Desert Rose

By Karen Makowski and Karen Smith

This novel contains strong language, mature themes, and unfiltered depictions of human behavior. It is intended for adult readers and may not be suitable for those who are easily offended.
Readers may also notice grammatical inconsistencies, unconventional spelling, or other apparent irregularities throughout the text. These are intentional and have been deliberately retained for reasons known only to the author. They form part of a broader design woven into the narrative and should not be assumed to be editorial oversights.

As in life itself, not everything is meant to appear perfectly ordered on the surface. Sometimes, what seems imperfect serves a greater purpose.

Karen offers an unfiltered and uncompromising look at the darker side of expatriate contractor life in Iraq. Through Mia's experiences, the novel exposes manipulative personalities, questionable ethics, corporate politics, workplace bullying, and predatory behavior. It reveals how some individuals, both men and women, abuse their positions, relationships, and influence for personal gain, believing themselves to be untouchable and above accountability.

Desert Rose provides a compelling and authentic portrayal of what it means to be a Western woman navigating a predominantly male environment. Mia's journey highlights the constant struggle to preserve her integrity while resisting the temptations, dysfunction, and moral compromises that often exist beneath the surface of contractor life. The novel does not shy away from exposing the reckless and irresponsible conduct of some Westerners abroad, nor from the damage such behaviour can inflict on the reputations of their home countries while they live and work as guests in Iraq.

For most people, the realities of life as an overseas contractor remain hidden from public view. Unless someone has lived and worked in that world, or those within it choose to speak openly about their experiences, the truth is rarely seen. Drawing on firsthand insight, Desert Rose offers readers a rare and authentic glimpse into this complex environment, capturing both its opportunities and its darker realities with honesty, depth, and remarkable realism.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0H599YJWF
• ISBN13: 9798306928326
• Release Date: May 2011
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 572 Pages
• Weight: 1.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 6.0" x 9.0"