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The Night Letters
For five years, Australian doctor Sofia Raso has lived in Kabul’s vibrant Shaahir Square, working with Dr Jabril Aziz to support the local women. She knows that living peacefully in Kabul requires following two simple rules: keep a low profile; and keep out of local affairs.
Yet when threatening night letters from the Taliban taunt the town, and young boys disappear from Jamal Mina, Kabul’s largest slum, Sofia can no longer remain silent. While the square is encased by fear, an elegant former warlord proves an unlikely ally, and a former lover re-emerges with a warning. As the search for the boys intensifies, and Sofia feels herself being drawn back into a love affair she thought had ended, it soon becomes clear that answers will bring a heavy price.
Gripping and evocative, The Night Letters takes you to the heart of Kabul in a story of secrets, friendship and love in all its imperfect guises.
‘Full of wonderful prose and with a stunning sense of place, The Night Letters is a story of love, betrayal, corruption and friendship. It made me weep and cheer.’ – Michael Robotham, author of When She Was Good
‘A bittersweet and astonishingly detailed narration of both the simplicity and complexity of life in Afghanistan. What I loved about the book is that it does not represent Afghan women as passive and docile, but you will learn about their stories of bravery, struggles, and persistence.’ – Aalam Gul Farhad
Yet when threatening night letters from the Taliban taunt the town, and young boys disappear from Jamal Mina, Kabul’s largest slum, Sofia can no longer remain silent. While the square is encased by fear, an elegant former warlord proves an unlikely ally, and a former lover re-emerges with a warning. As the search for the boys intensifies, and Sofia feels herself being drawn back into a love affair she thought had ended, it soon becomes clear that answers will bring a heavy price.
Gripping and evocative, The Night Letters takes you to the heart of Kabul in a story of secrets, friendship and love in all its imperfect guises.
‘Full of wonderful prose and with a stunning sense of place, The Night Letters is a story of love, betrayal, corruption and friendship. It made me weep and cheer.’ – Michael Robotham, author of When She Was Good
‘A bittersweet and astonishingly detailed narration of both the simplicity and complexity of life in Afghanistan. What I loved about the book is that it does not represent Afghan women as passive and docile, but you will learn about their stories of bravery, struggles, and persistence.’ – Aalam Gul Farhad
364 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2020
11 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 15, 2021
3.5★ For the most part I really enjoyed it, but there were some problems.
I’m here to assess what the country’s health requirements might be in light of the imminent US and Western troop withdrawals. With the suspected deterioration of the security situation and the very real possibility that the Taliban will regain power, a lot of aid agencies will be pulling out, so the UN needs to know how best it can support the indigenous and grassroots organisations still here on the ground. - Dr Daniel Abiteboul, explaining to Dr Sofia Raso why he's back in Kabul, some five years after their paths last crossed.
Of course, this was written before the Taliban walked back in through the front door, but it goes to show that the world should not have been the least bit surprised when it happened. I'd already picked this for my 2021 personal challenge list, and after seeing Afghanistan constantly in the news these past few weeks, I prioritised it in my reading. Denise Leith is an expert on Middle Eastern politics, but she readily admits never having set foot in Afghanistan (although she does have strong and lengthy ties with a group of Afghan writers). Regardless, she does a pretty convincing job of transporting the reader to the streets of Kabul, and handles a number of cultural and/or political issues with sensitivity.
Dr Sofia Raso initially relocated from Sydney to Kabul on a 1 year contract, to work as a GP in a local practice, servicing Kabul locals around the neighbourhood of historic Shaahir Square. To her own surprise as much as anyone else's, she's made a life for herself there and is into her sixth year. She's done some outreach work in remote villages, spends a day each week volunteering in the slums on Kabul's mountainous fringe, and also visits Kandahar regularly to train a group of village midwife volunteers. But as the western forces begin to withdraw, both the political and security climate are becoming increasingly tense. And then the night letters begin appearing on the gates of private residences around Shaahir Square, causing everyone to reflect on their behaviours, motives and relationships, for fear of attracting the ire of the Taliban.
I really liked the story, the setting and the characterisation, but overall I'd have to say it was a little uneven. A problem with the timeline (regarding the letters) niggled increasingly in the second half of the book, to the point where it was actually distracting me and interrupting the flow. Nevertheless, I'm happy to have read it, and hope to see this author continue writing fiction in the future.
I’m here to assess what the country’s health requirements might be in light of the imminent US and Western troop withdrawals. With the suspected deterioration of the security situation and the very real possibility that the Taliban will regain power, a lot of aid agencies will be pulling out, so the UN needs to know how best it can support the indigenous and grassroots organisations still here on the ground. - Dr Daniel Abiteboul, explaining to Dr Sofia Raso why he's back in Kabul, some five years after their paths last crossed.
Of course, this was written before the Taliban walked back in through the front door, but it goes to show that the world should not have been the least bit surprised when it happened. I'd already picked this for my 2021 personal challenge list, and after seeing Afghanistan constantly in the news these past few weeks, I prioritised it in my reading. Denise Leith is an expert on Middle Eastern politics, but she readily admits never having set foot in Afghanistan (although she does have strong and lengthy ties with a group of Afghan writers). Regardless, she does a pretty convincing job of transporting the reader to the streets of Kabul, and handles a number of cultural and/or political issues with sensitivity.
Dr Sofia Raso initially relocated from Sydney to Kabul on a 1 year contract, to work as a GP in a local practice, servicing Kabul locals around the neighbourhood of historic Shaahir Square. To her own surprise as much as anyone else's, she's made a life for herself there and is into her sixth year. She's done some outreach work in remote villages, spends a day each week volunteering in the slums on Kabul's mountainous fringe, and also visits Kandahar regularly to train a group of village midwife volunteers. But as the western forces begin to withdraw, both the political and security climate are becoming increasingly tense. And then the night letters begin appearing on the gates of private residences around Shaahir Square, causing everyone to reflect on their behaviours, motives and relationships, for fear of attracting the ire of the Taliban.
I really liked the story, the setting and the characterisation, but overall I'd have to say it was a little uneven. A problem with the timeline (regarding the letters) niggled increasingly in the second half of the book, to the point where it was actually distracting me and interrupting the flow. Nevertheless, I'm happy to have read it, and hope to see this author continue writing fiction in the future.
October 17, 2020
Australian Doctor Sofia Raso is accepted to work in a medical practice in Kabul. After 5 years working there she is much loved by the local Afghanistani people and she now calls Afghanistan home. Sofia has come to accept many of the cultural differences but when young boys start disappearing from Kabul’s slums, to use a sex slaves to the rich and powerful, she knows she can no longer keep silent.
The Night Letters is told through a few main characters all residing or working in Shaahir Square; Omar, an ageing shop owner, who has had many wives but still laments over losing the love of his life. Iman, a young girl who works in the doctors’ office, is the face of change for women in Afghanistan. Sofia Raso, the Australian doctor who has worked her way into the hearts of the people of Shaahir Square. Dr Jabril Aziz, born in Afghanistan but educated in America resulting in a blending of cultural ideas. Behnaz, the wife of Chief of Police, Wasim, is old enough to remember a time before Taliban rule and grieves for how much they have lost. Daniel Abiteboul, a UN aide worker is introduced as a love interest for Sofia but their romance is very much understated.
Through these main characters, and a few other minor characters, Denis Leith gives the reader a broad spectrum of the citizens of Afghanistan. We get to see their thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams and also their despair as they live in fear of reprisal from the Taliban.
There are two mysteries running through the story. One being the night letters being left at the door of both Dr Jabil and Chief Wasim’s house advising them to warn their friend to stop or they will be in danger, and also the mystery of the young boys’ disappearing and who was behind this.
There is quite a lot of humour surrounding the night letters and all the gossip it creates in the square with everyone thinking they are “the friend” that needs to stop doing whatever. This humour really lightens up what could otherwise be a sad story.
I loved the descriptions of the square and the shops, the shop owners and their interactions which brought the whole scene alive whilst I was reading.
I don’t know much about Afghanistan however the author’s fondness for this country and its people shone through in her words.
Filled with strong women The Night Letters is a poignant story with characters that will touch your heart and leave you wanting more.
The Night Letters is told through a few main characters all residing or working in Shaahir Square; Omar, an ageing shop owner, who has had many wives but still laments over losing the love of his life. Iman, a young girl who works in the doctors’ office, is the face of change for women in Afghanistan. Sofia Raso, the Australian doctor who has worked her way into the hearts of the people of Shaahir Square. Dr Jabril Aziz, born in Afghanistan but educated in America resulting in a blending of cultural ideas. Behnaz, the wife of Chief of Police, Wasim, is old enough to remember a time before Taliban rule and grieves for how much they have lost. Daniel Abiteboul, a UN aide worker is introduced as a love interest for Sofia but their romance is very much understated.
Through these main characters, and a few other minor characters, Denis Leith gives the reader a broad spectrum of the citizens of Afghanistan. We get to see their thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams and also their despair as they live in fear of reprisal from the Taliban.
There are two mysteries running through the story. One being the night letters being left at the door of both Dr Jabil and Chief Wasim’s house advising them to warn their friend to stop or they will be in danger, and also the mystery of the young boys’ disappearing and who was behind this.
There is quite a lot of humour surrounding the night letters and all the gossip it creates in the square with everyone thinking they are “the friend” that needs to stop doing whatever. This humour really lightens up what could otherwise be a sad story.
I loved the descriptions of the square and the shops, the shop owners and their interactions which brought the whole scene alive whilst I was reading.
I don’t know much about Afghanistan however the author’s fondness for this country and its people shone through in her words.
Filled with strong women The Night Letters is a poignant story with characters that will touch your heart and leave you wanting more.
October 14, 2020
A captivating novel, Denise Leith draws on her professional and personal experience in The Night Letters, which she dedicates to the women of the the Afghan Women Writing Project.
In need of a challenge, Australian doctor Sofia Rasa accepts a position in the practice of Dr. Jabril Aziz to treat the women of Kabul. She is accommodated in Shaahir Square, where her presence is first met with suspicion, but slowly earns the respect of both her neighbours and her patients, in part by by keeping a low profile, and staying out of local affairs.
Five years after the original expiry of her year long contract, Sofia considers Shaahir Square home, but with the recent disappearances of young boys from the nearby slums of Jamal Mina, she’s increasingly uncomfortable with staying silent. Her interest in the plight of the bachi bazi unintentionally upsets the peace of the Square when some of the residents discover cryptic letters of warning pinned to their door.
The Night Letters is set primarily in Kabul, a city still bearing the scars of the Afghanistan war and the harsh occupation of the Taliban. It’s a very different place from the Australian suburbs, but one Sofia has always felt drawn to. Leith’s descriptions of Shaahir Square are vivid, the space hosts a mix of stores and residences, and its insular construction provides those within it the illusion of safety amid the regular dangers of Kabul.
The people who populate the Square are an interesting group, a microcosm of sorts that in some aspects represents wider Afghan society. The main personalities are Sofia, Jabril and Behnaz, Sofia’s landlady and the wife of the Chief of Police, but the daily activities of other residents and storekeepers, and the relationships between them, are an important element of the story.
Though an obvious outsider with her red hair, Sofia earns the respect of the Square. Jabril and his wife treat her like a daughter, and despite Behnaz’s prickly attitude she too cares for Sofia. As a doctor, Sofia’s patients trust her with both their health and their personal problems, and she also travels outside the Square, assisting at clinics in the slums of Jamal Mina and running a midwife training program in Kandahar. It’s during one of these trips during her first year in Afghanistan that Sofia meets Daniel, an American aide worker.
There are two mystery elements in the novel, both well-plotted. The first involves the anonymous typewritten notes found pinned to the doors of the Dr Jabril and the home of the Chief of Police, where Sofia also resides, in Shaahir Square. When a note is discovered by one of the Square’s residents, warning the reader ‘to tell their friend to stop’, and shares it with some of the others, the vague message worries everyone.
Somewhat similar to the ‘night letters’ the Taliban used, there are concerns they are under surveillance by an extremist, and several modify their behaviour in case they are ‘the friend’.
The second mystery involves the whereabouts of the missing boys, not only who may be responsible for their disappearance, but also who is actively derailing any investigation. It becomes clear that the boys are being taken to serve as bachi bazi - which translates as ‘boy play’ and refers to young boys abducted and sold to powerful and wealthy men and used for entertainment and sex. When Sofia becomes involved in the issue she crosses a corrupt politician who has the power to force her from Afghanistan.
With its lovely prose, rich storyline, and interesting characters, The Night Letters Is a wonderful novel, and one I’m happy to recommend.
In need of a challenge, Australian doctor Sofia Rasa accepts a position in the practice of Dr. Jabril Aziz to treat the women of Kabul. She is accommodated in Shaahir Square, where her presence is first met with suspicion, but slowly earns the respect of both her neighbours and her patients, in part by by keeping a low profile, and staying out of local affairs.
Five years after the original expiry of her year long contract, Sofia considers Shaahir Square home, but with the recent disappearances of young boys from the nearby slums of Jamal Mina, she’s increasingly uncomfortable with staying silent. Her interest in the plight of the bachi bazi unintentionally upsets the peace of the Square when some of the residents discover cryptic letters of warning pinned to their door.
The Night Letters is set primarily in Kabul, a city still bearing the scars of the Afghanistan war and the harsh occupation of the Taliban. It’s a very different place from the Australian suburbs, but one Sofia has always felt drawn to. Leith’s descriptions of Shaahir Square are vivid, the space hosts a mix of stores and residences, and its insular construction provides those within it the illusion of safety amid the regular dangers of Kabul.
The people who populate the Square are an interesting group, a microcosm of sorts that in some aspects represents wider Afghan society. The main personalities are Sofia, Jabril and Behnaz, Sofia’s landlady and the wife of the Chief of Police, but the daily activities of other residents and storekeepers, and the relationships between them, are an important element of the story.
Though an obvious outsider with her red hair, Sofia earns the respect of the Square. Jabril and his wife treat her like a daughter, and despite Behnaz’s prickly attitude she too cares for Sofia. As a doctor, Sofia’s patients trust her with both their health and their personal problems, and she also travels outside the Square, assisting at clinics in the slums of Jamal Mina and running a midwife training program in Kandahar. It’s during one of these trips during her first year in Afghanistan that Sofia meets Daniel, an American aide worker.
There are two mystery elements in the novel, both well-plotted. The first involves the anonymous typewritten notes found pinned to the doors of the Dr Jabril and the home of the Chief of Police, where Sofia also resides, in Shaahir Square. When a note is discovered by one of the Square’s residents, warning the reader ‘to tell their friend to stop’, and shares it with some of the others, the vague message worries everyone.
Somewhat similar to the ‘night letters’ the Taliban used, there are concerns they are under surveillance by an extremist, and several modify their behaviour in case they are ‘the friend’.
The second mystery involves the whereabouts of the missing boys, not only who may be responsible for their disappearance, but also who is actively derailing any investigation. It becomes clear that the boys are being taken to serve as bachi bazi - which translates as ‘boy play’ and refers to young boys abducted and sold to powerful and wealthy men and used for entertainment and sex. When Sofia becomes involved in the issue she crosses a corrupt politician who has the power to force her from Afghanistan.
With its lovely prose, rich storyline, and interesting characters, The Night Letters Is a wonderful novel, and one I’m happy to recommend.
March 28, 2021
I was slow to get into this book which was chosen for me by a librarian and wasn't sure if I wanted to continue. But I warmed to it and was quite taken with it by the end.
The complications of life in Afghanistan are rendered in a low-key way, stressing the limitations for a willing and caring foreigner who must finally step back and let the Afghans move their society forward in their own good time. It was sensitively handled and came from a clear affection for the Afghan people and concern for their welfare.
The book fosters in its readers a love of the people and the superb natural beauty of this poor beleaguered country. Definitely worth a read.
The complications of life in Afghanistan are rendered in a low-key way, stressing the limitations for a willing and caring foreigner who must finally step back and let the Afghans move their society forward in their own good time. It was sensitively handled and came from a clear affection for the Afghan people and concern for their welfare.
The book fosters in its readers a love of the people and the superb natural beauty of this poor beleaguered country. Definitely worth a read.
October 31, 2020
Australian doctor Sofia has lived and worked in Kabul for five years primarily treating the local women and acting as a sounding board for them. You can read the storyline in the back cover blurb - good people working under an oppressive system makes for a compelling plot. What stood out for me were the rich characterisations, the quiet determined stoicism of the Afghan women, some beautiful descriptive passages and contemplations of the nature of life and love as events beyond our control play their parts. This book is a winner.
April 5, 2021
Denise Leith's professional experience and the research she has done into the lives of Afghan women makes this book of fiction very real.
The story of Australian doctor Sofia Raso living for five years in Kabul in Shaarhir Square, and the detail of her life there really gives you insight into the lives of the people who live there and especially the strong brave women. Also the pressures the overseas aid workers are under in understanding the complexity of life in Afghanistan and the strain on their relationships. A story of love, friendship and betrayal, which was gripping and so very enjoyable.
The story of Australian doctor Sofia Raso living for five years in Kabul in Shaarhir Square, and the detail of her life there really gives you insight into the lives of the people who live there and especially the strong brave women. Also the pressures the overseas aid workers are under in understanding the complexity of life in Afghanistan and the strain on their relationships. A story of love, friendship and betrayal, which was gripping and so very enjoyable.
January 1, 2023
Not the usual subject matter I go for, but having met the author I thought I would give it a go. What a wonderful book, very insightful, interesting characters. Highly recommend.
February 3, 2021
I randomly picked up this book at the library and so glad that I did. How did I miss adding it to my reading list! I have always been interested in the history and culture of Afghanistan and this is definitely one of the best novels about post-Taliban Kabul that I have read.
The main character, Dr Sofia Rosa is an Australian doctor working in Kabul for five years has formed close bonds with her female patients - helping them both physically and empowering them spiritually. She has a lot to learn however about the boundaries imposed on foreigners in war-torn Afghanistan. The novel raises many questions about the power and corruption that is buried deep within the government and its agencies.
The Night Letters is a compelling read. Highly recommended.
The main character, Dr Sofia Rosa is an Australian doctor working in Kabul for five years has formed close bonds with her female patients - helping them both physically and empowering them spiritually. She has a lot to learn however about the boundaries imposed on foreigners in war-torn Afghanistan. The novel raises many questions about the power and corruption that is buried deep within the government and its agencies.
The Night Letters is a compelling read. Highly recommended.
January 2, 2021
This is a fascinating story about life in Kabul with the Taliban taking over again in Afghanistan, told through events in a square in the capital involving Sofia Rosa, an Australian doctor. A totally different life from ours here in Australia and very thought-provoking.
January 30, 2021
‘After five years of living in Afghanistan she was finding her silences harder to hold, and yet remain silent she did. The stakes were simply too high to do otherwise. Silent and invisible was what Sofia needed to be ... She might be living in Afghanistan but she would always remain an outsider ...’
This is the second novel in the past few weeks that has taken me to a place I have never been or knew little about (the other being Iraq in When the Apricots Bloom). I very much enjoyed Denise’s portrayal of life in Afghanistan for both the locals and expats. This is an intriguing story about life in Kabul when the Taliban took over Afghanistan as told mostly by Sofia Rosa, an Australian doctor living and working there. Having lived the expat life myself, I was most appreciative of how she captures the totally different lifestyle compared to my Western one.
‘Sofia wanted to experience more of life than ‘normal’, and now that she had there was no way she could ever step back into the ‘normal’ of Sydney.’
Sofia lives and works in Shaahir Square and develops life changing relationships with the local community and the women she is there to assist. The book does include some other points of view, however, Sofia’s contributions are obviously the strongest. The reader is given an honest and engaging window into life in Kabul under the Taliban from all points of view. Such an obviously oppressive system to live and work under and it is this that makes for a most compelling plot aside from what life is like on a day to day basis.
‘What sort of tenacity or desperation, she often wondered, forced people to build in such a place? Life was hard enough in the cities; in the country it could be soul-destroying. People aged quickly and died early in Afghanistan, but it was not always disease, childbirth, bad diet or even war that killed them. Sometimes it was just life.’
Although it was slow to start I became invested in many of the characters, particularly the Afghan women and their stoic determination - both young and old - to work for good. I have mixed feelings about the ending. On the one hand, one of the lead characters signing off for the novel as a whole was bittersweet. Yet on the other hand I did not feel that, after investing in the lives and the serious nature of some of the plot lines, there was enough of a satisfactory conclusion.
‘What you do with the women in the square is enough. It’s more than enough and we’re so grateful that you are doing this. We can’t change Afghanistan, Sofia. None of us can individually and certainly outsiders can’t.’
All up, however, I very much enjoyed my time spent in Kabul and the glimpse it provided into what truly is a whole other world. With a little romance, themes of protection of the young and vulnerable and a taste of life on the street it will be a book that I definitely recommend.
‘Without any doubt, the women of Afghanistan were marshalling their strength and gathering their resources and would one day be a force to be reckoned with.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
This is the second novel in the past few weeks that has taken me to a place I have never been or knew little about (the other being Iraq in When the Apricots Bloom). I very much enjoyed Denise’s portrayal of life in Afghanistan for both the locals and expats. This is an intriguing story about life in Kabul when the Taliban took over Afghanistan as told mostly by Sofia Rosa, an Australian doctor living and working there. Having lived the expat life myself, I was most appreciative of how she captures the totally different lifestyle compared to my Western one.
‘Sofia wanted to experience more of life than ‘normal’, and now that she had there was no way she could ever step back into the ‘normal’ of Sydney.’
Sofia lives and works in Shaahir Square and develops life changing relationships with the local community and the women she is there to assist. The book does include some other points of view, however, Sofia’s contributions are obviously the strongest. The reader is given an honest and engaging window into life in Kabul under the Taliban from all points of view. Such an obviously oppressive system to live and work under and it is this that makes for a most compelling plot aside from what life is like on a day to day basis.
‘What sort of tenacity or desperation, she often wondered, forced people to build in such a place? Life was hard enough in the cities; in the country it could be soul-destroying. People aged quickly and died early in Afghanistan, but it was not always disease, childbirth, bad diet or even war that killed them. Sometimes it was just life.’
Although it was slow to start I became invested in many of the characters, particularly the Afghan women and their stoic determination - both young and old - to work for good. I have mixed feelings about the ending. On the one hand, one of the lead characters signing off for the novel as a whole was bittersweet. Yet on the other hand I did not feel that, after investing in the lives and the serious nature of some of the plot lines, there was enough of a satisfactory conclusion.
‘What you do with the women in the square is enough. It’s more than enough and we’re so grateful that you are doing this. We can’t change Afghanistan, Sofia. None of us can individually and certainly outsiders can’t.’
All up, however, I very much enjoyed my time spent in Kabul and the glimpse it provided into what truly is a whole other world. With a little romance, themes of protection of the young and vulnerable and a taste of life on the street it will be a book that I definitely recommend.
‘Without any doubt, the women of Afghanistan were marshalling their strength and gathering their resources and would one day be a force to be reckoned with.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
August 4, 2021
This was a delightful wander through the life of a foreignor in a tiny section of Kabul. Sofia Raso is an Australian doctor who takes up a position caring for Afghan women in Shahiir Square in Kabul. She knows she is very different to the people who live there, but they take her into their hearts and she takes them into hers. She knows as a foreignor there are many things she cannot do or say, but eventually she decides to intervene and the fragile appearance of modern civility slides swiftly away, baring the dark heart of a warlord driven power structure at the heart of Afghani politics. I was really touched by this story and the inherent challenges of living in a place so wildly different from your culture of origin. Leith's powerful sympathy for Afghanis and their plight echoes strongly through this whole story.
October 22, 2020
Well, this turned out to be a fantastic read! It got off to a bit of a slow start and it took me a while to become invested in the story, but, by the end of it, the characters felt like friends and I was so moved by their stories—I even shed a few tears!
One of my favourite things about reading is that it can transport you to another time and place, and this book does exactly that. It’s rich in cultural details and offers a glimpse into everyday life in Afghanistan, a country I knew very little about prior to reading this. I love how Afghan women are portrayed in the story—not as oppressed and submissive, but as strong, hopeful and resilient. It’s a refreshing change from the stereotypes that dominate Western media.
DISCLAIMER: I received a free copy of this book from Ventura Press in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
One of my favourite things about reading is that it can transport you to another time and place, and this book does exactly that. It’s rich in cultural details and offers a glimpse into everyday life in Afghanistan, a country I knew very little about prior to reading this. I love how Afghan women are portrayed in the story—not as oppressed and submissive, but as strong, hopeful and resilient. It’s a refreshing change from the stereotypes that dominate Western media.
DISCLAIMER: I received a free copy of this book from Ventura Press in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 2, 2021
I have to admit, I was rapt when I heard that Denise Leith had written another book. Titled 'The Night Letters', it is a deeply enjoyable read. The story took me in, completely, from that first paragraph. By the end of the first chapter, I was there, in Shaahir Square, Kabul.
Denise Leith is a highly skilled story-teller. She not only creates beautiful prose, she also offers the reader authentic, richly detailed, fictional people, located in a space that I came to love.
As a reader, I was introduced to that tiny microcosm of Kabul life, so perfectly, from the first paragraph: 'The mountain peaks were silhouetted dark against the disappearing night as the morning call to prayer rang out across the ancient city. In a few minutes the sun would rise above the building, sending shards of light to splinter the icy peaks of the Hindu Kush before being reflected back in the windows of Kabul.'
I was 'in' by the end of the first paragraph, then read on, delighting in both her character outlines, and all I learned about Kabul along the way.
The first chapter … !
By the end of the second chapter, I had been introduced to most of the inhabitants of Shaahir Square, their habits, their style of dress, their family histories, something of their private lives, and a mysterious man, an unfinished relationship, was mentioned.
I was there, like a new arrival, taking my place in this new space. It was like traveling again.
I have read 'The Night Letters', twice more. Each time intending to write a review, wanting to share news of this delightful book, and each time I started over there was this beautiful feeling of returning to a place I adored.
I know it's simply a book but Denise Leith created a world that is easy to enter, and really hard to leave.
If you enjoy exploring other worlds, via skilfully developed characters, located in a place you come to know as if you were living there too, then this book is for you. It is one of my top five favorite books, especially when I need to travel someplace else while grounded.
I have no hesitation, at all, in highly recommending this book. And, in fact, if you enjoy this book, then I also highly recommend Denise Leith's previous book, 'What Remains'.
Just saying :-)
Denise Leith is a highly skilled story-teller. She not only creates beautiful prose, she also offers the reader authentic, richly detailed, fictional people, located in a space that I came to love.
As a reader, I was introduced to that tiny microcosm of Kabul life, so perfectly, from the first paragraph: 'The mountain peaks were silhouetted dark against the disappearing night as the morning call to prayer rang out across the ancient city. In a few minutes the sun would rise above the building, sending shards of light to splinter the icy peaks of the Hindu Kush before being reflected back in the windows of Kabul.'
I was 'in' by the end of the first paragraph, then read on, delighting in both her character outlines, and all I learned about Kabul along the way.
The first chapter … !
By the end of the second chapter, I had been introduced to most of the inhabitants of Shaahir Square, their habits, their style of dress, their family histories, something of their private lives, and a mysterious man, an unfinished relationship, was mentioned.
I was there, like a new arrival, taking my place in this new space. It was like traveling again.
I have read 'The Night Letters', twice more. Each time intending to write a review, wanting to share news of this delightful book, and each time I started over there was this beautiful feeling of returning to a place I adored.
I know it's simply a book but Denise Leith created a world that is easy to enter, and really hard to leave.
If you enjoy exploring other worlds, via skilfully developed characters, located in a place you come to know as if you were living there too, then this book is for you. It is one of my top five favorite books, especially when I need to travel someplace else while grounded.
I have no hesitation, at all, in highly recommending this book. And, in fact, if you enjoy this book, then I also highly recommend Denise Leith's previous book, 'What Remains'.
Just saying :-)
October 20, 2020
The Night Letters by Denise Leith is set in Afghanistan which is a first for me in terms of a location for a novel. The book centres on Australian doctor Sofia Raso who has been living and working in Shaahir Square in Kabul. Five years ago she was brought in by Dr Jabil Aziz to help care for the local women. The surgery is in the Square as is her apartment which is a part of the house belonging to the local police chief Wasim and his wife Behnaz.
Throughout the Square are a cast of locals such as Omar the old, ailing apothecary, Ahmad who sells a range of goods including "I Love Kabul" coffee mugs, Babur who operates the centuries old tea house and Imam the young receptionist at the surgery.
The story begins with a few key events. Sofia is visited by a former lover Daniel now working for the UN, several young boys go missing from a slum and so called "night letters" from the Taliban begin appearing on the gates of several residents in the Square. What follows is a gripping story where the quest to unravel the secret of the missing boys leads to increasing danger for Sofia. I won't say anymore for fear of spoilers!
While slow to start the story races forward in the second half. I think the start felt slow because the author meticulously introduces the characters which gives a real sense of who the people are and the landscape in which they live. The Square was vividly described and I have a vision of what it looks like in my mind.
The book was told in alternating POVs, though mainly from Sofia. This didn't always work - I much preferred Sofia's chapters and felt that Daniel's chapters in particular didn't flow as well. Where it was a success though was the final chapter which was told from the POV of Behnaz - having her have the final say in the story really left me with a bittersweet feeling which in this case was perfect. I also found that the theme of friendship was particularly well conveyed throughout. This was a definite strength.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It was so interesting to read a story set in the Middle East. Thank you @venturapress__ for sending a copy of this book my way.
Throughout the Square are a cast of locals such as Omar the old, ailing apothecary, Ahmad who sells a range of goods including "I Love Kabul" coffee mugs, Babur who operates the centuries old tea house and Imam the young receptionist at the surgery.
The story begins with a few key events. Sofia is visited by a former lover Daniel now working for the UN, several young boys go missing from a slum and so called "night letters" from the Taliban begin appearing on the gates of several residents in the Square. What follows is a gripping story where the quest to unravel the secret of the missing boys leads to increasing danger for Sofia. I won't say anymore for fear of spoilers!
While slow to start the story races forward in the second half. I think the start felt slow because the author meticulously introduces the characters which gives a real sense of who the people are and the landscape in which they live. The Square was vividly described and I have a vision of what it looks like in my mind.
The book was told in alternating POVs, though mainly from Sofia. This didn't always work - I much preferred Sofia's chapters and felt that Daniel's chapters in particular didn't flow as well. Where it was a success though was the final chapter which was told from the POV of Behnaz - having her have the final say in the story really left me with a bittersweet feeling which in this case was perfect. I also found that the theme of friendship was particularly well conveyed throughout. This was a definite strength.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It was so interesting to read a story set in the Middle East. Thank you @venturapress__ for sending a copy of this book my way.
December 9, 2020
Denise Leith - The Night Letters: This exquisite novel by Denise Leith is set in Kabul. It raises many questions about the extent to which foreign agencies and individuals can 'solve' problems in war-torn nations such as Afghanistan. Main character Sofia, an Australian doctor, finds a home in Shaahir Square despite the cultural divide and she works to empower the women in the villages through education in midwifery. She also learns as much as she teaches.
There are several love stories weaving through this narrative, including that of Sofia and Daniel, a doctor she meets when he is working in a remote village. However, bigger questions arise relating to the definitions and the boundaries of love and culture. As a doctor in the square she becomes beloved by her patients because she attends to their spirits not merely their physical ailments.
The book is a finely crafted work with prose that stopped me in my tracks at times. There are many graphic descriptions of the magnificent landscapes of Afghanistan and of the people of the book. And all this from an author who has not been to Afghanistan- it's astounding! The work has, however, been intensively vetted by those who know the country, languages and culture best. Highly recommended.
There are several love stories weaving through this narrative, including that of Sofia and Daniel, a doctor she meets when he is working in a remote village. However, bigger questions arise relating to the definitions and the boundaries of love and culture. As a doctor in the square she becomes beloved by her patients because she attends to their spirits not merely their physical ailments.
The book is a finely crafted work with prose that stopped me in my tracks at times. There are many graphic descriptions of the magnificent landscapes of Afghanistan and of the people of the book. And all this from an author who has not been to Afghanistan- it's astounding! The work has, however, been intensively vetted by those who know the country, languages and culture best. Highly recommended.
August 30, 2022
This book is populated with strong but caring women who struggle with the place they are given in traditional, male dominated Afghan culture. Sofia really wants to help them rise from their lowly status, but knows that she must beware.
Denise Leith gives many details of life in Kabul - housing, health, poverty, and customs - which I found enlightening.
An enjoyable read.
For five years, Australian doctor Sofia Raso has lived in Kabul’s vibrant Shaahir Square, working with Dr Jabril Aziz to support the local women. She knows that living peacefully in Kabul requires following two simple rules: keep a low profile; and keep out of local affairs.
Yet when threatening night letters from the Taliban taunt the town, and young boys disappear from Jamal Mina, Kabul’s largest slum, Sofia can no longer remain silent. While the square is encased by fear, an elegant former warlord proves an unlikely ally, and a former lover re-emerges with a warning. As the search for the boys intensifies, and Sofia feels herself being drawn back into a love affair she thought had ended, it soon becomes clear that answers will bring a heavy price.
Gripping and evocative, The Night Letters takes you to the heart of Kabul in a story of secrets, friendship and love in all its imperfect guises.
Denise Leith gives many details of life in Kabul - housing, health, poverty, and customs - which I found enlightening.
An enjoyable read.
For five years, Australian doctor Sofia Raso has lived in Kabul’s vibrant Shaahir Square, working with Dr Jabril Aziz to support the local women. She knows that living peacefully in Kabul requires following two simple rules: keep a low profile; and keep out of local affairs.
Yet when threatening night letters from the Taliban taunt the town, and young boys disappear from Jamal Mina, Kabul’s largest slum, Sofia can no longer remain silent. While the square is encased by fear, an elegant former warlord proves an unlikely ally, and a former lover re-emerges with a warning. As the search for the boys intensifies, and Sofia feels herself being drawn back into a love affair she thought had ended, it soon becomes clear that answers will bring a heavy price.
Gripping and evocative, The Night Letters takes you to the heart of Kabul in a story of secrets, friendship and love in all its imperfect guises.
December 28, 2023
I just wrote a pithy and engaging review... and my phone died, losing my train of thought (my god, is my brain so connected now?!)
Anyway, this is a solid four star read for me - it falls short of brilliance, but it is beautifully woven and combines a deep outsider consideration of Afghan culture, mystery, romance and a powerful exposure of the darker side of conservative countries. It reminded me of my own travels and thoughts, particularly the belief I now hold that the more conservative the country, the more perverse and hidden (sometimes in plain sight) the sexual appetites - they never just go away.
I think there were two reasons it fell a little short of brilliant for me - first, the main character, while engaging, compassionate and thoughtful, was also obtuse and frustratingly pigheaded. I struggled with the idea that someone could live in Afghanistan for over five years without understanding that her behaviour could have repercussions on other people... or that she would blindly trust certain people. The second is no fault of the author - the narrator was very robotic and took away from some of the story. If you are inspired to read this one, make sure you pick up a paperback!
Anyway, this is a solid four star read for me - it falls short of brilliance, but it is beautifully woven and combines a deep outsider consideration of Afghan culture, mystery, romance and a powerful exposure of the darker side of conservative countries. It reminded me of my own travels and thoughts, particularly the belief I now hold that the more conservative the country, the more perverse and hidden (sometimes in plain sight) the sexual appetites - they never just go away.
I think there were two reasons it fell a little short of brilliant for me - first, the main character, while engaging, compassionate and thoughtful, was also obtuse and frustratingly pigheaded. I struggled with the idea that someone could live in Afghanistan for over five years without understanding that her behaviour could have repercussions on other people... or that she would blindly trust certain people. The second is no fault of the author - the narrator was very robotic and took away from some of the story. If you are inspired to read this one, make sure you pick up a paperback!
February 1, 2021
In the pros: I do feel like I got to develop a picture of Afghanistan that has nuance.
I learned a bit about what the Taliban has done in the area (I was almost totally unaware).
Cons:
-The book is let down by its inclination to what feels like caricature. While I loved getting to know some of the characters, they did feel like significant exaggerations of single dimensions of real people.
-It feels like its lacking in focus; including issues to make the book like a primer on Afghanistan rather than a focused story.
-It also feels like it's berating you a bit, for daring to fall for the propagated ideas of what Afghanistan is like. Like, nah uh uh that's not right, this is what we're ACTUALLY like. It put me on the back foot a bit, because I came into the book knowing very little about the country, the people, or the culture, and therefore had almost no pre-conceived ideas. I think I was a bit young to have followed this part of world history. And honestly I was happy to learn, but the tone and approach let the book down.
I learned a bit about what the Taliban has done in the area (I was almost totally unaware).
Cons:
-The book is let down by its inclination to what feels like caricature. While I loved getting to know some of the characters, they did feel like significant exaggerations of single dimensions of real people.
-It feels like its lacking in focus; including issues to make the book like a primer on Afghanistan rather than a focused story.
-It also feels like it's berating you a bit, for daring to fall for the propagated ideas of what Afghanistan is like. Like, nah uh uh that's not right, this is what we're ACTUALLY like. It put me on the back foot a bit, because I came into the book knowing very little about the country, the people, or the culture, and therefore had almost no pre-conceived ideas. I think I was a bit young to have followed this part of world history. And honestly I was happy to learn, but the tone and approach let the book down.
September 20, 2021
Through thorough research, the author has done an excellent job of transporting the reader to Kabul and beyond, deeper into Afghanistan, as well as relating just some of its long and troubled history. Also very topical as the story is set in anticipation of the withdrawal of US troops and their Western Allies. It gives a sense of the Afghanis’ feelings about the situation. Told through the eyes of Australian doctor Sofia Raso who has spent five years in the country and has come to regard it as her home, we also glimpse the lives of ordinary Afghans with the introduction of a whole host of colourful, well-developed characters. Impressive to me was the quiet, determined stoicism of the country’s women who have struggled for so long. Central to the plot were two linked mysteries, one of which is the night letters.
December 31, 2020
Although I was intrigued by the subject of ‘ The Night Letters’ I was anticipating an interesting but dour read. How wrong could I be? I couldn’t put this book down.
Australian doctor Sofia Raso arrives in Afghanistan for a 1 year stint in a clinic focused on women’s issues. She lives and works in Shaahir Square. Through her relationships and interactions with her community we get an excellent overview of the local society. This beautifully written novel balances the nefarious actions of the Taliban by portraying the responses of the local people with sensitivity and even humour.
No reader could fail to understand why Sofia remained in Afghanistan for 5 years.
I highly recommend’ The Night Letters’.
Australian doctor Sofia Raso arrives in Afghanistan for a 1 year stint in a clinic focused on women’s issues. She lives and works in Shaahir Square. Through her relationships and interactions with her community we get an excellent overview of the local society. This beautifully written novel balances the nefarious actions of the Taliban by portraying the responses of the local people with sensitivity and even humour.
No reader could fail to understand why Sofia remained in Afghanistan for 5 years.
I highly recommend’ The Night Letters’.
November 5, 2021
I chose this audiobook at random, loving the cover design but having only the most scant knowledge of the subject. I am so thankful I found this gem of a novel. It poignantly captures life in Kabul giving the reader/listener a window into an Afghan world that is, mostly, so far removed from what we see in news broadcasts. It made me laugh and cry, rage and swoon. Denise Leith showed Afghanistan in all its beauty and ugliness, its elegance and crassness, caring and harshness. All of this wrapped in the most beautiful and evocative language, it made the journey with Dr Raso one to savour. Recommended!
March 25, 2023
4.5*
When I rate a book, I round down
5.0 - Amazing
4.5 - I loved it
4.0 - I liked it a lot
3.5 - I Liked it
3.0 - It was OK
2.5 - Just
2.0 - I wouldn't bother
1.5 - I didn't like it much
1.0 - I disliked it
List of characters
Dr Sofia
Dr Jabril - Doctor in Shaair Square
Zahra - Jabril's wife and friend of Sofia
Imam Mustafa - Imam and friend of Jabril
Tawfiq - Jabril's driver
Chief Wasim
Behnaz - Wasim's wife and landlady
Dr Daniel Abiteboul
Omar - Ailing apothecary
Ahmad - souvenir retailer
Hadi - Dry goods retailer
Babur - Tea House retailer
Iman - receptionist and women liberation
Minister Masood - politician and warlord
When I rate a book, I round down
5.0 - Amazing
4.5 - I loved it
4.0 - I liked it a lot
3.5 - I Liked it
3.0 - It was OK
2.5 - Just
2.0 - I wouldn't bother
1.5 - I didn't like it much
1.0 - I disliked it
List of characters
Dr Sofia
Dr Jabril - Doctor in Shaair Square
Zahra - Jabril's wife and friend of Sofia
Imam Mustafa - Imam and friend of Jabril
Tawfiq - Jabril's driver
Chief Wasim
Behnaz - Wasim's wife and landlady
Dr Daniel Abiteboul
Omar - Ailing apothecary
Ahmad - souvenir retailer
Hadi - Dry goods retailer
Babur - Tea House retailer
Iman - receptionist and women liberation
Minister Masood - politician and warlord
July 11, 2024
This book is an exploration of the Afghani culture and the different people who live there. The blurb built the story to be a mystery about night letters from the Taliban and so i thought there would be much more mystery than there was. I enjoyed the insight into a different culture, but i wouldn't have chosen this book if I had known it was more cultural literature than mystery. I kept waiting for something exciting to happen and when it did it was underwhelming and the conclusion wasn't satisfying. Overall just too slow for me and not a book I will remember.
November 24, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this portrayal of life in Afghanistan. The kindness, the loyalty, the troubles and poverty were all shown in a kind and fair light. It’s good to see the ways people were helping themselves. The dangers of speaking out were all too real. I liked the sense of community around the square. It is wonderful to get a book about a culture that doesn’t get much exposure in contemporary novels.
December 29, 2020
There are so many rich layers to this story. The carefully constructed scenes paint such a vibrant picture of Shahir Square, that it almost felt as though I had travelled there. There are some confronting themes, but I felt they shone a light on the darkness that is often hidden in this world.
I warmed to all of the characters, but particularly Sofia, who I admired so much for her bravery and selflessness. I highly recommend this book to fans of Khalid Hosseini and Deborah Rodriguez.
I warmed to all of the characters, but particularly Sofia, who I admired so much for her bravery and selflessness. I highly recommend this book to fans of Khalid Hosseini and Deborah Rodriguez.
September 10, 2021
Reading this as the West pulls out and the Taliban completely take over Afghanistan makes the novel all the more interesting. Leith builds a fascinating picture through the eyes of ordinary people just trying to get through each day and westerners working in a country they can never completely understand. The result is a compelling novel that gives insight into that war-torn country without ever claiming to fully comprehend its culture.
April 9, 2022
Enjoyed this look into a different culture through the eyes of an outsider. Narrator was good, clear voice, good intonation and identifiable character voices without being cartoonish. The story's overall arc was pretty clear from the beginning but took you on some beautiful side steps through different characters eyes to give you a sense of what being a citizen of Kabul was like for different people who lived there.
December 7, 2020
What an exquisite novel! I enjoyed every moment of reading it. I had to learn what was happening to Dr Sofia and her friends and the writing had me enthralled every step of the way. Would thoroughly recommend this novel for the sensitive and evocative way it tells a story many of us would be ignorant of in the West.
May 30, 2021
A fascinating look at life in Afghanistan as the West prepare to pull out. The author seemed to do a remarkable job of creating an authentic setting and did not give us any easy or unrealistic answers. Because of this the ending is not quite satisfying. I also felt that the novel lacked quite enough tension at the end and seemed to peter our slowly. Regardless, a recommended read.
July 20, 2021
I have never read any books set on the Middle East before, but my sister in law gifted me this book and I am glad she did. I was captivated by the vibrancy of the characters in this book and really liked how the author was clearly focused on being culturally sensitive and trying to represent true Afghanistan in a way an outsider like me can understand.
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