I love that this year I got my reading mojo back. I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I hope you do, too. This book is available on Amazon/ Kindle.

“A House Without Windows” by Nadia Hashimi is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of justice, freedom, and the resilience of the human spirit. The story follows the life of Zeba, a woman imprisoned for the murder of her husband in Afghanistan, as she navigates the complexities of the legal system and confronts the truth about her past. I may have taken a bit longer than normal to finish this captivating book because of events taking over, but I constantly thought of how I could sneak a bit of time to read at least ten pages if not more. That’s how captivated I was. 

Hashimi’s writing is both lyrical and poignant, drawing readers into Zeba’s world and evoking a deep sense of empathy for her struggles. The characters are richly drawn and the narrative is both suspenseful and emotionally resonant. The book has you gripped right from the start as you try to piece together the murder of Zeba’s husband. What could the motive have been? As each page turned, the deeper the mystery got until suddenly you piece together what exactly happened. 

Through Zeba’s journey, the novel explores important issues such as gender inequality, cultural expectations, and the power of friendship and solidarity. It challenges readers to question their assumptions and consider the ways in which societal norms can impact individual lives. Understanding Zeba’s almost frustrating silence when the truth finally comes out allows you to understand what exactly was going on. Society may have progressed, but deep down there are some things that are still judged wrongfully by people even before knowing what the exact story was. 

The tapestry of characters who have been a huge part of the book has been an interesting and thrilling ride. From the family members to the inmates and keepers of the law, every person who had a role in this book made a mark. 

“A House Without Windows” is a powerful and beautifully crafted novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished the last page. Hashimi’s storytelling is both gripping and insightful, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and the quest for justice and freedom. The story was so impactful that as I ended it, I was left thinking of how life might have continued for Zeba and her children, what might have become of them. That’s how powerful the story was!  Do read it. You’ll enjoy it.