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Almost a Turkish Soap Opera
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An unusual phenomenon in the East is taking Arab and Eastern European homes by storm. Women, men, teens, even children are rearranging their lives to catch the latest Turkish soap operas on their televisions. Turkish soaps dubbed in many different languages have everyone in the East talking about their favorite soap. Even men who deny watching, when asked, are able to repeat word for word from the most popular shows.
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a story about Adel,a young Turkish man whose family has lived in poverty while his grand uncle controls the inheritance money which rightfully belongs to his father. Adel travels to the USA with his best friend Kamil, works illegally, and is deported back to Istanbul. He flies to Canada, marries his rich grand uncle's spoiled obnoxious granddaughter in exchange for his permanent resident status. He becomes infatuated with his beautiful English teacher and tries to hide this from his wife. How did his life turn into a Turkish soap opera?
The novel paints a vivid portrayal of the lives and struggles of young modern Muslim adults trying to make a life in the West. The story will attract audiences of popular contemporary movies such as the Kite Runner and the Brick Lane. A published author, Anne-Rae Vasquez, wrote the novel, Almost a Turkish Soap Opera (to be released in 2012), Gathering Dust, a collection of poems, and Teach Yourself Great Web Design in a Week, published by Sams.net (a division of Macmillan Publishing).
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a directorial debut, an original screenplay and novel by Anne-Rae Vasquez. Her love of watching Turkish soap opera series (dubbed in Arabic) inspired her to write a story in the style of a modern day Turkish soap opera.
The feature film screenplay was produced by Joseph Khalil, Sababa Emporium Film Productions (http://www.sababaemporium.com) with AR Films into an award winning feature film, short film and series.
Season 1 of the Web series, which is a prequel to the feature film, was launched in December 2011 as a weekly one 5 minute episode released on their YouTube channel and has since been syndicated on BlipTV, iTunes Video podcast, Web Series Channel, Mingle Media TV, Open Film channel, Viki Channel, Daily Motion, Web Series Network and more.
The interest in the film and the web series is reflected on the Almost a Turkish Soap Opera Facebook fan page which now has over 8400 fans and their YouTube channel has over 7800 subscribers and 215,000+ views. Sababa Emporium plans to release the feature film on DVD in the winter of 2012.
Updated information can be found at www.almostaturkishsoapopera.com .
An unusual phenomenon in the East is taking Arab and Eastern European homes by storm. Women, men, teens, even children are rearranging their lives to catch the latest Turkish soap operas on their televisions. Turkish soaps dubbed in many different languages have everyone in the East talking about their favorite soap. Even men who deny watching, when asked, are able to repeat word for word from the most popular shows.
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a story about Adel,a young Turkish man whose family has lived in poverty while his grand uncle controls the inheritance money which rightfully belongs to his father. Adel travels to the USA with his best friend Kamil, works illegally, and is deported back to Istanbul. He flies to Canada, marries his rich grand uncle's spoiled obnoxious granddaughter in exchange for his permanent resident status. He becomes infatuated with his beautiful English teacher and tries to hide this from his wife. How did his life turn into a Turkish soap opera?
The novel paints a vivid portrayal of the lives and struggles of young modern Muslim adults trying to make a life in the West. The story will attract audiences of popular contemporary movies such as the Kite Runner and the Brick Lane. A published author, Anne-Rae Vasquez, wrote the novel, Almost a Turkish Soap Opera (to be released in 2012), Gathering Dust, a collection of poems, and Teach Yourself Great Web Design in a Week, published by Sams.net (a division of Macmillan Publishing).
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a directorial debut, an original screenplay and novel by Anne-Rae Vasquez. Her love of watching Turkish soap opera series (dubbed in Arabic) inspired her to write a story in the style of a modern day Turkish soap opera.
The feature film screenplay was produced by Joseph Khalil, Sababa Emporium Film Productions (http://www.sababaemporium.com) with AR Films into an award winning feature film, short film and series.
Season 1 of the Web series, which is a prequel to the feature film, was launched in December 2011 as a weekly one 5 minute episode released on their YouTube channel and has since been syndicated on BlipTV, iTunes Video podcast, Web Series Channel, Mingle Media TV, Open Film channel, Viki Channel, Daily Motion, Web Series Network and more.
The interest in the film and the web series is reflected on the Almost a Turkish Soap Opera Facebook fan page which now has over 8400 fans and their YouTube channel has over 7800 subscribers and 215,000+ views. Sababa Emporium plans to release the feature film on DVD in the winter of 2012.
Updated information can be found at www.almostaturkishsoapopera.com .
- GenresFiction
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2012
30 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Anne-Rae Vasquez
19 books154 followersGold winner - Readers' Favorite Book Award Among Us Trilogy
Anne-Rae Vasquez's latest novel, Reveal book 3 of the Among Us Trilogy, is available on Amazon.
Her previous novels were RESIST and Doubt, Books 1 and 2 of the Among Us Trilogy, Gold winner of the Readers' Favorite Book Awards. The Among Us Trilogy questions what is beyond the reality of this world and ties in different supernatural religious beliefs of God, Heaven, Purgatory, Limbo and Hell, angels and demons, apocalypse, spirituality and fantasy by mixing themes from shows like Fringe and Supernatural to create an end of the world religious paranormal mystery thriller.
Her debut novel, Almost a Turkish Soap Opera, was adapted into a screenplay and later produced into an award winning feature film and web series and was her directorial debut. Her other works include: Gathering Dust - a collection of poems, Salha's Secrets to Middle Eastern Cooking Cookbook and Teach Yourself Great Web Design in a Week, published by Sams.net (a division of Macmillan Publishing).
In her parallel life, she hosts/produces Fiction Frenzy TV, a VLog channel featuring indie artists, authors, filmmakers and musicians. In addition to this, she freelances as a journalist for Blasting News (and previously Digital Journal) and manages a production department.
Anne-Rae Vasquez's latest novel, Reveal book 3 of the Among Us Trilogy, is available on Amazon.
Her previous novels were RESIST and Doubt, Books 1 and 2 of the Among Us Trilogy, Gold winner of the Readers' Favorite Book Awards. The Among Us Trilogy questions what is beyond the reality of this world and ties in different supernatural religious beliefs of God, Heaven, Purgatory, Limbo and Hell, angels and demons, apocalypse, spirituality and fantasy by mixing themes from shows like Fringe and Supernatural to create an end of the world religious paranormal mystery thriller.
Her debut novel, Almost a Turkish Soap Opera, was adapted into a screenplay and later produced into an award winning feature film and web series and was her directorial debut. Her other works include: Gathering Dust - a collection of poems, Salha's Secrets to Middle Eastern Cooking Cookbook and Teach Yourself Great Web Design in a Week, published by Sams.net (a division of Macmillan Publishing).
In her parallel life, she hosts/produces Fiction Frenzy TV, a VLog channel featuring indie artists, authors, filmmakers and musicians. In addition to this, she freelances as a journalist for Blasting News (and previously Digital Journal) and manages a production department.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 25, 2013
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So, I have had this review in draft form for a couple weeks now, because it was so difficult for me to properly review this book. I didn't want to be overly critical or complementary of something based on my own subjective tastes and interests. I rarely read out of my comfort zone, which is something I've tried working on to expand my horizons and so I could expose myself to different types/genres of writing that I would almost never pick up otherwise. And this story certainly takes me away from my standard literary fare, and deserved a more objective review than I would have written right after I finished reading it. Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is precisely what the title intimates, and while I was very entertained by the plot I was not so much a fan of the layout of the novel. This story was written as a screenplay, and reads just as a television show summary would. Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a fascinating look into the Turkish culture in today's society, and is worthy of the 4 out of 5 stars I'm giving to it.
As I stated above, I was not a fan of the layout. Screenplays are difficult to read because it's essentially just a play by play of what would be happening in the show/movie. There is little in the way of inner dialogue and conflict; most of the writing is devoted to the actions and what the characters are doing. I need inner conflict! I need to hear more of what's going on in Adel's mind, and what he's thinking about throughout his dramatic time in America and Canada. He's got a very interesting inner dialogue, based on what Vasquez did put in her story. I could definitely see this on TV, though, kind of a dramatic Turkish "Days of Our Lives" or something else (I only know that show because my mother used to watch it) :P
Although I would have preferred to see a 'standard' novel version of this story, the plot and the characters are a lot of fun. The plot is interesting, easy to follow, and fun to read, and offers a lot of insight into the lives of modern Muslim families. Adel and Kamil are likable characters, and I had a good time reading a story where I had to really extrapolate to picture myself in their shoes (particularly since I am not Muslim, and won't really have to worry about having an arranged, loveless marriage). I would definitely feel the same way though, and fight with my family to be able to pave my own way through life, and marry who I choose, rather than who my family decides I should marry.
All in all, while this wasn't something I normally sink my teeth into, I'm glad I did and I definitely recommend it for anyone who regularly watches/reads soap opera types of stories, or who's looking to try something new and exciting. Who knows, you might learn something new, or just find a new genre you enjoy!
So, I have had this review in draft form for a couple weeks now, because it was so difficult for me to properly review this book. I didn't want to be overly critical or complementary of something based on my own subjective tastes and interests. I rarely read out of my comfort zone, which is something I've tried working on to expand my horizons and so I could expose myself to different types/genres of writing that I would almost never pick up otherwise. And this story certainly takes me away from my standard literary fare, and deserved a more objective review than I would have written right after I finished reading it. Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is precisely what the title intimates, and while I was very entertained by the plot I was not so much a fan of the layout of the novel. This story was written as a screenplay, and reads just as a television show summary would. Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a fascinating look into the Turkish culture in today's society, and is worthy of the 4 out of 5 stars I'm giving to it.
As I stated above, I was not a fan of the layout. Screenplays are difficult to read because it's essentially just a play by play of what would be happening in the show/movie. There is little in the way of inner dialogue and conflict; most of the writing is devoted to the actions and what the characters are doing. I need inner conflict! I need to hear more of what's going on in Adel's mind, and what he's thinking about throughout his dramatic time in America and Canada. He's got a very interesting inner dialogue, based on what Vasquez did put in her story. I could definitely see this on TV, though, kind of a dramatic Turkish "Days of Our Lives" or something else (I only know that show because my mother used to watch it) :P
Although I would have preferred to see a 'standard' novel version of this story, the plot and the characters are a lot of fun. The plot is interesting, easy to follow, and fun to read, and offers a lot of insight into the lives of modern Muslim families. Adel and Kamil are likable characters, and I had a good time reading a story where I had to really extrapolate to picture myself in their shoes (particularly since I am not Muslim, and won't really have to worry about having an arranged, loveless marriage). I would definitely feel the same way though, and fight with my family to be able to pave my own way through life, and marry who I choose, rather than who my family decides I should marry.
All in all, while this wasn't something I normally sink my teeth into, I'm glad I did and I definitely recommend it for anyone who regularly watches/reads soap opera types of stories, or who's looking to try something new and exciting. Who knows, you might learn something new, or just find a new genre you enjoy!
September 30, 2012
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera becomes more interesting as you read on. As the drama goes into full swing, it's difficult to put the book down even for a short break. The characters of this book are colorful; perhaps many of them resemble the characters in some Turkish soap operas, though I haven't watched one.
Action begins when the 25-year-old Adel -- handsome, business savvy, and sometimes quixotic -- leaves his home in Istanbul and arrives at Los Angeles with his best friend Kamil. He meets Nora, who visits LA from Vancouver, Canada, and then falls for her, but the meeting is cut short because Adel is manipulated by his grand uncle, a domineering, contemptible figure to Adel's family. Mirwan, a pawn of Adel's grand uncle, reports Adel to the U.S. immigration services. Adel is detained and subsequently deported back to Turkey. After a short stay in Istanbul, Adel heads for Vancouver where Kamil lives with his new wife Ayca. There, at the cultural crossroads of the West and the Middle East, Adel, his cousin Yonka, Kamil, Nora, Ayca, and other characters intersect.
Adel's presence (and perhaps Kamil's as well) in Vancouver was arranged by Adel's grand uncle, whose aim is to marry Adel to his beloved granddaughter Yonka, a cunning and egocentric woman who lives a life of decadence. Adel plunges into the whirlwind of Yonka's schemes (into the untenable and unconsummated marriage) and of falling in love with Nora again. Eastern and Muslim culture collides with Western ways and ideas and brings the characters together at times and pulls them apart at others.
To many Western readers, the culture of the Middle East, which still exercises arranged marriages along with dowries and marriages among cousins, could be strange. But we also find Jane Austin's world strange, which is not that long ago, as well as some of today's American societies in which polygamy and other taboos are tolerated; this book teaches us that we should understand the cultural differences in the world to live together more harmoniously.
The book is scene-oriented with relatively short chapters, and thus a page-turner -- I thoroughly enjoyed it. Adel's father is weak in front of his domineering uncle, but toward the end, he stands up against him and he and his poor family finally get what they deserve. The novel has an unexpected and highly satisfying ending, with dramatic irony in a literary sense. After reading the book I also watched snippets of the eponymous movie on the Internet, written and directed by Anne-Rae Vasquez; the book and the movie went together very well and the movie augmented my sense of the characters. And I am looking forward to reading and seeing more of the work by this talented writer-artist in the near future.
Action begins when the 25-year-old Adel -- handsome, business savvy, and sometimes quixotic -- leaves his home in Istanbul and arrives at Los Angeles with his best friend Kamil. He meets Nora, who visits LA from Vancouver, Canada, and then falls for her, but the meeting is cut short because Adel is manipulated by his grand uncle, a domineering, contemptible figure to Adel's family. Mirwan, a pawn of Adel's grand uncle, reports Adel to the U.S. immigration services. Adel is detained and subsequently deported back to Turkey. After a short stay in Istanbul, Adel heads for Vancouver where Kamil lives with his new wife Ayca. There, at the cultural crossroads of the West and the Middle East, Adel, his cousin Yonka, Kamil, Nora, Ayca, and other characters intersect.
Adel's presence (and perhaps Kamil's as well) in Vancouver was arranged by Adel's grand uncle, whose aim is to marry Adel to his beloved granddaughter Yonka, a cunning and egocentric woman who lives a life of decadence. Adel plunges into the whirlwind of Yonka's schemes (into the untenable and unconsummated marriage) and of falling in love with Nora again. Eastern and Muslim culture collides with Western ways and ideas and brings the characters together at times and pulls them apart at others.
To many Western readers, the culture of the Middle East, which still exercises arranged marriages along with dowries and marriages among cousins, could be strange. But we also find Jane Austin's world strange, which is not that long ago, as well as some of today's American societies in which polygamy and other taboos are tolerated; this book teaches us that we should understand the cultural differences in the world to live together more harmoniously.
The book is scene-oriented with relatively short chapters, and thus a page-turner -- I thoroughly enjoyed it. Adel's father is weak in front of his domineering uncle, but toward the end, he stands up against him and he and his poor family finally get what they deserve. The novel has an unexpected and highly satisfying ending, with dramatic irony in a literary sense. After reading the book I also watched snippets of the eponymous movie on the Internet, written and directed by Anne-Rae Vasquez; the book and the movie went together very well and the movie augmented my sense of the characters. And I am looking forward to reading and seeing more of the work by this talented writer-artist in the near future.
October 13, 2012
The story of Adel and Kamil's journey from Istanbul to Los Angeles is a story I've witnessed myself when in my early 20s I had the same dreams of leaving my country looking for a better life and opportunity in North America. Anne-Rae Vasquez describes the events in Adel's life so vividly, it feels like I am watching the story unfold right before my eyes. I enjoy the subtle humour and cajoling between both friends Adel and Kamil as they try to find success in Los Angeles. Of course like in any Turkish soap opera, nothing goes as they plan. Adel finds himself deported back to Istanbul; while Kamil is arranged to marry his cousin in Vancouver Canada. Adel follows Kamil to Canada and the drama heats up when his evil Grand Uncle arranges him to marry his spoiled rotten cousin Yonka so that he can get his papers to stay in Canada. If that isn't enough, Adel with his good looks and charm, woos his pretty English teacher Nora which causes further chaos with his wife, friends and family. Anne-Rae is able to bring realism and control the dramatic events while injecting enjoyable humour within the chapters. The story is kept a quick pace, short chapters with a dash of authentic dialog (Adel and Kamil speak English as an ESL student would) make it a very interesting read. Of course, the web series and clips of the feature film are a bonus which are available on Anne-Rae's goodreads video page. Click here to watch videos.
I give the book 5 stars.
I give the book 5 stars.
November 9, 2012
It's a very awesome book. The book is about Adel and Kamil, two young good looking Turkish men trying to immigrate to North America. Adel's evil grand uncle arranges him to marry Yonka (his spoiled obnoxious cousin) in exchange for his immigration status in Canada. Yonka and Adel hate each other. The drama heats up eve more when Adel has an affair with Nora, his beautiful English teacher. How did his life turn into a Turkish soap opera? In this book written a real heart touching story. everyone need to read this book and it's my opinion that this book is a nobel of life. I recommend it to everyone. Here is another book link http://liberationbooks.com/vipmembers... liberationbooks here you can find very interesting books.
November 27, 2012
This is a super entertaining read, even for someone like me who knows nothing about Turkey or its soap operas. The chapters fly by pretty quickly. Sometimes scenes are written in a screenplay-ish style, which summarizes the action in quick succession. For some books this may not be the best style, but I didn't find that this detracted from the pace of the story. I particularly loved how, in the style of a true soap opera, characters appear, disappear, and then pop back up when least expected, especially Kamil, the not-as-outspoken friend who at first seems like a background character. I definitely recommend reading this in conjunction with the mini-series on YouTube, where you can get a sense of the guys as they go on their adventures, juxtaposed with their families back home.
October 27, 2012
A beautiful and intriguing story of two young men Adel and Kamil, who leave Turkey for a new life.
The twists and turns of the plot from Los Angeles back to Turkey and on to Canada move with a fast pace
in the tradition of the best soap operas. The style of writing flows easily in the present, with extraordinary
characters and wonderful dialogues. I found this book very entertaining, sometimes sad and poignant sometimes extremely funny.
The writer has perfectly captured the nuances and shades of those from different cultures creating a picture rich in
textures, sights and sounds. This novel is both clever and deeply emotional with complex situations that will make you wonder
about friendship, love, betrayal and redemption. A great book.
The twists and turns of the plot from Los Angeles back to Turkey and on to Canada move with a fast pace
in the tradition of the best soap operas. The style of writing flows easily in the present, with extraordinary
characters and wonderful dialogues. I found this book very entertaining, sometimes sad and poignant sometimes extremely funny.
The writer has perfectly captured the nuances and shades of those from different cultures creating a picture rich in
textures, sights and sounds. This novel is both clever and deeply emotional with complex situations that will make you wonder
about friendship, love, betrayal and redemption. A great book.
October 25, 2012
a Satisfying Quick Read!
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a timeless story filled with drama, duty, betrayal, love and friendship. Simple in narrative yet contemporary, which makes it so appealing. I found myself turning page after page to see what would happen next. The book recounts the immigrant experiences of Adel and his struggle to make a life for himself while pursuing the immigrant dream. The author includes many cultural details and highlights the relationships between family generations. Nicely finished, leaving the reader satisfied. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the DVD movie. In the meantime I will just have to enjoy the video clips on youTube.
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a timeless story filled with drama, duty, betrayal, love and friendship. Simple in narrative yet contemporary, which makes it so appealing. I found myself turning page after page to see what would happen next. The book recounts the immigrant experiences of Adel and his struggle to make a life for himself while pursuing the immigrant dream. The author includes many cultural details and highlights the relationships between family generations. Nicely finished, leaving the reader satisfied. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the DVD movie. In the meantime I will just have to enjoy the video clips on youTube.
January 16, 2013
I enjoyed this new novel by Anne-Rae Vasquez another one of her great work. I am a fan of the web series of the Almost a Turkish Soap Opera and now I am a fan of this book too. Great job Anne-Rae I am looking forward to all your upcoming work!
November 6, 2012
Anne-Rae Vasquez’s Almost A Turkish Soap Opera is about two friends, Kamil and Adel, who immigrate to the US from Turkey in order to make money and live their lives to the fullest. They move to LA and get an apartment together and begin working as taxi shuttle drivers for family. Adel, a ladies’ man who seems to have an easier time getting used to the US than Kamil does. Adel is more outgoing, getting him better tips and allowing him to buy his own taxi van in order to start his own business, until his jealous cousin reports him to the Immigration Service and has him deported back to Turkey. Soon after he goes back to Turkey, he leaves for Canada, where Kamil has been arranged to marry a Turkish woman. After a short stay at Kamil’s apartment, Adel soon realizes that this is not the life that he wants to live. After his own arranged marriage to Yonka, his cousin, falls apart, he realizes that he wants to start a life with Nora, his instructor at the university and a woman he fell in love with in LA. Yonka complicates things and he is soon married to another woman and Nora ends up with Kamil after his marriage is also annulled.
This is an easy read with a lot of adventures that Adel and Kamil experience together and Adel experiences alone, including his deportation from the US back to Turkey. He has to balance his love for his family and his love for a life that truly fulfills him and makes him happy. While it takes a while to get there, both men soon find all of the love and happiness that they have been seeking, both from their wives and from their families back in Turkey.
This is a very entertaining book and I laughed at least one in each chapter at the adventures that Adel and Kamil experience. While Adel thinks he has bad luck, Kamil thinks he finds himself in these situations due to his irresponsible and womanizing ways. Kamil is the tamer of the two and his is more interested in honoring his family and living a good life in the eyes of others. When Adel is arranged to marry Yonka, he knows his is in for the ride of his life, but he does not know how bumpy the ride will be until it affects his relationship with Nora. Nora was meant to be with Kamil, and the complications between Yonka and Adel help both of them realize that they were not meant to be together. This book was very much like a soap opera, but was also like a romantic comedy in many ways. I enjoyed reading the book and turning the pages to see what was going to unfold in the next chapter. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys soap operas or romantic comedies, and those who just enjoy an easy ready that is entertaining and will keep you guessing.
This is an easy read with a lot of adventures that Adel and Kamil experience together and Adel experiences alone, including his deportation from the US back to Turkey. He has to balance his love for his family and his love for a life that truly fulfills him and makes him happy. While it takes a while to get there, both men soon find all of the love and happiness that they have been seeking, both from their wives and from their families back in Turkey.
This is a very entertaining book and I laughed at least one in each chapter at the adventures that Adel and Kamil experience. While Adel thinks he has bad luck, Kamil thinks he finds himself in these situations due to his irresponsible and womanizing ways. Kamil is the tamer of the two and his is more interested in honoring his family and living a good life in the eyes of others. When Adel is arranged to marry Yonka, he knows his is in for the ride of his life, but he does not know how bumpy the ride will be until it affects his relationship with Nora. Nora was meant to be with Kamil, and the complications between Yonka and Adel help both of them realize that they were not meant to be together. This book was very much like a soap opera, but was also like a romantic comedy in many ways. I enjoyed reading the book and turning the pages to see what was going to unfold in the next chapter. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys soap operas or romantic comedies, and those who just enjoy an easy ready that is entertaining and will keep you guessing.
November 7, 2012
Almost a Turkish Soap Opera is a delightfully well written tale containing excellent plot twists and turns in true ‘soap opera’ fashion, creating the suspense that encapsulates you as a reader and keeps you gripped until the very end. It is written in a very simplistic narrative style that allows the story to flow easily and makes this a book that is extremely difficult to put down. The superb character development throughout the book, in conjunction with the dramatic plot, allows the reader to really become emotionally involved with the main characters (especially Adel).
What I was particularly intrigued by, as a man born in Turkey myself, was the cultural accuracy that the Anne-Rae has managed to include within the book. I feel that the book encapsulates Turkish culture, creates characters that are genuinely believable and through the different settings of the book highlights the important cultural differences between life in Turkey and in the USA/Canada, providing valuable insight for anyone interested in learning more about Middle Eastern culture, albeit if this information is provided as part of a dramatised ‘soap opera’ style plot.
The book follows the journey of main character Adel and his best friend Kamil from Istanbul, Turkey to Hollywood, USA in search of “the land of opportunity and beautiful ladies!”. However, reality soon hits home after arrival, that although this may be a new world, full of different opportunities, the truth is they are in a foreign land with hardly the money to pay for the cheapest of Motels and with no income to speak of! What follows are several twists and turns that lead to the pair working illegally in the country for Kamil’s cousin Mirwan, Adel falling for Nora Lee (a Canadian visitor he meets whilst working) and a subsequent whirlwind romance. This romance is cut short due to Adel’s deportation back to Turkey, instigated by his controlling and manipulating Grand Uncle. Through his Grand Uncle’s design Adel eventually heads of to Canada, where he plans for him to marry Yonka – his beloved granddaughter. Adel obliges and it is at this point where the drama of the book really unfolds.
Excellent, fast paced and with a really apt and satisfying ending, Almost a Turkish Soap Opera really is a five star read and is one that I am extremely happy to endorse and recommend to anyone!
What I was particularly intrigued by, as a man born in Turkey myself, was the cultural accuracy that the Anne-Rae has managed to include within the book. I feel that the book encapsulates Turkish culture, creates characters that are genuinely believable and through the different settings of the book highlights the important cultural differences between life in Turkey and in the USA/Canada, providing valuable insight for anyone interested in learning more about Middle Eastern culture, albeit if this information is provided as part of a dramatised ‘soap opera’ style plot.
The book follows the journey of main character Adel and his best friend Kamil from Istanbul, Turkey to Hollywood, USA in search of “the land of opportunity and beautiful ladies!”. However, reality soon hits home after arrival, that although this may be a new world, full of different opportunities, the truth is they are in a foreign land with hardly the money to pay for the cheapest of Motels and with no income to speak of! What follows are several twists and turns that lead to the pair working illegally in the country for Kamil’s cousin Mirwan, Adel falling for Nora Lee (a Canadian visitor he meets whilst working) and a subsequent whirlwind romance. This romance is cut short due to Adel’s deportation back to Turkey, instigated by his controlling and manipulating Grand Uncle. Through his Grand Uncle’s design Adel eventually heads of to Canada, where he plans for him to marry Yonka – his beloved granddaughter. Adel obliges and it is at this point where the drama of the book really unfolds.
Excellent, fast paced and with a really apt and satisfying ending, Almost a Turkish Soap Opera really is a five star read and is one that I am extremely happy to endorse and recommend to anyone!
May 10, 2014
Everything a Soap Opera should be.
Anne Rae has written a very compelling soap opera. I say that because every scene is delicately detailed. We know all the players, where they are and what they are thinking. At times, the work does more showing than telling, thus the reference to it being a Soap Opera.
The story revolves around the live of two lifelong friends, Kamil and Adel. Adel has had enough of the “planned” life in Turkey. He is ready to spread his wings and fly. His family and friend Kamil aren’t too sure about this career move. It doesn’t matter. He’s breaking tradition. He saved up enough money and will be winging his way to the land of opportunity—America. Kamil can’t let his friend go alone, so he reluctantly agrees to the grand adventure.
For the first months everything is on track. Kamil has them both employed with his cousin who runs a shuttle service out of LAX. Adel is the true entrepreneur, while his best friend can’t stand the gig. But fate and family ties turn Adel’s successful venture into a full blown debacle. He finds himself embroiled in family politics, jealousy, arranged marriage, deportation, imprisonment, betrayal, thugs, romance and a final reckoning. How’s that for a plot? I found it well weaved and written.
The only drawback was the over abundance of name tags, but when one works as a filmmaker by day, it makes sense.
Unlike a normal soap, this one has a unique, definitive end. And no, I didn’t see it coming!
Well done Anne. A solid 4.5 stars.
Anne Rae has written a very compelling soap opera. I say that because every scene is delicately detailed. We know all the players, where they are and what they are thinking. At times, the work does more showing than telling, thus the reference to it being a Soap Opera.
The story revolves around the live of two lifelong friends, Kamil and Adel. Adel has had enough of the “planned” life in Turkey. He is ready to spread his wings and fly. His family and friend Kamil aren’t too sure about this career move. It doesn’t matter. He’s breaking tradition. He saved up enough money and will be winging his way to the land of opportunity—America. Kamil can’t let his friend go alone, so he reluctantly agrees to the grand adventure.
For the first months everything is on track. Kamil has them both employed with his cousin who runs a shuttle service out of LAX. Adel is the true entrepreneur, while his best friend can’t stand the gig. But fate and family ties turn Adel’s successful venture into a full blown debacle. He finds himself embroiled in family politics, jealousy, arranged marriage, deportation, imprisonment, betrayal, thugs, romance and a final reckoning. How’s that for a plot? I found it well weaved and written.
The only drawback was the over abundance of name tags, but when one works as a filmmaker by day, it makes sense.
Unlike a normal soap, this one has a unique, definitive end. And no, I didn’t see it coming!
Well done Anne. A solid 4.5 stars.
October 27, 2013
Well, this does live up to its name--it is indeed very much like a Turkish Soap Opera. This has everything in it- rich and poor, weddings and misunderstandings, love and hate, food and more food, inter-generational issues, mafia style beatings and manipulations, twists and turns,the most amazing coincidences. In short,a bit of everything.
The characters are not very deep, and the main protagonist is rather obnoxious, which is why "the surprise ending" didn't really leave me surprised. But I guess the book is more about the action than the people, after all, it's a soap opera.
Fun for lovers of the genre.
The characters are not very deep, and the main protagonist is rather obnoxious, which is why "the surprise ending" didn't really leave me surprised. But I guess the book is more about the action than the people, after all, it's a soap opera.
Fun for lovers of the genre.
November 21, 2012
Having watched many Portuguese and Spanish soap operas before I was very intrigued to read this book. There is a strong sense of culture, religion and tradition that is a vital backdrop to the story. Adel is an extraordinary character who wants to fulfill his dreams and is thwarted time and time again. The reader feels his disappointment and hopes he reaches them in the end. A numerous amount of surprises particularly at the end and with a bit of wit made this a very enjoyable read. I bet if you are not a fan of soap operas you will be after reading this.
October 14, 2012
The book is about Adel and Kamil, two young good looking Turkish men trying to immigrate to North America. Adel's evil grand uncle arranges him to marry Yonka (his spoiled obnoxious cousin) in exchange for his immigration status in Canada. Yonka and Adel hate each other. The drama heats up eve more when Adel has an affair with Nora, his beautiful English teacher. How did his life turn into a Turkish soap opera?
Very interusting story i like it.
Very interusting story i like it.
October 14, 2012
I downloaded this book and read some pages its really a very useful book in my views i will say its precious book. The book is about Adel and Kamil, two young good looking Turkish men trying to immigrate to North America. Adel's evil grand uncle arranges him to marry Yonka (his spoiled obnoxious cousin) in exchange for his immigration status in Canada.
October 14, 2012
A good genuine yet fine story with beautiful, enjoyment fine screenplay. I cherished each and every element in this play ! Top of the line ,critical acting ,important appearances ,entrancing subject . A wonderful play, brilliantly acted. I enjoyed every moment. thank you for a wonderful experience !!
February 19, 2013
A (mostly) light heart romp through the trials and tribulations of two young Turkish men who decide to make their way in the US and end up in Canada. Their search for success and love is peppered with obstacles and misadventures.
I liked the glimpses of Turkish culture that the story reveals without hitting the reader over the head. All in all a fun read.
I liked the glimpses of Turkish culture that the story reveals without hitting the reader over the head. All in all a fun read.
June 17, 2015
You won't put this book down
A tale of two best friends, as told by one of them from Istanbul to Los Angeles to Canada and back home.
Just like a soap opera, the drama keeps building up and when it seems as though a character is trapped they take their own steps that either makes it worse or slightly better.
A tale of two best friends, as told by one of them from Istanbul to Los Angeles to Canada and back home.
Just like a soap opera, the drama keeps building up and when it seems as though a character is trapped they take their own steps that either makes it worse or slightly better.
January 19, 2013
This absolutely beautiful, and incredibly eloquently written story i is about friendship,love, and profound emotions, amongst other themes;It has it all, so there's something for everyone. Read it ASAP
October 14, 2012
This book really shows what life is like and how one must deal with it's challenges. I highly recommend this book because of it's amazing story which can move you in many ways. The book focuses on immigrating to America and the struggles that follow. This is a five star and a must read!
October 14, 2012
Good story,Two people ,Adel and Kamil in this story show there courage , But this story tell us a good advice.
October 14, 2012
This is an exciting and amazing book.I like this book so much.
October 14, 2012
wow this is a very good book I read this book and I love it.I will recomande to my friends to read this book.
October 14, 2012
It is need not to say that book is one of the most important recreational things in all over the world
October 14, 2012
This book is really good and very exciting story.I like the story most and its one of my favourite story book.
October 14, 2012
It is a very nice book. There a lot of people like this book. This book is the best book in all over the world.
October 14, 2012
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October 14, 2012
Very interesting and dynamic until the end. I read it in one breath. This drama is piece of modern soap opera. My true recommendations fo all people, it is must read! 5 stars from me!
October 14, 2012
I love reading that book. It was very interesting when Adel has an affair with Nora. I really like it.
October 14, 2012
Actually the book is really so much informative enough.I enjoyed reading the book so much and i also want to read such sort of book even in future.
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