Salama Kassab, a pharmacy student in Homs, Syria, finds her life irrevocably altered by the eruption of the Syrian revolution. Volunteering at a hospital, she grapples with the overwhelming influx of wounded and a desperate desire to escape before her sister-in-law, Layla, gives birth. Haunted by Khawf, an imagined manifestation of her fear, Salama is torn between loyalty to her homeland and the instinct for survival. Her resolve to leave wavers when she encounters a boy from her past, forcing her to confront the true nature of the conflict and find her voice for Syria's freedom.

Why You Should Read?

• Experience the raw emotions and struggles of a young woman navigating the chaos of war, offering a powerful human story of hope amidst adversity.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the Syrian revolution through a personal and heartfelt perspective, shedding light on the conflict's profound impact.
• Follow Salama’s journey as she confronts moral dilemmas, survival instincts, and the enduring strength of the human spirit, exploring themes of courage and resilience.
• Witness how love for one’s country, family, and unexpected connections can shape life-altering choices in the face of unimaginable challenges.

About the Author

Zoulfa Katouh is a Syrian-Canadian author who writes about her homeland with passion and insight. Her debut novel, 'As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow', draws on her experiences and heritage to tell a compelling story of resilience and hope amidst conflict. Katouh's work often explores themes of identity, displacement, and the enduring power of the human spirit.