The Return Present

De: Sonia Lakshman

Narrado por: Sonia Lakshman

It was about or exactly a time in Poona, India, where in a household of all women–bar Raju–a battle of wills ensues. Ferangiz the unofficial head of the household and her sister Farida go head-to-head in a fight over the fate of Mehnaz, their home’s collective and beloved daughter. One calling, the other warning, both with ferocity of feeling.

Superstition encounters conviction, independence counters devotion, rivalry rules the roost, grief finds its rage.

Who will be right, what will be lost, what will the stars foretell. A gate clangs, a tempest begins, and time unwavering spools its tale.

©2025 Sonia Lakshman (P)2025 Sonia Lakshman

Fabulous narration by the author and authentic accents really add to the delivery of the story by audible.

Suspenseful story holding my attention to the very end. Great story line, although I did re-listen to the first chapter after completing the book as I missed some of the detail initially. At the beginning it took me about 15-20 minutes to adjust to the accents. Although this would not be an issue if reading the book vs an audible, however, listening to the accents of the different characters in my opinion, added to the enjoyment of the book.
The author paints a very clear picture of the lifestyle in India during that era and she demonstrates a wonderfully descriptive skill in her work.
This was a thoroughly refreshing experience that stirred a myriad of emotions…. Funny as well as heart-wrenching … a good book club read!
I would highly recommended this

Just wondrous writing

What a book! I found myself driving the long way home as I just didn’t want the story to end. Beautifully written and the narration by the author brought it all to life for me. I laughed out loud, cried a lot….I was just sad that it had to finish.