Patricia McArdle is a retired American diplomat. During her career, she was posted around the world, including northern Afghanistan.
Farishta, Patricia McArdle's first novel, is a compelling and readable book about the challenges faced by soldiers and civilians stationed in Afghanistan-the constant fear of attack; the unforgiving landscape; the hostile and often corrupt warlords; the uncertain loyalties of Afghan colleagues; the efficacy of their mission; and the constant isolation. . . . But this book is more than a book about one woman and her desire to help Afghans find their own way. It is a well told story of the daily dangers that Angela and her male colleagues face, the trauma that can accompany their work, and the difficulty they have reentering society. - The Huffington Post Combining the emotional insight of Three Cups of Tea with the narrative intensity of a Jason Bourne story, Farishta is the gripping story of a female US diplomat living and working in Afghanistan. Met with open hostility not only by the Afghan males, but also within her own all-male mission team, over the courseh Combining the emotional insight of Three Cups of Tea with the narrative intensity of a Jason Bourne story, Farishta is the gripping story of a female US diplomat living and working in Afghanistan. Met with open hostility not only by the Afghan males, but also within her own all-male mission team, over the course of her year there, she has to overcomes their antagonism and confront real danger and tragedy. -Valerie Plame Wilson, author of the New York Times -bestselling Fair Game Farishta opens a window into the challenging life of a diplomat. Patricia McArdle accurately portrays life in the northern regions of Afghanistan. Her written wealth of knowledge and experiences enhances the reader's ability to understand and appreciate a complex career and multifaceted culture. Farishta is an outstanding read! -Deborah Rodriguez, author of the New York Times -bestselling Kabul Beauty School and A Cup of Friendship