Reviews - The Magnificent Ruins

178 reviews for:

The Magnificent Ruins

Nayantara Roy

3.89 AVERAGE

raziak's review

4.0

emotional medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

The book is good with interesting characters and plot, but it would sometimes drag on. The theme of intergenerational trauma was almost added at the end, while alluded to in the book. This piece was compelling and could have been brought in earlier, and could have been explored through the characters. Overall, it was long and could have been wrapped up less than the 484 pages.

efirer's review

5.0

Totally absorbing, this novel offers up a family saga, adding in the Kolkata setting, great characters and a touch of politics, making for a fantastic read. Lila De unexpectedly inherits her family home in Kolkata. Leaving her Brooklyn home, her new promotion, and her friends, Lila flies to Kolkata to encounter her family questioning the legitimacy of the terms of the will. At the same time, Lila confronts the complicated history with her mother, eventually uncovering many family secrets and regrets. I loved the book and highly recommend it for the Indian culture, the family relationships, and the excellent writing. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

quietmachine's review against another edition

4.0

emotional funny reflective sad medium-paced

l_smart's review

5.0

Loved this book! The Indian culture is beautifully woven into the heart of the book. The transformation of the main character depends on the family. I loved seeing how she reconciled her place in the 2 cultures of America and Indian descent.