NOT WITHOUT MY DAUGHTER

Book Review
Author:  Betty Mahmoody

Not Without My Daughter is a story of how easily one can be tricked by a Shia or Shiite Muslim. In a broader sense, it is the story of an oft-repeated phenomenon of the modern era, a story similar to over a thousand like it in Iran .

This is the true story of Betty Mahmoody.  As a young single mother, she was courted by a charming, promising Iranian doctor. He lavished upon her every unbelievable pleasure a woman could ask of a man, nor was there any end in sight to his gifts and affections, his declarations of love and praise. He was intelligent, educated, cultured, compassionate.  Although he knew her background was Christian, he never suggested she give it up or attempt persuasion to accept his peaceful Islamic faith.

Once married, there was a continued constant courting of Betty’s favor and happiness.  He was an exemplary, if not indulgent husband.  She never realized that this same gentle husband would be holding her and their only child captive in his home country a few short years later.  She had no idea he would become a sadistic, fanatical madman who ruled his family with extreme physical and emotional violence.  Almost overnight he reverted to the customs of his country and faith, though he had once been thoroughly Americanized.  She had been tricked.

Unwittingly, once Betty married Dr. Mahmoody she became a citizen of Iran and subject to its laws. This reality paved the way for an easy abduction once they were in the country of his birth, since Islamic law orders that a woman has absolutely no rights apart from what her husband/guardian allows. She is his property, his chattel to dispose of as he chooses without an iota of interference from the government – even if it meant disposal--spelled murder.

When Betty turned to God for comfort and guidance, she confused Allah with the One true God. She knew too little of her own faith to seek His aid.  She was entirely alone in the grip of a suddenly terrifying man who was only following the tenets of his faith.

Many women have been courted, married and abducted in much the same manner by Muslims. Not Without My Daughter is a  breathtaking tale of actual events, and a warning to all people, most especially women, of the sheer power and horror of militant Islam – perhaps a glimpse into the not too distant future of unsuspecting American “infidels.”

Ashley Palladino
November 11, 2011

A Note From Kathie:  This book will captivate you.  I was unable to put it down for three nights and read until 5 a.m. each night.  The story is incredible and actually makes the movie, by the same name, appear elementary.  It is a must read for all women.