Haveli by Zeenat Mahal

"Haveli" by Zeenat Mahal - Quick read!

This book is published by Indiareads Incorporated in 2013 and has 90 pages. It's a novella. 

Chandani, granddaughter of widow of Nawab of Jalalabad (Begum) is in love with a person 20 years older. Begum still lives in world of Nawabs. An England educated handsome, sexy, alpha male (Taimur) is introduced to Chandani. Taimur and Chandani can't see eye to eye. Enter her absent father.

Who is Chandani in love with? Is it love? Can she and Taimur ever become friends? What's the real motive of her father's return? How will Chandani cope up to the upheaval?

Chandani and Taimur call each other Satan and Medusa. They can't stand each other and don't miss an opportunity to trade insults. These sparks between the two are adorable and enjoyable. She calls him by a variety of names, all characters from English movies or fairytales. I liked this idea. It's a novelty. 

Character of Chandani is a curious case study. She is beautiful, confident, well read, pampered. However her behaviour after father's entry, her denial to see reason, her hurting the ones close to her goes against the character. Suddenly she appears shallow, naive and becomes a little girl lost in the world of adults, although she is almost 21. These characteristics are incongruous with her character until then.

 Its like a Hindi movie plot. It has hate, love, conspiracy, emotional scenes and happy ending. The end comes little abruptly. Her father and Faisal suddenly disappear. Her mother's will suddenly appears. But all in all you enjoy. 

Why is the book titled Haveli? Because she's rich, she's had a sheltered life, she's a brat, wealth hasn't gone to her head? Only author can answer that. 

From the political and Bollywood references one can infer that the story happens in Pakistan of late sixties, early seventies. It appears a little bold for the time period, although for today's reader it's nothing. 

There are a lot of similarities about these Pakistani characters and Indians. Big family, a matriarch, pampered daughter, love for food and parties, big family etc. 

Why did I read this book? Curiosity about Pakistan and Pakistani author. 

What I didn't like? Loose threads.

What did I like? Sparks between Chandani and Taimur.

Recommend reading.