THE SILENCE OF SCHEHERAZADE

Lara Sawalha narrates a sweeping and rich tapestry of historical fiction entrenched in a city now lost to time. Set in Smyrna, present-day Izmir, Turkey, during the first half of the twentieth century, the story follows Levantine, Greek, Turkish, and Armenian families. Suman's novel recounts the intertwining destinies of Edith, Avinesh, Scheherazade, Katina, and more. Sawalha brings to life a large cast of complex and diverse characters who are navigating solitude, love, espionage, cultures, and tragedy. Weaving through a nonlinear narrative, Sawalha skillfully maintains the depth and compassion of each character, vividly and sensuously captivating listeners with this English debut. M.R.R. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2021]