Official Review: Remembering Hope by Parastoo Rezai
Sometimes we plan things, but the universe has other plans. When Shirin sets Bahar up with her cousin, Omid, it is love at first sight for the two adults. They marry months after they meet. They plan to live a long and fulfilled life together, living long enough to see their grandchildren. But after twenty years together, Omid gets diagnosed with glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. Bahar’s entire life is altered, and she must learn to be brave for both herself and her children. It seems that there is tragedy after tragedy for this strong woman. There are money problems, and she needs to get back to her long-abandoned career. Grab a copy of this book to find out how Bahar, with her family's help, navigates life after experiencing such hardships.
Remembering Hope by Parastoo Rezai was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. The author perfectly wrote a story of sickness and tragedy while giving readers a feel of love and immense kindness. I felt so many emotions and once doubted that I could get through the book. Omid’s situation broke my heart, especially when I saw how it affected their kids. But the devotion and help that the family offered Bahar and Omid were beautiful to read. This talent that Rezai has shown is laudable. The writer infused Iranian culture in the story, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and learn the different dishes.
The writer did a great job with the characterization. Every prominent character was wholesome. Each character had growth to match their present circumstance. Rezai gave the novel a realistic storyline. Nothing felt forced, not even Omid’s and Bahar’s rush to get married. When the illness came, Rezai showed all the stages of grief and sadness that Bahar had experienced. Also, Bahar did not get everything on a gold platter; she had to sort out her emotions, health, and finances with grit. Readers will appreciate the love that Bahar, her family, and her friends share. While readers learn of grief, they will also learn of rebirth and love.
I had nothing to dislike about this book. The story is told from Bahar’s perspective, showing her emotions and interpretations of every situation. This was a fitting narrative style because this is primarily Bahar’s story. Bahar showed immense strength; she was a skilled multitasker even though she doubted herself non-stop. If you are reading this review and you are a strong woman or want to be one, I strongly suggest that you read this book. Bahar’s story will make you laugh, cry, gasp, and will still inspire you. Not only Bahar, but readers will also be glad to meet Aunt Maryam, Golnaz, Stella, and Shirin. I especially loved Golnaz.
This book felt professionally edited, but I found some errors that should be corrected. Because I believe the book, despite the errors, is professionally edited, I rate it 4 out of 4 stars. The errors are not enough to deduct a star. I also recommend the book to people struggling with grief. Remembering Hope is sure to help you find some strength and hope. There is some eroticism, but there is no explicit content.
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Remembering Hope
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