This book was commended to me a Bosnian Writer some years ago as Bosnia's finest written work, encapsulating in style and the characters in the book, the essence of Bosnia Culture.
The style of writing is so extraordinarily condensed, with such an exceptionally intense focus on analysis of a psychological nature,that it is easily one of the most difficult novels one can hope to read. Yet as you read, you cannot help but be struck by the sheer brilliance of a mind that can create such intense and demanding dialogue with its reader. Using the plot of a witnessed murder and the immense problems with conscience the witness thereafter experiences as a result of what he has seen, set in the backdrop of Ottoman Bosnia, a malevolent Byzantine like world of intrigue is revealed.
It is a truly astounding piece of work, doubtlessly as the Bosnian reviewer pointed out, needing patience and several readings, operating as it does on several levels.
If you want to get a strong feel for the Bosnian Culture, this book beyond any other will take you to the heart of this complex and talented people.