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Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Genre: Literary Fiction, Family Drama, Sri Lankan Fiction

Book Review:
Premini Amerasinghe's ''The Search'' is a heartfelt and ambitious debut novel that takes readers on an intimate journey across the globe and into the deepest questions of identity and belonging. The story centers on David, an adopted man driven to uncover the truth about his biological mother, Rosemarie. This search becomes a catalyst, unraveling family histories that span from England to Sri Lanka and Australia.

Amerasinghe, a seasoned poet, brings a lyrical sensitivity to her prose, particularly in her descriptions of place and emotion. The novel's most intriguing element is the subtle thread of rebirth that connects a tragic death to a new beginning, adding a layer of metaphysical depth to the family saga. While the narrative deals with loss and separation, its core is ultimately about connection—to one's past, to one's culture, and to the people who define us.

As a first novel from an author who began writing fiction after retirement, ''The Search'' showcases a mature and contemplative voice. The pacing is reflective, allowing the emotional weight of David's quest to resonate fully. It is a significant addition to contemporary Sri Lankan writing in English, offering a diaspora perspective that will feel familiar and moving to many. Readers who enjoy character-driven literary fiction about family secrets and cross-cultural identities will find much to appreciate in this sincere and evocative story.