This novel is inspired by real events which have occurred on the island of Cyprus . It is the story of the disappearance of a domestic worker , Nisha, and the search for her by Petra , her employer and Yiannis , Nisha’s lover .
I was immediately drawn in to the story by the dual narrative of Petra and Yiannis , each taking alternate chapters . As the story progresses you gradually learn about Nisha from the two different points of view. Petra’s perspective as an employer ( who at first barely noticed Nisha at all ) gradually alters as she realises how indispensable Nisha had become . Yiannis’ perspective as a lover shows Nisha’s loving nature ,and perhaps her disappointment in the man he had become .
I found the the story both compelling and moving . The songbirds in the title are the victims of the poachers . The description of the destruction of these beautiful creatures a clear comparison to the treatment of some of the young female migrant workers . Beautifully written it really tugs at the heartstrings.
I was immediately drawn in to the story by the dual narrative of Petra and Yiannis , each taking alternate chapters . As the story progresses you gradually learn about Nisha from the two different points of view. Petra’s perspective as an employer ( who at first barely noticed Nisha at all ) gradually alters as she realises how indispensable Nisha had become . Yiannis’ perspective as a lover shows Nisha’s loving nature ,and perhaps her disappointment in the man he had become .
I found the the story both compelling and moving . The songbirds in the title are the victims of the poachers . The description of the destruction of these beautiful creatures a clear comparison to the treatment of some of the young female migrant workers . Beautifully written it really tugs at the heartstrings.