The Bridges of Constantine

In The Bridges of Constantine, a former revolutionary in self-exile finds love and nostalgia when he reconnects with the daughter of a revolutionary commander.

Khaled is a former revolutionary who fought in the Algerian war of liberation. After two decades in self-exile in Paris, he is disillusioned by the corruption that has taken hold of his homeland. Now a celebrated painter, Khaled's life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Hayat, the daughter of his old revolutionary commander. Once a child in his memories, Hayat has blossomed into a captivating young novelist, reigniting feelings Khaled thought he had buried.

The Bridges of Constantine is the first novel in an award-winning trilogy that captures Algeria's tumultuous recent history through a deeply personal lens. As Khaled navigates his complicated emotions for Hayat, the narrative intertwines themes of love, loss, and the longing for a homeland that has changed irrevocably. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Paris, a city that symbolizes both refuge and nostalgia for Khaled.

This lyrical and heartrending love story explores the complexities of relationships shaped by political upheaval. Khaled's passion for Hayat serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the revolution and the enduring power of love. As they reconnect, both characters must confront their pasts and the legacy of their families in a narrative that resonates with the struggles of a nation seeking its identity.