About this book
Set in Gandhi’s volatile India, the story opens with Anjali, aged eighteen, about to be burnt alive on her husband’s funeral pyre – the conventional widow’s fate.
After a dramatic escape, things go badly wrong and she embarks on an extraordinary, often terrifying, journey
of discovery.
Saleem, Anjali’s childhood friend, is entwined in her destiny. As he searches for her, he is caught up in the violence surrounding India’s struggle for freedom.
At the heart of this fast-moving narrative is the love of two men for one woman.
About the author
Hema Macherla was born in the rural village of Atmakur, Andhrapradesh, India. She has published 25 short stories and a number of articles in Indian magazines. She lives with her husband in London and has two grown up children.
ISBN: 978-0-9559618-6-1
Published: March 2011
Reviews
“Dramatically pitched and packed with incident from the start when its teenage heroine, Anjali, is held in captivity to be burned on her husband’s funeral pyre.”
— Tom Adair, The Scotsman
“Compelling, charming and utterly convincing from the very first page. Hema Macherla is a writer to watch.”
— Lesley Horton, crime writer
“A stunning novel about irrational traditions and conflicts, and the courage to overcome all odds. A must read for all.”
— Smita Singh, Chairperson VAANI, Asian Writers and Artists
“Plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader hooked.”
— Maggie Hamand, novelist
“Blue Eyes is a novel about courage, about following your heart and being true to yourself when everything is set against you. It’s evocative, thought-provoking and enriched with unforgettable characters.”
— Pam McIlroy, blogger
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