Veena Rao recommends
Sleeping in the Sun (2024)
Joanne Howard
"With meticulous attention to detail, Howard paints a vivid portrait of colonial India through the perspectives of an American family and their Indian servant, skillfully blending historical events with familial moments. Through the eyes of her characters, readers are transported to a world where identities are questioned and the true meaning of home is explored. As the narrative builds toward an explosive climax, Sleeping in the Sun becomes more than just a story - it is a poignant exploration of the human experience that resonates far beyond the last chapter."
The Die (2024)
Jude Berman
"Jude Berman's intelligent reimagining of the Mahabharata set in the chilling near future is a riveting blend of techno-thriller, sociopolitical commentary, and metaphysical fiction. A thought-provoking exploration of the concept of family, the ethical quandaries of advanced technology, and the fragility of democratic values, The Die is a fast-paced read that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned."