Kishwar Desai

The subject matter of this book interested me straight away. Unfortunately, I found the beginning a bit confusing (switching time periods and characters) and a bit slow. Luckily, around the half way mark things became clearer and the tension built. Overall, I think the story could have been stronger and more interesting if some of the side stories or characters had been left out or less developed. I only found out later that this was the second book in the "series," but each book can be read on their own without issue.… (mais)

This book has the potential to be very good. The subject matter, the characterisation, the setting, the understanding of Punjabi small town culture are all present. The mystery element adds an extra layer. Sadly, the author seems to have decided to leave all that potential largely unexplored and gone more for entertainment. As a result there is a lack of rigour and objectivity that makes it hard for me to trust that this gives an accurate portrayal of the subject matter. Having said that it is a very good entertainment, one of those novels which are hard to put down. And all that potential, even if largely unfulfilled, means that it is a superior entertainment. 31 January 2017.… (mais)

I finished this book very fast, started it last night and finished this afternoon.

First of all, it is a very immersing book. The main character is herself intersting and the story she follows drew me in even more.

But another reason for finishing fast were the terrible nightmares this book gave me last night. The book is definitely the scariest I've read in a long while, and while it's not based on a true story directly, it is the combination of so many true stories. It ignited my imagination in the worst way.

So I'm glad to have finished reading the story and glad to be aware of the facts. I'm glad I've read this novel.

It's a very excellent novel, with an atmosphere that keeps the reader somewhat at a distance from the horrible events, and striking language. But it does give the reader a punch in the gut.… (mais)