Daphne

Daphne is the first person narrator and protagonist of The Golden State. She is married to Engin and mother to 16-month-old Honey. Living in San Francisco, Daphne works at the university's Institute for the Study of Islamic Societies and Civilizations. Prior to getting this job, Daphne spent many years studying the Turkish language and culture. As a student traveling in Istanbul, she met Engin at a local bar. Though the two fell in love, Daphne ended their affair when her mother fell ill and she was forced to return to California to care for her. Five years later, while Daphne was pursuing her PhD, she returned to Turkey and reconnected with Engin. Realizing how much she loved Engin and wanted to start a life with him, she abandoned her degree and stayed overseas.

In the narrative present, Daphne is overwhelmed by her life in the city. Ever since...