The House Without Windows    by Nadia Hashimi Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2016 (2016) Hardcover, CD, e-Book     Reviewed by Bob Walch Life for a woman in Afghanistan can be very trying, but if the woman has been accused of a crime it is doubly difficult. This new novel by Nadia Hashimi focuses on a woman named Zeba, an ordinary Afghan housewife and mother of four children, who is accused of killing her husband. Although she protests her innocence and her children support her, the rest of Zeba's family believes she is guilty and demand justice. Awaiting trial, Zeba shares a facility with other women who are awaiting a trial for a series of crimes. There's Nafisa, a thirty year old imprisoned to protect her from an honor killing. Latifa is a twenty-five year old runaway who is in jail because it represents a safe haven. And a teenager named Mezghan, who is pregnant and unmarried; has been locked up for zina or love crimes. Even among these women Zeba stands out because of her supposed crime and the belief that she practices witchcraft as well. Of course, the overriding question is, 'Is this woman guilty as charged or is this all a terrible mistake or is there much, much more to her story?' Assigned to find the answer and defend Zeba is Yusuf, a lawyer who has a passion for human rights. During the course of his client's court case Yusuf is going to be in for some major surprises that will shake some of his core beliefs. The House Without Windows offers an unforgettable look at life in Afghanistan as well as the challenging role women face in this society. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Contemporary books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews