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Обещанието
Сестра ми – опората в семейството и пазителката на детските ни спомени.
Момичето, с което си обещахме да се пазим една друга с цената на животa си.
Жената, която съсипа семейството ми и провали бъдещето ми.
Единствената, която може да спаси дъщеря ми.
Развиваща се на драматичния фон на Индия, „Обещанието” е емоционална история за семейните тайни, любовта и сложните връзки, обединяващи сестрите.
„Увлекателна и незабравима история. Красиво написана и наситена с емоции. Описанията на Индия са живи, а персонажите добре развити.“ - Amazon
„Поредната красива книга от Ренита де Силва, която си заслужава да прочетете.“ – Goodreads
Момичето, с което си обещахме да се пазим една друга с цената на животa си.
Жената, която съсипа семейството ми и провали бъдещето ми.
Единствената, която може да спаси дъщеря ми.
Развиваща се на драматичния фон на Индия, „Обещанието” е емоционална история за семейните тайни, любовта и сложните връзки, обединяващи сестрите.
„Увлекателна и незабравима история. Красиво написана и наситена с емоции. Описанията на Индия са живи, а персонажите добре развити.“ - Amazon
„Поредната красива книга от Ренита де Силва, която си заслужава да прочетете.“ – Goodreads
240 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2015
310 people are currently reading
710 people want to read
About the author
Renita D'Silva
20 books410 followersRenita D’Silva loves stories both reading and creating them. Wartime Comes To West India Dock Road, the second book in her historical saga series set on West India Dock Road, is out on July 23, 2025. Her books have been translated into several languages. Her short stories have been published in The View from Here, Bartleby Snopes, this zine, Platinum Page, Paragraph Planet, Verve among others, have been nominated for the Pushcart prize, the Best of the Net anthology, shortlisted for the LoveReading Very Short Story award and The Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize and longlisted for the BBC National Short Story award. Her short story, Eavesdropping Shamelessly, is published in the Arts Council England funded Bridges Not Borders anthology of prizewinning stories. Her first psychological thriller, The Neighbours, won the Joffe Books Prize 2023. Her second psychological thriller, The Dream Wedding, is out now.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
December 4, 2016
Two women bound by love…separated by circumstances.
“A Sister’s Promise” by Renita D’Silva is a powerful piece of literary fiction. This was my first time reading a book by Renita D'Silva and it won’t be my last.
This is a story of two sisters Puja and Sharda, and their teenage children Kushi and Raj, their family life is shattered by love and betrayal. This emotional story is told by both sisters, Sharda and Puja as circumstances bring them back together after many years apart.
This novel is set against the dramatic backdrop and culture of India. What an amazing read, especially coming from someone who usually reads mystery, suspense psychological thrillers. This is definitely a testament to the author’s superb writing.
Sharda and Puja had made a promise to each other.
“We will always look out for each other and love each other best.”
Sharda is academic and all about learning while her sister, Puja is “sunshine and laughter.” Their parents had never had the opportunity to go to school, to learn to read or write.
But while growing up in India…this promise was broken.
And then many years later, Puja receives a phone call from her sister. Sharda needs her help.
But what happened all those years back that divided the lives of these inseparable sisters? Why haven't they spoken to each other for so long? Can they mend what's broken and start all over again?
What an utterly beautiful story, a story of love, loss, sacrifice, and grace. D’Silva paints a vivid picture of India: the beautiful colors, the pungent aromas, and the poverty. She will envelope you into the lives of these two women, sharing in their loss of one another.
A Sister’s Promise will remind you of how strong the bonds of family are. They will transcend time, distance, and any circumstances.
The author has a way of creating wonderful images for us through her descriptions, whether it is a scene from a poor village or the smell of food
One of my favourite quotes in the novel is:
“We waste the little time we are given in this world on immaterial things, not the things that really matter.”
I truly can’t explain just how wonderful this book was. If you want to read something a little bit different I would urge you to give this a go. At first glance it may not seem your thing, but I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the story Renita has in store. An emotional read!
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture and the author, Renita D'Silva, for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley.
“A Sister’s Promise” by Renita D’Silva is a powerful piece of literary fiction. This was my first time reading a book by Renita D'Silva and it won’t be my last.
This is a story of two sisters Puja and Sharda, and their teenage children Kushi and Raj, their family life is shattered by love and betrayal. This emotional story is told by both sisters, Sharda and Puja as circumstances bring them back together after many years apart.
This novel is set against the dramatic backdrop and culture of India. What an amazing read, especially coming from someone who usually reads mystery, suspense psychological thrillers. This is definitely a testament to the author’s superb writing.
Sharda and Puja had made a promise to each other.
“We will always look out for each other and love each other best.”
Sharda is academic and all about learning while her sister, Puja is “sunshine and laughter.” Their parents had never had the opportunity to go to school, to learn to read or write.
But while growing up in India…this promise was broken.
And then many years later, Puja receives a phone call from her sister. Sharda needs her help.
But what happened all those years back that divided the lives of these inseparable sisters? Why haven't they spoken to each other for so long? Can they mend what's broken and start all over again?
What an utterly beautiful story, a story of love, loss, sacrifice, and grace. D’Silva paints a vivid picture of India: the beautiful colors, the pungent aromas, and the poverty. She will envelope you into the lives of these two women, sharing in their loss of one another.
A Sister’s Promise will remind you of how strong the bonds of family are. They will transcend time, distance, and any circumstances.
The author has a way of creating wonderful images for us through her descriptions, whether it is a scene from a poor village or the smell of food
One of my favourite quotes in the novel is:
“We waste the little time we are given in this world on immaterial things, not the things that really matter.”
I truly can’t explain just how wonderful this book was. If you want to read something a little bit different I would urge you to give this a go. At first glance it may not seem your thing, but I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the story Renita has in store. An emotional read!
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture and the author, Renita D'Silva, for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley.
July 5, 2015
A Sister’s promise is a beautiful and emotional tale of the bond between two sisters.
I knew I was going to love this book as soon as I read the second paragraph of the prologue and realised I had a smile on my face:
“Touch-me-nots, their blooms, the soft, sugar-embroidered pink of a happy ending, shrink from the kiss of grumbling yellow bees. Butterflies coyly flutter their emerald-tipped silver wings as if dispersing benedictions from a benevolent god. High up in the coconut trees, the crows squabble and gossip.”
This story is so beautifully descriptive, that the sights, scents and sounds came to life around me as I read it. The colours in my mind were so vivid, and I can still smell the rich aroma of spices. Renita D’Silva certainly has a talent for using words in a truly beautiful way.
The structure of this story flows really well, moving back and forth between the past and present. All chapter titles make it clear who the chapter is about, so there is no confusion. I loved the way part of the story is told through letters.
This is one of those stories that really digs deep at our human emotions. It covers love, loss, grief, jealousy, anger, betrayal, forgiveness, compassion and hope.
I really don’t want to give too much detail about the story, so all I’ll say is that if you enjoy stories about human determination through tough times and the bond between family members, then this is definitely a book for you.
This is the first book I’ve read by Renita, but I’m certain it won’t be the last!
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2015
Let me thank Bookouture via Net Galley for allowing me full use of its library to feed my habit of good books.
And also to this author Renita D'Silva as I have become a stalker of her books. She cannot write fast enough for me. Her last book blew me away and this one is just as good, if not better.
She has such a warmth when writing and has the talent of breathing life into her characters.
Just look at the cover, doesn't that tempt you? It does me. Then look at the background.
We get a huge taste of India surrounding this story too.
The blurb lives up to its name and the hype grapevine is alert to her books, many of us avid readers fear we may miss one, so we keep constant watch.
This is the promise both sisters make:
Sharda and Puja had made a promise to each other.
“We will always look out for each other and love each other best.”
But not all goes well.
The sisters have are divided and not all is as it should be.
But many years later, one of the sisters needs help.
I am reading on and on, so sucked into the story, my question remaining was :
What tore these sisters apart for so long?
When this author writes the scenes surrounding India you can smell the aroma, you can taste the food, you can breathe in the air. She has such a talent for story telling she grips me each time she writes.
May she write many more books and may I be able to read them.....that's all I can say.
July 13, 2015
I had been saving this book as a reward to myself for making my own deadline. I knew that having this on my Kindle would inspire me and I was not wrong. Within hours of meeting my deadline I was reading the first page.
This is the second book I have read by this author and much as I loved The Stolen Girl I loved this one just a smidge more. The quality of the writing is excellent and for me has a dreamlike quality. I am embraced from the very first line as the prose wraps itself around me like a warm duvet on a December night. This book explores the complicated relationship that exists between sisters. There is love, hurt, betrayal, sacrifice and a bond that should not be broken.
The unfolding of the story is told by both sisters, Sharda and Puja as circumstances bring them back together after many years apart. One of my favourite parts of this book is the progression of a relationship between Puja and her son, Raj as they make the journey to India.
The story blends beautifully with the descriptions of cooking and I particularly enjoyed the revealing of the two sisters personalities through school reports.
I could talk for hours about how much I loved this book and the reasons why but if you have not read a Renita D'Silva book you are missing out on a truly gifted writer and an emotionally uplifting journey.
This is the second book I have read by this author and much as I loved The Stolen Girl I loved this one just a smidge more. The quality of the writing is excellent and for me has a dreamlike quality. I am embraced from the very first line as the prose wraps itself around me like a warm duvet on a December night. This book explores the complicated relationship that exists between sisters. There is love, hurt, betrayal, sacrifice and a bond that should not be broken.
The unfolding of the story is told by both sisters, Sharda and Puja as circumstances bring them back together after many years apart. One of my favourite parts of this book is the progression of a relationship between Puja and her son, Raj as they make the journey to India.
The story blends beautifully with the descriptions of cooking and I particularly enjoyed the revealing of the two sisters personalities through school reports.
I could talk for hours about how much I loved this book and the reasons why but if you have not read a Renita D'Silva book you are missing out on a truly gifted writer and an emotionally uplifting journey.
February 7, 2016
Within minutes of stepping inside a Renita D’Silva book you know you are in for a treat. Renita draws you into her story, fully immersing you in each experience, as all your senses are invoked. Sights, sounds, smells, colours and textures all come into play.
The quality of this writing is literary, yet it is written in such a style that it will appeal to everyone, from a holiday read to a snatched chapter in your lunch hour, you cannot fail to be moved by this book.
If there is such a thing as comfort food, then this is a comfort book, which should be seen as a treat on these dark depressing evenings.
Renita tells the story of two sisters, Sharda and Puja, and the circumstances that come together as they find themselves reunited after several years apart. It is told in two timelines, which merge beautifully as the story is told. This is why I call Renita ‘a magical weaver of words.’ My job as a reviewer is not to spoil the story, but to recommend it. A sister’s promise is an emotional journey which will tug on your heart strings. Buy it today, you won’t regret it.
The quality of this writing is literary, yet it is written in such a style that it will appeal to everyone, from a holiday read to a snatched chapter in your lunch hour, you cannot fail to be moved by this book.
If there is such a thing as comfort food, then this is a comfort book, which should be seen as a treat on these dark depressing evenings.
Renita tells the story of two sisters, Sharda and Puja, and the circumstances that come together as they find themselves reunited after several years apart. It is told in two timelines, which merge beautifully as the story is told. This is why I call Renita ‘a magical weaver of words.’ My job as a reviewer is not to spoil the story, but to recommend it. A sister’s promise is an emotional journey which will tug on your heart strings. Buy it today, you won’t regret it.
December 17, 2015
What a fabulous book and what a fabulous writer. It's nice to discover a new author you really rate, and this is one of those times. Right from the opening pages it's obvious that Renita D'Silva is a very gifted writer. I loved the book and have already recommended it to friends and family. A Sister's Promise is a ray of bright sunshine on a grey winter day.
July 9, 2019
Another wonderful read...thank you Renita xx
June 16, 2015
This is the first book I have read by this author and it certainly won't be the last.
A Sister's Promise is a story of two sisters Puja and Sharda, who's family life is shattered by love and betrayal.
I can only describe A Sister's Promise as being a wonderfully gentle read. The story is beautifully written and though told through alternating chapters by mainly Puja, Sharda and Kushi, one of the sisters daughters, it is easy to read. Through the sister's stories we are transported to India with the heat, sounds and smells.
The main character that stood out to me is Kushi, I love her strength and her compassion. The world would certainly be a better place if there were more people like her in it. I liked both sister's but for me Puja was the one I could relate to, more so in her younger years.
I think this story holds an important message of how strong family bonds can be and how life is to short to hold grudges.
A heart warming story which I think will appeal to many readers.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A Sister's Promise is a story of two sisters Puja and Sharda, who's family life is shattered by love and betrayal.
I can only describe A Sister's Promise as being a wonderfully gentle read. The story is beautifully written and though told through alternating chapters by mainly Puja, Sharda and Kushi, one of the sisters daughters, it is easy to read. Through the sister's stories we are transported to India with the heat, sounds and smells.
The main character that stood out to me is Kushi, I love her strength and her compassion. The world would certainly be a better place if there were more people like her in it. I liked both sister's but for me Puja was the one I could relate to, more so in her younger years.
I think this story holds an important message of how strong family bonds can be and how life is to short to hold grudges.
A heart warming story which I think will appeal to many readers.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2015
I was really pleased to be given the opportunity to read this novel, Renita D'Silva has written a complete gem of a book in A Sister's Promise, I loved it!
The writing is exceptional and the characters so well developed, I couldn't read this book fast enough because I had to know what happened.
A completely brilliant and highly emotional, beautifully told story, one that I would recommend to everyone. I look forward to reading more by this author.
The writing is exceptional and the characters so well developed, I couldn't read this book fast enough because I had to know what happened.
A completely brilliant and highly emotional, beautifully told story, one that I would recommend to everyone. I look forward to reading more by this author.
July 7, 2015
I would like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for approving my request to read this book in exchange of an honest review.
What's worrying me with this review is that I can never put into words the wonderful feelings I experienced while reading this work of art.
Beautiful. Colourful. Sensuous. Rich.
In my opinion, these words best describe Renita D'Silva's 'A Sister’s Promise'. This book was a much-needed breath of fresh air for me as it was so different from the crime thrillers I usually read.
Set in India, this emotional story revolves around the lives of two sisters, Sharda and Puja and their teenage children Kushi and Raj.
A promise made...
One day, while young Sharda and Puja are playing in the fields, they promise to '...always look out for each other and love each other best.'
A promise broken...
However growing up, something happens in their lives, something that drifts them apart from each other, breaking the bond between them and the promise they'd made in the process.
A phone call...
Unexpectedly after twenty years the silence is broken. Puja hears her sister's voice over the phone.
Why did Sharda call Puja after all this time? What does she want? How does Puja react to her sister's call? Most importantly, what happened all those years back that divided the lives of these inseparable sisters? Why haven't they spoken to each other for so long? Can they mend what's broken and start all over again?
One of my childhood dreams was and still is to visit the mysterious and beautiful India. Now thanks to Renita's superb descriptions, I feel as though I was actually there.
What's astonishing in this book is the way in which it is written. Renita's prose is so sensuous and rich it's almost poetic. It evokes all the reader's senses and emotions. The intricate detail the author puts in each and every sentence brings the story and its characters to life, together with a myriad of sights, sounds and even smells.
What impressed me the most is the author's frequent use of colour. It’s as though she paints a new picture on every page. For example, I have never come across an author using colours to describe voices:
'The doctor's voice tries for assurance. It brings to mind the deep indigo of a summer's night settling over golden fields.'
'Ma's voice is the colour of tamarind gleaming in the morning sunshine.'
'Worry paints Ma's voice the wet brown of muddy meadows.'
Renita D'Silva took me on an unforgettable, mesmerising journey spanning decades and continents. I found myself completely immersed in this story feeling all sorts of emotions such as happiness, sadness and anger. Not mentioning what I felt when I reached a mind-blowing twist.
I really enjoyed myself reading this book and will most definitely read other books by this highly talented author. Well done Renita! Highly recommended!
What's worrying me with this review is that I can never put into words the wonderful feelings I experienced while reading this work of art.
Beautiful. Colourful. Sensuous. Rich.
In my opinion, these words best describe Renita D'Silva's 'A Sister’s Promise'. This book was a much-needed breath of fresh air for me as it was so different from the crime thrillers I usually read.
Set in India, this emotional story revolves around the lives of two sisters, Sharda and Puja and their teenage children Kushi and Raj.
A promise made...
One day, while young Sharda and Puja are playing in the fields, they promise to '...always look out for each other and love each other best.'
A promise broken...
However growing up, something happens in their lives, something that drifts them apart from each other, breaking the bond between them and the promise they'd made in the process.
A phone call...
Unexpectedly after twenty years the silence is broken. Puja hears her sister's voice over the phone.
Why did Sharda call Puja after all this time? What does she want? How does Puja react to her sister's call? Most importantly, what happened all those years back that divided the lives of these inseparable sisters? Why haven't they spoken to each other for so long? Can they mend what's broken and start all over again?
One of my childhood dreams was and still is to visit the mysterious and beautiful India. Now thanks to Renita's superb descriptions, I feel as though I was actually there.
What's astonishing in this book is the way in which it is written. Renita's prose is so sensuous and rich it's almost poetic. It evokes all the reader's senses and emotions. The intricate detail the author puts in each and every sentence brings the story and its characters to life, together with a myriad of sights, sounds and even smells.
What impressed me the most is the author's frequent use of colour. It’s as though she paints a new picture on every page. For example, I have never come across an author using colours to describe voices:
'The doctor's voice tries for assurance. It brings to mind the deep indigo of a summer's night settling over golden fields.'
'Ma's voice is the colour of tamarind gleaming in the morning sunshine.'
'Worry paints Ma's voice the wet brown of muddy meadows.'
Renita D'Silva took me on an unforgettable, mesmerising journey spanning decades and continents. I found myself completely immersed in this story feeling all sorts of emotions such as happiness, sadness and anger. Not mentioning what I felt when I reached a mind-blowing twist.
I really enjoyed myself reading this book and will most definitely read other books by this highly talented author. Well done Renita! Highly recommended!
June 30, 2015
A beautiful book that just oozes Indian atmosphere. It totally immerses you in the culture and makes you want to visit.
The book is about two sisters, Puja and Sharda, and whether family ties are going to prove stronger than the rift that tore them apart years before. Can their bond in childhood be recaptured.
We hear from both sister’s perspectives and learn about their family life
I loved this book- and couldn’t wait to find time to sit down with this one. I recently read The Stolen Girl by this author and now can’t wait to read her other books. She has a lovely, very natural writing style that is capable of drawing you into the story and culture.
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for the chance to read this book.
The book is about two sisters, Puja and Sharda, and whether family ties are going to prove stronger than the rift that tore them apart years before. Can their bond in childhood be recaptured.
We hear from both sister’s perspectives and learn about their family life
I loved this book- and couldn’t wait to find time to sit down with this one. I recently read The Stolen Girl by this author and now can’t wait to read her other books. She has a lovely, very natural writing style that is capable of drawing you into the story and culture.
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for the chance to read this book.
June 13, 2015
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this book.
I loved loved LOVED this book. Coming from a big family, I am all about sister bonds. This book had me gripped from the beginning, I couldn't put it down. I even woke up at 3 am this morning to read more. I loved learning about the culture, and watching the characters grow. I was near tears in some parts, fuming mad in others, and chuckling occasionally. This was my first time reading a book by Renita D'Silva and I so look forward to more. I have already recommending the book to my mom.
I loved loved LOVED this book. Coming from a big family, I am all about sister bonds. This book had me gripped from the beginning, I couldn't put it down. I even woke up at 3 am this morning to read more. I loved learning about the culture, and watching the characters grow. I was near tears in some parts, fuming mad in others, and chuckling occasionally. This was my first time reading a book by Renita D'Silva and I so look forward to more. I have already recommending the book to my mom.
May 1, 2025
Сантиментално, разбира се, но има и здрава ядка. Историята на две сестри - два (липсващи) избора в една (само привидно) колоритна (а всъщност разкъсвана от несправедливости) Индия.
Приятна изненада.
3,5⭐️
Приятна изненада.
3,5⭐️
September 29, 2017
Ever since I read Monsoon Memories, I've been meaning to read more of Renita D'Silva's work. This book doesn't disappoint. Her lush prose once again captures the sights, sounds, and scents of a small Indian village perfectly. On an emotional level, be prepared for a intense experience. The tragedies that befall the sisters and their families are like swift punches to the gut. Yet the resilience and determination of the characters form a thread that holds everything together. This is not light reading, but it's very worthwhile.
July 2, 2015
A brilliant, beautiful, evocative read about family bonds and what is really important in this life. I am a huge fan of Renita D'Silva, her descriptions are magnificent and she paints such vivid and wonderful pictures that by reading her books I feel like I know her characters, have met them and walked through the landscapes and buildings she describes. To read one of Renita D'silva's books is to escape to another world - sometimes hard, but often beautiful - and you are always left with something to think about.
June 19, 2015
This is the story of two sisters Puja and Sharda who make a pact of love but who end up torn apart by love and betrayal. After many years of enmity the life of the daughter of one of the sisters will depend on the other sister, can the bond of sisters be strong enough to overcome the past and save the future.
A great story that transports you to India, making you want to visit there and discover the culture yourself, while showing that blood is thicker than water and whatever the circumstances it is very difficult to walk away from that
A great story that transports you to India, making you want to visit there and discover the culture yourself, while showing that blood is thicker than water and whatever the circumstances it is very difficult to walk away from that
August 22, 2016
Loved this book. I have read all 5 books by Renita D'Silva and loved them all. This was my final one to read and it didn't disappoint . Cant wait for her next book out.
July 20, 2015
Wow! I wasn’t sure what I expected when I knew I had the new Renita D’Silver book to read. I certainly enjoyed the first one I read, but the synopsis for this latest book didn’t seem very enticing. Now I have finished the book, I can understand why it is written in the way it is. I picked up this book and to be honest for the first few chapters was wondering if this was the same author. It seemed disjointed, who were all these people and what on earth was going on? It turns out that Renita was doing what she was clearly born to do. She was weaving her web in your subconscious, waiting for the moment maybe 5 or 6 chapters in when you just knew anything you had planned for the next few hours was NOT getting done.
Like I say by the time Renita had me in her clutches I wasn’t getting out of it that easily. My dinner, ironing and anything else remotely housework like was discarded because I just couldn’t stop reading. We meet two sisters Sharda and Puja, both completely different, but with good reason. It’s extremely difficult to explain anything about this storyline without giving away far too much. Half the love of this story was the finding out part.
What I can tell you is that the book took me on a journey, one that was filled with love, laughter and sadness all wrapped up into one. Renita has a magic ability to transport you in this case from London to India. I could almost smell the smells and see the sights. From the moment I was collared I didn’t put the book down until I was finished. I can truly say I finished this book and felt breathless it left such an impact. I love the fact that you are reading about a different culture to the one here in England and the writing and storytelling was truly magnificent. With just over half the year gone, I am convinced that this will be one of my top 3 books for 2015 in this genre. This was an exhilarating and emotional read that will leave you wanting more.
I truly can’t explain just how wonderful this book was. If you want to read something a little bit different I would urge you to give this a go. At first glance it may not seem your thing, but I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the story Renita has in store. Wonderful!
In addition to this maybe check out the Publisher Bookouture, these guys are giving the Big Boy Publishers a run for their money with the amount of cracking authors they have producing first class books lately.
Like I say by the time Renita had me in her clutches I wasn’t getting out of it that easily. My dinner, ironing and anything else remotely housework like was discarded because I just couldn’t stop reading. We meet two sisters Sharda and Puja, both completely different, but with good reason. It’s extremely difficult to explain anything about this storyline without giving away far too much. Half the love of this story was the finding out part.
What I can tell you is that the book took me on a journey, one that was filled with love, laughter and sadness all wrapped up into one. Renita has a magic ability to transport you in this case from London to India. I could almost smell the smells and see the sights. From the moment I was collared I didn’t put the book down until I was finished. I can truly say I finished this book and felt breathless it left such an impact. I love the fact that you are reading about a different culture to the one here in England and the writing and storytelling was truly magnificent. With just over half the year gone, I am convinced that this will be one of my top 3 books for 2015 in this genre. This was an exhilarating and emotional read that will leave you wanting more.
I truly can’t explain just how wonderful this book was. If you want to read something a little bit different I would urge you to give this a go. At first glance it may not seem your thing, but I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the story Renita has in store. Wonderful!
In addition to this maybe check out the Publisher Bookouture, these guys are giving the Big Boy Publishers a run for their money with the amount of cracking authors they have producing first class books lately.
June 29, 2018
An intricate and beautiful story of sisterly love that spans almost over 2 decades, “A Sister’s Promise” takes you on a journey to India and engages all your senses. Shandar and Puja grow up in the poor village of Nandihalli, in a loving family. The sisters couldn’t be more different; Shandar is hardworking, intelligent and studious. Puja is outgoing, fun-loving, rebellious and the sunshine of the family.
There's no doubt that the main character of this book is not a person but a country: India, introducing the culture, the sights, the sounds, and maybe most importantly, the tastes - It is said best by Puja’s son, Raj, when describing India, seeing this magnificent country through his eyes for the first time. A country that is full of contradictions, that grabs you by the throat, literally and figuratively.
Without going into the details of all that transpired, it’s the tradition and the Indian way of doing things for centuries that drive Sharda and Puja apart. But mainly it’s jealousy, betrayal, misunderstanding that causes their rift and their almost 20 year separation.
I realize I rarely read books with India as backdrop. It certainly made me look at India differently and understand this enigmatic country a bit better. The love of parents, the love of siblings is a universal feeling, and that added extra enchantment to this wonderful read.
Renita D'Silva is an exceptional writer.
There's no doubt that the main character of this book is not a person but a country: India, introducing the culture, the sights, the sounds, and maybe most importantly, the tastes - It is said best by Puja’s son, Raj, when describing India, seeing this magnificent country through his eyes for the first time. A country that is full of contradictions, that grabs you by the throat, literally and figuratively.
Without going into the details of all that transpired, it’s the tradition and the Indian way of doing things for centuries that drive Sharda and Puja apart. But mainly it’s jealousy, betrayal, misunderstanding that causes their rift and their almost 20 year separation.
I realize I rarely read books with India as backdrop. It certainly made me look at India differently and understand this enigmatic country a bit better. The love of parents, the love of siblings is a universal feeling, and that added extra enchantment to this wonderful read.
Renita D'Silva is an exceptional writer.
September 13, 2015
Sharda and Puja are sisters and best friends. Sharda the sensible, intelligent, responsible, and Puja, the free-spirited, beautiful, fun-loving. Their bond is so close that neither of them can imagine anything separating them. But that’s what secrets do.
What an utterly beautiful story written with elegance. It’s a story of love, loss, sacrifice, and grace. D’Silva paints a vivid picture of India: the beautiful colors, the pungent aromas, and the poverty. She will envelope you into the lives of these two women, sharing in their loss of one another.
A Sister’s Promise will remind you of how strong the bonds of family are. They will transcend time, distance, and any circumstances.
Thank you Bookoture and NetGalley for allowing me the priviledge an advanced copy of this wonderful book!
Favorite quote: “We waste the little time we are given in this world with material things, not the things that really matter, she thinks. And then when it is far too late, we long for one more moment together, a moment which, if bestowed, we will draw out and treasure, a moment in which we will say all those things left unsaid, a moment into which we will cram lifetime’s worth of good times.”
Now excuse me while I go call my sister!
www.julaynadams.worpress.com
What an utterly beautiful story written with elegance. It’s a story of love, loss, sacrifice, and grace. D’Silva paints a vivid picture of India: the beautiful colors, the pungent aromas, and the poverty. She will envelope you into the lives of these two women, sharing in their loss of one another.
A Sister’s Promise will remind you of how strong the bonds of family are. They will transcend time, distance, and any circumstances.
Thank you Bookoture and NetGalley for allowing me the priviledge an advanced copy of this wonderful book!
Favorite quote: “We waste the little time we are given in this world with material things, not the things that really matter, she thinks. And then when it is far too late, we long for one more moment together, a moment which, if bestowed, we will draw out and treasure, a moment in which we will say all those things left unsaid, a moment into which we will cram lifetime’s worth of good times.”
Now excuse me while I go call my sister!
www.julaynadams.worpress.com
August 2, 2015
I’ve read all of Renita’s novels, and like all the others, this one did not disappoint. Renita’s particular skill lies in her knowledge of the human heart. She writes about families: about mothers and daughters, mothers and sons, fathers, sisters, and friends, and all the complexities and twists that arise between those who love each other, or should. She writes about heartbreak, hurt and healing. She takes your hand and takes along on a journey that will pull at your heartstrings and bring tears to your eyes: tears of sadness, empathy, relief, and gladness. What more can we ask of an author? I won’t go into the details of this particular novel as others have outlined the story already – I’ll just say that once again, Renita has taken me into the world of a family that seemed so real that I was loathe to leave the pages to attend to the mundane tasks of daily life. I can’t wait for her next book – what will she come up with next?
August 17, 2015
A Sister’s Promise by Renita D’Silva
“From the cinematic open to the closing words of this wonderful story about the reunion of two sisters, forced apart by a rift and forced back together by tragedy, there is synesthesia.” Started this right after Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade so took me a moment to enjoy her literary style which is rich with luscious descriptive similes and metaphors. Two sisters Sharda, sensible and intelligent and Puji the one who was free spirited beautiful adored by all, were raised in India by loving parents and were as close as two sisters could be. Then life happened and cords were cut that left all involved adrift in a sea of confusion. The story flips between the sisters’ viewpoints as well as Sharda’s daughter Kushi and Puja’s son Raj. Easy to read, filled with beautiful prose and extolling the importance of honesty and forgiveness. 4.5+ stars
“From the cinematic open to the closing words of this wonderful story about the reunion of two sisters, forced apart by a rift and forced back together by tragedy, there is synesthesia.” Started this right after Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade so took me a moment to enjoy her literary style which is rich with luscious descriptive similes and metaphors. Two sisters Sharda, sensible and intelligent and Puji the one who was free spirited beautiful adored by all, were raised in India by loving parents and were as close as two sisters could be. Then life happened and cords were cut that left all involved adrift in a sea of confusion. The story flips between the sisters’ viewpoints as well as Sharda’s daughter Kushi and Puja’s son Raj. Easy to read, filled with beautiful prose and extolling the importance of honesty and forgiveness. 4.5+ stars
September 20, 2015
One of my infrequent 5 star reviews for this beautifully written story about two east Indian sisters who after years of angry separation must come together to save the life of one of their children. The story is rich with culture and colorful descriptions of the life of poor families in India. The sisters swore to love each other best for life but when they both fall in love with the same boy their stark differences shape the outcome of the two failed romances. The story is told in flashbacks from two perspectives with some parts revealed through letters. The stories are flawlessly interwoven and the reader experiences empathy for both sisters as the story progresses. The descriptions of the educational systems of India and the efforts of village families to secure education, justice, gender equality and resources are inspiring.
September 15, 2016
A Sister’s Promise is wonderfully written and emotional story about sisterly love and a betrayal that destroys their bond and causes a childhood promise to be broken.
Set in a poverty stricken village in India, this book is so beautifully written that I almost felt like I was there and could smell the spices that Sharda and her Mother were so good at creating meals from almost nothing with. I could feel the love and warmth throughout this book and as this was my first book by Renita D’Silva, I now need to read her previous novels.
The characters were strong and interesting, especially Sharda, her sister Puja and their two children, Kushi and Raj.
I am looking forward to more from this talented author and I highly recommend A Sister’s Promise.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this great ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set in a poverty stricken village in India, this book is so beautifully written that I almost felt like I was there and could smell the spices that Sharda and her Mother were so good at creating meals from almost nothing with. I could feel the love and warmth throughout this book and as this was my first book by Renita D’Silva, I now need to read her previous novels.
The characters were strong and interesting, especially Sharda, her sister Puja and their two children, Kushi and Raj.
I am looking forward to more from this talented author and I highly recommend A Sister’s Promise.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this great ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2015
First time I have read a book by this Author but will be looking for more from her to read....
This is the story of 2 sisters Sharda and Puja who are torn apart by betrayal. The story flips between the 2 sisters viewpoints and some other characters as well.
I loved being transported to India and learning all about this country.
A lovely story with all sorts of emotions (sadness anger and happiness) I really enjoyed reading this story and once started raced through the book.
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for giving me a chance to review this book and bringing a great story into my life.
This is the story of 2 sisters Sharda and Puja who are torn apart by betrayal. The story flips between the 2 sisters viewpoints and some other characters as well.
I loved being transported to India and learning all about this country.
A lovely story with all sorts of emotions (sadness anger and happiness) I really enjoyed reading this story and once started raced through the book.
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for giving me a chance to review this book and bringing a great story into my life.
August 10, 2015
Hard to put down!!
This is my third book by this author and I have enjoyed them all!! She eloquently paints pictures of what it would like to be in India! I love learning a bit about the culture through the eyes of her characters. This book was hard to put down as I was drawn into the story so quickly. This is a story of two sisters torn apart by the same love interest told in their alternating perspectives. Circumstances lead one to stay in India and the other to flee, not looking back. An ill daughter draws them back together as their family secret comes to light, it sets them each free to find each other again. Sisters united, beautifully told!!
This is my third book by this author and I have enjoyed them all!! She eloquently paints pictures of what it would like to be in India! I love learning a bit about the culture through the eyes of her characters. This book was hard to put down as I was drawn into the story so quickly. This is a story of two sisters torn apart by the same love interest told in their alternating perspectives. Circumstances lead one to stay in India and the other to flee, not looking back. An ill daughter draws them back together as their family secret comes to light, it sets them each free to find each other again. Sisters united, beautifully told!!
September 24, 2015
A beautifully drawn, complex and enchanting novel. It transports the reader to India - to the sights, smells and intense colours of that country. It's a rich tapestry of visual imagery, lyrical language and ultimately is the touching story of love and its redemptive quality. The twists and turns in the story were delightfully revealed and kept me turning the pages until the end. I have never been to India, but do now feel that I have been on a sensory journey to visit this fascinating place.
March 21, 2016
Really enjoyed this and raced through it! Beautifully descriptive and loved the use of the letters to allow the story to unfold. Tugs at the heartstrings - particularly the relationships between Raj and Puja. Highly recommended.
February 17, 2016
Renita D'Silva is the master of depicting the dual nature and stark contradictions of India in her novels: the nerve-tingling colours and beauty of its landscapes, the prejudices and hard truths that are pushed beneath the carpet and the joy and pain in equal measure that grows out of a land of such incongruities. A great many of her sentences in this novel struck me as exceptional but this is one in particular in which D'Silva evokes that heady assault of the senses, epitomising India: "The Smell of spices and dust, incense and heat, festering garbage and desperation. The taste of grit and ripening fruit, of sunshine and sweat. India. Home." Just beautiful.
Like all of her novels, A Sister's Promise emits the scent of mouth-watering Indian cooking from its pages, making the reader long to taste these creations: "In my opinion, beautiful food, seasoned with love and affection, is the greatest gift you can offer someone." I would highly recommend this evocative read for anybody looking to dive straight into the riotous, potent world that is India, with richly drawn characters and an emotional backdrop to tug at the hardest of heart strings.
Like all of her novels, A Sister's Promise emits the scent of mouth-watering Indian cooking from its pages, making the reader long to taste these creations: "In my opinion, beautiful food, seasoned with love and affection, is the greatest gift you can offer someone." I would highly recommend this evocative read for anybody looking to dive straight into the riotous, potent world that is India, with richly drawn characters and an emotional backdrop to tug at the hardest of heart strings.
July 2, 2015
A Sister's Promise is the heart-wrenching tale of a family torn apart by promises, both kept and broken. The author weaves an emotional tale of two sisters whose love is tested by a series of events that changes their lives for ever.
Sharda and Puja are two estranged sisters who haven't spoken to each other for years until Sharda's daughter has a near fatal accident that destroys her kidneys. With no one to turn to for help, Sharda reaches out to the sister whom she loved more than herself. The one who betrayed her. The one who was banished by her family.
Renita D'Silva is a painter who paints with words. I am as impressed with her latest book as I was with her debut novel, Monsoon Memories. She suffuses her writing with the sights, smells, sounds of India and transports you to the heart of the locations. She makes you live the emotions of her characters and by the end of the book you are as much a part of Sharda and Puja's lives as any member of the family. Read it...you won't regret it!
Sharda and Puja are two estranged sisters who haven't spoken to each other for years until Sharda's daughter has a near fatal accident that destroys her kidneys. With no one to turn to for help, Sharda reaches out to the sister whom she loved more than herself. The one who betrayed her. The one who was banished by her family.
Renita D'Silva is a painter who paints with words. I am as impressed with her latest book as I was with her debut novel, Monsoon Memories. She suffuses her writing with the sights, smells, sounds of India and transports you to the heart of the locations. She makes you live the emotions of her characters and by the end of the book you are as much a part of Sharda and Puja's lives as any member of the family. Read it...you won't regret it!
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