A Good Indian Girl
Author: Mansi Shah
Publication Date: September 3, 2024
Publisher: Park Row
Genre: Fiction, Contemporary
Rating: ★★★★★
Book Description:
A journey of self-discovery and second chances what happens when a “good Indian girl” finally puts herself first? Mansi Shah’s A Good Indian Girl is a heartfelt, thought-provoking, and empowering novel that explores cultural expectations, personal dreams, and the courage to break free from tradition.
Jyoti has spent her whole life following the rules—being the obedient daughter, marrying the man her parents chose, and giving up her dream job as a head chef to focus on having a baby. But when infertility struggles to take a toll on her marriage, her husband leaves her, and suddenly, she’s not just childless and unemployed—she’s also seen as a disgrace to her Gujarati family.
Needing a fresh start, Jyoti heads to Tuscany to visit her best friend, Karishma. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, wine, and endless pasta, she rediscovers her love for cooking. She finds herself at a crossroads when her fusion recipes and candid cooking vlogs unexpectedly go viral. As family secrets come to light, she’s forced to choose between the life she was raised to live and the life she truly wants.
My Thoughts:
A story that stays with us from the first page, this book pulled me in. Mansi Shah brilliantly captures the immense pressure on South Asian women to meet cultural expectations—whether it’s marriage, motherhood, or career choices. Jyoti’s struggles with infertility, divorce, and self-worth felt incredibly raw and honest. Her transformation from a woman weighed down by society’s judgments to a thriving, confident creator was deeply inspiring.
One of the most powerful aspects of this book is how it shines a light on life after divorce, a topic still rarely discussed in South Asian communities. Jyoti’s story reminds us that happiness should never depend on others—not a spouse, society, or even family expectations. Women are often made to feel that their worth is tied to marriage and children, but A Good Indian Girl challenges this notion beautifully.
And let’s talk about Karishma—what a gem of a best friend! She’s the kind of person who reminds you to live life unapologetically, and I loved every scene she was in. The friendship between Jyoti and Karishma felt so authentic, offering a refreshing contrast to the sometimes suffocating familial expectations Jyoti faced.
Conclusion:
A must-read for every woman who’s ever questioned her path, this book isn’t just a novel—it’s a mirror reflecting the struggles and triumphs of so many women. This story will resonate deeply if you’ve ever felt torn between what’s expected of you and what you truly want.
If you love books that explore family dynamics, self-discovery, and second chances, A Good Indian Girl deserves a spot on your TBR. It’s emotional, empowering, and packed with moments to make you think, feel, and cheer for Jyoti’s journey.
✨ Perfect for fans of emotional coming-of-age stories, women’s fiction, and books that challenge societal norms! ✨
📚 Have you read A Good Indian Girl? Let’s chat in the comments!
Thank you to Netgalley & Harlequin for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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