'A Nearby Country Called Love' follows the tumultuous journey of Issa, a man haunted by the self-immolation of a woman and the stark realities of Tehran's underground. As Iran teeters on the edge of turmoil, Issa's path intersects with individuals on the fringes of society, compelling him to grapple with his family's legacy of honor, his late brother's defiance as a queer artist, and his own quest for identity. Set against a backdrop of societal upheaval, the novel portrays the redemptive power of small acts of kindness amidst the violence and intolerance that pervade the Zamzam neighborhood. It's a narrative rich in humanity, offering a glimpse at contemporary Iran and the collective struggle to transcend a violent history.