My last book of 2024 was my BookBubble Secret Santa gift. I started it on Boxing Day whilst the house was quiet, got quietly engrossed, and finished it before I went to bed which says it all really. It’s a powerful work of fiction with a compelling storyline and well crafted characters, unflinchingly, yet sensitively, shining a light on, real and important issues.
Synopsis – At the age of 12, Indian American journalist Smita left India with no intention of ever going back, but returns reluctantly when her good friend and colleague needs her help to cover a story. As she follows the case of Meena – a Hindu woman attacked by members of her own village and family for marrying a Muslim man – she surfaces difficult and painful memories of her own.
It is a book that I am still thinking about a week later. It was my first book by this author and I will definitely be back for more. Secret Santa, whoever you are, thank you! If your bookclub is looking for a book to read in 2023 I would highly recommend this.
