66 pages • 2 hours read
Gina WilkinsonWhen the Apricots Bloom
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
When the Apricots Bloom by Gina Wilkinson is a historical fiction novel set in early 2000s Baghdad, following the intertwined lives of three women: Huda, a secretary at the Australian embassy; Ally, the wife of the Australian deputy ambassador investigating her mother’s past; and Rania, an estranged childhood friend of Huda's who runs an art gallery. The novel explores their struggles with secrets, betrayals, and the oppressive regime of Saddam Hussein, as they try to protect their children and themselves from the dangers posed by the secret police. This book contains multiple instances and discussions of violence, sexual assault, discrimination, and harassment.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
When the Apricots Bloom by Gina Wilkinson received praise for its gripping narrative and vivid portrayal of friendship and survival in Saddam Hussein's Iraq. Reviewers appreciated the well-drawn characters and historical insights. Some critiques noted occasional pacing issues and predictable plot points. Overall, it is a compelling, emotionally resonant read.
Who Should Read When the Apricots Bloom?
Readers who relish The Kite Runner and Reading Lolita in Tehran will be captivated by When the Apricots Bloom by Gina Wilkinson. This novel is perfect for those drawn to intricate female friendships, political intrigue, and evocative Middle Eastern settings. Fans of historical fiction with emotional depth will particularly appreciate this book.