The Story of Noble Rot

It is the careless abandon of a wine-satiated afternoon that first brings together the imperious Mrs. Masood and the humble carpenter's wife, Malika. As she observes the wealthy woman whose family is responsible for all her troubles, a plan takes shape in Malika's mind to recover the money Mrs. Masood owes her husband, and rescue her son from slow death in Mr. Masood's carpet factory. Unknown to both women, the moment marks the beginning of a relationship that is to change their lives for ever.

Into the complex web of Malika's plans are drawn Mr. Saeed, who dwells in his study with his ruby-studded armadillo; the Pathan with the sun-dappled eyes; Momin of the hennaed hands with his love for fish and birds; and Saima with her unpredictable affections and fabulous stories.

Vividly narrated and full of funny yet complex dilemmas, this novel marks the debut of a gifted storyteller from Pakistan.