The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey is praised for its rich historical setting in 1920s Bombay and strong, intelligent protagonist, Perveen Mistry, who is inspired by India's first female lawyer. The mystery is compelling, though some find the pacing slow at times. Massey effectively weaves cultural and social issues into the narrative, enhancing its depth.

A reader who enjoys The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey typically appreciates historical mysteries with strong female protagonists. Fans of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith or Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear would likely find this book engaging for its richly detailed setting and social issues.

In The Widows of Malabar Hill, readers follow Perveen Mistry, Bombay's first female solicitor in the 1920s, as she navigates legal and societal challenges. Tasked with safeguarding the inheritance of three Muslim widows secluded in purdah, Perveen uncovers deceit and hidden tensions, combining a murder mystery with insights into colonial India and women's legal rights.

Mysterious / Adventurous / Suspenseful / Informative / Contemplative

Sujata Massey

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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The Widows of Malabar Hill Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Widows of Malabar Hill Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1921” - Part 2: “1916”

Parts 1-2

The Widows of Malabar Hill Parts 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “1921”

Part 3 The Widows of Malabar Hill Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “1916” - Part 5: “1917”

Parts 4-5

The Widows of Malabar Hill Parts 4-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “1921” - Part 9: “1917”

Parts 6-9

The Widows of Malabar Hill Parts 6-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 10: “1921”

Part 10 The Widows of Malabar Hill Part 10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Widows of Malabar Hill Character Analysis

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Themes

The Widows of Malabar Hill Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Widows of Malabar Hill Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Widows of Malabar Hill Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Widows of Malabar Hill Essay Topics

The Widows of Malabar Hill

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Widows of Malabar Hill?

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Book Details