Haveli (Shabanu Series)

"Haveli" continues the story of Shabanu, who is the fourth and youngest wife of a rich and powerful man. She is looked down upon by the other wives, because she is from a desert nomadic tribe, and is considered beneath them. However, with her intelligence and her free spirit, she manages to survive and thrive in this life that was forced upon her. "Haveli" also tells the story of the political intrigues of her husband's family, where wealthy men are both members of the government as well as powerful leaders of close-knit family tribal units. It tells of the culture clashes as younger family members try to mesh the modern ideas learned in western universities with the ancient traditions that still prevail in their homeland. Once again, Ms. Staples writes a fascinating story that also gives a glimpse into other cultures.

This is a great follow up story to Shabanu, in which you learn what happens next in Shabanu's life. The writing is, indeed, colorful and the peek into what life is like for girls and women in Pakistan today is helpful. In case you're wondering, it's not good. They're so far from needing to be told to "Lean In" it's painful. I have no idea if the depiction is perfect, but the author likely has a good idea since she's spent time there. Anyway, beautifully written, sweet love story, realistic characters and a plot that will keep making you want more. I want to read the (not yet written) third book now!

I liked the first book and had to have the sequel, Haveli. While Shabanu could have stood on its own and the reader left to answer questions, too many are left at the end of Haveli. For the most part, Haveli is too predictable during the main part of the story and the ending left too open. Another book would be nice to close the loose ends of this second book and bring things full circle. What happens to Mumtaz? Does Omar ever go up to the top of the haveli and discover its newest "ghost"? And the aunt can't live forever. What will happen the the haunted haveli then? It's a good read and a good source for discussion on what happens next.

This is the second book in this series. It's story about a young girl married way too young and the persecution she encounters is very disturbing and sad. However, this is an important book for teenage girls to read and to learn about life as a woman in traditional cultures. The author both respects the culture and questions it and really makes you think.

I read this in high school and decided to add it to my kindle library. I'm on a quest to find all the books that brought me so much joy and adventure in my growing up years. Staples is a great Author.

This is in a wonderful three-book series. It is engaging, exciting and provides great insight into life of people, especially women, in Pakistan.

Such a bittersweet book. It transported me to another world and showed me a culture I never knew. Reading the first book Shabanu made me desperate to read this one. I strongly suggest both books. Suzanne Fisher Staples truly brought to life this young woman and her struggles. Absolutely breathtaking.

i was so excited to read this- not even knowing there wuz a sequal! i'm hoping for a follow up but the're probly wont be! if uve read the first book u HAVE to read this- and it leaves u hanging in a way! this has all kinds of plots and romances that will leave u wanting to read more and more! i definetely recommend this to others in high school- this is a MUST read!

Loved it!