Take It Back by Kia Abdullah

Jodie is a 16 year old white girl with severe facial deformities (neurofibromatosis) who lives with her alcoholic mother. Jodie has had a very hard life being constantly bullied at school and neglected at home. One night, Jodie accuses four boys from Muslim immigrant families of the unthinkable and sets in motion an exploration of faith, identity, and the truth.

The book is a roller coaster of twists and turns. I found former barrister and now rape counsellor Zara Kaleel fascinating in the sense of the fact that she is the product of two cultures/religions. She has grown up Muslim in Britain but is also exposed to the Western way of life, particularly as a woman.

I found the conflict in her values thought provoking and interesting.

This is a solid legal thriller that doesn't shy away from controversial subjects but it is also an intriguing exploration of what it means to be a certain race and religion living in a culture that seems to test or conflict with each other.

Highly recommended.

4/5 Stars