I read another review that pointed out that this book was grotesque and they were not wrong. Though I enjoyed some of the imagery and especially the nature of the prose that Khaw at this point should be known for, I just didn't feel quite like the target audience on this one and that's ok! 

The story was beautifully told and had a lot of different potential interpretations which is very neat to see a contemporary author doing. Loved it in theory, could tell it was well done and understand how this could scratch a very particular itch.