A powerful and poignant read that oozes suspense The American Visa’s cumulative emotional power resides in its ability to bring reality to life without reducing it to just another generic story.

An illuminating read, written with equal parts passion and calculation, it has compelling real-world relevance. It’s engrossing from the start and there’s a lot for readers to like about Meko’s novel. Not least his ability to place readers alongside his key characters whilst the style of his writing conveys a rare degree of warmth and candour. It’s so personal it’s like he’s opened a window to their souls as he puts a human face to the plight of Albanian immigrants and the endemic levels of corruption that profits from their dreams.

Meko deftly cycles through catharsis, doubt, rage and hope in a narrative that’s underpinned by a timely sense of nuance as he foregrounds elliptical plot strands. First and foremost amongst Meko’s characters is the real Artan Pojani whose identity has been stolen and his application for an American visa denied because it has already been granted to Arshim Gatrani. An immoral interloper who has paid handsomely for the privilege.

Artan’s story is not only edgy but it’s an opportunity to take stock of our expectations, where we come from and where we are going from an immigrant’s perspective and in doing so Meko dispels many of the myths that have become engrained in American social commentary. Tellingly, Artan’s new friend, Pandi, is himself an Albanian immigrant who has settled in America through legitimate means. His story provides Meko with a powerfully reflective perspective whilst Gogo Perculla embodies the persona of those who engage in corrupt behaviour for personal gain.

In a world where information overload often prevents us from seeing the truth, The American Visa lays bare the fissures, cracks and cavernous divides that ripple through the Albanian and American immigration system and the failure to address widespread systemic corruption. More importantly, Meko doesn’t give us a saccharin ending but a sombre one that feels tantalizingly real.

A vivid and immersive read that leaves us with much to think about The American Visa is highly recommended!