First Flood
By Kalki, translated By Gowri Ramnarayan
(Price: Rs 799, Pages: 544)
Penguin Random House
In First Flood, the first installment of Ponniyin Selvan, Kalki delves into the political intrigue of tenth-century Tamil Nadu. As Emperor Sundara Chozha lies unwell in Tanjavur fort, a sinister plot unfolds to dethrone Crown Prince Aditta Karikalan. Entrusted with a critical message, Vallavaraiyan Vandiyatevan faces perilous challenges as he navigates betrayal and ambition. Beautifully translated by Gowri Ramnarayan, this timeless tale of loyalty and intrigue captivates readers with its rich storytelling and complex characters.
Missy
By Raghav Rao
(Price: Rs 699, Pages: 312) Vintage Books
In Missy, Raghav Rao follows Savi, a gifted young woman from St. Ursula’s Convent in Madras, who dreams of escape. After a night of trauma forces her and her lover, Ananda, to flee to America under new identities, Savi transforms into Missy, a pillar of the South Asian community in Chicago. As she raises her two daughters, Mansi and Shilpa, the arrival of Varun, a charming doctor, threatens to unravel her carefully built life. This extraordinary debut delves into themes of identity, love, and the inescapable nature of the past, showcasing a woman's resilience and courage.
