nicole_bookmarked's reviews
1022 reviews

In "On the Isle of Antioch," Amin Maalouf presents a dystopian world grappling with a total social collapse and the enigmatic arrival of the Empedocles, figures from ancient Greek mythology who possess the ability to cure all illnesses. The story centers on Alec, an illustrator, and Eve, a writer, the only residents of the Isle of Antioch, an isolated archipelago near France. Their experiences offer a microcosmic view of the broader, chaotic world events and the profound impact of the Empedocles on human knowledge, identity, and dignity.

As a reader, I found the novel's premise intriguing and its philosophical depth compelling. However, the narrative left me with unanswered questions about the origins and motivations of the Empedocles, which somewhat diminished my satisfaction. Despite this, the novel's unique blend of mystery and speculative elements makes it an engaging read. I give it three stars, appreciating its thought-provoking content but desiring a deeper exploration of its fascinating world.

Thank you to #NetGalley and World Editions for an e-ARC of this novel in exchange for this honest review! :)