Genre: Romance
Publisher: Berkley
Publishing Date: June 2010
Reviewed by Ashley Barrett
“After retiring, you’ve been like an unemployed barber who shaves his cat for want of anything better to do,” Mrs. Ali chides her husband, a retired government clerk. Mr. Ali agrees and so he begins a matchmaking business to occupy his time.
Much to the couple’s surprise, the marriage bureau soon represents clients all throughout their region of Southern India. The now busy marriage bureau irks Mrs. Ali. The phone rings constantly and a steady stream of strangers parade through her front yard, demanding Mr. Ali’s constant attention.
After a few disheartening interviews for a potential assistant, Mrs. Ali wagers with her husband. If she can find a suitable assistant, he’ll treat her to a nice dinner out. In short order Mrs. Ali finds the level-headed Aruna, who possesses her own talent for matchmaking. Sadly, Aruna plans no matches in her own future because her family can’t afford a dowry; or a wedding. But fate tosses Aruna and the Ali family a few surprises.
The Marriage Bureau for Rich People brightened several rainy afternoons in my summer. I thoroughly enjoyed the humorous and true-to-life people, the twists and turns of the plot and the exotic details of life in Southern India. As an American, I appreciated the author’s brief, non-intrusive explanations of Indian culture. The story resembled a Jane Austen tale set in the east but and generously sprinkled with humor.
Farahad Zama’s first novel, The Marriage Bureau for Rich People won the Melissa Nathan award for Comedy Romance. I recommend this book for people who love sweet romance and fun, lighthearted stories.
Review copy provided by Berkley.
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