Review: A very intriguing journey of forbidden love
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 3, 2013
Inshallah means "God Willing" in Arabic. This book took me on a journey that I couldn't have imagined going on when I began reading this.Inshallah is the story of Jinniya, a young Muslim girl and Mark, an Englishman, both living in Saudi Arabia. In a story of forbidden love, Jinniya and Mark struggle with the religious and cultural barriers to their relationship. An accidental meeting and complete coincidence, they find themselves drawn to each other immediately.Jinniya has traveled to visit with her brother, Ali in the town where they grew up. While at the airport, she sees a Westerner and is intrigued by him. When Mark senses eyes on him, he is completely taken aback by the draw that he feels to the young woman behind the Muslim veil.A second chance meeting brings Jinniya and Mark together again. It is then that they realize that Mark is a business associate to Ali. They also feel the connection between themselves, and know that this is more than just a physical attraction. Mark and Jinniya meet secretly to explore their love because it is forbidden for them to be together. The laws and religious barriers stand in their way of being free and happy together.When Ali finds out about their relationship, he is torn between his devotion to his sister and his devotion to Islam. Ali must decide to keep with Muslim law or supporting his sister in her desire to be with the man she loves.I was immediately drawn into this story. I have always been a huge fan of history and studying different cultures. The author, I feel did a wonderful job in capturing the essence of what a young Muslim girl must have been feeling trying to find her way in life and love. I truly enjoyed this story. As the author said in the preface, the ending really does leave the story open to interpretation as to what was really right and wrong. I know what my feelings were, and I will leave you to make your decision as well. This was an extremely enjoyable read, and I would highly recommend it.