Review of Gold Bars and Gowns

[Catherine Sweet]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Gold Bars and Gowns" by Nadia Butler.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Gold Bars and Gowns by Nadia Butler is a novel about Aaliyah, a young Muslim woman. Her family consists of her dad, mum and brother. She is a fashion student who lives in a student’s flat during the week and the family home at weekends.

Aaliyah’s family home is modest, and the family runs a sweet shop, so it is a surprise to learn they are very wealthy but keep that to themselves. Aaliyah’s Muslim faith is fundamental to her, and the book features Islamic phrases, greetings and expressions of gratitude. Aaliyah also mentions the names and rituals for prayers. This was a lovely part of the book and made the character seem more real.

Aaliyah’s life includes attending college and spending time with her family. She makes friends with Ella, a fellow fashion student and Ella’s brother, Elias. Aaliyah and Ella are passionate about fashion, and it’s interesting to hear about the clothes they design and make. Aaliyah mentioned the drinks, pastries, and meals she had. I enjoyed reading about the delicious food and drinks.

Alongside Aaliyah’s daily life, there is a storyline involving crime and the police. This storyline was incorporated well, but I didn’t find it as compelling as everything else about Aaliyah’s life.

The book has a lovely writing style, it is eloquent and clear. The story has twists and turns, and I was surprised several times. I felt the strongest part of the book was the main character, Aaliyah. I haven’t read a book about a young Muslim woman before and I found this refreshing. I felt very drawn to Aaliyah and found her character likeable and authentic. All the characters in the story are well-drawn and believable. I thought it worked very well to have a handful of characters that had depth and seemed real.

I liked almost everything about this book. The only thing I wasn’t so keen on was the overuse of the word kindly. Although using this word worked well sometimes, I felt less use would have worked better.

Gold Bars and Gowns is suitable for all ages. It would suit young adults and anyone who enjoys a well-told story with great characters. I’ve mentioned many positives about the book above and a couple of minor negatives. Overall, I think this is a gem of a book. I'd like to read more books by Nadia Butler in the future and I hope she writes another book about Aaliyah. I award this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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Gold Bars and Gowns
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[Pearl Flourish]

A refreshing and beautifully written story with a strong, authentic main character. I love how it blends culture, fashion, and a bit of mystery while making Aaliyah’s world feel so real.

[Shaniz Tobiaz]

Good written review, i will give this book a try. Its a must read for me.

[Evanson Mutwiri]

Gold Bars and Gowns by Nadia Butler is an inspiring and heartwarming novel that follows the journey of Aaliyah, a young Muslim woman balancing her education, family life, and personal beliefs. The story provides a compelling exploration of culture, faith, and self-discovery while immersing readers in the everyday experiences of a dedicated fashion student.

Aaliyah’s life is a blend of simplicity and hidden wealth. She comes from a modest home where her family runs a small sweet shop. However, as the story unfolds, we learn that her family is secretly wealthy, a detail they keep private to maintain their humility. This contrast between modest living and financial security adds depth to the novel and creates an intriguing narrative about values and personal choices.

The portrayal of Aaliyah’s faith is one of the strongest aspects of the book. Her Muslim beliefs are deeply woven into her daily life, making her character authentic and relatable. The inclusion of Islamic phrases, greetings, and expressions of gratitude adds a cultural richness that enhances the reading experience. The author also takes the time to explain the rituals and prayers in a way that feels natural, providing insight into Aaliyah’s spiritual life without overwhelming the reader. This aspect of the novel is particularly refreshing, as it offers a respectful and genuine representation of a practicing Muslim woman in contemporary society.

Aaliyah’s passion for fashion adds another layer to the story, making it both modern and relatable for young readers. As a fashion student, she navigates the challenges of academic life while also dealing with the expectations of her family and her faith. This creates a unique dynamic that many readers, especially young women, can relate to—pursuing personal ambitions while staying true to one’s cultural and religious identity. The depiction of her student life, friendships, and aspirations makes the novel engaging and realistic.

One of the most interesting elements of the book is how Aaliyah balances her independence with her close family ties. During the week, she lives in a student flat, allowing her to experience a sense of freedom and responsibility. However, on weekends, she returns to her family home, reinforcing her strong connection to her loved ones. This balance between modernity and tradition is a recurring theme in the novel, making it both thought-provoking and relatable.

The writing style of Nadia Butler is simple yet elegant, allowing readers to connect with Aaliyah’s emotions and experiences. The storytelling is engaging, with well-paced narration that keeps the reader interested throughout the book. The characters, particularly Aaliyah and her family, are well-developed and feel authentic, adding to the novel’s overall charm.

In conclusion, Gold Bars and Gowns is a beautifully written novel that explores themes of faith, ambition, family, and self-identity. Aaliyah’s journey is both inspiring and relatable, making this book a must-read for those who enjoy contemporary fiction with cultural depth. Nadia Butler has crafted a story that is both meaningful and enjoyable, leaving readers with valuable life lessons and a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.

[George Bastem]

A refreshing story with a strong, authentic lead and a rich cultural backdrop. Aaliyah’s journey sounds both relatable and unique, making it a compelling read.