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Changing Borders by J.A.Sabral Lulu
book review by Millie Hinkle
"Holding the NewsOne microphone in her right hand, Kate looked directly into the shiny wide-angle lens and delivered her lines. 'Protestors here tell us they don't want NATO member Turkey to host a planned missile shield. They believe installing such military hardware will send the wrong signal to their neighbors and provoke yet another regional war.'"
Changing Borders is about uncovering the political forces during changing times in the mid-East. Kate Roberts is the savvy news reporter who covers Turkey for an Iranian news service. She thrives in this environment of unrest and breaking news. Although she must wear a hijab on camera, she is a worldly westerner of British American citizenship who loves stylish short black dresses and high heels. She is a hard drinker, and likes to flirt and have fun.
Roberts has no trouble keeping friendly with the many factions of Istanbul until she is sent an anonymous email that shows a map of "The New Middle East Project." The map covers Turkey and the greater Middle East, redefining the traditional boundaries. A story this big could earn her a Pulitzer Prize.
Before Kate can act on this information, her laptop is stolen. She comes to rely on a new man in her life: Sami, a well-established lawyer, who is involved in the political arena. The chemistry between them is more than either of them had expected. They joyously allow themselves to explore this new terrain, not quite knowing where it will lead. But each is ready to walk away if the need arises. Sami's free style of life is challenged by this smart, loving woman. He also must consider his neutral stance on what is happening in his homeland of Turkey.
What is the real value of exerting western influence in the fast-changing, difficult to predict Middle East? This is a smart, sexy, international intrigue that raises questions and sheds light on many issues of this part of the world.