Geeta’s no-good husband disappeared five years ago. She didn’t kill him, but everyone thinks she did–no matter how much she protests. But she soon discovers that being known as a “self-made” widow has some surprising perks. No one messes with her, no one threatens her, and no one tries to control (ahem, marry) her. It’s even been good for her business; no one wants to risk getting on her bad side by not buying her jewelry.
Freedom must look good on Geeta, because other women in the village have started asking for her help to get rid of their own no-good husbands…but not all of them are asking nicely.
Now that Geeta’s fearsome reputation has become a double-edged sword, she must decide how far to go to protect it, along with the life she’s built. Because even the best-laid plans of would-be widows tend to go awry.
I was undecided about downloading this book when I received a NetGalley widget, but the description was so appealing and original I couldn’t resist.
If you’re a fan of dark humor (I’m a devoted one), The Bandit Queens will give you plenty to snicker about. The banter between these women and their comments to others are hilarious at times. That being said, also prepare yourself for the horrific parts of the story – the physical and emotional abuse of women and their treatment as second class citizens. I wanted to crawl through the pages and strangle some of the men myself.
Geeta’s abusive husband disappeared five years ago, and that’s just fine with her. She’s doing fine without him and enjoys the single life. The village gossip doesn’t really bother her, and since she doesn’t care for children all that much, their comments about her being a witch roll right off. She’s busy running her jewelry business, attending loan group meetings, and saving for a refrigerator. She even adopts Bandit, a dog who’s an astute judge of character. Maybe she’s occasionally lonely and is basically estranged from her childhood best friend, but she’s content with her life. And then everything is upended when she’s asked to help kill the husband of a woman in her loan group.
Blackmail, murder, animal rescue, threatened poisoning, plans gone awry, gourd gifting, lizard stalking – it’s all here. There’s also female empowerment, reclaimed friendships, and well-deserved doses of karma. Even though I didn’t understand all the references, I enjoyed learning more about the culture and small village life, and I’m so glad I read this book. You’ll find yourself cheering for these remarkable women throughout the novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Books and Such 
It does sound like a humorous book. I even chuckled during your review!
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Although there are some dark parts that were tough to get through, I’m so glad I read this book, Priscilla. I laughed out loud at several of the women’s conversations.
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I’ve only heard good things about this book! I can’t wait to read it myself!
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I adored it! It felt so good to see some of the characters getting what they deserved – both good and bad, lol.
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I will enjoy this book. It sounds full of entertainment. Amazing review!
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Thanks, Yesha! I predict you’re going to love it as much as I did.
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Reblogged this on https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
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Oh!Is it recommended to be read by men? LOL Maybe to be warned if the next salad has undefinable components.;-) Thanks for the great introduction by reviewing, Teri! Best wishes, Michael
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Honestly, I think men would get a kick out of this, Michael – not the abuse parts, obviously. Thanks so much for sharing!
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I don’t think this one is for me, but I expect it will get a lot of buzz. Great review, Teri!
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It’s gotten some very positive reviews. It’s not something I’d typically pick up, but something about the description called to me, Mae.
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I love stories of women who stand up and reclaim their power, and this book sounds like it does that in spades. Thank you for sharing!
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It sure does, Jan. I was so proud of them. It kind of felt like they were friends.
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This is my favorite book I’ve read so far this year! I think it’s gonna be very talked about over the next couple of months. Great review 🙂
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I think you’re right, Liv. A lot to discuss with this one, and I could easily see it being a book club selection. I sure did enjoy those women.
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Sounds like a fun read and the cover seens fitting for it.
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I thought that cover was adorable. The colors really catch your eye.
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It does sound fun, Teri. Thanks for sharing
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I love me some dark humor, John, and this sure supplied it, lol.
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Good.
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It sounds like a lot of gallows humor, but still a fascinating look into another culture and world view.
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That it is, Deby. Parts of it are very sobering.
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HI Teri, this sounds intriguing. Is it set on a modern timeline?
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It is, Robbie, and that’s something I liked about it.
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I like the sound of this one. And it’s a bonus that it has “Bandit, a dog who’s an astute judge of character”.
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Pets in a book always deserve bonus points, and Bandit was an awesome addition to the story, Wendy. He was also a rescue, which made it even better.
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It’s such an impactful story. And very eye opening. It also made me feel very grateful that I’ve never known that kind of life myself. Excellent review!
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It sure is, Tessa. It’s sad that in today’s world women are still treated this way. Sure makes you count your blessings.
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