Miro

This author can write a sentence. Each one is thoughtful and vivid, giving the text a fluidity that carries the reader through everything from quiet scenes of self-reflection to suspenseful standoffs between a homegrown resistance and the occupying forces. The settings are also enriched by textured descriptions that put the reader right in the middle of the action.The story structure works well, primarily a chronological telling of events. But strategic flashbacks and the surprise appearance of characters mentioned in passing earlier keep the narrative compelling. There are a plethora of characters to keep track of, and at the beginning, distinguishing among them can be a challenge. Yet eventually most become recognizable as individuals.One weakness in the story is the lack of political stakes. While it’s obvious there’s a conflict between nations, what they’re fighting over or for is never made apparent, aside from the resistance wanting to push the occupiers out of the country. It’s taken as a given that we should be siding with the main characters’ plight, despite not really understanding if they maintain the moral high ground.But that’s a small issue. Overall, the writing, plotting, and characterization are quite good, making for an enjoyable, satisfying read.

Quite the eye opener to the painful struggle against occupation in a country under siege.A powerful page-flipper which gets you immediately hooked from the opening chapters taking you on a dark journey filled with hope and suspense while giving you a sense of freedom.Thank you for the wonderful read A.E. Nasr!