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Refuge Trilogy #1
Refuge
On a dusty, sweltering night, Noor Khan, a beautiful, headstrong Afghan refugee, comes face-to-face with Charlie Matthews, a brash, young American aid worker. To Noor's fury, Charlie breaks every cultural norm and pursues her. She wants nothing to do with him: her sole aim in life is to earn an overseas scholarship so she can escape the miseries of the refugee camps.
However when Noor's brother threatens to marry her off, she is forced to seek refuge in Charlie's home, of all places, and suddenly everything Noor believes in is put into question.
Set in the mystical and seething city of Peshawar, where no one is without an agenda and few can be trusted, Refuge is a timeless and unforgettable love story about the struggle for love and purpose in a cruel and cynical world.
However when Noor's brother threatens to marry her off, she is forced to seek refuge in Charlie's home, of all places, and suddenly everything Noor believes in is put into question.
Set in the mystical and seething city of Peshawar, where no one is without an agenda and few can be trusted, Refuge is a timeless and unforgettable love story about the struggle for love and purpose in a cruel and cynical world.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2012
35 people are currently reading
1756 people want to read
About the author
N.G. Osborne
4 books56 followersI grew up in Angus, Scotland and from there went south to England for my schooling at Winchester College. At eighteen I took a detour to Peshawar, Pakistan where I taught both Pakistani school children and Afghan refugees and then returned a year later and went on to university at Oxford where I studied Politics, Philosophy and Economics.
After Oxford, I had a burning desire to be in the film industry and so I applied and received a place at the Peter Stark Producing Program at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. Two years - that's what I told myself. I will study there for two years, get some interning experience in Hollywood, and then take my skills back to the UK. Oh, how one's plans so easily change.
Now 17 years later I am still in Los Angeles. I've been a film executive and a producer and worked on many wonderful movies. But about 5 years ago three things began to coincide. First, I increasingly wanted to write - I loved producing but it also frustrated me. Isn't the cliche that inside every producer is a frustrated writer? Well that was me. But bizarrely because I wasn't confident in my writing ability I thought I would write a novel not a screenplay. I know, talk about putting the cart before the horse.
If I was going to write a novel then I wanted to write one in a genre I loved - and though it may strange sound for a man to say this, my favorite genre of novel was love stories - not pulp romance novels but the classics - Anna Karenina, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Corelli's Mandolin, Love In The Time of Cholera, The Unbearable Lightness of Being. Classic romances that have stood the test of time. Now I'm not pretending what I have written is even close but it is the genre I perhaps naively chose.
The question was what and that is when I came back to my time in Pakistan - what if I told a simple story - a love story - set in 1991 between an American aid worker and a young female Afghan refugee. What I loved about the idea was that in all great romances there has to be something standing in the way of your couple getting together - in Romeo and Juliet it's that Capulets and Montagues are sworn enemies, in Corelli's Mandolin it's that Corelli is an invader and Peligia part of the population his troops have conquered. I think one of the issues of writing a great romance nowadays is that there are so few barriers to love - but there are plenty when your characters are a Muslim woman and an American man especially if they live in one of the most fundamentalist parts of the world.
Writing the novel was perversely one of the hardest and most rewarding things I've ever done - it's a bit like aid work actually. And what came out of it were these two great characters - Charlie and Noor - who I fell in love with and by the end of the process felt like the closest of friends. I do so hope you love them too.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 106 reviews
January 24, 2013
**Slight Spoilers in Here**
Pakistan 1991
Charlie Matthews is an American, that has done his stint in the Gulf War, now on assignment as an Aid worker in Pakistan as a deminer all he wants to do is get though it and then open a dive shop in Belize.
Noor Khan is an Afghanistani refugee in Pakistan, living in a refugee camp, all she wants to be is equal and free.
The thing that captivated me about this book is that it played out like a movie. So many interwoven characters and storylines that all lead back to the main one!
The MAIN story is the love story going on with Charlie and Noor. She does not want him as thinks he is arrogant and annoying and godless. She is a devout Muslim.
He chases her, which he is used to doing in the US but is not the way in Pakistan.
They eventually admit their love to each other, and he wants to come HOME as in the State's with him.
2nd story
Charlie and the relationship he has with his assistant Wali. They become close friends, until a tragedy strikes Wali and Charlie finally starts to take his job seriously, because of the tragedy it actually makes his students start to respect him more and he starts to enjoy his role.
3Rd Story
Charlie’s relationship with Noor’s father Aamir Khan. He was an University teacher and is incredibly smart. He practices Islam but does not want his daughters to wear a Burqa. He wants them to have their own minds and make something of themselves. He and Charlie become quite buddy-buddy and it is because of him that Noor starts to see Charlie in a different light.
Still with me?
4th Story
Elma, She is a Dutch aid worker in Pakistan. She is also known for sleeping her way to the top. She is currently gunning for a new position in New York and is having a reporter follow her around. She falls for him. Then it turns sour and she turns into a bitch!
She also wants to help Noor go to University in Holland. She helps Noor learn Dutch and tutors her with the essay and her application.
But Ivor convinces her to do something VERY wrong for her own personal gain!
Confused yet?
5th Story
Ivor Gardener is a CIA Operative. Except most people kinda know he is? He floats in and out of the story. We first meet him at the bar where he befriends Charlie. We then see him with Elma and Rod. He seems to show up all the right parties.
However we do also see him meeting with His Royal Highness the Prince of Saudi Arabia, asking a lot of questions about Bin Laden.
6th Story
Tariq is Aamir’s only son, Noors brother. A real piece of work.
Believes the world owes him something. He is fighting the war and worms his way into the Prince of Saudi Arabia’s good graces and becomes one of his trusted few. When the Prince mentions that he wants to take on a 4th wife. Tariq shows him a picture of Noor. He then decides that is how he is going to stay in the Princes graces by becoming his brother in law, even if he has to force Noor to marry the Prince.
Still hanging in there?
It all comes to a head at the end of the book.
I mean literally it goes off with a Bang!
I'm not going to say what EXACTLY HAPPENS
but
Yes it is a Cliffhanger.
With both Charlie AND Noor on 2 different planes.
heading to 2 different places.
That neither wants to be!...
MY HONEST OPINION!
I know it seems like a lot is happening…and well it is! But it all makes sense when you read it. You literally feel as if you are apart of it all.
The detail that the author goes too? AMAZING!
It states at the back that she did in fact work in Pakistan for years as an ex pat and it shines deeply through her detailed explanation of the place, the sights, the smell, the feel of it all.
I can’t believe this is her first book.
The characters all have their own POV, and when you are inside their heads you can tell who’s head your in, it’s like the writing style just changes. It’s also a third person POV as well.
It took me a bit to like Noor and Charlie to be honest, Noor just seemed like a bitch. Charlie just an arrogant ass.
Wali and Aamir were great stand out characters!
The Prince (I can’t remember if he actually had a name sorry!) Tariq and Ivor all gave me the creeps.
And Elma… Goddamn Elma! GRR
The whole thing,..
It’s just..
BRAVO
So basically what have done here is just tell u it's awesome and not much about the actual ending hopefully!
READ IT PEEPS!
I can tell by the ending and all the mention of Bin Laden that it is leading towards September 11, the way that she has left the ending all up in the air?
I cannot wait for the next one. I can’t believe that this book was free!
I have truly been blessed with my reading choice this year.
Pakistan 1991
Charlie Matthews is an American, that has done his stint in the Gulf War, now on assignment as an Aid worker in Pakistan as a deminer all he wants to do is get though it and then open a dive shop in Belize.
Noor Khan is an Afghanistani refugee in Pakistan, living in a refugee camp, all she wants to be is equal and free.
The thing that captivated me about this book is that it played out like a movie. So many interwoven characters and storylines that all lead back to the main one!
The MAIN story is the love story going on with Charlie and Noor. She does not want him as thinks he is arrogant and annoying and godless. She is a devout Muslim.
He chases her, which he is used to doing in the US but is not the way in Pakistan.
They eventually admit their love to each other, and he wants to come HOME as in the State's with him.
2nd story
Charlie and the relationship he has with his assistant Wali. They become close friends, until a tragedy strikes Wali and Charlie finally starts to take his job seriously, because of the tragedy it actually makes his students start to respect him more and he starts to enjoy his role.
3Rd Story
Charlie’s relationship with Noor’s father Aamir Khan. He was an University teacher and is incredibly smart. He practices Islam but does not want his daughters to wear a Burqa. He wants them to have their own minds and make something of themselves. He and Charlie become quite buddy-buddy and it is because of him that Noor starts to see Charlie in a different light.
Still with me?
4th Story
Elma, She is a Dutch aid worker in Pakistan. She is also known for sleeping her way to the top. She is currently gunning for a new position in New York and is having a reporter follow her around. She falls for him. Then it turns sour and she turns into a bitch!
She also wants to help Noor go to University in Holland. She helps Noor learn Dutch and tutors her with the essay and her application.
But Ivor convinces her to do something VERY wrong for her own personal gain!
Confused yet?
5th Story
Ivor Gardener is a CIA Operative. Except most people kinda know he is? He floats in and out of the story. We first meet him at the bar where he befriends Charlie. We then see him with Elma and Rod. He seems to show up all the right parties.
However we do also see him meeting with His Royal Highness the Prince of Saudi Arabia, asking a lot of questions about Bin Laden.
6th Story
Tariq is Aamir’s only son, Noors brother. A real piece of work.
Believes the world owes him something. He is fighting the war and worms his way into the Prince of Saudi Arabia’s good graces and becomes one of his trusted few. When the Prince mentions that he wants to take on a 4th wife. Tariq shows him a picture of Noor. He then decides that is how he is going to stay in the Princes graces by becoming his brother in law, even if he has to force Noor to marry the Prince.
Still hanging in there?
It all comes to a head at the end of the book.
I mean literally it goes off with a Bang!
I'm not going to say what EXACTLY HAPPENS
but
Yes it is a Cliffhanger.
With both Charlie AND Noor on 2 different planes.
heading to 2 different places.
That neither wants to be!...
MY HONEST OPINION!
I know it seems like a lot is happening…and well it is! But it all makes sense when you read it. You literally feel as if you are apart of it all.
The detail that the author goes too? AMAZING!
It states at the back that she did in fact work in Pakistan for years as an ex pat and it shines deeply through her detailed explanation of the place, the sights, the smell, the feel of it all.
I can’t believe this is her first book.
The characters all have their own POV, and when you are inside their heads you can tell who’s head your in, it’s like the writing style just changes. It’s also a third person POV as well.
It took me a bit to like Noor and Charlie to be honest, Noor just seemed like a bitch. Charlie just an arrogant ass.
Wali and Aamir were great stand out characters!
The Prince (I can’t remember if he actually had a name sorry!) Tariq and Ivor all gave me the creeps.
And Elma… Goddamn Elma! GRR
The whole thing,..
It’s just..
BRAVO
So basically what have done here is just tell u it's awesome and not much about the actual ending hopefully!
READ IT PEEPS!
I can tell by the ending and all the mention of Bin Laden that it is leading towards September 11, the way that she has left the ending all up in the air?
I cannot wait for the next one. I can’t believe that this book was free!
I have truly been blessed with my reading choice this year.
January 14, 2014
Before reading this book, I read 'Love in the Time of Cholera', a book about a so called 'epic love story'. It was everything, but that and boring too. I was hugely disappointed, because it didn't make me feel anything and it was in my opinion not about love at all, but about a sickly obsession. I was so relieved when I started to read 'Refuge'. I was in need of a real good book that would make me fall in love with its characters that would make me feel, laugh and cry. It's one of the best and most touching books I've read in a long time with action, some twists and turns, shocking moments that will keep you on the edge of your chair and a 'real' epic love story.
What I loved most about this book is that the writing style is pleasant, not complicated and very entertaining. It's an easy read and definitely a page turner.
All the characters are very real with their good and bad sides and I enjoyed reading how friendships and relationships grew and evolved in a very natural and realistic way. It all made sense and was never weird in spite of the characters having cultural differences. My favourites are the independent and strong-headed Noor (Afghani refugee) and Wali is just too adorable for words. I love Noor and Charlie's (American, old Gulf vet) relationship that seems to be impossible in the beginning, but is still so believable that you want them to work it out. Just as wonderful is the deep friendship between Wali and Charlie. They make me laugh all the time, their conversations can be absolutely hilarious.
The story is set in Pakistan and Afghanistan. I didn't know very much about these countries. This books gives a great insight in the culture and beliefs of the Afghan and Pakistan people which made me respect and understand these people much more.
In my opinion it's an excellent debut that I will add to my favourite book shelf and I highly recommend it. I would love to read more books written by Nick Osborne and I'm happy to know that this book is the first of a trilogy and there is more to come. I can't wait to find out what happens next.
What I loved most about this book is that the writing style is pleasant, not complicated and very entertaining. It's an easy read and definitely a page turner.
All the characters are very real with their good and bad sides and I enjoyed reading how friendships and relationships grew and evolved in a very natural and realistic way. It all made sense and was never weird in spite of the characters having cultural differences. My favourites are the independent and strong-headed Noor (Afghani refugee) and Wali is just too adorable for words. I love Noor and Charlie's (American, old Gulf vet) relationship that seems to be impossible in the beginning, but is still so believable that you want them to work it out. Just as wonderful is the deep friendship between Wali and Charlie. They make me laugh all the time, their conversations can be absolutely hilarious.
The story is set in Pakistan and Afghanistan. I didn't know very much about these countries. This books gives a great insight in the culture and beliefs of the Afghan and Pakistan people which made me respect and understand these people much more.
In my opinion it's an excellent debut that I will add to my favourite book shelf and I highly recommend it. I would love to read more books written by Nick Osborne and I'm happy to know that this book is the first of a trilogy and there is more to come. I can't wait to find out what happens next.
March 23, 2013
SOME SPOILERS
I'm absolutely shocked by all the good reviews here. This was a quick read, I read it in about two days. I really love stories like this, I love historical fiction, multicultural romance stories and of course I like action. Plus I'm Afghan so it made me even more excited to read it! It's horrible, do not even bother with it. I actually had to force myself to read it and almost could not finish. You shouldn't even bother finishing since it ends on a cliffhanger, which is a stupid gimmick for book two. The first thing about this book is the two main characters Noor and Charlie are so clichéd it's unbelievable. Noor, of course, is a liberal "westernized" thinking Muslim and she has no flaws at all. She is beautiful, courageous, headstrong, and educated. Oh, she is the best teacher at the school she teaches at, she writes amazing essays, and also speaks flawless English. And uses very big English words, that I highly doubt an Afghan refugee would know. Like I said, she has no flaws at all. None. Except calloused feet. Her character does not appear genuine at all, she is so wooden. It makes her annoying and I didn't sympathize with her character at all because she is so fake. I don't know if it's because it's a male writing her, or if it's because it's a non-Afghan trying to write her. I mean I have seen authors who write a character from other cultures extremely well so I don't know what happened here.
Charlie is the American solider going to Peshawar, I think the description says he's an aid worker, so to not ruin anything I'll keep at that. He also is perfect, and his character development is so weak that I can barley even describe him. He saves Wali from death, he saves twelve year old Kamila from being married off, and he is sensitive/caring. He see's Noor (I believe on a bus), and suddenly realizes he is in love with her. So he follows her and bumps into her, and declares, "You are the most beautiful girl I have ever seen!". Yeah, if I was Noor, I'd be a bit freaked out too. Anyway he writes his name and for Noor to meet him at a hotel lobby on the back of a rupee. She doesn't meet him, obviously, but her father does! This part of the book made no sense to me at all, her father, goes to see him at the hotel and asks for him to meet his daughter and give her hope for her scholarship. This part is so unrealistic I just can't get over it, I don't even know any American father who would do that, I could understand a close family friend or whatever but a person he doesn't even know?! So they meet and Noor doesn't like him and gets mad at him. In the meantime, her deeply religious brother Tariq, is planning to marry Noor off to a rich Arab prince from Saudi Arabia! At this point, I'm ready to quit this book. An Arab prince? Really?! Tariq also has no character depth whatsoever, he's just bad. So Noor , her father and sister start to live at Charlie's house to hide from Tariq. And then they fall in love, they find out they have so much in common because both their mothers died when they were young. But their love is contrived and not believable at all. They hardly speak to each other and lack any type of chemistry. So they get engaged, Baba gives them his blessing. Charlie goes to Islamabad to get Noor's passport. While he's there, Tariq and the Prince find Noor, kill her father and force her to marry the prince. And it ends with Charlie hurt and vowing to find her. While Noor goes off to Saudi.
The one problem with this book, is that it reads more like a b-grade action movie or for those who know Bollywood a bad "masala" movie, than a novel. It mainly consists of dialogue, there is rarely any descriptions or character feelings. Also for a book about Afghan refugees, he doesn't go into the actual facts of their life. Except Noor and her family we don't know any of the other Afghan refugees or the things they actually go through. Instead he goes into all sugar coated action. And many of the dialogue is stock and does not move the story forward. There are way too many references to books and things are repeated constantly. There is really no theme to the book and when it's done, it's like what is the point? Some scenes drag and needed to be edited out. Every character in this speaks similarly, so when the author doesn't have the "said" tags it gets very hard to follow because they speak the same way. The author mentions that at the end that he had Afghans go over to look for inaccuracies. They missed a lot. I would go into them, but this review is getting really long. As an Afghan I really did not like this book, like most books it shows all are men are evil and hate women. I honestly hate writing bad reviews and I have nothing against the author and I love that he wanted to bring attention to Afghan refugees in Pakistan. But I hate the fact he turned it into a glorified action novel with no depth. I shouldn't be criticizing it because I know writing is hard, but this was one of the worst I have ever read.
I'm absolutely shocked by all the good reviews here. This was a quick read, I read it in about two days. I really love stories like this, I love historical fiction, multicultural romance stories and of course I like action. Plus I'm Afghan so it made me even more excited to read it! It's horrible, do not even bother with it. I actually had to force myself to read it and almost could not finish. You shouldn't even bother finishing since it ends on a cliffhanger, which is a stupid gimmick for book two. The first thing about this book is the two main characters Noor and Charlie are so clichéd it's unbelievable. Noor, of course, is a liberal "westernized" thinking Muslim and she has no flaws at all. She is beautiful, courageous, headstrong, and educated. Oh, she is the best teacher at the school she teaches at, she writes amazing essays, and also speaks flawless English. And uses very big English words, that I highly doubt an Afghan refugee would know. Like I said, she has no flaws at all. None. Except calloused feet. Her character does not appear genuine at all, she is so wooden. It makes her annoying and I didn't sympathize with her character at all because she is so fake. I don't know if it's because it's a male writing her, or if it's because it's a non-Afghan trying to write her. I mean I have seen authors who write a character from other cultures extremely well so I don't know what happened here.
Charlie is the American solider going to Peshawar, I think the description says he's an aid worker, so to not ruin anything I'll keep at that. He also is perfect, and his character development is so weak that I can barley even describe him. He saves Wali from death, he saves twelve year old Kamila from being married off, and he is sensitive/caring. He see's Noor (I believe on a bus), and suddenly realizes he is in love with her. So he follows her and bumps into her, and declares, "You are the most beautiful girl I have ever seen!". Yeah, if I was Noor, I'd be a bit freaked out too. Anyway he writes his name and for Noor to meet him at a hotel lobby on the back of a rupee. She doesn't meet him, obviously, but her father does! This part of the book made no sense to me at all, her father, goes to see him at the hotel and asks for him to meet his daughter and give her hope for her scholarship. This part is so unrealistic I just can't get over it, I don't even know any American father who would do that, I could understand a close family friend or whatever but a person he doesn't even know?! So they meet and Noor doesn't like him and gets mad at him. In the meantime, her deeply religious brother Tariq, is planning to marry Noor off to a rich Arab prince from Saudi Arabia! At this point, I'm ready to quit this book. An Arab prince? Really?! Tariq also has no character depth whatsoever, he's just bad. So Noor , her father and sister start to live at Charlie's house to hide from Tariq. And then they fall in love, they find out they have so much in common because both their mothers died when they were young. But their love is contrived and not believable at all. They hardly speak to each other and lack any type of chemistry. So they get engaged, Baba gives them his blessing. Charlie goes to Islamabad to get Noor's passport. While he's there, Tariq and the Prince find Noor, kill her father and force her to marry the prince. And it ends with Charlie hurt and vowing to find her. While Noor goes off to Saudi.
The one problem with this book, is that it reads more like a b-grade action movie or for those who know Bollywood a bad "masala" movie, than a novel. It mainly consists of dialogue, there is rarely any descriptions or character feelings. Also for a book about Afghan refugees, he doesn't go into the actual facts of their life. Except Noor and her family we don't know any of the other Afghan refugees or the things they actually go through. Instead he goes into all sugar coated action. And many of the dialogue is stock and does not move the story forward. There are way too many references to books and things are repeated constantly. There is really no theme to the book and when it's done, it's like what is the point? Some scenes drag and needed to be edited out. Every character in this speaks similarly, so when the author doesn't have the "said" tags it gets very hard to follow because they speak the same way. The author mentions that at the end that he had Afghans go over to look for inaccuracies. They missed a lot. I would go into them, but this review is getting really long. As an Afghan I really did not like this book, like most books it shows all are men are evil and hate women. I honestly hate writing bad reviews and I have nothing against the author and I love that he wanted to bring attention to Afghan refugees in Pakistan. But I hate the fact he turned it into a glorified action novel with no depth. I shouldn't be criticizing it because I know writing is hard, but this was one of the worst I have ever read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2012
I am torn because I loved this sweet, complex love story, the setting, and the eye-opening look at the horrific conditions many women in the Middle East are subjected to (I am seriously SO glad to live in America!). BUT...just be aware ahead of time that this is the first of a probable three-part series. I was not aware of that fact as I was reading the book, and when I got to the end, I was extremely frustrated, and, yes, ANGRY!!! How could the author leave me hanging like this??? I think if I knew in advance that it was a series, I would have been more prepared.
After checking the author's facebook page and receiving a very kind email from the author, I am hopeful that the next book will be available sometime in mid-2013.
It is an endearing, thought-provoking, and heart-wrenching book. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series!
After checking the author's facebook page and receiving a very kind email from the author, I am hopeful that the next book will be available sometime in mid-2013.
It is an endearing, thought-provoking, and heart-wrenching book. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series!
November 21, 2012
Epic! Sweeping! Can't put down! Read in one sitting kind of book! I loved this novel and cried throughout, starting from the first chapter. If books like LOVE IN THE TIME OF CHOLERA appeal to you so will REFUGE. With its timeless love story and exotic backdrop, the parallels are obvious. Charlie & Noor are at the center but they are surrounded by a cast of characters just as interesting, funny, vile and tortured. Wali is a stand out character and offers a sense of hope and optimism in what is painted here, a cold, dark world - especially for women. Noor's need and desire to escape is aided by the most caring father figure I have read in a novel. I love books that take me to another place and entertain - this book does just that. But I also recognize the responsibility great literature has - which is to provide provocation, thought and conversation starters about places, times & cultures that need big bright lights shone upon them. At its heart, this is a love story but beyond that REFUGE is an eye opening expose into a world where women are not allowed to make choices for themselves - simple as that - not allowed. In these parts of the world, many believe it is dangerous for girls to have knowledge. I believe it is dangerous for extremists to dictate societies' norms. REFUGE does many things - it will make you laugh, cry, weep and spoiler alert! SHOCK YOU. It will also make you think, and that's a good thing.
December 15, 2012
This book was so different to what I have been reading lately it really lets you explore another culture and its people and amongst it all is forbidden romance . It was a beautiful story and I can't wait for book 2.
November 19, 2012
This is one of the most beautiful and deeply moving novels that I have read in a long time. Set in 1991, in the Pakistani city of Peshawar, we are introduced to two people from two very different worlds who accidentally meet setting in motion an unforgettable love story.
Charlie, a young Gulf War veteran has been employed by a demining agency whose expectations of any success or progress in the region to be unlikely and low. Whilst getting used to the pace of the city he bumps into Noor, a twenty year old Afghan teacher who dreams of escaping the refugee camp that has become home for her and her family. Charlie is completely captivated by Noor's beauty and unwittingly sets out to break every conceivable rule that westerners should adhere to. Noor however is horrified by this man that won't stop pursuing her. Her father, a former English professor tries to encourage her to befriend him as a possible aid to securing an overseas scholarship, so when a member of her family betrays her she finds herself looking to Charlie for a place to hide and a possible way of escaping the life that is slowly destroying her.
I fell in love with this book right away and the small cast of wonderful characters. Their world is described so colourfully you feel you are in the story yourself witnessing every moment, watching their lives evolving. Their story stayed with me long after finishing it.
Highly recommended, this is an excellent debut from an author from whom I would like to see a lot more.
Charlie, a young Gulf War veteran has been employed by a demining agency whose expectations of any success or progress in the region to be unlikely and low. Whilst getting used to the pace of the city he bumps into Noor, a twenty year old Afghan teacher who dreams of escaping the refugee camp that has become home for her and her family. Charlie is completely captivated by Noor's beauty and unwittingly sets out to break every conceivable rule that westerners should adhere to. Noor however is horrified by this man that won't stop pursuing her. Her father, a former English professor tries to encourage her to befriend him as a possible aid to securing an overseas scholarship, so when a member of her family betrays her she finds herself looking to Charlie for a place to hide and a possible way of escaping the life that is slowly destroying her.
I fell in love with this book right away and the small cast of wonderful characters. Their world is described so colourfully you feel you are in the story yourself witnessing every moment, watching their lives evolving. Their story stayed with me long after finishing it.
Highly recommended, this is an excellent debut from an author from whom I would like to see a lot more.
November 22, 2012
I absolutely hated this book!(Not really.) I hated how it made me feel angry at the end of it, I hated how I couldn't get it out of my mind after I was done reading it. I hated the fact that I yearned for more after flipping through the last page of the book. I hated how much it made me laugh, smile, and most importantly cry. I hated the fact that I was so entranced by this book, that I took it personal when things didn't work out as planned for the two main characters. I hate having to think "what if this had happen..." "what if that had happen..."
Overall I hate how much I loved this book!
Overall I hate how much I loved this book!
November 16, 2012
What can be more compelling than forbidden love? Refuge introduces us to two unlikely lovers, Charlie a US aid worker and Noor, a headstrong Afghani refugee now living in Peshawar.
From the opening chapters, where we are introduced to Noor's family as they flee Afghanistan and Charlie, a 25 year old Gulf War veteran who wants to make a difference in the world, to the compelling final chapter, I could not put this book down.
Not only are we introduced to the two main characters, but we are captivated by the myriad of characters involved along the way. Aamir, Noor's father, a former English professor, and definitely not your stereotypical Muslim father, only wants what's best for his daughters. Noor's brother, Tariq, however, has joined forces with a radical mujahideen group and has different plans for Noor. Add to this Elma Kuyt, an ambitious Dutch aid worker, Ivor Gardener, a CIA agent, a Saudi Prince and numerous desperate Pakistani's and what N Osborne has done is magically weave an intriguing and captivating story.
Will Charlie and Noor find love? Will Noor's ambition lead her elsewhere? What will happen with the Saudi Prince? If you enjoy angst/romance, then this is definitely a novel you need to read - you won't be disappointed. I know I wasn't. I hope Nick Osborne continues Charlie & Noor's story because this tale has the makings of a saga that I would be more than happy to follow.
From the opening chapters, where we are introduced to Noor's family as they flee Afghanistan and Charlie, a 25 year old Gulf War veteran who wants to make a difference in the world, to the compelling final chapter, I could not put this book down.
Not only are we introduced to the two main characters, but we are captivated by the myriad of characters involved along the way. Aamir, Noor's father, a former English professor, and definitely not your stereotypical Muslim father, only wants what's best for his daughters. Noor's brother, Tariq, however, has joined forces with a radical mujahideen group and has different plans for Noor. Add to this Elma Kuyt, an ambitious Dutch aid worker, Ivor Gardener, a CIA agent, a Saudi Prince and numerous desperate Pakistani's and what N Osborne has done is magically weave an intriguing and captivating story.
Will Charlie and Noor find love? Will Noor's ambition lead her elsewhere? What will happen with the Saudi Prince? If you enjoy angst/romance, then this is definitely a novel you need to read - you won't be disappointed. I know I wasn't. I hope Nick Osborne continues Charlie & Noor's story because this tale has the makings of a saga that I would be more than happy to follow.
Read
October 31, 2013I am not going to give this book a star rating due to the fact that I had to dnf it at 50%.
OMG! I cannot STAND this heroine! There is nothing I hate more than a self righteous heroine. I find her even more disgusting since compared to 98% of the other females who live in refugee camps, she has had it EASY! She has made it to adulthood retaining her virtue (as far as I know), she has a job, she has HOPE for her future. While so many other's just exist! The fact that she is aware of her "righteous indignation" does not make her character tolerable in the least bit.
Charlie is a good man who deserves someone who has the ability to actually care for someone other than herself. It is his wonderful friendship with his driver that had made the first half worth reading.
The writing itself was decent despite the fact that even at the halfway point I still had no clue what Charlie looked like. He was tall, slim, and he had a 3 inch scar on his cheek was about all I knew.
OMG! I cannot STAND this heroine! There is nothing I hate more than a self righteous heroine. I find her even more disgusting since compared to 98% of the other females who live in refugee camps, she has had it EASY! She has made it to adulthood retaining her virtue (as far as I know), she has a job, she has HOPE for her future. While so many other's just exist! The fact that she is aware of her "righteous indignation" does not make her character tolerable in the least bit.
Charlie is a good man who deserves someone who has the ability to actually care for someone other than herself. It is his wonderful friendship with his driver that had made the first half worth reading.
The writing itself was decent despite the fact that even at the halfway point I still had no clue what Charlie looked like. He was tall, slim, and he had a 3 inch scar on his cheek was about all I knew.
April 28, 2024
honestly after my first read, I would have given it 4 stars. I really enjoyed the story and found it compelling. however, upon rereading I have to acknowledged that the story is mainly serves to reinforce the stereotypes westerners already want to believe about the middle east.
October 11, 2014
Book 1, in the Refuge Trilogy
“Refuge” is a touching, timeless and unforgettable love story set in the mystical and seething city of Peshawar, Pakistan. This story was inspired from experiences working as a young aid worker teaching school in an Afghan refugee camp and the author’s words truly shines throughout this wonderful book. Although a fiction this novel seems quite real.
This brilliantly romantic drama showcases a world where the right to love is lethal and freedom for women is non-existent. The author’s superbly evokes the atmosphere and intrigues of a city where everyone has their own agenda. This story is more than entertainment, reading between the lines I couldn't help but to reflect on what is important in life. How different conservative Islamic world is to ours. This world is such a dangerous place where nearly every man carries guns, where a war rages nearby and where nearly every woman hides behind burqas. If we think women have a hard time you be surprised to read men have an even worse one.
“Refuge” is the perfect title. In the story the main character Charlie provides a refuge for the Khan family, a place in his home where they can feel safe. That is where Charlie and Noor Khan share their emotions and be honest with each other. So this classic love story takes us on a perilous journey through Pakistan and Afghanistan…..
“Refuge” has a riveting and well-developed scenario. Its pacing is brisk, full of nerve racking action and populated with wonderful multidimensional characters. If you can surmount the idea that this novel is riddle with old clichés and being hung dry at the end (cheap ploy) you should enjoy this page turner. I am looking forward to“ Resilience” its sequel.
“Refuge” is a touching, timeless and unforgettable love story set in the mystical and seething city of Peshawar, Pakistan. This story was inspired from experiences working as a young aid worker teaching school in an Afghan refugee camp and the author’s words truly shines throughout this wonderful book. Although a fiction this novel seems quite real.
This brilliantly romantic drama showcases a world where the right to love is lethal and freedom for women is non-existent. The author’s superbly evokes the atmosphere and intrigues of a city where everyone has their own agenda. This story is more than entertainment, reading between the lines I couldn't help but to reflect on what is important in life. How different conservative Islamic world is to ours. This world is such a dangerous place where nearly every man carries guns, where a war rages nearby and where nearly every woman hides behind burqas. If we think women have a hard time you be surprised to read men have an even worse one.
“Refuge” is the perfect title. In the story the main character Charlie provides a refuge for the Khan family, a place in his home where they can feel safe. That is where Charlie and Noor Khan share their emotions and be honest with each other. So this classic love story takes us on a perilous journey through Pakistan and Afghanistan…..
“Refuge” has a riveting and well-developed scenario. Its pacing is brisk, full of nerve racking action and populated with wonderful multidimensional characters. If you can surmount the idea that this novel is riddle with old clichés and being hung dry at the end (cheap ploy) you should enjoy this page turner. I am looking forward to“ Resilience” its sequel.
November 6, 2014
I started reading this book and straight away I felt "at home". I was very impressed with how it felt so familiar and like a pair of old slippers. It was almost like chatting to an old friend.
This novel starts off during 1981 in Kabul as Noor and her family flee Afghanistan when the Russians invade. They become refugees and move to Peshawar in Pakistan. The book then moves onto 1991 and she meets Charlie Matthews, an American aid worker. From here this novel becomes very cross-genre.
Refuge is a mixture of historical fiction, politics, culture, religion, land mine clearance, refugee camps and romance. This mixture works well and makes for an enjoyable read. I liked the context of the story and getting the full picture. It was a good book to escape into and I liked how all the background and information was woven into the story, so that readers who are not experts on Afghanistan and Pakistan, can understand the problems involved.
There is a lot of action in this novel but no sex to upset your grandmother. The plot is a little convenient to make the story work but this is a good daily read. The quality of writing and character development is good. There is a warmth that comes through which is very similar to the news reports filed about the Middle East by Robert Fisk for the Independent newspaper. It was this warmth among the poverty, politics, jihad, struggle and violence that made me feel so "at home". Osborne ticks all the boxes for an intelligent, informative and entertaining read. Although I did NOT like the ending, this is still a top score 5 star read. It will make you think before you run after a football!
Refuge is available as an Amazon Kindle eBook and was written in 2012.
This novel starts off during 1981 in Kabul as Noor and her family flee Afghanistan when the Russians invade. They become refugees and move to Peshawar in Pakistan. The book then moves onto 1991 and she meets Charlie Matthews, an American aid worker. From here this novel becomes very cross-genre.
Refuge is a mixture of historical fiction, politics, culture, religion, land mine clearance, refugee camps and romance. This mixture works well and makes for an enjoyable read. I liked the context of the story and getting the full picture. It was a good book to escape into and I liked how all the background and information was woven into the story, so that readers who are not experts on Afghanistan and Pakistan, can understand the problems involved.
There is a lot of action in this novel but no sex to upset your grandmother. The plot is a little convenient to make the story work but this is a good daily read. The quality of writing and character development is good. There is a warmth that comes through which is very similar to the news reports filed about the Middle East by Robert Fisk for the Independent newspaper. It was this warmth among the poverty, politics, jihad, struggle and violence that made me feel so "at home". Osborne ticks all the boxes for an intelligent, informative and entertaining read. Although I did NOT like the ending, this is still a top score 5 star read. It will make you think before you run after a football!
Refuge is available as an Amazon Kindle eBook and was written in 2012.
December 27, 2012
This book is so full of cliches and implausibilities that it was hard to read. I was constantly wincing. I was annoyed by the author's device of putting an inner monologue for the characters in italics. Someone compared this book to Garcia Marquez's Love in the Time of Cholera. No no no not even close! I'll be more careful purchasing inexpensive Kindle books.
February 3, 2013
If I didn't give my own book 5 stars I'd feel as if I was Chris Klein in Election voting for Reese Witherspoon!
Many thanks to all those who have read and rated the book. I am truly honored. If you want to be put on a mailing list for the sequel please go to www.ngosborne.com
Many thanks to all those who have read and rated the book. I am truly honored. If you want to be put on a mailing list for the sequel please go to www.ngosborne.com
January 27, 2013
This is by far one of the best books I've read in a long time. A very touching story of a young refugee girl whose life is suddenly changed. Faced with three possible outcomes, the story keeps the reader in suspense as the it unfolds. I could not put this book down and read it in two days!
December 22, 2017
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
June 3, 2019
In love!
If you’re into Historical Romance, this is the book for you. Whilst the basis of this book is romance, there is so much more to this story.
If you’re into Historical Romance, this is the book for you. Whilst the basis of this book is romance, there is so much more to this story.
July 17, 2014
More reviews available at my blog, Beauty and the Bookworm.
This book was a complicated one for me, because I really liked the overall story, but I still had some issues with it that definitely got in the way of the reading experience. The plot follows three main characters: Charlie, an American who has moved to Peshawar, Pakistan to work for a company called Mine Aware that hopes to demine villages and fields in Afghanistan; Noor, an Afghan refugee who teaches at a girl's school and hopes to get a scholarship to study abroad; and Tariq, Noor's older brother and a member of the mujadhideen, who were people fighting to free Afghanistan from Soviet/Russian control during the Cold War and its aftermath. These three are supported by characters such as Noor's father, Charlie's assistant, an American CIA operative, and a Dutch administrator hoping to climb the "aid" career ladder. There are two major plots at play: one revolves around Charlie and Noor and their relationship (or lack thereof) and the other revolves around Tariq, who promises a Saudi prince that he can marry Noor, only to find that she had fled his grasp, at which point he begins to hunt her down to fulfill his promise and advance his own interests. I thought the plots worked together wonderfully, and I really loved Noor's reluctance to be interested in Charlie, because she wants a life of her own, not to be rescued by someone. She seeks shelter with him reluctantly, and their relationship has what seems like a natural growth from conflict to affection, and Noor shelters some very real doubts about it the whole time, which I can't imagine any woman in her position wouldn't shelter. As for Charlie, he grows immensely during his time in Peshawar and Afghanistan, both professionally and personally, and I thought it was handled very well--though I did have to wonder where he was getting all the money (stacks of hundred dollar bills) that he was throwing around!
Also, I loved how this book treated the use of the burqa. While burqas are commonly seen as a sign of repression here in the US, Osborne used them fabulously in his story telling. While, for some women in his narrative, burqas are a symbol of oppression and the control of women by men, for others they represent safety. When Noor is hiding from her brother, she adopts wearing a burqa in the streets and is amazed at how invisible it makes her and how it enables her to go about her life without harassment, and consequently she doesn't revile it--and Noor is a huge believer of equality between men and women. I think allowing such a strong, feminist character to find safety in the use of a burqa (that she adopted via her own choice, not someone else's, albeit not for religious reasons) was a great choice on Osborne's part.
But, like I said, I still had some issues with the book.
First, it needs a good line editor. There are tons of places with misplaced (or, more frequently, missing) commas. Now, I am a huge fan of the comma, and am probably prone to overusing them, but there were definitely places were a comma was grammatically necessary and was missing. Also prevalent were a slew of instances in which a question mark should have been replaced with a period and vice versa, because the punctuation used did not actually match the sentence it was attached to. Also, there were several long stretches of dialogue with no tags such as "said" used, which normally wouldn't be an issue...except Osborne starts new paragraphs rather arbitrarily, so sometimes keeping track of who was talking was difficult because I wasn't sure if the speaker had actually changed or if it was just a new paragraph with the same speaker.
Second, I had an issue with the characterization of Elma. I can't say too much about this without spoilers, but while Elma is originally made out to be a career woman who will sleep her way to the top if necessary, the majority of the narrative built up her softer side. She was definitely determined to advance herself, but she was still a real thinking, feeling person. I felt like this all changed at the end of the book, and was truly appalled at how easily she lost that humanity.
And, third and last, I don't think this needed to be a series. I think some of the subplots could probably have been cut out, and the narrative streamlined a bit more in order to allow it to become one book instead of multiples. I might pick up the next one (I'm not entirely sure how many there are, honestly) but I'm not sure at this point. If I do, I hope that it's better structured and edited than this first volume. However, overall I think the story was a solid one, and I would recommend this to anyone with the patience to wade through its flaws for the gem at their center.
This book was a complicated one for me, because I really liked the overall story, but I still had some issues with it that definitely got in the way of the reading experience. The plot follows three main characters: Charlie, an American who has moved to Peshawar, Pakistan to work for a company called Mine Aware that hopes to demine villages and fields in Afghanistan; Noor, an Afghan refugee who teaches at a girl's school and hopes to get a scholarship to study abroad; and Tariq, Noor's older brother and a member of the mujadhideen, who were people fighting to free Afghanistan from Soviet/Russian control during the Cold War and its aftermath. These three are supported by characters such as Noor's father, Charlie's assistant, an American CIA operative, and a Dutch administrator hoping to climb the "aid" career ladder. There are two major plots at play: one revolves around Charlie and Noor and their relationship (or lack thereof) and the other revolves around Tariq, who promises a Saudi prince that he can marry Noor, only to find that she had fled his grasp, at which point he begins to hunt her down to fulfill his promise and advance his own interests. I thought the plots worked together wonderfully, and I really loved Noor's reluctance to be interested in Charlie, because she wants a life of her own, not to be rescued by someone. She seeks shelter with him reluctantly, and their relationship has what seems like a natural growth from conflict to affection, and Noor shelters some very real doubts about it the whole time, which I can't imagine any woman in her position wouldn't shelter. As for Charlie, he grows immensely during his time in Peshawar and Afghanistan, both professionally and personally, and I thought it was handled very well--though I did have to wonder where he was getting all the money (stacks of hundred dollar bills) that he was throwing around!
Also, I loved how this book treated the use of the burqa. While burqas are commonly seen as a sign of repression here in the US, Osborne used them fabulously in his story telling. While, for some women in his narrative, burqas are a symbol of oppression and the control of women by men, for others they represent safety. When Noor is hiding from her brother, she adopts wearing a burqa in the streets and is amazed at how invisible it makes her and how it enables her to go about her life without harassment, and consequently she doesn't revile it--and Noor is a huge believer of equality between men and women. I think allowing such a strong, feminist character to find safety in the use of a burqa (that she adopted via her own choice, not someone else's, albeit not for religious reasons) was a great choice on Osborne's part.
But, like I said, I still had some issues with the book.
First, it needs a good line editor. There are tons of places with misplaced (or, more frequently, missing) commas. Now, I am a huge fan of the comma, and am probably prone to overusing them, but there were definitely places were a comma was grammatically necessary and was missing. Also prevalent were a slew of instances in which a question mark should have been replaced with a period and vice versa, because the punctuation used did not actually match the sentence it was attached to. Also, there were several long stretches of dialogue with no tags such as "said" used, which normally wouldn't be an issue...except Osborne starts new paragraphs rather arbitrarily, so sometimes keeping track of who was talking was difficult because I wasn't sure if the speaker had actually changed or if it was just a new paragraph with the same speaker.
Second, I had an issue with the characterization of Elma. I can't say too much about this without spoilers, but while Elma is originally made out to be a career woman who will sleep her way to the top if necessary, the majority of the narrative built up her softer side. She was definitely determined to advance herself, but she was still a real thinking, feeling person. I felt like this all changed at the end of the book, and was truly appalled at how easily she lost that humanity.
And, third and last, I don't think this needed to be a series. I think some of the subplots could probably have been cut out, and the narrative streamlined a bit more in order to allow it to become one book instead of multiples. I might pick up the next one (I'm not entirely sure how many there are, honestly) but I'm not sure at this point. If I do, I hope that it's better structured and edited than this first volume. However, overall I think the story was a solid one, and I would recommend this to anyone with the patience to wade through its flaws for the gem at their center.
Read
November 27, 2012REFUGE is N.G. Osborne’s debut novel about an impossible love between a man and a woman from vastly different circumstances. Yet despite the odds they meet and fall in love. And, of course, obstacles abound to prevent them from the one thing they want most… each other.
It’s a familiar scenario we all love. However, this is a not a novel about a vampire and a human, or a dystopian world of a distant future. This story takes place in our world… in Pakistan circa 1991 and is about the unlikely and very dangerous love between a young American, Charlie, and a young headstrong Afghan refugee, Noor.
----------------------------------------------------------
Read the Amazon description below:
"On a dusty, sweltering night, Noor Khan, a beautiful, headstrong Afghan refugee, comes face-to-face with Charlie Matthews, a brash, young American aid worker. To Noor’s fury, Charlie breaks every cultural norm and pursues her. She wants nothing to do with him: her sole aim in life is to earn an overseas scholarship so she can escape the miseries of the refugee camps.
"However when Noor’s brother threatens to marry her off, she is forced to seek refuge in Charlie’s home, of all places, and suddenly everything Noor believes in is put into question.
Set in the mystical and seething city of Peshawar, where no one is without an agenda and few can be trusted, Refuge is a timeless and unforgettable love story about the struggle for love and purpose in a cruel and cynical world."
----------------------------------------------------------
It sounds exotic and beautiful yet I must warn you, N.G. (Nick) Osborne does not shy away from the realities of the world we live in. You will explore a part of the world you will wish you could change instantly. Where horrific atrocities against women are commonplace, living conditions for many are no more than squalor, and the only hope for escape from it all is an education… if you are lucky enough (or even allowed) to pursue one.
Despite the dark setting and circumstances, Charlie and Noor’s love shines through even as it is put to impossible tests. REFUGE is the first book in what will be a three book series. And you may find the author’s name, Nick Osborne, slightly familiar as he was a producer on the Robert Pattinson movie, Remember Me.
***Fair warning for those sensitive to language and violence***
It’s a familiar scenario we all love. However, this is a not a novel about a vampire and a human, or a dystopian world of a distant future. This story takes place in our world… in Pakistan circa 1991 and is about the unlikely and very dangerous love between a young American, Charlie, and a young headstrong Afghan refugee, Noor.
----------------------------------------------------------
Read the Amazon description below:
"On a dusty, sweltering night, Noor Khan, a beautiful, headstrong Afghan refugee, comes face-to-face with Charlie Matthews, a brash, young American aid worker. To Noor’s fury, Charlie breaks every cultural norm and pursues her. She wants nothing to do with him: her sole aim in life is to earn an overseas scholarship so she can escape the miseries of the refugee camps.
"However when Noor’s brother threatens to marry her off, she is forced to seek refuge in Charlie’s home, of all places, and suddenly everything Noor believes in is put into question.
Set in the mystical and seething city of Peshawar, where no one is without an agenda and few can be trusted, Refuge is a timeless and unforgettable love story about the struggle for love and purpose in a cruel and cynical world."
----------------------------------------------------------
It sounds exotic and beautiful yet I must warn you, N.G. (Nick) Osborne does not shy away from the realities of the world we live in. You will explore a part of the world you will wish you could change instantly. Where horrific atrocities against women are commonplace, living conditions for many are no more than squalor, and the only hope for escape from it all is an education… if you are lucky enough (or even allowed) to pursue one.
Despite the dark setting and circumstances, Charlie and Noor’s love shines through even as it is put to impossible tests. REFUGE is the first book in what will be a three book series. And you may find the author’s name, Nick Osborne, slightly familiar as he was a producer on the Robert Pattinson movie, Remember Me.
***Fair warning for those sensitive to language and violence***
March 1, 2013
Where to begin?! I'm heartbroken, literally so heartbroken and angry I could cry. I genuinely feel very emotional right now. I'm devastated for Noor and I wish all kinds of sadistic cruelty on Tariq.
These characters are all very real. I adore Wali, he is by far my favourite character and I sincerely hope we haven't heard the last from him!!
Having seen other reviews that mentioned Tariq, I was desperately looking for redeeming qualities or reasons for what he has become - there are none. There is no reason on earth for him becoming true evil. It is not from love of his mother, it is not from grief. He is truly a terrible excuse for a human being, I feel he has been brainwashed to extremism but at the same time, I feel he is acutely aware of everything and would have made these choices regardless. What he did to his family was not brainwashing, it was greed. He knows that no one benefits from his actions but himself and that's perfectly fine, whether he finds excuses to hide behind or not.
I'm angry and heartbroken for Noor's father and the cook. I'm angry for Charlie. I feel nothing but hatred and confusion for Ivor and what exactly he's up to and hate how jealous and bitter Elma was, only to end up being convinced to destroy Noor's life - all to better herself or else to make herself feel better for being rejected.
I feel no choice but to give this five stars. I love books, I get immersed in books, but very rarely do I feel such anger or heartbreak, in fact I can only recall one other book that has similar. I am furious at what happened and I'm furious that it isn't far fetched. I'm truly heartbroken, both for these characters and the actual women put through similar things.
Never before have I not wanted to continue to read a book. I got to several stages here, where I put the book down and didn't want to pick it up again because I feared what was coming next. I got to around 88% and didn't want to keep reading because I didn't want it to see these characters be destroyed. Normally a book of this quality would take me a day or two, not over a week.
This is long, in depth and creates a very powerful and devastating read. I await the next instalment with some nerves and desperate hope that somehow things will work out, though right now that seems bleak. Incredible.
These characters are all very real. I adore Wali, he is by far my favourite character and I sincerely hope we haven't heard the last from him!!
Having seen other reviews that mentioned Tariq, I was desperately looking for redeeming qualities or reasons for what he has become - there are none. There is no reason on earth for him becoming true evil. It is not from love of his mother, it is not from grief. He is truly a terrible excuse for a human being, I feel he has been brainwashed to extremism but at the same time, I feel he is acutely aware of everything and would have made these choices regardless. What he did to his family was not brainwashing, it was greed. He knows that no one benefits from his actions but himself and that's perfectly fine, whether he finds excuses to hide behind or not.
I'm angry and heartbroken for Noor's father and the cook. I'm angry for Charlie. I feel nothing but hatred and confusion for Ivor and what exactly he's up to and hate how jealous and bitter Elma was, only to end up being convinced to destroy Noor's life - all to better herself or else to make herself feel better for being rejected.
I feel no choice but to give this five stars. I love books, I get immersed in books, but very rarely do I feel such anger or heartbreak, in fact I can only recall one other book that has similar. I am furious at what happened and I'm furious that it isn't far fetched. I'm truly heartbroken, both for these characters and the actual women put through similar things.
Never before have I not wanted to continue to read a book. I got to several stages here, where I put the book down and didn't want to pick it up again because I feared what was coming next. I got to around 88% and didn't want to keep reading because I didn't want it to see these characters be destroyed. Normally a book of this quality would take me a day or two, not over a week.
This is long, in depth and creates a very powerful and devastating read. I await the next instalment with some nerves and desperate hope that somehow things will work out, though right now that seems bleak. Incredible.
October 31, 2013
I've always shied away reading stories that would take place in a different war era or full of violence. This book had proved me wrong since my sister had recommended me this story and I loved how this book portrayed a pure and innocent love story between two people: Charlie (An American vet soldier) and Noor (An Afghani refugee who is also a teacher) who come from different worlds during the Gulf War era and how their relationship builds up when Noor and her family take refuge in Charlie's house.
I loved seeing the deep friendship between Charlie and Wali (who also shines as a supporting character and a confidant to Charlie) as well as the constant banter between them which provides a comic relief in the story. Noor's Dad, Aamir and her sister, Bushra were really positive characters and I loved how Noor's father always pushing Noor to get to know Charlie better and it was sad to see Aamir die by the hands of his own son and Noor's brother: Tariq. And Tariq.....I have nothing to say about him since he started the whole thing and only thought about himself since he lusting for power as well as after his young sister-in-law, Badra and without a conscience, he sold Noor (who is his own sister) to the Prince to be his new wife just to have Badra to himself and be more favourable to the Prince. I hope this man gets what he deserves after the horrible things he has done....
I've cried when Noor and Charlie were apart from each other and only communicated through letters. It was sad to see their love story come to a tragic end since the circumstances tore them apart as well as the people that interfered between them for their own gain. It was the first new story I read in 2013 and has become one of my favourite love stories of all time, so I'm happy that the story continues and I am rooting for Noor and Charlie to meet again and overcome the problems and circumstances that stands in their way as well as having their happily ever after.
I loved seeing the deep friendship between Charlie and Wali (who also shines as a supporting character and a confidant to Charlie) as well as the constant banter between them which provides a comic relief in the story. Noor's Dad, Aamir and her sister, Bushra were really positive characters and I loved how Noor's father always pushing Noor to get to know Charlie better and it was sad to see Aamir die by the hands of his own son and Noor's brother: Tariq. And Tariq.....I have nothing to say about him since he started the whole thing and only thought about himself since he lusting for power as well as after his young sister-in-law, Badra and without a conscience, he sold Noor (who is his own sister) to the Prince to be his new wife just to have Badra to himself and be more favourable to the Prince. I hope this man gets what he deserves after the horrible things he has done....
I've cried when Noor and Charlie were apart from each other and only communicated through letters. It was sad to see their love story come to a tragic end since the circumstances tore them apart as well as the people that interfered between them for their own gain. It was the first new story I read in 2013 and has become one of my favourite love stories of all time, so I'm happy that the story continues and I am rooting for Noor and Charlie to meet again and overcome the problems and circumstances that stands in their way as well as having their happily ever after.
January 29, 2013
Oh man, this book made me EMOTIONAL. And that's something for me, usually I just sit there like a psychopath without feeling anything for the characters.
This means that these characters had substance. And hell yes they did.
Noor, Noor, Noor. As someone who comes from an Asian family, I kind of do understand your plight. And Noor was so relatable to me. However sometimes I wanted to reach through into the book and start beating up the chauvinist pigs in there when Noor was too well mannered to do so.
The love interest wasn't some idiot who thinks he's better than everybody else and is soo great etc., he was just such a real guy to me. And I love that Noor didn't swoon into his arms right away. She laughed at him, and for good reason, because his intentions were not, um, jesus-y, for lack of better description, at first.
And the way they fell in love was so real.
And the way they were separated had me tearing up.
And the ending! Oh the ending, I could barely hold myself together.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next book. I hope that the author will put the second book up on Goodreads so I can mark it as to-read and will therefore not forget to read it, because I have no idea when it will be coming out and I really do not want to forget the series in the meantime. And I don't mean by that by it's a forgettable book, because it's not. I thought about it for days after, it was all I could think about. But I read so many books in a year that I'm afraid I WILL forget about it. D:
Wow, long spiel on nothing. Don't mind me here.
Anyway, long story short,
READ THIS BOOK!
This means that these characters had substance. And hell yes they did.
Noor, Noor, Noor. As someone who comes from an Asian family, I kind of do understand your plight. And Noor was so relatable to me. However sometimes I wanted to reach through into the book and start beating up the chauvinist pigs in there when Noor was too well mannered to do so.
The love interest wasn't some idiot who thinks he's better than everybody else and is soo great etc., he was just such a real guy to me. And I love that Noor didn't swoon into his arms right away. She laughed at him, and for good reason, because his intentions were not, um, jesus-y, for lack of better description, at first.
And the way they fell in love was so real.
And the way they were separated had me tearing up.
And the ending! Oh the ending, I could barely hold myself together.
I will be eagerly awaiting the next book. I hope that the author will put the second book up on Goodreads so I can mark it as to-read and will therefore not forget to read it, because I have no idea when it will be coming out and I really do not want to forget the series in the meantime. And I don't mean by that by it's a forgettable book, because it's not. I thought about it for days after, it was all I could think about. But I read so many books in a year that I'm afraid I WILL forget about it. D:
Wow, long spiel on nothing. Don't mind me here.
Anyway, long story short,
READ THIS BOOK!
August 10, 2016
After spending six months in Afghanistan, I began to have a greater appreciation for the people of Afghanistan, and gained an interest in their history, and what they have gone through during various occupations of their country. Although I'm not typically into romance books, the romantic tale weaved into this story was compelling, and now I need to get the next book, as this one leaves the reader on a cliffhanger.
From here on out, there may be spoilers. *************
Much of the story focuses on Noor, an Afghan refugee, living in a camp in Pakistan, due to the Russian invasion of Afghanistan. She loses her mother during the family's escape from Afghanistan. Her brother and father have opposite points of view. While both strong in their faith, the father praises Allah and prays ritually, but opposes the mistreatment of women. The brother has faith in Allah, but goes toward the fighting zealot side, believing that women should be treated more like property than people.
Another part of the story is Charlie, an American who comes to Pakistan to train Afghans on mine removal. He not only forms a close friendship with an Afghan, who loves American phrases, but also starts to fall in love with Noor. The biggest barrier to his love with Noor is their difference in faith with Noor being a devout Muslim, and Charlie having no belief system.
The book is full of conflict on several levels. Man vs. man, man vs. society, man vs. self.
From here on out, there may be spoilers. *************
Much of the story focuses on Noor, an Afghan refugee, living in a camp in Pakistan, due to the Russian invasion of Afghanistan. She loses her mother during the family's escape from Afghanistan. Her brother and father have opposite points of view. While both strong in their faith, the father praises Allah and prays ritually, but opposes the mistreatment of women. The brother has faith in Allah, but goes toward the fighting zealot side, believing that women should be treated more like property than people.
Another part of the story is Charlie, an American who comes to Pakistan to train Afghans on mine removal. He not only forms a close friendship with an Afghan, who loves American phrases, but also starts to fall in love with Noor. The biggest barrier to his love with Noor is their difference in faith with Noor being a devout Muslim, and Charlie having no belief system.
The book is full of conflict on several levels. Man vs. man, man vs. society, man vs. self.
June 6, 2013
This story is so captivating because there is so much deceit and every character is so damn self servant except for Charlie and Bushra. Once you allow yourself to hope and dream along with Noor, the whole damn book goes to hell! The bad guys make there presence known and it just FREAKIN SUCKS!
I don't think I've ever been so infuriated by charcters before.
I think it is because the subject matter is so real and the consequences are so dire.
Noor is everything a heroine should be: intelligent, slow to trust, easy to love, filled with desire to learn and do more, combantant with societal norms that place women at a HUGE disadvantage, and a need to put others first. I just enjoyed her normalcy. She wanted simple things and had to fight tooth and nail to even be heard. Just the chance to be heard was so much to hope for.
Charlie hears her, and he's not perfect, but he wants to be with Noor and help her wherever he can. He's honest, determined, and full of youthful optimism. How can you not love them both. I can't wait for the next book. I hope Elma, Ivor, and Tariq all die slow excrutiatingly painful deaths(it's the only way I'll ever sleep peacefully after book 1). READ ON!
I don't think I've ever been so infuriated by charcters before.
I think it is because the subject matter is so real and the consequences are so dire.
Noor is everything a heroine should be: intelligent, slow to trust, easy to love, filled with desire to learn and do more, combantant with societal norms that place women at a HUGE disadvantage, and a need to put others first. I just enjoyed her normalcy. She wanted simple things and had to fight tooth and nail to even be heard. Just the chance to be heard was so much to hope for.
Charlie hears her, and he's not perfect, but he wants to be with Noor and help her wherever he can. He's honest, determined, and full of youthful optimism. How can you not love them both. I can't wait for the next book. I hope Elma, Ivor, and Tariq all die slow excrutiatingly painful deaths(it's the only way I'll ever sleep peacefully after book 1). READ ON!
April 18, 2014
Absolutely refreshing! I haven't read a book quite like this one 'cause I obviously haven't read books like Love in the Time of Cholera and books by Khaled Hosseini, which is a pretty sad fact right there (But I PROMISE to start reading more mature novels from now on, I've really been missing out). I love how poetic Osbourne writes and his vivid description of Pakistan, its beauty as well as its horrors, took me across the world and showed me real life for Middle Eastern women in 1991. As someone who considers herself as someone along the lines of a feminist, this book shows great insight on the pains and ordeals of real women in places where gender equity has never been fully considered. I feel pain and remorse for women who are solely belittled for being nothing but a woman, objectified, and treated as nothing more than a marriage prospect. I feel for Noor. We have so many similarities it's crazy. I mean, you go girl! I learned a lot about Islam, which was cool. A free lesson on the Muslim world. Plus there's nothing quite like forbidden romance. :) Rooting for Charlie and Noor and am sooooo excited to read Resilience.
November 22, 2012
Bei diesem Buch war schon nach wenigen Seiten klar, dass es eine 5 Sterne Bewertung bekommen wird. Das lag vor allem an der Schreibweise des Autors, denn die ist fesselnd, bildhaft und ... einfach gut, man kann es nicht anders sagen!
Aber auch der Rest hat mich begeistert: Die Stadt Peschawar als Schauplatz, die gut ausgearbeiteten Charaktere allen voran Charlie und Noor und die durchaus realistische Handlung. Das Buch gibt dem Leser einen kleinen Einblick in eine Welt, die man sonst nur aus den Nachrichten kennt. Die Liebe zwischen Charlie und Noor entwickelt sich langsam, nicht zu überstürzt und driftet an keiner Stelle ins Kitschige ab. Besonders gefallen hat mir außerdem die Entwicklung des zweiten Pärchens, welches ich an dieser Stelle natürlich nicht verraten werde. Ich kann 'Refuge' nur wärmstens empfehlen, es sticht auf jeden Fall aus der Masse der Bücher heraus und wird mir noch lange in Erinnerung bleiben. Vielen Dank für ein wunderbares Leseerlebnis und ich freue mich schon auf die Fortsetzung!
Aber auch der Rest hat mich begeistert: Die Stadt Peschawar als Schauplatz, die gut ausgearbeiteten Charaktere allen voran Charlie und Noor und die durchaus realistische Handlung. Das Buch gibt dem Leser einen kleinen Einblick in eine Welt, die man sonst nur aus den Nachrichten kennt. Die Liebe zwischen Charlie und Noor entwickelt sich langsam, nicht zu überstürzt und driftet an keiner Stelle ins Kitschige ab. Besonders gefallen hat mir außerdem die Entwicklung des zweiten Pärchens, welches ich an dieser Stelle natürlich nicht verraten werde. Ich kann 'Refuge' nur wärmstens empfehlen, es sticht auf jeden Fall aus der Masse der Bücher heraus und wird mir noch lange in Erinnerung bleiben. Vielen Dank für ein wunderbares Leseerlebnis und ich freue mich schon auf die Fortsetzung!
December 26, 2012
OMG...this book was AMAZING! I read it in less than 2 days...I am sure I would of finished it in one day if not for work getting in the middle of my reading!
I loved Charlie and Noors story. I love books that make me cry and this book truly made me cry. It is a novel about a forbidden love between two people from different cultures. From the very beginning the story caught my attention and it was very hard to put the book down. The book has a lot of characters and I love how the author describes each character and we get to know them all. Noor and Charlie are the main focus of the book but the way the other characters are brought into the book, it makes you want to read more because it all comes together. This book made me laugh and cry. There was a chapter in the book where it got me so upset, I almost threw the book. I love books that give me all these kinds of emotions, you know the author does a good job when others experience these emotions.
I cannot wait for book 2 and see what happens to Charlie and Noor and the other characters.
I loved Charlie and Noors story. I love books that make me cry and this book truly made me cry. It is a novel about a forbidden love between two people from different cultures. From the very beginning the story caught my attention and it was very hard to put the book down. The book has a lot of characters and I love how the author describes each character and we get to know them all. Noor and Charlie are the main focus of the book but the way the other characters are brought into the book, it makes you want to read more because it all comes together. This book made me laugh and cry. There was a chapter in the book where it got me so upset, I almost threw the book. I love books that give me all these kinds of emotions, you know the author does a good job when others experience these emotions.
I cannot wait for book 2 and see what happens to Charlie and Noor and the other characters.
February 8, 2013
I really liked this book and loved the story of Noor and Charlie but there were also moments I felt completely irritated. But what book doesn't have those moments, right? I felt that when something interesting was happening the chapter would end and another one would start from the perspective of a different, but somewhat annoying, character and completely lose my initial interest. I found those chapters to be somewhat painful to read, but i did so just wanting to get back to Noor or Charlie. And although I really liked their love story their interactions with one another had a few moments of cliches and painful dialogue. Non the less I found myself constantly rooting for them.
But here's my predicament, the ending. I disliked the ending so much that i wanted to knock off a star or even two... but for now I wont. Just cause it was a bad ending doesn't mean it was a bad ending. It was just so disheartening that I was angry with it. The 2nd installment of this book will ultimately be the deciding factor in whether or not I loved it. Until then, to be concluded... :/
But here's my predicament, the ending. I disliked the ending so much that i wanted to knock off a star or even two... but for now I wont. Just cause it was a bad ending doesn't mean it was a bad ending. It was just so disheartening that I was angry with it. The 2nd installment of this book will ultimately be the deciding factor in whether or not I loved it. Until then, to be concluded... :/
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