The Return of Faraz Ali (Paperback)

Stunning, not only on account of the author's talent, of which there is clearly plenty, but also in its humanity, in how a book this unflinching in its depiction of class and institutional injustice can still feel so tender . . . The fullness of the characters and their intersecting lives make this far more than a murder mystery . . . Ahmad's compassion, her deep care for the psychological and emotional nuances of her characters, never wavers . . . It extends through generations and transformations of place, all the way to a devastating final chapter, fully human, fully engaged with what makes us human - Omar El Akkad, New York Times Book Review

A stunning debut novel - a noir-inspired thriller that weaves in politics, family ties, corruption and murder, while also being sharp about different kinds of power, particularly as it relates to women. - Kamila Shamsie, Best Summer Books, Observer

A layered, fascinating portrait of a fractured family and of Pakistan. An impressive, gripping debut - Antonia Senior, The Times

The Return of Faraz Ali heralds the arrival of a strikingly accomplished and mature talent. Aamina Ahmad has managed to meld fast-paced, intelligent noir with a devastating portrait of the true costs of ambition and desire. A gripping read that does not let you go, even after the end. - Maaza Mengiste

Aamina Ahmad has done the impossible: made her literary debut with an enduring classic. Essential and compelling. - Adam Johnson

A rich and deeply moving novel about confronting histories both personal and political . . . Marvellous - Yaa Gyasi

In The Return of Faraz Ali, Aamina Ahmad moves across borders and through decades to create a mesmerizing portrayal of crimes and coverups in the walled-off world of Lahore's red-light district. That a novel so epic in scope can remain so intimate at heart is nothing short of astonishing. - Anthony Marra

A gripping read - everything beautifully evoked, from the alleys of the Old City to the atmosphere of corruption and secrets - Kamila Shamsie

This novel has everything a reader could ask for: a sizzling, noirlike plot; political intrigue juxtaposed with a rich intergenerational family saga; capacious, conflicted characters, including women who may be marginalized by society but are masters of their own narratives; and sublime sentences. A debut novelist, Ahmad manages this complexity seamlessly. A feat of storytelling not to be missed. - Kirkus

A riveting exploration of the dangers of patriarchy, politics and power. - Monocle

Extraordinarily accomplished . . . . This is a great novel, rich in setting, shocking in its depiction of brute, inexorable power, but unexpectedly sweet in conclusion. - The Washington Post

The Return of Faraz Ali is a masterpiece. An intricately woven, deeply affecting labyrinth of history, hope, and longing that fulfils its every great ambition. I'm stunned by the gentle grace and spellbinding storytelling of Aamina, a writer I will return to for years to come. - Fatima Farheen Mirza

It starts out as a crime novel . . . and then evolves into so much more . . . come for the evocative writing, the subtle characters, and plot - some of which veered in completely unexpected territory. - NPR

Dark and compelling, this debut novel is one of secrets, murder and loyalty. It's one that will stay with you. - Ms Magazine