Author: Yasmina Khadra

This novel is written by a former officer in the Algerian army. Although it doesn’t give a deep insight into the people of Kabul it was an interesting read. Any story that starts off with the stoning of a prostitute has my attention.

The story follows the lives of two different couple. Mohsen and Zenaida lead a privileged life prior to the Taliban taking control. They now barely survive but are aware they a better off than many. Atiq is employed by the Taliban; he and his wife Musarrat fail to see where his position has helped them. As the story progresses you see how each couple envision their futures.

Goodreads Rating: * * * *

Author: Marilynne Robinson

This initial review came from an older version of my website. No idea of the actual date but the file the review is contained in is dated 2012.

Initial Review: The title came to my attention through an Amazon newsletter. I’d never read the author so thought I would read her first book as a test. The book won a couple of awards, and was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. I enjoyed the book even though it may be considered a bit dark. I wasn’t certain until the very end whether or not things were going to “turn out okay”, but they did – sort of.

I don’t have much to add to this review. This time through I found the story less intriguing (I really didn’t remember it from the last reading) but the language used was beautiful and I’ll keep it on my shelf for that reason.

Goodreads Rating: * * * *