Sahar has loved her best friend Nasrin since childhood, but gay relationships are illegal in Iran. When Nasrin’s parents announce her arranged marriage, Sahar frantically searches for options and considers sex reassignment to allow her to be with Nasrin.
Read more about this book from writer and reviewer Bogi Takács
Publisher’s Description
Seventeen-year-old Sahar has been in love with her best friend, Nasrin, since they were six. They’ve shared stolen kisses and romantic promises. But Iran is a dangerous place for two girls in love—Sahar and Nasrin could be beaten, imprisoned, even executed if their relationship came to light.
So they carry on in secret—until Nasrin’s parents announce that they’ve arranged for her marriage. Nasrin tries to persuade Sahar that they can go on as they have been, only now with new comforts provided by the decent, well-to-do doctor Nasrin will marry. But Sahar dreams of loving Nasrin exclusively—and openly.
Then Sahar discovers what seems like the perfect solution. In Iran, homosexuality may be a crime, but to be a man trapped in a woman’s body is seen as nature’s mistake, and sex reassignment is legal and accessible. As a man, Sahar could be the one to marry Nasrin. Sahar will never be able to love the one she wants, in the body she wants to be loved in, without risking her life. Is saving her love worth sacrificing her true self?
Genre: Contemporary
Representation:
Gender:
Cis girls: Nasrin, Sahar
Note: Sahar explores transitioning but does not identify as trans
Many side trans characters
Sexual Orientation:
Lesbian/Queer: Nasrin, Sahar
Romantic Orientation:
Homoromantic: Nasrin, Sahar
Race/Ethnicity:
Middle Eastern/North African: Nasrin, Sahar
Religion
Islam
Trigger warnings: homophobia, questionable trans portrayal. See review above.