A Novel
On The Other Side
Available Now
"I found On the Other Side to be an engrossing examination of what makes a person risk life and limb to travel illegally across Europe."
Anthony J. Quinn, Author of Turncoat
"I found On the Other Side to be an engrossing examination of what makes a person risk life and limb to travel illegally across Europe."
"An engrossing examination of what makes someone risk everything for love."
Rita Hanas flees Albania for London, chasing a love that may already be gone, and a stranger who could change everything.
View On AmazonI'm an Albanian-Dutch novelist based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. In my books, I focus not only on women's lives but also on the interconnectedness of different cultures which transcends borders and mentalities.
As a former journalist, I deeply believe in the impact of words, both in literature and in everyday life. Alongside my work as a librarian in Rotterdam, I support non-native speakers in gaining confidence in English and Dutch and in finding their way in a new culture. I speak Albanian, English, Dutch and Italian.
"On the Other Side by Teuta Metra follows not only Rita's physical journey from her home country of Albania to London but also her emotional journey as she learns about love, loss, and betrayal. I loved how this story was told on so many different levels, the harshness of Rita's life, and the courage and ingenuity she shows in the face of adversity."
"One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. There is a place for every feeling along the pages, love, hate, birth, death, poverty, hope, desire, ugliness, and beauty. The details of the places, cultural particles, and words and idioms specific to that country in each situation are very exquisite. Highly recommended."
"I found On the Other Side to be an engrossing examination of what makes a person risk life and limb to travel illegally across Europe and reach UK shores. The narrative burns with a moral urgency during this time of Brexit and increased border controls."
"NOWHERE GIRLS speaks eloquently of the lives of contemporary Albanian women. Compassionate, honest and unvarnished, it's a harrowing look at how a society can devour a woman."
I know somebody pushed me. I also know that I was supposed to meet somebody today, but there was a fight – I can't remember any more detail than that, it's so frustrating – and then I was pushed, and everything turned to black. This is what happens to people who are born on the wrong side of the border. The things I did before the tragedy were wrong...but do I really deserve that?