It's stomach churning to say the least. Bali Rai charts the disparity between the Sikh faith and its environmental, atrophied Punjabi culturalism where gender equity is concerned. 'Killing Honour' is more than just a young reader's novel charting the brutally inhumane aspect of South Asian culture.

How Rai conveys his hard-hitting points is through the medium of fiction. In my opinion, he's a master at harnessing the power of narrative to subtly punch patriarchy in the face. We follow our protagonist who discovers that his sister's supposed elopement is in reality a convenient visage for concealing her brutal murder. The most harrowing account in the novel is that of how another 'bride' is slaughtered by her husband in a bout of honor killing.

To say that this book is visceral is a colossal understatement. But it altered my life and my comprehension of South Asian cultural dynamics. For this, I will be forever thankful to Bali Rai for opening my eyes to what transpires behind closed doors. ( )

When Sat's sister suddenly disappears he knows there is something seriously wrong and does not believe the story her husband tells to explain her disappearance. Despite his family's objections, Sat is determined to discover the truth which puts him in serious danger.

"Killing Honour" is essentially a crime story but deals with some heavy issues including domestic violence, drug abuse, corruption, gangsters, family relationships and racial hatred. Told from Sat's point of view, the book moves from the present to events leading up to it and the reader catches glimpses of the life Jas has led since her arranged marriage to Taz who, I must say, is a horrible character.

Well worth the read. ( )