PositiveDawn\"At 464 pages, the book is a tad slow-paced at some instances. But that should not deter the avid reader. What might, however, is something else. While it’s true that Shafak manages to integrate numerous elements in her work with thorough, meticulous research, it’s also possible for readers to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information, which may lead to a sense of the narrative being cluttered rather than balanced ... Shafak creates a dense narrative that demands careful attention and could also induce some polarization, especially with what is going on in the realm of geopolitics currently. The inclusion of magical realism adds another layer of intricacy, potentially confusing those who prefer a more straightforward storyline. This may lead to a reading experience that feels more challenging rather than engaging. When not managed well, this can alienate readers rather than draw them in. However, the beautiful prose, powerful analogies, well-crafted characters and the varied layers of meanings given to several elements balance things out.\
