'Bernard Phelan has written a moving, engrossing, suspenseful and at times humorous account of his seven-month ordeal as a hostage in Iran. The book is filled with memorable characters, for example 'George', a sinister Iranian interrogator who is eager to discuss same sex marriage, atheism and French cassoulet. Phelan denounces Iran's 'grisly human chess game' and the cruelty of jailers, judges and fellow prisoners. But his story is also an affirmation of the power of love, kindness, courage and human resilience. Though one would not wish such a terrible experience on anyone, imprisonment in Iran has revealed Phelan's promise as a writer' -- Lara Marlowe * author of Love in a Time of War * 'A taut chronicle of vulnerability, defiance, and, most of all, a ferocious resilience' * Irish Examiner *
