Review of Never Let Go

[Chinazo Anozie]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Never Let Go" by Sultan Nasser.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Do you believe in soulmates? How far will you go for love? Never Let Go by Sultan Nasser is a memoir by the author about finding love and fighting for it. Nasser was born in the US but raised in Saudi Arabia, where the poor treatment of women, misuse of power by the authorities, and many more issues ran rampant. Nasser had married young because relationships outside marriage were considered immoral in Saudi Arabia. After his divorce, he went back to the US. He met Yasmeen through a friend, and they started dating even though she was in Saudi Arabia and he was in the US.

Unfortunately, Yasmeen’s parents disapproved of their relationship and rejected the author’s subsequent marriage proposal, but they continued to see each other secretly. Yasmeen was beaten, abused, and locked up by her parents for continuing the relationship. Nasser did all he could to help Yasmeen, including seeking intervention from her family members, the Human Rights Commission in Saudi Arabia, and even the FBI, all to no avail. Knowing what was happening to her without being able to help took a toll on both their physical and mental health. Did Yasmeen and Nasser find a way to their happily ever after?

Never Let Go is a beautifully written and edited book. One of the best things about it is that Nasser’s account is not at all biased; he provides an objective account of his vices and virtues, those of his country, religion, and even the Western culture. It’s rare for authors to be unbiased in their memoirs when it’s infinitely easy to paint themselves in a perfect light. I found the book very educative as I learned a lot about Saudi Arabia’s religious, social, and political climate, such as the fact that the country has no constitution and relies on the Quran and Hadith for its laws. I commend the author’s bravery and honesty in telling his story.

Yasmeen and Nasser’s love showed perseverance; I honestly don’t know if I could have endured the same if I were in their shoes, and for this, I greatly admire them. I liked the pop culture references in the book. The author recommended many good books, series, and movies, most of which I’ve seen and can attest to, like The Dark Knight Trilogy and Breaking Bad. If I absolutely had to nitpick about something, it would be that the author often went into too much detail about these movies or series—so much so that he deviated from the plotline, which could also serve as spoilers for readers yet to see them. However, this was a very minor issue and didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book. The pictures included were the icing at the top of a perfect book. I happily rate Never Let Go by Sultan Nasser 5 out of 5 stars.

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Never Let Go
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[Anozie Stephanie]

Love for me is meant to have its own field, this review tells the story of Nasser and his love story, growing from such a place is already much work to make love work.

[Terry Kimble]

This book sounds like a heart-wrenching and eye-opening read. I did not know Saudi Arabia has a "Human Rights Commission." I am curious if this couple ends up together. I enjoyed this informative review.

[Stephen Christopher 1]

Learning about other cultures via works of fiction is both entertaining and educational. While shocking to hear that Yasmeen's own parents beat her, it's part of that culture. I imagine this is quite an emotional book. Thanks for the excellent review.

[David Awunor]

What an emotional turmoil from just the review. I don't think living in Saudi is that bad. I know they frown upon dating, but I don't believe they are abusive towards women.A beautiful review by the way.

[Sandre Lamar]

"Never Let Go" by Sultan Nasser is an interesting and emotional book about love tested by cultural barriers and adversity. Nasser's honest portrayal of his journey through love and struggle offers profound insights into societal complexities and personal resilience.

[Liam Patel]

Oh my, this review of "Never Let Go" by Sultan Nasser has me intrigued! It seems like a captivating memoir filled with love, sacrifice, and the struggles faced by the couple. The author's unbiased perspective and the insight into Saudi Arabia's culture make it even more fascinating. I appreciate the author's honesty and bravery in sharing their story. I also find it commendable how the book incorporates pop culture references. Overall, it appears to be a worthy read, and I give it a solid 5 out of 5! Absorbing pacing, kept the story moving briskly.