I’m at a loss how to review this because I listened to the audio format and loved the performance by Janet Metzger, but beyond that the story failed to grab me as I hoped. The inter-connected stories were jumbled and left me confused.

*many thanks to Brilliance Audio and Netgalley for the gifted copy for review

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this audiobook.

Janet Metzger's narration is well done and Gzar paints a fascinating picture of early 20th century Basra, Iraq. This novel reflects on a deeply moving narrative centered on a woman’s harrowing experiences, her search for her father and her father's search for her.

The beautifully crafted prose fosters a strong connection with the characters, tackling difficult themes with sensitivity. The author’s skillful storytelling leaves a lasting impact, prompting deep reflection, even though the conclusion feels uncertain. The work stands out for its emotional resonance and narrative strength.

I would like to extend my gratitude to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with this eARC in audiobook form.

Mortada Gzar’s “The River Knows My Name” is a beautifully crafted and evocative novel that transports listeners to early twentieth-century Basra, Iraq.

The book vividly depicts the early twentieth-century setting of Basra, enriched by its profound cultural history and depth, which adds layers of fascination to the narrative.

Janet Metzger’s narration stands out in this audiobook. Her performance is captivating and moving, effectively pulling listeners into the story's universe.

Gzar’s writing is both poetic and precise, skillfully portraying the stunning complexities of the Iraqi landscape as well as the inner experiences of his characters. The pacing of the narrative is well-executed, with each chapter unveiling new dimensions of the story, enhancing the listener’s relationship with Charlotte’s journey.

With the talented Janet Metzger at the helm, the audiobook delivers a rich and immersive experience that truly embodies a young girl’s quest for self-discovery. While I found this audiobook to be thought-provoking, I was left somewhat bewildered at the conclusion regarding the father’s fate (whether he was alive or dead and what ultimately occurred with him).

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

Mortada Gzar’s “The River Knows My Name” is a lyrical and evocative novel that takes listeners on a journey through early twentieth-century Basra, Iraq.

The setting of early twentieth-century Basra was vividly brought to life, with its rich cultural tapestry and historical depth adding layers of intrigue to the story.

Janet Metzger’s narration is a highlight of this audiobook.  Metzger’s performance is engaging and evocative, drawing listeners into the world of the novel.

Gzar’s writing is poetic and precise, capturing the beauty and complexity of the Iraqi landscape and the inner lives of his characters. The narrative is well-paced, with each chapter revealing new layers of the story and deepening the listener’s connection to Charlotte’s journey.

Narrated by the talented Janet Metzger, the audiobook version offers a rich and immersive experience that captures the essence of a young girl’s quest for self-discovery. I found this audiobook to be thought-provoking, however I was left confused at the end regarding the father (whether he was dead or alive and what happened to him).

DNF. Many reasons. The plot meandered too much, touching on this story or that, and I didn't really care enough to keep going. I couldn't stop thinking about how stupid it is to enter a Middle Eastern region and try to westernize and Christianize these people who have no real need for it other than better medicine. I'm mystified about missionaries, which is why I grabbed this, but as is often the case, it's a selfish, ignorant, and insulting task they set for themselves. I'm sure many people will love this, but it was most definitely not for me.

There’s a powerful exploration of a woman's harrowing experiences, enriched by the perspective of a gay woman, which adds a profound layer to the narrative. The weight of the themes was significant, filled with moments of despair and resilience that made it a challenging listen.

A pivotal moment struck me when the protagonist escapes her troubling situation but ultimately chooses to return, only to find her father has gone in search of her. This twist was especially impactful; the tension felt incredibly high, making me invested in the outcome.

The writing captivated me throughout. The prose is beautifully crafted, allowing for a deep connection with the characters and their emotional journeys, even amid the difficult subjects presented. The author's ability to handle such challenging themes with sensitivity and skill is commendable.

By the end, I was left in a contemplative state, reflecting on the narrative. Although I felt uncertain about the conclusion, the journey left a deep impression on me. This piece showcases the strength of its storytelling and emotional resonance.

I'm at a bit of a loss with this book. I listened to the audio version which was very well read by Janet Metzger. However the actual story is more like lots of short stories held together by another story.

The connecting story is about a girl who runs away one day and when she is returned she finds that her father has gone missing while looking for her.

There follows a set of short stories which occur while the girl and others are trying to find out what has happened to her father.

What confused me is that she continually changes the story so by the end I wasn't sure what, if anything, had happened or whether her father was dead or alive.

The in-between stories are also strange and confusing without seeming to have much connection with the girl or her father.

There are several serious issues covered including mental health, physical abuse amongst others. They are all quite disturbing.

Not for me but the narrator was good.

Thankyou to Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for the audio advance review copy.

I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging and thought-provoking book. Highly recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in excahnge for an honest review.

Wow. Are you in the mood for an engaging and thoughtful listen? Try out The River Knows My Name. You will not regret it.