Description
This visceral tale of feminine rage and magical realism follows Layla as she learns the very human pains of growing up and realizes the world isn't as safe as it should be.
A man's body is found viciously murdered behind a corner store, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community. The victim's family and bystanders want to make sense of the brutal crime and move on with their lives.
But all seven-year-old Layla wants is a pet donkey. To her, a donkey is the epitome of freedom and self-sufficiency—to think for herself, go anywhere on her own, and live an independent life.
As the killings continue, Layla's world unravels. Rumors spread of hoofprints and of a woman with hair like black silk. Ambiguous messages in lipstick and the sweet smell of perfume turn the finger of blame toward the women, and Layla grows into a woman.
The kind of woman she has always dreamt of becoming—a woman with sharp instincts. A woman who cannot be tamed.
The night is not for you. It has always belonged to her.