City of Widows - an eye-opening story about three women in Afghanistan before and after the Taliban returned to power.

In 2021, after two decades of occupation, the United States began withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, and the Taliban swiftly regained control. This shift drastically altered life for the country's women, including Marjan. Her already challenging life was about to become even more difficult. When we first meet Marjan in 2014, she has left her abusive husband, a dangerous warlord, and is pregnant. Marjan is resolute in her determination to protect her daughter Hawa. A new friendship with Soraya leads them both to enlist as soldiers in the Afghan army, fighting alongside the Americans against the Taliban. When the story returns to 2021, Marjan and Hawa are on the run and find refuge in a place known as the City of Widows. Mina, a journalist, reports on the struggles faced by her country's women, risking her own safety. 

City of Widows by Nadia Hashimi is a deeply moving story about Afghan women who refused to be victims. It is a heartbreaking look at how quickly life in Afghanistan changed when the Taliban regained control. Those who fought against them became primary targets, including the all-female combat unit, a real-life group of women who inspired the author. While this is a story of hope and resilience, it highlights the reality of present-day Afghanistan, a nation that has endured significant loss. After enjoying a few romance books and over-the-top thrillers, it was time to read this eye-opening book.

Many thanks to William Morrow for providing a copy of this powerful book written by a gifted storyteller.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Literary Fiction.

Publication Date: July 28, 2026.

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