What do you think?
Rate this book
Vish Puri #4
The Case of the Love Commandos
The wonderful fourth outing for Delhi detective Vish Puri.
When Ram and Tulsi fall in love, the young woman's parents are dead set against the union. She's from a high-caste family; he's an Untouchable, from the lowest strata of Indian society. Young Tulsi's father locks her up and promises to hunt down the "loverboy dog." Fortunately, India's Love Commandos, a group of volunteers dedicated to helping mixed-caste couples, come to the rescue. But just after they liberate Tulsi, Ram is mysteriously snatched from his hiding place.
The task of finding him falls to India's "Most Private Investigator". Unfortunately, Vish Puri is not having a good month. He's failed to recover a cache of stolen jewels. His wallet has been stolen and he's having to rely on his infuriating Mummy-ji to get it back. And to top it all, his archrival, suave investigator Hari Kumar, is also trying to locate Ram. To reunite the star-crossed lovers, Puri and his team of operatives must infiltrate Ram's village and navigate the caste politics shaped by millennia-old prejudices.
When Ram and Tulsi fall in love, the young woman's parents are dead set against the union. She's from a high-caste family; he's an Untouchable, from the lowest strata of Indian society. Young Tulsi's father locks her up and promises to hunt down the "loverboy dog." Fortunately, India's Love Commandos, a group of volunteers dedicated to helping mixed-caste couples, come to the rescue. But just after they liberate Tulsi, Ram is mysteriously snatched from his hiding place.
The task of finding him falls to India's "Most Private Investigator". Unfortunately, Vish Puri is not having a good month. He's failed to recover a cache of stolen jewels. His wallet has been stolen and he's having to rely on his infuriating Mummy-ji to get it back. And to top it all, his archrival, suave investigator Hari Kumar, is also trying to locate Ram. To reunite the star-crossed lovers, Puri and his team of operatives must infiltrate Ram's village and navigate the caste politics shaped by millennia-old prejudices.
310 pages, Hardcover
First published October 8, 2013
114 people are currently reading
1661 people want to read
About the author
Tarquin Hall
15 books653 followersTarquin Hall is a British author and journalist who has lived and worked throughout South Asia, the Middle East and Africa. He is the author of The Case of the Missing Servant, dozens of articles, and three works of non-fiction, including the highly acclaimed Salaam Brick Lane, an account of a year spent above a Bangladeshi sweat shop in London’s notorious East End. He is married to Indian-born journalist, Anu Anand. They have a young son and divide their time between London and Delhi.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews
September 11, 2016
Tarquin Hall has got me out of a most definite whodunit reading slump which had made me abandon/shelve atleast a dozen books this year at various percentages of completion. This book was perfectly unputdownable, thanks to Hall's superb and thorough grasp of the commonalities of Indian life and his featuring collaborative detective work rather than the much common and sometimes grossly unbelievable one-man-does-it-all.
The starting made me jittery since the scenes seemed to be straight out of unbearable,headache-inducing Mein tujko bhaga laya hoon 'tere gar se' - 'tere baap ke dar se' style movies, but then I gradually began to see light. The Indian settings were rendered with enviable precision with the colours and squalor in their true hues, the characters were authentic(their Indian English included), the mystery was savory with a heady mix of social themes(although some of them were a little overblown) and classic Indian pulp, and it features every spicy North Indian food that ever was. In almost every page there is some familiar facet of Indian life that either brings back memories from unknown recesses or sparks a giggle owing to Hall's comic touches or makes you wonder how he could observe such subtle minutiae of Indian life and then knit it all up into the fabric of the story. His sense of satire is especially good, doesn't get obnoxious at any time and the one who gets parodied the most is Vish Puri himself. At some parts I got reminded of one of my most favorite satire serials, Jaspal Bhatti's Flop show, which I've watched countless times and still do sometimes in youtube.
A refreshing read. Will have to find time for the earlier ones in this series.
The starting made me jittery since the scenes seemed to be straight out of unbearable,headache-inducing Mein tujko bhaga laya hoon 'tere gar se' - 'tere baap ke dar se' style movies, but then I gradually began to see light. The Indian settings were rendered with enviable precision with the colours and squalor in their true hues, the characters were authentic(their Indian English included), the mystery was savory with a heady mix of social themes(although some of them were a little overblown) and classic Indian pulp, and it features every spicy North Indian food that ever was. In almost every page there is some familiar facet of Indian life that either brings back memories from unknown recesses or sparks a giggle owing to Hall's comic touches or makes you wonder how he could observe such subtle minutiae of Indian life and then knit it all up into the fabric of the story. His sense of satire is especially good, doesn't get obnoxious at any time and the one who gets parodied the most is Vish Puri himself. At some parts I got reminded of one of my most favorite satire serials, Jaspal Bhatti's Flop show, which I've watched countless times and still do sometimes in youtube.
A refreshing read. Will have to find time for the earlier ones in this series.
December 19, 2020
This is the fourth book in the charming, entertaining and informative series about Vish Puri, India's Most Private Investigator. The Love Commandos are a volunteer group working to unite lovers of different castes who are forbidden from marrying. They believe that this will lead to more social equality and better conditions for everyone in India. In Agra, The Love Commandos are helping Tulsi, a wealthy, high caste young woman escape from her parents and an arranged marriage. She is in love with a low caste young man, Ram. When Ram disappears from the appointed rendezvous spot, the Love Commandos enlist the help of Vish Puri.
There is also an amusing side story involving Puri's mother, the wonderful Mummy-ji, who handles her own investigation while on a pilgrimage with Puri's wife and other family members.
It is not necessary to have read the prior books in order to enjoy this one. It has as inventive plot that really has nothing to do with the Romeo and Juliet theme. People are kidnapped and murdered, property is stolen and secrets are revealed. There is a lot going on in this book. The story is told exceptionally well and is a quick read because it is very involving. As usual for this series, there is social commentary subtlety woven into the story. As a bonus, there are recipes and a glossary at the back of the book. I look forward to Mr. Hall's next book.
I was given a free digital review copy of this book by the publisher.
There is also an amusing side story involving Puri's mother, the wonderful Mummy-ji, who handles her own investigation while on a pilgrimage with Puri's wife and other family members.
It is not necessary to have read the prior books in order to enjoy this one. It has as inventive plot that really has nothing to do with the Romeo and Juliet theme. People are kidnapped and murdered, property is stolen and secrets are revealed. There is a lot going on in this book. The story is told exceptionally well and is a quick read because it is very involving. As usual for this series, there is social commentary subtlety woven into the story. As a bonus, there are recipes and a glossary at the back of the book. I look forward to Mr. Hall's next book.
I was given a free digital review copy of this book by the publisher.
November 23, 2013
The Vish Puri series is a fun and interesting story that mingles Indian life & customs with family & friends, mystery & murder. As each book is read, we learn more about the characters, life & custom in India and about the food….so much delicious food. The combination of story, characters, life and mystery is charming and entangling. These books are fun to read.
In this book, Tarquin Hall examines the caste system of India and how it segregates the people from mingling together in many ways and from trusting each other. A different caste is a different world and doesn’t mix with your own. Tarquin shows that with time & open-mindedness the caste system can be overcome and India made stronger.
Mummy-ji is a hoot! She plays a larger part in this book and her sections were fun and entertaining. That is one woman who can stand on her own. She’s smart, sassy, brave, tenacious and a force to be reckoned with. She won’t let anyone or anything stand in her way. Mummy-ji gets her man!
I recommend this series for anyone who wants a relaxing, entertaining, developing series in the ilk of Alexander McCall’s No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series but a little bit more intense. The mysteries & murders are more dangerous and complicated. There’s humor, history, custom and family throughout.
In this book, Tarquin Hall examines the caste system of India and how it segregates the people from mingling together in many ways and from trusting each other. A different caste is a different world and doesn’t mix with your own. Tarquin shows that with time & open-mindedness the caste system can be overcome and India made stronger.
Mummy-ji is a hoot! She plays a larger part in this book and her sections were fun and entertaining. That is one woman who can stand on her own. She’s smart, sassy, brave, tenacious and a force to be reckoned with. She won’t let anyone or anything stand in her way. Mummy-ji gets her man!
I recommend this series for anyone who wants a relaxing, entertaining, developing series in the ilk of Alexander McCall’s No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series but a little bit more intense. The mysteries & murders are more dangerous and complicated. There’s humor, history, custom and family throughout.
October 8, 2019
Vish Puri is on a jewel heist case and is scheduled for a much-needed holiday. But at the nick of time, he gets dragged into a love affair case when one of his operatives, Facecream, asks him for help. Turns out she also temps as a love commando operative, helping youngsters from different castes to get together.
The Love Commandos are filling a much-needed space in Indian society, but having watched a couple of documentaries on them, I am not too sure that their work holds much merit. Very often, the young girl in question just jumps from the frying pan into the fire. Nothing will replace education and financial independence for a woman as a basic requirement before she can find freedom in choosing a partner, otherwise, she will merely get exploited in another person's home instead of her own. Of course, Ram in this story is different and appears to respect his girlfriend. Also, they don't end up living with his parents, so that's there.
The Case of the Love Commandos is however, not really about the love commandos, which might have been interesting. Instead, the mystery only starts when Ram disappears from a love commando safehouse. Facecream finds out that a scientific organisation has been taking blood samples from the villagers, and Ram appears to have been involved in it. When Ram's mother is murdered, the stakes go up.
There are many other things also happening. DNA research organisation exploiting villagers, Vish Puri's rival and his client. Caste politics and politicians who ultimately figure in the drama. Then there are asides like Facecream getting involved in village life and helping out the dalits. As if this were not enough, Rumpi and Mummy decide to get involved in a completely separate mystery on their holiday.
At some point, it all gets too much and I lost interest. I enjoyed the Mummy bits but there was just too much going on and the plot was mediocre. This was by no means a lighthearted look at a Delhi detective. Instead, Hall decides he wants to cram in social issues, twenty different mysteries, superficial characters, UP politics, and anything else he came across on his research. This is a very good example of not knowing how to use your research selectively.
I loved the first two books, thought the third one was mediocre for the same reasons. This one was even worse. I probably won't be picking up a Vish Puri book again.
The Love Commandos are filling a much-needed space in Indian society, but having watched a couple of documentaries on them, I am not too sure that their work holds much merit. Very often, the young girl in question just jumps from the frying pan into the fire. Nothing will replace education and financial independence for a woman as a basic requirement before she can find freedom in choosing a partner, otherwise, she will merely get exploited in another person's home instead of her own. Of course, Ram in this story is different and appears to respect his girlfriend. Also, they don't end up living with his parents, so that's there.
The Case of the Love Commandos is however, not really about the love commandos, which might have been interesting. Instead, the mystery only starts when Ram disappears from a love commando safehouse. Facecream finds out that a scientific organisation has been taking blood samples from the villagers, and Ram appears to have been involved in it. When Ram's mother is murdered, the stakes go up.
There are many other things also happening. DNA research organisation exploiting villagers, Vish Puri's rival and his client. Caste politics and politicians who ultimately figure in the drama. Then there are asides like Facecream getting involved in village life and helping out the dalits. As if this were not enough, Rumpi and Mummy decide to get involved in a completely separate mystery on their holiday.
At some point, it all gets too much and I lost interest. I enjoyed the Mummy bits but there was just too much going on and the plot was mediocre. This was by no means a lighthearted look at a Delhi detective. Instead, Hall decides he wants to cram in social issues, twenty different mysteries, superficial characters, UP politics, and anything else he came across on his research. This is a very good example of not knowing how to use your research selectively.
I loved the first two books, thought the third one was mediocre for the same reasons. This one was even worse. I probably won't be picking up a Vish Puri book again.
February 11, 2017
Tarquin Hall is a British journalist hailing from London. He has written Vish Puri India's "Most Private Investigator” books. Hall has a good understanding of Indian realities. He weaves these in Vish Puri books.
Ram and Tulsi are in love. Ram is a Dalit (lower caste shudra, untouchable) and Tulsi is Brahmin. Naturally her father is against the alliance and tries to prevent them from getting married. There is a secret organisation called “THE LOVE COMMANDOS” who tries to unite these star crossed lovers and guards them against honour killings. But on the fateful day Ram is kidnapped and Tulsi is taken in hiding by commandos. Vish’s assistant Facecream, who is a part of Love commandos, gives the investigation to Vish. When he starts investigating it is known that Ram’s mother is also murdered. The conspiracy goes much beyond a simple love story. There is an institute which carries out research in genetics and DNA, a corrupt CM and politicians. And it has Vish competitor Hari also.
Tarquin Hall understands India very well. Look the way he describes caste:
“We are a research institute, Mr. Puri. But I would say this: India will never progress, never join the rest of the civilized world, until we are rid of the caste system once and for all. It is utterly divisive, breeds corruption in our political system and ensures that tens of millions of Indians remain mired in poverty and ignorance—a great albatross around our collective necks. So, yes, it is my sincerest hope that our research will change the way society regards itself.”
The journalists in India are not trustworthy and are corrupt
“You should never believe what you read in the papers, Hari—journalists being corrupt and complacent and all.”
India is a vast, poor and populous country. It is very difficult the police and Uttar Pradesh is a very big state. Police in India is highly corrupt and in collusion with political masters.
"Puri knew he was wasting his breath with such a fundamental question. On average, fourteen people died and fifty-seven others were injured on the roads of India every hour. Even if the police had wanted to investigate each incident, there wasn’t the manpower to do so. Uttar Pradesh alone was short of nearly a quarter of a million civil and armed police. And its serving officers were essentially uniformed bribe takers. Most raked in several lakhs per month from truck drivers alone, a goodly percentage of which ended up in the pockets of their superiors and political masters."
Driving in India is a nightmarish experience.
“Normal driving meant driving like everyone else—in other words, winding through traffic without signaling, straddling two lanes at once, flashing “dippers” at any car that dared to get in the way, honking incessantly, jumping queues at red lights and wherever possible blocking everyone behind trying to go straight ahead.”
Finally a little preaching.
“Tradition and customs have their place and provide us with key reference points and a certain continuity. However, rigidity in thinking is the enemy of progress. Likewise, babies should not be thrown out with the bathwater. It is for young people also to act responsibly during times of change. A successful marriage is built on mutual understanding and compatibility. Love should also be there.”
Tarquin Hall is very witty and humorous. He keeps the tone light despite dealing serious issues like caste, poverty, corruption and murder. He makes you feel for the poor dalits. The village society is deeply divided on caste and religious lines. Even the ramshackle school has divisions. Everyone is busy looting the system be it the lowly village Pradhan or Chief Minister. There is huge oppression. The newly powerful castes like Yadavs also become oppressors of Dalits. In fact they are worse then Brahmins.
The concept of DNA mapping of castes is a novel one. If what is said is true we can definitively know the origin of castes and degree of intermingling amongst various castes. Indian caste system is based on very rigid segregation of castes and little or no intermarriage. This has its pros and cons.
This is most unjust social system. It divides the society and makes it weak. The shudras at the bottom, are worst sufferers and bear the burnt of this. They have no opportunity to break free from this vicious circle of oppression, poverty, ignorance and despair.
If lovers are from different castes it is not accepted and it sometimes lead to honour killings also especially in rural parts of North India. There are self styled Khap Panchaytas who are like Kangaroo courts and sanction these killings with impunity. They are answerable to no law or courts and derive their authority from caste order.
The worst part is caste is sanctified as a part of Hindu religion. It is mentioned in all religious scriptures including the Geeta.
Lord Krishna speaks to Arjuna as he clarifies the origin and purpose of the caste system in sanaatana dharma (Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 4, Shloka 13).
cāturvarṇyaṃ mayā sṛṣṭaṃ guṇakarmavibhāgaśaḥ .
tasya kartāramapi māṃ viddhyakartāramavyayam .. 4\-13..
I have created this four fold order ( 4 varnas / castes namely - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras) according to the quality of work.
They constitute the four-fold order. The three gunas - sattva, rajas and tamas - and the law of karma - these four elements were divided by Me to create the four varnas.
Sattva guna predominates in Brahmins - and they are assigned the tasks (karma) of sham, dam, tapas (meditation) etc.
Rajas guna predominates in Kshatriyas - sattva guna is secondary. Their karma is to be warriors and show bravery and tejas.
Rajas guna also predominates in Vaishyas - tamas guna is secondary. Their karma is to be farmers and traders.
Tamas guna predominates in Shudras - rajas guna is secondary. Their karma is to serve others.
If something is sanctified by religion and an AVATAR of Vishnu (Incarnation of God Vishnu) it is very difficult to argue with. A person fate is sealed at birth and he is doomed to live up to his pre ordained destiny.
Puri’s associates have funny names like Handbrake, Facecream and Tubelight. The tone is kept light but he never loses sight of the bigger picture.
Vish’s mummyji and wife, Rumpi provide comic relief. Mummyji is a parallel investigative firm. But I find that distracting and it breaks the flow of the story.
At some point I have to stop reading and laugh for a minute or two. Like the scene where Tulsi is crying again and again.
“If she keeps crying like this she would have to be taken to a hospital and rehydrated”.
In the end a very good book. 9/10 stars.
Ram and Tulsi are in love. Ram is a Dalit (lower caste shudra, untouchable) and Tulsi is Brahmin. Naturally her father is against the alliance and tries to prevent them from getting married. There is a secret organisation called “THE LOVE COMMANDOS” who tries to unite these star crossed lovers and guards them against honour killings. But on the fateful day Ram is kidnapped and Tulsi is taken in hiding by commandos. Vish’s assistant Facecream, who is a part of Love commandos, gives the investigation to Vish. When he starts investigating it is known that Ram’s mother is also murdered. The conspiracy goes much beyond a simple love story. There is an institute which carries out research in genetics and DNA, a corrupt CM and politicians. And it has Vish competitor Hari also.
Tarquin Hall understands India very well. Look the way he describes caste:
“We are a research institute, Mr. Puri. But I would say this: India will never progress, never join the rest of the civilized world, until we are rid of the caste system once and for all. It is utterly divisive, breeds corruption in our political system and ensures that tens of millions of Indians remain mired in poverty and ignorance—a great albatross around our collective necks. So, yes, it is my sincerest hope that our research will change the way society regards itself.”
The journalists in India are not trustworthy and are corrupt
“You should never believe what you read in the papers, Hari—journalists being corrupt and complacent and all.”
India is a vast, poor and populous country. It is very difficult the police and Uttar Pradesh is a very big state. Police in India is highly corrupt and in collusion with political masters.
"Puri knew he was wasting his breath with such a fundamental question. On average, fourteen people died and fifty-seven others were injured on the roads of India every hour. Even if the police had wanted to investigate each incident, there wasn’t the manpower to do so. Uttar Pradesh alone was short of nearly a quarter of a million civil and armed police. And its serving officers were essentially uniformed bribe takers. Most raked in several lakhs per month from truck drivers alone, a goodly percentage of which ended up in the pockets of their superiors and political masters."
Driving in India is a nightmarish experience.
“Normal driving meant driving like everyone else—in other words, winding through traffic without signaling, straddling two lanes at once, flashing “dippers” at any car that dared to get in the way, honking incessantly, jumping queues at red lights and wherever possible blocking everyone behind trying to go straight ahead.”
Finally a little preaching.
“Tradition and customs have their place and provide us with key reference points and a certain continuity. However, rigidity in thinking is the enemy of progress. Likewise, babies should not be thrown out with the bathwater. It is for young people also to act responsibly during times of change. A successful marriage is built on mutual understanding and compatibility. Love should also be there.”
Tarquin Hall is very witty and humorous. He keeps the tone light despite dealing serious issues like caste, poverty, corruption and murder. He makes you feel for the poor dalits. The village society is deeply divided on caste and religious lines. Even the ramshackle school has divisions. Everyone is busy looting the system be it the lowly village Pradhan or Chief Minister. There is huge oppression. The newly powerful castes like Yadavs also become oppressors of Dalits. In fact they are worse then Brahmins.
The concept of DNA mapping of castes is a novel one. If what is said is true we can definitively know the origin of castes and degree of intermingling amongst various castes. Indian caste system is based on very rigid segregation of castes and little or no intermarriage. This has its pros and cons.
This is most unjust social system. It divides the society and makes it weak. The shudras at the bottom, are worst sufferers and bear the burnt of this. They have no opportunity to break free from this vicious circle of oppression, poverty, ignorance and despair.
If lovers are from different castes it is not accepted and it sometimes lead to honour killings also especially in rural parts of North India. There are self styled Khap Panchaytas who are like Kangaroo courts and sanction these killings with impunity. They are answerable to no law or courts and derive their authority from caste order.
The worst part is caste is sanctified as a part of Hindu religion. It is mentioned in all religious scriptures including the Geeta.
Lord Krishna speaks to Arjuna as he clarifies the origin and purpose of the caste system in sanaatana dharma (Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 4, Shloka 13).
cāturvarṇyaṃ mayā sṛṣṭaṃ guṇakarmavibhāgaśaḥ .
tasya kartāramapi māṃ viddhyakartāramavyayam .. 4\-13..
I have created this four fold order ( 4 varnas / castes namely - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras) according to the quality of work.
They constitute the four-fold order. The three gunas - sattva, rajas and tamas - and the law of karma - these four elements were divided by Me to create the four varnas.
Sattva guna predominates in Brahmins - and they are assigned the tasks (karma) of sham, dam, tapas (meditation) etc.
Rajas guna predominates in Kshatriyas - sattva guna is secondary. Their karma is to be warriors and show bravery and tejas.
Rajas guna also predominates in Vaishyas - tamas guna is secondary. Their karma is to be farmers and traders.
Tamas guna predominates in Shudras - rajas guna is secondary. Their karma is to serve others.
If something is sanctified by religion and an AVATAR of Vishnu (Incarnation of God Vishnu) it is very difficult to argue with. A person fate is sealed at birth and he is doomed to live up to his pre ordained destiny.
Puri’s associates have funny names like Handbrake, Facecream and Tubelight. The tone is kept light but he never loses sight of the bigger picture.
Vish’s mummyji and wife, Rumpi provide comic relief. Mummyji is a parallel investigative firm. But I find that distracting and it breaks the flow of the story.
At some point I have to stop reading and laugh for a minute or two. Like the scene where Tulsi is crying again and again.
“If she keeps crying like this she would have to be taken to a hospital and rehydrated”.
In the end a very good book. 9/10 stars.
May 19, 2022
I love this series, most for the insight into Indian culture, and some for Mr. Vish Puri and his Most Private Investigators Inc. This book had a story line that included one of his operatives, which was interesting to see her point of view. Mummy-ji also has a little mystery solving line of her own, which is always fun. Again with a most helpful glossary of Indian words and a few recipes too!
March 10, 2025
The Case of the Love Commandos is the fourth book in the Vish Puri, Most Private Investigator series by British journalist and author, Tarquin Hall. Troubled by a robbery case that isn’t presenting a solution, Vish Puri is reluctant to head off on a planned pilgrimage with the family in Jammu. His reprieve is a call from one of his operatives, Facecream, who moonlights as Love Commando, Laxmi. She urgently needs Puri’s help.
Making his apologies to family on the Jammu train before he heads off to Lucknow, Puri’s pocket is expertly picked, his wallet missing. From his own train carriage, he calls to enlist Rumpi to track down the thief but, against his express orders, she involves Mummy-ji who undertakes the task with alacrity. But even though the wallet is recovered, Mummy-ji is suspicious of what else the culprit might be up to: is he planning to get rid of his loudly-critical, obese wife? To rob the shrine? Definitely something…
The Love Commandos exist to help couples from different caste overcome obstacles to their marriage and, this time, the prospective bride, Tulsi Mishra has been plucked from her disapproving Brahmin father’s grasp only for her Dalit groom to be missing from the safe house. Has her father made good on his threat to kill Ram Sunder? Puri is a firm believer in the virtues of arranged marriage, so the Love Commandos’ raison d’etre goes against his grain, but an innocent young man’s life is at stake, and that takes priority.
Puri rushes to Ram’s village, where all is not as expected: a drunken father in a brick home he couldn’t possibly afford, Ram’s mother missing, and evidence of violence from outsiders. When the local police arrest Vishnu Mishra for the murder of Kamlesh Sunder, despite his cast-iron alibi, Puri knows something underhand is going on. Facecream sets up as a relief teacher in the village to find out what really happened to Ram’s mother, but soon finds herself fighting village-level corruption.
Something the villagers tell Facecream lead to Puri checking out a genome research lab, where he learns of the death of one of their scientists: he’s not convinced it’s accidental. And, to his chagrin, he hears that his rival PI, Hari Kumar is also on the case. On the road back to Delhi, a car following worries Puri enough for him to cock his pistol, and back in town, he learns his office has been bugged.
While he is not a superstitious person, his stubborn theft case, the pickpocketing and Hari Kumar’s involvement have Puri wondering if his usual boastful attitude about his successes has attracted the evil eye. He makes an offering to Shiva, and vows to do less bragging. Will he manage to solve this most challenging case?
As always, Hall provides a handy glossary, and as a bonus, some delicious-sounding recipes. The dialogue is always a delight, there are twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, and fans will look forward to the next in the series, The Case of the Reincarnated Client. Or they might like to peruse The Delhi Detective’s Handbook. Indian cosy crime at its best.
Making his apologies to family on the Jammu train before he heads off to Lucknow, Puri’s pocket is expertly picked, his wallet missing. From his own train carriage, he calls to enlist Rumpi to track down the thief but, against his express orders, she involves Mummy-ji who undertakes the task with alacrity. But even though the wallet is recovered, Mummy-ji is suspicious of what else the culprit might be up to: is he planning to get rid of his loudly-critical, obese wife? To rob the shrine? Definitely something…
The Love Commandos exist to help couples from different caste overcome obstacles to their marriage and, this time, the prospective bride, Tulsi Mishra has been plucked from her disapproving Brahmin father’s grasp only for her Dalit groom to be missing from the safe house. Has her father made good on his threat to kill Ram Sunder? Puri is a firm believer in the virtues of arranged marriage, so the Love Commandos’ raison d’etre goes against his grain, but an innocent young man’s life is at stake, and that takes priority.
Puri rushes to Ram’s village, where all is not as expected: a drunken father in a brick home he couldn’t possibly afford, Ram’s mother missing, and evidence of violence from outsiders. When the local police arrest Vishnu Mishra for the murder of Kamlesh Sunder, despite his cast-iron alibi, Puri knows something underhand is going on. Facecream sets up as a relief teacher in the village to find out what really happened to Ram’s mother, but soon finds herself fighting village-level corruption.
Something the villagers tell Facecream lead to Puri checking out a genome research lab, where he learns of the death of one of their scientists: he’s not convinced it’s accidental. And, to his chagrin, he hears that his rival PI, Hari Kumar is also on the case. On the road back to Delhi, a car following worries Puri enough for him to cock his pistol, and back in town, he learns his office has been bugged.
While he is not a superstitious person, his stubborn theft case, the pickpocketing and Hari Kumar’s involvement have Puri wondering if his usual boastful attitude about his successes has attracted the evil eye. He makes an offering to Shiva, and vows to do less bragging. Will he manage to solve this most challenging case?
As always, Hall provides a handy glossary, and as a bonus, some delicious-sounding recipes. The dialogue is always a delight, there are twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, and fans will look forward to the next in the series, The Case of the Reincarnated Client. Or they might like to peruse The Delhi Detective’s Handbook. Indian cosy crime at its best.
October 24, 2013
Tarquin Hall’s fourth novel in the Vish Puri detective series proves just as remarkable as the previous entries. Hall, a British journalist who lives in India and is married to an Indian, captures the sights and smells of India while providing an excellent and amusing mystery. Vish Puri fans will be delighted; those new to the series won’t be at a loss and will enjoy The Case of the Love Commandos as much as seasoned readers.
When high-born Tulsi Mishra falls in love with low-born Ram — a Dalit, or “untouchable” — her father, Vishnu Mishra is, unsurprisingly, staunchly opposed. However, the star-crossed lovers plan an elopement with the help of the Love Commandos, a real-life team of Indians who try to ease the way for marriages between Hindus of different classes. On the day of the elopement, Ram turns up missing and soon thereafter Ram’s mother turns up dead. Vishnu Mishra is the obvious suspect for both.
One of Vish Puri’s operatives, nicknamed Face Cream, convinces her boss to investigate the disappearance as a pro bono case. Vish Puri soon discovers that any number of people existed who wanted Ram out of the way. As Puri untangles leads dealing with Ram’s home village, a shadowy medical laboratory and his slick detective rival, Hari Kumar, readers will thoroughly enjoy Puri’s attention to detail, his uncanny abilities and his comical sense of self-satisfaction.
Meanwhile, Vish Puri’s eagle-eyed mother, Mummy-ji — despite the discouragement of her son and daughter-in-law — tackles an investigation of two unsavory characters she meets on the train en route to a pilgrimage. Does Mummy-ji get her man? Let’s just say that Vish Puri inherited a lot of his cleverness from her!
As with his previous novels, Hall seamlessly weaves in facts about India into The Case of the Love Commandos. The lessons about the abysmal lives of Dalits, despite modernization, and of the rampant corruption at every level of society in no way interfere with the flow of the excellent novel. Don’t miss it!
When high-born Tulsi Mishra falls in love with low-born Ram — a Dalit, or “untouchable” — her father, Vishnu Mishra is, unsurprisingly, staunchly opposed. However, the star-crossed lovers plan an elopement with the help of the Love Commandos, a real-life team of Indians who try to ease the way for marriages between Hindus of different classes. On the day of the elopement, Ram turns up missing and soon thereafter Ram’s mother turns up dead. Vishnu Mishra is the obvious suspect for both.
One of Vish Puri’s operatives, nicknamed Face Cream, convinces her boss to investigate the disappearance as a pro bono case. Vish Puri soon discovers that any number of people existed who wanted Ram out of the way. As Puri untangles leads dealing with Ram’s home village, a shadowy medical laboratory and his slick detective rival, Hari Kumar, readers will thoroughly enjoy Puri’s attention to detail, his uncanny abilities and his comical sense of self-satisfaction.
Meanwhile, Vish Puri’s eagle-eyed mother, Mummy-ji — despite the discouragement of her son and daughter-in-law — tackles an investigation of two unsavory characters she meets on the train en route to a pilgrimage. Does Mummy-ji get her man? Let’s just say that Vish Puri inherited a lot of his cleverness from her!
As with his previous novels, Hall seamlessly weaves in facts about India into The Case of the Love Commandos. The lessons about the abysmal lives of Dalits, despite modernization, and of the rampant corruption at every level of society in no way interfere with the flow of the excellent novel. Don’t miss it!
March 20, 2018
Immensely enjoyable.. Fast paced. Loved Vish Puri his associates and his family especially Mummyji and Rumpy...
March 7, 2017
Umm.....The book makes for a light reading. If you are an Indian reading this book, chances are you will be supremely impressed by Mr. Hall's knowledge (or research) on Indian towns and how things work here. I may add here that he is a British journalist living now in India with his wife. That said, I found the book enjoyable to a great extent but also found some bits and parts quite irritating. The most enjoyable things first. The caste of characters and their names. Consider these- Facecream, Flush and Tubelight. The plot is thick and quite absorbing. You do want to find out what is going on with the characters and do want to get to the bottom of things. The plot takes you from Khan Market in New Delhi to a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi to the villages of UP. The author is very particular about the details of the gulleys and the lanes that he mentions in the story and I felt as if he might have visited each one of them standing there thinking about how to further the plot.
The sub-plot which takes place in Jammu, of which Puri's mother Mummy ji takes charge of, is what I found annoying. There too, no complaints from how the things unravel but the jargon, after a certain point, began to get on my nerves. The passive sentences that she uses and the Hindi of those translated into English language- reading that taxed my eyes and my brain at the same time.
In all the detective and his team are a lovable lot and an attention to detail is what makes it a winner for me.
October 13, 2016
Tarquin Hall finds clever ways of using elements of India’s culture to tell stories of intrigue in his Vish Puri novels. In this instance, he comments on the caste system by introducing us to the Love Commandos through the romance of Ram (a Dalit, or “Untouchable”) and Tulsi (a Thakur, or higher caste). In Utter Pradesh, when Ram is abducted from the Love Commandos safe house, Detective Vish Puri---and his operatives, Flush, Facecream, and Tubelight (I love these nicknames!)---are called in to find him. (In real life the Love Commandos are a group of volunteers who formed around 2010, in order to support and advocate for couples who fall in love and want to marry outside the tradition of inter-caste arranged marriages).
This book was entertaining, and many parts were guffaw-inducing, but after a while I got dizzy because there was too much going on. For instance, Hari Kumar---Vish Puri’s chief competitor---has been called in on the same case by a different client; while Vish Puri’s mother, Mummy-ji---another talented sleuth---is busy solving an unrelated mystery in another province while supposedly on a pilgrimage with the rest of the family. Add some corrupt political activity, a gluttonous journalist, a biological institute profiting from dubiously-obtained DNA, various gangs of bullies, some wire-taps, a matchmaking agency, a helicopter heist, and a murdered doctor, and you’ve got quite a mess! It got so convoluted that I lost patience trying to solve the mysteries, myself, and my eyes just glazed-over during the many pages required to wrap things up.
I get the impression that India is Tarquin Hall’s Muse and he can’t seem to exercise any restraint when it comes to boisterously stacking and arranging juicy culturally-specific situations on top of each other and daring them to fall! And as if that weren’t enough, the last 20 pages of the book include a 14-page glossary (yes, you WILL be flipping back and forth so I don’t recommend reading this on eReaders), and 6 pages of “Mouthwatering Dishes from the Vish Puri Family Kitchen”---despite what seemed like a lot of eating from street vendors, restaurants, and private clubs in this particular story. But maybe it’s the author’s lack of restraint that makes his books so much fun to read. Once I read The Case of the Deadly Butter Chicken I should be all caught up on Vish Puri’s cases. By the way, Vish Puri has his own website if you want to see what he looks like wearing his favorite safari style suits. 3 and one half stars, yaar.
This book was entertaining, and many parts were guffaw-inducing, but after a while I got dizzy because there was too much going on. For instance, Hari Kumar---Vish Puri’s chief competitor---has been called in on the same case by a different client; while Vish Puri’s mother, Mummy-ji---another talented sleuth---is busy solving an unrelated mystery in another province while supposedly on a pilgrimage with the rest of the family. Add some corrupt political activity, a gluttonous journalist, a biological institute profiting from dubiously-obtained DNA, various gangs of bullies, some wire-taps, a matchmaking agency, a helicopter heist, and a murdered doctor, and you’ve got quite a mess! It got so convoluted that I lost patience trying to solve the mysteries, myself, and my eyes just glazed-over during the many pages required to wrap things up.
I get the impression that India is Tarquin Hall’s Muse and he can’t seem to exercise any restraint when it comes to boisterously stacking and arranging juicy culturally-specific situations on top of each other and daring them to fall! And as if that weren’t enough, the last 20 pages of the book include a 14-page glossary (yes, you WILL be flipping back and forth so I don’t recommend reading this on eReaders), and 6 pages of “Mouthwatering Dishes from the Vish Puri Family Kitchen”---despite what seemed like a lot of eating from street vendors, restaurants, and private clubs in this particular story. But maybe it’s the author’s lack of restraint that makes his books so much fun to read. Once I read The Case of the Deadly Butter Chicken I should be all caught up on Vish Puri’s cases. By the way, Vish Puri has his own website if you want to see what he looks like wearing his favorite safari style suits. 3 and one half stars, yaar.
August 27, 2020
The sight of a cosy mystery with recipes in the back always gives me pause, since they are often tacked on to flesh out a thin plot and make the reader forgive. Much as I love to prepare and eat Indian food, I feared this book would disappoint as badly as vols 2 and 3; however, I was spared that.
In many ways this title is a vast improvement:
--Vish Puri is less a caricature of himself, acting more like a person and less like a comic Indian cutout.
--Mummy and Rumpi collaborate on their thread, showing just where Sonny Boy gets his acumen without making me want to throw the book across the room.
--The author resists the temptation to thump the lectern loud enough to make you jump in the social-activism thread.
However, the Love Commando story does get lost in the rest of it, and the telling dragged a bit about 2/3 through. This time round there are many unexplained non-English words, where previously the author managed to tell us what the words meant without having to say "see Glossary" or act like of course everybody just naturally knows what this or that means. Therefore 4 stars instead of 5.
In many ways this title is a vast improvement:
--Vish Puri is less a caricature of himself, acting more like a person and less like a comic Indian cutout.
--Mummy and Rumpi collaborate on their thread, showing just where Sonny Boy gets his acumen without making me want to throw the book across the room.
--The author resists the temptation to thump the lectern loud enough to make you jump in the social-activism thread.
However, the Love Commando story does get lost in the rest of it, and the telling dragged a bit about 2/3 through. This time round there are many unexplained non-English words, where previously the author managed to tell us what the words meant without having to say "see Glossary" or act like of course everybody just naturally knows what this or that means. Therefore 4 stars instead of 5.
May 20, 2021
If Goodreads let us give half stars, i would have given this 3.5 stars.
This was the only book left for me to read in the Vish Puri series and it didn't disappoint. In this book, Puri has to solve a case for which he has to go to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and deal with politics, politicians and lota if social prejudices. On the other hand, we have Mummyji and Rumpi on another trail altogether in Jammu. Tbh, the mummyji mystery was much more fun.
This is because the main mystery is steeped in a socio-political nexus that is far from funny and has victimized many people. I absolutely love how Hall can describe the quirks of us Indians in such a funny manner. An astute observer, his books are always a delight.
This was the only book left for me to read in the Vish Puri series and it didn't disappoint. In this book, Puri has to solve a case for which he has to go to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and deal with politics, politicians and lota if social prejudices. On the other hand, we have Mummyji and Rumpi on another trail altogether in Jammu. Tbh, the mummyji mystery was much more fun.
This is because the main mystery is steeped in a socio-political nexus that is far from funny and has victimized many people. I absolutely love how Hall can describe the quirks of us Indians in such a funny manner. An astute observer, his books are always a delight.
January 27, 2021
As usual an interesting murder mystery with bigger picture than we imaging.
April 24, 2023
this is my grandma & my book series 💕
October 28, 2014
Novel set in India (The Indian Poirot)
For fans of the detective novel, this is sheer delight from start to finish. It’s the kind of book you should keep for a duvet day. Just curl up on with some chocolates, or more appropriately a few pakoras, and get stuck in. What’s even more delectable is that there are three more books in the series to dip into.
Vish Puri, Hall’s detective, is an Indian version of Christie’s Poirot and every bit as quirky. Like Poirot, he considers himself an exemplar of sartorial elegance and also like Poirot he is more than a little interested in what he consumes. However, Hall doesn’t take his creation completely seriously and can’t resist a bit of gentle humour at his expense – Puri isn’t a connoisseur of fine foods; rather he finds it simply impossible to concentrate on detection when faced with a street vendor. He is greedy and pompous beyond belief, but ultimately very loveable.
The Case of the Love Commandos is an intriguing story. Set in modern day India, this case takes Puri on the trail of a missing student, who has been snatched from the protection of The Love Commandos, a real life Indian organisation dedicated to helping young people from different castes marry. The trail leads him to Uttar Pradesh and a complicated mesh of corruption and cover ups, but first he has to cope with the theft of his own wallet, something that causes him immense chagrin, since he prides himself on his 24/7 hyper vigilance.
Even more delightful than the character of Vish Puri himself, however, is his delightfully infuriating Mummyji, she who has virtually supersonic hearing on account of her hearing aids and who insists on interfering in every case, often solving problems before her harassed son has time to snatch a snack and weigh up the clues. I loved the scene early on in the novel when Mummyji, in pursuit of the wallet thief, fearlessly patrols the train snapping potential perpetrators on her mobile and showing masterful comprehension of modern day technology.
Hall evokes present day India very truthfully, conveying very succinctly the way in which the modern and the ancient collide. When the whole Puri family are making the family pilgrimage to the top of Trikuta mountain to visit the Vaishno Devi Shrine, Mummyji is delighted to note that the pilgrimage remains such a family affair. However, she is less delighted with her rather lumpish grandson, Chetan, who finds the climb difficult. “No surprise, na?” Mummyji scolds. “What with all your sitting all day playing Nintendo and all.” Nor does Hall shy away from depiction of some of the corruption that clearly still prevails. His description of Facecream’s visit to the Govind village school sticks in the mind; the teacher has been gone a month but the children still attend despite the lack of instruction, simply because at school they’re entitled to a pitiful lunchtime meal, pitiful because half the ingredients have already been purloined by the village headsman. It’s a very skilful writer who can take you from laughter to pain and back again in the space of a few pages.
The novel teams with the life, the colour, the chaos, the smells and sounds and tastes of modern day India and what’s more, very obligingly, Hall provides the reader with the recipes for some of these intriguing street food delicacies at the end of the book – what more could the discerning and greedy reader ask for?
For fans of the detective novel, this is sheer delight from start to finish. It’s the kind of book you should keep for a duvet day. Just curl up on with some chocolates, or more appropriately a few pakoras, and get stuck in. What’s even more delectable is that there are three more books in the series to dip into.
Vish Puri, Hall’s detective, is an Indian version of Christie’s Poirot and every bit as quirky. Like Poirot, he considers himself an exemplar of sartorial elegance and also like Poirot he is more than a little interested in what he consumes. However, Hall doesn’t take his creation completely seriously and can’t resist a bit of gentle humour at his expense – Puri isn’t a connoisseur of fine foods; rather he finds it simply impossible to concentrate on detection when faced with a street vendor. He is greedy and pompous beyond belief, but ultimately very loveable.
The Case of the Love Commandos is an intriguing story. Set in modern day India, this case takes Puri on the trail of a missing student, who has been snatched from the protection of The Love Commandos, a real life Indian organisation dedicated to helping young people from different castes marry. The trail leads him to Uttar Pradesh and a complicated mesh of corruption and cover ups, but first he has to cope with the theft of his own wallet, something that causes him immense chagrin, since he prides himself on his 24/7 hyper vigilance.
Even more delightful than the character of Vish Puri himself, however, is his delightfully infuriating Mummyji, she who has virtually supersonic hearing on account of her hearing aids and who insists on interfering in every case, often solving problems before her harassed son has time to snatch a snack and weigh up the clues. I loved the scene early on in the novel when Mummyji, in pursuit of the wallet thief, fearlessly patrols the train snapping potential perpetrators on her mobile and showing masterful comprehension of modern day technology.
Hall evokes present day India very truthfully, conveying very succinctly the way in which the modern and the ancient collide. When the whole Puri family are making the family pilgrimage to the top of Trikuta mountain to visit the Vaishno Devi Shrine, Mummyji is delighted to note that the pilgrimage remains such a family affair. However, she is less delighted with her rather lumpish grandson, Chetan, who finds the climb difficult. “No surprise, na?” Mummyji scolds. “What with all your sitting all day playing Nintendo and all.” Nor does Hall shy away from depiction of some of the corruption that clearly still prevails. His description of Facecream’s visit to the Govind village school sticks in the mind; the teacher has been gone a month but the children still attend despite the lack of instruction, simply because at school they’re entitled to a pitiful lunchtime meal, pitiful because half the ingredients have already been purloined by the village headsman. It’s a very skilful writer who can take you from laughter to pain and back again in the space of a few pages.
The novel teams with the life, the colour, the chaos, the smells and sounds and tastes of modern day India and what’s more, very obligingly, Hall provides the reader with the recipes for some of these intriguing street food delicacies at the end of the book – what more could the discerning and greedy reader ask for?
August 8, 2013
This fourth book in the splendid series by Tarquin Hall feels a bit disjointed compared to the other three, but it hardly seems worth mentioning. The main reason for the story being "out of joint" is the fact that readers get to learn more about Vish Puri's assistants. Instead of being secretive creatures referred to as "Facecream" and "Tubelight," we get to see some of the things they do when they're not investigating a case for Puri. While we learn about them, we learn about the very real prejudices concerning mixed-caste marriages in India.
Once again, Puri's mother gets to do a bit of her own investigating while on pilgrimage with the rest of her family. This is Mummy-ji's chance to shine and provide readers with the gentle humor and insight into modern life in India that all devotees of this series look forward to.
The mystery is-- as always-- a strong element in the book, but this book-- and the entire series-- is much more than the sum of its parts. The cast of vivid characters, the humor, the intriguing mysteries, the mouthwatering food, the exotic sights, sounds, and smells, the pitch perfect observations of life in modern day India, the dialogue that gives the flavor of Indian speech without a wisp of incoherency... all these parts blend together into such a savory curry that Tarquin Hall's books are downright addictive. The Case of the Love Commandos is another strong entry in a series that I recommend very highly.
Once again, Puri's mother gets to do a bit of her own investigating while on pilgrimage with the rest of her family. This is Mummy-ji's chance to shine and provide readers with the gentle humor and insight into modern life in India that all devotees of this series look forward to.
The mystery is-- as always-- a strong element in the book, but this book-- and the entire series-- is much more than the sum of its parts. The cast of vivid characters, the humor, the intriguing mysteries, the mouthwatering food, the exotic sights, sounds, and smells, the pitch perfect observations of life in modern day India, the dialogue that gives the flavor of Indian speech without a wisp of incoherency... all these parts blend together into such a savory curry that Tarquin Hall's books are downright addictive. The Case of the Love Commandos is another strong entry in a series that I recommend very highly.
February 6, 2016
I don't read mysteries, but I make an exception for these Vish Puri (Most Private Investigator) stories because by far he is one of the funniest characters I've come across in literature. You can read this as a stand alone book, but if you've read the three previous stories in the series, you'd get more insight into the main characters. Once again we are treated to Vish trying to solve a very high profile case. This time it involves the kidnapping of a young man from a low caste trying to marry the daughter of a well-known and sinister business tycoon, but is it really about the intercaste marriage or is the kidnapping about something else? Vish will get to the bottom of it once he finishes his samosas and mango lassi.
Vish's usual assistants (Facecream, Tubelight, Handbrake, Mrs. Rani) are back along with his meddling mother who also fancies herself a private investigator. The plot got a tad confusing in the middle, but by the end, I figured out what happened and who did what. Great story if you love India or south Asian culture. I have family roots in that part of the world, so the Indian English isn't confusing to me. However, you can still follow the gist of the story without knowing the local idiosyncrasies. The author ( a Brit) has some great recipes at the back of the book, so that's another reason to read this book.
Vish's usual assistants (Facecream, Tubelight, Handbrake, Mrs. Rani) are back along with his meddling mother who also fancies herself a private investigator. The plot got a tad confusing in the middle, but by the end, I figured out what happened and who did what. Great story if you love India or south Asian culture. I have family roots in that part of the world, so the Indian English isn't confusing to me. However, you can still follow the gist of the story without knowing the local idiosyncrasies. The author ( a Brit) has some great recipes at the back of the book, so that's another reason to read this book.
February 11, 2022
I picked this book up knowing absolutely nothing about it. I don't know author, or the author's previous works. Didn't know this was part of a series and did not know much about the plot besides what I read on the blurb. The title and the premise drew a chuckle out of me and so I added it to my to-read shelf for the year.
This book was fast paced, had funny moments and commentary on various socio political aspects in northern India. In the midst of it there are corrupt politicians, a murder, and DNA research. There was simply too much going on and the jumble of it all got to be too much for me to actually enjoy the book as much as I'd have liked to. It fell just short of being funny enough for it to be a laugh riot, and short of being a page turner for it to satisfy the whodunnit itch. With the political commentary thrown in, this book was jumping between genres so hard it didn't really land anywhere for me. There could be an interesting book somewhere here if it was maybe pared down a tad.
I probably will not continue with the series. For a stand alone read, this book was fine but had the potential to be better.
This book was fast paced, had funny moments and commentary on various socio political aspects in northern India. In the midst of it there are corrupt politicians, a murder, and DNA research. There was simply too much going on and the jumble of it all got to be too much for me to actually enjoy the book as much as I'd have liked to. It fell just short of being funny enough for it to be a laugh riot, and short of being a page turner for it to satisfy the whodunnit itch. With the political commentary thrown in, this book was jumping between genres so hard it didn't really land anywhere for me. There could be an interesting book somewhere here if it was maybe pared down a tad.
I probably will not continue with the series. For a stand alone read, this book was fine but had the potential to be better.
November 2, 2013
Delightful read of a delightful cast of characters! Mummy-ji is priceless as the common-sensical, sharp-tongued matriarch in this latest detective novel featuring Vish Puri. it all starts with what seems like an incidental pickpocket crime to draw sharp attention to a very real situation of caste discrimination, missing person and the Love Commandos - a vigilante group dedicated to helping lovers break the caste barrier. Cultural insight added to clever story-telling and classic private investigator mystery lead to a delightful, humorous and intriguing read.
May 28, 2014
The Vish Puri books are fun and warm and touching. There is always something to learn as well about India. In this book Hall addresses the complex issue of caste, and the love commandos which are a real organization.
"Love Commandos is a voluntary organization in India dedicated to helping India’s lovebirds who want to marry for love. We provide assistance in protecting couples, helping them fight harassment and giving them shelter so they can marry freely."
"Love Commandos is a voluntary organization in India dedicated to helping India’s lovebirds who want to marry for love. We provide assistance in protecting couples, helping them fight harassment and giving them shelter so they can marry freely."
November 16, 2015
Interesting enough but one flaw no one caught - the political clash is being pitched as a Brahmin-Thakur clash but both the protagonists have Brahmin names. Still quite a bit of contemporary Indian politics finds itself one way or the other into the narrative quite plausibly but certain plot lines could have been better served as being separate... And yes, sometimes that Indian English is grating..
January 5, 2015
Vish Puri is back with his humor trying to solve a case for love commandos, an organisation he doesn't believe in :) What a fun read this one.
July 4, 2014
Great book series!!
Fun read, great mystery and Chubby is so entertaining. I like that this series gives you a taste of India too.
Fun read, great mystery and Chubby is so entertaining. I like that this series gives you a taste of India too.
August 10, 2019
Very good, but it was irritating to check glossary in the back for Indian words translations every few pages. This one was much better than the Case of the Buttered Chicken.
January 20, 2018
According to my definitive reference source for all things to do with authors , titles and synopses, FantasticFiction.com this was the fourth of the Vish Puri series and last to date.
I am a little curious about the author who is an English born writer/journalist approaching 50 who now divides his time between the UK and India. Throughout this series he has wound his stories around an Indian landscape wracked with poverty where ordinary people struggle to exist. I have never been but his words paint a depressing picture apparently well researched. That endemic bribery and corruption at all levels feature so often is surely a matter of serious concern when many countries pour aid into the sub continent apparently regardless of the proportion that ends up actually helping those who need it.
Sorry, rant over, back to the Love Commandoes.
Maybe I have got used to Mr Hall's writing for I didnt feel the need for the frequent use of the glossary that had marred previous books (although I did resort to the online dictionary a few times).
This meant that the story flowed better although I was a little confused at times at exactly which of several interested parties were on the side of which other. I have the feeling that this was partly intended.
In this story we come across Vish Puri's rival for the position of India's top Investigator and also his family contender in the race too.
It was a plesant enough read and, after all not only have I now read the full set to date but it is on my list to watch for the next.
In a recent review of a book about the french country policeman Bruno, I suggested that a cookery book of his favourite meals would be most welcome. I was most thankful for the link that was sent to me for one already on line. At the end of this book is a list of recipes of Vish Puri's favourites. Unfortunately, I do not have the taste for Indian food and indeed Puri's appetite for picking and eating raw chillies probably brings me out in as much of a sweat as if I actually ate one too.
Still to each his own.
I am a little curious about the author who is an English born writer/journalist approaching 50 who now divides his time between the UK and India. Throughout this series he has wound his stories around an Indian landscape wracked with poverty where ordinary people struggle to exist. I have never been but his words paint a depressing picture apparently well researched. That endemic bribery and corruption at all levels feature so often is surely a matter of serious concern when many countries pour aid into the sub continent apparently regardless of the proportion that ends up actually helping those who need it.
Sorry, rant over, back to the Love Commandoes.
Maybe I have got used to Mr Hall's writing for I didnt feel the need for the frequent use of the glossary that had marred previous books (although I did resort to the online dictionary a few times).
This meant that the story flowed better although I was a little confused at times at exactly which of several interested parties were on the side of which other. I have the feeling that this was partly intended.
In this story we come across Vish Puri's rival for the position of India's top Investigator and also his family contender in the race too.
It was a plesant enough read and, after all not only have I now read the full set to date but it is on my list to watch for the next.
In a recent review of a book about the french country policeman Bruno, I suggested that a cookery book of his favourite meals would be most welcome. I was most thankful for the link that was sent to me for one already on line. At the end of this book is a list of recipes of Vish Puri's favourites. Unfortunately, I do not have the taste for Indian food and indeed Puri's appetite for picking and eating raw chillies probably brings me out in as much of a sweat as if I actually ate one too.
Still to each his own.
September 2, 2019
Vish Puri #4. Tarquin Hall does a brilliant job intermixing all the different languages (mostly Punjabi) of India into the story. Sometimes, it was distracting. My fault, for having to continually flip back to the glossary in the back of the book. But as the synopsis explains, the story is about the caste system.
One of Puri's operatives has been moonlighting as a Love Commando. The Love Commandos purpose is to help "star crossed lovers" couples reunite, marry and relocate away from their disapproving family.
This time one case has gone horribly wrong and Puri is asked to help. Despite, his misgivings and deep beliefs against the Love Commandos actions, he takes the case. A man has been kidnapped and Puri soon realizes his life is in great danger. There are too many strange vehicles following him, too many people lying and even worse, his Detective Rival is investigating the same case.
This is also a story of the haves and the have nots, and just how ingrained the Caste system is entrenched in India societal structure. In fact, as Puri observes, the have have nothing: no decent food, clothing or shelter, let alone education. India's political corruption is known. But the corruption continues all the way to the bottom. The Government a system where food and jobs are allotted to the very very poor - and even that is absconded by those in charge. It was disturbing to read just how bad it is.
One of Puri's operatives has been moonlighting as a Love Commando. The Love Commandos purpose is to help "star crossed lovers" couples reunite, marry and relocate away from their disapproving family.
This time one case has gone horribly wrong and Puri is asked to help. Despite, his misgivings and deep beliefs against the Love Commandos actions, he takes the case. A man has been kidnapped and Puri soon realizes his life is in great danger. There are too many strange vehicles following him, too many people lying and even worse, his Detective Rival is investigating the same case.
This is also a story of the haves and the have nots, and just how ingrained the Caste system is entrenched in India societal structure. In fact, as Puri observes, the have have nothing: no decent food, clothing or shelter, let alone education. India's political corruption is known. But the corruption continues all the way to the bottom. The Government a system where food and jobs are allotted to the very very poor - and even that is absconded by those in charge. It was disturbing to read just how bad it is.
August 16, 2022
Quite a fascinating book. The mystery was very well-written and not at all what it appeared to be. It was very suspenseful. The author also described the tensions between different castes in India very well and connected the mystery to political corruption. I'm just not a huge fan of the mystery genre so I don't think I will be continuing with this series. I also kind of wanted more descriptions about the mental states of Ram and Tulsi and their yearning for each other, which this book unfortunately didn't have. But it was still a good read.
February 26, 2022
Mr. Hall's books keep getting better! His knowledge and sense of the chaos of India, and Delhi in particular are superb. He seems to revel in the sheer outlandishness of urban India and embraces it all with gentle humor - the poverty-stricken slums, the desperation of folks eking out a living, the rich elite with all their snobbery, the illogical biases and complex identities etc. I was particularly impressed by his sure-handed understanding of Uttar Pradesh politics; these badlands are a hotbed of ethnicities and caste which many Indians stay clear of. Very well done indeed!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews