Description

Two Romanians flee their home country during the Cold War. They reach the desert in Algeria. There, they help the French army plan nuclear tests underground. They see a blast break open a tunnel. Gas that is radioactive then rises to the surface.

Alexandru Lamba’s Azilul meu is a thriller with speculative themes. It links the risks of nuclear tests to stranger threats. Civilian contractors share rumors about tests to make wormholes. These could form paths through space and time. Such ideas lure bold people toward risks they cannot foresee. The harsh climate of the Sahara adds to these risks.

The Europeans also struggle to form ties with Arab Bedouins. These groups have lived in the desert for centuries. Deep rifts divide French troops, Romanian exiles and local people. Yet love can exist amid war, hate and reckless tests. The novel looks at the human needs these groups share. Each seeks a place to belong and a purpose. Some find what they seek.

This edition is part of the EGO. PROZĂ series.