Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Molly’s Perspective:
I picked this up because I’m always drawn to stories about women creating their own safe spaces away from a judgmental world. There was something so powerful about these women reclaiming their desires and their voices in a society that tried to keep them quiet. I loved the "secret" nature of their gathering—it reminded me of our own little sanctuary. However, the tonal shift was a bit jarring for me. One minute it’s a beautiful, empowering story about community and self-discovery, and the next, it plunges into a very dark, gritty murder mystery. I wanted more of the heart and less of the thriller.
Miralyn’s Perspective:
I really liked the parts about the stories the widows told! It was brave of them to talk about things people usually think are "naughty" or "shameful." It made me feel happy to see them realize that their bodies and their feelings matter. But I agree with Melly—it got a little bit scary and sad toward the end. I wished it stayed focused on the ladies helping each other and the friendship they built. It felt like two different books shoved together, and the scary parts made my anxiety act up a little bit.
Overall Thoughts:
A very important look at culture, sisterhood, and female agency, but the mystery subplot felt a bit out of place. It’s worth a read if you like character-driven stories, but be prepared for a sudden shift in vibes!
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Molly’s Perspective:
I picked this up because I’m always drawn to stories about women creating their own safe spaces away from a judgmental world. There was something so powerful about these women reclaiming their desires and their voices in a society that tried to keep them quiet. I loved the "secret" nature of their gathering—it reminded me of our own little sanctuary. However, the tonal shift was a bit jarring for me. One minute it’s a beautiful, empowering story about community and self-discovery, and the next, it plunges into a very dark, gritty murder mystery. I wanted more of the heart and less of the thriller.
Miralyn’s Perspective:
I really liked the parts about the stories the widows told! It was brave of them to talk about things people usually think are "naughty" or "shameful." It made me feel happy to see them realize that their bodies and their feelings matter. But I agree with Melly—it got a little bit scary and sad toward the end. I wished it stayed focused on the ladies helping each other and the friendship they built. It felt like two different books shoved together, and the scary parts made my anxiety act up a little bit.
Overall Thoughts:
A very important look at culture, sisterhood, and female agency, but the mystery subplot felt a bit out of place. It’s worth a read if you like character-driven stories, but be prepared for a sudden shift in vibes!
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