Moving between India and Pakistan, before and after Partition, these seven short stories chronicle a world of rapidly changing customs where families are sundered and lives are irrevocably changed by political circumstance beyond their control. In a voice poignant yet unflinching, these stories dissect the fading of love, lay bare the disappointments of adulterous liaisons, and expose the compromises forced upon women by money and class. Showing Qurratulain Hyder at her most astute, witty, and humane, these stories capture the humane essence of a culture struggling heroically through a complicated and turbulent time.