The Forty Rules of Love
"The Forty Rules of Love" is a novel by Elif Shafak that intertwines two narratives: one set in the 13th century and the other in contemporary times. The historical storyline follows the famous Persian poet Rumi and his spiritual mentor, Shams of Tabriz, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and the transformative power of relationships.
The modern narrative centers on Ella Rubinstein, a housewife who discovers Rumi's poetry while reading a manuscript about his life. As she delves deeper into the teachings of Shams, Ella embarks on a journey of self-discovery, challenging her own beliefs about love and fulfillment.