The Sunrise

The Sunrise by Victoria Hislop, published by Headline Review in 2014, is a historical fiction novel that explores the vibrant yet tumultuous backdrop of Famagusta, Cyprus, during the summer of 1972. The story centers on an ambitious couple poised to open a spectacular hotel in a city that symbolizes prosperity and harmony between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. However, as political tensions rise, the narrative delves into the lives of two neighboring families, the Georgious and the Özkans, who have sought refuge in Famagusta from the unrest that has plagued the island.

Readers will find a poignant depiction of the impact of conflict on personal lives as the idyllic setting transforms into a scene of chaos following a Greek coup and the subsequent Turkish invasion. The novel captures the desperation of the residents as they flee, leaving behind their homes and memories. With a page count of 339, this edition presents a detailed account of the events that lead to the city’s abandonment, focusing on the resilience and struggles of those who remain amidst the turmoil.