Lost in the Hillside: The untold story of my mother's search for the truth (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798267921503)

Born in Chelsea, London, in 1959 to a Catholic family, my mother later embraced Islam, a decision that shaped the course of her life. She passed away in Sydney, New South Wales, in December 1999 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind her husband and five young children. This book records the story of her discovery of Islam and stands as a testament to her enduring legacy.

Her journey toward the truth began during the injustice of South African apartheid in 1981, which awakened in her a deep search for meaning, justice, and faith. She wrote this book to help other reverts-those who, like her, may struggle to find security and belonging when family or community are not always accepting.

It was her dying wish to publish this book. Sadly, she passed before she could see that dream fulfilled. For many years, the manuscript was thought to be lost. Then, more than twenty-five years later, through the mercy of Allah, it returned to me by chance. A close friend of my mother had safeguarded her copy all this time, and through it I was finally able to reconnect with her words, her journey, and her memory.

After sharing parts of her story on social media, the idea of publishing her book came to life. At last, her voice can reach the world as she intended. I pray that this book becomes her Sadaqah Jariyah-a continuous charity-so that her faith, her struggle, and her legacy may continue to inspire others on their own path toward truth.

May Allah ﷻ accept this work from her, forgive her sins, illuminate her grave, and grant her the highest ranks of Jannah. Āmīn.

As her daughter, I feel honored and humbled to finally fulfill her wish and share her story with the world.