Vigil-Aunties

by Richa S. Mukherjee

New

Paperback

About the author

After spending years in advertising, selling shampoos and juices to unsuspecting housewives, also chasing after a few criminals and their lawyers as a journalist, Richa finally decided to write a book of soul searing poetry followed by a few funny blogs. Then came her first novel, followed by her second that was published this year. She now lives in Mumbai juggling work, writing, and often, her 5 year old daughter as well.

Reviews

[Sneha Pathak (reader_girl_reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Rounded to 4

[Aarti Arora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vigil Aunties by Richa S. Mukherjee is a delightful dive into the world of the Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society, where secrets, humour, and the strength of women come together in an entertaining narrative. The book's light, contemporary fiction style is engaging and provides a perfect escape into a story filled with quirky characters and unexpected twists.

The story unfolds through two perspectives. The first is that of sixteen-year-old Philadelphia Waghmare, affectionately known as Philly. Her viewpoint, often reminiscent of a diary entry, adds a fun and comic element to the book. The second perspective offers a broader third-person narrative that describes the various happenings within the housing society, providing a well-rounded view of the community and its residents.

Read the full review on:
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[Deepthi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget the brooding detectives; here's a celebration of everyday women taking charge. Vigil Aunties by Richa S. Mukherjee is a cozy mystery with a refreshing twist.
 
Sixteen-year-old Philly Waghmare's life takes another turn when she finds out her sweet and calm mom is the leader of a vigilante group with a group of middle-aged women who, tired of their mundane lives, secretly come together to expose sexual predators. They gather evidence and anonymously tip off the police. The aunties are a delightful bunch, each with their quirks and personalities but loyal to each other. 
 

This group of aunties happens to be the focus of Detective Bharat, the cop investigating the disappearance of Ratan Tamacha.What happens when these aunties are entangled in the mystery of Ratan Tamacha’s disappearance.? Will they get caught? Find out more in the book.
 
Each character is written so beautifully. Philly is a relatable character, and Jamun (JIMIN), with his little crush on her, is adorable to read. The book is filled with dry humor and is so easy to read with its short chapters.

While lighthearted, the book subtly addresses social issues like sexual harassment and societal expectations for women.It's a perfect book for those who enjoy a lighthearted mystery with the relatable premise of a close-knit community.

[Booknerds Cornerrrr · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Reading comes to the rescue but hardly anything else interests me."

Everyone is def obsessed with the title of the book and wondered what all did it contain. 💕

The story in this book revolves around a group of aunties, as we call it in our indian context, who got bored from their monotonous life routine and decided to start a secret society where they would find out and solve cases about sexual predators with the help of police and authorises, by secretly sending them messages/signals or signs. 💬 💻 . They all live in Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society which was tracked as the last location of a goon named Ratan Tamancha, who went missing recently 🤐😱Detective Bharat got into the case and his involvement made it difficult for the secret society to function, which gave rise to the game of cat and mice among both the parties🐱🐭🔎

This was such an interesting and engaging read, felt like I was watching a detective movie🕵🎥
YOU DEF WANT TO KNOW MORE AND FOR THAT YOU'LL HAVE TO READ THE BOOK.

As soon as I read the first chapter, I was totally into the book because the character Philly was so relatable that at a point I thought she's me, I'm her.🤭😛

The book is written by an indian author so it contains a lot of references from our daily life scenes such as names and the nicknames, middle class families, Indian Bollywood movies, Indian food and sweets, kitty parties and Indian cartoon shows, the use of regional language which made the book relatable to a great extent and a personal connection was felt. 💗

There are a lot of characters names which made it a little difficult to keep a track of who is who when there where many dialogues🤐

I loved the fact that it had short chapters and the writing style is def beginners friendly which means ANYONE can read it without difficulties💗

[Shipra Rathi · Rating 4 out of 5]

How often do we always consider women as naive and not capable of being detectives or spies?
I've heard this phrase that men or humans, in general, underestimate women so much that it makes them perfect for being a thief or a spy.
This novel was one such book that talked about humans underestimating women as not capable of anything but only cooking and cleaning. I enjoyed the way the authors made each of the characters portray people we meet around us and with the intricacy every character was written was beautiful and gave a better understanding to me as a reader.
The storyline was thrilling in a very soothing way. I was rooting so badly for Panchkanyas, and I was so scared for them, but the ending was so good and intriguing. The plot was perfect.
Personally, I may want to take inspiration from the panchkanyas in this book to create my group of panchkanyas and spy on bad people and make sure they get punished.
The unity between those 5 women was admirable; even after being so scared, they stood with each other, which is a prime example of how a good friendship should be.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was intriguing in a very calm way but, at the same time, kept me on my toes.
If you like thrillers or are a beginner who wants to explore this genre, you should give this book a try.
Definitely recommended.

[Artistic Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Vigil Aunties" is a thriller mystery fiction novel authored by Richa S. Mukherjee. The novel follows the life of sixteen-year-old Philly Waghmare and her group of middle-aged women staying in Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society. Led by Philly's mother, Varsha, these "aunties" secretly work to bring out crimes against women and children. Things take a tantalizing turn when a shocking incident propels Philly into this secret world. It is a crime thriller mixed with family drama.

Pros:

Richa S. Mukherjee's narration is lucid and full of humor, making this book an entertainment and a provocation rolled into one. Ageism, single living in urban societies—the various social issues have been astutely dealt with. The characters are well-fleshed out, and the bonhomie between aunties is endearing. It is great fun to read about the investigation being carried out by Bharat and Tiwari with all its quirky, desi flavor. However, the serious issues of child abuse that Mukherjee has handled into the plot are worth appreciation.

The quirky flavors of humor, social commentary, and suspense blend together seamlessly, making it a gripping read. The only small con would be certain readers finding the plot twists slightly predictable. But overall, the delivery and narrative are quite engaging. I would rate Vigil Aunties 4.5 on 5.

[Zarreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing like an oddball group of detectives and a generous sprinkling of humour. Thoroughly enjoyed the ending sequence- as is always a page turner with Richa Mukherjee’s books!

[Sucharita]

Was highly entertaining. A different style of writing a mystery novel.
Must try her other books

[Abhisikta Basu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vigil Aunties by Richa S. Mukherjee revolves around a sixteen-year-old Philly Waghmare and a group of middle-aged aunties who live in the Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society. Varsha, Philly's mother, and these society aunties are part of a group that works secretly to expose crimes against women & children and sexual offenses.

However, when Philly starts trailing Tarun Adhikari, who happens to be her best friend's father, the aunties come under threat when Ratan Tamanacha, one of Adhikari's right hands suddenly disappears. Then comes Bharatendu Bandopadhyay, a most unusual investigator who starts suspecting the aunties. What happens next? Is this secret society of harmless aunties responsible for the disappearance of Ratan Tamancha? To know more, read this book!

This is my first book by the author and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The book is fast-paced and Richa has incorporated elements of humor, drama, mystery, and suspense throughout the book. All these elements kept me hooked while reading and I finished the book in no time.

So, if you want to read a light-hearted thriller with lots of drama, then what are you waiting for? Pick this book asap!

[Siddhant Agarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richa’s books always have a freshness in them that compel you to turn the pages and Vigil Aunties is no different. The story is told in a linear narrative that explores the lives of the people living in an age-old society. The storytelling is extremely engaging and the manner in which the author approaches topics such as ageism, social lens of single people living in apartments etc., keeps you looking for more as you move forward in the story. What I loved about the book primarily was the plot that keeps you guessing whether it is a crime thriller or a family drama or something in between, and with each chapter you try and figure out what is going to happen. Another signature in Richa’s writing is the not-so-subtle humour that made me fall of the sofa atleast twice while reading the book. One aspect that Richa captures prominently in the book are the family dynamics that we have seen in our families as well and that plays a crucial role in the narrative. She has also painted the society as an extended family, which again was an interesting take, specially when we are moving towards isolations in our living units. The writing in the book is excellent and the language is easy to understand (apart from a few places for which the search engine had to be called in). The story flows smoothly and keeps you turning the pages as you are hungry to know what is happening in this seemingly-sleepy society. Richa also sheds light on child abuse, though subtly, and I was pleasantly surprised at her incorporating the same seamlessly in the plot.
The investigation part of the book was a journey in itself, and I think I might have found my favourite couple in Bharat-Tiwari with their quirky discussions. The way Richa has written that part was quite fun to read and the desi-touch in the investigation was cherry atop the cake. I wish I could write more about it without spoilers, but I can’t, so I won’t.

The climax of the book deserves its own space in this review. With everything that had happened, I had anticipated an ending that made logical sense, but then I forgot I was reading a RSM and when the reveal happens, you are astounded with what is revealed. The ending of the book is something that I didn’t imagine, and this has raised the bar for quite a lot of books now!

Coming to the soul of the book-its characters. With names like Philadelphia Waghmare, Laddoo, Lassi, Tun Tun the Cement Mixer and of course, Bharatendu Bandopadhyay, the characters of the book have been crafted with surgical precision. I specially loved the way Varsha’s character had been penned, with the laddoo-making parent on one end of the spectrum and a vigilante on the other. Her ability to think on her feet, especially after the incident with Ratan Tamancha was quite well written. Another character I loved was that of Bharatendu and his love for all things food. When an investigative officer starts cooking turai in the middle of a discussion, you can’t do much but laugh till your stomach starts hurting. The other members of the secret society had been also given due attention and their individuality and unique characteristics stand out, even when they are a part of a group.

Phew! Long review, right? But one aspect of the book that equally deserves mentioning is the manner in which dialogues have been written. There are specific moments in the book that just cannot be defined in any manner. If you can repurpose “strike when the iron is hot” to “strike when the laddoos are hot”, then everything in the book is fair game, I would say.

[Ibtesam Rahman · Rating 5 out of 5]

VIGIL AUNTIES BY RICHA S MUKHERJEE
🌸Thriller
🌸Black Ink
🌸354 pages
Ever since I watched Arrow, I have been fascinated with the Vigilantes. You must have heard of CCTV Aunties of your colony. But have you heard of the Vigil-Aunties of Adhunik Vikas cooperative housing society.

Philadelphia Waghmare is struggling to keep up with her father's dreams of cracking SAT's and going to college in America. She wants to pursue a career in Investigative journalism. She gets a chance to dip her toes in the mystery when her society becomes a hot place for the disappearance of a crook - Ratan Tamansha and a police officer Bharatendu Bandhopadhyay comes asking questions.

There was never a dull moment in the whole book. It's a fun ride filled with humorous word plays, clever puns, children with really weird names like Laddoo, lassi, Jamun. The whole middle class experience. The stories are relatable. Each family so unique yet so close to reality. You can not help but connect with the characters.

The characters are so well sketched. Their background, their mannerism, their loyalty to their purpose. Some books have good plot and some good characters. This had both. I felt like I was reliving a 90s everyday life when I used to stay in quarters. The language was super easy to follow. I loved how the tarka of Bengali and Hindi words were added.

My favourite characters other than the Panchkanyas ( our Vigil Aunties- Lu, Charu, Shobha Varsha and Patience) was Jamun. I mean Jimin. I need a Jimin in my life who brings me Icecreams and gifts me customised chopsticks declaring his love with Sarang-hae. Haaye 🙈 Sadly, he's a little too young in the story.

The story being so heart warming and light hearted didn't deviate from its true purpose- sexual harassment. The Vigil aunties true to their goal acted as heroines and reported potential predators, doing their part for the society. The story dealt with such a heavy theme in a surprising mature, realistic way.

I loved how the major event in the story changes Varsha and Philly in the slightest of ways for the better. I loved the bond the aunties had. The story reminded me so much of Dial A for aunties ( also known for aunties and it's humour). The book was fast paced but you won't be disappointed.

Did I dislike anything in the story? Not really. Since the book is packed with drama and humour, there so much to take in from each page. It's filled with indian references from pop culture superheroes and detectives to simple things like Cuisine, everyday struggles of an Indian woman and the dreams of a middle class person.

I don't usually read murder mysteries or thrillers because one either some don't live upto their hype and some are so hard to follow the clues and understand. I loved how easy and smooth the story flow was. The stellar narration, the short chapters, the never dying thrill made the story a delight to read.

[Jainand Gurjar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vigil Aunties by Richa S. Mukherjee, as the name suggests is the story of the 'Aunties' of Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society who meet regularly for the meet-ups and gatherings. Things were working quite smoothly for them until one of their member's daughters - Philadelphia aka Philly shares a shocking incident with Tarun Adhikari, and their secret society of women comes under threat with the disappearance of Ratan Tamancha, one of the Adhikari's assets. And thus began the game of cats and mice of the 'Aunties' with Bhartendu Bandopadhyay, the most unusual investigator! To know what happens to their group and their secret, read the book!

Having read "The Curse Of Kuldhara" by the author earlier and enjoying it, I have had high expectations from this book and it didn't disappoint. The story is very well plotted and the chapters are written from the perspective of Philly and others, depending on the story.

Each of the 'Aunty' in the story shows the readers the daily dynamics of the middle-class family and individuals and their struggle - finances, health, individuality, body type, identity and desires - and how they try to navigate all of it when society keeps a keen eye on them, literally and figuratively!

Mukherjee very well pulled out an almost perfect and engaging ending, and cleared all the doubts one might have while reading the story, especially in the middle of the book! I had so many objections while reading it and to be honest, at one point I felt very disconnected from the story but it was just a build-up that Mukherjee was creating and although the ending was a little predictable because of that, it was near-perfect!

The use of regional language and the inclusion of local food enhanced the story very well. The names and the nicknames were another delight in the story. However, I felt that the narration was a little confusing at times, especially in the beginning and required more effort to make sense of it. The story felt a little mechanical in between but thankfully it picked it up at the right moment!

Overall, it was a very enjoyable read and I loved how well the author integrated some important themes through the story without trying to make a point out of it. So if you are looking forward to reading an engaging, dramatic, humourous mystery, this is a perfect read for you!

[Chitra Iyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the blurb states, a group of aunties in a mediocre residential colony keep a vigil on sexual predators and as much as to their capacity, take action and help the police. But when such a thing happens closer to home, the group takes matters into their own hands. When the handsome Mr Bandhopadhyay makes an entrance to investigate further, the usually alert and careful aunties falter and what happens next makes for the rest of the story.

Now, onto the review. Firstly, just like the title, the entire book is filled with humorous and interesting plays on words, making reading it an absolute pleasure. The author’s writing style is a treat and is one of the main reasons this book is interesting. The language used is very casual, Indian English which is easy to read.

The characters are as if picked out from neighbourhoods in a middle-class household. I enjoyed being transported back to the close-knit society that feels so familiar.

Being a mystery/crime genre and despite the humour, the book doesn’t deviate from the plotline. The author makes sure that the pace and the thrill never die down. Toward the end of the story, the true purpose of the book comes forward and that is simply heartwarming! A brilliantly written book, in my opinion!

Of course, as mentioned before, the light prose is what impressed me most. The subtleties of mundane things weaved into the story simply elevate it. Here are some examples from the book:

What had seemed like a Disney fairy tale with a college sweetheart had turned into a Ramsay Brothers’ production soon after their secret wedding.

Another one:

‘I’m sure none of those women get to any problem-solving before burping their babies and husbands, getting an earful from the mother-in-law or haggling with the bhajiwala. That is our lot. Nabbing criminals one dekchi, baingan and Rin bar at a time!’

Vigil-Aunties is an interesting mystery based on casual banter – a very good combination. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The book would cater to a larger reader audience no matter the genre preference. Highly recommended!

**This review is powered by the Blogchatter Book Review Program**

[Kitabi Keeda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will keep you entertained & on the edge of your seat, while also providing food for thought!

🧐INSIGHT: Adhunik Vikas Cooperative appears to be your run-of-the-mill housing society, but it is harbouring an explosive secret — a group of vigilantes comprising unassuming, middle-aged women! When an incident threatens to blow their cover, the ladies must band together to show the world that your silence shouldn’t be misconstrued as your weakness, & that some superheroes wear saris instead of capes!

🧐REVIEW: The idea of a group of middle-aged women as vigilantes, or rather, the “vigil-aunties” is quite innovative. When combined with the deft writing style & unique narrative voice, the story becomes a compelling satire on how society treats women, especially women who are “past their primes.” Peppered with healthy doses of humour & sarcasm, it makes do for a well-written, if not a tad predictable suspense thriller on the side, that is equal parts entertaining & thought-provoking. Overall, a great, refreshing read that is a celebration of female friendships, but will also make you ponder on what we, as a collective whole, do to our women, & how we can rectify that.

🧐STRENGTH: 1. The writing style was sharp, witty & displayed remarkable prowess. There was adequate humour, drama, suspense (& personally, even a bit of swoon) lacing the story, making it enjoyable for a wide range of readers.
2. Though the book featured an ensemble cast, every character was well-developed, even the sidekicks. Kudos to the author for the characters of Philly, Varsha, & Bharatendu.
3. The story, though it may read as a light-hearted, cosy mystery, is actually layered & complex, with themes touching on certain social issues, like the condition of women, the struggles & unfulfilled dreams of the “middle-class” & parent-child relationships.
4. A few twists in the ending.

🧐WEAKNESS: 1. The pacing was mixed, slow at certain points then picking up again.
2. I have ambivalent feelings about one revelation at the end.

🧐TARGET READERS : People in the age demographic of 18-45.

🧐GENRE: Thriller

🧐RATING: 4.2/5

[Bhiju · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who says superheroes only wear capes and suits? Some drape sarees, step out in salwars, or even stride in shorts! Richa S. Mukherjee’s Vigil Aunties is a rollercoaster ride packed with humor, drama, and vibrant desi flair.

The story revolves around a gang of spirited middle-aged women who refuse to be sidelined by societal expectations. Instead, they form a covert operation to bring justice, all while balancing their everyday lives.

The aunties in this book are not the usual docile women confined to the kitchen.They are fierce, funny, and unafraid to challenge norms. Their camaraderie, their banter, and their unapologetic boldness make them unforgettable.

Instead of the usual crime-thriller setup, this book takes a lighthearted yet impactful approach to vigilantism. This felt so fresh and new.The author's writing style is incredibly engaging. The humor is on point, I had to pause, laugh and recover. The dialogues are crisp, and the characters feel alive.

This book also speaks volumes about ageism, sexism, and how women—no matter their age—can take control of their own narrative (and their neighborhood, if required).

Not to forget the food descriptions in this book.They are so vivid that you don’t just read about them—you feel as if you’re inhaling the aromas. The way the author brings food to life on the page makes it an experience in itself, adding an extra layer of richness to the story

The book leans more toward humorous crime fiction than a gritty thriller, with the aunties pulling off wild stunts against dangerous criminals with surprising ease. While unrealistic, the fast pace, witty execution, and sheer entertainment make it easy to overlook logic and simply enjoy the ride.

If you love strong female leads, humor, and stories with a mix of mischief and social relevance, Vigil Aunties is a perfect pick.If you love neighborhood drama, sassy aunties, and investigative chaos, this book is for you.
Would I want to live in this aunty-dominated society? No, I’d be too scared of being under their surveillance. But would I read a sequel? Hell yes!

[Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been a while since I read a fiction and this one fit the bill perfectly. The book's storyline and captivating set of characters drew me in completely. I was so absorbed that I devoured it in a single sitting!
Having spent my childhood in a society almost similar to the one mentioned in the book, I was able to relate to various instances and people that I have come across there.
The storyline starts off at a leisurely pace, but it soon picks up and becomes filled with thrilling and chilling moments. The novel centers around a group of women who take it upon themselves to bring down sexual predators by anonymously tipping off the police. This unique and compelling premise adds an extra layer of intrigue and suspense, making the book an exhilarating read.
There are quite a few characters in this book but as we read on we get more familiar with them and they pull us into their world.
The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, leading to a satisfying conclusion where everything comes together seamlessly. The story touches on various themes such as women's empowerment, teenage crushes, loyalty, and friendship, adding depth and richness to the narrative.
I also loved the author’s sense of humor. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments. And the reference to food and the kitty parties made me hungry! The writing style is refreshing with a lot of references to TV shows, movie names, etc which made me nostalgic in a way.
I also enjoyed the creative names of some of the characters, such as Philly, Ladoo, and Lassi to name a few. These unique names added a charming touch to the story.
Overall, it's a thriller with a good dose of humor that is guaranteed to keep you engaged from start to finish. The characters are not only memorable but also endearing, leaving a lasting impression on your heart.

[Kshitij Bajpai · Rating 5 out of 5]

"All sense and logic end where love and loyalty thrive."

Book - Vigil Aunties
Author - Richa Mukherjee
Pages - 368
Published - June 28 2024

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
There is only one goal in the life of sixteen-year-old Philadelphia aka Philly Waghmare, to ace the SATs and study in the USA, and have her father's American dream fulfilled. The most happening thing that happens in her society is the regular meet-up of her mother Varsha with her friends. But one day, things change. Varsha and her friends find themselves in the midst of a disappearance investigation.
I picked up this book thinking it's a thriller, but it was so much more! The layers of humour, emotions and downright madness made this book and absolute rollercoaster for me. The plot of the book had an organic pace and it didn't feel at all rushed. Every single plot line was given enough time, with regards to the context, to marinate and put to use.
The characters were felt natural, with Philly's quirks of hiding under furniture to escape the noise or Patience having none of it with the society's secretary, and Jamun aka Jimin being a total vibe!
One of the major plotlines of the story, that essentially is the root of it all, was handled very well. Crimes against women, as a theme, wasn't diluted at all, but how the author dealt with it, was, but it certainly made a noticable and worthwhile impact.
A special appreciation for Bharatendu Bandopadhyay for being amazingly good at cooking food and cleaning up mess.
This is simply one of the most hilarious books I've read in recent memory. An absolute laughter fest, Vigil Aunties kept me hooked till the end of the story, as it would keep you interested! Highly recommended for everyone!

[♡ Diyasha ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐕𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐥 𝐀𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 •

• Richa S. Mukherjee's cozy mystery "Vigil Aunties" has a lighthearted mystery in it. Women in leadership roles are honored in this book. It is mysterious just from the title. Everybody wants to know more about it. 🌤️

• "Vigil Aunties" book's plot centers on sixteen-year-old Philly Waghmare and several middle-aged aunts who reside in the Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society. These aunts decided to create a clandestine group where they would find and expose sexual predators by means of clandestine signals and messages, having grown tired of their dull everyday lives. 🍂

• The secret society was unable to function as intended when Detective Bharatendu Bandopadhyay took on the case of Ratan Tamcha. Initially, I thought that some chapters were just informational and uninteresting, but eventually the plot found its place. This book is similar to the detective film that I enjoy watching on a daily basis! Every character has been written so exquisitely. Every chapter is well-written and concise, which is a relief. 🌙

• The book deftly addresses a variety of societal issues, such as child abuse, sexual harassment, and the expectations society places on women. The author skillfully incorporates Indianness into most of the writing, including the use of nicknames, depictions of middle-class families, Bollywood films, Indian cuisine and desserts, cat parties, and Indian animation. Richa S. Mukherjee's book, which I am reading for the first time, is a complete "dive into me" read. 🦋

@mukherjeericha @thisisravinder @readwithus_bookclub @escapingtheordinary_ @aastha__anand @sukaina_writes

𝐇𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲? ✨

[Tanushri · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you think a group of middle age aunties have to talk in a kitty party? Their problems? Kids? Husbands? Fashion? Make-up? You are wrong!! When you get to know about one such group residing in an old and crumbling housing society called "Adhunik Vikas Cooperative  Housing Society", you'll have to change your thoughts and reset them. 

In Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing society nothing exciting ever happens. Their are society meetings where people argue and thats the most exciting tjing thier. Philly Waghmare finds her society extremely boring and is not interested. For her the society is complete opposite to its name and its residents are its flag bearer. But one day, something happens and she finds out that her middle class, calm and sanskari mother is actually a leader of a secret society of women. A society who fights injustice. She also finds out that this society might be the reason of disappearance of a dangerous person, Ratan Tamancha! Now, how will she deal with this? And why her best friend's father is related to all this? Who is this Ratan Tamancha? And why Inspector Bharatenfu Bandopadhyay is doubting her mother?

I love thrillers and if its mixed with a pinch of humour then absolutely yes!!  The story is good, written so smoothly and I never felt bored! What more would a reader want? I have laready planned to buy this author's other books soon and waiting for part 2 of this book, may be?

If you are looking for some light hearted thriller which you can relate too, read this immediately!

[Aparna Prabhu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Philadelphia (Philly) Waghmare's inquisitive nature made her want to pursue a career in investigative journalism.  From a young age, she was moulded to follow her father's footsteps and tread the path he had taken. The only respite in her monotonous life was that her room overlooked the windows of the ground floor. 

“It is a sort of vagueness that comes from belonging to the middle class. We have big dreams, but we chicken out halfway, as if convinced that we don't deserve them.”

Philly's mother, Varsha Waghmare was a seasoned confectioner who rolled out scrumptious sweets. She secretly headed a close-knit group of ladies who astutely observed the surroundings for any clue on miscreants. They would file complaints anonymously through Babu who would deliver yellow packets that consisted of proofs at the police station.

The book is narrated from Philly's POV and the Chattering Chachi's dubbed as Vigil-Aunties.  Dollops of humour served with a pinch of sarcasm infused in the narrative adds a layer of intrigue and depth. The ladies were an absolute laugh riot bringing joy and created an umbrella of safety with their presence.  There was a small yet significant part that stated how superheroes in pop-culture would function if they had to deal with domestic chores. There were many nuances like these strewn throughout the book, that will make the readers contemplate the patriarchal setup of the society. 

‘Vigil-Aunties’ doesn't confine to the conventional norms of a thriller, it's a concoction that will burst into delightful Indian flavours when you savour it.

[Ketki Tiwari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vigil Aunties is a delightful read that has everything we Indians relate to: childhood show references, Indian foods and sweets, and aunty kitty parties. But the real surprise? Detective aunties! This twist makes the book the ultimate cozy mystery, with an ending that ties everything together perfectly.

The story is set in the Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society, where things take a turn when the police discover it was the last known location of Ratan Tamancha, a goon who disappeared recently. As the investigation unfolds, evidence points to a secret society within the building. The mystery that unfolds and the involvement of the aunties make this an amazing thriller.

I had a great time reading this book—it was so engaging! Although the beginning was a bit overwhelming with so many characters being introduced, I eventually got the hang of who belonged to which family. The way the story progressed and the satisfying ending made it all worthwhile.

I especially loved the Indian tadka in the story and the important themes Richa discussed, like the generalization of aunties and older women, the perception of northeastern Indians, and discrimination based on age and gender.

Richa's writing is easy to follow, with thought-provoking lines sprinkled throughout. If you're looking for an engaging read that blends Indian culture and mystery, "Vigil Aunties" is the perfect choice.

Thank you author and BlackInk Publishing for the review copy.

[Abinaya Annadurai · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vigil Aunties by Richa S. Mukherjee is an engaging mystery thriller. I adored the idea of a secret society of middle-aged women. They do investigations, collect evidence and help local police, but they do it anonymously. They provide evidence against sexual predators.

The story revolves around sixteen-year-old Philadelphia aka Philly Waghmare, her mother Varsha and her motley group of society of aunties. An incident leads Philly to trail Tarun Adhikari, the hotshot father of her best friend, Naina. Detective Bhartendu Bandopadhya found out about this secret society while investigating a high-profile case. There begins the game of cats and mice.

The story was filled with humor even in serious situations. The author's writing makes everything vivid. The story was fast-paced and engaging. The author touched topics like ageism, feminism and the dynamics of middle class families. I loved the secret society and how they were loyal to each other. Mukherjee also shows their unique personalities and makes them stand out, even in the group. I adored Mukherjee's writing style of mixing thriller with humor.

The family dynamics are shown in a accurate way. The language used is lucid and easy to understand. The story was so interesting that it compelled us to turn the pages. The names and nicknames given to the characters are adorable. The references to Indian foods, sweets, parties, everything that has my heart.

Overall, I loved and enjoyed this book and would strongly recommend it to all thriller and detective story lovers.

[bookswithchaipai · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love books which are set in cozy housing societies, where every one is in each others business, and where committee meetings and neighbourhood squabbles form the high point of their day. They always make me nostalgic, taking me back to my childhood, and this book captured that charm perfectly.

A bunch of seemingly innocent, delightfully nosey aunties band up to do some heavy duty snooping, to anonymously assist the police in apprehending sexual predators, but then something happens which turns their world on their heads.

The storyline is exciting, featuring a handsome hunk and his sidekick who enjoy food, enquiring about a missing person - driving the women in the society to distraction. Philly, one of the teenage pratagonists, has a fierce head on her shoulders, but is cowed by her father’s demands. And then there are the aunties, bumbling through an investigation by eavesdropping at their work place, and creating a wild guffaw inducing ruckus when they are at it.

What I truly appreciated was the underlying social commentary. Issues like women’s empowerment, ageism, societal expectations, and parental pressure are tackled with a touch of slapstick humor, making the message hit home without being heavy-handed. And the yummy pedas, jhinge poshto, Pakodas and also Hindi words and expletives interspersed in the narrative added to the local flavor.

I loved the narration style, which alternates between Philly’s stream-of-consciousness POV and the third-person perspectives of other characters. It creates a rich, immersive reading experience. The characters are quirky and relatable—you’ll likely recognize someone from your own neighborhood in them.

And to top it all, I loved the clever play on words - ‘Vigil Aunties’ - which perfectly encapsulates the novels central theme and tone. This was just the book I needed to pull me out of a reading slump: fresh, funny, and thoroughly entertaining.

[Shikhar Ahuja · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book feels like it's from a regular world, but magic happens when Philly takes the lead. Her love for books makes *Vigil Aunties* feel very 'meta.' Philly is bold, honest, and really cool. The author adds a unique touch by giving characters fun nicknames, like "Tamancha" and "Philly" (a nod to the city of Philadelphia). The humor in this book sets it apart from typical murder mysteries. It’s rare for me to laugh out loud while reading, but this book made me do that. The jokes come from the everyday lives of the characters, making the humor feel natural.

The author also weaves in childhood games and talks a lot about sweets through the voices of Varsha and Bharatendu. Bharatendu didn’t scare me, but he did add tension with his sharp observations.

What surprised me most was how deeply Mukherjee explored the complex family and societal dynamics in a brown household, especially how it affects women. I read about a divorced mother fighting to give her child everything, a young woman facing society’s outdated views on unmarried women, and a mother-son duo who love their patriarch but aren’t fully understood by him.

[Promita Dey · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Vigil Aunties" is a delightful blend of humor, drama, and mystery set in the vibrant world of the Adhunik Vikas Cooperative Housing Society. Richa S. Mukherjee masterfully captures the dynamics of a close-knit community through the eyes of Philly, a curious and lively teenager, and a broader narrative that reveals the hidden lives and secrets of its residents. The novel’s charm lies in its quirky characters, witty dialogues, and the unexpected twists that keep readers hooked until the very end.

Mukherjee’s exploration of themes like women’s empowerment and the strength of community adds depth to the story, making it more than just a light-hearted read. The "vigil aunties" take on social justice with a mix of determination and humor, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. "Vigil Aunties" is a must-read for those who enjoy a story that combines heart, humor, and a touch of mystery.

[Ambica Gulati · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy murder mystery with a secret society of middle-aged women at its heart, it is packed with relatable characters and social commentary. In a sleepy society, home to middle class citizens, live the Waghmares. The women of this family take centrestage in the book–mother Varsha, a seemingly benign lady, is the head of a vigilante secret society and the daughter named Philly (full name Philadelphia) is also on a secret crusade. The father Pramod is obsessed with sending his daughter to the United States of America so she can lead a better life.
Mukherjee has a satirical style. Mukherjee has rooted well for the women, giving us the highs and lows of their lives, their neglected or upturned dreams. The loyalty and commitment of the group is commendable.

[Aastha Anand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richa's books not only guarantee a great time but also fun moments and relatable characters that tend to stay longer than intended because they just get embedded in the readers mind. Funny names are a constant in every book from Bhindi to Lassi  or Jamun, no sorry Jimin it has made me hungry and laugh at the same time. Vigil Aunties is till date Richa's best work I would say. The writing is simple and engaging that kept me hooked and the best part was I was able to hear everything in Richa's voice. The characters she comes to with and the way they are developed shows how much they had been lived with  before being brought alive in the book. Each character has their own charisma and story to tell which one gets to know without impacting the main plot running.

[Anindita Ghosh · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this story, we find 5 perfectly homely, docile, demure aunties of the neighborhood- who on first look you will dismiss without thinking twice. But do look twice, because they have a secret gang. They will do anything in their power to bring down criminals and put them to law and order. Everything was going according to the plan, until a murder happens under their nose!

This book has the perfect world and character building. It will leave you hilariously mesmerized, each chapter short on it's own, and each comedy scene is actually a little bit deeper than that. It's been long that I read books like this actually.

If you love mystery and a good laugh, do give this book a try. I give it 4.5 stars out of 5.

[Khushwant Rakhecha · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Vigil Aunties" by Richa S. Mukherjee is a captivating and witty mystery novel that follows a group of Indian aunties who become unlikely detectives.

The book combines humor with social commentary, addressing themes like ageism and the experiences of single individuals, all while delivering an engaging narrative filled with relatable characters.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for cozy mysteries and It's perfect for book clubs.

[Ankita Goswami · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 (rounding up to 4 to support more writing like this from Indian authors).

I really enjoyed 'Vigil-Aunties'! The "aunties" were a delight, and the writing was very good (even though the occasional use of Hindi words felt a bit distracting). While the plot is admittedly paper-thin, the story shines with its fun, heartfelt portrayal of its female characters and their interactions.