Published in 2019
384 pages
Nicola Sutcliff is a linguist, educator and writer currently residing in Paris. She graduated in Modern Languages and European Studies at the University of Bath and later achieved a Diploma in Freelance and Feature Writing from the London School of Journalism. Her professional interest in languages and transformative education has propelled her to live in eight different countries, including four years in Saudi Arabia.
Living and working in the Kingdom allowed Nicola to build trust and relationships in an extremely private society, and consequently permitted her behind many high walls and closed doors. Her articles have been published in Destination Riyadh, the capital’s principal English-language magazine, and her work has been supported by princesses, renowned activists and a UN representative.
What is this book about?
Saudi Arabia is one of the most closed countries in the world. To separate fact from fiction, Nicola Sutcliff decided to go behind the veil for four years living, working and socialising in Saudi society. The resulting project – this fascinating and revelatory book – aims to raise the voices of these women; to share their realities, dreams, frustrations and talents.
Through personal interviews, thirty women share their stories: from world-renowned activists to wives in polygamous households; high-ranking princesses to desert-dwelling bedouins. They talk candidly about the issues most intriguing to a Western audience – driving, sister wives and the religious police – as well as lesser known aspects of their lives, including under-the-abaya fashion, underground parties, and the practice of ‘purchasing’ husbands online.
Many of the topics they discuss are completely unreported, until now.
This compelling book also includes timely essays on wide-ranging subjects including driving, transgenderism, male guardianship, religion, politics and sexuality.
Authentic, eye-opening, inspiring, courageous, this book will challenge stereotypes and reveal the intimate thoughts and details of women’s lives in this most intriguing and mysterious of countries. At a time when the Kingdom appears to be on the cusp of change, this unique book captures the essence of what it is like to be a woman living in Saudi Arabia today.
