The cover features a window view of a couple standing on a terrace with the old city behind them. The royal window has Arabic inscriptions on it, which gives the book cover a regal look.
Name: The Forty Rules of Love
Author: Elif Shafak
Format: Hardcopy
Number of pages: 350
Availability: Amazon (Buy the paperback here)
Rating: 4/5
The title is well incorporated into the book, mentioning the forty rules of the religion of love by a wandering dervish named Shams of Tabriz. The book is divided into five parts – Earth, Water, Wind, Fire and The Void. The subtitles tell us who is narrating the story in that chapter. It was quite interesting how all the chapters began with the letter B.
The English language was easy to understand. There were a few new words for me to learn, including Arabic words, as I was only familiar with a few.
Nevertheless, the new English word that was fascinating was akimbo. I really wasn’t aware that this position had a name.
This book had a unique ring to it. It’s the story of Ella (in 2008), a housewife and book review reporter who thought she had it all under control until she had to review the book ‘Sweet Blasphemy’, which was based on a story from the 13th century. This book and its author changed her mindset and the way she lived her life. Her relationship with her husband, her thoughts, her children, everything changed, and how. You should definitely read this book if you’re interested in stories related to Sufism and internal peace.
*It was a simple and easy read, though you would like to spend some time understanding each chapter properly.
*Each chapter had its depth.
*I liked the way every chapter had another person narrating the story from their point of view.
*If you’re a homemaker, you will surely resonate with Ella.
*There is a glossary at the end for all the Arabic words in italics.
*The blurb behind the book sort of gives away the end. So, you’re waiting for something to happen, only to find that it happens in the ending chapters.
*I liked learning about the forty rules, though it was too much by the thirtieth one.
Well, honestly, I liked the way the author has incorporated two stories into one book, though I skipped a few chapters of the 13th-century story (after page 250). I read the last two chapters of Shams and Rumi (the past), but my interest mostly lay in Ella’s life (the present) and how she handled it. To conclude, I’d say that the book was interesting and slow but a good read, so if you’re relaxed and not waiting for something to happen, go for it. The end was okay.
Have you read this book?
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
26 Comments
It’s on my TBR!
Heard a lot about this book. I would love to read it. I have a tendency to get attracted to bestsellers but then sometimes it’s not worth the hype. Would definitely like to know the 40 rules!
I read this book few months back. My attention was not completely hooked initially but slowly I started liking it. Thank your for sharing your views.
One of my most favourite author and work ..I don’t remember the number of times I ve re read the book.
TFROL is my all time favorite!! and my love for Shafak is non negotiable. I just love love her writing she gives life to every character even the places
I love the way you review book. You are honest about the pros and cons and let the reader decide if the book is worth picking up. I haven’t read this book although I have heard about it.
I found this book a bit dragging towards the end. The writing is interesting though and the rules make sense. Rereading is needed to understand it properly.
True, Varsha. I did enjoy the book. Only got a little impatient by the end.
This book was gifted to me by a friend but I am yet to read it. Your review made me curious to find out what is that in the book even without reading the blurb as you mentioned it reveals a part in the book that was supposed to be in the end.
I really appreciate how your review captures the duality of The Forty Rules of Love ; the poetic, mystical journey of Shams and Rumi contrasted with Ella’s modern self-discovery. This book is in my reading list and I am going to get it soon.
I enjoyed this review and you have tempted me to not only add this to my TBR but to nudge others down the list to make way for this..I particularly liked the fact that it was narrated from different perspectives.
The glossary for Arabic terms is a thoughtful touch by the author. Makes you feel included as a reader, hai na? You giving it a 4/5 feels like I should at least check the title out.
I hadn’t heard of this book before, but your detailed review made it so easy to understand what to expect. I really appreciate you pointing out both what worked and what didn’t. Not sure if I would pick it up but it’s definitely going on my ‘maybe’ list.
Yes, this is one of the overly hyped books. I loved it, and I think it depends upon your mood when you read the book. Love is universal and is understood by people in different ways. But I loved how you were very honest in your review, esp about skipping pages.
I am trying my rules of Love as of now and its working well… I am not saying love with whom 😉 But Jokes apart I heard a lot about this book but really not sure why even till today never picked a copy for me. But ur review says it has some X factor to try… lets see when I can arrange a copy for me.
Thank you for being honest in your review, Cindy, about skipping pages. Yes, this book is a heavy read, but one of my favorite ones. I paused and put this book away multiple times before I picked it up again. It was a book that spoke to me and made me rethink.
Yes, it was not a quick read.
I really enjoyed this review! Your insights beautifully capture the book’s blend of spirituality and human connection—reminding me why I keep returning to its wisdom.
I’ve been wanting to read this for ages. Just yesterday, I saw it with a pavement vendor in Connaught Place, but I avoid pirated versions, so passed it. But have to get it now, I don’t mind the slow speed as long as the narrative is good.
I haven’t read anything by Elif Shafak so far and have been recommended this one by many. Though I have a copy of Architect’s Apprentice by Elif, I haven’t read it yet. What should I read first? Architect’s Apprentice or this one?
Not sure, Aditya. Check the blurb of both and see what suits you.
A lyrical, soul-stirring read that bridges centuries with ease. Elif Shafak captures love, longing, and mysticism in a way that lingers. Loved your review!
Your review is candid and clear. You didnt, just eulogise the book, but gave a clear review of what to expect.I am totally off reading, and I hope I start again soon.
I already read The Forty Rules of Love and reading your review gave me back that same deep feeling when I read it for the first time.
I like your reviews . They are in simple language , you are honest about what you liked and cover most of the important aspects of the book from cover to blurb to story and pacing.I had added this book to my list but I am not sure I will finish it soon.
Your review is spot on! I have read the book and liked it. Ella’s character is interesting and the part with Shams of Tabriz and Rumi was magical! It’s true that remembering all the 40
rules was difficult but the overall feel of the book is good.