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The Bridal Pyre - Nainam Dahati Pawakah
The Bridal Pyre - Nainam Dahati Pawakah is the debut novel of Avantika Debnath. She is a writer at heart and dancer at soul but to earn a living she works as an HR professional in a multinational company.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 17, 2015
Since my 5 months long holiday in that country, India had attracted me for its rich culture. I have read many books of Indian Authors to know the culture and Hinduism better. My friend had hence sent the pdf format of this book, and I cant decline that it has certainly contributed my knowledge and awe for the rituals of this country.
The book has a detailed description of a Hindu marriage ceremony that seems interesting to someone who is alien to it, for an Indian it might be lengthy and too descriptive though. A number of references to the religious aspect of the character Meera could have been explained in details, like the ref. of a shloka from Bhagwat Geeta. Not sure if the author had the international audience's understanding in consideration while she was plotting the story.
The story focuses on the plight of an "Indian Woman" and the journey towards eternal peace. I have traveled across the globe for my job, and have mingled with women of various culture. I have to say, it is not only India, but most of the countries of the world, even the modern west like US and UK where domestic violence is a regular thing. But the culture of the west has accepted divorced women in its society, where as countries of middle east and south west still stigmatizes a divorced woman. Hence they are forced to live an unhealthy loveless marriage. I am glad that the Indian protagonist in the Bridal Pyre, thought hailing from an equally conservative family could break out of the marriage.
The next thing that impressed me was the protagonists decision to turn down the job offer in Dallas and choosing to stay back in her own country.
The book has a detailed description of a Hindu marriage ceremony that seems interesting to someone who is alien to it, for an Indian it might be lengthy and too descriptive though. A number of references to the religious aspect of the character Meera could have been explained in details, like the ref. of a shloka from Bhagwat Geeta. Not sure if the author had the international audience's understanding in consideration while she was plotting the story.
The story focuses on the plight of an "Indian Woman" and the journey towards eternal peace. I have traveled across the globe for my job, and have mingled with women of various culture. I have to say, it is not only India, but most of the countries of the world, even the modern west like US and UK where domestic violence is a regular thing. But the culture of the west has accepted divorced women in its society, where as countries of middle east and south west still stigmatizes a divorced woman. Hence they are forced to live an unhealthy loveless marriage. I am glad that the Indian protagonist in the Bridal Pyre, thought hailing from an equally conservative family could break out of the marriage.
The next thing that impressed me was the protagonists decision to turn down the job offer in Dallas and choosing to stay back in her own country.
September 7, 2015
I think it was an amazing work by someone who is writing a novel for the first time. I got it from my sister and thought it to be another female rant, but truly depicted the hollowness of the laws meant for the protection of women rights. I loved the scene at the police station because even the minutest detail like the inspector picking his ear was described in details.
September 27, 2015
I got this book from the author in exchange for honest review.
The story revolves around the protagonist,Meera .The character of Meera seems to be like real.I could feel it. Meera is a compound of various strong women I have come across in life.
When you read the book, you being an educated Indian woman will identify with her. But how she handles the challenges thrown at her by life is what makes her extraordinary.
Right from the childhood ,girls are mistreated and not give right type of education to stand on their own feet. To compete with boys.
The story throws light on some important topic found in our society culture, about cruelty towards women,t hide their pain,to make adjustments,remain dumb and vulnerable.
.
LIKES:- The best part of the book was the flow of the story which will force you not to leave the book till you finish it. I am totally impressed with the imagination and writing style of the Author and waiting to read more from her.
I would give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The story revolves around the protagonist,Meera .The character of Meera seems to be like real.I could feel it. Meera is a compound of various strong women I have come across in life.
When you read the book, you being an educated Indian woman will identify with her. But how she handles the challenges thrown at her by life is what makes her extraordinary.
Right from the childhood ,girls are mistreated and not give right type of education to stand on their own feet. To compete with boys.
The story throws light on some important topic found in our society culture, about cruelty towards women,t hide their pain,to make adjustments,remain dumb and vulnerable.
.
LIKES:- The best part of the book was the flow of the story which will force you not to leave the book till you finish it. I am totally impressed with the imagination and writing style of the Author and waiting to read more from her.
I would give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
September 27, 2015
The wrath and fury of a woman is the most dangerous thing on this planet. Avantika debnath justifies this to the fullest. A terrifyingly real, frightening and heart wrenching tale of Meera's journey from marriage to misery, this one is a lovely book. There is a feeling of helplessness and hopelessness which always looms when you are reading the book- it is this aspect that makes the novel an outstanding one. No cliches, no filmy instances, this one literally plays in front of your eyes; so much so that you feel like shouting out to meera "Get out of this house and end this misery forever."
Avantika gives a vivid description of the sad state of bureacracy in our country. But as they say, God is the biggest judge. And when you angry a woman, you angry God.
Overall, i highly recommend this book. A poignant read, it only enhanced my respect for women. They truly suffer a lot than us men. Thank you Avantika.
Avantika gives a vivid description of the sad state of bureacracy in our country. But as they say, God is the biggest judge. And when you angry a woman, you angry God.
Overall, i highly recommend this book. A poignant read, it only enhanced my respect for women. They truly suffer a lot than us men. Thank you Avantika.
November 7, 2016
The Bridal Pyre
“Yes, this happened to me. And yes, again. I am an educated, English speaking, jeans wearing, beauty parlour visiting, shopping mall frequenting modern city girl. But when I was going through these sufferings at my in laws house, my degrees, mystilettos or the leather belt didn’t jump out of the closet to stop my husband, or his parents. The mall or the parlour people didn’t stay at my matrimonial house with me to guard me. When an uneducated mother in law from a village drenches the saree of her daughter in law in kerosine and lights up a match stick, the girl’s fluency in English does not intimidate the mother in law much, you see. No matter how eduacted or modern she is, she is one woman, all alone surrounded by her barbaric in laws” I replied disgusted at the mindset of these against the modern India woman....
The Bridal Pyre By Avantika Debnath
Recently Supreme court passed a judgement that a husband can divorce a wife who tries to separate the son from her aged parents. Good judement indeed... Great applause for the judgement in social, visual and print media. But have we analysed why the wife wants and tries to separate the husband from his family? I request you to go through the novel “The Bridal Pyre” By Avantika Debnath. The novel fantastically portrays the true picture of a woman undergoing trauma and turmoil in her in law’s house.
Meera , just like every woman in India, enters her matrimonial house with lot of dreams, leaving her family, friends, job. What does marriage gift her? A spineless husband who does not question his parents, who does not give her a shoulder to lean on and cry, whose pride does not allow the wife to go for a job as it will affect his family name if wife earns to make the family’s both ends meet, who still drives the wife to get money from father in law....
A mother in law who has illicit affair with her husband’s friend... who had killed her mother in law... who questions daughter in law for putting her legs on her husband(it calls for ill luck of the husband in her opinion) and separates the couple at night, who snatches all the jewels and money of the daughter in law still finds fault with her every action.... A father in law who is not capable of controlling his wife... who, to his share, tortures the daughter in law equally.....
Meera still adjusts, adjusts, keeps on adjusting... She is the true picture of an Indian girl who hides her tears in her smile; who never lets her parents know the problems she is facing in her matrimonial house. She faces mental and physical agony in the house. The only person who wipes off her tears is Toffee, her dog. No human being is on her side. She loses her unborn child. But the most painful loss was her brain child, her novel which she had completed and sent to publishers. She becomes lifeless, still tries to adjust upto the point when she realises that further adjustment will lead to her death.
The first part deals with her suffering in her in laws’ hands where the second part picturizes her struggle against the corrupt soceity. She runs every nook and corner in search of justice. Every single aspect of society slaps her and she keeps running. One or two honest people she meets, who, as well pushed down by the corrupt elements of the soceity. The novel clearly picturizes that justice is denied even for educated, modern Indian women.
The novel is not the story a single woman... A true picture of an Indian woman...A complete portrayal of a modern city woman..... There is no exaggeration anywhere in the novel. It is unbelievable that it is a debut novel. It looks like a novel written by an experienced novelist. To grab your copy, click here... http://www.amazon.in/Bridal-Pyre-Nain...
“Yes, this happened to me. And yes, again. I am an educated, English speaking, jeans wearing, beauty parlour visiting, shopping mall frequenting modern city girl. But when I was going through these sufferings at my in laws house, my degrees, mystilettos or the leather belt didn’t jump out of the closet to stop my husband, or his parents. The mall or the parlour people didn’t stay at my matrimonial house with me to guard me. When an uneducated mother in law from a village drenches the saree of her daughter in law in kerosine and lights up a match stick, the girl’s fluency in English does not intimidate the mother in law much, you see. No matter how eduacted or modern she is, she is one woman, all alone surrounded by her barbaric in laws” I replied disgusted at the mindset of these against the modern India woman....
The Bridal Pyre By Avantika Debnath
Recently Supreme court passed a judgement that a husband can divorce a wife who tries to separate the son from her aged parents. Good judement indeed... Great applause for the judgement in social, visual and print media. But have we analysed why the wife wants and tries to separate the husband from his family? I request you to go through the novel “The Bridal Pyre” By Avantika Debnath. The novel fantastically portrays the true picture of a woman undergoing trauma and turmoil in her in law’s house.
Meera , just like every woman in India, enters her matrimonial house with lot of dreams, leaving her family, friends, job. What does marriage gift her? A spineless husband who does not question his parents, who does not give her a shoulder to lean on and cry, whose pride does not allow the wife to go for a job as it will affect his family name if wife earns to make the family’s both ends meet, who still drives the wife to get money from father in law....
A mother in law who has illicit affair with her husband’s friend... who had killed her mother in law... who questions daughter in law for putting her legs on her husband(it calls for ill luck of the husband in her opinion) and separates the couple at night, who snatches all the jewels and money of the daughter in law still finds fault with her every action.... A father in law who is not capable of controlling his wife... who, to his share, tortures the daughter in law equally.....
Meera still adjusts, adjusts, keeps on adjusting... She is the true picture of an Indian girl who hides her tears in her smile; who never lets her parents know the problems she is facing in her matrimonial house. She faces mental and physical agony in the house. The only person who wipes off her tears is Toffee, her dog. No human being is on her side. She loses her unborn child. But the most painful loss was her brain child, her novel which she had completed and sent to publishers. She becomes lifeless, still tries to adjust upto the point when she realises that further adjustment will lead to her death.
The first part deals with her suffering in her in laws’ hands where the second part picturizes her struggle against the corrupt soceity. She runs every nook and corner in search of justice. Every single aspect of society slaps her and she keeps running. One or two honest people she meets, who, as well pushed down by the corrupt elements of the soceity. The novel clearly picturizes that justice is denied even for educated, modern Indian women.
The novel is not the story a single woman... A true picture of an Indian woman...A complete portrayal of a modern city woman..... There is no exaggeration anywhere in the novel. It is unbelievable that it is a debut novel. It looks like a novel written by an experienced novelist. To grab your copy, click here... http://www.amazon.in/Bridal-Pyre-Nain...
May 24, 2017
Hello, friends. How are you doing?
Welcome to my review of The Bridal Pyre by Avantika Debnath. This is not a sponsored review but I was given a free copy of the book by the author in exchange for my honest review, for which I am grateful. Thank you, friend.
I was excited to delve into this book for multiple reasons. Ever since I read The Namesake, I’ve been more so intrigued about Indian culture than I was before. I could relate to the immigrant’s familial experiences but not to the Indian culture, so I am glad that I have another opportunity to dive into this beautiful world.
In the brief biography at the start of the book, the author says she always wanted to be a novelist and is pleased that this is her debut work, and I am too. I love hearing people achieve their dreams and accomplish the things they’ve wanted to for years, so this warms my heart.
The poem before the prologue is beautiful and lyrical, and it makes me look at myself critically. Am I my own fear? Am I the one who betrays my own trust? It makes me question things, which I believe is an aspect of good literature.
The book is written in a conversational tone, and if you’ve seen some of my earlier reviews, you’ll know that that is something I love in books. If it feels like you and the narrator are friends exchanging ideas rather than an having an omnipresent being lecturing you and spitting plot at you. I prefer the former. Very much so. And this book feels like a calm chitchat with a pal of mine.
The Bridal Pyre is centered around our protagonist, Meera. And it’s not a typical story of love between a man and woman, woman and woman, or man and man. It’s a story of a modern Indian woman learning to love herself by disallowing those unworthy of touching her from doing so. It’s a story of how the feminine in us can also be the strongest and most relentless, despite any stereotypes.
Like I tend to do, I pick out some beautiful lines in the books I read to come back to later on. Here’s the first one that stuck out to me.
“There were plentiful apple and plum trees and we ate dozens of apples every day. Those were the fruits of nature and Mother Nature never claimed a penny for the delicious rejoice.”
That line is not only beautifully written, but it also makes me think. Mother Nature doesn't ask us for anything in return for all the fruits and seeds she bears for us, so shouldn't we treat her as well as possible in exchange? A bit of literary persuasion for going green.
The description on page 18 of how gossip was the only entertainment for the womenfolk in the internet-less days reminds me of how my mother said, back when she lived in the Soviet Union and she’d walk home from school there would be a group of women sitting outside of her apartment building always chatting and asking about boys and drama and family issues. Looks like some things are universal.
This line isn’t necessarily one that creates a nice image, but it is written beautifully. “Hence, her mother needed a good lesson which could only be taught by hitting her with the cane that Shaheen’s father used to control the cattle.
Here’s a good snippet: “She assured that God won’t punish me because I was just a little girl and according to Hinduism, no one gets penalized by God for mistakes made before the age of 11. I was feeling so light and relaxed. I, at that tender age, believed that my mom knew everything. No one knows anything better than her, she is so right. Today, at the ripe age of 28, I can say, she was so wrong. Torturing a woman doesn’t have anything to do with he educational degrees or the affluence level.” I think that’s an important tidbit to remember. Domestic abuse doesn’t really pick and choose its victims. And Meera knew that her mother was wrong after she was punished for something that was not even her fault. This made me sad.
I think this quote is kinda funny: “Was I irritated? Was I impressed? Despite the irritation I was quite impressed.” Hehe.
Here’s another: “Love can’t hide itself, it’s that stupid. Love at the age of fifteen would pour through the eyes. I have a pair of big Bengali eyes so it pours more spontaneously through them.”
There’s an allusion slash connection I have to make. Though this book is not one I would typically pick up on my own, the little gems of sentences that I find such as the previous few I showed you made this book feel like a Sharon Creech work. Though I may not have been that invested in the story at first, the beautifully written quotes and examples of stellar imagery kept me hopping along, reading the story, jumping from stone to stone, crossing the river. But sure enough, books being the special magic that they are, by page 35, I found myself reading faster than I had a few minutes before.
I love the questions the narrator presents to the reader. It reminds me of the way I think, since I ask myself the meaning of things or the reasoning behind things I am doing. And here’s another cute one that I could relate to so hard: “It was a hot June afternoon. I was thirsty…There was a companion but no communication. But still I wished that my entire life would shrink into that walk. What else do you need if you are walking beside all that you need?” I feel it. In past relationships I could have been simply walking silently side by side with my human and I would feel content and comfort beyond all boundaries. God, I’m so lonely. But for a real relationship. Not the one that poor Meera has to suffer through in hopes of receiving unconditional love.
Throughout reading this book I still cannot decide if the phrase Mother knows best holds true, or if that’s an outdated concept. It’s crazy how much her in laws want to control and judge her. It hurts me. She’s an adult. She doesn't need her parents’ permission or her in laws permission to do things. Her in laws remind me a lot of certain people I have dealt with. Incessant judgment and opinions when they aren't asked for. It’s painful, and I’ve felt it before. Her husband and his family make me so goddamn mad. I understand it is a different culture but poor Meera does not deserve this treatment. She thinks she is being punished for her past but I believe that is unjust. And here’s another thing that broke my heart. “And here Abhi finds his new interest, my debit card.”
I wish i could just pluck Meera out of this relationship. I ache for her, but cannot do anything so instead I keep reading to find out how she ends up dealing with this.
The only real bit of critique or “I wish” things I have for this book is that if I were given more details I would have liked it even more. Some parts jumped from one to another rather rapidly when I would have liked to sit and linger and spend some time on the previous topic before jumping to the next. And as expected, there were some foreign pieces of text that I wished so desperately to understand. What I do understand is that although I do not believe I was the intended demographic for this book, I enjoyed it. The eloquence and vividness of Debnath’s descriptive sentences make up for the occasional grammatical slip-up. And although there may be issues with the wording on a small scale, the plot doesn’t have holes. And it’s beautifully designed. Debnath’s ability to create a story is mesmerizing, as it all weaves together so intricately and expertly.
For a novel written in what I assume to be the author’s second or third language, the eloquence is impeccable. I learned Russian before I learned English, though being born in America I consider English my better language. I would never be able to write a book of this level in Russian, despite having learned that language first. Avantika, I applaud you, this is an achievement I personally wish I were able to claim for myself as well but know I won’t be able to. That fact alone is incredible and makes this book even better than it already is.
I was given a copy of the non-final PDF file so I am not going to make any comments or critique concerning spelling or grammar mistakes as I am sure those were corrected in the final book.
I know the first thing I commented on is the poem before the prologue but I think that may actually be one of my favorite things about this book. I keep coming back to it. It’s a good example of imagery surrounding the best and worst aspects of one’s character, especially that of your own.
My final thought is that I need to get a physical copy of this book. I love owning each and every book I’ve read and liked, and this is no exception. I must get it, and I recommend you should too, if you’re looking for a unique perspective on a culture that may not be familiar to you otherwise.
Welcome to my review of The Bridal Pyre by Avantika Debnath. This is not a sponsored review but I was given a free copy of the book by the author in exchange for my honest review, for which I am grateful. Thank you, friend.
I was excited to delve into this book for multiple reasons. Ever since I read The Namesake, I’ve been more so intrigued about Indian culture than I was before. I could relate to the immigrant’s familial experiences but not to the Indian culture, so I am glad that I have another opportunity to dive into this beautiful world.
In the brief biography at the start of the book, the author says she always wanted to be a novelist and is pleased that this is her debut work, and I am too. I love hearing people achieve their dreams and accomplish the things they’ve wanted to for years, so this warms my heart.
The poem before the prologue is beautiful and lyrical, and it makes me look at myself critically. Am I my own fear? Am I the one who betrays my own trust? It makes me question things, which I believe is an aspect of good literature.
The book is written in a conversational tone, and if you’ve seen some of my earlier reviews, you’ll know that that is something I love in books. If it feels like you and the narrator are friends exchanging ideas rather than an having an omnipresent being lecturing you and spitting plot at you. I prefer the former. Very much so. And this book feels like a calm chitchat with a pal of mine.
The Bridal Pyre is centered around our protagonist, Meera. And it’s not a typical story of love between a man and woman, woman and woman, or man and man. It’s a story of a modern Indian woman learning to love herself by disallowing those unworthy of touching her from doing so. It’s a story of how the feminine in us can also be the strongest and most relentless, despite any stereotypes.
Like I tend to do, I pick out some beautiful lines in the books I read to come back to later on. Here’s the first one that stuck out to me.
“There were plentiful apple and plum trees and we ate dozens of apples every day. Those were the fruits of nature and Mother Nature never claimed a penny for the delicious rejoice.”
That line is not only beautifully written, but it also makes me think. Mother Nature doesn't ask us for anything in return for all the fruits and seeds she bears for us, so shouldn't we treat her as well as possible in exchange? A bit of literary persuasion for going green.
The description on page 18 of how gossip was the only entertainment for the womenfolk in the internet-less days reminds me of how my mother said, back when she lived in the Soviet Union and she’d walk home from school there would be a group of women sitting outside of her apartment building always chatting and asking about boys and drama and family issues. Looks like some things are universal.
This line isn’t necessarily one that creates a nice image, but it is written beautifully. “Hence, her mother needed a good lesson which could only be taught by hitting her with the cane that Shaheen’s father used to control the cattle.
Here’s a good snippet: “She assured that God won’t punish me because I was just a little girl and according to Hinduism, no one gets penalized by God for mistakes made before the age of 11. I was feeling so light and relaxed. I, at that tender age, believed that my mom knew everything. No one knows anything better than her, she is so right. Today, at the ripe age of 28, I can say, she was so wrong. Torturing a woman doesn’t have anything to do with he educational degrees or the affluence level.” I think that’s an important tidbit to remember. Domestic abuse doesn’t really pick and choose its victims. And Meera knew that her mother was wrong after she was punished for something that was not even her fault. This made me sad.
I think this quote is kinda funny: “Was I irritated? Was I impressed? Despite the irritation I was quite impressed.” Hehe.
Here’s another: “Love can’t hide itself, it’s that stupid. Love at the age of fifteen would pour through the eyes. I have a pair of big Bengali eyes so it pours more spontaneously through them.”
There’s an allusion slash connection I have to make. Though this book is not one I would typically pick up on my own, the little gems of sentences that I find such as the previous few I showed you made this book feel like a Sharon Creech work. Though I may not have been that invested in the story at first, the beautifully written quotes and examples of stellar imagery kept me hopping along, reading the story, jumping from stone to stone, crossing the river. But sure enough, books being the special magic that they are, by page 35, I found myself reading faster than I had a few minutes before.
I love the questions the narrator presents to the reader. It reminds me of the way I think, since I ask myself the meaning of things or the reasoning behind things I am doing. And here’s another cute one that I could relate to so hard: “It was a hot June afternoon. I was thirsty…There was a companion but no communication. But still I wished that my entire life would shrink into that walk. What else do you need if you are walking beside all that you need?” I feel it. In past relationships I could have been simply walking silently side by side with my human and I would feel content and comfort beyond all boundaries. God, I’m so lonely. But for a real relationship. Not the one that poor Meera has to suffer through in hopes of receiving unconditional love.
Throughout reading this book I still cannot decide if the phrase Mother knows best holds true, or if that’s an outdated concept. It’s crazy how much her in laws want to control and judge her. It hurts me. She’s an adult. She doesn't need her parents’ permission or her in laws permission to do things. Her in laws remind me a lot of certain people I have dealt with. Incessant judgment and opinions when they aren't asked for. It’s painful, and I’ve felt it before. Her husband and his family make me so goddamn mad. I understand it is a different culture but poor Meera does not deserve this treatment. She thinks she is being punished for her past but I believe that is unjust. And here’s another thing that broke my heart. “And here Abhi finds his new interest, my debit card.”
I wish i could just pluck Meera out of this relationship. I ache for her, but cannot do anything so instead I keep reading to find out how she ends up dealing with this.
The only real bit of critique or “I wish” things I have for this book is that if I were given more details I would have liked it even more. Some parts jumped from one to another rather rapidly when I would have liked to sit and linger and spend some time on the previous topic before jumping to the next. And as expected, there were some foreign pieces of text that I wished so desperately to understand. What I do understand is that although I do not believe I was the intended demographic for this book, I enjoyed it. The eloquence and vividness of Debnath’s descriptive sentences make up for the occasional grammatical slip-up. And although there may be issues with the wording on a small scale, the plot doesn’t have holes. And it’s beautifully designed. Debnath’s ability to create a story is mesmerizing, as it all weaves together so intricately and expertly.
For a novel written in what I assume to be the author’s second or third language, the eloquence is impeccable. I learned Russian before I learned English, though being born in America I consider English my better language. I would never be able to write a book of this level in Russian, despite having learned that language first. Avantika, I applaud you, this is an achievement I personally wish I were able to claim for myself as well but know I won’t be able to. That fact alone is incredible and makes this book even better than it already is.
I was given a copy of the non-final PDF file so I am not going to make any comments or critique concerning spelling or grammar mistakes as I am sure those were corrected in the final book.
I know the first thing I commented on is the poem before the prologue but I think that may actually be one of my favorite things about this book. I keep coming back to it. It’s a good example of imagery surrounding the best and worst aspects of one’s character, especially that of your own.
My final thought is that I need to get a physical copy of this book. I love owning each and every book I’ve read and liked, and this is no exception. I must get it, and I recommend you should too, if you’re looking for a unique perspective on a culture that may not be familiar to you otherwise.
September 27, 2015
“Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced”. This is what Avantika Debnath tries to convey through her debut novel The Bridal Pyre in which she portrays how life undergoes changes unknowingly with each and every incident that is happening in course of our life. We have no control over them and the only thing we can do is reacting to the situation accordingly.
The 253-page long paperback spins round the life of a young girl Meera born in the metro city Kolkata. It is about a young charming lady, who, like any other city girl, dreams of living a life very peacefully. She was very satisfied with what has life given to her till then. Meera, the story-teller, reveals how life has been beautiful for her and her parents since her childhood days. Everything was going fine for them and nothing could have changed that. However that was not to be. As we all know man proposes but God disposes, Meera, the protagonist faced a new challenge in her life as she decided to get married to a man who has been working in USA after completing his studies there. Meera always wanted to provide a perfect life for her family and all she wanted was a caring loving husband, but the course of her life takes a drastic turn after that dreaded night when she got married to that man whom she had never met in person but used to have prolonged conversation through the social media.
As the narrative progresses linearly we get to know what Meera faces in the new episode of her life. The author then takes the opportunity to bring into limelight the corrupt system that prevails in India under the veil as she sets out on a journey in course of which everyone comes out displaying their own colour when required to perform to their duty. She never asks for any sort of favour to be done to her but all she wants is justice. And that seems something very exotic as she is denied by the society, the futile laws of her motherland, the law keepers and the wasted leaders of the nation not for once, but on repeated occasions.
At this juncture, Toffee, the pet dog, deserves special mention as the author manages to portray the humanly nature in a non-human creature. What Meera expected from a human being was somewhat provided by a four-legged creature. At times Meera herself felt like a non-human creature as she compares herself with the pet, after being locked inside a room. The simple impression that we get here is of pain stretched to a breaking point, pain prolonged beyond all endurance.
It has been an act of real courage as the author reveals how the systems prevailing in India works in a corrupted way. Also the fact that she has chosen to depict the condition of women in India even in the 21st century when women are no way regarded as less than men, both in intelligence and strength, deserves special mention. However while going through the pages the reader might find the novel a bit lacking in pace in the early stages, but she manages to keep the readers engrossed with the presentation of the events. Also the use of poetry in course of the narration enables the author to bind the loose ends which have often been left behind.
Also it’s true that any piece of literary creation catches the imagination of the readers by virtue of its title, which transforms itself into an index of the story’s main concerns. In a paperback fiction, the title often provides us with a glimpse of what the focal point of the story might be. And Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre has in itself a profound appeal in such a striking title. The reader right from the cover page gets aware of what the story is going to be. The title carries with it suggestions of the existential crisis of women in India where a female individual has no other alternative but to exist as an alienated being in a hospitalized world. In that sense the title provides a commentary on the predicament of women existence on the soil of India.
So brace yourselves to face the brutal reality if you are deciding to grab a copy of The Bridal Pyre by Avantika Debnath. One thing you can be assured of, it will be one of a rollercoaster ride.
The 253-page long paperback spins round the life of a young girl Meera born in the metro city Kolkata. It is about a young charming lady, who, like any other city girl, dreams of living a life very peacefully. She was very satisfied with what has life given to her till then. Meera, the story-teller, reveals how life has been beautiful for her and her parents since her childhood days. Everything was going fine for them and nothing could have changed that. However that was not to be. As we all know man proposes but God disposes, Meera, the protagonist faced a new challenge in her life as she decided to get married to a man who has been working in USA after completing his studies there. Meera always wanted to provide a perfect life for her family and all she wanted was a caring loving husband, but the course of her life takes a drastic turn after that dreaded night when she got married to that man whom she had never met in person but used to have prolonged conversation through the social media.
As the narrative progresses linearly we get to know what Meera faces in the new episode of her life. The author then takes the opportunity to bring into limelight the corrupt system that prevails in India under the veil as she sets out on a journey in course of which everyone comes out displaying their own colour when required to perform to their duty. She never asks for any sort of favour to be done to her but all she wants is justice. And that seems something very exotic as she is denied by the society, the futile laws of her motherland, the law keepers and the wasted leaders of the nation not for once, but on repeated occasions.
At this juncture, Toffee, the pet dog, deserves special mention as the author manages to portray the humanly nature in a non-human creature. What Meera expected from a human being was somewhat provided by a four-legged creature. At times Meera herself felt like a non-human creature as she compares herself with the pet, after being locked inside a room. The simple impression that we get here is of pain stretched to a breaking point, pain prolonged beyond all endurance.
It has been an act of real courage as the author reveals how the systems prevailing in India works in a corrupted way. Also the fact that she has chosen to depict the condition of women in India even in the 21st century when women are no way regarded as less than men, both in intelligence and strength, deserves special mention. However while going through the pages the reader might find the novel a bit lacking in pace in the early stages, but she manages to keep the readers engrossed with the presentation of the events. Also the use of poetry in course of the narration enables the author to bind the loose ends which have often been left behind.
Also it’s true that any piece of literary creation catches the imagination of the readers by virtue of its title, which transforms itself into an index of the story’s main concerns. In a paperback fiction, the title often provides us with a glimpse of what the focal point of the story might be. And Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre has in itself a profound appeal in such a striking title. The reader right from the cover page gets aware of what the story is going to be. The title carries with it suggestions of the existential crisis of women in India where a female individual has no other alternative but to exist as an alienated being in a hospitalized world. In that sense the title provides a commentary on the predicament of women existence on the soil of India.
So brace yourselves to face the brutal reality if you are deciding to grab a copy of The Bridal Pyre by Avantika Debnath. One thing you can be assured of, it will be one of a rollercoaster ride.
September 22, 2015
The position of a woman in society is in every age a difficult one as the very task of asserting her identity and individuality in a world governed by patriarchy is always a precarious one.To make matters when women due to wrong education or no education at all and their social conditioning starts exploiting the other women it becomes all the more alarming.The woman is mostly treated as a commodity or an object that is used for the personal interest of the people in power.Meera in Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah,traverses this difficult journey as she desperately tries to assert her identity and command some consideration which unfortunately none of the central characters of the novel offer.The Subtitle of the novel Nainam Dahati Pawakah has its origin in the Bhagavada Gita,Chapter 2.23 meaning “The soul can never be cut into pieces by any weapon, nor can he be burned by fire, nor moistened by water, nor withered by the wind.” This automatically brings to our mind the evocative lines from Maya Angelou’s Still I Rise “You may shoot me with your words,/You may cut me with your eyes,/You may kill me with your hatefulness,/But still like air, I rise.”
The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah is a journal of a lady’s journey from a girl till the attainment of her womanhood.Here the journey is not be understood as a mere travelogue,it by passes the geographical realms and goes deeper down into the psyche.It is not only one Meera’s journey but of several Meeras alike.Meera represents all the suppressed,gagged,unheard,unacknowledged,ever-marginalised,deprieved,uncared women of the society.Her plight is not her owns but of the entire community.In this context,it is worth mentioning that the title of the novel has somewhat a latent hint to Sita’s ‘agnipariksha’.It should be not very wrong to comment that Sita’s fate was certainly a failure of patriarchy and so is Meera’s.However,the conviction or the determination with which she decides to fight against her odds is highly commendable.The change of characterisation,her evolution from a girl to a lady and then onto a woman is something that Debnath has put quite eloquently on paper through her pen.One actually seems to be a part of the journey journeyed by Meera while reading the text.The crisp,colloquial and fresh language sparkles throughout the length and breadth of the text.The various moods captured of Meera through pen on paper,be it when she is being subjected to domestic violence,or when her manuscript is deleted by Abhi or even when she loses her unborn child have been some of the poignant reminders to the readers of the fact the kind of atrocities women are subjected to even in an age when Sania Mirza and Saina Nehwal keep bringing laurels and Mamata Banerjee and Sonia Gandhi keep leading their respective Governments.
Feminism and Gender Studies are much debated genres in the present day.This has been a pertinent area of discussion and has been under constant scanner since still much needs to be done to give women their due respect and honour.Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah will surely make your blood boil with rage and at the same time proud of being a true woman,a woman who embodies power,if you are the one possessing the ‘Fair Sex’ and will certainly leave you in absolute shame and powerlessness if you are a man and not a ‘Mard’.
This week leave all your work aside and grab a copy of Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah I bet you will not regret!Oh did I say regret?You will not be able to resist the temptation of completing the journey of her womanhood once you start traverssing with her When she is even merely a 3 year old child!
Review by Subhojoy Ghosh
The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah is a journal of a lady’s journey from a girl till the attainment of her womanhood.Here the journey is not be understood as a mere travelogue,it by passes the geographical realms and goes deeper down into the psyche.It is not only one Meera’s journey but of several Meeras alike.Meera represents all the suppressed,gagged,unheard,unacknowledged,ever-marginalised,deprieved,uncared women of the society.Her plight is not her owns but of the entire community.In this context,it is worth mentioning that the title of the novel has somewhat a latent hint to Sita’s ‘agnipariksha’.It should be not very wrong to comment that Sita’s fate was certainly a failure of patriarchy and so is Meera’s.However,the conviction or the determination with which she decides to fight against her odds is highly commendable.The change of characterisation,her evolution from a girl to a lady and then onto a woman is something that Debnath has put quite eloquently on paper through her pen.One actually seems to be a part of the journey journeyed by Meera while reading the text.The crisp,colloquial and fresh language sparkles throughout the length and breadth of the text.The various moods captured of Meera through pen on paper,be it when she is being subjected to domestic violence,or when her manuscript is deleted by Abhi or even when she loses her unborn child have been some of the poignant reminders to the readers of the fact the kind of atrocities women are subjected to even in an age when Sania Mirza and Saina Nehwal keep bringing laurels and Mamata Banerjee and Sonia Gandhi keep leading their respective Governments.
Feminism and Gender Studies are much debated genres in the present day.This has been a pertinent area of discussion and has been under constant scanner since still much needs to be done to give women their due respect and honour.Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah will surely make your blood boil with rage and at the same time proud of being a true woman,a woman who embodies power,if you are the one possessing the ‘Fair Sex’ and will certainly leave you in absolute shame and powerlessness if you are a man and not a ‘Mard’.
This week leave all your work aside and grab a copy of Avantika Debnath’s The Bridal Pyre:Nainam Dahati Pawakah I bet you will not regret!Oh did I say regret?You will not be able to resist the temptation of completing the journey of her womanhood once you start traverssing with her When she is even merely a 3 year old child!
Review by Subhojoy Ghosh
September 27, 2015
“Man never made any material as resilient as human spirit” said Burn Williams, which is the essence of Avantika Debnath’s debut novel “The Bridal Pyre: Nainam Dahati Pawakah”- the human soul being indestructible and indomitable even in the face of unspeakable torments.
Meera, the protagonist, is a city girl- modern, educated, smart and talented. An only daughter of a retired army officer who could not complete his education due to money constraints, Meera was given the liberty and the opportunity to realize her full potentialities, to dream big and to attain those dreams. But along with the dreams of having a successful career and of getting her novel published, Meera had one more dream- that of getting married, of having a loving and dotting husband, of having her very own “happily ever after” and Abhi had promised all this, and more. But the day she stepped into the house of her in-laws in a small town Ashanagar, all her dreams, hopes and expectations were nipped in the bud. From physical and mental abuse to demand for more and more money from Meera’s father, she has to face it all and her tale becomes one with that of so many women around the world. But the day her mother-in-law pushes her down the stairs leading to her miscarriage, Meera puts her foot down and decides to fight back.
Violence against women is the most prevalent and most persisting social menace, awareness of which has been on a rise and Debnath in her novel makes a bold statement against it. Meera’s plight, her incessant humiliation, the crushing of her dreams become synonymous with the fate of thousands of women around the world, as also her fight for justice for the baby she could never see, never hold in her arms, the baby that she lost, strikes a chord with all humanity. The hollowness and pretences of patriarchal society and the deep rooted corruption in our political and judiciary system are ruthlessly exposed by the author.
The easy, informal language of the novel gives it a relatable feel and brings out the stark reality portrayed in all its horror. On the other hand, the beautiful poetry interspersed within the narrative lends a finer dimension to this tale of hope and hopelessness, of being burnt down to rising again from the ashes. Elizabeth Edwards’ words “She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails” finds an embodiment in Meera, who like every ordinary Indian woman is taught to adjust and sacrifice after marriage but who, through her resilience, courage and determination emerges as extra ordinary.
This novel is sure to touch your heart and resonate deep within you even long after you have finished going through its pages.
Meera, the protagonist, is a city girl- modern, educated, smart and talented. An only daughter of a retired army officer who could not complete his education due to money constraints, Meera was given the liberty and the opportunity to realize her full potentialities, to dream big and to attain those dreams. But along with the dreams of having a successful career and of getting her novel published, Meera had one more dream- that of getting married, of having a loving and dotting husband, of having her very own “happily ever after” and Abhi had promised all this, and more. But the day she stepped into the house of her in-laws in a small town Ashanagar, all her dreams, hopes and expectations were nipped in the bud. From physical and mental abuse to demand for more and more money from Meera’s father, she has to face it all and her tale becomes one with that of so many women around the world. But the day her mother-in-law pushes her down the stairs leading to her miscarriage, Meera puts her foot down and decides to fight back.
Violence against women is the most prevalent and most persisting social menace, awareness of which has been on a rise and Debnath in her novel makes a bold statement against it. Meera’s plight, her incessant humiliation, the crushing of her dreams become synonymous with the fate of thousands of women around the world, as also her fight for justice for the baby she could never see, never hold in her arms, the baby that she lost, strikes a chord with all humanity. The hollowness and pretences of patriarchal society and the deep rooted corruption in our political and judiciary system are ruthlessly exposed by the author.
The easy, informal language of the novel gives it a relatable feel and brings out the stark reality portrayed in all its horror. On the other hand, the beautiful poetry interspersed within the narrative lends a finer dimension to this tale of hope and hopelessness, of being burnt down to rising again from the ashes. Elizabeth Edwards’ words “She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails” finds an embodiment in Meera, who like every ordinary Indian woman is taught to adjust and sacrifice after marriage but who, through her resilience, courage and determination emerges as extra ordinary.
This novel is sure to touch your heart and resonate deep within you even long after you have finished going through its pages.
October 27, 2015
Nainam chindanti sastrani
Nainam dahati pavakah
Na chainam kledayantyapo
Na sosayati marutah
The soul can never be cut into pieces by any weapon, nor can he be burned by fire, nor moistened by water, nor withered by the wind, preached Sri Krishna to Arjuna. But several women's heart, soul, dreams, wishes, aspirations, hope, existence, pride, identity is burnt in the offering given to the holy fire during their wedding ceremony. Marriage is for only namesake, in fact it becomes the funeral pyre which consumes them there and then itself. Meera was burnt in one such pyre and her heart wrenching story is the plot of Avantika Debnath's debut novel - The Bridal Pyre: Nainam Dahati Pavakah (2015).
Protagonist Meera is well educated, works in an MNC and earns a handsome salary. She bumps into the profile of an NRI, Abhijit, on a matrimonial site and initially refuses to accept his proposal. But after talking to him over the phone and Skype for nearly three months, without even meeting him in person even once, she readily accepts to marry him. Yes, he brainwashes her in such a way that she gives up her dance, which was her soul and even quits her job to marry him.
Meera realises that the castle Abhi had built was merely of sand and all his promises were fake. His parents, especially his mother, taunts her every day and make her life a living hell. Abhi loses his job in the US and stoops down to misuse Meera's savings. He goes on to support his mother and father who mentally and physically harass Meera.
Abhi watches silently when his mother pushes pregnant Meera downstairs. Meera suffers a miscarriage and she loses faith on her husband completely. After 11 months of pain, Meera rebels and questions her husband and mother-in-law about their greed for money and gold. Abhi's mother, who had killed her own mother-in-law, who had earlier attempted to kill Meera, tries to kill Meera again. But Meera escapes by rushing outside and saving her life.
Meera goes back to her parents and decides to face the society and fight for justice. Did she succeed in getting justice? What are the hurdles she faced after leaving her husband forms the climax of the novel. Readers are treated with several expected and unexpected twists and turns in the later half of the novel.
The language is simple, and yes the narration wins the hearts of readers. Readers feel that Meera is an old childhood friend who is narrating her story to them. At one point or the other readers, especially women, can identify themselves with the protagonist. The story of Meera is sure to haunt readers for several days.
Nainam dahati pavakah
Na chainam kledayantyapo
Na sosayati marutah
The soul can never be cut into pieces by any weapon, nor can he be burned by fire, nor moistened by water, nor withered by the wind, preached Sri Krishna to Arjuna. But several women's heart, soul, dreams, wishes, aspirations, hope, existence, pride, identity is burnt in the offering given to the holy fire during their wedding ceremony. Marriage is for only namesake, in fact it becomes the funeral pyre which consumes them there and then itself. Meera was burnt in one such pyre and her heart wrenching story is the plot of Avantika Debnath's debut novel - The Bridal Pyre: Nainam Dahati Pavakah (2015).
Protagonist Meera is well educated, works in an MNC and earns a handsome salary. She bumps into the profile of an NRI, Abhijit, on a matrimonial site and initially refuses to accept his proposal. But after talking to him over the phone and Skype for nearly three months, without even meeting him in person even once, she readily accepts to marry him. Yes, he brainwashes her in such a way that she gives up her dance, which was her soul and even quits her job to marry him.
Meera realises that the castle Abhi had built was merely of sand and all his promises were fake. His parents, especially his mother, taunts her every day and make her life a living hell. Abhi loses his job in the US and stoops down to misuse Meera's savings. He goes on to support his mother and father who mentally and physically harass Meera.
Abhi watches silently when his mother pushes pregnant Meera downstairs. Meera suffers a miscarriage and she loses faith on her husband completely. After 11 months of pain, Meera rebels and questions her husband and mother-in-law about their greed for money and gold. Abhi's mother, who had killed her own mother-in-law, who had earlier attempted to kill Meera, tries to kill Meera again. But Meera escapes by rushing outside and saving her life.
Meera goes back to her parents and decides to face the society and fight for justice. Did she succeed in getting justice? What are the hurdles she faced after leaving her husband forms the climax of the novel. Readers are treated with several expected and unexpected twists and turns in the later half of the novel.
The language is simple, and yes the narration wins the hearts of readers. Readers feel that Meera is an old childhood friend who is narrating her story to them. At one point or the other readers, especially women, can identify themselves with the protagonist. The story of Meera is sure to haunt readers for several days.
October 28, 2015
I have read numerous book in life, and never written a review. But I was prompted by Amazon to write a review on my purchase, and so I thought I should start doing this more often towards the books I read, to give an idea to future readers what this book is all about.
This book is all about what the previous reviewers have mentioned. Self realization and actualization combined with unlimited perseverance. Even the one above pulling our strings wont help us, till we strive for fulfillment. My review can sound a little biased, but I cant help it, the author has made me fall in love with the protagonist.
Meera, is a part of what my mother is, a part of what my sister is, and a part of very woman I have come across in my life, whom I have ended up respecting and loving. The book deals moves around the social evils that does exist in our present day society, I cannot shut my eyes towards it. I am a man, I should have hated this book, but I am a human being too, an average human with a more or less sensitive heart will have to fall in love with this book. It haunts you, doesn't allow you to sleep till you are not done. Amazing poetry, the last one specially, and the one at the beginning, and all the others inside.
No, this book is not a statement of hate towards men. The book displays how women can be women's greatest enemy, and when at all any help came along, it came along as a friend, who was a man. A father, who loves his daughter, but cant express his love, yet supports her silently - a man too.
This book strips of each and every pillar of the society which couldn't provide a girl with the least assistance. The Bridal Pyre was not supposed to be a love story, yet brings out the power of a woman to love from the deepest core of her heart, or rather her soul. And so when Meera is settled that she has become a b**ch after all, a peek into her heart reveals, true love never dies. Thankfully she doesn't give in, she rather resigns to the feeling than to embrace it to encourage its growth. The most difficult situation, to hurt the person you love the most, to gloat over the demise of the most beloved enemy. I will limit myself from giving details about the storyline though, all I can say is a turmoil of emotions. Everything that a bestseller should have. My mother, sister and I have enjoyed reading it. My father is currently reading it, and I recommend it to everyone else. And now I guess I will start writing more reviews.
This book is all about what the previous reviewers have mentioned. Self realization and actualization combined with unlimited perseverance. Even the one above pulling our strings wont help us, till we strive for fulfillment. My review can sound a little biased, but I cant help it, the author has made me fall in love with the protagonist.
Meera, is a part of what my mother is, a part of what my sister is, and a part of very woman I have come across in my life, whom I have ended up respecting and loving. The book deals moves around the social evils that does exist in our present day society, I cannot shut my eyes towards it. I am a man, I should have hated this book, but I am a human being too, an average human with a more or less sensitive heart will have to fall in love with this book. It haunts you, doesn't allow you to sleep till you are not done. Amazing poetry, the last one specially, and the one at the beginning, and all the others inside.
No, this book is not a statement of hate towards men. The book displays how women can be women's greatest enemy, and when at all any help came along, it came along as a friend, who was a man. A father, who loves his daughter, but cant express his love, yet supports her silently - a man too.
This book strips of each and every pillar of the society which couldn't provide a girl with the least assistance. The Bridal Pyre was not supposed to be a love story, yet brings out the power of a woman to love from the deepest core of her heart, or rather her soul. And so when Meera is settled that she has become a b**ch after all, a peek into her heart reveals, true love never dies. Thankfully she doesn't give in, she rather resigns to the feeling than to embrace it to encourage its growth. The most difficult situation, to hurt the person you love the most, to gloat over the demise of the most beloved enemy. I will limit myself from giving details about the storyline though, all I can say is a turmoil of emotions. Everything that a bestseller should have. My mother, sister and I have enjoyed reading it. My father is currently reading it, and I recommend it to everyone else. And now I guess I will start writing more reviews.
June 3, 2016
The book was very captivating and I actually finished the whole book at one go! Just wanted to get my thoughts together before I wrote this to you. Well written and absolutely no unnecessary frills attached to make it look fake.
The flow was good and showed a good understanding of the human strength and character. The only part I found a bit perplexing for me was at the very end where you have mentioned a lot of the legal proceedings. For a totally legally uninformed person like me it did get a bit too much!
Liked the way you suddenly broke out into poetry...kind of broke up the sequence and also summarized your thoughts. Very painful though to read what educated, good looking girls from decent families go thru in India and also many parts of the world.
Truly a job well don! My good wishes to you!
Also thanks for the PDF version of the book! It was really nice of you...I will buy a copy of the book when I am in India this summer.
The flow was good and showed a good understanding of the human strength and character. The only part I found a bit perplexing for me was at the very end where you have mentioned a lot of the legal proceedings. For a totally legally uninformed person like me it did get a bit too much!
Liked the way you suddenly broke out into poetry...kind of broke up the sequence and also summarized your thoughts. Very painful though to read what educated, good looking girls from decent families go thru in India and also many parts of the world.
Truly a job well don! My good wishes to you!
Also thanks for the PDF version of the book! It was really nice of you...I will buy a copy of the book when I am in India this summer.
December 15, 2015
Read complete review at - Amita's Pen
There is a general misconception that physical and verbal abuse at home is only faced by uneducated women. Society very easily and wrongly assumes that an educated woman would never let such things happen to her. "The Bridal Pyre' makes all these myths stand in queue along with corruption and politics prevailing at all levels.
There are some sections in the book would make the reader nod in agreement to their conclusion. Like-
-End of first chapter itself. It’s so bitter to read a daughter thinking those things for her mother, but they are all true at the same time
-Helplessness of parents in our society when it comes to their daughter and her life
There is a general misconception that physical and verbal abuse at home is only faced by uneducated women. Society very easily and wrongly assumes that an educated woman would never let such things happen to her. "The Bridal Pyre' makes all these myths stand in queue along with corruption and politics prevailing at all levels.
There are some sections in the book would make the reader nod in agreement to their conclusion. Like-
-End of first chapter itself. It’s so bitter to read a daughter thinking those things for her mother, but they are all true at the same time
-Helplessness of parents in our society when it comes to their daughter and her life
September 7, 2015
I liked this book more because the protagonist is Meera, that's my name. This is a good story, and something new that I have not found in any other book is poetry ... the novel has a couple of poetry here and thre perfect for the mood of the scene. The ending is amazingggg... no one could have ever guessed... t is not sad t is not happy... I sat wth the book against my chest for about 15 minutes after finishing it and thought about nothing, but the train that ran across.
November 2, 2015
Thanks Avantika.
Thanks a lot for sending me a copy of the book. I really liked it very muchhh...i am not a much English novel reader.....i am more a regional (Telugu) novel reader, I read a synopsis in Akkar bakkar blog and very much wanted to read this novel. Thanks to you for sending me a copy.
Thanks a lot for sending me a copy of the book. I really liked it very muchhh...i am not a much English novel reader.....i am more a regional (Telugu) novel reader, I read a synopsis in Akkar bakkar blog and very much wanted to read this novel. Thanks to you for sending me a copy.
April 28, 2016
An engrossing tale that will touch your heart. Women oriented book which will make you cry in the end. A book which everyone should read.
Full Book Review: https://booksmylifeblog.wordpress.com...
Full Book Review: https://booksmylifeblog.wordpress.com...
October 31, 2015
Enjoyed this one. 4 stars.
Want to read
October 10, 2015I want to read this book immediately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews