About the book
With a compassionate realism and narrative sweep that recall the work of Charles Dickens, this magnificent novel captures all the cruelty and corruption, dignity and heroism, of India. The time is 1975. The place is an unnamed city by the sea. The government has just declared a State of Emergency, in whose upheavals four strangers–a spirited widow, a young student uprooted from his idyllic hill station, and two tailors who have fled the caste violence of their native village–will be thrust together, forced to share one cramped apartment and an uncertain future.
Reviewed by Petersfield U3A Book Group 3:
An absorbing book which we would never have chosen on our own. It made for one of the best discussions we have had in the group . A book many of us could not put down. Brilliant, informative and deeply moving.
Star rating: ****
Hampshire Libraries 
Review by Perspectives Reading Group:
A gripping and epic read. Convincing characters, engaging and emotional, informative and educational. Highly recommended.
Star rating: ****
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Review by Steering Group
A cultural experience. Insight into the ‘State of Emergency’ and impact on people at that time. Stay with it – gains momentum.
Star rating: ***
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Review by Tuesday afternoon Basingstoke Group
A wonderful if bleak book, beautifully written and very absorbing. All enjoyed it and it provoked much discussion.
Star rating: ****
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Review by Parish Pump Reading Group
Almost all of us found this book an exceptional read. It’s a long book but fascinating and sticks in the mind long after it’s finished. A couple of members thought it the best book they have read.
Star rating: ****
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