The Swallows of Kabul by Yasmina Khadra

This novel is the story of two couples living in Kabul during the reign of the Taliban. It has many interesting details (especially regarding the changing roles of women) after this political change. Like all the Middle-Eastern novels that I've read this year, it's depressing as hell, but it's kind of philosophical, which is interesting. Also, it has a somewhat-surprise ending. It wasn't one of my favorites, but it's worth checking out if you're not a picky English teacher like I am.