shae_says's review
3.0
3.5/5 stars
Thanks to Himalayan Book Club for the copy in exchange for an honest review
Bombay Hangovers by Rochelle Potkar is a delightfully knit series of short stories, all set in the backdrop of the city of dreams, Bombay. The city in itself is given character and tone both of which are immersive to experience. The connection between the characters and the city is granular, giving the book its unique voice. The characters in the book are all curious, passionate and conflicted, thereby hooking us in. Ms.Potkar being a poet sure influences her prose, which is very well written and reads almost lyrical, leaning towards the literary side of fiction. The way she structures her story and the micro-detailing that's embedded in the soul of each story is commendable.
There are many such delights of narration scattered through each story, owned by their characters..
The only con I have is a subjective one. The prose because of its reasons, was more passive during the first couple of stories. I did feel more connected and engaged going further in the book though. With each story the book offered better.
Overall, Bombay Hangovers was for me, an experimental success going into the world of short stories and of Indian authors
Thanks to Himalayan Book Club for the copy in exchange for an honest review
Bombay Hangovers by Rochelle Potkar is a delightfully knit series of short stories, all set in the backdrop of the city of dreams, Bombay. The city in itself is given character and tone both of which are immersive to experience. The connection between the characters and the city is granular, giving the book its unique voice. The characters in the book are all curious, passionate and conflicted, thereby hooking us in. Ms.Potkar being a poet sure influences her prose, which is very well written and reads almost lyrical, leaning towards the literary side of fiction. The way she structures her story and the micro-detailing that's embedded in the soul of each story is commendable.
When would it end? 1982 had been the longest year, stretching like stubborn yarn that wouldn’t yield to become fabric
-- Kailas, Fabric, Bombay Hangovers
There are many such delights of narration scattered through each story, owned by their characters..
The only con I have is a subjective one. The prose because of its reasons, was more passive during the first couple of stories. I did feel more connected and engaged going further in the book though. With each story the book offered better.
Overall, Bombay Hangovers was for me, an experimental success going into the world of short stories and of Indian authors
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