Book description
Set in 1950s Sudan, LYRICS ALLEY is the story of the powerful and
sprawling Abuzied dynasty. With Mahmood Bey at its helm, the family can
do no wrong. But when Mahmood's son, Nur - the brilliant, charming heir
to his business empire - suffers a near-fatal accident, his hopes of
university and a glittering future are dashed. Subsequently, his
betrothal to his cousin and sweetheart, Soraya is broken off, another
tragedy that he is almost unable to bear. As British rule is coming to
an end, and the country is torn between modernising influences and the
call of traditions past, the family is divided.
Mahmood's second wife, Nabilah, longs to return to Egypt and leave
behind her the dust of 'backward-looking' Sudan. His first wife,
Waheeba, lives traditionally behind veils and closed doors and resents
Nabilah's influence on Mahmood. Meanwhile, Nur must find a way to live
again in the world and find peace. Moving from the villages of Sudan to
cosmopolitan Cairo and a decimated post-colonial Britain, this is a
sweeping tale of loss, faith and reconciliation. A sophisticated and
emotionally resonant tale.'
