The River Runs Salt, Runs Sweet: A Memoir of Visegrad, Bosnia : Book Review

"The River Runs Salt Runs Sweet" by Jasmina Dervisevic-Cesic is a truly captivating and emotionally-charged novel that takes us on a profound journey through the lives of its characters in war-torn Bosnia. The author's exquisite prose transports us to the chaotic streets of Sarajevo, allowing us to witness the devastating effects of the Bosnian War firsthand.

Through the eyes of the young protagonist, Sara, we are introduced to the harsh realities of life in a war zone. Dervisevic-Cesic's writing skillfully captures the resilience and indomitable spirit of the human beings caught in the midst of the tragedy. Sara's determination to find hope and rebuild her life serves as a potent reminder of the power of love and the strength of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable loss and heartbreak.

Love is a central theme in this novel, portrayed in all its complexities. It becomes evident that love can both heal and transform, and it is through the exploration of relationships that the characters find solace amidst the chaos. Dervisevic-Cesic delves into the depths of human emotion, painting a vivid picture of the profound impact that love can have in the face of adversity.

Additionally, the novel delves into the themes of identity and belonging, as the characters struggle to maintain their sense of self amidst a society torn apart by war. It is a thought-provoking commentary on the ways in which conflict can shape and redefine an individual's sense of identity and purpose.

Overall, "The River Runs Salt Runs Sweet" is a powerful and poignant novel that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love in the face of overwhelming darkness. Dervisevic-Cesic's beautifully written prose, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make this a book that deserves recognition and wide readership.

What are readers saying?

"The River Runs, Salt Runs Sweet" by Jasmina Dervisevic-Cesic has generated a range of responses from readers. Some found the story compelling and beautifully written, while others struggled to connect with the characters and plot.

Many reviewers praised Dervisevic-Cesic's poetic writing style, describing it as lyrical and evocative. They appreciated how she vividly depicted landscapes and conveyed the characters' emotions. The author's descriptive passages captivated readers and drew them into the story.

However, some reviewers felt that the characters lacked depth and were difficult to relate to. The development of the protagonists fell short, hindering readers' ability to fully engage with their experiences. These readers desired more fleshed-out character arcs and stronger connections between them, believing this would have enhanced their reading experience.

Opinions on the novel's plot were also divided. Some found it intriguing and enjoyed the exploration of themes such as identity, culture, and family relationships. The twists and turns of the story held their attention. On the other hand, a few reviewers believed the plot lacked coherence and struggled to maintain their interest.

In addition, some readers noted that the pacing of the book was slow, leading to a lack of momentum in certain parts. This affected their enjoyment and made it difficult to remain invested in the narrative.

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