Erin Ozcomert is convinced there is something sinister about her father’s apparent suicide during a mysterious visit to Siran in northeastern Turkey, ancestral home of the Ozcomert family.
Upon her graduation from UCLA in Los Angeles, his daughter Erin determines, against the families will, to make a trip to Siran in an effort to learn more about her father’s life, her family roots, and Turkish culture and traditions; and to learn the secrets behind the family feuds and what had transpired to cause her father to be forced into a life of exile and guilt after his family in Turkey were killed in a hateful murder rampage.
Through a number of sub plots Kaya introduces the brutal, vengeful nature of Turkish culture as well as the incredible beauty and opulence of the architect, museums, and exhibits. Erin could not resist the exciting drama, romantic nature, and excitement of the night life in Istanbul. She was soon caught up in an addiction to its cutting edge adventure.
Kaya draws on his training, and experience as an actor, as well as his early passion for reading the works of Kurdish writers of his native country, Turkey. Hi characters are multidimensional, sensitive, naïve, deceptive, vindictive, and romantic.
I appreciated the inclusion of a dictionary or glossary of Turkish terms introduced throughout the book. These terms combined with the use of Turkish dialog add a unique dimension to the authenticity of the culture, the old world charm of ancient Turkey, the opulence, grandeur, and wealth in contrast to its modern ambiance.
Already an award winning author, Behcet Kaya is quickly building up a fan base of loyal readers. His works just keep getting better. I am looking forward to reading a sequel to Erin’s story.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own.