The Syrian Virgin is probably the most profound and emotive book I have read. Mr. Zack Love has crafted a unique and beautiful story that makes me think of The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan. Why? Well it has to do with both stories taking on serious issues and writing them in such a way that is both hauntingly beautiful and poignant that even when you close the book, your mind continues to live inside the story. I kept thinking about it every single time I stopped… but stopping wasn’t easy. I couldn’t tear myself away from the book and devoured it almost immediately.

The story follows Anissa (Inas in Arabic) and how she rebuilds her life after traumatic experiences. Through her, we learn about the worsening situation in Syria and her father’s plans to have her leave for America to study and escape the violence. The beginning had me crying first from joy when Anissa received a Syriac cross that was passed down from mother to daughter in her family. It was such a beautiful moment.

Then of course I was crying from another reason. This young girl, only sixteen, goes through some traumatic events to flee from Syria and escape to America. Those events then in turn haunt her and the only way she gets through her nightmares is the promise she made to her father. Her father's last words are what give her the strength to carry on.

She is incredibly grown up and wise beyond her years. The struggles she faces makes you appreciate what you have and the good fortunes that we take for granted. My favourite quote has to be when Mr. Love refers to Theodore Herzl. The quote is, “If you will it, it is no dream.” Words to live by.

But have no fear, it isn’t all serious. Mr. Love balances the issues in Syria with a romance. A love triangle to be exact with two older men. Michael Kassab, Syrian-American leader working to found the first Mideast Christian state. And Julien Morales, Anissa’s Columbia University professor who runs a $20 billion hedge fund.

Poor Anissa is torn between these two attractive and powerful men. I adore reading the playful banter between Anissa and Julien. Despite the age gap, they get along so well. And they are able to have deep and meaningful conversations. And there is so much more to Julien than meets the eye. He is incredibly compassionate and I love how he takes care of this sparrow that he names Icarus.

Mr. Love tackles contemporary issues with sensitivity and poise. He gives each of us food for thought. It gives us the opportunity to look long and hard at the events taking place in the world. His powerful writing is skilful and artistic which allows him to effortlessly blend religion, politics and romance into a seamless tale. Mr. Love should be extremely proud and pleased with this book. I’m only devastated that it has a cliffhanger! So many questions to answer and uncertainties but it mirrors life and how things can end without a resolution. I’m extremely excited for the second instalment and can’t wait to read it! But everyone should read The Syrian Virgin. It is a fantastic piece of writing.