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Thursday, June 21, 2007

Game, set, love

SaudimatchpointI've finished Saudi Match Point by Paul Ulrich and I thought it was absolutely brilliant. It’s set in Saudi Arabia, and there are two main storylines. The first is about a US plot to take control of Saudi oilfields, the second about a young woman who has a fling with a foreigner then has to flee the country. Ulrich effortlessly mixes politics and drama, and adds touches of humour, such as a running joke about the protagonist’s name, Nick, which apparently sounds like the f-word in Arabic. It’s satisfying on every level. Ulrich writes great prose and creates intriguing characters, and the plot keeps you turning the pages. Great entertainment and a fascinating glimpse into Saudia Arabian life.

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