I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I actually only put it down to sleep because the story was so compelling. As I described the story to a friend, he was surprised I would like it so much. That is because there are descriptions of events that are both frightening and brutal. The author doesn't dwell long on the gory details, but gives you just enough so that you have a sense of both the lavishness and trials of lives of Saudi royal women. The result, although a bit too tidy in places, compels you to read on.

Share/Like this Review?

I truly feel as if I've been given a fair and accurate look into the Saudi Arabian recent past, as described through a female member of the royalty. This book portrays a timeline from the 70's - 90's and heavily describes day to day life for women, both privledged and not. There is plenty of bad, mixed with good and hope.

Share/Like this Review?

Didn't know if I really wanted to read this but after the first few pages, couldn't put it down. My Western mind couldn't get around some of the things that happened. This is, after all, the 21st century. Fascinating! Will be reading the next book in the series for sure.

Share/Like this Review?

Unbelievable story written by a woman who grew up in--and eventually fled--Saudi Arabia. Reads like an adventure novel, except it is real. Could not put it down!

Share/Like this Review?

I was completely engrossed by this book. It is riveting. I could not believe how things really were over there. It is a must read if you are at all interested in the middle east or how women are treated.

Share/Like this Review?

The book was interesting regarding the treatment of women in Saudi Arabia. The copyright is 1992 so it somewhat out of date. The story of women/human rights or rather lack of them is disturbing. To be born a girl in Saudi Arabia is to be nothing, a non-person. Your quality of life, your very life is in the hands of your father, husband, son, and country. No one deserves to be treated like this.

Share/Like this Review?

Wow, this book (the first of a trilogy) takes a look at life in Saudi Arabia and its treatment of women. Some of the content is heartbreaking, but Princess Sultana is a strong woman, not willing to be defined by her culture. Definitely worth the read!

Share/Like this Review?

Wow, what an interesting book. I loved it.

Share/Like this Review?

A must read book if you are interested in womens rights here and abroad. The Princess trilogy shows the gilded cage these women live in. All the material riches are at their finger tips except for the most important things: education, freedom, choice, respect. I highly recommend this compelling and thought provoking memoir

Share/Like this Review?

This is an amazing book that I could not put down! Not for the squeamish! Very graphic look at the sad & brutal life of a Saudi woman. Princess or not, being born a woman in Saudia Arabia is not something I would wish on anyone! If you have any interest in Arab culture this is a must read! Can't wait to read book 2 in the trilogy!

Share/Like this Review?

If life is this terrible for a Saudi Princess, one can only imagine what it is like for the poor. Sure makes me glad I was born in the U.S.

Share/Like this Review?