trigger warnings: sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, victim blaming, incest, pedophilia, violence, domestic violence

This is an incredible book that isn't necessarily going to resonate with everyone. I've seen people complain in their reviews that the author seemed to be ranting at certain points, but that's exactly what I liked about it. I can understand how that could turn others off, but I loved reading about the passion that Sohaila Abdulali had for a topic she's studied for most of her life, as well as one that has personally affected her.

This book is imperfect, and that's part of the reason why it was so impactful. Straight-up, Abdulali admits that she doesn't have all the answers and makes sure that the reader knows the book is only her point of view. She says that she's going to contradict herself and sometimes say the wrong this, because that is the reality of the topic she is discussing.

Strangely, this book also contains a dark humour. There are moments where you can't help but laugh, and then you're somewhat horrified considering what it is that you're reading. That allowed the book to have some levity, particularly at points where it had become a bit too much, something which happens often.

I particularly liked the look at how authority figures, whether that be an important member of the family or the leader of the whole country, and how they can influence the culture that they have control over. Don't come to this book if you don't want to read anything about politics, because the topic of rape itself is quite political when it comes to dissecting it.

Honestly, I'm not sure how coherent this is, but this is a soul-destroying, immensely important book that isn't going to gel with everyone, but that I would recommend everyone try.