In Beautiful Disguises by Rajeev Balasubramanyam

In Beautiful Disguises

Rajeev Balasubramanyam

A familiar theme of the younger generation struggling to break free from strong family traditions but told in a refreshingly different way. For me it is the characters that make this book unforgettable. They speak in a way that is often very funny but their words have a much deeper meaning. This first novel is beautifully written and I found it very touching - I'll certainly look for any to follow.

Extract
I can see how it might be difficult for someone new to Asia. Asians simply do things differently, Rutger. Everyone has servants here.

At this point Raju did a most unexpected thing. I don't think he even decided to open his mouth, but the words came fluttering out.

-I don't.

Silence. Mrs Marceau fought to rescue the party from proletarian insurrection by laughing affectionately at her servant's wit, and throwing him a glance that would have castrated a lesser man.

Parallels
  • Fasting, Feasting by Anita Desai
  • White Teeth by Zadie Smith
  • East is East - the film