Each of first-time novelist Varadarajan’s characters has their own journey and personal growth, and the family interactions acknowledge past decisions that still resonate. Details about the couple’s arranged marriage, favorite foods, and celebrations add even greater depth to these engaging characters, while a lively sense of humor guides them through challenges and joys.
Varadarajan has written her characters with intelligence and compassion, imbuing them with complexity; each narrative mirrors, refracts, refutes, and informs the others in what’s ultimately a tender exploration of family patterns, choices, regrets, and the possibility for change.
Striking narration from each of the family members and believable character development add to Varadarajan’s bold challenge to traditional South Asian conventions for a stringent life plan. These strong voices leave an indelible mark.
