by Suzanne Joinson, Bloomsbury USA, May, 2012 ... good story, great atmosphere, likeable characters and interesting plot
In a present day story that is intertwined the author introduces Frieda, an English woman who has worked in the Moslem world for a think tank trying to sort out the problems in the communication between Christians and Moslems. Frieda is weary of her rootless, peripatetic life and her needy lover Nathaniel when she meets Tayeb a Yemeni immigrant on the lam from the authorities. At the same time she is notified that she is the sole heir to a woman that she has never heard of. Frieda and Tayeb develop a supportive relationship and assist each other in coping with mysteries and changes in their lives.
In the last third of the book the two narratives come together in a clever way. I liked this story, the 1923 parts better than the present day narrative. The exotic and strange life style and customs of Kashgar were fascinating. I also appreciated the elements of true history interspersed into the story - rebellions, uprisings and battles. I liked the writing style; it was straightforward and evocative of the time and place without being overly descriptive. I thought that most of the characters were well developed with clear motivations; I did struggle with the motivations of Millicent.
So for me this was good story, well written with great atmosphere, likeable characters and an interesting plot.
I read an advanced copy of this novel provided by the publisher.
1 comment:
Often, when there is a dual narrative I end up liking one part much more than the other. It sounds like this could happen to me with this book, and I would probably prefer the historical sections. This was a great review and I enjoyed reading your take on it. I will be looking for this one!
Post a Comment