Introduction

In her thought-provoking, uplifting new novel, Shobhan Bantwal vividly blends the nuances of contemporary Indian-American culture with an unconventional romance. . .

At thirty-one, Meena Shenoy has a fulfilling career at a New Jersey high-tech firm. Not that it impresses her mother and aunts, who make dire predictions about her ticking biological clock. Men are drawn to Meena's dainty looks and she dates regularly, but hasn't met someone who really intrigues her. Someone professional, ambitious, confident, caring. Someone like her new boss, Prajay Nayak.

Just as Meena's thoughts turn to romance, Prajay makes an astonishing request. He wants her to craft a personal ad that will help him find a suitable wife: a statuesque, sophisticated Indian-American woman who will complement his striking height.

Despite her attraction to Prajay and the complications of balancing work and her "marriage consultant" role, Meena can't refuse the generous fee. And as her family is thrown into turmoil by her brother's relationship with a Muslim woman, Meena comes to surprising realizations about love, tradition, and the sacrifices she will--and won't--make for the sake of both.

"One of the best [novels] I've read this year. I couldn't put it down. . .this book is a gem!" --Mary Monroe, New York Times bestselling author on The Unexpected Son

"Compelling and memorable." --Mary Jo Putney, New York Times bestselling author on The Forbidden Daughter

"Vivid, rich. . .expertly portrays a young woman caught between love and duty, hope and despair." --Anjali Banerjee on The Dowry Bride

"Dazzles you with a taste of Desi culture in America." --Caridad Piñeiro

Editorial Review

No editorial review at this time.

Excerpt

When Prajay returned to sit beside me, he sat much closer. Although I tried to keep my mind on the sheet of paper, my objectivity was nowhere to be found. His nearness, the warmth radiating from him, and the scent of him were driving me nuts. “What exactly do you want me to do with this, Prajay?” ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

1. Despite growing up in a culture that places so much emphasis on arranged marriage, a practice that has worked well for so many in her family, why do you think Meena Shenoy firmly rejects the notion? Discuss the concept of arranged marriage.
2. Discuss the pros and cons of growing up in a mixed cultural environment like Meena and Prajay have. Does straddling two or more diverse cultures help or hinder personal growth?
3. Despite Prajay’s remarks that he doesn’t place emphasis on looks, he still wants to marry someone based on physical appearance. What are the contradictions and the implications of his statement?
4. Discuss Meena’s relationship with Deepak Iyer. What does Deepak bring to her life and to the story?
5. Meena’s mother is a successful career woman and a dominant matriarch. How does she influence her children’s lives?
6. After admitting to herself that she’s in love with Prajay, why is the intrepid Meena so afraid to confess that love to him?
7. What roles do Meena’s brothers play in her life? How do they factor into her quest for the perfect man?
8. Discuss the scene that involves Prajay’s young niece and nephew. How do they enhance the story?
9. Akka, Meena’s elderly great-aunt, plays an influential part in Meena’s story. How does Akka bring a whole new twist to the plot?
10. Another character who makes the story more complicated is Ajit Baliga. Discuss his role in the story.

Weblinks

»	Author Shobhan Bantwal's web site
»	Follow Shobhan Bantwal on Facebook
»	Publisher's Book Info

Book Club Recommendations

Recommended to book clubs by 0 of 2 members.

Member Reviews

Rate this book