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A Dowryless Wedding
Immerse yourself into the story of protagonist Franklin, a satirist-natured researcher living in a rural area of South India. A simple man with simple needs, his life revolves around his daily work and occasional catch-up sessions with his comrades.Until one day, when his family - and seemingly all of his village's residents - decide that it's time for him to find a bride for himself.Franklin acquiesces. Excitement ensues, yet there is a lingering hesitation in the air. Amidst conversing with Nisha, the childlike bride chosen for him, Franklin comes face to face with a significant part of a culture that he refuses to abide by.Will Franklin succeed in convincing his family and village folk to defy the norm? Or will he end up failing and eventually succumb to society's pressure?Read A Dowryless Wedding - Merlin Franco's page-turning debut novel - to uncover a humorous take on the world of dowry that Franklin faces heroically amidst varying degrees of religious, political and social narratives.
- GenresFiction
Paperback
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About the author
Merlin Franco
4 books642 followersMerlin Franco is an Indian-born academic with a PhD in Ethnobiology. He currently lives in Borneo with his imaginary girlfriend and a gang of feral monkeys. Merlin’s hobbies include staring at the ceiling, stroking his greying beard, and running away from stray dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 4, 2018
Merlin is an author who just made his debut with A Dowryless Wedding. I have had the chance of reading many debuts in the past but this one is certainly a little different. Social problems have been raised and questions have been tossed in the air with no certain answers because the author just wants to make the readers aware and amused. The wedding of Franklin and Nisha is at the centre of the novel and the troubles and happiness that this marriage brings before happening and after happening have been depicted very realistically by Merlin.
Moreover, the author has used elements of the first person narrative carefully but in some instances, he could not justify the deeds of the protagonist (I am assuming Franklin as the one). Nisha's character has been portrayed as someone who does not have that conviction in her decisions and as someone who depends on others', her parents in this case.
To sum up, A Dowryless Wedding will certainly amuse you with the satiric and humorous element in the fiction. It will also compel you to think more and more...
Moreover, the author has used elements of the first person narrative carefully but in some instances, he could not justify the deeds of the protagonist (I am assuming Franklin as the one). Nisha's character has been portrayed as someone who does not have that conviction in her decisions and as someone who depends on others', her parents in this case.
To sum up, A Dowryless Wedding will certainly amuse you with the satiric and humorous element in the fiction. It will also compel you to think more and more...
July 1, 2018
Refreshing and breezy, Merlin Franco's debut novel, 'A Dowryless Wedding' takes the reader through a gamut of expressions, lived experience and conflicts that accost an ecosocialist and ethnobotanist, Franklin. Hailing from Kanyakumari, the author provides a glimpse of the socio-economic and political condition of the middle-class Christians and their materialistic aspirations. Written in simple prose, the novel is a page-turner in terms of the familiarity it offered. A Tamil myself who is familiar with the systems of the down South, the novel though offered nothing new, except for the joy that "Ah! I know this!" quality. The familiar is always comforting and that is exactly what Franco's novel does to the reader. The problem of dowry is not an unfamiliar one in India but every region has its own version of the social evil which manifests in different forms. The language, liberally strewn with the local Tamil flavour was much welcome and lends an authenticity to the untranslatable words and phrases. The plight of an educated liberal who is also a Christian atheist is double whammy to the protagonist who is torn between his love for his wife and her naive behaviour.
Reading this novel, reminded me of Perumal Murugan's translated works which also bear striking similarities of the vernacular sprinkled liberally and the way of life in the Tamil villages/cities. For an Indian reader (read North, West, East), the novel showcases the way of life of the Tamils in the southernmost South India and for the non-Indian reader, the book is a revelation of the myriad practices and customs of the Christian Tamils who are not often represented in mainstream literature. It's a win-win for all readers - familiar, disturbing and engaging.
Pick up this book on a weekend and you will not regret the read.
Reading this novel, reminded me of Perumal Murugan's translated works which also bear striking similarities of the vernacular sprinkled liberally and the way of life in the Tamil villages/cities. For an Indian reader (read North, West, East), the novel showcases the way of life of the Tamils in the southernmost South India and for the non-Indian reader, the book is a revelation of the myriad practices and customs of the Christian Tamils who are not often represented in mainstream literature. It's a win-win for all readers - familiar, disturbing and engaging.
Pick up this book on a weekend and you will not regret the read.
July 28, 2018
Merlin's book is not only a social satire but also a realistic crack on the issues that we create - man-made issues. He attacks the marriages which become forced institutions rather than becoming a union of two individuals. He attacks the follies like corruption and joblessness. He attacks the political divides which can be seen on the roads.
About the amusement, you will get that a lot in this book by Merlin. He has been successful in portraying Franklin as a doomed hero and Nisha as an unconscious heroine who knows not what is she doing... a very light, humorous and demanding read after all!
About the amusement, you will get that a lot in this book by Merlin. He has been successful in portraying Franklin as a doomed hero and Nisha as an unconscious heroine who knows not what is she doing... a very light, humorous and demanding read after all!
July 2, 2018
What I loved about this book:
The author does a fantastic job placing the reader in a little village in South India. He paints a beautiful picture of the location, cultural norms and relationships that the protagonist is surrounded by. As the book progressed, I found it more and more difficult to put it down, and managed to finish it in one reading. The turn of events in the book were, safe to say, frustrating (in a good way) as it kept me wanting to know more about the relationships in this story and how they unfold. Kudos to the author for addressing issues that are otherwise swept under the rug.
Why the book got 4 stars and not more:
The prelude was a little difficult to get past but I'm glad I did because the story line after that picked up really well. Moving along, there were gaps that, if given more attention to, could've made the book more succinct. I closed the book with questions about some scenarios with other characters in the book. The author could've added more twists by touching on these issues as well, but understandable if he chose not to as they were not part of the bigger picture.
The author does a fantastic job placing the reader in a little village in South India. He paints a beautiful picture of the location, cultural norms and relationships that the protagonist is surrounded by. As the book progressed, I found it more and more difficult to put it down, and managed to finish it in one reading. The turn of events in the book were, safe to say, frustrating (in a good way) as it kept me wanting to know more about the relationships in this story and how they unfold. Kudos to the author for addressing issues that are otherwise swept under the rug.
Why the book got 4 stars and not more:
The prelude was a little difficult to get past but I'm glad I did because the story line after that picked up really well. Moving along, there were gaps that, if given more attention to, could've made the book more succinct. I closed the book with questions about some scenarios with other characters in the book. The author could've added more twists by touching on these issues as well, but understandable if he chose not to as they were not part of the bigger picture.
May 11, 2024
Merlin Franco's "A Dowryless Wedding" marks my second literary journey into the author's repertoire, following the captivating narrative of "Saint Richard Parkar." What distinguishes Franco's writing is his ability to weave together compelling storylines while also addressing prevalent societal issues.
The author doesn't just tackle the issue of dowry; he delves into a range of societal issues. For instance, he explores how society perceives men and women working together and how it impacts their careers and mindset.
Additionally, Franco sheds light on politics, education, and other aspects of society, offering a comprehensive examination of the various forces at play in shaping our world.
I really appreciate how the author depicted arranged marriages, showing the courtship process and the challenges that arise afterward in a very realistic manner. What I particularly enjoyed was the way the author infused wry humor into the narrative.
In terms of language, the book employs a clear and accessible style, making it easy for readers to engage with the narrative. The author effectively blends humor with poignant observations, creating a compelling and enjoyable reading experience.
One notable aspect of the book is its candid portrayal of societal norms and attitudes towards marriage and dowry. Through the characters' interactions and internal struggles, the author provides insight into the broader cultural context in which these practices are embedded
In my opinion, this book offers a genuine portrayal of how people perceive marriage and dowry in society. The conversations, the storytelling, and Franklin's internal struggles are all expertly portrayed by the author, making the reading experience engaging and relatable.
The author doesn't just tackle the issue of dowry; he delves into a range of societal issues. For instance, he explores how society perceives men and women working together and how it impacts their careers and mindset.
Additionally, Franco sheds light on politics, education, and other aspects of society, offering a comprehensive examination of the various forces at play in shaping our world.
I really appreciate how the author depicted arranged marriages, showing the courtship process and the challenges that arise afterward in a very realistic manner. What I particularly enjoyed was the way the author infused wry humor into the narrative.
In terms of language, the book employs a clear and accessible style, making it easy for readers to engage with the narrative. The author effectively blends humor with poignant observations, creating a compelling and enjoyable reading experience.
One notable aspect of the book is its candid portrayal of societal norms and attitudes towards marriage and dowry. Through the characters' interactions and internal struggles, the author provides insight into the broader cultural context in which these practices are embedded
In my opinion, this book offers a genuine portrayal of how people perceive marriage and dowry in society. The conversations, the storytelling, and Franklin's internal struggles are all expertly portrayed by the author, making the reading experience engaging and relatable.
June 28, 2018
This was a bit of a tough read for someone who does not know a lot about the customs and
rituals that are talked about. That being said, I did find the story and information very interesting. I was so happy that he treated his bride well in the arranged marriage, but was very sad for him in the ending. He did not deserve the treatment that he received from his bride and her family. The author did a great job in making me care about the characters and what happened to them. Another part that was a bit confusing for me at the start was that the characters go by several different names, Franklin, Pranklin, Pranklee, Da, Chetta......are all the same person. Overall, an interesting book.
rituals that are talked about. That being said, I did find the story and information very interesting. I was so happy that he treated his bride well in the arranged marriage, but was very sad for him in the ending. He did not deserve the treatment that he received from his bride and her family. The author did a great job in making me care about the characters and what happened to them. Another part that was a bit confusing for me at the start was that the characters go by several different names, Franklin, Pranklin, Pranklee, Da, Chetta......are all the same person. Overall, an interesting book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2018
Initially, the actions of the protagonist puzzled me slightly. Here was a man who seemed to have a pretty clear idea of what he wanted out of life, yet he allowed himself to be easily swept along like a log of wood in a current. Or did he? I will leave it to you to find out for yourself.
I like how the struggle of trying to keep all sides satisfied was realistically portrayed. Franklin’s attempts to outwit his father-in-law were particularly amusing too.
Witty and engaging; this book is one that raises more questions than it answers (in a good way). Am looking forward to more from Dr Merlin.
I like how the struggle of trying to keep all sides satisfied was realistically portrayed. Franklin’s attempts to outwit his father-in-law were particularly amusing too.
Witty and engaging; this book is one that raises more questions than it answers (in a good way). Am looking forward to more from Dr Merlin.
July 29, 2018
Merlin's book is a satirical take on marriages which are claimed to be dowryless but are rather more demanding and even extorting... Franklin's life is spoiled and he is forced to believe something he had high regards for. This amusing story of Franklin and Nisha, the newly-wed couple, will surely make the readers laugh and smile and also express shocks... do read it when you are really feeling like reading something funny... but serious as well.
November 15, 2018
This book is a brilliant and hilarious take on the custom of giving dowry from the male’s perspective.
The Book has strong autobiographical influences as the main character Dr.Franklin (distorted to Pranklee lovingly by his Tamil Mom) is also an Ethnobiologist like the author and is striving hard to conserve the flora and fauna of his native district Kanyakumari often ending up at loggerheads with the local religious and political leaders for speaking out his mind.
A fun read that also end sup highlighting serious regional and social issues .
The Book has strong autobiographical influences as the main character Dr.Franklin (distorted to Pranklee lovingly by his Tamil Mom) is also an Ethnobiologist like the author and is striving hard to conserve the flora and fauna of his native district Kanyakumari often ending up at loggerheads with the local religious and political leaders for speaking out his mind.
A fun read that also end sup highlighting serious regional and social issues .
December 14, 2018
Bought the kindle version and it was there for few months, one day night thought of checking first few pages, it got me in, very interesting. I could not sleep, from night till next day noon sat and finished reading.
A person who has reading habit from his childhood and another typical village family with interest in professional education and in urge of becoming rich. What happens if both join in a marriage relationship.
A person who has reading habit from his childhood and another typical village family with interest in professional education and in urge of becoming rich. What happens if both join in a marriage relationship.
December 28, 2018
This book is very satirical but also very real in the ways that society tells us to be. I felt bad for Franklin through much of the book because he didn't seem to need a partner but he had a strong desire for love. He wanted someone to care for him and to love him and when Nisha turned out to have a much more traditional idea of marriage, things did not work out in his favor.
The planning of the wedding was exceptionally funny and i was surprised Franklin kept his cool through everything that happened to go wrong, and all of the opposing opinions.
This book was well-written and i enjoyed it a lot.
The planning of the wedding was exceptionally funny and i was surprised Franklin kept his cool through everything that happened to go wrong, and all of the opposing opinions.
This book was well-written and i enjoyed it a lot.
July 28, 2018
Central characters:
Franklin, Nisha and others who play the subordinate yet important roles
Plot:
A marriage which is based on being dowryless but rather becomes demanding for the bridegroom and almost fails
Theme:
Realism, social issues, tacit dealings of real issues
Overall - a one-time reading novel which will entertain the readers and keep them charged! A very good attempt by the debutant author.
Franklin, Nisha and others who play the subordinate yet important roles
Plot:
A marriage which is based on being dowryless but rather becomes demanding for the bridegroom and almost fails
Theme:
Realism, social issues, tacit dealings of real issues
Overall - a one-time reading novel which will entertain the readers and keep them charged! A very good attempt by the debutant author.
July 28, 2018
Read it last week... I was one of the circle readers for this book and I liked my turn. A Dowryless Wedding is not the casual day novel and it has some uniqueness - humour, pungent satire and realism - a deadly fiction combination! You must read this book if you want to make your weekend read something fruitful and meaningful. Franklin's journey through a dowryless wedding to a weddingless dowry will surely make you laugh and worried at the same time!
July 28, 2018
A very good book! Social issues have been raised like problems in marriage and problems after marriage... Franklin's life is filled with anguish and torment just because he tries to lead his personal life with his wife happily... more than that, the book is also stuffed with humour and satire. You will feel that the book is no more amusing after a while when you make progress with your reading... it's gonna be an interesting journey.
August 2, 2018
The book is a different kind of social satire that tries to create something new in this society. A strong opinion has been delivered by the author. There is a classical development of a central protagonist who refuses to accept dowry and the story begins. With more twist and turn settle with a humour. Overall it's a good book and an enjoyable one for me.
August 2, 2018
A book is that is based on realism, modern day scenario, humour and witty solutions. An absolute package for any book lover. Nobody will like to miss this kind of literary work.
June 20, 2018
The magical technique that Mr. Franco throws his words in prose, combined with the attention to detail throughout his story telling, makes for a wonderful journey into the life of a highly educated millennial who despite his own western modern ideals is forced to conform to the awkward conservative ways of society. From the satirical reaction of a college professor when he realized young women owned a cellphone to the topic of arranged marriage and the parental influence that comes with it, A Dowryless Wedding will take you for an astonishing ride of your life. It’s another entire world that will sweep you up like a tornado and then drop you off Wowwww-ing a few hours later.
Bonus feature for the readers that have a good wild photographic imagination as Mr. Franco puts you on the front seat of the character’s life’s simulator.
Bonus feature for the readers that have a good wild photographic imagination as Mr. Franco puts you on the front seat of the character’s life’s simulator.
August 20, 2018
An impressive one time read... enjoyed the sarcastic novel with a dose of realism as well as seriousness. Unmissable!
August 18, 2018
Humorous and amusing it is, no doubt! Moreover, the book also brings out the seamy side of our Indian society where marriages aren't as simple as we think after watching a romantic comedy manufactured by the Bollywood!
October 5, 2019
Book Title: A Dowryless Wedding
Author: Merlin Franco
Format: Paperback
Book Title:
The title of the book is ‘A Dowryless Wedding’ is intriguing
Book Cover:
The cover of the book is a beautifully decorated white flower garland.
Plot:
The plot of the story is set in Kerala and it revolves around the characters of an Orthodox family. The protagonist of the story is Franklin, who lives a simple life and has a concern towards society. He has no extravagant needs and he meets up with the local comrades to discuss the issues that rural people facing in their locality.
His family finds him a child-like bride Nisha, who is innocent and has low exposure to society. They converse about everything on a daily basis and he tries to break the concept of dowry in his marriage.
Will he be able to marry Nisha without taking the dowry? Will he convince his family about the same? How will he take the pressure during this process?
Well, read this interesting and thought-provoking book ‘A Dowryless Wedding’ by Merlin Franco.
What I like:
1. The plot and the concept of the story are the main holds of this story.
2. The character of Franklin is inspiring and his ideology will strike the mind of the reader.
3. The story raises some serious questions about the dowry culture.
What I didn’t like:
4. In particular, there are no flaws in the story and it is narrated in a clear and composed in a very well manner.
Narration:
The narration is done in a good way and it could be more interesting and enthusiastic.
Language & Grammar:
A clear language with neat and uncomplicated grammar is used in the book
My Final Verdict:
An interesting book with a unique storyline which raises the question about the marriage system and dowry culture. The book is apt for all ages and all kinds of genre readers.
Book Title: 3/5
Book Cover:3/5
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Narration: 3/5
Language & Grammar: 3/5
Final Rating: 3/5
Author: Merlin Franco
Format: Paperback
Book Title:
The title of the book is ‘A Dowryless Wedding’ is intriguing
Book Cover:
The cover of the book is a beautifully decorated white flower garland.
Plot:
The plot of the story is set in Kerala and it revolves around the characters of an Orthodox family. The protagonist of the story is Franklin, who lives a simple life and has a concern towards society. He has no extravagant needs and he meets up with the local comrades to discuss the issues that rural people facing in their locality.
His family finds him a child-like bride Nisha, who is innocent and has low exposure to society. They converse about everything on a daily basis and he tries to break the concept of dowry in his marriage.
Will he be able to marry Nisha without taking the dowry? Will he convince his family about the same? How will he take the pressure during this process?
Well, read this interesting and thought-provoking book ‘A Dowryless Wedding’ by Merlin Franco.
What I like:
1. The plot and the concept of the story are the main holds of this story.
2. The character of Franklin is inspiring and his ideology will strike the mind of the reader.
3. The story raises some serious questions about the dowry culture.
What I didn’t like:
4. In particular, there are no flaws in the story and it is narrated in a clear and composed in a very well manner.
Narration:
The narration is done in a good way and it could be more interesting and enthusiastic.
Language & Grammar:
A clear language with neat and uncomplicated grammar is used in the book
My Final Verdict:
An interesting book with a unique storyline which raises the question about the marriage system and dowry culture. The book is apt for all ages and all kinds of genre readers.
Book Title: 3/5
Book Cover:3/5
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Narration: 3/5
Language & Grammar: 3/5
Final Rating: 3/5
May 22, 2024
A Dowryless Wedding By Merlin Franco is a well crafted book delving into the heart of Dowry system. Revolving around the character of Franklin, This book takes readers on a promising expedition of unveiling his life's journey and his experience with the orthodox dowry system of his society. I was inspired to pick this book after reading the previous work of the author which really delighted me. The interesting plotline and cover of this book made me grab it instantly and therefore my reading exploration of this wonderful book began.
Franklin's Natural character and the way he deals against the barriers of societal norms and conditions won my heart. Franco's ability to present the system of arrange marriages and Dowry malpractices creates a sense of connectivity with the story alongwith the easeful narration. Nisha's character adds a layer of simplicity to the story meanwhile Franklin's struggle to convince his parents about the dark traits of Dowry practice and his realistic personality creates a balance to the narration. One of my favourite parts from the book was Franco's deep exploration into such impactful topic. The book not only delves into the realm of Thought provokingness but it also entertains readers with its humourous touch given by the author.
Overall, A Dowryless Wedding is a Profound book revolving around the themes of Inspiration, Delight, Humour and Simplicity. Franco's exceptional portrayal of Franklin's character leaves a lasting impact to your hearts, allowing you to relate with his struggles and experiences. In conclusion, I will highly recommend this book to all those readers who enjoy Humorous yet deep books. A must read!
Franklin's Natural character and the way he deals against the barriers of societal norms and conditions won my heart. Franco's ability to present the system of arrange marriages and Dowry malpractices creates a sense of connectivity with the story alongwith the easeful narration. Nisha's character adds a layer of simplicity to the story meanwhile Franklin's struggle to convince his parents about the dark traits of Dowry practice and his realistic personality creates a balance to the narration. One of my favourite parts from the book was Franco's deep exploration into such impactful topic. The book not only delves into the realm of Thought provokingness but it also entertains readers with its humourous touch given by the author.
Overall, A Dowryless Wedding is a Profound book revolving around the themes of Inspiration, Delight, Humour and Simplicity. Franco's exceptional portrayal of Franklin's character leaves a lasting impact to your hearts, allowing you to relate with his struggles and experiences. In conclusion, I will highly recommend this book to all those readers who enjoy Humorous yet deep books. A must read!
November 28, 2022
Strange. I don’t think I liked this.
December 6, 2025
I won thus ebook from a Goodreads giveaway.
Wasn't sure what to expect when beginning this book, but I liked it. Very original and unique. I enjoyed all the comical mishaps that Franklin got into.
Wasn't sure what to expect when beginning this book, but I liked it. Very original and unique. I enjoyed all the comical mishaps that Franklin got into.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews