The Confusion of Languages by Siobhan Fallon
Army wives Cassie Hugo and Margaret Brickshaw follow their husbands to the U.S. embassy in Jordan, where they struggle to acclimate to the divided culture of the Middle East and the transplanted "little America" on base. Cassie follows the rules, but Margaret longs to get to know Jordan better. When Margaret gets in a minor car accident, Cassie agrees to watch Margaret's young son. But then Margaret doesn't return.
As Cassie becomes worried, she finds Margaret's journal in the apartment. As she reads it, she begins to wonder if the secrets she learns - including about herself - are responsible for Margaret's disappearance.
Why I Loved It: This book is mystery, realism, aching beauty, and amazing writing in one package. It completely transported me. It's a glimpse into a world very few people see.