The Secret Sky: A Novel of Forbidden Love in Afghanistan (23 page)

This book would not have been possible without the incredible support of the Philomel and Penguin family, who immediately made me feel like I had always been a part of their team. A special thank-you to Jill Santopolo; her guidance and expertise were invaluable—as was her friendship, honesty and kindness. I cannot express in words just how deeply grateful I am to you, Michael Green and the entire Philomel and Penguin team—there are so many who worked hard and with kind hearts and I am very thankful to all of you. And I cannot forget Nick Schifrin for sending the e-mail that set this all in motion,
besyar tashakur
and
dera manana,
dear friend.

I also want to thank my family for the love, support and patience they showed as I immersed myself in the adventure of writing a novel during my breaks from work—spending less time with them and more time with my computer and imagination. They never stopped believing in me. First, I want to express my gratitude to my husband, Conor Powell: you are my everything; thank you for taking this journey with me and for always motivating me in all that I and we do. My mother, Mahnaz Abawi, whose prayers and love have guided me all my life. My father, Wahid Abawi, who was my rock and taught through his strength and kindness what a true Afghan man is. My brother, Tawab Abawi, and his wife, Kelli, for their encouragement and love. And the Powells and Phelans for supporting us always. God has blessed me with so much, but the greatest blessing of all has been my loved ones.

I want to take this opportunity to thank my brothers and sisters in Afghanistan who took me in as family and showed me true Afghan hospitality during all the years I lived there. They are an inspiration. Every Afghan has millions of stories trapped in his or her heart, stories most will never be able to share. One day I hope the world can see past the war and destruction and glimpse the beauty and wonders that lie in this tragic history. Very special thanks to Qari Saib Fazal Ahad for his research, to the Shinwaris for their help, and to Mandy Clark for her input. And to everyone else who has touched my life and given me knowledge of a country that continues to survive with the patience and hard work of the good people inside it—both Afghans and internationals.

I also want to say
tesekkür ederim
to the Starbucks on Istanbul’s Istiklal Street for allowing me to write for hours on end as I sipped my coffee and tapped away. And thank you to Chantilly’s regional library for giving me the same experience—minus the coffee.