As a dutiful Muslim daughter, and an independent young American, Layla is torn between clashing identities. When she reluctantly submits to an arranged marriage in Hyderabad, Layla experiences all the ancient and elaborate rites of a highly traditional wedding. Set against a background of rising Hindu-Muslim violence, and taboo questions of sexuality, Samina Ali presents the complexities of life behind the chador, and the story of a marriage where no one is what they seem.