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Bookseller recommendation
“Parini Shroff uses humor to lighten the complex topics in this novel. Because murder, domestic violence and women's rights in India are real and heavy topics for a book. But she creates the right balance and highlights the strength of friendship among women in this part mystery, part historical fiction, and part social commentary.”
— Ann • Dragon Tale Books
Bookseller recommendation
“The dark and hilarious escapades of a women's loan group plagued by abusive husbands in a small Indian village. While the topics are serious and all too real, Shroff handles them with wit, wickedly sharp humor, and occasional absurdity, making for a reflective read that will have you laughing out loud. Nankani's excellent narration will have you instantly identifying characters and laughing at their antics.”
— Lauren • Chapterhouse Books
Bookseller recommendation
“I loved this story of female friendship and small town life. I laughed out loud so many times and the narrator of the audiobook was perfect. Highly recommended!”
— Katherine • Letterpress Books
Bookseller recommendation
“Murder and mayhem abound in a small Indian village, and I couldn’t get enough of it! With a delightful cast of characters and wonderful dark humor (because sometimes you have to laugh to keep from despairing), Parini Shroff paints an in-depth picture of life in 21st-century India. Through the eyes of the main character Geeta, her life and those of five other women are revealed for the reader’s examination. The intersections of gender, caste, and religion are clearly displayed as these women begin to fight against the societal expectations forced upon them. Although the details are specific to India, the overarching themes of power, gender, religion, and social status are sadly universal. I cheered these women on, feeling their anger and despair coupled with the hope they create for themselves. This novel was inspired by the story of Phoolan Devi, a former member of India’s parliament who was assassinated in 2001. I now also want to learn more about her and her legend.”
— Nancy • Raven Book Store
Bookseller recommendation
“This was even better than I was expecting! Shroff's writing felt heartfelt, honest, and full of real-life conversations between friends. I'll be honest, I struggled with the Indian language, the amount of r*pe and violence toward women, and culture history. But it didn't keep me from being totally invested in Geeta's life (and vulgar dialogue - which had me laughing out loud). Recommended for readers who like novels that are quirky, humorous, and full of getting even. (I'd be shocked if this isn't turned into a movie) ”
— Jenny • E. Shaver, bookseller
Summary
GOOD MORNING AMERICA BUZZ PICK • A young Indian woman finds the false rumors that she killed her husband surprisingly useful—until other women in the village start asking for her help getting rid of their own husbands—in this razor-sharp debut.
"A radically feel-good story about the murder of no-good husbands by a cast of unsinkable women.”—The New York Times Book Review
Five years ago, Geeta lost her no-good husband. As in, she actually lost him—he walked out on her and she has no idea where he is. But in her remote village in India, rumor has it that Geeta killed him. And it’s a rumor that just won’t die.
It turns out that being known as a “self-made” widow comes with some perks. No one messes with her, harasses her, or tries to control (ahem, marry) her. It’s even been good for business; no one dares to not buy her jewelry.
Freedom must look good on Geeta, because now other women are asking for her “expertise,” making her an unwitting consultant for husband disposal.
And not all of them are asking nicely.
With Geeta’s dangerous reputation becoming a double-edged sword, she has to find a way to protect the life she’s built—but even the best-laid plans of would-be widows tend to go awry. What happens next sets in motion a chain of events that will change everything, not just for Geeta, but for all the women in their village.
Filled with clever criminals, second chances, and wry and witty women, Parini Shroff’s The Bandit Queens is a razor-sharp debut of humor and heart that readers won’t soon forget.

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