The Doves Necklace: Winner of the International Prize for Arabic Fiction Paperback – August 14, 2018

Having a tough time getting into this book. May save I for a winter read when there isn't as much going on.

Im probably not being fair here because I don't think I understood the culture enough to follow the storyline. I found it a hard go but did make it to the end. I think the prose is excellent and I think I am at fault here. If you don't have a clear grasp of Middle Eastern culture you won't follow this one.

This book was the March selection for our book club. Not a single member, and we are a diverse group, finished reading The Dove's Necklace. Several of us used the book as a springboard to cultural research. The plot meanders, is unclear, and has irrelevant characters, locations, scenarios and premise. It really needs significant editing. All of us made a concerted effort to soldier on but ultimately found the book to be a disappointing waste of time.

Here's the full sentence from Booklist, not the partial quote you see on Amazon: "This intriguing narrative style somehow fits the mysteries of Mecca, but it may leave some Western readers in the dark."

The Dove's Necklace by Raja Alem is a captivating novel that will lure all readers to its great depth. A mystery that intrigues the soul to flip its pages in a haste to find out its secrets. What lies deep in this novel is a history that will blow readers away with every word. Raja Alem is indeed a talented writer with a way of bringing, to life, the murder, customs, and investigation that is portrayed in this stunning tale. The point of view is enjoyable. Told from an alley way's point of view...was a brilliant idea. This sets readers, onto a journey, that will keep them hooked until the last page. Ever wondered about the city of Mecca and what secrets it keeps or the lives of the people? The Dove's Necklace masterfully covers these and many more interesting questions that will surely rise as readers keep digging deeper into this powerful story.Inside this riveting tale, The Dove's Necklace, opens readers to the place where the danger and mystery begin. It's also a place with tons of history such as wars, kingdoms, and customs that keep one's mind buzzing with action. Raja Alem's story is about love and revenge. Soon, readers are taken where a dead woman's body lies...not only is she dead but also completely nude. No one knows the woman's name...this scene and the people's reaction to the dead woman's body intrigues readers deeply. Who is she? Why her? Who killed her and why left nude? These questions and many others are answered but will keep readers guessing and on the edge of their seats as they rush through the pages with a burning intensity to find out the answers. I loved reading this Arabic story. Traveling all the way to Mecca without so much as leaving my seat was amazing. The raw beauty of the novel will hold readers in like prisoners...Intriguing, dramatic, and suspenseful...The Dove's Necklace is a must read for all. Giving readers worldwide a glimpse into one of the most famous cities of all time.

Alem is a master.