The setup by Falguni Kothari

​"The setup" by Falguni Kothari- Sudden death!

This book is published in 2021. 

Aditi, third generation American, is a pediatric intern. She idolizes her grandfather. One day he requests Aditi to “meet” three boys, grandchildren of his friends, a prospective match. Aditi doesn’t like the idea of ‘arranged marriage’ one bit, but agrees nevertheless as an exception because she can’t disappoint her Dadu. Her first date is Krishna Lal. He too is a reluctant participant on his granny’s request. The second date is a surprise. 

What happens at first date? Why is the second date a surprise? Will Aditi enjoy the date or will it be a torture? Is there something called arranged marriage in this age? Is there a love story where Aditi is not the protagonist?

This book has limited number of characters. Dadu (Dr. Madhav Gupta, retired neurosurgeon) moved from Florida to New York to stay with his son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter after death of his wife. Aditi adores her grandfather. They have a special bond. She is a competent doctor. Prachi is Aditi’s younger sister and a marketing executive for big pharma. Krishna, the funny guy, is a lawyer. He is tall, muscular, handsome and witty. Gulabo aunty runs the restaurant called ‘Gulabo’. Nani (Gayatri) is 81, looks 61 and acts like 21.

It’s a match of opposites. Marwari vegetarian girl and Punjabi carnivorous guy. One loves good life, one is immersed in career. One believes in the institute of marriage, one doesn’t believe in marriage. One brags, one doesn’t. One is extrovert, one is introvert. 

The story starts well. Develops nicely. Then it piques and it abruptly ends. It’s sudden death. Poof! It’s a tiny novel. Author could have used a few hundred more words for proper landing. This abrupt end leads to the biggest question remaining unanswered and relegated to a non issue. One believes in marriage and one doesn’t. How does it end?

It’s Novel by an author of Indian origin about Indians settled abroad. This is a new genre. It’s a decent Feel Good novel. 

My collectible sentence from the book:

I froze like a brainless Popsicle. 

Why did I read this book? Blurb. 

What did I like?  Overall story.  

What I didn't like? Sudden death. 

Recommend reading.