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Sand Roses
Tourists know it as the City of Joy. For Ouled Nail dancers, Bousaada is a city of horrors.
It is 1931 when two sisters arrive in Bousaada bursting with dreams of becoming successful dancers. But the city, occupied by the ruthless French colonial army, changes their lives forever.
When they kill a soldier in self-defense, Fahima and Salima must outsmart the French Colonel who will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. The sisters are driven further into a cycle of violence with every attempt to hide their crime. Risking their lives and the lives of their loved ones, the dancers find themselves at the heart of a civilizational clash.
RUNNER-UP FOR THE 2022 ISLAND PRIZE FOR DEBUT AFRICAN NOVELS
SAND ROSES is a tale of resistance, sisterhood and the shameful past of two colliding nations. This extraordinarily immersive narrative thrusts its reader into the Algerian city of Bousaada during the 1930s and the story of the Nailiya dancers.
“…an extraordinarily immersive narrative, and a fascinating story of the little-known Ouled Nail dancers” – The Island Prize Judges.
‘…a resounding portrait of colonial Algeria in the 20th century… In Sand Roses Hamza Koudri invokes a nostalgia for Arthur Golden’s Memoirs of
a Geisha and the uncanny resemblance between the Japanese geisha and Algeria’s Ouled Nail practice’ – Obinna Udenwe, Winner of the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature.
‘Algerian author Hamza Koudri is brilliant in his debut’ – The Brittle Paper, 100 Notable African Books of 2023.
‘…With an immersive narrative and a clear writing style, … the author juggles between fiction and historical reality to paint an unprecedented picture of the region.’ – Reslane Lounici, Dzeriet Magazine.
It is 1931 when two sisters arrive in Bousaada bursting with dreams of becoming successful dancers. But the city, occupied by the ruthless French colonial army, changes their lives forever.
When they kill a soldier in self-defense, Fahima and Salima must outsmart the French Colonel who will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. The sisters are driven further into a cycle of violence with every attempt to hide their crime. Risking their lives and the lives of their loved ones, the dancers find themselves at the heart of a civilizational clash.
RUNNER-UP FOR THE 2022 ISLAND PRIZE FOR DEBUT AFRICAN NOVELS
SAND ROSES is a tale of resistance, sisterhood and the shameful past of two colliding nations. This extraordinarily immersive narrative thrusts its reader into the Algerian city of Bousaada during the 1930s and the story of the Nailiya dancers.
“…an extraordinarily immersive narrative, and a fascinating story of the little-known Ouled Nail dancers” – The Island Prize Judges.
‘…a resounding portrait of colonial Algeria in the 20th century… In Sand Roses Hamza Koudri invokes a nostalgia for Arthur Golden’s Memoirs of
a Geisha and the uncanny resemblance between the Japanese geisha and Algeria’s Ouled Nail practice’ – Obinna Udenwe, Winner of the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature.
‘Algerian author Hamza Koudri is brilliant in his debut’ – The Brittle Paper, 100 Notable African Books of 2023.
‘…With an immersive narrative and a clear writing style, … the author juggles between fiction and historical reality to paint an unprecedented picture of the region.’ – Reslane Lounici, Dzeriet Magazine.
336 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2023
8 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Hamza Koudri
1 book15 followersHamza Koudri has an MA in English Literature and Civilization and has been working in education and international development since 2008. Currently serving as the Country Director with the British Council in Algeria, he oversees a portfolio of English, STEM, higher education and cultural programmes, working closely with public sector teachers and institutions. Over the years, he has created and led courses and projects for youth and educators across the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region and beyond. During a year-long fellowship in the United States, he also helped establish a mentorship programme for a social equity course at Penn State University and a teacher training certificate program for Indiana University. He also took a creative writing course with award-winning author, Elizabeth Kadetsky, during which time he started working on Sand Roses.
Research for his novel took the better part of a decade, seeking traces of a muted past between the folds of visual documentation and oral histories. In 2022, Sand Roses was shortlisted for the Island Prize for unpublished African authors.
Hamza co-authored an article on “Social Responsibility Discretion in Algeria” highlighting unique management practices in the country. The article was published in “Responsible Management in Africa” with Emerald Publishing."
Research for his novel took the better part of a decade, seeking traces of a muted past between the folds of visual documentation and oral histories. In 2022, Sand Roses was shortlisted for the Island Prize for unpublished African authors.
Hamza co-authored an article on “Social Responsibility Discretion in Algeria” highlighting unique management practices in the country. The article was published in “Responsible Management in Africa” with Emerald Publishing."
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 16, 2023
SPOILER FREE
In a sentence: a historical criminal fictional masterpiece deserving of all prizes.
We embark on a journey back in time in the 30's to discover a past many people try to hide. a piece of history that weaves french colonial era in Algeria, Ouled Nail Dancers past and a touch of thrill, murder and revenge in the city of joy, Boussada.
With a delicate writing style, we meet the Ammarriyas, two sisters who dream of becoming Nailiya dancers and quickly meet with the harsh truth of what this entails. Our protagonists trail a new destiny when they kill a french soldier for self defense and this encounter will change their lives forever.
We explore many themes: french colonialism in Boussada and the atrocities the locals endured due to the colonial army. the hidden history of Nailiya dancers and their work that often required way more than just dancing. We also learn the intense link of sisterhood, motherhood and the closely knit relation between it all.
Written in 3rd person POV, we're offered a glance from different characters with smooth transitions and a pace that keeps rising as we inch closer to the end and many questions that rise with it as well all to be answered as the novel ends.
It's a historical fiction but it holds much more than just a piece of history woven in a tale, it's a past we often omit to look at, we often shy away from. It's a story from the people who decided not to endure their destiny and work to always rise from the ashes.
Definitely a book I recommend and will keep recommending for anyone into history, murder, crimes, thriller and anyone who wants to read an amazing book.
In a sentence: a historical criminal fictional masterpiece deserving of all prizes.
We embark on a journey back in time in the 30's to discover a past many people try to hide. a piece of history that weaves french colonial era in Algeria, Ouled Nail Dancers past and a touch of thrill, murder and revenge in the city of joy, Boussada.
With a delicate writing style, we meet the Ammarriyas, two sisters who dream of becoming Nailiya dancers and quickly meet with the harsh truth of what this entails. Our protagonists trail a new destiny when they kill a french soldier for self defense and this encounter will change their lives forever.
We explore many themes: french colonialism in Boussada and the atrocities the locals endured due to the colonial army. the hidden history of Nailiya dancers and their work that often required way more than just dancing. We also learn the intense link of sisterhood, motherhood and the closely knit relation between it all.
Written in 3rd person POV, we're offered a glance from different characters with smooth transitions and a pace that keeps rising as we inch closer to the end and many questions that rise with it as well all to be answered as the novel ends.
It's a historical fiction but it holds much more than just a piece of history woven in a tale, it's a past we often omit to look at, we often shy away from. It's a story from the people who decided not to endure their destiny and work to always rise from the ashes.
Definitely a book I recommend and will keep recommending for anyone into history, murder, crimes, thriller and anyone who wants to read an amazing book.
November 19, 2024
Few months later, and this book still lives rent-free in my head.
It’s been a while since I last revisited this masterpiece, yet I still struggle to put into words just how incredible it is.
Set during the era of Algerian colonialism—a backdrop rarely explored in English literature—this book tells the story of two Nailiyet sisters, Salima and Fahima. They leave their tribal upbringing to become courtesans in Bous’aada, “the city of joy,” lured by promises of glamour and prosperity. But their dreams unravel into a nightmare of violence after they unintentionally kill a French soldier in self-defense. This event sets them on a harrowing journey, running from an uncertain fate.
The characters are what make this story unforgettable. The author's use of juxtaposition between the two sisters is masterful. Salima, the elder, is a picture of resilience and determination. She tackles every challenge in the city with sharp wit and unshakable mental toughness, making her a fascinating character to follow. Fahima, on the other hand, is younger, more vulnerable, and deeply emotional. Her approach to life is guided by her feelings, which often conflicts with the harsh realities they face. Her naive yet ambitious dreams clash with the dangers around them, creating a powerful contrast. Together, their dynamic adds layers of emotional depth as they navigate the dire consequences of their choices.
The setting is another standout. The story immerses readers in a unique cultural landscape—one that contrasts the tribal traditions of the Ouled Nail with the tensions of colonial Algeria. The ongoing conflict between the Algerian resistance and the French colonial forces serves as an engaging backdrop that adds gravity to the sisters’ plight. The vivid depiction of Bous’aada makes it feel alive, pulling you into a world where ambition and survival are at constant odds.
The pacing of the story is perfectly balanced. It alternates between fast, heart-pounding moments and slower, reflective ones, creating an emotional rollercoaster that kept me hooked. I didn’t expect the story to be this thrilling—part chase, part mystery, all gripping.
Hamza’s writing is exquisite. Rich, descriptive, and deeply narrative, it’s easily some of the best prose I’ve encountered from an Algerian author. Every detail is vivid, every emotion raw.
However, the explicit sexual scenes were jarring at times. While they shed light on the hidden lives of Ouled Nail courtesans and their struggles, the graphic nature occasionally felt at odds with the cultural and historical setting. These moments were not without purpose, but they stood out in a way that disrupted the otherwise subtle and immersive tone of the story.
Despite this, Sand Roses is a triumph. It boldly explores untold stories of Algerian history with sincerity and depth. The writer doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of personal and social struggles during this turbulent era, crafting a narrative that’s both poignant and unflinchingly honest.
Verdict? Algerian or not, this is a book you have to experience at least once in your life.
It’s been a while since I last revisited this masterpiece, yet I still struggle to put into words just how incredible it is.
Set during the era of Algerian colonialism—a backdrop rarely explored in English literature—this book tells the story of two Nailiyet sisters, Salima and Fahima. They leave their tribal upbringing to become courtesans in Bous’aada, “the city of joy,” lured by promises of glamour and prosperity. But their dreams unravel into a nightmare of violence after they unintentionally kill a French soldier in self-defense. This event sets them on a harrowing journey, running from an uncertain fate.
The characters are what make this story unforgettable. The author's use of juxtaposition between the two sisters is masterful. Salima, the elder, is a picture of resilience and determination. She tackles every challenge in the city with sharp wit and unshakable mental toughness, making her a fascinating character to follow. Fahima, on the other hand, is younger, more vulnerable, and deeply emotional. Her approach to life is guided by her feelings, which often conflicts with the harsh realities they face. Her naive yet ambitious dreams clash with the dangers around them, creating a powerful contrast. Together, their dynamic adds layers of emotional depth as they navigate the dire consequences of their choices.
The setting is another standout. The story immerses readers in a unique cultural landscape—one that contrasts the tribal traditions of the Ouled Nail with the tensions of colonial Algeria. The ongoing conflict between the Algerian resistance and the French colonial forces serves as an engaging backdrop that adds gravity to the sisters’ plight. The vivid depiction of Bous’aada makes it feel alive, pulling you into a world where ambition and survival are at constant odds.
The pacing of the story is perfectly balanced. It alternates between fast, heart-pounding moments and slower, reflective ones, creating an emotional rollercoaster that kept me hooked. I didn’t expect the story to be this thrilling—part chase, part mystery, all gripping.
Hamza’s writing is exquisite. Rich, descriptive, and deeply narrative, it’s easily some of the best prose I’ve encountered from an Algerian author. Every detail is vivid, every emotion raw.
However, the explicit sexual scenes were jarring at times. While they shed light on the hidden lives of Ouled Nail courtesans and their struggles, the graphic nature occasionally felt at odds with the cultural and historical setting. These moments were not without purpose, but they stood out in a way that disrupted the otherwise subtle and immersive tone of the story.
Despite this, Sand Roses is a triumph. It boldly explores untold stories of Algerian history with sincerity and depth. The writer doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of personal and social struggles during this turbulent era, crafting a narrative that’s both poignant and unflinchingly honest.
Verdict? Algerian or not, this is a book you have to experience at least once in your life.
May 12, 2024
Immersive historical details, and an elaborate plot, based on the Ouled Nail dancers of Bou Saâda, Algeria. Too good, highly recommend!
November 27, 2024
Definitely wasn’t easy to read but I’m glad I took my sweet time with it. This book broadened my perspective on hidden parts of Algerian history.
June 3, 2025
I just finished this book, and it took me a moment to put it away: I found myself staring at the cover for minutes...
It is a story about the cycle of violence under colonization. It’s not about right and wrong, It's not about ideals. It's about resistence. It's about the search for tenderness in a strife ridden world. It’s about forgotten voices in a buried culture. It follows two sisters Ouled Naïl dancers navigating their way into the world of colonial era Bou Saada.
With a variety of characters, everyone of them living in his own world. Yet they're all stuck somewhere within this cycle of violence.
The writing is truly impressive, especially coming from a non-native English speaker. The prose is beautiful, and the plotting is masterful, it hooks you from the very first pages and carries you through every chapter. Sometimes, it’s impossible to put it down. From the prologue, we know the story will revolve around death and murder. Yet the author patiently takes us back to the very beginning showing us how the sisters ended up where they are. Their journey wasn't easy, as are some scenes.
The balance between historical fact and fiction is thoughtful and well-crafted. Thank you for shedding light on this history. Sand Roses is definitely a must-read.
"What I’m trying to say is,’ Naima kept going, ‘in this town no one is better than the rest. The French, the Caid, the Jews, the Ouled Nails, the prostitutes. We are all the same, yet we spend our lives judging each other."
"Joseph often felt time was experienced differently by the indigenous. It was like their time was circular. Never ending cycles. To him, time was linear, constantly marching forward. That was why Arabs struggled to progress, they kept running in circles."
It is a story about the cycle of violence under colonization. It’s not about right and wrong, It's not about ideals. It's about resistence. It's about the search for tenderness in a strife ridden world. It’s about forgotten voices in a buried culture. It follows two sisters Ouled Naïl dancers navigating their way into the world of colonial era Bou Saada.
With a variety of characters, everyone of them living in his own world. Yet they're all stuck somewhere within this cycle of violence.
The writing is truly impressive, especially coming from a non-native English speaker. The prose is beautiful, and the plotting is masterful, it hooks you from the very first pages and carries you through every chapter. Sometimes, it’s impossible to put it down. From the prologue, we know the story will revolve around death and murder. Yet the author patiently takes us back to the very beginning showing us how the sisters ended up where they are. Their journey wasn't easy, as are some scenes.
The balance between historical fact and fiction is thoughtful and well-crafted. Thank you for shedding light on this history. Sand Roses is definitely a must-read.
"What I’m trying to say is,’ Naima kept going, ‘in this town no one is better than the rest. The French, the Caid, the Jews, the Ouled Nails, the prostitutes. We are all the same, yet we spend our lives judging each other."
"Joseph often felt time was experienced differently by the indigenous. It was like their time was circular. Never ending cycles. To him, time was linear, constantly marching forward. That was why Arabs struggled to progress, they kept running in circles."
October 22, 2023
Reading Sand Roses was a one-of-a-kind experience. I was itching to know how the events would unfold, but I also didn’t want the book to end.
Sand Roses is a historical fiction novel set in Algeria in the 1930s when the country was under French colonial rule. The story follows two dancers, Salima and Fahima over the course of four or five years.
The book is incredibly well-written, with beautiful and moving prose that brings the setting and characters to life.
The story is interesting and intriguing, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing.
The characters are strong and well-developed, their relationships with each other are believable and I connected emotionally with some of them.
The book gave me a fascinating insight into some aspects of Algerian history that I ignored before and made me want to research and learn more.
Some readers may find the dual timeline elements of the story confusing or disorienting at times.
There is some violence and sexuality in the book, which may not be appropriate for all readers.
Overall, Sand Roses is an excellent historical fiction novel that is entertaining and thought-provoking. I am confident that it will delight fans of the genre, as well as those interested in learning more about Algerian history.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, crime, detective stories, or Algeria. This is a well-written and entertaining novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
Sand Roses is a historical fiction novel set in Algeria in the 1930s when the country was under French colonial rule. The story follows two dancers, Salima and Fahima over the course of four or five years.
The book is incredibly well-written, with beautiful and moving prose that brings the setting and characters to life.
The story is interesting and intriguing, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing.
The characters are strong and well-developed, their relationships with each other are believable and I connected emotionally with some of them.
The book gave me a fascinating insight into some aspects of Algerian history that I ignored before and made me want to research and learn more.
Some readers may find the dual timeline elements of the story confusing or disorienting at times.
There is some violence and sexuality in the book, which may not be appropriate for all readers.
Overall, Sand Roses is an excellent historical fiction novel that is entertaining and thought-provoking. I am confident that it will delight fans of the genre, as well as those interested in learning more about Algerian history.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, crime, detective stories, or Algeria. This is a well-written and entertaining novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
October 23, 2023
Reading this book proved to be an incredibly captivating and enlightening journey. Its historical fiction genre allowed me to gain profound insights.
Within the Algerian literary landscape, this book stands as a singular gem, unearthing a courageous narrative about lesser-known events. It masterfully paints a vivid tableau of a certain colonial era, highlighting the intricate dynamics between Algerians and French soldiers.
Packed with action, historical facts, fictional elements, and an enthralling suspense, it offers a multifaceted reading experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend this exceptional book.
Within the Algerian literary landscape, this book stands as a singular gem, unearthing a courageous narrative about lesser-known events. It masterfully paints a vivid tableau of a certain colonial era, highlighting the intricate dynamics between Algerians and French soldiers.
Packed with action, historical facts, fictional elements, and an enthralling suspense, it offers a multifaceted reading experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend this exceptional book.
November 4, 2023
"Sand Roses" offers an engaging look into a controversial piece of Algerian history during French colonial times. The characters deal with survival and tough choices, giving us a glimpse of the struggles and conflicts of the era.
The story sucks you in and makes you care about what happens to these people. You're rushing along with the plot, and the ending hits hard but feels just right, getting you excited for part two.
"Sand Roses" is an excellent read for those who appreciate historical fiction with substance. This book doesn’t just present a period of history; it challenges you to consider the human condition against its relentless progression. The sequel can't come soon enough.
The story sucks you in and makes you care about what happens to these people. You're rushing along with the plot, and the ending hits hard but feels just right, getting you excited for part two.
"Sand Roses" is an excellent read for those who appreciate historical fiction with substance. This book doesn’t just present a period of history; it challenges you to consider the human condition against its relentless progression. The sequel can't come soon enough.
November 12, 2023
Totally transports the reader to a time and place that is familiar and unfamiliar at once. A story of two girls trying to get along in life but get caught up in the murderous net of the occupation, and then find their own place and role in it. Talks about resistance, resilience and dignity, with so much detail and a plot twist every five pages you can’t put it down.
May 1, 2024
Sand Roses is one the book that makes you re think about what you know about history, me as Hamza koudri mentioned in his book didn't know about about this side of my country's history. However, it wasn't an easy one to swallow.
Although the characters in this story were functional, but you find your self feeling their rage, their sadness, their fear.
Although the characters in this story were functional, but you find your self feeling their rage, their sadness, their fear.
October 26, 2023
I had the privilege to be among the first readers of this wonderfully woven story. Some passages might be disturbing, though. Even so it’s definitely a must read. I can’t wait to read his next book.
May 14, 2025
4.5
Very immersive and a good mix of history and mystery woven throughout
Very immersive and a good mix of history and mystery woven throughout
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews