The Kindness of Enemies by Leila Aboulela

The Kindness of Enemies

by Leila Aboulela

The new novel from three times Orange Prize longlisted Leila Aboulela

Natasha Wilson knows how difficult it is to fit in. Born to a Russian mother and a Muslim father, she feels adrift in Scotland and longs for a place which really feels like home.

Then she meets Oz, a charismatic and passionate student at the university where Natasha teaches. As their bond deepens, stories from Natasha's research come to life - tales of forbidden love and intrigue in the court of the Tsar.

But when Oz is suspected of radicalism, Natasha's own work and background suddenly come under the spotlight. As suspicions grow around her, and friends and colleagues back away, Natasha stands to lose the life she has fought to build.

Reviewed by moraa on

3 of 5 stars

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There were limits to how much he could reveal, restraints that he imposed on himself in order to continue to succeed.

3.5 stars

I liked it well enough though I had the feeling that certain relationships could have been explored further, perhaps even blossomed. I didn't like the end because I felt it left too many loose strings though it's possible this was the author's intention.

All the same, it was a wonderful learning opportunity.

Can't believe it took this long to finish though.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 8 December, 2019: Finished reading
  • 8 December, 2019: Reviewed