Unexpected Grace: A Life in Two Worlds

by Farifteh V Robb

Have you ever wondered what it is like to survive a Revolution, be a religious convert, adopt a different nationality, start afresh in a new discipline, and fall deeply in love in spite of the obstacles? This engaging book is the story of a woman’s journey between two cultures—her Persian Muslim heritage and her Christian life in Scotland. It describes the challenges she has faced in Iran and Europe, as well as her determination to remain loyal to both worlds. Written with passion, candid reflection, and a gentle wit, this book is sure to appeal to all who live in a multi-cultural society.Farifteh Robb (née Hafezi) BA, MSc, PhD, began her career as an academic in Iran before re-training as a nurse and midwife in the UK. Born in Switzerland and raised as a Muslim in a Persian family, she has lived in Europe and the Middle East. She was baptized in Tehran during the final years of the Shah’s reign and survived both the Islamic Revolution and its aftermath. Her subsequent move to Britain and marriage to a Scottish doctor have enabled her to embrace a new life greatly enhanced by her intimate connection with two cultures, two religions, and two very different professions.

Paperback

Published March 10, 2017

Reviews

[Duane Alexander Miller]

Some years ago while completing my research for a PhD I interviewed Farifteh Robb. That led to the publication of a brief article titled "The Secret World of God: Aesthetics, Relationships, and the conversion of 'Frances' from Shi'a Islam to Christianity" in Global Missiology. At that time Robb was not discussing her history publicly, but I'm glad that she decided to do so.

This books brings a welcome contribution to the growing literature by converts from Islam to Christianity. Robb's strong background in literature allows her to reference great authors and work in a way that other converts cannot. The fact that she ended up in Anglican Christianity as opposed to evangelical or charismatic Christianity is also rare for such conversion narratives. My favorite thing about the book was reading her personal recollections of what life was like in Tehran before, during and after the 1979 revolution.

Finally, the author has a light and witty style. Her sense of humor is much appreciated.