the author
Uzma Jalaluddin
9 books2,451 followersI write funny, nuanced stories about Muslims, South Asians, Canadians, people. MUCH ADO ABOUT NADA (June 2023), THREE HOLIDAYS AND A WEDDING (Sept 2023), HANA KHAN CARRIES ON (2021) and AYESHA AT LAST (2019). Find out more at www.uzmajalaluddin.com and thanks for visiting!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,181 reviews
November 1, 2023
3 ‘meh” stars, sigh. I think the issue with this one is it just tries too much, maybe? It started out really very cute & all Hallmark Christmassy movie, but then went seriously off the rails in the middle & I lost interest. There’s way, way, way too many characters to ever keep track of, but what really got me were the things that just didn’t make any sense or add up, like: It did not feel like the year 2000 at all with the exception of no iPhones & socials; the whole concept of the airline issues & the re-routing makes zero sense at all (it was so different pre-9/11); and the Snow Falls little town which nobody ever heard of was supposed to be this hugely diverse melting pot and welcoming place where a major movie was also filming and that decided to hold a big holiday pageant just a couple days before the holidays, like WTAF??? By that time I no longer cared about the three romances or who might end up with who, as it was just a hot mess of Bollywood & menorahs dancing with Santa while eating sushi or something…. Just nope, thanks, I’m out, I can’t suspend my belief that much.
March 4, 2024
Who am I to say no to a sweet, swoon-worthy, heartwarming holiday romance? It's one of my guilty pleasures. Two talented romance authors, Marissa Stapley and Uzma Jalaluddin, have teamed up to deliver not only a lighthearted romance novel with very likable characters but also a picturesque, quirky small town in Ottawa covered in snow. They skillfully combined cultural references, traditions, and religious customs of the holidays, melting the barriers between people and reminding us of the most meaningful times of the year we celebrate with our loved ones, making this book extra special.
Both Maryam and Anna are easily relatable characters, finding themselves on a plane for different reasons. Maryam is traveling to attend her sister's last-minute announced wedding ceremony, while Anna has complex feelings about meeting her boyfriend's family, possibly expecting a marriage proposal during this trip. During the turbulence of the flight, they both share their long-time harbored feelings, including fears, dreams, hopes, and struggles. Little do they know that Saif, the love of Maryam's life, is eavesdropping on their conversation, and they have no idea of the many unexpected events that await them during their stay in town. The emergency landing in a small town in Ottawa changes their entire plans.
The cozy atmosphere of Snow Falls, with its dreamy holiday decorations, will allure you to jump into the book and stay as long as you need until the real world calls you back for your necessary errands. The vivid descriptions of the charming town and its friendly inhabitants make you wish you could experience a winter wonderland like this.
As Anna finds out her celebrity crush is being filmed for a holiday movie, it brings her extra joy that she hasn't experienced in a long time, and an unexpected blooming romance enlightens her life, making her rethink past decisions she's made. Throughout her journey, Anna learns the importance of self-discovery, self-worth, and the courage to follow her heart. She begins to let go of the expectations others have set for her and instead starts paving her own path towards happiness and fulfillment.
On the other hand, Maryam's encounters with Saif, her childhood sweetheart, ignite a fire in her heart that had been extinguished for far too long. As they reconnect and rediscover their deep love for each other, Maryam finds the courage to open herself up to a second chance at romance. Their love story is beautifully interwoven with the magic of the holiday season, making you believe in the power of love and destiny.
As the plot unfolds, we get glimpses of the characters' personal growth, the challenges they face, and the obstacles they overcome. The development of their relationships, both romantic and platonic, showcases the importance of understanding, empathy, and acceptance. The story beautifully captures the essence of the holiday spirit, spreading warmth, love, and hope to its readers.
In conclusion, "Snow Falls" is a delightful and heartwarming holiday romance that will leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart. The magical setting, the well-developed characters, and the engaging plot will transport you to a world of love, laughter, and festive cheer. So, if you're looking for a captivating read that embraces the essence of the holiday season and celebrates the power of love and self-discovery, this book is an absolute must-read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam/G. P. Putnam’s Sons for sharing this swoon-worthy book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts. Wishing you all a wonderful and bookish rest of the week! Happy reading!
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Both Maryam and Anna are easily relatable characters, finding themselves on a plane for different reasons. Maryam is traveling to attend her sister's last-minute announced wedding ceremony, while Anna has complex feelings about meeting her boyfriend's family, possibly expecting a marriage proposal during this trip. During the turbulence of the flight, they both share their long-time harbored feelings, including fears, dreams, hopes, and struggles. Little do they know that Saif, the love of Maryam's life, is eavesdropping on their conversation, and they have no idea of the many unexpected events that await them during their stay in town. The emergency landing in a small town in Ottawa changes their entire plans.
The cozy atmosphere of Snow Falls, with its dreamy holiday decorations, will allure you to jump into the book and stay as long as you need until the real world calls you back for your necessary errands. The vivid descriptions of the charming town and its friendly inhabitants make you wish you could experience a winter wonderland like this.
As Anna finds out her celebrity crush is being filmed for a holiday movie, it brings her extra joy that she hasn't experienced in a long time, and an unexpected blooming romance enlightens her life, making her rethink past decisions she's made. Throughout her journey, Anna learns the importance of self-discovery, self-worth, and the courage to follow her heart. She begins to let go of the expectations others have set for her and instead starts paving her own path towards happiness and fulfillment.
On the other hand, Maryam's encounters with Saif, her childhood sweetheart, ignite a fire in her heart that had been extinguished for far too long. As they reconnect and rediscover their deep love for each other, Maryam finds the courage to open herself up to a second chance at romance. Their love story is beautifully interwoven with the magic of the holiday season, making you believe in the power of love and destiny.
As the plot unfolds, we get glimpses of the characters' personal growth, the challenges they face, and the obstacles they overcome. The development of their relationships, both romantic and platonic, showcases the importance of understanding, empathy, and acceptance. The story beautifully captures the essence of the holiday spirit, spreading warmth, love, and hope to its readers.
In conclusion, "Snow Falls" is a delightful and heartwarming holiday romance that will leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart. The magical setting, the well-developed characters, and the engaging plot will transport you to a world of love, laughter, and festive cheer. So, if you're looking for a captivating read that embraces the essence of the holiday season and celebrates the power of love and self-discovery, this book is an absolute must-read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam/G. P. Putnam’s Sons for sharing this swoon-worthy book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts. Wishing you all a wonderful and bookish rest of the week! Happy reading!
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
December 16, 2024
"People who look like me don't get to write stories."
"As long as we believe that, we never will."
this was so adorable. imagine the quaintest little hallmark-esque town, now make it diverse and inclusive - you've got snow falls. yay for a christmas x hanukkah x ramadan story!
stranded in this remote picturesque winter town are two women who are realizing they aren't happy with the paths they're on.
anna is perfectly happy w her perfect boyfriend, soon-to-be-fiancee - or is she? she's realizing having a "picture perfect" relationship and life isn't quite what it's cracked up to be, and is longing to reconnect with pieces of her past life.
maryam has taken it upon herself as eldest daughter to arrange her younger sister's impulsive wedding, during ramadan no less - but she's skeptical, still healing with her own wounds from the past.
these two have a chance encounter on their turbulent, short-lived plane ride where they can finally confess what they've really been feeling inside - and then have to figure out what they're going to do about it after emergency landing short of their destinations.
throw in two dashing love interests and you've got all the makings of a hallmark tale.
it was really sweet to see a small town like this portrayed as diverse, inclusive, and accommodating. there are all the classic christmas shops, but they also cater to their jewish and muslim residents and visitors. we get to experience the three holidays converging all at once as they occasionally do, and the way it brings family, friends, and communities together.
anna and maryam were a great pair as the leads. anna is outgoing, friendly, and optimistic, to maryam's guarded, practical, and loyal personalities. they and their friendship grows as they confide in each other, then as they open up to their respective love interests.
josh is the comforting kind of love anna needs, and they connect on their shared experiences celebrating the jewish holidays.
saif is the bold flirt who helps crack through maryam's walls, and they understand the experience of immigrant families.
this was exactly the kind of cozy, feel-good, romantic read that makes romance during the holidays feel even more special!
"We're all broken, we just make beautiful new things with our broken pieces."
_________________
🎄˖ ࣪⊹ preread ⊹˖ ࣪🎄
a christmas, hanukkah, AND ramadan romance!
"As long as we believe that, we never will."
this was so adorable. imagine the quaintest little hallmark-esque town, now make it diverse and inclusive - you've got snow falls. yay for a christmas x hanukkah x ramadan story!
stranded in this remote picturesque winter town are two women who are realizing they aren't happy with the paths they're on.
anna is perfectly happy w her perfect boyfriend, soon-to-be-fiancee - or is she? she's realizing having a "picture perfect" relationship and life isn't quite what it's cracked up to be, and is longing to reconnect with pieces of her past life.
maryam has taken it upon herself as eldest daughter to arrange her younger sister's impulsive wedding, during ramadan no less - but she's skeptical, still healing with her own wounds from the past.
these two have a chance encounter on their turbulent, short-lived plane ride where they can finally confess what they've really been feeling inside - and then have to figure out what they're going to do about it after emergency landing short of their destinations.
throw in two dashing love interests and you've got all the makings of a hallmark tale.
it was really sweet to see a small town like this portrayed as diverse, inclusive, and accommodating. there are all the classic christmas shops, but they also cater to their jewish and muslim residents and visitors. we get to experience the three holidays converging all at once as they occasionally do, and the way it brings family, friends, and communities together.
anna and maryam were a great pair as the leads. anna is outgoing, friendly, and optimistic, to maryam's guarded, practical, and loyal personalities. they and their friendship grows as they confide in each other, then as they open up to their respective love interests.
josh is the comforting kind of love anna needs, and they connect on their shared experiences celebrating the jewish holidays.
saif is the bold flirt who helps crack through maryam's walls, and they understand the experience of immigrant families.
this was exactly the kind of cozy, feel-good, romantic read that makes romance during the holidays feel even more special!
"We're all broken, we just make beautiful new things with our broken pieces."
_________________
🎄˖ ࣪⊹ preread ⊹˖ ࣪🎄
a christmas, hanukkah, AND ramadan romance!
August 2, 2023
I stepped a little out of my comfort zone with this multi-faith holiday rom-com and I’m glad I did.
I read with a smile on my face as I was caught up in the havoc of this rare tri-holiday season - a time when Christmas, Ramadan, and Hanukkah all fell at the same time. It certainly was three times the chaos, but also, three times the holiday magic.
I appreciated being brought to the realization again that as different as we are, we are more alike than we’d like to believe.
Most of all, I loved the relatability. I could place myself in the action having recently experienced the Canadian version of snowmageddon this winter as we headed off on vacation. I also identified with the feelings unexpected and unscheduled ‘events’ have on one’s anxiety, the exploration of the immigrant parents’ expectations and with experiencing grief.
Other things I loved:
✔️Canadian setting
✔️Canadian writing duo
✔️learning more about different faiths/cultures
✔️Maryam’s (Boryam) character
✔️message about community
✔️holiday romance and miracles
✔️message about making the best of one’s situation
✔️finding love, hope and happiness in the unlikeliest of places
✔️exploration of the emotions surrounding not feeling good enough, not measuring up
✔️exploration of self-discovery, feeling invisible and being authentic
I’m sure some of us have uttered these words …
✔️“I’m so tired of taking care of everything.”
✔️“I’m so tired of being someone I’m not.”
✔️“Is anyone being honest about who they are and how happy their life really is?”
Such a successful collaboration. I hope to see more from this Canadian writing duo. I certainly believe we haven’t left Snow Falls for good…more like, see you later.
This is one holiday read you'll want on your night table as the temperatures drop!
I was gifted this copy by Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I read with a smile on my face as I was caught up in the havoc of this rare tri-holiday season - a time when Christmas, Ramadan, and Hanukkah all fell at the same time. It certainly was three times the chaos, but also, three times the holiday magic.
I appreciated being brought to the realization again that as different as we are, we are more alike than we’d like to believe.
Most of all, I loved the relatability. I could place myself in the action having recently experienced the Canadian version of snowmageddon this winter as we headed off on vacation. I also identified with the feelings unexpected and unscheduled ‘events’ have on one’s anxiety, the exploration of the immigrant parents’ expectations and with experiencing grief.
Other things I loved:
✔️Canadian setting
✔️Canadian writing duo
✔️learning more about different faiths/cultures
✔️Maryam’s (Boryam) character
✔️message about community
✔️holiday romance and miracles
✔️message about making the best of one’s situation
✔️finding love, hope and happiness in the unlikeliest of places
✔️exploration of the emotions surrounding not feeling good enough, not measuring up
✔️exploration of self-discovery, feeling invisible and being authentic
I’m sure some of us have uttered these words …
✔️“I’m so tired of taking care of everything.”
✔️“I’m so tired of being someone I’m not.”
✔️“Is anyone being honest about who they are and how happy their life really is?”
Such a successful collaboration. I hope to see more from this Canadian writing duo. I certainly believe we haven’t left Snow Falls for good…more like, see you later.
This is one holiday read you'll want on your night table as the temperatures drop!
I was gifted this copy by Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 19, 2023
2 stars
This book was a mess. First of all, it was set in the year 2000 but had absolutely no reason to be. It wasn't any different than a book set in 2023 except no one had smart phones. The book wasn't even accurate to 2000 with the phrase "main character energy" and very tight airport security. In a pre-9/11 world? No way.
And I am not sure why this is categorized as a "romance" either. The two POV characters are Maryam and Anna, who become airplane friends, and it's more about their friendship and families? Also, they are both kind of spineless and passive in an irritating way. Just ask the boys you like if they have a girlfriend and if they want to go out with you is this so hard!!
There is also inexplicably a Christmas/Holiday pageant they put on in the town they get stranded in because of Christmas snow reasons. I'm pretty sure they were only there for like three days how did they accomplish this. And why would they be stranded so long for a little snow when they were flying from Denver and Toronto neither of which would be unfamiliar with snow...??? Also, they film Christmas movies in Canada in the summer not over actual Christmas look it up, authors. Also, I know this says Three Holidays in the title but Hanukkah and Ramadan both felt rather superfluous and tacked on which was disappointing. And this very diverse airplane just happens to land in a tiny United Nations City with every culture represented in the middle of nowhere Canada? Uh, ok, sure.
I wish this book was better but instead it was more irritating than enjoyable. A disappointment, for sure.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
This book was a mess. First of all, it was set in the year 2000 but had absolutely no reason to be. It wasn't any different than a book set in 2023 except no one had smart phones. The book wasn't even accurate to 2000 with the phrase "main character energy" and very tight airport security. In a pre-9/11 world? No way.
And I am not sure why this is categorized as a "romance" either. The two POV characters are Maryam and Anna, who become airplane friends, and it's more about their friendship and families? Also, they are both kind of spineless and passive in an irritating way. Just ask the boys you like if they have a girlfriend and if they want to go out with you is this so hard!!
There is also inexplicably a Christmas/Holiday pageant they put on in the town they get stranded in because of Christmas snow reasons. I'm pretty sure they were only there for like three days how did they accomplish this. And why would they be stranded so long for a little snow when they were flying from Denver and Toronto neither of which would be unfamiliar with snow...??? Also, they film Christmas movies in Canada in the summer not over actual Christmas look it up, authors. Also, I know this says Three Holidays in the title but Hanukkah and Ramadan both felt rather superfluous and tacked on which was disappointing. And this very diverse airplane just happens to land in a tiny United Nations City with every culture represented in the middle of nowhere Canada? Uh, ok, sure.
I wish this book was better but instead it was more irritating than enjoyable. A disappointment, for sure.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 1, 2024
Christmas in July
As you may remember, Much Ado About Nothing was one of three books I deemed my favorite reads of last month. This, too, surprised me, because I notoriously 1. don't like second chance romance, and 2. don't like Austen retellings. Two five stars for Uzma, who, through the book community, is a friend of a friend.
I didn't start off loving this. Books written by two authors can feel awkward and disjointed. At the beginning, I preferred Maryam's story to Anna's. However, as we peeled back each of Anna's layers, I discovered something of myself in her, and began to understand her more readily. I loved Maryam from the beginning. As the slightly spicy eldest daughter in an immigrant family, we just had so much in common. I'm unfortunately not as close to either of my grandfathers as she is to her Dadu.
I particularly loved this book because it centers on a time when three major holidays, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan, occur around the same time. Maryam and Anna meet on a plane bound for Toronto, off to do very different activities. Their plane is diverted to a tiny Canadian town that is ripe with diversity and friendliness.
So while the book features two blossoming relationships, that isn't even the main feature of it, or rather, what I felt I got the most of. This is a book about friendship, and the friends who become family. On the flip side, it is about family that can take advantage, maybe without meaning to. It is about speaking your mind, getting what you want, and achieving your worth. It is about career changes and loving what you do in life, and in turn, loving yourself.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons
As you may remember, Much Ado About Nothing was one of three books I deemed my favorite reads of last month. This, too, surprised me, because I notoriously 1. don't like second chance romance, and 2. don't like Austen retellings. Two five stars for Uzma, who, through the book community, is a friend of a friend.
I didn't start off loving this. Books written by two authors can feel awkward and disjointed. At the beginning, I preferred Maryam's story to Anna's. However, as we peeled back each of Anna's layers, I discovered something of myself in her, and began to understand her more readily. I loved Maryam from the beginning. As the slightly spicy eldest daughter in an immigrant family, we just had so much in common. I'm unfortunately not as close to either of my grandfathers as she is to her Dadu.
I particularly loved this book because it centers on a time when three major holidays, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan, occur around the same time. Maryam and Anna meet on a plane bound for Toronto, off to do very different activities. Their plane is diverted to a tiny Canadian town that is ripe with diversity and friendliness.
So while the book features two blossoming relationships, that isn't even the main feature of it, or rather, what I felt I got the most of. This is a book about friendship, and the friends who become family. On the flip side, it is about family that can take advantage, maybe without meaning to. It is about speaking your mind, getting what you want, and achieving your worth. It is about career changes and loving what you do in life, and in turn, loving yourself.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons
November 7, 2023
I really struggled to finish this for a multitude of reasons, the biggest being the two female protagonists who were spineless doormats. Anna, after losing her beloved father to a heart attack two years prior, is working at a job she doesn’t like and dating a man who just wants everything “perfect.” In their five month relationship, she’s hidden most of herself to fit the image he wants. Maryam, who is clearly still suffering from the demise of a previous relationship that wasn’t her fault, has convinced herself that everyone is ashamed of her as a result, but she’s really just gaslighting herself. Of course, both of them, when presented with the possibility of being with good men who adore their real selves, are ready to torpedo the relationships before they even get started. It isn’t until 75% into the book that they finally grow a spine and start believing they deserve better.
The second big reason I disliked the book was the entire premise of their flight being grounded during a Canadian blizzard and conveniently being stuck in the quaint, Christmassy town of Snow Falls. I can understand having to divert the flight during the height of the storm, but it makes zero sense that they’d be stuck there for almost a week. It’s Canada, for god’s sake; they know how to handle snow. And no way would the airlines be willing to lose a week’s worth of revenue. Despite the weather, somehow the characters are able to walk around town unimpeded and a movie crew is able to continue filming, Make it make sense!
The third reason is the town of Snow Falls itself. We’re led to believe that it’s something straight out of a Hallmark movie, but to fit the theme of this story (the very rare occasion of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the end of Ramadan coinciding), this small town is like the United Nations with shops and restaurants featuring wares and cuisines from all over the world. I’m a huge proponent of diversity in books, but not when it isn’t authentic.
The final reasons I can’t recommend this book are the clunky, repetitive dialogue when the main characters are sharing their feelings, the instalove between the two couples, and little annoyances like saying that Josh was putting a “Yule-log shaped cake” in the oven when any baker knows that it would be batter in a jelly roll pan that’s rolled after cooking. Little annoyances that add up.
The only reason I didn’t give it one * is because it was just interesting enough for me to finish it, but I definitely would not recommend it when there are so many other well-written, engaging holiday stories to choose from, including one of the author’s own (The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox). This is just a case of two decent authors whose collaboration was a fail.
I received an ARC from G.P. Putnam’s Sons through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are strictly my own.
The second big reason I disliked the book was the entire premise of their flight being grounded during a Canadian blizzard and conveniently being stuck in the quaint, Christmassy town of Snow Falls. I can understand having to divert the flight during the height of the storm, but it makes zero sense that they’d be stuck there for almost a week. It’s Canada, for god’s sake; they know how to handle snow. And no way would the airlines be willing to lose a week’s worth of revenue. Despite the weather, somehow the characters are able to walk around town unimpeded and a movie crew is able to continue filming, Make it make sense!
The third reason is the town of Snow Falls itself. We’re led to believe that it’s something straight out of a Hallmark movie, but to fit the theme of this story (the very rare occasion of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the end of Ramadan coinciding), this small town is like the United Nations with shops and restaurants featuring wares and cuisines from all over the world. I’m a huge proponent of diversity in books, but not when it isn’t authentic.
The final reasons I can’t recommend this book are the clunky, repetitive dialogue when the main characters are sharing their feelings, the instalove between the two couples, and little annoyances like saying that Josh was putting a “Yule-log shaped cake” in the oven when any baker knows that it would be batter in a jelly roll pan that’s rolled after cooking. Little annoyances that add up.
The only reason I didn’t give it one * is because it was just interesting enough for me to finish it, but I definitely would not recommend it when there are so many other well-written, engaging holiday stories to choose from, including one of the author’s own (The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox). This is just a case of two decent authors whose collaboration was a fail.
I received an ARC from G.P. Putnam’s Sons through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are strictly my own.
January 9, 2024
Anyone else still reading holiday books?
Just me? Okay.
In my defense, the title of this one had me thinking more along the lines of an old fave . . . .
And I’m not a blurb reader so when my turn came at the library I dove right in. Turns out the three holidays in question are Ramadan, Christmas and Hanukkah which all coincide right around the same time as Maryam’s sister’s wedding. A winter storm derails things, however, and Maryam’s entire family find themselves stranded (along with Anna – who was Maryam’s seatmate on the flight) in a picture-postcard holiday town of Snow Falls where Hallmark movies make their magic. It’s there that both Maryam and Anna find their true selves and maybe even a little love connection with their respective suitors.
I’m always down to clown when it comes to Hallmark holiday movies, but you have to SERIOUSLY suspend some disbelief with this one with the town alone that is somehow this huge melting pot of inclusion and diversity and everyone knows everything about everyone’s religions without needing to ever ask a single question, but is simultaneously tiny and no one has ever heard of it. Obviously that’s not a bad thing – it just isn’t very realistic. I actually loved the family bits and traditions and religious practices the most out of the entire book. Maryam’s Dadu in particular was a gem. But both Anna and Maryam were of the one-dimensional doormat sort, so that was unfortunate, the “romance” was pretty meh and all the extra goings on like the holiday pageant were just a bit too much. 100 pages could have easily been cut and maybe this would have worked better for me.
2.5 Stars
Just me? Okay.
In my defense, the title of this one had me thinking more along the lines of an old fave . . . .
And I’m not a blurb reader so when my turn came at the library I dove right in. Turns out the three holidays in question are Ramadan, Christmas and Hanukkah which all coincide right around the same time as Maryam’s sister’s wedding. A winter storm derails things, however, and Maryam’s entire family find themselves stranded (along with Anna – who was Maryam’s seatmate on the flight) in a picture-postcard holiday town of Snow Falls where Hallmark movies make their magic. It’s there that both Maryam and Anna find their true selves and maybe even a little love connection with their respective suitors.
I’m always down to clown when it comes to Hallmark holiday movies, but you have to SERIOUSLY suspend some disbelief with this one with the town alone that is somehow this huge melting pot of inclusion and diversity and everyone knows everything about everyone’s religions without needing to ever ask a single question, but is simultaneously tiny and no one has ever heard of it. Obviously that’s not a bad thing – it just isn’t very realistic. I actually loved the family bits and traditions and religious practices the most out of the entire book. Maryam’s Dadu in particular was a gem. But both Anna and Maryam were of the one-dimensional doormat sort, so that was unfortunate, the “romance” was pretty meh and all the extra goings on like the holiday pageant were just a bit too much. 100 pages could have easily been cut and maybe this would have worked better for me.
2.5 Stars
December 8, 2024
…it’s okay to fall apart sometimes, and you should be with someone … someone who gives you the space to share that sort of thing.
Charming, fun and festive tri-holiday story that commemorates relationships, community, hope, faith and finding oneself, love and miracles in the unlikeliest of places.
Charming, fun and festive tri-holiday story that commemorates relationships, community, hope, faith and finding oneself, love and miracles in the unlikeliest of places.
January 20, 2025
Cute and unrealistic and exactly what I needed.
December 14, 2023
This book takes place the year 2000... Does that make it Historical Fiction?
If it does I'm throwing myself into the Ohio River.
I'm conflicted on what I should rate this book. If I base it on the Christmas vibes and the friendship, than I'd rate it 4.5 stars. But if I need to base it on the Romance...it's 1 star.
I should probably say what this book is about. Two strangers Maryam who is Muslim and Anna who grew up celebrating Hanukkah end up stranded in a small Canadian town that celebrates Christmas year round. This year Ramadan, Christmas and Hanukkah all fall within days of each other. Over the course of few days Maryam & Anna become friends and find love.
The Christmas vibes were perfection. Maryam's family was chaotic perfection. I loved seeing Maryam and Anna's meet cute with each other. As I said at the beginning had that been what this book was about I would have given this 4.5 stars.....
But unfortunately this was a Romance and the Romances were not it. Maryam's man Saif was a cocky fuckboi. Anna's man Josh was vanilla and boring. Towards the end whenever there was a Romance scene I just skimmed it because who cares.
So what do I rate this?
2 stars feels too harsh but this book doesn't deserve 4 stars. I'll probably go with 2.5 stars bumped up to 3 stars.
If it does I'm throwing myself into the Ohio River.
I'm conflicted on what I should rate this book. If I base it on the Christmas vibes and the friendship, than I'd rate it 4.5 stars. But if I need to base it on the Romance...it's 1 star.
I should probably say what this book is about. Two strangers Maryam who is Muslim and Anna who grew up celebrating Hanukkah end up stranded in a small Canadian town that celebrates Christmas year round. This year Ramadan, Christmas and Hanukkah all fall within days of each other. Over the course of few days Maryam & Anna become friends and find love.
The Christmas vibes were perfection. Maryam's family was chaotic perfection. I loved seeing Maryam and Anna's meet cute with each other. As I said at the beginning had that been what this book was about I would have given this 4.5 stars.....
But unfortunately this was a Romance and the Romances were not it. Maryam's man Saif was a cocky fuckboi. Anna's man Josh was vanilla and boring. Towards the end whenever there was a Romance scene I just skimmed it because who cares.
So what do I rate this?
2 stars feels too harsh but this book doesn't deserve 4 stars. I'll probably go with 2.5 stars bumped up to 3 stars.
October 12, 2023
Sweet holiday romance with Christmas, Hannukah and Ramadan falling at the time.
Another reviewer described it as Hallmark but diverse and I fully agree. While I liked the diversity and the equal focus on the three different celebrations and their traditions, it was too much Hallmark for me.
It was very much based around kindness and support and care and family/community. And I liked that but I also felt the story lacked tension and real conflict.
The characters are likeable enough but didn't stand out for me. I have come to realise I much prefer romances that focus on inner conflict and show much more of the inner world of the characters.
Overall, this is a sweet holiday story with its biggest strength being how diverse and welcoming to all it is but I wanted just a bit more bite and less sweetness.
Another reviewer described it as Hallmark but diverse and I fully agree. While I liked the diversity and the equal focus on the three different celebrations and their traditions, it was too much Hallmark for me.
It was very much based around kindness and support and care and family/community. And I liked that but I also felt the story lacked tension and real conflict.
The characters are likeable enough but didn't stand out for me. I have come to realise I much prefer romances that focus on inner conflict and show much more of the inner world of the characters.
Overall, this is a sweet holiday story with its biggest strength being how diverse and welcoming to all it is but I wanted just a bit more bite and less sweetness.
December 9, 2024
Is the premise of this tri-holiday rom com totally unrealistic? Yes. Did I love it anyway? Yes. Uzma Jalaluddin is wonderful, as usual, but I was surprised to be just as interested in the other storyline as well by Marissa Stapley. Lighthearted holiday fun!! Funny jokes too, including an anachronistic nod to the characters of Frozen, even though the novel is set in 2000 before it ever existed.
Also, majestically performed by Ulka Simone Mohanty, a fellow Canadian like the authors!
Also, majestically performed by Ulka Simone Mohanty, a fellow Canadian like the authors!
October 6, 2023
Be prepared to read this books with a “Ramadan book for dummies” manual right next to you. What I thought was going to be a fun holiday romance ended up being a lesson about Islamic culture. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love learning about new tidbits of cultures, religions, and different life styles in all books but this book was ALL ABOUT RAMADAN. 3 holidays and a wedding? More like 300 pgs about ramadan, 20 about Christmas and Hanukkah, and 10 about the wedding. What annoyed me the most was there was no explanation about Islamic things. The authors just assumed you know the in-depth details of the Islamic culture and Ramadan. And since I so obviously didn’t, I had to look up every other word. It honestly got annoying.
Aside from the forced lesson in Islamic lifestyle this book was SO BORING. Half of it takes place in an airport where they do nothing but TALK and the other half has to do in a hotel room. The sister getting married is a BRAT, and honestly so are the other 2 main characters. Most of all it was very unbelievable and badly written. Do yourself a favor and skip this one for the holiday season, no matter what holiday you celebrate.
Thanks NetGalley for this advanced copy.
Aside from the forced lesson in Islamic lifestyle this book was SO BORING. Half of it takes place in an airport where they do nothing but TALK and the other half has to do in a hotel room. The sister getting married is a BRAT, and honestly so are the other 2 main characters. Most of all it was very unbelievable and badly written. Do yourself a favor and skip this one for the holiday season, no matter what holiday you celebrate.
Thanks NetGalley for this advanced copy.
October 17, 2023
Clean, funny, multicultural and highly improbable, but I loved the depth of our two heroines and the growth they are able to achieve.
April 20, 2023
3.75/5 stars! I picked this book up because Uzman Jalaluddin was one of the authors and I've enjoyed a lot of her other books. This book was exactly what you'd expect based on the cover and premise. It felt like a humorous mix of Four Weddings and a Funeral meets holiday hijinks. There were overlapping storylines and plenty of meet-cutes. I liked the story quite a bit. I would only say that sometimes the competing storylines were hard to stay engaged with. I feel like the reader will have a favorite couple and then skim through the other couples' sections.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 24, 2023
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Three Holidays and a Wedding takes place in 2000, when Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan/Eid all fell within days of one another. Maryam and her family are traveling to Toronto for her younger sister's wedding. Anna is on her way to Toronto to meet her boyfriend's family. Their route gets diverted and the passengers get snowbound in a quirky and cozy small town named Snow Falls.
My low rating seems a bit harsh because this isn't the worst book ever. But there isn't much that I liked about this book. I found all of the characters annoying. Both Anna and Maryam are such doormats—Anna with her boyfriend Nick and Maryam with her family. On top of that, Anna and Maryam had no trouble flirting with men they believed were unavailable. I found it so odd that it took Anna and Maryam forever to question Josh and Saif about their girlfriends. Anyway, Maryam's grandfather was the only tolerable character in this book.
Additionally, it didn't feel like the authors properly captured the vibe of Ramadan. It is so strange that the Muslims were having parties during the last couple of nights in Ramadan. Instead of praying Taraweeh, they were busy watching Bollywood movies and celebrating a mehndi. Ramadan is a month for worship, not for weddings. It made no sense whatsoever to have a wedding during Ramadan. The wedding festivities would have made more sense if the story had taken place during the first 3 days of Eid.
Three Holidays and a Wedding takes place in 2000, when Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan/Eid all fell within days of one another. Maryam and her family are traveling to Toronto for her younger sister's wedding. Anna is on her way to Toronto to meet her boyfriend's family. Their route gets diverted and the passengers get snowbound in a quirky and cozy small town named Snow Falls.
My low rating seems a bit harsh because this isn't the worst book ever. But there isn't much that I liked about this book. I found all of the characters annoying. Both Anna and Maryam are such doormats—Anna with her boyfriend Nick and Maryam with her family. On top of that, Anna and Maryam had no trouble flirting with men they believed were unavailable. I found it so odd that it took Anna and Maryam forever to question Josh and Saif about their girlfriends. Anyway, Maryam's grandfather was the only tolerable character in this book.
Additionally, it didn't feel like the authors properly captured the vibe of Ramadan. It is so strange that the Muslims were having parties during the last couple of nights in Ramadan. Instead of praying Taraweeh, they were busy watching Bollywood movies and celebrating a mehndi. Ramadan is a month for worship, not for weddings. It made no sense whatsoever to have a wedding during Ramadan. The wedding festivities would have made more sense if the story had taken place during the first 3 days of Eid.
October 5, 2023
Thank you to Goodreads and the authors for the ebook giveaway that I won a copy of the book. All opinions below are mine.
I quite enjoyed it! Perhaps occasionally it was even too sweet for me, but rarely. I look forward to rereading it before or during the holidays long into the future. Yeah for Snow Falls!
I quite enjoyed it! Perhaps occasionally it was even too sweet for me, but rarely. I look forward to rereading it before or during the holidays long into the future. Yeah for Snow Falls!
April 22, 2024
This was really sweet, cute, and unexpected for me.
Loosely classified as romance for me, we have a duel storyline between two heroines and their journeys. It was an easy read and really enjoyable!
I read this as part of the Diverse Baseline Challenge for the prompt for someone of a different religious background as me. It was great getting to know Ramadan and Hanukkah on a closer level.
As for steam there's a few kisses her and there, but nothing detailed.
Loosely classified as romance for me, we have a duel storyline between two heroines and their journeys. It was an easy read and really enjoyable!
I read this as part of the Diverse Baseline Challenge for the prompt for someone of a different religious background as me. It was great getting to know Ramadan and Hanukkah on a closer level.
As for steam there's a few kisses her and there, but nothing detailed.
December 6, 2023
4.5!
Three Holidays and a Wedding is the kind of cute, holiday magic filled book to warm your heart and really take you on a journey. I loved the characters and how well thought out they were, it was like I was part of my own big happy family/friend group stuck in unpredictable circumstances.
I will say, it did feel a little long so if you’re expecting and easy breezy romance book, this isn’t it! There’s a whole story here with lots of buildup, so it takes time getting through it, but it’s so worth it, promise!
Three Holidays and a Wedding is the kind of cute, holiday magic filled book to warm your heart and really take you on a journey. I loved the characters and how well thought out they were, it was like I was part of my own big happy family/friend group stuck in unpredictable circumstances.
I will say, it did feel a little long so if you’re expecting and easy breezy romance book, this isn’t it! There’s a whole story here with lots of buildup, so it takes time getting through it, but it’s so worth it, promise!
December 26, 2023
Maryam Aziz and Anna Gibson are just two strangers sitting next to each other on a plane headed to Toronto. Maryam is on her way to her sister's wedding and Anna is flying to meet her boyfriend and his family. When they encounter a patch of bad turbulence, they each confess their deepest secrets to each other, both expressing regrets and displeasure around current aspects of their lives. Maryam also confesses to Anna details about her lifelong crush, who just happens to be sitting right behind her on the flight and overhearing the whole conversation. After an emergency landing causes them to be snowbound in Snow Falls, Maryam and Anna both unexpectedly find themselves on journeys of love and self discovery, while also forming a new friendship along the way.
This story gave me all of the warm festive feels! I loved following each woman's journey as they navigated grief, loss, love, and how to build the life they want. I also loved learning about cultures outside of my own through the traditions and recipes that are woven thoughtfully throughout the story as characters celebrate Ramadan, Hanukkah, and Christmas. This book was cozy, romantic, and has quickly become one of my favorite holiday reads this year. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a festive/wintery book!
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story gave me all of the warm festive feels! I loved following each woman's journey as they navigated grief, loss, love, and how to build the life they want. I also loved learning about cultures outside of my own through the traditions and recipes that are woven thoughtfully throughout the story as characters celebrate Ramadan, Hanukkah, and Christmas. This book was cozy, romantic, and has quickly become one of my favorite holiday reads this year. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a festive/wintery book!
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2023
This was a SUPER charming, feel good holiday Hallmark style romance that sees a group of airplane travelers storm stayed in the cutest little Canadian small town over Ramadan, Hanukkah and Christmas.
I loved the diverse cast of characters and the way these two authors were able to combine so many different traditions into one holiday romance. Full of family drama, friendship, romance and second chances. This book had all the magic of my favorite kind of holiday movies!
Great on audio and perfect for fans of books like It happened one Christmas by Chantel Guertin or The holiday swap by Maggie Knox. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and Librofm for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved the diverse cast of characters and the way these two authors were able to combine so many different traditions into one holiday romance. Full of family drama, friendship, romance and second chances. This book had all the magic of my favorite kind of holiday movies!
Great on audio and perfect for fans of books like It happened one Christmas by Chantel Guertin or The holiday swap by Maggie Knox. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and Librofm for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
October 3, 2023
This book falls perfectly under the category of book you should read while cuddled up in your cozy blanket during a wintry night with a cup of hot cocoa! I loved the book a lot, gave me all the feels of how holidays should be. It is set in the time when Eid, Hanukah and Christmas align together which I now learned was Uzma’s idea. The Muslim representation was top notch and it was great how Uzma incorporated details about Islam throughout the book, giving the readers a chance of how certain things work in our religion. The only problem I found was that there was dishing out of, in my humble opinion, a lot of advice which sometimes borderline-d on being unnecessarily preach and I had to skim a couple of pages.
October 17, 2023
I really wanted to like this and got to 39% and then DNF. I couldn’t. It just wasn’t compelling
September 4, 2023
A charming little Hallmark-esque holiday romance…if Hallmark recognized religions other than Christianity. This one covers Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan and takes place in the year 2000 when all three of those holidays coincided to fall within days of each other.
In this book, we get 2 romances for the price of 1. The story focuses on Anna, a white woman who misses celebrating Hanukkah with her Jewish stepmom, and Maryam, a South Asian American Muslim woman. Anna is traveling to Toronto to spend Christmas with her wealthy boyfriend and his high-society family. Maryam and her parents and sister and grandfather are traveling to Toronto for her sister’s wedding. When bad weather forces their flight to be diverted to a charming little Canadian town called Snow Falls (no, really, that’s the name of the town) in the middle of nowhere, Anna and Maryam are forced to face some hard truths about their lives and the lies they keep telling themselves.
I really liked this story though I would probably call it more of a romantic fiction than a full on contemporary romance novel. The romance between Maryam with her painful romantic history and Saif, her long time childhood crush, is sweet and endearing, poignant and heartachingly tender. The romance between Anna and Josh, the cute guy she meets at a sports bar in Snow Falls, is full of misleading identities and false starts before both them finally admit to their true feelings. While I liked both romantic plot lines, I will say the book felt light on the actual romance and was more about Maryam and Anna going through some necessary growing pains and realizing the value of living their lives authentically and for themselves.
ARC from publisher, review is all mine.
Content Notes: mention of past infidelity, off page parental death, off page grandparental death, talk of loss and grief
In this book, we get 2 romances for the price of 1. The story focuses on Anna, a white woman who misses celebrating Hanukkah with her Jewish stepmom, and Maryam, a South Asian American Muslim woman. Anna is traveling to Toronto to spend Christmas with her wealthy boyfriend and his high-society family. Maryam and her parents and sister and grandfather are traveling to Toronto for her sister’s wedding. When bad weather forces their flight to be diverted to a charming little Canadian town called Snow Falls (no, really, that’s the name of the town) in the middle of nowhere, Anna and Maryam are forced to face some hard truths about their lives and the lies they keep telling themselves.
I really liked this story though I would probably call it more of a romantic fiction than a full on contemporary romance novel. The romance between Maryam with her painful romantic history and Saif, her long time childhood crush, is sweet and endearing, poignant and heartachingly tender. The romance between Anna and Josh, the cute guy she meets at a sports bar in Snow Falls, is full of misleading identities and false starts before both them finally admit to their true feelings. While I liked both romantic plot lines, I will say the book felt light on the actual romance and was more about Maryam and Anna going through some necessary growing pains and realizing the value of living their lives authentically and for themselves.
ARC from publisher, review is all mine.
Content Notes: mention of past infidelity, off page parental death, off page grandparental death, talk of loss and grief
December 15, 2023
Two strangers, Maryam and Anna, share their hopes and fears during a turbulent flight to Toronto. Maryam is headed there for her sister's wedding and Anna is going to spend Christmas with her boyfriend's family. Unbeknownst to them, Maryam's love interest, Saif, overhears everything. An emergency landing leads them to the Snow Falls Inn, where Maryam opens up to Saif, and Anna discovers unexpected love. The holiday setting brings both women to a realization that being snowbound at the inn is where they truly want to be.
Super cute holiday book that will leave you feeling all warm and cheery. I loved that the book was about Christmas, Hanukah, and Ramadan and it gave me the chance to learn about other cultures. Is Snow Falls a real place?? Because it seems like somewhere I would absolutely want to live.
Super cute holiday book that will leave you feeling all warm and cheery. I loved that the book was about Christmas, Hanukah, and Ramadan and it gave me the chance to learn about other cultures. Is Snow Falls a real place?? Because it seems like somewhere I would absolutely want to live.
December 3, 2024
This was like every cheesy holiday movie rolled into one and it was an utter joy. With romance, family drama and holiday cheer, all wrapped up in a snowy small setting, this was a sweet and warm hearted celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah and Ramadan. It made my heart very happy.
What to expect:
- small town
- forced proximity
- estranged friends-to-lovers
- celebrity romance
-family dynamics
- sisterhood
- new found friendship
- all the cheesy holiday cheer
What to expect:
- small town
- forced proximity
- estranged friends-to-lovers
- celebrity romance
-family dynamics
- sisterhood
- new found friendship
- all the cheesy holiday cheer
September 3, 2023
I don't think I have ever sat down and watched a complete Hallmark Channel holiday movie, but I know the stereotypes and I've caught enough scenes while hanging out with my grandma to know that reality has to be suspended, there will be a happy ending, and the snow and small town charm is going to be laid on pretty heavy as the wholesome romance plays out. This book is the literary equivalent of such a movie. So with that in mind, there are somethings I will concede can be overlooked, but religiously there are some things that need to be noted (see below). I also have to admit that I couldn't put the book down and read the entire 384 page Adult book in two sittings. The book is told in alternating perspectives: Maryam and Anna. Maryam and her family are Muslim, the book takes place in 2000 when Ramadan/Eid, Christmas and Hanukkah all took place within days of each other. Anna celebrates Christmas, but grew up celebrating Hanukkah too. Even if a romance that has Muslims ok with adopting "Christmas-y" celebrations during the last ten nights of Ramadan no less. is not a book that appeals to you, it is worth noting that this book does an incredible job of not becoming performative. There is no internalized Islamophobia, self-othering, no over explaining, convincing, justifying or religious or cultural identity crisis. For a book co authored by a Muslim and a non Muslim and traditionally published, I am excited for the precedence this book sets.
SYNOPSIS:
Anna is in a perfect relationship, with the perfect guy, and accidently sees the perfect ring in her boyfriend's luggage. With Christmas plans in Toronto to meet Nicks wealthy parents, it is clear that the perfect proposal is also going to happen. But Anna is not perfect, and who she seems to be to Nick is not who she is or wants to be. It feels so fake. With separate flights from Denver to Toronto, getting redirected and stranded in Snow Falls, Ontario gives her the pause she needs to decide what she wants. She meets Josh, someone in town visiting, which complicates things, and she sorts through her grief of loosing her father and the speed in which her ex step mother moved on, all why becoming good friends with Maryam and her family in this idyllic town that she doesn't want to leave.
Maryam is the oldest daughter who shoulders the expectation so that her younger sister can live her best life. She became a pharmacist to carry on the family business, so Saima could be a physician with Doctors Without Borders. Now Saima has decided that she wants a wedding in Ramadan and Maryam has to plan it. The flight being diverted and the wedding party being stuck in Snow Falls has long ago crush Saif and Maryam sorting through their past and a possible future together.
The two protagonists, their past, future, love interests are all multiplied by a town full of love and holiday activities, a wedding that might be missed, a Holiday Hoopla show, a movie being filmed, fasting in Ramadan, and wise old Dadu, a former Bollywood director guiding the characters to a happy ending.
WHY I LIKE IT:
The book is an easy read, it really is a guilty pleasure escape from reality and that it comes from a place of- we are Muslim, we fast, we pray, we don't/shouldn't date without marriage in mind, and everyone in the book already knows all this makes you feel ok about indulging. It even has a thread of analyzing parental expectation and peeling back some of the assumptions regarding the disconnect worked in throughout the story.
It took a few chapters for me to stop fighting and accept that the snow is so bad that the airport is closed, but every store, restaurant, and the roads in the town are open. That the phones are out, no one has a charger, but the payphone works and food can be ordered and delivered. That Anna is strolling around in a cocktail dress and can find a sweater, but she can't find pants, and holiday gifts for everyone were not a problem to obtain. The book notes the idyllic diversity and amazing payphone, but you really just have to let it go if you are to enjoy the book.
Some things I couldn't let go though are the Islamic religious portrayals. The characters note that a wedding in Ramadan is a terrible idea, but for as authentic as the waking up for suhoor and fajr are every day and iftar is every evening, the Muslim wedding party spend the last 10 days and nights of Ramadan watching Bollywood movies, dancing at a music filled mehndi party, planning and performing in an interfaith holiday show, and listening to Christmas music. I know Ramadan staples of reading Quran, doing thikr, and praying, don't fit the genre, but there are enough people to make jammat, one night it mentions they go to the musallah for taraweeh salat, but I really wish it was every night, and that more traditional Ramadan foundations were shared. I did love that why Dadu couldn't fast was explored, and that when Saima was stressed she went to the musallah, but really Bollywood marathons and parties in Ramadan are uncomfortable even in fiction.
FLAGS:
For Adults and New Adults the book is remarkably clean. The romance is tame even for YA, the characters are all adults and it is more the Ramadan non worship and Christmas normalization that is more flag worthy to me if a Muslim teen were to read it, than the relationships. So take what you will from the flags: Anna and Nick seem to live together at the beginning, Anna and Josh hold hands, kiss. Maryam and Saif hold hands and hug. Saima and Miraj hug. There are some other hetero couples that kiss. Mention of Maryam's prior relationship features her husbands infidelity, and Saif admits to having a girlfriend. There are a few LGBTQ+ couples in the town that own stores and the inn, but don't seem to be Muslim, and their relationships are not significant plot points. Muslims joining in Christmas activities. Alcohol and a pub are mentioned, but Anna partakes, no Muslim characters.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
I don't think I could do this as an Islamic school book club choice for middle or high school. But I do want to gush about it with my Lit Sisters.
SYNOPSIS:
Anna is in a perfect relationship, with the perfect guy, and accidently sees the perfect ring in her boyfriend's luggage. With Christmas plans in Toronto to meet Nicks wealthy parents, it is clear that the perfect proposal is also going to happen. But Anna is not perfect, and who she seems to be to Nick is not who she is or wants to be. It feels so fake. With separate flights from Denver to Toronto, getting redirected and stranded in Snow Falls, Ontario gives her the pause she needs to decide what she wants. She meets Josh, someone in town visiting, which complicates things, and she sorts through her grief of loosing her father and the speed in which her ex step mother moved on, all why becoming good friends with Maryam and her family in this idyllic town that she doesn't want to leave.
Maryam is the oldest daughter who shoulders the expectation so that her younger sister can live her best life. She became a pharmacist to carry on the family business, so Saima could be a physician with Doctors Without Borders. Now Saima has decided that she wants a wedding in Ramadan and Maryam has to plan it. The flight being diverted and the wedding party being stuck in Snow Falls has long ago crush Saif and Maryam sorting through their past and a possible future together.
The two protagonists, their past, future, love interests are all multiplied by a town full of love and holiday activities, a wedding that might be missed, a Holiday Hoopla show, a movie being filmed, fasting in Ramadan, and wise old Dadu, a former Bollywood director guiding the characters to a happy ending.
WHY I LIKE IT:
The book is an easy read, it really is a guilty pleasure escape from reality and that it comes from a place of- we are Muslim, we fast, we pray, we don't/shouldn't date without marriage in mind, and everyone in the book already knows all this makes you feel ok about indulging. It even has a thread of analyzing parental expectation and peeling back some of the assumptions regarding the disconnect worked in throughout the story.
It took a few chapters for me to stop fighting and accept that the snow is so bad that the airport is closed, but every store, restaurant, and the roads in the town are open. That the phones are out, no one has a charger, but the payphone works and food can be ordered and delivered. That Anna is strolling around in a cocktail dress and can find a sweater, but she can't find pants, and holiday gifts for everyone were not a problem to obtain. The book notes the idyllic diversity and amazing payphone, but you really just have to let it go if you are to enjoy the book.
Some things I couldn't let go though are the Islamic religious portrayals. The characters note that a wedding in Ramadan is a terrible idea, but for as authentic as the waking up for suhoor and fajr are every day and iftar is every evening, the Muslim wedding party spend the last 10 days and nights of Ramadan watching Bollywood movies, dancing at a music filled mehndi party, planning and performing in an interfaith holiday show, and listening to Christmas music. I know Ramadan staples of reading Quran, doing thikr, and praying, don't fit the genre, but there are enough people to make jammat, one night it mentions they go to the musallah for taraweeh salat, but I really wish it was every night, and that more traditional Ramadan foundations were shared. I did love that why Dadu couldn't fast was explored, and that when Saima was stressed she went to the musallah, but really Bollywood marathons and parties in Ramadan are uncomfortable even in fiction.
FLAGS:
For Adults and New Adults the book is remarkably clean. The romance is tame even for YA, the characters are all adults and it is more the Ramadan non worship and Christmas normalization that is more flag worthy to me if a Muslim teen were to read it, than the relationships. So take what you will from the flags: Anna and Nick seem to live together at the beginning, Anna and Josh hold hands, kiss. Maryam and Saif hold hands and hug. Saima and Miraj hug. There are some other hetero couples that kiss. Mention of Maryam's prior relationship features her husbands infidelity, and Saif admits to having a girlfriend. There are a few LGBTQ+ couples in the town that own stores and the inn, but don't seem to be Muslim, and their relationships are not significant plot points. Muslims joining in Christmas activities. Alcohol and a pub are mentioned, but Anna partakes, no Muslim characters.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
I don't think I could do this as an Islamic school book club choice for middle or high school. But I do want to gush about it with my Lit Sisters.
December 24, 2024
**I was provided with an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
CW: grief, death of parent, toxic relationship, infidelity, emotional abuse, gaslighting
--
I’ve had this arc for over a year now as it was one of the handful that I didn’t manage to get to last year (sorry Atlantic) but I thought it best to read it at this time of year for obvious reasons. I find it even more perfect that I started and finished it within the exact time frame that the book is set albeit 24 years later.
I absolutely loved the central idea of this book and how it celebrates the family time and togetherness of the major celebrations of the 3 Abrahamic religions and while I don’t remember it myself as I was like 3 years old its cool that at the end of 2000 all were being celebrated at the same time. Pair this with all the hallmark film vibes plus a really wholesome small town setting and Jalaluddin and Stapley have thought up quite a fun story. And while it didn’t blow me away as it had its predictable and generic moments, the pair’s storytelling worked well together to create an enjoyable read perfect for this time of year.
I loved the two leads and enjoyed their individual journeys of self-actualisation alongside their own little romances. Though I’ve got to say having read all of Jalaluddin’s previous books I was a little disappointed with Maryam and Saif’s relationship because even though they worked for each other I found their on page chemistry to be a bit lacking for two individuals with a history and a newfound chance at love. They are probably the weakest couple that Jalaluddin has written for me.. Maryam’s arc of learning to put herself and her ambitions at the forefront of her life rather than taking on all of her family’s problems felt like it carried more weight than the love story side of things.
This was my first time reading anything from Stapley though and while Anna and Josh’s romance was a little cliché it was sweet and I really enjoyed following their relationship develop.
My only other gripe with the book has to come with some of the finer details with how it is set during Ramadan. Weddings during this holy period aren’t really a rare thing as I’m sure I’ve heard of people having their Nikkahs then but I just found it a bit off that there was all this talk of prep for a wedding, including a mehndi party with singing and dancing as well as talk of Bollywood movies and stuff during one of the most holy months of the Islamic calendar when the focus should be on ibadah/ prayer especially those last few days?? It’s a month about more than just fasting and I get that this is a fictional romance story so religion isn’t the focus and they’re snowed in at a small town with not much else to do but it felt sort of wrong to be giving an inadequate impression on such an important part of life as a Muslim..
That aside the central messages and themes discussed in the book were well done and I loved pretty much all of the side characters too. Truly wish I could find myself stumbling upon such a wonderful little town with a diverse community such as Snow Falls to have an impromptu, snowed-in break at.
Final Rating – 3.25/5 Stars
CW: grief, death of parent, toxic relationship, infidelity, emotional abuse, gaslighting
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I’ve had this arc for over a year now as it was one of the handful that I didn’t manage to get to last year (sorry Atlantic) but I thought it best to read it at this time of year for obvious reasons. I find it even more perfect that I started and finished it within the exact time frame that the book is set albeit 24 years later.
I absolutely loved the central idea of this book and how it celebrates the family time and togetherness of the major celebrations of the 3 Abrahamic religions and while I don’t remember it myself as I was like 3 years old its cool that at the end of 2000 all were being celebrated at the same time. Pair this with all the hallmark film vibes plus a really wholesome small town setting and Jalaluddin and Stapley have thought up quite a fun story. And while it didn’t blow me away as it had its predictable and generic moments, the pair’s storytelling worked well together to create an enjoyable read perfect for this time of year.
I loved the two leads and enjoyed their individual journeys of self-actualisation alongside their own little romances. Though I’ve got to say having read all of Jalaluddin’s previous books I was a little disappointed with Maryam and Saif’s relationship because even though they worked for each other I found their on page chemistry to be a bit lacking for two individuals with a history and a newfound chance at love. They are probably the weakest couple that Jalaluddin has written for me.. Maryam’s arc of learning to put herself and her ambitions at the forefront of her life rather than taking on all of her family’s problems felt like it carried more weight than the love story side of things.
This was my first time reading anything from Stapley though and while Anna and Josh’s romance was a little cliché it was sweet and I really enjoyed following their relationship develop.
My only other gripe with the book has to come with some of the finer details with how it is set during Ramadan. Weddings during this holy period aren’t really a rare thing as I’m sure I’ve heard of people having their Nikkahs then but I just found it a bit off that there was all this talk of prep for a wedding, including a mehndi party with singing and dancing as well as talk of Bollywood movies and stuff during one of the most holy months of the Islamic calendar when the focus should be on ibadah/ prayer especially those last few days?? It’s a month about more than just fasting and I get that this is a fictional romance story so religion isn’t the focus and they’re snowed in at a small town with not much else to do but it felt sort of wrong to be giving an inadequate impression on such an important part of life as a Muslim..
That aside the central messages and themes discussed in the book were well done and I loved pretty much all of the side characters too. Truly wish I could find myself stumbling upon such a wonderful little town with a diverse community such as Snow Falls to have an impromptu, snowed-in break at.
Final Rating – 3.25/5 Stars
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