"City of Salt" is a novel that explores the dramatic transformation of a remote desert oasis when it becomes the site of oil extraction. The story is set in an unnamed Middle Eastern country and follows the lives of the local inhabitants who are profoundly impacted by the arrival of American oilmen. The book delves into themes of cultural imperialism, greed, and the destructive power of wealth and industry on a traditional society.

In this gripping mystery set in Saudi Arabia, a young woman's brutal death becomes the center of an intense investigation that delves deep into the cultural and social fabric of the conservative Muslim society. The story intricately weaves the lives of several characters, including a female forensic scientist fighting against gender barriers, an American woman navigating her new life in a restrictive environment, and a devout Muslim detective torn between his duty and his faith. As they work together to solve the murder, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that challenge their beliefs and threaten to disrupt the delicate balance of their community. This novel not only offers a suspenseful crime story but also provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of life in a society where tradition and modernity are in constant conflict.