The Bandit Queens: A Novel

A slow start, but it quickly picks up. Geeta’s wit shines, and the sisterhood she builds with Saloni, Farah, Priya, and Preity is fierce and unforgettable. A bold, layered story that dives into caste and justice—with some very satisfying payback. Book #36 in 2025

Unexpectedly hilarious.

Very interesting story line! I was intrigued by the cultural aspects of the story. I always love an underdog type of story and the fact it’s mixed in with a tad bit of mystery is cool! Listened on audiobook.

This was an interesting read. On the one hand, I truly enjoyed the facts given about the caste and how society treats women and the hierarchy within their groups. Utterly awakening for me. This starts off with Geeta being a widow. The village she lives in believes she killed her husband, Ramesh. The group she visits to pay off the police believes she killed him. One day, one of the women, Farah, whose husband abuses her, hires Geeta to kill him off, just as Geeta did to Ramesh. As they go to the junkyard, they both run into a former friend of Geeta’s, named Saloni. Saloni is suspicious of what these two ladies are doing there and there is a lot of silly bickering going back and forth, especially between Farah and Geeta and Saloni, and Greta.

What I did not love about it was that the book went from serious topics and infused them with a barrage of silly comedy. It was trying too hard to be funny and it fell flat. The characters were so busy being silly at intense times and during intense and interesting conversations only to have them say “kabaddi, kabaddi” (which literally translates to holding one’s hand) when they are stressed or “Ram Ram” for a greeting. I don’t mind the phrases here and there but after a while, it became a source of irritation as it tried lighten the strong topics or ongoings. When dealing with such gems of some of those topics, it was ruined by the author's forced infusion of satire, in my opinion.

What I loved about it was learning about the caste system within their village and how even the lowest, can still have a maid. I loved the fact that no matter what, friendships can be rekindled. Start protecting yourself instead of just reacting. Most importantly, never apologize for being a survivor. Truly eye opening about how they still view women today. The character's were layered and developed nicely. The plot was driven but at times turbulent. The ending was well worth everything and take heed when I give you this advice, pay attention because it is a doozy!

A very good debut novel for the author.

Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 3.5/5
Writing Style: 3.5/5
Predictable and full of cliches: 3.5/5
Entertainment - 3.5/5
Recommend: 4/5

TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Domestic abuse/child abuse; Marital rape; Murder; Animal cruelty

Captivating dive into social caste of India. Pretty ridiculous story, but a great message!