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The Awakening of Meena Rawat
Every day, twenty-eight-year-old Meena Rawat is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life she has—even if she is stuck in an unhappy marriage. She and her daughter are both safe, clothed, and fed, more than she could say for herself as a child. Born into the “Untouchables” caste in a small village in North India, Meena frequently relives the nightmare of abuses and slurs she suffered in an orphanage. There is only one bright spot in her memories: the fellow ‘Untouchable’ orphan who became her best friend and first love, Ramu.
When Ramu reappears in her new American life, he’s different. Unlike her, he has cast off the shame of their upbringing and become a confident entrepreneur. Their meeting rekindles a lost passion and the two find they share a mutual sense of obligation to help the children of the outcast community they left behind. Meena fantasizes about a future with him, but will her responsibility to her daughter—and the certainty that she would lose custody—keep her chained?
When Ramu reappears in her new American life, he’s different. Unlike her, he has cast off the shame of their upbringing and become a confident entrepreneur. Their meeting rekindles a lost passion and the two find they share a mutual sense of obligation to help the children of the outcast community they left behind. Meena fantasizes about a future with him, but will her responsibility to her daughter—and the certainty that she would lose custody—keep her chained?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2021
About the author
Anoop Judge
4 books38 followersI am an award-winning author, a T.V. personality, and a recovering litigator.
Born and raised in the bustling sprawl of New Delhi, India, I now live in the San Francisco Bay Area.
I am the author of four novels, THE RUMMY CLUB which won the 2015 Beverly Hills Book Award, THE AWAKENING OF MEENA RAWAT, an excerpt of which was nominated for the 2019 Pushcart Prize, NO ORDINARY THURSDAY, and MERCY AND GRACE.
Born and raised in the bustling sprawl of New Delhi, India, I now live in the San Francisco Bay Area.
I am the author of four novels, THE RUMMY CLUB which won the 2015 Beverly Hills Book Award, THE AWAKENING OF MEENA RAWAT, an excerpt of which was nominated for the 2019 Pushcart Prize, NO ORDINARY THURSDAY, and MERCY AND GRACE.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 10, 2021
The Awakening of Meena Rawat is an amazing emotionally fullfiling tale of Meena and Ramu.
Meena is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life and there is only one bright spot in her memories: the fellow 'Untouchable' orphan who became her best friend and first love, Ramu. Discover the pangs of her roller-coaster life as she reveals her deepest secrets.
The Awakening of Meena Rawat is the story of two very passionate individuals as they come to terms with the pangs and pleasures of love and emotions while battling the situations that life has placed them in. Let the characters guide you through this beautiful tale of love, loss and longing.
This is the most heart touching story I have ever read. Those who love to read Romantic novels should definitely read this book at least once. There is Love, there is Sorrow, there is Fun and there is Loss. If you read this by heart (and I know that, each page will definitely push you to read the next page) I swear, It will take some time to get out of that story.
At least in my case, it happened.
Every page of the book has hypnotized me deeply. It was so deep experience reading this book. It was so touching the content was good more over it was not one of those books in which you can have an idea about what is going to happen next. This book is an emotional rollercoaster, written so beautifully with the right words in the right places, the details to the emotions is beautifully captured.
This Novel Not Only Emphasizes On To Make The Readers Concentrate On Bright Side Of Their Life But Also Helps Them To Find The Sunshine They Actually Want.To The Author, I Would Really Thank A Lot For Providing Us With Such A Fantastic, Innocent Love Story Along With Knowledge And Life Lessons.
Story keeps you engaged till the end, Highly Recommended!
#bookreview #books #bookworm #booklover #booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookish #booknerd #readersofinstagram #bibliophile #bookreviewer #reading #book #bookblogger #booksbooksbooks #bookaddict #bookcommunity #booklovers #bookaholic #goodreads #bookshelf #review #reviews #bookobsessed #bookclub #bookphotography #bhfyp
Meena is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life and there is only one bright spot in her memories: the fellow 'Untouchable' orphan who became her best friend and first love, Ramu. Discover the pangs of her roller-coaster life as she reveals her deepest secrets.
The Awakening of Meena Rawat is the story of two very passionate individuals as they come to terms with the pangs and pleasures of love and emotions while battling the situations that life has placed them in. Let the characters guide you through this beautiful tale of love, loss and longing.
This is the most heart touching story I have ever read. Those who love to read Romantic novels should definitely read this book at least once. There is Love, there is Sorrow, there is Fun and there is Loss. If you read this by heart (and I know that, each page will definitely push you to read the next page) I swear, It will take some time to get out of that story.
At least in my case, it happened.
Every page of the book has hypnotized me deeply. It was so deep experience reading this book. It was so touching the content was good more over it was not one of those books in which you can have an idea about what is going to happen next. This book is an emotional rollercoaster, written so beautifully with the right words in the right places, the details to the emotions is beautifully captured.
This Novel Not Only Emphasizes On To Make The Readers Concentrate On Bright Side Of Their Life But Also Helps Them To Find The Sunshine They Actually Want.To The Author, I Would Really Thank A Lot For Providing Us With Such A Fantastic, Innocent Love Story Along With Knowledge And Life Lessons.
Story keeps you engaged till the end, Highly Recommended!
#bookreview #books #bookworm #booklover #booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookish #booknerd #readersofinstagram #bibliophile #bookreviewer #reading #book #bookblogger #booksbooksbooks #bookaddict #bookcommunity #booklovers #bookaholic #goodreads #bookshelf #review #reviews #bookobsessed #bookclub #bookphotography #bhfyp
July 13, 2021
This is a romance with the backdrop of the harshness and difficulties faced by impoverished orphans belonging to low caste, a caste system in India where the family’s caste determines the child’s caste.
Meena who’s facing discrimination, even when it comes to food due to her lower caste, meets Ram, who’s been sent to same Children’s Home as Meena. Ram is ambitious and wants to change his life for better. Meena ends up marrying Bhavesh, who belongs to high caste and they settle in US.
But destiny has other plans and things take a turn and Meena has to decide her fate.
Although the story had a strong point, I felt sometimes that things would suddenly rush in some subplots.
Meena who’s facing discrimination, even when it comes to food due to her lower caste, meets Ram, who’s been sent to same Children’s Home as Meena. Ram is ambitious and wants to change his life for better. Meena ends up marrying Bhavesh, who belongs to high caste and they settle in US.
But destiny has other plans and things take a turn and Meena has to decide her fate.
Although the story had a strong point, I felt sometimes that things would suddenly rush in some subplots.
July 1, 2021
Blurb:
A 10 year old witnesses her mother’s death and even at that tender age understands the degradation and humiliation they have to undergo because of being from an untouchable community. She is left at an orphanage where, amongst other hardship, ‘caste determines the quantity of food served : often nothing’. There is only one bright spot: another ‘untouchable’ orphan who becomes her best friend and first love: Ramu.
Fast forward to the present:
Every day, twenty-eight-year-old Meena Rawat is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life she has—even if she is stuck in an unhappy marriage. She and her daughter are both safe, clothed, and fed, more than she could say for herself as a child. When Ramu reappears in her new American life, he’s different. Unlike her, he has cast off the shame of their upbringing and become a confident entrepreneur. Their meeting rekindles a lost passion and Meena fantasizes about a future with him, but will her responsibility to her daughter—and the certainty that she would lose custody—keep her chained?
My thoughts:
A tale of loss, love, longing and second chances, it brings to the fore the two sides of a woman: vulnerable yet resilient. Meena is so conditioned to abuse that she cannot fight off her husband who is forever reminding her of the ‘upward mobility’, he a Kshatriya has provided her. However, she has steel and resolve in her which do make their way to the outside, even if it feels like taking forever!
Three different POVs and two timelines ( 1996 and 2014) build up the story. The trope of friends to lovers is taken to another level when the lovers meet a decade later. The meeting of Meena and Ramu (now Ram) is tender and poignant. The friendship (and support) derived by Meena from Tammy is one of the highlights of the read. That a mother will put up with anything and everything for her child is brought out in no uncertain terms.
The read takes a while in building atmosphere. Crisper editing of length and language would have helped. The issues of casteism and untouchability and a repetition
of abusive terminology seems to have been written for them white gaze. You cheer for Meena, you want her to break free, you get angry with her for accepting assault and harassment from her husband, and you wait for the moment when she will find herself and fully ‘awaken’.
It is very telling that even in the 21st century, patriarchy and hierarchy still exist. Anoop Judge has portrayed life in all its colours and shades making this read quite a page turner.
Many thanks to the author for gifting a digital copy of the book in exchange of an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A 10 year old witnesses her mother’s death and even at that tender age understands the degradation and humiliation they have to undergo because of being from an untouchable community. She is left at an orphanage where, amongst other hardship, ‘caste determines the quantity of food served : often nothing’. There is only one bright spot: another ‘untouchable’ orphan who becomes her best friend and first love: Ramu.
Fast forward to the present:
Every day, twenty-eight-year-old Meena Rawat is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life she has—even if she is stuck in an unhappy marriage. She and her daughter are both safe, clothed, and fed, more than she could say for herself as a child. When Ramu reappears in her new American life, he’s different. Unlike her, he has cast off the shame of their upbringing and become a confident entrepreneur. Their meeting rekindles a lost passion and Meena fantasizes about a future with him, but will her responsibility to her daughter—and the certainty that she would lose custody—keep her chained?
My thoughts:
A tale of loss, love, longing and second chances, it brings to the fore the two sides of a woman: vulnerable yet resilient. Meena is so conditioned to abuse that she cannot fight off her husband who is forever reminding her of the ‘upward mobility’, he a Kshatriya has provided her. However, she has steel and resolve in her which do make their way to the outside, even if it feels like taking forever!
Three different POVs and two timelines ( 1996 and 2014) build up the story. The trope of friends to lovers is taken to another level when the lovers meet a decade later. The meeting of Meena and Ramu (now Ram) is tender and poignant. The friendship (and support) derived by Meena from Tammy is one of the highlights of the read. That a mother will put up with anything and everything for her child is brought out in no uncertain terms.
The read takes a while in building atmosphere. Crisper editing of length and language would have helped. The issues of casteism and untouchability and a repetition
of abusive terminology seems to have been written for them white gaze. You cheer for Meena, you want her to break free, you get angry with her for accepting assault and harassment from her husband, and you wait for the moment when she will find herself and fully ‘awaken’.
It is very telling that even in the 21st century, patriarchy and hierarchy still exist. Anoop Judge has portrayed life in all its colours and shades making this read quite a page turner.
Many thanks to the author for gifting a digital copy of the book in exchange of an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 12, 2021
In The Awakening of Meena Rawat, Judge has created an unsentimental, yet gut wrenching tale of personal discovery laced with just a hint of fairy tale.
Awash with beautiful writing, each page radiates flowing metaphor, and spot on allegory:
“her eyes opaque as stormy water”
“our mouths fitting together like missing pieces in a jigsaw puzzle”
“like the misty rain … that falls softly but floods the river”
“The conversation was jerky, jingling with odd, unfitted facts like a pocketful of nails”
Meena is Dalit – an untouchable member of the lowest caste in traditional Indian culture. Her life is the product of a childhood forged in the depths of hell, followed by marriage to Bhavesh, a man who is the personification of an infernal demon.
She now lives in America, a move partly financial and partly to escape the disgrace felt by Bhavesh, a higher caste Kshatriya, at marrying beneath his station.
Through the influence of her friend Tammy coupled with the increasing abuse of her husband, Meena slowly begins to see herself in a different light; a process accelerated by the arrival of Ramu, a childhood friend and lover.
Despite the title, not only Meena grows, but all the exceptionally well-drawn characters; even Bhavesh, who, far from a straw man, is a fully developed individual; himself a victim of the caste system.
Among one of the best books I’ve ever read, The Awakening of Meena Rawat, is a brilliantly written Bildungsroman; Judge is a skilled writer of tremendous depth and intelligence.
Awash with beautiful writing, each page radiates flowing metaphor, and spot on allegory:
“her eyes opaque as stormy water”
“our mouths fitting together like missing pieces in a jigsaw puzzle”
“like the misty rain … that falls softly but floods the river”
“The conversation was jerky, jingling with odd, unfitted facts like a pocketful of nails”
Meena is Dalit – an untouchable member of the lowest caste in traditional Indian culture. Her life is the product of a childhood forged in the depths of hell, followed by marriage to Bhavesh, a man who is the personification of an infernal demon.
She now lives in America, a move partly financial and partly to escape the disgrace felt by Bhavesh, a higher caste Kshatriya, at marrying beneath his station.
Through the influence of her friend Tammy coupled with the increasing abuse of her husband, Meena slowly begins to see herself in a different light; a process accelerated by the arrival of Ramu, a childhood friend and lover.
Despite the title, not only Meena grows, but all the exceptionally well-drawn characters; even Bhavesh, who, far from a straw man, is a fully developed individual; himself a victim of the caste system.
Among one of the best books I’ve ever read, The Awakening of Meena Rawat, is a brilliantly written Bildungsroman; Judge is a skilled writer of tremendous depth and intelligence.
July 30, 2021
Meena Rawat is a twenty-eight year-old woman living in California with her husband, Bhavesh and daughter, Maya. Everyday, she wages a battle within herself to be grateful for the comfortable life her husband has provided for her in America. Meena is a Dalit by birth and Bhavesh is a Kshatriya. He doesn't miss a single chance in reminding her that he had married below his stature.
Meena can't help but reminisce her childhood at the orphanage in Kalanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Her mother had died when she was ten. The orphanage was a constant nightmare filled with unending abuses and slurs, as the other children were from upper castes. But one of the best things of her life happened to her there - Ramu. Ramu came to the orphanage a few years later after Meena and, he was also a Dalit. They became bestfriends and eventually, lovers. But one day, Ramu left to build a promising future for both of them with a promise to return as soon as possible.
And now, almost a decade later, Meena comes face to face with Ramu. While Meena still has low self-esteem, thanks to her childhood and husband, Ramu has cast aside all self-doubt and turned into a super-confident fortune 500 CEO! Their meeting rekindles lost passion but Meena is hesitant to listen to her heart.
Will Meena choose her family over love? Will she remain chained in her unhappy marriage forever? Read to know!
This book is quite the pageturner! It is thought-provoking, powerful, eye-opening, brilliant, intimate and heart-wrenching! A must-read through and through!
Meena can't help but reminisce her childhood at the orphanage in Kalanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Her mother had died when she was ten. The orphanage was a constant nightmare filled with unending abuses and slurs, as the other children were from upper castes. But one of the best things of her life happened to her there - Ramu. Ramu came to the orphanage a few years later after Meena and, he was also a Dalit. They became bestfriends and eventually, lovers. But one day, Ramu left to build a promising future for both of them with a promise to return as soon as possible.
And now, almost a decade later, Meena comes face to face with Ramu. While Meena still has low self-esteem, thanks to her childhood and husband, Ramu has cast aside all self-doubt and turned into a super-confident fortune 500 CEO! Their meeting rekindles lost passion but Meena is hesitant to listen to her heart.
Will Meena choose her family over love? Will she remain chained in her unhappy marriage forever? Read to know!
This book is quite the pageturner! It is thought-provoking, powerful, eye-opening, brilliant, intimate and heart-wrenching! A must-read through and through!
July 7, 2021
The story of Meena is a contemporary romantic page Turner that pulls the reader into Meena’s world with relatable themes and well-rounded character development. Meena is constantly told how lucky she is and how wonderful she should feel in her American life with her husband and their daughter. Meena is still plagued by childhood memories in an orphanage that she has yet to heal from. When her childhood friend, Ramu, reenters her life, Meena is forced to examine what is truly important and what she is willing to sacrifice for love and her own happiness.
This is a story romance readers will devour. The emotion and honesty between the characters in this book are heart-warming and raw. Meena and Ramu’s love story is sure to captivate readers who will find themselves blazing through this story to see how it all ends.
I would recommend this novel to fans of “What Alice Forgot” by Liane Moriarty.
This is a story romance readers will devour. The emotion and honesty between the characters in this book are heart-warming and raw. Meena and Ramu’s love story is sure to captivate readers who will find themselves blazing through this story to see how it all ends.
I would recommend this novel to fans of “What Alice Forgot” by Liane Moriarty.
July 11, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! It was by no means a lighthearted read, but it was a very interesting, beautifully written and heart wrenching story. Once I started I couldn't put it down. I felt so bad for all of the things Meena went through, but I was so proud of how she pulled herself out of it. I don't want to give any spoilers away, but I loved the ending.
Want to read
May 27, 2021Just won in a goodreads giveaway! Kinda backed up between giveaway books and library holds at the moment but can't wait to read and review!
June 21, 2021
“Well, what would I do if Ram hadn’t turned up? Would I just go
on feeling out of place, not really a part of my Indian household, but
not part of this country I live in, either?” I speak roughly. “Maybe I need
to start thinking about what is important to me outside of men.” I drag
shaking fingers through my hair. “Who am I? What do I want?”
- This question is at the core of "The Awakening of Meena Rawat" by author Anoop Judge. An indie novel with themes around casteism in India, joy of true love, every day struggle to be happy in what is considered to be "the maximum you could dream of' yet what is it that I am still missing? Also, the role of society which never lets you forget "who you are"!
The plot and the characters are well developed and the flow is effortless. One page just melts into the next. The author is well versed with the craft of storytelling. It is backed up with professional editing and the result is worth a read.
At the end of the story, I was forced to think what would I do if I were in Meena's situation?
Interesting Question!
on feeling out of place, not really a part of my Indian household, but
not part of this country I live in, either?” I speak roughly. “Maybe I need
to start thinking about what is important to me outside of men.” I drag
shaking fingers through my hair. “Who am I? What do I want?”
- This question is at the core of "The Awakening of Meena Rawat" by author Anoop Judge. An indie novel with themes around casteism in India, joy of true love, every day struggle to be happy in what is considered to be "the maximum you could dream of' yet what is it that I am still missing? Also, the role of society which never lets you forget "who you are"!
The plot and the characters are well developed and the flow is effortless. One page just melts into the next. The author is well versed with the craft of storytelling. It is backed up with professional editing and the result is worth a read.
At the end of the story, I was forced to think what would I do if I were in Meena's situation?
Interesting Question!
July 4, 2021
Thank you so much to Anoop Judge for sending me a digital copy of her novel! I am so grateful that I got to read this story. I found it so interesting to read more about Indian culture. Meena was such a lovable mc and you can’t help but root for her and her childhood love. They meet again around ten years later when Meena is now married, and it is the most heartwarming reconnection I’ve ever read. It flits between two timelines 2014 and 1992-2005 (it changes as the story goes on) and also there are three different perspectives. The trope in this novel is a friends to lovers -but in two different timelines (how they fall in love again after so many years) I read this is one sitting, and I feel the book ended in the perfect way. This authors writing was so beautiful and her metaphors were so intelligent that made me go- oh wow. I recommend this to anyone who wants a quick read, likes a heartwarming romance, and if anyone is looking for main characters that are from India.
June 4, 2021
To tell you Anoop Judge’s debut novel, The Awakening of Meena Rawat is a love story, would be a lie. It’s so much more than that.
It is a multicultural romance set in an Indian community where casteism and untouchability prevail. Meena, the heroine, orphaned at an innocent age of eight finds herself at Grace Mercy Orphanage where she is the only Dalit. (untouchable)
Exposed to cruelty from a very tender age, her small world changes when Ram Nayak, also a Dalit steps foot in the orphanage after a tragedy has befallen his family. Like a drop of water in a dry plant, eyes meet, thirst quenches and love blooms.
The story is set in two different timelines set a decade apart and is narrated by three point of views. The character buildup is remarkable and no lose ends are left untied. The language is simple but not plain.
Sounds easy isn’t it? It’s anything but.
In a fictional plot the author has painted a vivid picture of how brutal a superstition soaked community can be. It’s sad how a line from the book has been a reality in our country’s history. “nonDalits are repulsed by being near an Untouchable and yet have no problem manhandling and even sexually assaulting them.”
This book is miles ahead of a cliché romance. It’s trying to right a wrong. A kind of spreading awareness through a very different angle of romance. It’s going back to the roots of Indian culture in a whirlpool of casteism that somewhere exists even today.
I laughed and cried with Ram and Meena and so will you. I recommend this book to everyone, an easy read with high impact and full of bittersweet moments.
It is a multicultural romance set in an Indian community where casteism and untouchability prevail. Meena, the heroine, orphaned at an innocent age of eight finds herself at Grace Mercy Orphanage where she is the only Dalit. (untouchable)
Exposed to cruelty from a very tender age, her small world changes when Ram Nayak, also a Dalit steps foot in the orphanage after a tragedy has befallen his family. Like a drop of water in a dry plant, eyes meet, thirst quenches and love blooms.
The story is set in two different timelines set a decade apart and is narrated by three point of views. The character buildup is remarkable and no lose ends are left untied. The language is simple but not plain.
Sounds easy isn’t it? It’s anything but.
In a fictional plot the author has painted a vivid picture of how brutal a superstition soaked community can be. It’s sad how a line from the book has been a reality in our country’s history. “nonDalits are repulsed by being near an Untouchable and yet have no problem manhandling and even sexually assaulting them.”
This book is miles ahead of a cliché romance. It’s trying to right a wrong. A kind of spreading awareness through a very different angle of romance. It’s going back to the roots of Indian culture in a whirlpool of casteism that somewhere exists even today.
I laughed and cried with Ram and Meena and so will you. I recommend this book to everyone, an easy read with high impact and full of bittersweet moments.
July 27, 2021
Extraordinary Awakening Novel
Well crafted story of two impoverished orphans in India struggling in an unfair world through pain, abuse, hunger and hope. Finding themselves is an arduous journey. Coming to the US is an eye opener to freedom and equality. Readers are swept along and become fully engrossed in the plot, setting and most of all, the characters.
Well crafted story of two impoverished orphans in India struggling in an unfair world through pain, abuse, hunger and hope. Finding themselves is an arduous journey. Coming to the US is an eye opener to freedom and equality. Readers are swept along and become fully engrossed in the plot, setting and most of all, the characters.
June 10, 2021
Give up all ideas about yourself , what you meant to be and simply be." The value of this book cannot be overstated I hold my copy very close and dear. From the perspective of sheer knowledge this book wastes no paper. This book doesn't waste your time. After reading the book it feels that layers and layers of pessimism has just peeled over and what remains is the infinite growing mindset , courage. The reader will find all the answers. One sincere advice, please read it slowly, one chapter at a time. It will be easy to grasp that way.
All and all this is an amazing book written by an amazing author.
Highly Recommended!
All and all this is an amazing book written by an amazing author.
Highly Recommended!
June 10, 2021
It is very rare for a book to have its characters live beyond the pages, and at the same time let it transcend its own genre into something else. The Awakening of Meena Rawat does that, and more.
Five Stars read for me.
One of the best book I have read this month!
Highly recommend it! I only leave positive feedback and reviews when I love the book.
Feel free to ask anything regarding this book.
A must read for sure.
I'd recommend this book to everyone who would like to read a good children Literature.
The book is written in a very interesting way.
A must read for sure
Five Stars read for me.
One of the best book I have read this month!
Highly recommend it! I only leave positive feedback and reviews when I love the book.
Feel free to ask anything regarding this book.
A must read for sure.
I'd recommend this book to everyone who would like to read a good children Literature.
The book is written in a very interesting way.
A must read for sure
June 4, 2021
I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would. I'm lucky I found it because I just picked it out at random from a publisher I found online through Lonestar Literary Life. This is only the 2nd book I have purchased in a year.
Anyway the characters, even the abusive husband are well-drawn and the dialogue is sharp and believable. The storyline flows nicely and you find yourself caring about the fate of all the characters, especially Meena and Ramu. Reading this book was also a learning experience, since I learned about the plight of the dalit or untouchable caste both in India and here in the US.
I did find it jarring that some of the American characters used British words such as "sweet" for candy,"flat" for apartment and "straight away" for right away. The editors should have caught these mistakes.
And it is definitely a romance if the definition of a romance novel is that the emotions and the relationship of the two main characters are at the center of the story.
Otherwise, it was a worthwhile book. I look forward to reading the Rummy Club by the same author.
Anyway the characters, even the abusive husband are well-drawn and the dialogue is sharp and believable. The storyline flows nicely and you find yourself caring about the fate of all the characters, especially Meena and Ramu. Reading this book was also a learning experience, since I learned about the plight of the dalit or untouchable caste both in India and here in the US.
I did find it jarring that some of the American characters used British words such as "sweet" for candy,"flat" for apartment and "straight away" for right away. The editors should have caught these mistakes.
And it is definitely a romance if the definition of a romance novel is that the emotions and the relationship of the two main characters are at the center of the story.
Otherwise, it was a worthwhile book. I look forward to reading the Rummy Club by the same author.
June 11, 2021
Held my interest throughout
April 28, 2021
I really loved this book. It’s the kind of story that pulls you right in. The flow of the story was perfect, and the character development was outstanding. I was totally invested in the protagonist and her story. The sign of a well written book, in my opinion.
Anoop has a way of weaving a story with just enough detail—you feel as if you are reading about people you know. I’m definitely a fan of hers, and will read more from her in the future. Highly recommended.
Anoop has a way of weaving a story with just enough detail—you feel as if you are reading about people you know. I’m definitely a fan of hers, and will read more from her in the future. Highly recommended.
May 11, 2021
Overall Rating = 4.75
Storyline & Concept = 4.5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 4.75
Meena Rawat was born into the lowest caste in a small Indian village. Orphaned as a young girl, she endures the hardship of an orphanage. Her days are finally brightened by the arrival of Ramu, another boy of her caste. His dreams and determination eventually take him away from her, and she marries a man who moves her to America for a better life. Meena tries to be grateful in her unhappy marriage. At least, she has a daughter she adores, but when Ramu comes back into her life, she has to make a decision.
This novel hit me with a full spectrum of emotions. From dismay and distress, to warmth and happiness. The characters are extremely well-developed, and the descriptions of the settings are exceptional. The story is told mostly from Meena’s point-of-view, and it moves between time periods, but the dates and points-of-view are well indicated, and it is easy to follow. This was submitted as a romance novel – and it is a love story – but, for this reviewer at least, it was an education, an insight into an unfamiliar culture and mindset, provoking the aforementioned emotions. The author expertly drew me in and held me throughout this wonderful book, and I would highly recommend it for any reader.
Sublime Line: “With its emotion-provoking plot and well-drawn characters, this novel will remain in your thoughts long after the last page is read.”
Storyline & Concept = 4.5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 4.75
Meena Rawat was born into the lowest caste in a small Indian village. Orphaned as a young girl, she endures the hardship of an orphanage. Her days are finally brightened by the arrival of Ramu, another boy of her caste. His dreams and determination eventually take him away from her, and she marries a man who moves her to America for a better life. Meena tries to be grateful in her unhappy marriage. At least, she has a daughter she adores, but when Ramu comes back into her life, she has to make a decision.
This novel hit me with a full spectrum of emotions. From dismay and distress, to warmth and happiness. The characters are extremely well-developed, and the descriptions of the settings are exceptional. The story is told mostly from Meena’s point-of-view, and it moves between time periods, but the dates and points-of-view are well indicated, and it is easy to follow. This was submitted as a romance novel – and it is a love story – but, for this reviewer at least, it was an education, an insight into an unfamiliar culture and mindset, provoking the aforementioned emotions. The author expertly drew me in and held me throughout this wonderful book, and I would highly recommend it for any reader.
Sublime Line: “With its emotion-provoking plot and well-drawn characters, this novel will remain in your thoughts long after the last page is read.”
August 6, 2021
Meena is part of the “Untouchables” caste in her village in Northern India. The “Untouchables” are treated like scum and are not seen as actual people in Indian culture. They are the lowest of the low. When Meena’s mother passes away, she is left at an orphanage by her uncle and aunt. Being the only one of her caste, life for Meena is miserable. The kids call her names, pick on her, and mistreat her. She’s constantly bombarded with slurs, abuse, and violence. That is until another boy shows up within the same caste of her. Ramu and Meena form a tight bond that is unbreakable. Until Ramu decides to leave to make a better life for him and Meena. A story about love, culture, and identity, Meena must find her way in a world away from her home and figure out what to do when Ramu suddenly appears in her new life. Can love prevail? Will Meena’s culture hold her back from becoming the best version of herself?
From start to finish, this novel was heartbreaking. To read about the mistreatment of those in the “Untouchable” caste in India, was truly heart wrenching. I can’t imagine living a life as Meena did. To constantly be abuse, physically, emotionally, and even sexually, how she can overcome and preserver, is truly a testament of her character. Meena is such a strong woman, and I found myself so proud of who she became. I loved watching her grow and finally take control of her life and standing up for what she deserves. I also think it is worth mentioning that, this story expresses what many people from other cultures experience. Moreover, why it is so important to relocate to America, to stand a chance at survival. It is truly remarkable how America offered this better life to Meena, by showing her that she can still be an Indian woman but giver the voice and power to be able to define her identity, whereas in India, she could not. All because of the unfairness of the caste system.
For me, this novel was a quick read. I could not believe for a 540-page novel, I was able to get through it in three sittings of 3-4 hours each. I found myself immersed in the story from start to finish. The only reason I gave this a four start instead of a five, was due to minimal spelling errors and I felt there was too much backstory that could have been eliminated, when reading from Ramu’s point of view. However, as I said, this story was incredible and I am so thankful that I was given the chance to read it. I probably would not have picked it up on my own otherwise, and that would have been a tragedy. It is so important as readers, to read books as diverse as we can and to be able to learn more about this world we share with others. Even though this story is fictitious, the culture of India is not. After reading this, I want to explore this culture more to better understand India as a country and its people. I can’t express enough how much I recommend this book.
From start to finish, this novel was heartbreaking. To read about the mistreatment of those in the “Untouchable” caste in India, was truly heart wrenching. I can’t imagine living a life as Meena did. To constantly be abuse, physically, emotionally, and even sexually, how she can overcome and preserver, is truly a testament of her character. Meena is such a strong woman, and I found myself so proud of who she became. I loved watching her grow and finally take control of her life and standing up for what she deserves. I also think it is worth mentioning that, this story expresses what many people from other cultures experience. Moreover, why it is so important to relocate to America, to stand a chance at survival. It is truly remarkable how America offered this better life to Meena, by showing her that she can still be an Indian woman but giver the voice and power to be able to define her identity, whereas in India, she could not. All because of the unfairness of the caste system.
For me, this novel was a quick read. I could not believe for a 540-page novel, I was able to get through it in three sittings of 3-4 hours each. I found myself immersed in the story from start to finish. The only reason I gave this a four start instead of a five, was due to minimal spelling errors and I felt there was too much backstory that could have been eliminated, when reading from Ramu’s point of view. However, as I said, this story was incredible and I am so thankful that I was given the chance to read it. I probably would not have picked it up on my own otherwise, and that would have been a tragedy. It is so important as readers, to read books as diverse as we can and to be able to learn more about this world we share with others. Even though this story is fictitious, the culture of India is not. After reading this, I want to explore this culture more to better understand India as a country and its people. I can’t express enough how much I recommend this book.
July 30, 2021
Meena lost her mother when she was ten. No one touched and helped her just because she was a Dalit child. After she spent all her childhood in an orphanage where she faced the malice of cast and Dalit practices in her daily life. She wasn't allowed to sit on benches she was given the leftover food. Many such instances are shared by the author that gave me goosebumps while reading.
After few years Ramu came to an orphanage and they soon became best friends and then lovers. They truly understand each other's struggle and fear.
Ramu departed after some time with the thought of making things better for their future and their kind.
Meena married Bhavesh. Now while living in California with him and their daughter Maya, she still couldn't elude from the grasp of the past. Her husband constantly reminded her how grateful she is to have him, how kind he is to married a Dalit, is a Kshatriya. There was no love or respect between them.
Destiny takes a turn when Meena again meets her childhood love who is a successful CEO now. Soon she is wobbling in the dilemma of choosing happiness for herself, to take a stand for who she is, to spend her life with the person she loves and who respects her, or to keep going with her wrecked marriage for the sake of their daughter.
The author's well-written fiction caused a mind-provoking thought on the issue of untouchability and its practice. This book focuses on the most disturbing caste system of India that subjugates 300 million Dalits into economic and social bondage.
Lingo is lucid and easy to comprehend. Narration is deep, heart wrenching as well as strong.
It kept me engrossed till the last page and I recommend this book to everyone out there.
After few years Ramu came to an orphanage and they soon became best friends and then lovers. They truly understand each other's struggle and fear.
Ramu departed after some time with the thought of making things better for their future and their kind.
Meena married Bhavesh. Now while living in California with him and their daughter Maya, she still couldn't elude from the grasp of the past. Her husband constantly reminded her how grateful she is to have him, how kind he is to married a Dalit, is a Kshatriya. There was no love or respect between them.
Destiny takes a turn when Meena again meets her childhood love who is a successful CEO now. Soon she is wobbling in the dilemma of choosing happiness for herself, to take a stand for who she is, to spend her life with the person she loves and who respects her, or to keep going with her wrecked marriage for the sake of their daughter.
The author's well-written fiction caused a mind-provoking thought on the issue of untouchability and its practice. This book focuses on the most disturbing caste system of India that subjugates 300 million Dalits into economic and social bondage.
Lingo is lucid and easy to comprehend. Narration is deep, heart wrenching as well as strong.
It kept me engrossed till the last page and I recommend this book to everyone out there.
September 3, 2021
"The Awakening of Meena Rawat" by Anoop Judge tells the story about Meena, going back and forth between the present in the U.S. and her past growing up in India. Meena was born an "untouchable" of the Dalit caste (the lowest caste system in India). She grows up in an orphanage after her mother dies and she is miserable. She is an outcast, where students and adults treat her like garbage because of her class. Things begin to brighten for Meena with the arrival of Ramu, another Dalit. She is no longer alone. But, as life would have it, Ramu leaves the orphanage to make something of himself and Meena marries Bhavesh in an arranged marriage. Now in America, Meena dotes on her daughter, has a good job at a University, but is abused by her husband - who is of a higher caste and doesn't let her forget it. With the courage of her friend and co-worker Tammy and the reappearance of Ramu into her life, Meena begins to take her life back.
Judge was able to create a narrative that flows easily and is very descriptive. Not only with the beautiful aspects of a blossoming relationship, but also the heartwrenching parts of abuse and violence. She was able to bring these characters to life, and even the worst characters you could see how they became who they were - like Roopa, an orphan who tormented Meena, has some moments where you see where she's struggling. The caste system itself was something that I didn't know about, and I could never imagine going through what Meena, and people who were born into that caste system, went and go through. It's heartbreaking.
This book is beautifully written. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes romance novels, and even for those who don't (like me). This book is more than just romance. It's a coming-of-age story. A story about learning how to overcome abuse - whether it's from a relationship or in general because of the caste you were born. And a story of hope to take control of your life.
Judge was able to create a narrative that flows easily and is very descriptive. Not only with the beautiful aspects of a blossoming relationship, but also the heartwrenching parts of abuse and violence. She was able to bring these characters to life, and even the worst characters you could see how they became who they were - like Roopa, an orphan who tormented Meena, has some moments where you see where she's struggling. The caste system itself was something that I didn't know about, and I could never imagine going through what Meena, and people who were born into that caste system, went and go through. It's heartbreaking.
This book is beautifully written. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes romance novels, and even for those who don't (like me). This book is more than just romance. It's a coming-of-age story. A story about learning how to overcome abuse - whether it's from a relationship or in general because of the caste you were born. And a story of hope to take control of your life.
July 13, 2021
The caste system in India has always been a prominent part of the society. Although the new India is progressing gradually in tandem with the new ways of the world, casteism still exists mainly in rural areas.. This story revolves around Meena, who is a dalit (untouchable; lowest among the castes) and living in a village in India. She finds herself in an orphanage, discarded by her relatives, after the death of her mother. At a marriageable age, she is chosen as a bride by a guy from the upper caste and goes to America with him to start a new life. However, her life is not perfect as it seems to be from the outside. Stuck in an unhappy marriage, Meena reunites with her long lost first love, Ramu, in America. Has destiny given her a chance to find happiness again?
This novel is a heart breaking and intimate story of a woman who has been rejected and curbed by the society only because she was born in a lower caste. As she gets a chance to live an american life, she chooses to make herself capable even when stuck in an abusive marriage. I loved the character development of Meena, Ramu and Bhavesh. The author has given voice to all three protagonists to tell their stories and she has portrayed beautifully how our childhood plays an important role in becoming who we are. This novel has so many layers and is not just a love story of Meena and Ramu. The reappearance of lost love in Meena’s life shakes her not-so-perfect world, which she has submissively accepted, and pushes her to achieve a life she deserves. I finished this novel in the lowest possible time and I bet you won't regret reading it. Highly recommended.
This novel is a heart breaking and intimate story of a woman who has been rejected and curbed by the society only because she was born in a lower caste. As she gets a chance to live an american life, she chooses to make herself capable even when stuck in an abusive marriage. I loved the character development of Meena, Ramu and Bhavesh. The author has given voice to all three protagonists to tell their stories and she has portrayed beautifully how our childhood plays an important role in becoming who we are. This novel has so many layers and is not just a love story of Meena and Ramu. The reappearance of lost love in Meena’s life shakes her not-so-perfect world, which she has submissively accepted, and pushes her to achieve a life she deserves. I finished this novel in the lowest possible time and I bet you won't regret reading it. Highly recommended.
July 26, 2021
Meena was born into the "untouchable" caste, the lowest of the low. At the age of ten she watched her mother die unfairly due to her caste. She ends up at Grace Mercy orphanage, the nuns, while kind, cannot always protect her from the hatred of others. Then one day Ramu arrives at the orphanage, the two form a strong bond, unfortunately, they eventually part ways.
Meena is now in the US, in an unhappy marriage. The only bright side of her life is her eight year old daughter and her job. One day, at a work dinner, the guest speaker is someone she never expected to see again, Ramu. She is now faced with an extremely difficult choice.
The story is told from different perspectives and we learn a lot about the past and how it affected the future. I really appreciated being able to read all the separate angles and learn each character's thoughts and why they made the choices they make. Meena's character is strong and yet vulnerable. All of the characters were well developed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Meena is now in the US, in an unhappy marriage. The only bright side of her life is her eight year old daughter and her job. One day, at a work dinner, the guest speaker is someone she never expected to see again, Ramu. She is now faced with an extremely difficult choice.
The story is told from different perspectives and we learn a lot about the past and how it affected the future. I really appreciated being able to read all the separate angles and learn each character's thoughts and why they made the choices they make. Meena's character is strong and yet vulnerable. All of the characters were well developed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 15, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Although it is fiction it reads like an autobiography and I was sucked into Meena's world. The author paints a very vivid picture of Meena's life, first in the orphanage in India and later in America after her marriage. I found the book interesting as I didn't know much about the Hindu caste system. Scary to think that it still exists to a degree today. Worth a read.
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Every day, twenty-eight-year-old Meena Rawat is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life she has—even if she is stuck in an unhappy marriage. She and her daughter are both safe, clothed, and fed, more than she could say for herself as a child. Born into the “Untouchables” caste in a small village in North India, Meena frequently relives the nightmare of abuses and slurs she suffered in an orphanage. There is only one bright spot in her memories: the fellow ‘Untouchable’ orphan who became her best friend and first love, Ramu.
When Ramu reappears in her new American life, he’s different. Unlike her, he has cast off the shame of their upbringing and become a confident entrepreneur. Their meeting rekindles a lost passion and the two find they share a mutual sense of obligation to help the children of the outcast community they left behind. Meena fantasizes about a future with him, but will her responsibility to her daughter—and the certainty that she would lose custody—keep her chained?
*****************************
Every day, twenty-eight-year-old Meena Rawat is hounded by inner voices reminding her to be grateful for the middle-class American life she has—even if she is stuck in an unhappy marriage. She and her daughter are both safe, clothed, and fed, more than she could say for herself as a child. Born into the “Untouchables” caste in a small village in North India, Meena frequently relives the nightmare of abuses and slurs she suffered in an orphanage. There is only one bright spot in her memories: the fellow ‘Untouchable’ orphan who became her best friend and first love, Ramu.
When Ramu reappears in her new American life, he’s different. Unlike her, he has cast off the shame of their upbringing and become a confident entrepreneur. Their meeting rekindles a lost passion and the two find they share a mutual sense of obligation to help the children of the outcast community they left behind. Meena fantasizes about a future with him, but will her responsibility to her daughter—and the certainty that she would lose custody—keep her chained?
August 3, 2021
I loved this book and couldn’t keep it down! Finished it very quickly. Definitely movie worthy story!! Authors way of expressing and showcasing details and nuances is superb ! One feels like they are there witnessing the scenes as a movie! Also, I liked chapter and role based story telling to put all perspectives into light. Meena and Ram’s separate orientations were very genuine and brought to life with a lot of innocence, care and detail. My favorite part was Meena’s inquisition into herself, “What would I do if Ram hadn’t turned up?”, taking a huge risk renting her own place, moving out so she could respect herself, not wanting to depend on any man to rescue herself was beautiful at many levels. Intimate scenes were also described with a lot of care and gravitas. I highly recommend reading this love story that just effortlessly flows from one scene to another! Enjoy!
July 17, 2021
Thank you to Black Rose Writing for sponsoring this Goodreads Giveaway and for gifting me a Kindle copy of this book to review! This is a second-chance romance novel about a woman who grew up in an Indian orphanage as a member of the "Untouchable" caste, and who now lives in the U.S. with an abusive husband. One day at work, Meena runs into her old flame from her teenage years who also moved to the U.S., but who feels much more confident in himself and his past than she does. This is more than a simple romance novel - it's about a woman finding herself and her own voice. While the premise seems like it would be predictable, it is not at all. The structure of the story kept me turning the pages to find out what happens, and I was so uncertain about how the book would end!
July 21, 2021
This was an amazing book. I knew practically nothing about the East Indian caste system and now know a little bit more - my heart wept for the treatment of women in general in their role as wives as well as the treatment of the Dalit, the lowest level of Hindu caste formerly known as ‘the untouchables.’ The story line about the two main characters of this story Meena and Ram, both Dalit’s, follows them from their youth in India, to their time in America and full circle back to India. Meena marries a member of the warrior caste who is abusive to her, a Dalit. To see how she deals with this and if she overcomes it you need to read the story! It really is a book about moving from the darkness of the past into the lightness and possibilities of the now.
August 22, 2021
The story of two young lovers who gave each other strength and hope in the midst of their ordeal just to be separated because of uncertainty and ambition is heart-breaking. My heart goes out to Meena who suffered the loss of her first love and the reverberations of having the lowest of the low position in the caste system in India even though she was already in America. Rumi belonged to the same caste as Meena but he believed that the status in the society assigned to him even before birth was not his eventual fate. He was decisive in pursuing his ambition by taking brazen actions that actually broke Meena's heart.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the story because I find the author's prose beautiful and original. Besides spinning an extraordinary love story, she also explained the cultural aspects and social issues very well through illustrations, backstories, and dialogs. In addition to this, the way she described a place made me feel as if I was at that pace like in the orphanage, or in Meena's office, or at the airport. The author's writing left a great impression on me.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a love story with heavy themes.
Thank you Anoop Judge, Black Rose Writing, and LibraryThing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the story because I find the author's prose beautiful and original. Besides spinning an extraordinary love story, she also explained the cultural aspects and social issues very well through illustrations, backstories, and dialogs. In addition to this, the way she described a place made me feel as if I was at that pace like in the orphanage, or in Meena's office, or at the airport. The author's writing left a great impression on me.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a love story with heavy themes.
Thank you Anoop Judge, Black Rose Writing, and LibraryThing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2021
This solid, emotional and romantic novel is the story of Meena, a child in the lowest caste in India. Because of her low status, when her mother dies, she is sent to an orphanage, where life continues to be harsh. Only a friend named Ramu makes life tolerable, but she loses touch when Ramu leaves the orphanage. Many years later, married to a higher caste husband, Meena continues to be reminded of her low caste status, even though she now lives in America. A chance meeting with Ramu again, changes her life.
This novel is rich in the Indian food and the effects of the caste system on the culture of life in India. Thank you Goodreads for a digital copy of this novel.
This novel is rich in the Indian food and the effects of the caste system on the culture of life in India. Thank you Goodreads for a digital copy of this novel.
October 17, 2022
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
This book holds well in both traditional cultural norms and the struggle of Americanization of a modern woman.
I learned so much about the caste system and felt the struggle as the main character, Meena, found herself at various moments in time. While I found the chapters narrated by the other male characters unnecessary, they were not a deterrent in any way to the flow of this story.
Kudos to the author for her conversational writing style!
This book holds well in both traditional cultural norms and the struggle of Americanization of a modern woman.
I learned so much about the caste system and felt the struggle as the main character, Meena, found herself at various moments in time. While I found the chapters narrated by the other male characters unnecessary, they were not a deterrent in any way to the flow of this story.
Kudos to the author for her conversational writing style!
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