"Tara is an unforgettable character, seething, stubborn, and self-aware, demanding independence in a society that very much does not want to give it to her. Amna's writing is gorgeous, and she does an excellent job pinning Tara's story to events in recent Pakistani history. This is a remarkably bold novel from an undeniable talent. A fiery novel about a character who wants more than just a room of her own."

--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"This novel deserves a warning label: it's a raw, unflinching portrait of feminine rage, gender

constraints, class resentment, and the corrosive pull of worldly ambition...A bold,

uncomfortable, and brilliantly executed character study."

--Booklist, starred review

"An intoxicating, high-voltage mix of female rage, economic ambition, erotic awakening, and biting disdain aimed at the expectations faced by women in contemporary Pakistani society, Tara's voice will sear itself in your consciousness like the scowl of a convict facing the firing squad. Never have my sympathies been so roused, tested, and provoked by a character both heroic and tragic, wily and cornered, raw and charred... a magnificent sophomore novel, replete with Amna's trademark lyricism and sparkling wit."

--Aube Rey Lescure, author of River East, River West

"A lacerating novel by a writer of great insight and deep compassion."

--Mohsin Hamid, author of The Last White Man

"Smart and gripping - I read it in one sitting. Tara is a glorious creation, crackling with life and aspiration and sensuality."

--Kamila Shamsie, author of Home Fire​

"I am constantly amazed by how relentless this is. When you think it's gone too far it goes further. And I love it for that."

--Deepti Kapoor, author of Age of Vice

Publisher: Dzanc Books

Pub date: 2026-04-14

Length: 232 pages