Rift: A Symphony of Ancient Secrets and Teenage Angst

“Rift”, by Turkish author Gülse Birsel, is a novel that dances delicately between the realms of historical fantasy and adolescent turmoil. It’s a captivating tapestry woven with threads of ancient myths, burgeoning romance, and the inevitable pangs of growing up. Imagine Indiana Jones stumbling upon the diary of a lovelorn teenager – that’s the essence of “Rift”.

The story follows eighteen-year-old Deniz, a spirited young woman grappling with the weight of her family legacy. Her ancestors were guardians of an ancient artifact, the “Eye of Selene,” believed to hold the key to unlocking a hidden portal to another dimension. But Deniz is more interested in pursuing her dreams of becoming a photographer than delving into dusty relics and forgotten lore.

Her world takes a dramatic turn when she discovers a cryptic map hidden within her grandmother’s belongings. The map leads to a series of enigmatic clues, each pointing towards the Eye of Selene and its potential power. As Deniz embarks on this perilous quest, she encounters a cast of compelling characters: a charming but secretive historian named Kemal, who becomes both her guide and confidant; a mischievous djinn trapped within the artifact, dispensing cryptic riddles and ancient wisdom; and a shadowy organization determined to exploit the Eye’s power for their own nefarious purposes.

Birsel masterfully weaves together historical elements with fantastical tropes, drawing inspiration from Turkish folklore and mythology. The “Eye of Selene,” for instance, is inspired by legends surrounding Selene, the Greek goddess of the moon, while the djinn embodies the rich tradition of supernatural beings in Middle Eastern storytelling.

Here’s a deeper dive into the key elements that make “Rift” a captivating read:

A Visual Feast:

Beyond its captivating narrative, “Rift” is a feast for the eyes. Birsel’s vivid descriptions transport readers to the bustling streets of Istanbul, the ancient ruins scattered across Anatolia, and the fantastical realms beyond the portal. Imagine walking through the Grand Bazaar, its vibrant stalls overflowing with spices, carpets, and shimmering trinkets, or exploring the haunting beauty of Ephesus, where marble columns whisper tales of empires long gone.

Birsel’s prose is lyrical and evocative, painting a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. She masterfully captures the essence of Turkish culture, from the warmth and hospitality of its people to the intricate patterns and motifs that adorn its architecture and art.

“Rift” is not just a novel; it’s an experience. It’s a journey through time, space, and self-discovery, leaving readers breathless and yearning for more.

So, if you’re looking for a Young Adult novel that will ignite your imagination, challenge your perceptions, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Turkish culture, then “Rift” is a must-read.