The Secret Gate

More about the book

The incredible true story of a breathtaking rescue during the U.S. evacuation of Afghanistan unfolds through the experiences of Homeira Qaderi, an Afghan mother marked for death by the Taliban, and Sam Aronson, a compassionate American diplomat. As the U.S. withdrawal began and the Afghan Army collapsed, Homeira, a celebrated author and women's rights advocate, struggled to secure an escape for herself, her eight-year-old son Siawash, and her family amidst the chaos at Kabul Airport. Meanwhile, Sam, on vacation, volunteered to assist the remaining officials at the airport, racing to rescue over 100,000 stranded Americans and their Afghan allies. Discovering a secret entrance to the airport, he began to bring families through, rescuing as many as fifty-two people in a single day. On the final day of evacuation, Sam was contacted by Homeira's literary agent, prompting him to risk his life to help her escape. Utilizing night-vision goggles and enlisting a Dari-speaking colleague and armed security, he coordinated a daring plan with Homeira, who bravely defied his instructions. Together, they navigated gunfire and the desperate crowds, ultimately forcing Homeira and Siawash to leave behind their family and everything they knew. The narrative captures the emotional journey of courage and survival against overwhelming odds.