The Awakening of Meena Rawat by Anoop Judge

TITLE INFORMATION

The Awakening of Meena Rawat

Anoop Judge

Black Rose Writing, 297 pages

9781684337064, 5.27.21

BOOK REVIEW

Overall Rating = 4.75

Storyline & Concept = 4.5

Writing & Delivery = 5

Editorial = 4.75

Meena Rawat was born into the lowest caste in a small Indian village. Orphaned as a young girl, she endures the hardship of an orphanage. Her days are finally brightened by the arrival of Ramu, another boy of her caste. His dreams and determination eventually take him away from her, and she marries a man who moves her to America for a better life. Meena tries to be grateful in her unhappy marriage. At least, she has a daughter she adores, but when Ramu comes back into her life, she has to make a decision.

This novel hit me with a full spectrum of emotions. From dismay and distress, to warmth and happiness. The characters are extremely well-developed, and the descriptions of the settings are exceptional. The story is told mostly from Meena’s point-of-view, and it moves between time periods, but the dates and points-of-view are well indicated, and it is easy to follow. This was submitted as a romance novel – and it is a love story – but, for this reviewer at least, it was an education, an insight into an unfamiliar culture and mindset, provoking the aforementioned emotions. The author expertly drew me in and held me throughout this wonderful book, and I would highly recommend it for any reader.

Sublime Line: “With its emotion-provoking plot and well-drawn characters, this novel will remain in your thoughts long after the last page is read.”

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