“NOT Here to Stay” by Nf Afrina takes readers on a unique journey through the mystical world of Lagenda, blending time jumps and poetic prose to tell a story of profound healing and resilience.
As a local author, Afrina’s writing style may initially strike readers with its metaphor-heavy and repetitive nature, but it ultimately serves to enhance the emotional depth of the narrative.
The story revolves around Sarah Amani, a Worldsmith who accidentally conjured Lagenda five years ago with her past lover, Malik. What stands out in the book is its ability to evoke a rollercoaster of emotions.
The time jumps are expertly used to make readers rage and cry, providing an emotional experience of Amani’s journey towards forgiveness and self-discovery.
Magical realism can be a hit-or-miss genre, and “Not Here to Stay” falls somewhere in between.
The first half of the book may leave readers somewhat detached from the fantasy aspect, but as the plot unfolds, the connection between Amani and Lagenda becomes clearer.
The characters in the book may initially seem unconnected, but this might be an intentional choice by the author to emphasise the inner struggles each character faces.
Amani’s monologues, particularly in the first part, are deeply relatable, touching upon themes of self-forgiveness and gaslighting.
Throughout the narrative, the author masterfully highlights the toxicity of relationships, as seen in Amani’s experiences with Malik.
Lines like “I don’t mind bruises. I had any of my own inflicted by people I trust,” resonate deeply, exposing the pain of betrayal by those closest to us.
The book’s ending leaves room for interpretation, not neatly categorising itself as either happy or sad. Instead, it reflects the ebb and flow of life’s sweetness and bitterness.
While the book may not be a life-changing experience for everyone, it offers a thought-provoking and emotionally charged adventure through Amani’s world.
Afrina’s storytelling invites readers to embrace the complexities of life, where healing, forgiveness, and resilience are integral parts of the journey.
It’s a book that demands an open heart and offers a unique and emotional reading experience.
Other than that, the author delves deep into sensitive topics such as loss, rape, and grooming, making it a read for those with strong hearts.
However, amidst these heavy themes, there is a balanced infusion of humour, offering readers a glimmer of hope even in the darkest of moments.
Amani is a character who constantly evolves, making her highly relatable and inspiring. Her journey unfolds during her university years, intertwining her dreams and self-discovery within the enigmatic world of Lagenda.
The way this made-up world and the real world are put together in the story is done really well. It keeps the story changing and interesting for the readers.
It can be a bit challenging to follow at times due to the switching between Lagenda and reality, various points of view, and flashbacks.
Still, the narrative’s depth is such that it pulls you in and immerses you in its world.
The book stands as a remarkable exploration of dreams, trauma, and the factors that shape our lives. It encourages readers to question the roots of their emotions, reactions, and the events that have moulded their perceptions.
The story makes you think about who or what has control over your life and if changing how you see it can make a difference.
The mythical world of Lagenda is closely connected to how the characters think and feel. It makes you think about your inner thoughts and how tough experiences can affect you. It shows a new way to understand healing.
In the end, I find that the characters are beautifully imperfect, making it easy to connect with them and understand their journeys.
The romance in the story is a well-thought-out slow burn that feels believable, and the betrayal of Malik evokes empathy for Amani.
Her evolving relationship with Najmi and other characters, including her sister Misya and mother, is organic and heartfelt.
Amani and Najmi’s dynamic is a testament to the author’s ability to craft genuine and endearing connections.
To this end, “Not Here to Stay” shows that healing is a matter of both time and opportunity.
The book resonates, particularly with Muslim readers, offering a refuge within its pages.
It’s not just a story but a space where one can find comfort and healing, and in this sense, it becomes a refuge for the soul.
