“Through richly drawn characters who drive their shared destiny, Maha Gargash depicts a world of wealth while revealing the true meaning of value as two young women, through the power of their warm friendship, transcend the dictates of society’s expectations and transform from outsiders into leaders of a new future.” — Jessica Jiji, author of SWEET DATES IN BASRA

“Light in tone, her reflections on culture and social norms will strike a familiar chord with Arab readers and will intrigue, even surprise, western readers.” — The National

“A compelling tapestry of familial strife and stresses…Gargash layers on the restrictions of Arab society, masterfully capturing the constricting expectations each person faces…the way they behave in response is one of the most revealing aspects of their characters. A nuanced look at Arab life and society.” — Booklist

“Gargash…paint[s] a complex portrait of a family, as its members struggle to maintain their ties with one another and to their traditions, while consequences of enormous wealth prove more threatening than modernity or Western influence.” — Publishers Weekly

“Opens a window into the complicated world of Emirati culture. The book shines brightest when focused on Mariam and Dalal as they come of age in two different worlds…The examination of changing norms in Middle Eastern culture, and the differences between Dubai and Cairo, is at times extremely engaging…fascinating.” — Kirkus

“Simply beautiful…The imagery in THAT OTHER ME is brilliant, constant and fresh…an enjoyable, mind-provoking and flowing read. I’ll definitely be interested in reading more of Maha Gargash’s work in the future.” — Nadaness in Motion blog

From the #1 internationally bestselling author of The Sand Fish, an exhilarating look at Khaleeji (Gulf-Arab) culture that explores the way secrets and betrayal consume three members of a prominent Emirati family

The head of the Naseemy family, Majed, is proud to be one of the wealthiest businessmen in Dubai. But he’s suddenly plagued by nightmares about the dead brother whose business he stole, and he feels his control erode with the discovery that his niece and daughter are defying his orders.

Mariam concentrates on her college education in Cairo, carving a path that will lead her away from her hated uncle’s controlling grip. But she falls for a brash fellow student named Adel, who might just prove to be her downfall. Meanwhile the rebellious Dalal, largely abandoned by Majed as the daughter of a second, secret marriage, strives to become a singer. It’s a career looked down on in Khaleeji societies, and one she is rightfully certain will humiliate her father.

As Majed increasingly tries to exert his authority over Dalal and Mariam, both girls resist, with explosive consequences. Set against the backdrop of the glamorous world of Arab showbiz, That Other Me explores the ties that bind one corroded family... and the tantalizing possibility of freedom.