The subject matter in this book is very heavy. It takes place in both the present and the past and follows the generation of the main characters. I really enjoyed the perspectives that came from the fig tree. It threw me off a bit, but the narration for her was lovely and really gave a connection to how humans can affect nature.

Defne and Kostas are in a hidden relationship due to being on opposing sides of the Cyprus conflict. I really appreciated that Shafak wrote about this topic (even if it was a background force that affected the characters and sent them on their paths). I wanted to learn a little more about the actual conflict and found out that it's an ongoing conflict that has not been resolved to this day, so I definitely appreciate that it was brought to light for the readers.

There is a lot of death, both in nature and humans, and a character succumbs to suicide after a long fight with depression. It's not a favorite for me, and that was because the ending twist was a little odd for me and I just didn't care for it. I can see why some would like it, but I am not one of them haha. I'm glad that I read it, though, and if you're up for a book that has very little humor through a heavy subject, then I would recommend this one.