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The Secret of Elephants
Navsari, India. Penniless and trapped in a loveless marriage, Nirmala spends her days anxiously caring for her sick young son, Varun. Looming over Nirmala’s impoverished home is an imposing mansion built by her grandfather, and from its balcony her cruel aunt scorns them, refusing to help in any way.
But when a mysterious letter addressed to her long-dead father arrives from Zimbabwe, it opens a door to a past Nirmala never knew existed and a future she never imagined possible. If the contents of the letter can be believed, not only does she have family in Africa, but they might also hold the answers to a family mystery that spans three generations.
While travelling to Zimbabwe might lead to a brighter future for Nirmala and her son, it could also reignite the bitter family feud that condemned her family to poverty. Nirmala is ready to risk it all to uncover the truth, but how will she cope when this journey changes her life forever?
But when a mysterious letter addressed to her long-dead father arrives from Zimbabwe, it opens a door to a past Nirmala never knew existed and a future she never imagined possible. If the contents of the letter can be believed, not only does she have family in Africa, but they might also hold the answers to a family mystery that spans three generations.
While travelling to Zimbabwe might lead to a brighter future for Nirmala and her son, it could also reignite the bitter family feud that condemned her family to poverty. Nirmala is ready to risk it all to uncover the truth, but how will she cope when this journey changes her life forever?
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
September 15, 2022
Wow!!
Such Treachery!
This review cannot begin to do this book justice; however, I will give a brief synopsis. This is a MUST-read.
Tailor tells what happens to a family when secrets from generations are kept so long that an entire familial line is wiped from existence.
Here the author will tell you about that tragedy.
Nirmala receives a letter one day addressed to her deceased father from Zimbabwe, informing her that she has relatives in Africa. And the mansion her horrible aunt lives in does not belong to her.
With Nirmala’s husband being cruel to their son and him being unfaithful, a welcoming letter asks her to come to Zimbabwe.
So, Nirmala does what anyone in her circumstances would do. “She takes a leap of faith.”
With Varun and herself, nothing else begins their journey to their new life.
A new life filled with discovery, uncovering of secrets kept secrets of the past.
Here is a story that will pull on your heartstrings as long as you have an ounce of human emotions.
As Nirmala uncovers the secret of why her father’s family had always shunned her, she will soon discover what secrets they were genuinely trying to keep.
Nirmala uncovers a generation of secrets, selfishness, revenge, deception, and pure and unadulterated greed.
The once downtrodden girl who held her head down when spoken to will be no more, for Nirmala will have found her strength and voice once more.
Through the sins of her ancestors, the deceit stops with Nirmala and Varun.
Tailor has woven a “BRILLIANT” and “CAPTIVATING” story about what happens to a family when secrets are kept.
I was dying to know what could be so traumatic in the past that Jasmuti would shun Nirmala and her sick child.
Tailor’s word building is ambitious, and the descriptive flare to the sights and sounds of Zimbabwe are alluring, almost hypnotic.
Although the ending was perfectly done, I wanted it to be different. I wanted so much more for Nirmala, maybe 100 pages to fully solidify her life. A book two would be excellent!
I also never saw that ending coming in a million years. Whoa!
Overall, this book was amazingly done; it kept me wanting more as a book should.
I read this in one sitting because I just had to know I was “SHOCKED.”
“OUTSTANDINGLY DONE”
Shock factor, “PERFECTED.”
Tailor “Nailed” it!
Thank you, NetGalley/Vasundra Tailor/Amazon Publishing UK.Lake Union Publishing/ For this amazing eARC for my honest review. My opinions are of my own volition.
Such Treachery!
This review cannot begin to do this book justice; however, I will give a brief synopsis. This is a MUST-read.
Tailor tells what happens to a family when secrets from generations are kept so long that an entire familial line is wiped from existence.
Here the author will tell you about that tragedy.
Nirmala receives a letter one day addressed to her deceased father from Zimbabwe, informing her that she has relatives in Africa. And the mansion her horrible aunt lives in does not belong to her.
With Nirmala’s husband being cruel to their son and him being unfaithful, a welcoming letter asks her to come to Zimbabwe.
So, Nirmala does what anyone in her circumstances would do. “She takes a leap of faith.”
With Varun and herself, nothing else begins their journey to their new life.
A new life filled with discovery, uncovering of secrets kept secrets of the past.
Here is a story that will pull on your heartstrings as long as you have an ounce of human emotions.
As Nirmala uncovers the secret of why her father’s family had always shunned her, she will soon discover what secrets they were genuinely trying to keep.
Nirmala uncovers a generation of secrets, selfishness, revenge, deception, and pure and unadulterated greed.
The once downtrodden girl who held her head down when spoken to will be no more, for Nirmala will have found her strength and voice once more.
Through the sins of her ancestors, the deceit stops with Nirmala and Varun.
Tailor has woven a “BRILLIANT” and “CAPTIVATING” story about what happens to a family when secrets are kept.
I was dying to know what could be so traumatic in the past that Jasmuti would shun Nirmala and her sick child.
Tailor’s word building is ambitious, and the descriptive flare to the sights and sounds of Zimbabwe are alluring, almost hypnotic.
Although the ending was perfectly done, I wanted it to be different. I wanted so much more for Nirmala, maybe 100 pages to fully solidify her life. A book two would be excellent!
I also never saw that ending coming in a million years. Whoa!
Overall, this book was amazingly done; it kept me wanting more as a book should.
I read this in one sitting because I just had to know I was “SHOCKED.”
“OUTSTANDINGLY DONE”
Shock factor, “PERFECTED.”
Tailor “Nailed” it!
Thank you, NetGalley/Vasundra Tailor/Amazon Publishing UK.Lake Union Publishing/ For this amazing eARC for my honest review. My opinions are of my own volition.
July 20, 2023
*Bitter Feud*
This story is based in Navsari, India. It centre’s around 3 generations and along with them is a secret that has long lasting implications that changed the course of life for them all. We see how life was for the families throughout the generations and then we are in the present with hurt and jealousy simmering between the present day families.
In the present we see Nirmala trapped in a loveless marriage with her sick son Varun. She married her husband because the man who stole her heart was not to be as his parents would never accept her.
Money is tight and there is no help from her relatives who have money but look down on her. One day a letter arrives addressed to her now deceased father mysteriously from Zimbabwe. Little does she know this letter is going to be the catalyst of life changing events in her life. What is revealed in this letter is a possibility of the answers for the bitter feud that left her family in poverty.
Nirmala armed with a shocking revelation about her husband, plane tickets are organised for her and her son to Zimbabwe. This is where secrets are unpicked and with the beautiful breathtaking scenes and animals as a backdrop. When Nirmala and her son return to India they are not alone and everything changes….
This story is based in Navsari, India. It centre’s around 3 generations and along with them is a secret that has long lasting implications that changed the course of life for them all. We see how life was for the families throughout the generations and then we are in the present with hurt and jealousy simmering between the present day families.
In the present we see Nirmala trapped in a loveless marriage with her sick son Varun. She married her husband because the man who stole her heart was not to be as his parents would never accept her.
Money is tight and there is no help from her relatives who have money but look down on her. One day a letter arrives addressed to her now deceased father mysteriously from Zimbabwe. Little does she know this letter is going to be the catalyst of life changing events in her life. What is revealed in this letter is a possibility of the answers for the bitter feud that left her family in poverty.
Nirmala armed with a shocking revelation about her husband, plane tickets are organised for her and her son to Zimbabwe. This is where secrets are unpicked and with the beautiful breathtaking scenes and animals as a backdrop. When Nirmala and her son return to India they are not alone and everything changes….
November 9, 2023
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the readalong hosted by Tandem Collective UK.
The Secrets of Elephants is a beautiful, tender read about family, friendship, poverty, love, and betrayal.
We follow Nimala, who lives in a loveless and unhappy marriage with a sick son and who suffers hardships every day. I was endeared to Nimala straight away. What a beautiful, selfless, and humble woman. Nimalas aunt and cousins live in a huge mansion across the road from her small home and don't offer so much as a hand to hold during her hardships and Nimala has a daily reminder of this cruelty every day. When Nirmala receives a letter from Zimbabwe address to her late father, she embarks on a quest to find the truth and untangled a Web of lies, family secrets and more that will have life changing consequences for everyone.
I couldn't put this book down, and I lived and breathed every aspect for the whole time I read it. I was endeared not only to Nimala but also to her young son Varun, her cousin Pramod, and Suparna. The tenderness and empathy with which this book is written is just beautiful and I hope we get to see more from these characters (a prequel or sequel) in the future as I'd love to read more of them all.
The Secrets of Elephants is a beautiful, tender read about family, friendship, poverty, love, and betrayal.
We follow Nimala, who lives in a loveless and unhappy marriage with a sick son and who suffers hardships every day. I was endeared to Nimala straight away. What a beautiful, selfless, and humble woman. Nimalas aunt and cousins live in a huge mansion across the road from her small home and don't offer so much as a hand to hold during her hardships and Nimala has a daily reminder of this cruelty every day. When Nirmala receives a letter from Zimbabwe address to her late father, she embarks on a quest to find the truth and untangled a Web of lies, family secrets and more that will have life changing consequences for everyone.
I couldn't put this book down, and I lived and breathed every aspect for the whole time I read it. I was endeared not only to Nimala but also to her young son Varun, her cousin Pramod, and Suparna. The tenderness and empathy with which this book is written is just beautiful and I hope we get to see more from these characters (a prequel or sequel) in the future as I'd love to read more of them all.
October 7, 2022
This was an easy-to-read historical fiction cum semi-mystery novel by debut writer Vasundra Tailor set in western India and Zimbabwe. In India, Nirmala and her young son are struggling in life. Having married her husband Ajay for reasons revealed later, Nirmala is trapped with no support from her family, despite the fact that her aunt lives across the street in seemingly wealthy fashion. Rewind the clock and we learn bits and pieces about Nirmala’s father’s childhood and his immediate family. But there are undercurrents of unhappiness and occasional oblique mysterious references. Back to present day when Nirmala receives a surprising letter with shocking news. Fast forward and Nirmala and her son are in Zimbabwe to find out more... This was a fast read, which I found pleasant, particularly having just finished a bit of a tome (Nights of Plague - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), enjoyable though that was. The simple and straightforward writing of this book kept my focus on the storyline and the descriptions of the two countries. The characters, including Nirmala, were fairly one dimensional, and everything seems to fall easily into place - miraculously and unrealistically in my opinion. However, I encourage readers to focus their attention on the very realistic social and cultural environment that Nirmala was faced with and the challenges she had to deal with in forging her path for herself and her son. Reading offers us all a window into cultures from around the world. While our perspectives are shaped by personal experiences and environments, it’s important to keep in mind that social and cultural environments vary around the world. Contextualizing matters. This was a 3.5 read for me, rounded up to 4. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 29, 2023
This book got better as it went on. I'd give it a 3.5, due to the following flaws, but most especially the mysteries being too easily given away. I would recommend it, however, as it's a pleasant read that doesn't drag, but moves along at a steady non-rushed pace.
It's the story of Nirmala and her son Varun in India. Nirmala finds out she has long lost family living in Zimbabwe, family she hadn't known about due to a family feud ignited decades before.
The story is good overall, but the book has it's flaws. Several of the characters are beyond despicable, to the point of inciting disgust. Sometimes engendering negative emotions toward characters is a sign of good writing, in this case however, it was hard to feel much beyond just disliking them, because they had underdeveloped characters.
To be fair, some of this inability to 'connect' was due to the author trying to weave in an aspect of mystery, and not give the plot away. Take Nirmala's grandmother, Kanta, for instance - horrible, awful, mean woman. Nothing to like about her. Until almost the end of the book you have no idea why Kanta was such a shrew. It's easy enough to dislike her, but you don't understand why she is the way she is, and most of the character development in her case has to do with before the book takes place - who she used to be.
Or, Nirmala's husband Ajay - he seemed like an over stereotyped cardboard cutout. He had no depth to him whatsoever. Sadly, despite the author trying to protect the mystery, she telegraphed much of it. It was pretty easy to figure out what had happened, or would happen, long before you read it.
Some of the interactions between characters, and some of the situations in the book, were less than believable. Also, the book felt like it had a lot of filler - such as a trip to see Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. While a pleasant little rabbit trail, it had nothing important to do with the story. The cultural development (particularly in India) was a little underwhelming. Lastly, the ending was satisfactory, but the last few sentences were pretty unrealistic.
Despite the flaws, it's a fun read (especially after the first few historical chapters, and once the existence of the mystery is discovered), Nirmala is a decently well developed character, and the descriptions (particularly during her visit to Zimbabwe, and the places they randomly went on trips to visit) were pleasant. The book, if you're able to get past the flaws, will leave you cheering for Nirmala, and happy with the denouement.
It's the story of Nirmala and her son Varun in India. Nirmala finds out she has long lost family living in Zimbabwe, family she hadn't known about due to a family feud ignited decades before.
The story is good overall, but the book has it's flaws. Several of the characters are beyond despicable, to the point of inciting disgust. Sometimes engendering negative emotions toward characters is a sign of good writing, in this case however, it was hard to feel much beyond just disliking them, because they had underdeveloped characters.
To be fair, some of this inability to 'connect' was due to the author trying to weave in an aspect of mystery, and not give the plot away. Take Nirmala's grandmother, Kanta, for instance - horrible, awful, mean woman. Nothing to like about her. Until almost the end of the book you have no idea why Kanta was such a shrew. It's easy enough to dislike her, but you don't understand why she is the way she is, and most of the character development in her case has to do with before the book takes place - who she used to be.
Or, Nirmala's husband Ajay - he seemed like an over stereotyped cardboard cutout. He had no depth to him whatsoever. Sadly, despite the author trying to protect the mystery, she telegraphed much of it. It was pretty easy to figure out what had happened, or would happen, long before you read it.
Some of the interactions between characters, and some of the situations in the book, were less than believable. Also, the book felt like it had a lot of filler - such as a trip to see Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. While a pleasant little rabbit trail, it had nothing important to do with the story. The cultural development (particularly in India) was a little underwhelming. Lastly, the ending was satisfactory, but the last few sentences were pretty unrealistic.
Despite the flaws, it's a fun read (especially after the first few historical chapters, and once the existence of the mystery is discovered), Nirmala is a decently well developed character, and the descriptions (particularly during her visit to Zimbabwe, and the places they randomly went on trips to visit) were pleasant. The book, if you're able to get past the flaws, will leave you cheering for Nirmala, and happy with the denouement.
October 30, 2022
Thank you, for the suggestion Amazon, this is a magnificent story.
The Secret of Elephants is the story of Nirmala's she spends her days constantly worried about the future of her sick young son, Varun, and being mistreated and rejected by her husband.
Nirmala was married to a very bitter man twice her age, someone who mistreated her and her son only because he thought Varun was weak and shamed him, he couldn't face him or even treat him well.
Nirmala really was a very bold and strong character at first she was very quiet and didn't say much about the constant harassment of her husband but after finding out the truth about some distant relatives, that was enough for Nirmala to finally take the courage and embark on a beautiful journey that will bring so much more light and love into her life.
Nirmala flies to Zimbabwe, with her son Varun where she will learn more about her past and finally embrace the possibility to heal her son and see him thrive.
Something that really made no sense to me was the whole society levels, how they really matter more than what your son or daughter felt. Nirmala was very strong and I was happy to see how she was able to see this and fight for her happiness and her sons.
What I love about this book is, the reader is able to enjoy the evolution of the main character to see her life unfold, and how she takes the opportunity to escape and build something better for her son and for herself.
This was a story of empowerment, this is one of the first stories from India, that I've ever read that the female character getting justice and not only by others but also by herself.
Great book I really enjoy it
The narrations by Sharmila Devar were amazing I really felt like I was in the middle of the story living every step of the way what Nirmala was going through and she even made the story more amazing and gave the characters more depth.
The Secret of Elephants is the story of Nirmala's she spends her days constantly worried about the future of her sick young son, Varun, and being mistreated and rejected by her husband.
Nirmala was married to a very bitter man twice her age, someone who mistreated her and her son only because he thought Varun was weak and shamed him, he couldn't face him or even treat him well.
Nirmala really was a very bold and strong character at first she was very quiet and didn't say much about the constant harassment of her husband but after finding out the truth about some distant relatives, that was enough for Nirmala to finally take the courage and embark on a beautiful journey that will bring so much more light and love into her life.
Nirmala flies to Zimbabwe, with her son Varun where she will learn more about her past and finally embrace the possibility to heal her son and see him thrive.
Something that really made no sense to me was the whole society levels, how they really matter more than what your son or daughter felt. Nirmala was very strong and I was happy to see how she was able to see this and fight for her happiness and her sons.
What I love about this book is, the reader is able to enjoy the evolution of the main character to see her life unfold, and how she takes the opportunity to escape and build something better for her son and for herself.
This was a story of empowerment, this is one of the first stories from India, that I've ever read that the female character getting justice and not only by others but also by herself.
Great book I really enjoy it
The narrations by Sharmila Devar were amazing I really felt like I was in the middle of the story living every step of the way what Nirmala was going through and she even made the story more amazing and gave the characters more depth.
June 21, 2022
This is one of those books I probably wouldn't have discovered if it wasn't for my Booklist editor. I have a hard time with Amazon publishers' book discovery since they don't always show up in my lists from Ingram. I'm so glad I did, because it was great! Full review in Booklist, and I'll definitely be purchasing a copy for my library.
January 13, 2023
What a captivating story!
August 7, 2022
A beautifully crafted story about a woman's search for the answers to so many questions raised as she grew up.
Nirmala lives in a small, ramshackle house opposite the mansion where the rest of her family lives.
She's alone in this world, apart from her young unwell son, Varun, her good-for-nothing husband, and her aunt, who lives a life of luxury in the large family home.
Always wondering, but never knowing, why her father was cast out of his family home, Nirmala is given a letter addressed to her deceased father, sent from a faraway foreign country, Zimbabwe.
Somehow, she finds herself on a journey of discovery, to uncover the secrets that her family have been hiding for many, many years and from many different people.
This was a well-crafted story that tugged at my heartstrings. I read it over a day, because the whole tale captured me.
The secrecy and lies regarding birth stories, birth rights, and the way many uneducated men regard their wives in India rang true. It's not unheard of for these things to happen.
I loved the parts where the timeline split slightly and took us back to learn more about this family, so today's story made even more sense. The descriptions of Zimbabwe reminded me of some of my family trips back home to Kenya.
Well worth the read!
Nirmala lives in a small, ramshackle house opposite the mansion where the rest of her family lives.
She's alone in this world, apart from her young unwell son, Varun, her good-for-nothing husband, and her aunt, who lives a life of luxury in the large family home.
Always wondering, but never knowing, why her father was cast out of his family home, Nirmala is given a letter addressed to her deceased father, sent from a faraway foreign country, Zimbabwe.
Somehow, she finds herself on a journey of discovery, to uncover the secrets that her family have been hiding for many, many years and from many different people.
This was a well-crafted story that tugged at my heartstrings. I read it over a day, because the whole tale captured me.
The secrecy and lies regarding birth stories, birth rights, and the way many uneducated men regard their wives in India rang true. It's not unheard of for these things to happen.
I loved the parts where the timeline split slightly and took us back to learn more about this family, so today's story made even more sense. The descriptions of Zimbabwe reminded me of some of my family trips back home to Kenya.
Well worth the read!
November 29, 2023
This was an emotionally captivating story that honestly left me with tears in my eyes within the first 30 pages. I’d say this beautifully heart-wrenching narrative holds the same level of depth and beauty as "The Nightingale," making it an outstanding and memorable read.
Nirmala is a shining example of resilience. She navigates through so much of hardships, emerging as a positive, kind-hearted individual despite the odds stacked against her. Her journey shows us the invincibility of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of family.
The book delves into the complexities of family, both found and biological, and explores the various challenges and hardships that come with it. What sets this story apart is its unique blend of Indian and Zimbabwean heritage with such a rich cultural tapestry to explore. The rich historical and cultural really makes the read so much better!!
It's a story that will touch your heart, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human soul. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a compelling and moving tale of love, family, and heritage. 🧡
Nirmala is a shining example of resilience. She navigates through so much of hardships, emerging as a positive, kind-hearted individual despite the odds stacked against her. Her journey shows us the invincibility of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of family.
The book delves into the complexities of family, both found and biological, and explores the various challenges and hardships that come with it. What sets this story apart is its unique blend of Indian and Zimbabwean heritage with such a rich cultural tapestry to explore. The rich historical and cultural really makes the read so much better!!
It's a story that will touch your heart, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human soul. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a compelling and moving tale of love, family, and heritage. 🧡
December 3, 2022
Atmospheric, pensive, and moving!
The Secret of Elephants is an emotional tale predominantly set in Navsari, India, that takes you into the life of Nirmala, a young mother who, after her son is diagnosed with epilepsy and her loveless marriage finally falls apart, journeys to Zimbabwe after receiving an unexpected letter from a cousin she never knew she had to unravel her family’s history and discovery the secrets of her father’s past.
The prose is vibrant and expressive. The characters are multilayered, vulnerable, and troubled. And the plot is an intriguing, tender tale of life, loss, family, tragedy, secrets, betrayal, prejudice, segregation, caste division, and forgiveness.
Overall, The Secret of Elephants is a lush, intriguing, absorbing debut by Tailor that does a lovely job of blending historical events, intense emotion, and thought-provoking fiction.
Thank you to Thomas Allen & Son for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Secret of Elephants is an emotional tale predominantly set in Navsari, India, that takes you into the life of Nirmala, a young mother who, after her son is diagnosed with epilepsy and her loveless marriage finally falls apart, journeys to Zimbabwe after receiving an unexpected letter from a cousin she never knew she had to unravel her family’s history and discovery the secrets of her father’s past.
The prose is vibrant and expressive. The characters are multilayered, vulnerable, and troubled. And the plot is an intriguing, tender tale of life, loss, family, tragedy, secrets, betrayal, prejudice, segregation, caste division, and forgiveness.
Overall, The Secret of Elephants is a lush, intriguing, absorbing debut by Tailor that does a lovely job of blending historical events, intense emotion, and thought-provoking fiction.
Thank you to Thomas Allen & Son for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2022
‘The Secret of Elephants’ is a beautiful and thought-provoking story which manages to take in the huge topics of family, love, betrayal, tragedy, poverty and class divisions to name a few. It was a carefully constructed tale that I devoured in two sittings and it managed to transport me back to India and it felt as if I could feel the heat shimmering off the page and taste and smell all the amazing food. The writer definitely has a way with words and I was utterly mesmerized by Nimrala and her families story.
Nimrala lives in Navsari, India with her small son Varun and her husband. She struggles to make ends meet and when her son falls ill and she has to ask her husband for money for medicine she begins to contemplate her life. Why her aunt lives in Suparna Mansions but yet her late father was cast out by the family for daring to marry into a lower caste? When she receives a letter from Zimbabwe from someone who claims they are related her life is thrown upside down.
This book shows how deep divides in families can run and how secrets can be hidden away but when the truth comes out it can be devastating for all involved. It also shows that despite how modern India is becoming we are only a few generations away from when the caste system was rigid, marriages were arranged and love matches were rare. The author manages to convey all this with sensitivity and empathy.
I love the ease at which the author seemed to find the characterised of this story as there wasn't one who wasn't fully formed and all were memorable. I particularly loved Nimrala, Varun and Suparna. I loved the historical sections of the book and would have loved these to be slightly bigger than they were but that's me the history nut talking and wanting to know more about these characters.
Family sagas are always going to be a yes for me as a reader but mix in the lure of India, brilliant writing and a plot that covers such deep and meaningful themes it means it is a winner!
Nimrala lives in Navsari, India with her small son Varun and her husband. She struggles to make ends meet and when her son falls ill and she has to ask her husband for money for medicine she begins to contemplate her life. Why her aunt lives in Suparna Mansions but yet her late father was cast out by the family for daring to marry into a lower caste? When she receives a letter from Zimbabwe from someone who claims they are related her life is thrown upside down.
This book shows how deep divides in families can run and how secrets can be hidden away but when the truth comes out it can be devastating for all involved. It also shows that despite how modern India is becoming we are only a few generations away from when the caste system was rigid, marriages were arranged and love matches were rare. The author manages to convey all this with sensitivity and empathy.
I love the ease at which the author seemed to find the characterised of this story as there wasn't one who wasn't fully formed and all were memorable. I particularly loved Nimrala, Varun and Suparna. I loved the historical sections of the book and would have loved these to be slightly bigger than they were but that's me the history nut talking and wanting to know more about these characters.
Family sagas are always going to be a yes for me as a reader but mix in the lure of India, brilliant writing and a plot that covers such deep and meaningful themes it means it is a winner!
August 22, 2022
Nirmala has spent the majority of her life in the shadow of her family and their wealth. She is the poor relative, the one they look down upon, the one who lives in a little ramshackle place across the road from their impressive mansion.
Living a life in fear of the displeasure of a man she never wanted, doesn’t love, and who treats her with disdain. A man who thinks her son – their son – is a weakling because he is unwell. When by pure chance a letter addressed to her deceased father falls into her hands and reveals a secret she was unaware of, she starts to wonder whether life for herself and her son could be different.
The gift of being a natural storyteller isn’t one that all writers possess – they all tell stories, but there is a difference between telling a story and being a storyteller. The author leaves lines in the sand as she pulls her rake behind her, with an almost peaceful quality, and compels the reader to follow the patterns of the story being unfolded before them.
It’s a tangled web of emotional baggage and trauma. Decisions made in the blink of an eye with no regard for the majority of the people involved, they cast dark shadows over the generations of this family. They influence paths taken, chances missed and how connections are made between family members.
I think one of the most poignant relationships in the story is the one between Kanta and Suresh. The way her lack of emotional attachment creates this wave that devours everyone in their close vicinity. Does the damage inflicted become justifiable when weighed with the truth?
The author pulls in moments from history, surroundings, and politics to give context to the places the story is set in, but does so in a way that never overshadows the main plot and characters. It’s a nice wee slow burner of a read.
Living a life in fear of the displeasure of a man she never wanted, doesn’t love, and who treats her with disdain. A man who thinks her son – their son – is a weakling because he is unwell. When by pure chance a letter addressed to her deceased father falls into her hands and reveals a secret she was unaware of, she starts to wonder whether life for herself and her son could be different.
The gift of being a natural storyteller isn’t one that all writers possess – they all tell stories, but there is a difference between telling a story and being a storyteller. The author leaves lines in the sand as she pulls her rake behind her, with an almost peaceful quality, and compels the reader to follow the patterns of the story being unfolded before them.
It’s a tangled web of emotional baggage and trauma. Decisions made in the blink of an eye with no regard for the majority of the people involved, they cast dark shadows over the generations of this family. They influence paths taken, chances missed and how connections are made between family members.
I think one of the most poignant relationships in the story is the one between Kanta and Suresh. The way her lack of emotional attachment creates this wave that devours everyone in their close vicinity. Does the damage inflicted become justifiable when weighed with the truth?
The author pulls in moments from history, surroundings, and politics to give context to the places the story is set in, but does so in a way that never overshadows the main plot and characters. It’s a nice wee slow burner of a read.
January 1, 2024
An interesting book about family life over two different continents.
March 23, 2025
This book had a promising start, and I was eager to uncover the family secrets at its core. However, the execution didn’t quite work for me, making it difficult to stay engaged or fully connect with the characters. The shifting timelines were sometimes confusing, though I will say that reading along with the audiobook (included with Kindle Unlimited) helped smooth out some of that disjointedness. The narration itself was excellent, adding depth to the story.
One moment that truly stood out was the drowning scene—it was deeply moving and brought up intense feelings of helplessness, especially as a mother. That was one of the few times I really felt the weight of the story.
What made it even more devastating was how Sonal, consumed by grief, directed her pain toward the surviving child, Viren. Instead of clinging to him, she resented him, eventually disowning him. This generational trauma rippled through the family, shaping the relationships and secrecy that Jaya later uncovers.
Despite these strong emotional moments, the story often felt scattered. I struggled to stay invested, and by the end, I wasn’t sure if the characters had truly found resolution. If you enjoy multi-generational family dramas with deeply buried secrets, this might work better for you. But for me, it was a difficult and, at times, frustrating read.
One moment that truly stood out was the drowning scene—it was deeply moving and brought up intense feelings of helplessness, especially as a mother. That was one of the few times I really felt the weight of the story.
What made it even more devastating was how Sonal, consumed by grief, directed her pain toward the surviving child, Viren. Instead of clinging to him, she resented him, eventually disowning him. This generational trauma rippled through the family, shaping the relationships and secrecy that Jaya later uncovers.
Despite these strong emotional moments, the story often felt scattered. I struggled to stay invested, and by the end, I wasn’t sure if the characters had truly found resolution. If you enjoy multi-generational family dramas with deeply buried secrets, this might work better for you. But for me, it was a difficult and, at times, frustrating read.
November 13, 2024
The author blends intrigue with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and self-discovery. Through vivid descriptions of Indian culture and politics, the novel brings to light the impact of history and heritage on individual lives and explores how personal and political histories intertwine. Great read!
January 13, 2024
A story filled with family secrets and drama! I enjoyed the audiobook for this. The beginning had me intrigued immediately and there was a bit of a Cinderella vibe to it. The mystery and reveal was interesting, as well!! 4 stars!
August 25, 2023
Vasundra Tailor’s debut novel -The Secret of Elephants- is a riveting read. A story that will keep you intrigued until you turn the very last page.
Nirmala, the protagonist is trapped in a loveless marriage. She has a sickly son and a good for nothing husband who doesn’t care for her or his son. In the mansion across lives Nirmala’s paternal family but they are uncaring as well and have condemned Nirmala to her impoverished life. One day, a letter arrives from Zimbabwe addressed to her father, who is no more. The letter holds the key to Nirmala’s freedom but Zimbabwe is also the place where the family’s deep dark secret is revealed that will forever impact the lives of the characters affected.
An emotional story so powerfully and descriptively told that you will actually visualize the scenes and the characters in front of you. Tailor literally brings all her characters and the places in Navsari, Gujarat and Zimbabwe to life with her vivid writing. Her characters are all too varied but all too human. The places so descriptive, you actually can visualize them as you read. I especially loved her description of the cave in Chinhoyi.
Tailor writes about a mother’s unconditional love, of betrayal, tragedy, struggle, hope, forgiveness, and acceptance. A book you will not be able to put down or stop thinking about long after you’ve finished it.
Available on Kindle Unlimited, this is a must read.
Nirmala, the protagonist is trapped in a loveless marriage. She has a sickly son and a good for nothing husband who doesn’t care for her or his son. In the mansion across lives Nirmala’s paternal family but they are uncaring as well and have condemned Nirmala to her impoverished life. One day, a letter arrives from Zimbabwe addressed to her father, who is no more. The letter holds the key to Nirmala’s freedom but Zimbabwe is also the place where the family’s deep dark secret is revealed that will forever impact the lives of the characters affected.
An emotional story so powerfully and descriptively told that you will actually visualize the scenes and the characters in front of you. Tailor literally brings all her characters and the places in Navsari, Gujarat and Zimbabwe to life with her vivid writing. Her characters are all too varied but all too human. The places so descriptive, you actually can visualize them as you read. I especially loved her description of the cave in Chinhoyi.
Tailor writes about a mother’s unconditional love, of betrayal, tragedy, struggle, hope, forgiveness, and acceptance. A book you will not be able to put down or stop thinking about long after you’ve finished it.
Available on Kindle Unlimited, this is a must read.
March 30, 2025
This was a nice & easy read, with a simple plot & quite basic characters. I wasn't particularly gripped by the narrative, but it was interesting at times and I enjoyed seeing how the plot unfolded.
My biggest "meh" about the novel was that the characters felt very 2D, which I think is down to the writing - it was very basic, and at times it felt like I could be reading a GCSE creative writing piece (sorry, I'm sure the author is a brilliant woman and writer; it just didn't do it for me). A lot of them were also very idealised; they were either perfectly kind humans who did no wrong, or the worst and nastiest people to ever exist. I don't like that there was no in-between, because it made the novel feel unnatural.
My biggest "meh" about the novel was that the characters felt very 2D, which I think is down to the writing - it was very basic, and at times it felt like I could be reading a GCSE creative writing piece (sorry, I'm sure the author is a brilliant woman and writer; it just didn't do it for me). A lot of them were also very idealised; they were either perfectly kind humans who did no wrong, or the worst and nastiest people to ever exist. I don't like that there was no in-between, because it made the novel feel unnatural.
August 2, 2022
Plenty of intrigue to captivate me; so much so that I read it in 2 sessions in less than 24 hours. The movement back and forwards between generations didn’t irritate as in so many novels, but served instead to add clarity and answers to the web of mystery deftly spun by the author. A definite insight into a family separated on 2 continents yet bound together by their Indian heritage and blood relationship. At the same time the author whilst immersing us in the cultural environment of her characters cleverly depicts the sweeping westernisation of all nations and we are left understanding that we do indeed have more in common than that which divides us.
September 8, 2022
Simply written novel about family secrets set in India and Zimbabwe. The descriptions of Zimbabwe in particular were interesting! The plot was easy to follow, kept my interest throughout and there was a satisfying ending. I love to be transported to other cultures and countries and this novel did this well!
Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own. 3.75 stars.
Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own. 3.75 stars.
October 15, 2022
The Secret of Elephants - goodness knows why the novel was called that. A plot I guessed early on but I had to read through mundane chapter after chapter to get to the source of the story. At one point I felt I was reading a travel brochure for Zimbabwe. However on the plus side nicely written with good and colourful descriptions of life in India.
August 15, 2022
A lovely gentle evocative read, family secrets,relationships, history. Just a beautiful book.
May 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this book with it's many twists and turns. Ultimately a happy story of a family split apart between Zimbabwe and India.
January 3, 2024
This was a free book in my Kindle library but wow it was exactly what I needed at this moment and time
September 5, 2022
A good book about a troubled young mother from India who once had big dreams. She has a child with a chronic health issue, a no-good husband and lives across the street from family. Her father owned the house she lived in and with both parents dead, she now owns the home. Across the street, her aunt and cousins live in a majestic home. The family shuns her and she doesn’t know why. Her father used to call her”tiger” because she wasn’t scared of anything, but life has changed her into a beaten down young women. As she discovers the reason for the family rift, she once again becomes confident. The book kept me entertained with a few twists and unexpected turns.
I appreciate the ARC I received from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing. The review is my own. Three and a half stars rounded up to 4.
I appreciate the ARC I received from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing. The review is my own. Three and a half stars rounded up to 4.
March 23, 2025
A different type of book for me for sure - it was interesting being placed in Indian and Zimbabwee with the cultural and lifestyle comments.
On the plus side, each story before it jumped ahead was interesting in its own right, the pace kept up, the story was easy to follow, and I was never bored. On the downside, I greatly dislike when a book keeps jumping ahead suddenly decades, as this did a few times, but thankfully that later calmed down. The writing and focus were simple, as were the characters, but I wouldn't say it was always an easy read due to some of the subject matter.
And by the way, I also wouldn't have forgiven hubby either time...
On the plus side, each story before it jumped ahead was interesting in its own right, the pace kept up, the story was easy to follow, and I was never bored. On the downside, I greatly dislike when a book keeps jumping ahead suddenly decades, as this did a few times, but thankfully that later calmed down. The writing and focus were simple, as were the characters, but I wouldn't say it was always an easy read due to some of the subject matter.
And by the way, I also wouldn't have forgiven hubby either time...
September 23, 2023
Family and secrets what more do you need for drama!
September 30, 2022
I am glad that I won this title in a Goodreads giveaway, or else I might never have read about Nirmala, Varun, and the other well-developed characters. It took a little while to get used to the cadence of the narrative, and I was a little confused by the jumping around in time at the beginning, but the story was compelling and the main characters well developed. I enjoyed the inclusion of the history of Southern Rhodesia/Zimbabwe, and the depictions of life there and in Navsari, India.
November 14, 2025
It felt a bit too far fetched and inauthentic
The voices didn’t match the characters and story line well
The voices didn’t match the characters and story line well
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