Novels based on some other countries always intrigues me. I prefer them even more when written by a foreign writer. There is so much to learn. You get to know about various people, their culture and history. They bring different flavors and sentiments, along with enhancing your knowledge. It was something on my mind when I sat with the book Invisible Ties by Nadya.

Story In Brief

The book has a captivating storyline. The protagonist Noor concedes to marry Meekal after the dramatic turn of circumstances. But to her horror, this was a marriage of convenience for Meekal. Trapped in an unwanted and loveless marriage, that also in a foreign land, will keep you hooked to see how Noor manages.

Flawless Writing

The author has an excellent command over the language. She has churned out beautiful and complex sentences throughout the novel describing surroundings, monuments, and whatnot. They could delight anyone who loves to read literary genius books with a high aesthetic touch. I am so impressed with the author’s vast vocabulary and ability to use them with deftness.

Moving To Many Places

Set in Pakistan, the story will take you to other places like Singapore, Malacca, and London towards the climax. The author has tried to capture the monumental implications of these cities. You will also find the subtle presence of India, as well. Noor and her mother in law have a special affinity for Mughal architecture. But the author failed to capture the essence of these cities.

Description Overshadows The Main Story

The book has its own literary merits, but the description overburdens the narrative. In lieu, to arch out the details of places, clothes, etc. the author completely lost the focus to bring out emotions. It was like a person from far away, but when you come nearer, it turns out to be a robotic machine. I was not able to connect with any of the characters.

The author was brilliant in capturing Noor’s childhood loneliness with her attachment to a mirror. But that was it. The rest of the story was insipid to read. Emotions, feelings and expression, inner turmoil, or desires of the characters never find there way out. I was not able to feel their suffering or happiness. There was no feeling of hatred for Meekal or his mother nor any empathy for Noor.

The dialogues further weigh down the story. Most of them were going haywire, not in sync with the narrative, and going off the track. Many conversations were repetitive and weird.

The Verdict

The undue emphasis on descriptions, decorative narrative, no real engaging conversation, and scanty characterization with lack of emotions made this book a dull read. The storyline and plot have all the potential to become a great novel, but the author spent her precious words in describing things and not emotions.