A review by misspalah
Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal

emotional funny mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

For the first time in their lives they could openly share their most private thoughts and know that they weren’t alone. I helped them to discover that, and I became willing to learn from them as well. Those women were used to turning the other cheek when injustices were committed because it’s inappropriate to get involved, or to go to the police and betray your own. But they didn’t hesitate to help me and put themselves at risk when I was in danger. They know that they’re capable of fighting.
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This was such a rollercoaster ride for supposedly what people consider a lighthearted book. At least, that’s what i am assuming from the title. Then, we ventured into ‘South Asian’ community in Southall London that has been living there for at least 20 years but still maintaining their traditions (both good and bad depending on how people perceived it). And this tradition thriving while living in a so called modern western society was being normalised despite the large gap that existed between the young and older generations. Our Main Character, Nikki is the epitome of it. She was part of the community but she was fully westernised. She resented the internalised patriarchy that her mother and sister has but at the same time, she knew it would take years to dismantle it. She quit her study , worked at pub and moved out of the house which is a nightmare for any South Asian Mother. Then, she stumbled upon creative writing job in the temple community board which led her to the circle of a women twice her age , some are widows, some are divorcees and some just want to spend their time freely by signing up to this class. Sure, who would’ve thought that a bunch of widows, divorcees and bored housewives could’ve written a good erotic stories that practically saved some of the dry marriage across the community in London specifically for those that managed to get their own copy. BUT something sinister is lurking underneath this comedic plot : The sudden death of 2 girls around the area (although not at the same time), the suspicious suicide notes, the question of honour or shame, the spying and intimidation of certain people who branded themselves as ‘brothers’ which point to none other than ‘Honor Killing’. Nikki found herself in the middle of the community that dont want to talk about it despite knowing the truth and with people who would’ve go to a certain length to protect the honour of the community. Overall, this was such a wholesome read! I was afraid the erotic part will be uncomfortable read for me considering i am pretty much a prude but luckily nothing too extreme. I have to commend the book particularly the way the author struck balance of the humorous & colorful characters, literotica and at the same time demonstrating important issues in South Asian society in the book . 
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