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Tales from the Deccan Plateau
28 Years A Bachelor
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that an Indian woman in possession of a son with an engineering degree, must be in want of a daughter-in-law with an outsized dowry.
Which can be a problem when said son is vehemently opposed to dowry. He is also opposed to city living, to meddlesome neighbours, to wacky grandfathers and to caustic grandmothers. But when he’s blessed with all of the above, what’s man to do?
Which can be a problem when said son is vehemently opposed to dowry. He is also opposed to city living, to meddlesome neighbours, to wacky grandfathers and to caustic grandmothers. But when he’s blessed with all of the above, what’s man to do?
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First published October 31, 2014
34 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Rasana Atreya
9 books422 followersRasana Atreya's debut novel, Tell A Thousand Lies, was shortlisted for the UK-based "Tibor Jones South Asia Prize." In 2017, the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, taught this novel to the students of "English 479."
Glam Magazine, UK (June 2014) calls "Tell A Thousand Lies" one of their "five favourite tales from India."
She's currently working on the series, "Tales From The Deccan Plateau":
* Tell A Thousand Lies
* Talking Is Wasted Breath
* Daughters Inherit Silence
* The Temple Is Not My Father
* The Water Wives
* Tell A Lie, Beget A Daughter
Rasana is one of India's self-publishing pioneers. She was invited by Amazon to the India launch of the Kindle.
Glam Magazine, UK (June 2014) calls "Tell A Thousand Lies" one of their "five favourite tales from India."
She's currently working on the series, "Tales From The Deccan Plateau":
* Tell A Thousand Lies
* Talking Is Wasted Breath
* Daughters Inherit Silence
* The Temple Is Not My Father
* The Water Wives
* Tell A Lie, Beget A Daughter
Rasana is one of India's self-publishing pioneers. She was invited by Amazon to the India launch of the Kindle.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 29, 2014
I had an ARC of this book, so here is my review and I am trying to steer clear of spoilers.
Interesting story line, I read through the book in a single sitting. And its not a straight thread narrative about an eligible bachelor's bride-hunt. The main character is certainly the bachelor, and there is a dynamic grandpa in place to add colour to the storyline. But many strong women too appear in the story, and I love the fact that the author has given them a long and justified presence.
There are excellent people, good people and not so good people in the story, and the setting is certainly built to accommodate all of them without anyone sticking out like a sore thumb. The issues that worry Indian society like skin tone, dowry, treatment of widows, all have been weaved in without disrupting the plot line. Subtle humour is the tone used to narrate and you get to see the urban and rural contrast of an Indian setting too.
Worth buying and reading.
Interesting story line, I read through the book in a single sitting. And its not a straight thread narrative about an eligible bachelor's bride-hunt. The main character is certainly the bachelor, and there is a dynamic grandpa in place to add colour to the storyline. But many strong women too appear in the story, and I love the fact that the author has given them a long and justified presence.
There are excellent people, good people and not so good people in the story, and the setting is certainly built to accommodate all of them without anyone sticking out like a sore thumb. The issues that worry Indian society like skin tone, dowry, treatment of widows, all have been weaved in without disrupting the plot line. Subtle humour is the tone used to narrate and you get to see the urban and rural contrast of an Indian setting too.
Worth buying and reading.
April 24, 2015
***I received a copy of this book from the author***
I really enjoyed this book. The title implies that it is a story about a man finding a wife, and while that does happen in the story, it is not what the story is really about. The story is really about family, and finding happiness.
I especially liked the main character. He is kind, loyal, loves his family, and is occasionally righteously indignant. He is also a little lazy, although he does work hard to support himself and his family.
For those who don't like when books end with an implied "happily ever after" for a new couple, this book is for you. And while the ending doesn't fix everything, because the book portrays life, not a fairy tale, it does have an ending that I appreciated.
There was just a brief instance of mild profanity. This book would be appropriate for all ages, although children and teens might not appreciate the story as much, since it focuses on adult life.
I really enjoyed this book. The title implies that it is a story about a man finding a wife, and while that does happen in the story, it is not what the story is really about. The story is really about family, and finding happiness.
I especially liked the main character. He is kind, loyal, loves his family, and is occasionally righteously indignant. He is also a little lazy, although he does work hard to support himself and his family.
For those who don't like when books end with an implied "happily ever after" for a new couple, this book is for you. And while the ending doesn't fix everything, because the book portrays life, not a fairy tale, it does have an ending that I appreciated.
There was just a brief instance of mild profanity. This book would be appropriate for all ages, although children and teens might not appreciate the story as much, since it focuses on adult life.
July 25, 2015
28 Years A Bachelor: A Novel Set in India
by Rasana Atreya (Author)
Reviewed by Terri Parks Allen
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that an Indian woman in possession of a son with an engineering degree, must be in want of a daughter-in-law with an outsized dowry.
Which can be a problem when said son is vehemently opposed to dowry. He is also opposed to city living, to meddlesome neighbours, to wacky grandfathers and to caustic grandmothers. But when he’s blessed with all of the above, what’s man to do?
This is the first book I have read by Rasana Atreya. I usually don't read this type of book but I did enjoy it. Indian culture was very interesting and at times was overwhelming. Characters were great, especially Madhav's grandfather. He really made you laugh. I appreciated Madhav's love and support of his sister, Jaya. Great read. If you want something a little different, this would be a good one.
by Rasana Atreya (Author)
Reviewed by Terri Parks Allen
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that an Indian woman in possession of a son with an engineering degree, must be in want of a daughter-in-law with an outsized dowry.
Which can be a problem when said son is vehemently opposed to dowry. He is also opposed to city living, to meddlesome neighbours, to wacky grandfathers and to caustic grandmothers. But when he’s blessed with all of the above, what’s man to do?
This is the first book I have read by Rasana Atreya. I usually don't read this type of book but I did enjoy it. Indian culture was very interesting and at times was overwhelming. Characters were great, especially Madhav's grandfather. He really made you laugh. I appreciated Madhav's love and support of his sister, Jaya. Great read. If you want something a little different, this would be a good one.
December 5, 2014
I loved the details in the story, how vivid I imagined India. Having been there before, it was easy to picture the village and smell the Madras filter coffee. The story itself, however, got off to a very slow start. When I felt there was going to be more action, such as Madha wanting to pursue marriage with Shyamala, I was rather disappointed by the lack of details to this venture. There were a lot of ups and downs in the plot and yet I am not entirely sure what the plot was. Was the central theme the relationship between Madha and his grandparents? I feel like at the end, time in the novel went by really fast, whereas in the beginning, it was very slow. I also didn't care for the amount of direct dialogue in the book. I wasn't thrilled with the ending either, I was expecting more than just a sudden end. Overall, I enjoyed the story and the writing and believe the author is talented. I look forward to more of her writings and would love recommendations of other author Indian authors.
April 19, 2017
28 Years A Bachelor is a rather lovely, warm-hearted family saga. Madhav works in a Hyderabad office, but his heart remains in the village inhabited by his eccentric grandfather and crotchety but loving grandmother. He also has his sister to worry about, who is mistreated by her overbearing in-laws.
There's a theme of unconventional families and mutual support in this that I really liked. Occasionally it feels like the book steers too close to being more a guide to Telugu familial and marriage traditions than a conventional narrative. However, it has a solid emotional core that carries the reader through. It's essentially a book about good things happening to good people, and sometimes that's just what you want.
There's a theme of unconventional families and mutual support in this that I really liked. Occasionally it feels like the book steers too close to being more a guide to Telugu familial and marriage traditions than a conventional narrative. However, it has a solid emotional core that carries the reader through. It's essentially a book about good things happening to good people, and sometimes that's just what you want.
October 1, 2015
28 Years a Bachelor was a well written book. It is a sweet story about a man who's parents are trying to marry him off and he ends up falling in love with a girl from his childhood. I have to admit, though I liked the story, it was really hard and frustrating for me to read because of all the different terms. I would click for the definition on my Kindle and it would say unknown, but about halfway through the book I discovered there was a glossary for the words used in the Telugu language and that made it so much easier. Other than that I really did like this book. The characters are perfectly described and you feel as though you are right there with them in the story. I loved learning about the culture throughout the book and how it has changed over the years as well. It was such a sweet love story with both Madhav and Shyamala as well as Madhav's grandparents.
October 26, 2014
In this cross between a thought-provoking novel and a fairy tale, Atreya captures the dichotomies of life in modern day India. She explores issues of family, city vs. country life, skin tone, and questions traditions....those that harm us and those that help us.
28 Years is an engaging, quick read....but not an easy read. While the book may be classified as humor, Atreya's good use of humor is needed to carry the reader, and her characters, through some very harsh life experiences.
The names and formal titles may be a slight challenge for American readers, but it's worth the read. This is an excellent book discussion title for all types of groups.
28 Years is an engaging, quick read....but not an easy read. While the book may be classified as humor, Atreya's good use of humor is needed to carry the reader, and her characters, through some very harsh life experiences.
The names and formal titles may be a slight challenge for American readers, but it's worth the read. This is an excellent book discussion title for all types of groups.
October 31, 2014
Fun and full of life that will draw the read into the drama, love, and demands of a family that is very interesting indeed! Learn about Indian culture and life in the village with descriptions that let you know you are in India. Anyone that becomes a part of this journey will soon find out what it takes to get a 28 year old bachelor married! Rasana Atreya is a beautiful writer that brings her characters alive. I am sure I have met them at least once or twice. The story and family are completely lovable!
January 23, 2015
Simple and a slightly funny tale depicting the life in present day modern and educated Hindu families and the lifestyle in both cities and villages.
The author has woven a tale that is so real and thought-provoking at the same time is humorous and entertaining.
For someone who wants to learn about the village culture or about Hindu culture, it is a very nice read.
Whole review : http://jigar-doshi.com/2015/01/28-yea...
The author has woven a tale that is so real and thought-provoking at the same time is humorous and entertaining.
For someone who wants to learn about the village culture or about Hindu culture, it is a very nice read.
Whole review : http://jigar-doshi.com/2015/01/28-yea...
July 28, 2015
Witty, insightful entertaining, and unexpected journey through multi-generational family, culture and custom. Follow Madhav as he assesses what is truly important in life through the love, loss, and interactions among his family and friends and the pursuit of his chosen wife (against his parents’ wishes). Full of characters that you will want to laugh and cry with, love and hate! Great read, highly recommend!
July 29, 2015
28 Years a Bachelor is a very good book! Reading about family traditions and caste system and the conflicts that are faced by the younger generations with these was very educational and entertaining. The storyline was easy to follow and this book is one I will recommend to others. I enjoyed reading this book from beginning til the end. My eyes even teared up near the end!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2015
This is a well written, highly entertaining look at Indian culture. For someone who's never been to India but enjoys multiple Indian friendships, it was an enlightening glimpse into the complex nature of Indian society. "28 Years a Bachelor" made me laugh, cry, and, at times, feel angry. I think this wide range of emotions is the sign of a great book; it definitely made for an interesting read!
January 28, 2017
A wonderful insight into Indian culture
The characters are vivid and real. They become people who are part of life, not just their own but mine as well. The balance of joy, longing and hope of ordinary people is carefully and consistently crafted. These are the kind of people I'd want for friends.
The characters are vivid and real. They become people who are part of life, not just their own but mine as well. The balance of joy, longing and hope of ordinary people is carefully and consistently crafted. These are the kind of people I'd want for friends.
June 10, 2022
Could not put it down
Beautifully written book with characters that spring to life & the village backgrounds are so real,I felt I was there watching everything first hand! Rasana has the gift & i love reading all her books
Beautifully written book with characters that spring to life & the village backgrounds are so real,I felt I was there watching everything first hand! Rasana has the gift & i love reading all her books
February 23, 2021
Charming
A sweet slice of life story exploring modern Indian life culture conflicts; young vs old, city vs village, obligation vs independence, tradition vs modernity.
A sweet slice of life story exploring modern Indian life culture conflicts; young vs old, city vs village, obligation vs independence, tradition vs modernity.
September 23, 2023
DNF at page 55.
I have no clue what's going on.
I have no clue what's going on.
December 22, 2024
This book was too much of a cliche to read in 2024. I might have enjoyed this 15 years ago but definitely does not stand up to the test of time.
January 12, 2018
quirky characters
Old ways vs new, city vs village. Interesting family dynamics and insight into Hindu religion. Glad I read it; finished it enlightened and amused.
Old ways vs new, city vs village. Interesting family dynamics and insight into Hindu religion. Glad I read it; finished it enlightened and amused.
December 20, 2015
If one grows up in a telugu family, one can relate to most part of the book. The book is set in hyderabad and a village nearby. Its the story of Madhav, his relationship with his parents, grandparents and his sister. what i liked in the book is the way Madhav takes care of his sister once she lost her husband. In this part of India being a widow is worse though things have become much better now, and that we can see in the book. The grandparent grandchildren relationship is very special is what i feel and in most cases grandparents rally with there grandchildren even though if its against their children's wish which is captured very well in the book. The characters like Murthy garu,Sudha aunt,Lingam garu we find almost in every household.
what i didnt liked in the book is the portrayal of amma, i would have loved to see her change if not after shreya's birth but atleast after madhav's grand parents demise.
Good read on the whole.
what i didnt liked in the book is the portrayal of amma, i would have loved to see her change if not after shreya's birth but atleast after madhav's grand parents demise.
Good read on the whole.
November 21, 2014
3.5 Stars
This was a good read for anyone interested in Indian cultural norms. It takes a couple chapters to get into, but once you get that far the story sweeps you along. Peppered with native terms, it makes you feel like you're really there. It is easy to hear the voices of the characters in your head. This book manages to touch on some serious issues without turning too dark. It really captures the essence of Indian values. Both the positives and negatives of Indian lifestyle are put on display without bias. The author does a good job of portraying how traditional customs are fighting/blending with modern ones. It is hard to capture such a rich cultural history in one story, but this novel certainly does it's best to show the complexities of custums one might find in India today.
This was a good read for anyone interested in Indian cultural norms. It takes a couple chapters to get into, but once you get that far the story sweeps you along. Peppered with native terms, it makes you feel like you're really there. It is easy to hear the voices of the characters in your head. This book manages to touch on some serious issues without turning too dark. It really captures the essence of Indian values. Both the positives and negatives of Indian lifestyle are put on display without bias. The author does a good job of portraying how traditional customs are fighting/blending with modern ones. It is hard to capture such a rich cultural history in one story, but this novel certainly does it's best to show the complexities of custums one might find in India today.
July 16, 2015
28 years a bachelor by rasana atreya
reviewed by kaila for cbr
So, this story was a lot different from my normal genre's and stories I like to read but it was cute. I loved the grandpa and the main guy. (sorry i can't spell names) Some of the content was shocking like their mom and the sister's in-laws and the fact that someone married at age 5. Some of it was confusing only because on my kindle I wasn't going to go to the back of the book to find out meanings of words, so I found them at the end lol. But, I enjoyed the sweetness and cuteness that was involved in a lot of this story. The main character guy made me wish more guys were like him. He was amazing and stood up for what he believed even if others didn't agree. I am glad I got to review this one
reviewed by kaila for cbr
So, this story was a lot different from my normal genre's and stories I like to read but it was cute. I loved the grandpa and the main guy. (sorry i can't spell names) Some of the content was shocking like their mom and the sister's in-laws and the fact that someone married at age 5. Some of it was confusing only because on my kindle I wasn't going to go to the back of the book to find out meanings of words, so I found them at the end lol. But, I enjoyed the sweetness and cuteness that was involved in a lot of this story. The main character guy made me wish more guys were like him. He was amazing and stood up for what he believed even if others didn't agree. I am glad I got to review this one
July 18, 2015
28 Years a Bachelor
by Rasana Atreya
Reviewed by Jaime Kurp
I haven’t read anything by this author and I had a hard time getting into the book. It is about an Indian man named Madhav. You read about his journey to find a wife and deal with all of his family. Madhav wants to make money in the city to repay his parents back, but he also wants to be in the village with his grandparents because he feels at peace there. Read this to learn if he ends up finding a wife and if he lives in the city or village. There are some sad parts and happy parts with some funny parts. I really liked Madhav’s grandparents. His grandfather was funny and a little odd, but his grandmother balanced him out. She was stern, but loving in her own way. A very well done story, a must read.
by Rasana Atreya
Reviewed by Jaime Kurp
I haven’t read anything by this author and I had a hard time getting into the book. It is about an Indian man named Madhav. You read about his journey to find a wife and deal with all of his family. Madhav wants to make money in the city to repay his parents back, but he also wants to be in the village with his grandparents because he feels at peace there. Read this to learn if he ends up finding a wife and if he lives in the city or village. There are some sad parts and happy parts with some funny parts. I really liked Madhav’s grandparents. His grandfather was funny and a little odd, but his grandmother balanced him out. She was stern, but loving in her own way. A very well done story, a must read.
February 3, 2015
Nice book - a feel good read. The descriptions are very nice and gives a feel of culture of the Indian state of Andhrapradesh. Written in clear, lucid language - it is a kind of modern fairy tale of sorts. The story also has lot of the popular social messages - against child marriage, inter relegious marriage, anti dowry, care for the female child etc. Nothing out of the way or exceptional but readable,
November 29, 2015
amazin book! must read for review click on the link
http://bookreviewsandauthors.blogspot...
http://bookreviewsandauthors.blogspot...
March 21, 2016
Love it
Just like a typical Bollywood movie, having comedy,drama, suspense. Amazing book, very much enjoyed all the way up to the end
Just like a typical Bollywood movie, having comedy,drama, suspense. Amazing book, very much enjoyed all the way up to the end
October 28, 2016
typical melodrama...
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews