COMPELLING TALE OF AN UNRAVELLING MARRIAGE AND CRIME
THE cover of the novel is telling. Two marriage rings link the words “Your” and “Or” in the title: In Indian culture, marriage is not taken with a pinch of salt, nor can it be the light-hearted action of impetuous young people just graduated into adulthood.
There are seven circles that need equal and thoughtful respect. “We vow to look after each other materially; we cherish and honour each other’s physical, medical and emotional needs; spirituality; happiness, harmony, love, trust and understanding; children; unwavering support; loyalty and fidelity.”
Mia, half English, half Indian is married to Roy Kapoor, and after almost 10 years, things between them are not so rosy. A knock at the door by a policeman questioning Roy about the disappearance of young student Emily changes everything between him and Mia.
Mia works hard in the fashion industry, and is largely the breadwinner. Roy is a handsome young man who makes occasional appearances on television, does some travel writing, and has ambitiously big wishes like taking out a year to travel to 10 remote places and write about them – which someone would have to fund.
The families on both sides have an interest in the marriage in which there are no children, which they question, saying children keep a marriage together. The story goes back to Addie, Mia’s sister, who was married in an elaborate ceremony in India. Mia thinks she saw Roy with Emily at Addie’s wedding party.
The story is told from the point of view of Mia and of Roy in alternating chapters. There’s a slow build up with many details in the beginning.
As in life, we can’t always see what is in front of us because of the excess of things distracting our attention. As the novel progresses, it picks up speed like a train which ultimately derails.
This is a compelling novel – a fabulous crime story, which will have you closing the door on everyone around you until you’ve reached the very last page.