Salama Kassab was an ordinary pharmacy student when the cries for freedom erupted in Syria. She had her parents, her big brother, and the comfort of a normal teenage life in her beloved home. But everything changed with the onset of conflict. Now, Salama dedicates her days volunteering at a hospital in Homs, tending to the wounded who arrive in overwhelming numbers. Beneath her brave exterior, she harbors a desperate desire to escape Syria before her sister-in-law, Layla, gives birth. Her fear takes shape in the form of Khawf, an imagined companion who shadows her every move, pushing her toward safety.

Torn between her loyalty to her homeland and her instinct to survive, Salama navigates the chaos of war—facing bullets, bombs, and moral dilemmas. When she encounters a boy she was meant to meet on a pivotal day, her determination to leave Syria begins to waver. As Salama confronts her reality, she realizes that this is not just a war—it’s a revolution. She must decide how she will raise her voice for Syria’s freedom.

Why You Should Read This Book:

• A Powerful Human Story: Experience the raw emotions and struggles of a young woman trying to find hope amid the chaos of war.
• Insight into Syrian Conflict: Gain a deeper understanding of the Syrian revolution from a personal, heartfelt perspective.
• Themes of Courage and Resilience: Follow Salama’s journey as she faces moral dilemmas, survival instincts, and the strength of human spirit.
• Complex Characters and Emotional Depth: Meet characters like Khawf, who symbolize inner fears, and explore how they influence decisions and growth.
• A Tale of Love and Loyalty: Witness how love for one’s country, family, and unexpected connections can shape life-altering choices.