Suleima's Ring

Shortlisted for the International Prize for Arabic Fiction.

Suleima’s Ring isn’t just a novel; it’s an exploration of life’s intricate dance between love and contradiction, roots and aspirations, rebellion and compliance.

Unfolding across Aleppo and Toledo, it tells the interwoven stories of half Spanish, half Jewish photographer Lucas and Syrian protagonist Salma.

Switching between multiple narrators, it explores the relationships between Salma and Shams al-Din—an Italian musician living in Aleppo with whom she is infatuated—along with Lucas, Lucas’ girlfriend Lola, and his son.

Bali skillfully navigates the complexities of relationships, traditions, and the ever-elusive concept of truth. The novel, born in the historic city of Toledo, Spain, carries the fragrance of Aleppo, inviting readers to wander through its ancient alleys and rest on the banks of the Tagus River.

The titular ring, at times held by various characters, alludes to the legendary ring of Solomon with its fabled magical powers. Although Salma, Lucas, and Shams al-Din are distinct personalities from contrasting backgrounds, they all share one thing: their love for Aleppo, the enthralling and afflicted city buried under the rubble of dreams and lost opportunities.

Suleima’s Ring navigates Salma’s struggle between love and duty, past affluence, and a present marked by loss and conflict. The novel poses questions about Salma’s heart’s compass and her ultimate decision. Will she succumb to the sands of the past, or will she embrace the West’s taut bowstring? Will Suleima’s magic ring be enough to free the lost souls of Aleppo? Or will it take another Solomon to come to life and reassert his authority over the warring creatures who are left, if he can only find his lost ring?

Suleima’s Ring draws the reader into an atmosphere permeated by Sufism, perfume, dreams, and passionate love, against the backdrop of the Syrian war.