The Oxen Are Slow is a story of taboo love. Cary, an American writer newly arrived in 1958 Malaya, encounters four sisters, who are each unique in a provocative way. "A handsome stranger appears and no one can find a decent dress to wear," laments Noor. Noor, their mother, is married to her fourth husband, the owner of a eucalyptus plantation who is murdered. The murder mystery may be solved, but what of the four daughters? Down what forbidden path, winding into the dark unknown-for their love is forbidden-do Cary and his lover tumble?