Live For Today

Oxford University students, Syrian national Ali, a devout Muslim and English-borne Atheist Margaret, succumb to a passionate romance. Issues regarding religion and Ali's eventual return to Syria are dismissed as they realise a love live theirs only happens once in a lifetime, if ever. They vow to 'live for today', hoping the parting day never comes. Through their joint detective work, they discover a connection with Pembroke and beautiful Barafundle Bay, which holds the secrets of Margaret's deceased mother's past. Which leads them to solve the mystery of Margaret's father, which has dogged her since childhood. Margaret moves to Syria to be with Ali and her newfound father. Their lives are idyllic; they make new friends, and 'live for today' has a different meaning. Then the Syrian Civil War erupts. Unlike most of their friends that flee from the war, Ali and Margaret decide to stay and help those in need. Margaret volunteers at the hospital and Ali joins the 'White Helmets'. They witness the horrific destruction of Aleppo and the terrorising of trapped citizens during the indiscriminate bombing by its own government and allies. 'Live For Today' is all they can do.

A bit about the author. I spent some years working in Saudi Arabia and Syria on a single status contract, though married. Once retired, myself and my wife resided in Turkey for six years. Working and living with different nationalities and becoming accepted by them was the inspiration for writing this story. Though the events within it are purely fiction, I have drawn upon some of my experiences encountered. Most nationalities I found friendly and honest and, once shown the same respect I desired, we became real friends.