IMPERFECT
A Story about Loss, Courage, and Perseverance

by Katy Motiey

“This book had a profound impact on me…Imperfect will leave an indelible mark on your life, offering readers a perspective forever changing the definition of strength and courage amidst tragic loss.”
~ Jill Rey, For The Love Of The Page 

“A terrific story about a woman fighting both personal and legal battles to save her children and herself.”
~ Ellen Sussman, New York Times Bestselling Author of French Lessons

“…provides insights into the difficulties encountered by a widow with practically no legal rights who used intelligence, determination and strength to overcome the many obstacles she encountered as she struggled to find a better life for herself and her children.”
~ F. Amanda DeBusk, former Assistant Secretary of Commerce and International Lawyer

“A beautiful, timely, and thrilling story…inspiring us all to fight for justice in our own time and place.”
~ Ann Gelder, Podcaster for The Re-re-read

"Imperfect explores the complexities of familial loyalty, the oppressive nature of outdated traditions, and the spirit of a woman who refuses to bow to them."
~ Readers Favorite Reviews

"If you are someone who enjoys women’s historical fiction that digs deep into personal and societal struggles, Imperfect is a must-read. It’s about a mother’s love, a widow’s fight for respect, and the courage it takes to forge a new path when everything you know is falling apart.
~ Literary Titan

"Libraries and readers that choose Imperfect: A Story about Loss, Courage, and Perseverance will find it a delight, whether they pick it for its themes of women’s empowerment, disempowerment, and struggles, or for its many insights into Iranian culture and society."
~ Midwest Book Review

"…a powerful narrative about a woman's resilience and fight for her rights in a deeply patriarchal society."
~ Readers’ Favorite Book Review

SYNOPSIS:

Imperfect is the story of one woman’s loss, courage, love, and perseverance before and during the Iranian Revolution. Based on the experiences of the author’s mother, Vida Shamsa’s life takes an unexpected and dramatic turn with the sudden death of her young husband in 1971. Struggling against the patriarchal customs of Iran, she is faced with fighting her husband’s family for control of her children and her life. Never giving up fighting for her son and daughter, she challenges Iran’s legal and personal injustices against the backdrop of political unrest during the Shah’s regime, the rise of Khomeini, and the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis. Imperfect engages the reader in a quest for equality for a single mother who rages against outdated traditions and her need to control her life in order to protect her children, whom she loves above all else.