Wow this book was incredible and heartbreaking. Through many flashbacks we learn of Mala's life and the abuse she, her sister, and mother endured throughout the years by her father. We learn so much about her and other character and their role in the story.  
There are many topics touched on in this book that I think were written very well and discussed well. While many moments were hard to read, learning about the characters backgrounds and how they have evolved as people was just done so well. It made them so real and made the events even more heartbreaking. 
I look forward to reading more from Shani Mootoo.