Three Daughters by Consuelo Saah Baehr

An inter-generational story, set mostly in rural Palestine, we meet Miriam, with the strange endearing voice, then her daughter Nadia, who is bright and brave, and finally her daughter, Nijmeh - the shining star and beautiful light of their lives. But there are deep, dark and dangerous secrets hiding in each of their pasts.

Less historical fiction, more family saga, this Audible narration was one of the best I have ever heard. The narrator had a magical, haunting quality for each of the three, distinct, yet unique. I sense that this book was written to be read aloud. The detail becomes less relevant, and the pace of the story can be slower,without affecting the reader's enjoyment. I don't think I would have enjoyed reading it as much - and I hardly ever say that!

The author writes well, with a flow and a charm that sets her stories apart.
However, there were some scenes that were a little jarring, and some reactions that were underplayed. I enjoyed the revealing of the secrets in each generation, but did wonder about plausibility. The ending was ok, but didn't leave a sense of resolution, which was out of kilter with the detail in the rest of the book.

Read it, borrowed from a friend, or the library, when you have a lot of time - it's long. Or listen to it, it's great for slowing the pace somewhat.

A pleasant, could-have-been-better, but not bad-at-all listen.

3 stars

ISBN: 9781477826195

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