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Where Mayflies Live Forever
‘Hard-hitting’ Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar
‘[A] novel of deep feeling’ Tanuj Solanki
Residents of a small town in Tamil Nadu are stunned by the beheading of a prominent man, whose head is missing from the scene of the crime. Everyone suspects Veni, a geography teacher at the local school, but she appears to have vanished from the face of the earth.
As the police gather testimonies from those who closely knew Veni, unsettling truths about this seemingly unknowable woman’s past gradually come to the fore. Where is Veni? The question haunts her family and other townsfolk, but the investigating officer has a different Who is Veni?
Where Mayflies Live Forever is as much a suspenseful mystery as it is a story about one woman’s self-discovery in the natural world, with a disillusioned but probing heart. Anupama Mohan’s astonishing literary debut, written in fiery yet sublime prose and rendered with extraordinary power, is an absorbing exploration of violence and trauma, choice and identity, and the journey to find oneself in the wild.
‘[A] novel of deep feeling’ Tanuj Solanki
Residents of a small town in Tamil Nadu are stunned by the beheading of a prominent man, whose head is missing from the scene of the crime. Everyone suspects Veni, a geography teacher at the local school, but she appears to have vanished from the face of the earth.
As the police gather testimonies from those who closely knew Veni, unsettling truths about this seemingly unknowable woman’s past gradually come to the fore. Where is Veni? The question haunts her family and other townsfolk, but the investigating officer has a different Who is Veni?
Where Mayflies Live Forever is as much a suspenseful mystery as it is a story about one woman’s self-discovery in the natural world, with a disillusioned but probing heart. Anupama Mohan’s astonishing literary debut, written in fiery yet sublime prose and rendered with extraordinary power, is an absorbing exploration of violence and trauma, choice and identity, and the journey to find oneself in the wild.
150 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2022
15 people are currently reading
875 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 19, 2023
A raw, visceral, intense and beautifully lyrical tale.
Check trigger warnings.
Anupama Mohan has crafted a very intense and raw story about a woman’s journey of healing and finding her power while showcasing the effects of trauma and injustice on the victim and the close acquaintances. The formatting and the structure of the story slowly reveals and colors a beautiful, vulnerable and at times fearful picture.
If you loved “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” by Ocean Vuong, then this book is for you. I am in absolute awe of the writing.
Check trigger warnings.
Anupama Mohan has crafted a very intense and raw story about a woman’s journey of healing and finding her power while showcasing the effects of trauma and injustice on the victim and the close acquaintances. The formatting and the structure of the story slowly reveals and colors a beautiful, vulnerable and at times fearful picture.
If you loved “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” by Ocean Vuong, then this book is for you. I am in absolute awe of the writing.
March 11, 2023
4.5 stars for me
Where Mayflies Live Forever will hit you hard about the ground realities of the world. When I first completed this book a few days back, my mind was brimming with a myriad of thoughts and emotions that took me a while to understand the context of this book. This book will stay with you for a little more while.
It is a story that is all too familiar yet when you read every page filled with emotions and trauma, it creates turmoil somewhere at the back of your mind and you feel like you wish you could do something about it. Mohan’s debut novel, Where Mayflies Live Forever is surrounded by the horrors of sexual abuse & violence done to a woman, limited not only to her but to her entire family. The suffering, trauma, hurt, and damage that it brings along with it goes on rooting deep for entire generations to come, ruining the family. Rich influential men get away without even a single scratch to them.
The book lands us right into the crime, horrifying scene, where Veni has been attacked by four men, and the incident has left her crippled for life. Her family, her husband, and Veni herself are left to deal with the damages incurred and pick up the pieces, their respect is in shambles in the eyes of society and is left as a subject of judgment. Slowly, she drifts apart from her husband because of her erratic and unsettling behavior and moods, where all her worst memories & nightmare come tumbling down on her altogether. When Veni and her family start collecting themselves back on the track and try to forget the past, it’s when the attack on Veni’s younger brother acts as the last nail in the coffin.
The younger brother’s incident shocks the entire family to the core, including Veni herself. From there it is a suspenseful mystery of one’s self-discovery in the real world of deceived yet longing dreams.
Mohan’s astounding literacy debut will leave an imprint on the readers' life, written with subtlety yet with strong and fiery narration and amazing power. This riveting prose is the exploration of various themes revolving around women and the subjugation that they are subjected to in their everyday lives. I will recommend this book to everyone out there and I hope to read more such amazing and powerful books by Anupama Mohan soon.
Where Mayflies Live Forever will hit you hard about the ground realities of the world. When I first completed this book a few days back, my mind was brimming with a myriad of thoughts and emotions that took me a while to understand the context of this book. This book will stay with you for a little more while.
It is a story that is all too familiar yet when you read every page filled with emotions and trauma, it creates turmoil somewhere at the back of your mind and you feel like you wish you could do something about it. Mohan’s debut novel, Where Mayflies Live Forever is surrounded by the horrors of sexual abuse & violence done to a woman, limited not only to her but to her entire family. The suffering, trauma, hurt, and damage that it brings along with it goes on rooting deep for entire generations to come, ruining the family. Rich influential men get away without even a single scratch to them.
The book lands us right into the crime, horrifying scene, where Veni has been attacked by four men, and the incident has left her crippled for life. Her family, her husband, and Veni herself are left to deal with the damages incurred and pick up the pieces, their respect is in shambles in the eyes of society and is left as a subject of judgment. Slowly, she drifts apart from her husband because of her erratic and unsettling behavior and moods, where all her worst memories & nightmare come tumbling down on her altogether. When Veni and her family start collecting themselves back on the track and try to forget the past, it’s when the attack on Veni’s younger brother acts as the last nail in the coffin.
The younger brother’s incident shocks the entire family to the core, including Veni herself. From there it is a suspenseful mystery of one’s self-discovery in the real world of deceived yet longing dreams.
Mohan’s astounding literacy debut will leave an imprint on the readers' life, written with subtlety yet with strong and fiery narration and amazing power. This riveting prose is the exploration of various themes revolving around women and the subjugation that they are subjected to in their everyday lives. I will recommend this book to everyone out there and I hope to read more such amazing and powerful books by Anupama Mohan soon.
August 11, 2024
Raw, Lyrical, Beautiful, Intense. That’s the story of Veni for us.
Veni, a girl from Tamil Nadu, has been raised with nothing but love. But one day four men decided that their hunger is more important than someone’s love and pride.
11 chapters that compromises testimony of every family member narrating that day to a police officer. The pain, the shame, the helpless, the anger felt by them.
With every single chapter you’ll experience a new kind of pain. The pain of a mother, the helpless of a father, the anger of two brothers, the agony of a grandmother. How many times they replayed that day and wanted things to be different.
🍂The story is painfully raw but not graphic. Graphic details do something to my brain which I don’t like. And I LIKED this book is a very very small statement!
The healing power of nature and also that of a woman, is a story that will stay with the reader a little more than they wish.
It is a kind of the book that you’ll appreciate more for the way it is written! Lyrical, poetic but easy to absorb.
Although I would advise you to read trigger warnings before reading the book but it is a MUST READ for every reader out there.
Veni, a girl from Tamil Nadu, has been raised with nothing but love. But one day four men decided that their hunger is more important than someone’s love and pride.
11 chapters that compromises testimony of every family member narrating that day to a police officer. The pain, the shame, the helpless, the anger felt by them.
With every single chapter you’ll experience a new kind of pain. The pain of a mother, the helpless of a father, the anger of two brothers, the agony of a grandmother. How many times they replayed that day and wanted things to be different.
🍂The story is painfully raw but not graphic. Graphic details do something to my brain which I don’t like. And I LIKED this book is a very very small statement!
The healing power of nature and also that of a woman, is a story that will stay with the reader a little more than they wish.
It is a kind of the book that you’ll appreciate more for the way it is written! Lyrical, poetic but easy to absorb.
Although I would advise you to read trigger warnings before reading the book but it is a MUST READ for every reader out there.
December 28, 2023
Where Mayflies Live Forever
Author - Anupama Mohan
Genre - Novel
Rating 5/5
I don't know what I was expecting through this book but I didn't think it would be like this, it is surely more than I was expecting. It is hunting, thought-provoking, a searing pain demonstrated in surreal musings, finally found its solace in self-awakening, but I think It's not enough entirely, it's a metaphor for peace and definitely not only for Veni but for us.
It needs to be taken by the public with more heart than just reading as an incident, it not merely talking about women's security in society, not as social issues, heart-touching words here actually meant to touch your "self" that are rarely touched by anyone else.
The book starts when most books find an ending. This book starts with the aftermath, and more than the aftermath the book searches for pieces of the wrecked human who was tortured, it's Veni, and wanted to sew every piece of the person in the thread. The commentary starts as everyone is telling about the horrendous incidents that happened with Veni from their perspective to the unnamed writer, later it is revealed that the unnamed collector is the investigating officer of this case, a case that happened after 4 years of that previous case.
The story is narrated by many voices, Veni's story; everyone telling here the story of Veni a girl who had beautiful hair, was raped and brutally tortured. From her mother to her husband, brother, grandmother, and father, everyone telling the truth, the horror story of her life, the trauma, how she changed after what happened to her. But this is not just a reminder to the protagonist nor a mere investigation of a murder case, it's also a search for Veni, more than an investigation of the case it's also searching who is Veni really, how was the girl Veni, how and why she ruined.
When musings bore pain it feels more painful; it's musings of lost and found. I liked the narrative from 6 Person's perspective about Veni, the cacophony of their voices created a patchwork about Veni and the lyrical dialogue bore the person and mysterious exploration of Veni beautifully.
Here poetic narratives celebrate femininity in an exquisite manner, It made me awe of a wonderful saga that is painted in pain.
The author used two types of language poetic and normal. The author used poetic language in the first half of the book and then when the investigation officer narrated it in easy language the plot became more clear and lucid.
Aching heart finally found tranquility in losing self-consciousness. Everything came to light when we reached the narrative of Veni.
It is not a story of a predator and the prey, it's also the searching role of everything and everyone in society. Social studies, stigma, bonding, love, the relationship between us, everything the author touched through the tragedy of Veni's life.
A surreal saga of horror and loneliness.
Author - Anupama Mohan
Genre - Novel
Rating 5/5
I don't know what I was expecting through this book but I didn't think it would be like this, it is surely more than I was expecting. It is hunting, thought-provoking, a searing pain demonstrated in surreal musings, finally found its solace in self-awakening, but I think It's not enough entirely, it's a metaphor for peace and definitely not only for Veni but for us.
It needs to be taken by the public with more heart than just reading as an incident, it not merely talking about women's security in society, not as social issues, heart-touching words here actually meant to touch your "self" that are rarely touched by anyone else.
The book starts when most books find an ending. This book starts with the aftermath, and more than the aftermath the book searches for pieces of the wrecked human who was tortured, it's Veni, and wanted to sew every piece of the person in the thread. The commentary starts as everyone is telling about the horrendous incidents that happened with Veni from their perspective to the unnamed writer, later it is revealed that the unnamed collector is the investigating officer of this case, a case that happened after 4 years of that previous case.
The story is narrated by many voices, Veni's story; everyone telling here the story of Veni a girl who had beautiful hair, was raped and brutally tortured. From her mother to her husband, brother, grandmother, and father, everyone telling the truth, the horror story of her life, the trauma, how she changed after what happened to her. But this is not just a reminder to the protagonist nor a mere investigation of a murder case, it's also a search for Veni, more than an investigation of the case it's also searching who is Veni really, how was the girl Veni, how and why she ruined.
When musings bore pain it feels more painful; it's musings of lost and found. I liked the narrative from 6 Person's perspective about Veni, the cacophony of their voices created a patchwork about Veni and the lyrical dialogue bore the person and mysterious exploration of Veni beautifully.
Here poetic narratives celebrate femininity in an exquisite manner, It made me awe of a wonderful saga that is painted in pain.
The author used two types of language poetic and normal. The author used poetic language in the first half of the book and then when the investigation officer narrated it in easy language the plot became more clear and lucid.
Aching heart finally found tranquility in losing self-consciousness. Everything came to light when we reached the narrative of Veni.
It is not a story of a predator and the prey, it's also the searching role of everything and everyone in society. Social studies, stigma, bonding, love, the relationship between us, everything the author touched through the tragedy of Veni's life.
A surreal saga of horror and loneliness.
Read
August 4, 2025It’s been a while that I finished this book - but I cannot stop thinking about it yet. The real life horror of how men think of strong, outspoken women as a ‘challenge’ sent chills down my spine.
February 25, 2025
Very poor narration of an intense story. The whole story can be summarized in 2 lines. But the whole point of the book was difficult to pin down and the author kept losing focus of the plot. A very incomplete book. Extremely disappointed to have spent 2 days on this book !
May 16, 2023
**TIMES OF INDIA**
Friday, 30 August 2002
PUDUKOTTAI: MAN BEHEADED, HEAD MISSING
On 29 August 2002, around 7 pm, a decapitated body of a man was found outside a local bar-cum-restaurant in the Pudukottai district of Tamil Nadu. According to the witnesses and police, the victim is identified as Sengaonoor Adhiban, an All India Tamilakam (AIT) party worker and a local school patron. The early witnesses of the gruesome act say that it was carried out by a woman who walked away with the chopped head to the local temple.
It is notable that 7 years ago, in 1988, a woman named Sriveni alleged that she was gang-raped and sexually assaulted by Adhiban and his four other associates. The honourable high court acquitted all of them in the year 2000 due to the lack of evidence corroborating her allegations. Sriveni worked as a geography teacher at the local school before absconding from Sittanavasal after her alleged traumatic assault. An FIR has been filed, and a search for the accused woman and the decapitated head has been launched.
**********
From the above-mentioned information, if you think I have given away too many spoilers, then you are mistaken. The book starts with details of the beheading and the sexual assault and why Veni must have done it if she had actually done so. Each chapter is a testimony from various characters around Veni and the politician. The prose beautifully explores womanhood beyond her relations as a mother, sister, wife and more.
Though the initial chapters already hint towards a specific kind of ending; the final chapters, where Inspector Asha takes over the investigation, add a thrilling twist to the story. As a Tamilian, I totally loved and was immersed in the local slang of the language. The topographic details were accurate and relatable, and the use of particular words made me feel close to the book and its characters. If you are a non-Tamilian, you might feel it slightly taking away the essence of the book. Nevertheless, it's the closest to an error-free description of Tamilian culture and habits if you wish to know more.
I was taken over by a crawling sensation under my skin while reading the gory details of Veni's gangrape. I almost cried at the helplessness of the situation, which also made me extremely furious. One might feel that specific background details are redundant, but those portions are the reason why this book exists. The final chapter was the closure I needed; it was so calming and reverberating. A much-needed book that is necessary to project the social reality of abuse of power and its implication.
Do watch out for trigger warnings: physical abuse, rape
My review: 5/5
Friday, 30 August 2002
PUDUKOTTAI: MAN BEHEADED, HEAD MISSING
On 29 August 2002, around 7 pm, a decapitated body of a man was found outside a local bar-cum-restaurant in the Pudukottai district of Tamil Nadu. According to the witnesses and police, the victim is identified as Sengaonoor Adhiban, an All India Tamilakam (AIT) party worker and a local school patron. The early witnesses of the gruesome act say that it was carried out by a woman who walked away with the chopped head to the local temple.
It is notable that 7 years ago, in 1988, a woman named Sriveni alleged that she was gang-raped and sexually assaulted by Adhiban and his four other associates. The honourable high court acquitted all of them in the year 2000 due to the lack of evidence corroborating her allegations. Sriveni worked as a geography teacher at the local school before absconding from Sittanavasal after her alleged traumatic assault. An FIR has been filed, and a search for the accused woman and the decapitated head has been launched.
**********
From the above-mentioned information, if you think I have given away too many spoilers, then you are mistaken. The book starts with details of the beheading and the sexual assault and why Veni must have done it if she had actually done so. Each chapter is a testimony from various characters around Veni and the politician. The prose beautifully explores womanhood beyond her relations as a mother, sister, wife and more.
Though the initial chapters already hint towards a specific kind of ending; the final chapters, where Inspector Asha takes over the investigation, add a thrilling twist to the story. As a Tamilian, I totally loved and was immersed in the local slang of the language. The topographic details were accurate and relatable, and the use of particular words made me feel close to the book and its characters. If you are a non-Tamilian, you might feel it slightly taking away the essence of the book. Nevertheless, it's the closest to an error-free description of Tamilian culture and habits if you wish to know more.
I was taken over by a crawling sensation under my skin while reading the gory details of Veni's gangrape. I almost cried at the helplessness of the situation, which also made me extremely furious. One might feel that specific background details are redundant, but those portions are the reason why this book exists. The final chapter was the closure I needed; it was so calming and reverberating. A much-needed book that is necessary to project the social reality of abuse of power and its implication.
Do watch out for trigger warnings: physical abuse, rape
My review: 5/5
August 15, 2023
Anupama Mohan's debut novel, "Where Mayflies Live Forever," presents an enigmatic tale that seamlessly weaves suspense, self-discovery, and the intricate interplay between nature and the human psyche. Set against the backdrop of a small town in Tamil Nadu, the story unfolds with the shocking beheading of a prominent individual, leaving the community in disarray and suspicion. The missing head from the crime scene immediately casts a chilling aura, and the prime suspect, the elusive geography teacher Veni, adds a layer of intrigue that propels the narrative forward.
Author's narrative prowess shines through as the story unfurls, intricately drawing readers into the perplexing mystery. As the police meticulously gather testimonies from those who were closely connected to Veni, the novel deftly reveals the nuanced complexities of her past, gradually dismantling the veneer of the unknown that shrouds her. The dual quest to find both the whereabouts and the true identity of Veni creates an engaging tension that compels readers to traverse deeper into the heart of the narrative.
Author's prose is a revelation in itself – fiery yet sublime, it strikes a harmonious balance between vivid description and emotional resonance. The author's skillful depiction of the natural world serves as more than a mere backdrop; it emerges as a character in its own right, mirroring the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the tumultuous emotions that come with it.
"Where Mayflies Live Forever" is not merely a mystery novel; it's a profound exploration of violence, trauma, choice, and the intricate tapestry of identity. Anupama Mohan delves unflinchingly into the human psyche, peeling away layers of vulnerability, resilience, and the yearning for self-understanding. The juxtaposition of the suspenseful crime plot with Veni's journey through the wilderness creates a narrative synergy that elevates the book beyond genre constraints.
In her remarkable debut, Anupama Mohan demonstrates a rare talent for storytelling that keeps readers engrossed while grappling with profound themes. This novel is an exquisite testament to the power of literary fiction to captivate, provoke thought, and resonate deeply with the human experience. "Where Mayflies Live Forever" is a compelling invitation to immerse oneself in a world of mystery and self-exploration, masterfully crafted by a promising new voice in literature.
Author's narrative prowess shines through as the story unfurls, intricately drawing readers into the perplexing mystery. As the police meticulously gather testimonies from those who were closely connected to Veni, the novel deftly reveals the nuanced complexities of her past, gradually dismantling the veneer of the unknown that shrouds her. The dual quest to find both the whereabouts and the true identity of Veni creates an engaging tension that compels readers to traverse deeper into the heart of the narrative.
Author's prose is a revelation in itself – fiery yet sublime, it strikes a harmonious balance between vivid description and emotional resonance. The author's skillful depiction of the natural world serves as more than a mere backdrop; it emerges as a character in its own right, mirroring the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the tumultuous emotions that come with it.
"Where Mayflies Live Forever" is not merely a mystery novel; it's a profound exploration of violence, trauma, choice, and the intricate tapestry of identity. Anupama Mohan delves unflinchingly into the human psyche, peeling away layers of vulnerability, resilience, and the yearning for self-understanding. The juxtaposition of the suspenseful crime plot with Veni's journey through the wilderness creates a narrative synergy that elevates the book beyond genre constraints.
In her remarkable debut, Anupama Mohan demonstrates a rare talent for storytelling that keeps readers engrossed while grappling with profound themes. This novel is an exquisite testament to the power of literary fiction to captivate, provoke thought, and resonate deeply with the human experience. "Where Mayflies Live Forever" is a compelling invitation to immerse oneself in a world of mystery and self-exploration, masterfully crafted by a promising new voice in literature.
May 22, 2025
This book is beautifully written—and achingly sad. The prose flows like poetry, interwoven with actual verses that deepen the emotional resonance of the story.
At its heart is Veni, a woman trying to rebuild her life after surviving a horrific act of violence. Then, suddenly, she disappears. The timing is striking: the main accused in her case is found decapitated, and witnesses claim to have seen a woman carrying the severed head. What follows is a layered narrative told through the perspectives of those closest to Veni—her parents, siblings, friend, husband, and grandmother. Each offers their own memories of who she was and how the trauma altered her forever. No one knows where she has gone.
We also get to know about her close bond with her grandmother, a respected midwife, and their shared history of caring for women. There’s a powerful contrast between how they helped others and how, when Veni needed support, her own family faltered.
We’re then introduced to Veni’s imagined (I think) sanctuary—a cave where she has recreated a world filled with comforting elements from her past, particularly her childhood, when life was still untouched by violence. This space becomes a metaphorical refuge, possibly symbolizing a mental retreat or a reimagining of safety. ( I am not confident about this)
The narrative also follows the investigating ACP, who is painfully aware of the systemic failures within law enforcement but remains committed to doing her job with integrity.
The story remains open-ended: we’re left uncertain whether Veni was responsible for the murder, and what she ultimately chooses as she prepares to leave her sanctuary.
The braid adorned with flowers and mayflies is Veni’s beautiful hair—repeatedly described throughout the book—and the mayflies she encounters in her sanctuary, which serve as a poignant reminder of life’s transience.
Tamil words are scattered throughout the book, but non-Tamil readers will find the context and occasional explanations more than sufficient to follow along.
A gentle note of caution: for those who have experienced trauma or violence, this book may be triggering. But it is also a powerful, poetic, and deeply empathetic exploration of pain, memory, and resilience.
At its heart is Veni, a woman trying to rebuild her life after surviving a horrific act of violence. Then, suddenly, she disappears. The timing is striking: the main accused in her case is found decapitated, and witnesses claim to have seen a woman carrying the severed head. What follows is a layered narrative told through the perspectives of those closest to Veni—her parents, siblings, friend, husband, and grandmother. Each offers their own memories of who she was and how the trauma altered her forever. No one knows where she has gone.
We also get to know about her close bond with her grandmother, a respected midwife, and their shared history of caring for women. There’s a powerful contrast between how they helped others and how, when Veni needed support, her own family faltered.
We’re then introduced to Veni’s imagined (I think) sanctuary—a cave where she has recreated a world filled with comforting elements from her past, particularly her childhood, when life was still untouched by violence. This space becomes a metaphorical refuge, possibly symbolizing a mental retreat or a reimagining of safety. ( I am not confident about this)
The narrative also follows the investigating ACP, who is painfully aware of the systemic failures within law enforcement but remains committed to doing her job with integrity.
The story remains open-ended: we’re left uncertain whether Veni was responsible for the murder, and what she ultimately chooses as she prepares to leave her sanctuary.
The braid adorned with flowers and mayflies is Veni’s beautiful hair—repeatedly described throughout the book—and the mayflies she encounters in her sanctuary, which serve as a poignant reminder of life’s transience.
Tamil words are scattered throughout the book, but non-Tamil readers will find the context and occasional explanations more than sufficient to follow along.
A gentle note of caution: for those who have experienced trauma or violence, this book may be triggering. But it is also a powerful, poetic, and deeply empathetic exploration of pain, memory, and resilience.
February 28, 2023
Fantastic is one word that could pin as the best adjective for this debut novel by Anupama Mohan. It was unputdownable from the start to the end, the search for finding who Veni was, knowing the ways people took to know who she was and ultimately uncovering the truth about her. This was one such book that bugged me, frustrated me, infuriated me, made me sad, and also tried to lift me out of the impending gloom that surrounded Veni's story. Throughout the story, the writing and the style was so ingenious, with the Tamil words that were not just words but emotions instilled at the right places. Being from the same state, I can understand the emotion behind a child calling her granny “atha” rather than just a granny.
The writing unveiling the southernmost part of Tamil Nadu, the scenic and surreal descriptions of places that Veni goes , the caves, especially the underground ones, temples, and houses built in the old styles are so vivid. She also included several simple poems in her narration which was so relatable and calming.
The quagmire of pain and suffering went through because of sexual violence reminds us of how women are treated in a so called progressive society. The trauma that the family suffers, exploring the painful vehemence of the subjects around the “victim” (don’t even know why I am using this word, but the book is written in such a way that Veni or her relatives does not consider her a victim) is critical to how the story is taken forward. Like peeling an onion, you understand the layers of who veni was from the surviving members. The transformation of Veni from an enchanting personality to an avenging goddess, discovering how she lost her voice and gained it all together is so commendable. This is a well-penned story of grief, loss, and the gray areas of justice and humanity that has to be brought to light. I highly recommend you read this book.
Please be wary of triggers such as rape, and gruesome inhuman acts by heinous rapists before you
pick this one.
The writing unveiling the southernmost part of Tamil Nadu, the scenic and surreal descriptions of places that Veni goes , the caves, especially the underground ones, temples, and houses built in the old styles are so vivid. She also included several simple poems in her narration which was so relatable and calming.
The quagmire of pain and suffering went through because of sexual violence reminds us of how women are treated in a so called progressive society. The trauma that the family suffers, exploring the painful vehemence of the subjects around the “victim” (don’t even know why I am using this word, but the book is written in such a way that Veni or her relatives does not consider her a victim) is critical to how the story is taken forward. Like peeling an onion, you understand the layers of who veni was from the surviving members. The transformation of Veni from an enchanting personality to an avenging goddess, discovering how she lost her voice and gained it all together is so commendable. This is a well-penned story of grief, loss, and the gray areas of justice and humanity that has to be brought to light. I highly recommend you read this book.
Please be wary of triggers such as rape, and gruesome inhuman acts by heinous rapists before you
pick this one.
November 6, 2023
3.5 stars round up
.
The era of giving back.
It's 2002 and we are seeing resistance all around us. It's about time that the oppressed start giving it back to their oppressor. Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. Let the world go blind, it anyway has been blind to the oppression faced by certain sections in our society.
News comes from a small town in Tamil Nadu in India that a man is beheaded & his head is missing from the spot of crime. A woman named Veni is the prime accused who was seen going towards a temple in the town with the decapitated head of the man. Horrifying, you would say? What happened to Veni was injustice. What she allegedly did was...was not justice, but it could have set her free.
"A violation is for all time; like childbirth, we carry its mark for life." p.20
The book consists of 11 chapters each said from the POV of people who are part of Sriveni's life - Her parents, siblings, her friend, her husband, one of the 4 men who in 1998 brought hell to Veni's life. Gender & class inequality, struggles of a working class family to get justice in the world's largest democracy, journey through trauma are some of the themes dealt with in this novel. We see the unfurling of the protagonist who is this strong woman born and raised in the cradle of nature, who since her childhood days has seen rough days & physical illnesses & miscarriages etc, but the final nail in the coffin was what happened with her in 1998.
The compact size of the book is what I admired the most about this book, although, in 200 pages a little more of social commentaries could have been squeezed. The prose was not extremely pleasing but the part verse part prose factor was unique. The POV of Veni's known ones is so filled with rage and helplessness, you can literally see through it, which is a plus point.
It is a story about one woman's self-discovery in the natural world and the reader's revelation of hell.
.
The era of giving back.
It's 2002 and we are seeing resistance all around us. It's about time that the oppressed start giving it back to their oppressor. Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. Let the world go blind, it anyway has been blind to the oppression faced by certain sections in our society.
News comes from a small town in Tamil Nadu in India that a man is beheaded & his head is missing from the spot of crime. A woman named Veni is the prime accused who was seen going towards a temple in the town with the decapitated head of the man. Horrifying, you would say? What happened to Veni was injustice. What she allegedly did was...was not justice, but it could have set her free.
"A violation is for all time; like childbirth, we carry its mark for life." p.20
The book consists of 11 chapters each said from the POV of people who are part of Sriveni's life - Her parents, siblings, her friend, her husband, one of the 4 men who in 1998 brought hell to Veni's life. Gender & class inequality, struggles of a working class family to get justice in the world's largest democracy, journey through trauma are some of the themes dealt with in this novel. We see the unfurling of the protagonist who is this strong woman born and raised in the cradle of nature, who since her childhood days has seen rough days & physical illnesses & miscarriages etc, but the final nail in the coffin was what happened with her in 1998.
The compact size of the book is what I admired the most about this book, although, in 200 pages a little more of social commentaries could have been squeezed. The prose was not extremely pleasing but the part verse part prose factor was unique. The POV of Veni's known ones is so filled with rage and helplessness, you can literally see through it, which is a plus point.
It is a story about one woman's self-discovery in the natural world and the reader's revelation of hell.
July 13, 2024
Anupama Mohan’s literary debut is a solemn and hard-hitting premise that exudes a suspenseful trance through its choicest words, portraying visceral emotions in a profound capacity.
Set in a small town of Tamil Nadu, this is the story of Veni, victim of a brutal sexual assault, accused for beheading a prominent man in the village.
Veni, lives through the horrors and trauma of the unfortunate event which changed her fate along with her family’s, a happy home once now houses miserable faces of those who witnessed her bud from a girl into an enigmatic woman with an enchanting charm. One who is perceptive, accomplished with the “siddha” to heal but also candidly indifferent to those who desire her attention.
The plot unveils Veni’s life and personality through incidents that lead to the disaster, testimonies of those near and dear to her or those relevant to the case, each have a frank say and between these accounts and pages we discover Veni, discovering herself.
A question of fate or the male greed to destroy in the name of pride, power, lust or vengeance at the cost of a woman’s life? The reader oscillates between these two contrary narratives between the pages of the story.
To write about such henious acts performed by man in a straightforward yet emotive tone is a commendable feat, while maintaing a gripping plot.
Anupama Mohan has penned a story of grief, loss, violence and reminiscence, of a system that time and again fails humanity and justice; reality for many unfortunate women and their families today, apparently reminding that society needs real and progressive change.
TW: Sexual assault
Verdict: Go ahead if the trigger warning doesn’t disturb you. The story and writing are brilliantly crafted.
Set in a small town of Tamil Nadu, this is the story of Veni, victim of a brutal sexual assault, accused for beheading a prominent man in the village.
Veni, lives through the horrors and trauma of the unfortunate event which changed her fate along with her family’s, a happy home once now houses miserable faces of those who witnessed her bud from a girl into an enigmatic woman with an enchanting charm. One who is perceptive, accomplished with the “siddha” to heal but also candidly indifferent to those who desire her attention.
The plot unveils Veni’s life and personality through incidents that lead to the disaster, testimonies of those near and dear to her or those relevant to the case, each have a frank say and between these accounts and pages we discover Veni, discovering herself.
A question of fate or the male greed to destroy in the name of pride, power, lust or vengeance at the cost of a woman’s life? The reader oscillates between these two contrary narratives between the pages of the story.
To write about such henious acts performed by man in a straightforward yet emotive tone is a commendable feat, while maintaing a gripping plot.
Anupama Mohan has penned a story of grief, loss, violence and reminiscence, of a system that time and again fails humanity and justice; reality for many unfortunate women and their families today, apparently reminding that society needs real and progressive change.
TW: Sexual assault
Verdict: Go ahead if the trigger warning doesn’t disturb you. The story and writing are brilliantly crafted.
December 2, 2023
A literary debut with a thriller that moves between criminology and ecology, author Anupama Joshi’s complex tale highlights the importance of reclamation in all senses of the word. The USP is that it tackles crime and environment in one go, which isn’t an easy thing to do. It also gives an idea on how time and solitude can heal barren lands and minds at the same time. The beautifully designed cover of this hardback is an added attraction.
The noteworthy parts are about the ancient practices, that is birthing by Veni’s midwife grandmother. The focus on ancient healing techniques, which also work in Veni’s favour, as she tries to protect herself from physical degradation after the attack. A captivating portion at the beginning is the ancient hair ritual of oiling, scenting and braiding.
Another fascinating aspect is the depth of environment consciousness. The author describes the ecosystem in a lyrical manner. She gives nature a life and Veni eventually taps into its healing power. She becomes stronger, discovers the doline ecology and tells us about the invisible world of trees, caves and fresh water systems. She talks about nature’s rejuvenating ability and how the terrain reclaims its own. Mohan has mentioned many plants and their healing properties, even some lost ones. She also takes the readers inside a barren doline ecosystem, where tiny microorganisms thrive and strive to recreate an abundant ecosystem, not worried about time and space, just doing the work nature has ordained them for. The mayflies form a part of that ecosystem, as do the edible berries, mushrooms.
The noteworthy parts are about the ancient practices, that is birthing by Veni’s midwife grandmother. The focus on ancient healing techniques, which also work in Veni’s favour, as she tries to protect herself from physical degradation after the attack. A captivating portion at the beginning is the ancient hair ritual of oiling, scenting and braiding.
Another fascinating aspect is the depth of environment consciousness. The author describes the ecosystem in a lyrical manner. She gives nature a life and Veni eventually taps into its healing power. She becomes stronger, discovers the doline ecology and tells us about the invisible world of trees, caves and fresh water systems. She talks about nature’s rejuvenating ability and how the terrain reclaims its own. Mohan has mentioned many plants and their healing properties, even some lost ones. She also takes the readers inside a barren doline ecosystem, where tiny microorganisms thrive and strive to recreate an abundant ecosystem, not worried about time and space, just doing the work nature has ordained them for. The mayflies form a part of that ecosystem, as do the edible berries, mushrooms.
February 6, 2023
𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙛𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙇𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙮 𝘼𝙣𝙪𝙥𝙖𝙢𝙖 𝙈𝙤𝙝𝙖𝙣
🫴🏻Ever wondered what makes people to change !? Yes, like every other process there should be a driving force behind Change, right !? There are several factors that play a major role in this, but the most common one is Trauma.
🫴🏻 Trauma activates a number of emotions inside a person ranging from anger to helplessness, self pity to adrenaline rush, in some cases it lead to self examination also.
🫴🏻 Understanding a person is not easy that's why we created Psychology. Studying a Normal person is quite manageable while in the case of a trauma-stricken person, it becomes vulnerable and uncertain.
🫴🏻 The book is fabricated alongside a story of Sexual Assualt of a girl, which swaps from her usual self after the post traumatic experience and denial in justice. It has an Enthralling, Psychological and Introspective theme.
📌The author has done great job in portraying the events and characters from her family around her. I liked the way all the themes blend smoothly and how the story unfolds. It's a short read with a lucid translation.
📌There is Significantly more usage of Tamil words, which makes sense as the story has been set in the parts of Southern Region of India. An Essence of Poetry can also be seen which vividly showcases the depth of emotions.
📌I felt several emotions whilst reading it and also somethings hits hard, some can also feel agitation with the sense of helplessness and despair. But there was also a sense of responsibility. If you agree with the above, then this might be a good fit for your Bookshelf.
🫴🏻Ever wondered what makes people to change !? Yes, like every other process there should be a driving force behind Change, right !? There are several factors that play a major role in this, but the most common one is Trauma.
🫴🏻 Trauma activates a number of emotions inside a person ranging from anger to helplessness, self pity to adrenaline rush, in some cases it lead to self examination also.
🫴🏻 Understanding a person is not easy that's why we created Psychology. Studying a Normal person is quite manageable while in the case of a trauma-stricken person, it becomes vulnerable and uncertain.
🫴🏻 The book is fabricated alongside a story of Sexual Assualt of a girl, which swaps from her usual self after the post traumatic experience and denial in justice. It has an Enthralling, Psychological and Introspective theme.
📌The author has done great job in portraying the events and characters from her family around her. I liked the way all the themes blend smoothly and how the story unfolds. It's a short read with a lucid translation.
📌There is Significantly more usage of Tamil words, which makes sense as the story has been set in the parts of Southern Region of India. An Essence of Poetry can also be seen which vividly showcases the depth of emotions.
📌I felt several emotions whilst reading it and also somethings hits hard, some can also feel agitation with the sense of helplessness and despair. But there was also a sense of responsibility. If you agree with the above, then this might be a good fit for your Bookshelf.
August 2, 2023
🍁 • 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 • 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐘𝐅𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 • 🍁
WHERE MAYFLIES LIVE FOREVER by ANUPAMA MOHAN is an astonishing lyrical tale about Veni, gang raped by four men. But somehow this is also a story about her family. The adolescents that Veni shares with her granny are so close to our hearts as if we share the same bonding.
Veni with her father, mother, and two brothers is a family woman who wants to share her life peacefully with her husband and her unborn child. But here tragedy happens which takes a venomous turn on!
What I liked the most is her father's confession. He says "𝐀 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐭" which is surely true. Veni's journey from her childhood to her motherhood is translated through these lines :
"𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐬𝐨 𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞?
...
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬!"
But her journey doesn't end here... It ends with revenge. This path sounds like our own... As if we've gone through this very path before. But with Veni, this is a new one.
So, this is my ⭐⭐⭐. ✨✨✨✨/🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 reading. Because sometimes I find it lengthy, sometimes it is exaggerated.
WHERE MAYFLIES LIVE FOREVER by ANUPAMA MOHAN is an astonishing lyrical tale about Veni, gang raped by four men. But somehow this is also a story about her family. The adolescents that Veni shares with her granny are so close to our hearts as if we share the same bonding.
Veni with her father, mother, and two brothers is a family woman who wants to share her life peacefully with her husband and her unborn child. But here tragedy happens which takes a venomous turn on!
What I liked the most is her father's confession. He says "𝐀 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐭" which is surely true. Veni's journey from her childhood to her motherhood is translated through these lines :
"𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐬𝐨 𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞?
...
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬!"
But her journey doesn't end here... It ends with revenge. This path sounds like our own... As if we've gone through this very path before. But with Veni, this is a new one.
So, this is my ⭐⭐⭐. ✨✨✨✨/🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 reading. Because sometimes I find it lengthy, sometimes it is exaggerated.
June 24, 2024
I had been warned by a fellow book reader that its going to break me, n oh you were right!
The storyline is about a crime scene investigation of a body with a missing head. While many suspect the protagonist (Veni) behind this hideous act, she is nowhere to be found. As the inquiry proceeds, brow-raising information comes to light that makes the officer in charge scrutinize the actual identity of Veni, rather than her whereabouts.
You wouldn't believe this is a debut author's work! The narrative is captivating and despite being a murder mystery plotline, there is a hint of literary fiction subdued in the storytelling. The underlying narrative of human nature, trauma and introspection commands the readers to speculate everything twice.
Besides all this, the emotional depth addressed in the book was the cream layer making it rich with novel reading aspects of thrilling incidents and gripping twists. If you do enjoy character-driven books, layered in human ambiguity, I recommend this to you.
The storyline is about a crime scene investigation of a body with a missing head. While many suspect the protagonist (Veni) behind this hideous act, she is nowhere to be found. As the inquiry proceeds, brow-raising information comes to light that makes the officer in charge scrutinize the actual identity of Veni, rather than her whereabouts.
You wouldn't believe this is a debut author's work! The narrative is captivating and despite being a murder mystery plotline, there is a hint of literary fiction subdued in the storytelling. The underlying narrative of human nature, trauma and introspection commands the readers to speculate everything twice.
Besides all this, the emotional depth addressed in the book was the cream layer making it rich with novel reading aspects of thrilling incidents and gripping twists. If you do enjoy character-driven books, layered in human ambiguity, I recommend this to you.
June 13, 2024
Where Mayflies Live Forever - Anupama Mohan | 5 ⭐️
This is so not your typical crime thriller. It explores so much more than that through the aftermath of a brutal assault on a woman named Veni. The story begins not with the crime itself, but with the shockwaves it sends through a small town in Tamil Nadu. Veni, the geography teacher, has vanished, leaving behind a trail of shattered lives and unanswered questions. We hear from her family members, each grappling with the trauma in their own way. Their testimonies paint a picture of how she was once lively but now consumed by darkness. The investigating officer, too, becomes entangled in the mystery, not just seeking the culprit but also wanting to understand Veni herself.
This book is a must read read for those of you who appreciate thrillers and literary fiction that delves into social issues. Brace yourselves for a story that is both disturbing and thought-provoking. Definitely not a light read, but one that will stay with you. 🫢
This is so not your typical crime thriller. It explores so much more than that through the aftermath of a brutal assault on a woman named Veni. The story begins not with the crime itself, but with the shockwaves it sends through a small town in Tamil Nadu. Veni, the geography teacher, has vanished, leaving behind a trail of shattered lives and unanswered questions. We hear from her family members, each grappling with the trauma in their own way. Their testimonies paint a picture of how she was once lively but now consumed by darkness. The investigating officer, too, becomes entangled in the mystery, not just seeking the culprit but also wanting to understand Veni herself.
This book is a must read read for those of you who appreciate thrillers and literary fiction that delves into social issues. Brace yourselves for a story that is both disturbing and thought-provoking. Definitely not a light read, but one that will stay with you. 🫢
December 29, 2024
It was December 2012 when India woke up to the news of a horrific gang rape of a young girl. The woman passed away due to fatal injuries inflicted on her.
Where Mayflies live forever is a story of a gang rape, but the protagonist survives. But she loses the life she lived anyway.
The main rapist is killed and beheaded, his head missing from the scene of crime. Veni is the prime suspect.
The description of the rape is gut wrenching. In the form of a case diary where the police officer investigates Veni's family members, the narration includes the thoughts of the family members about Veni and the crime, the family dynamics that changed forever.
It is a forceful narrative but is not entirely a harsh truth. The protagonist visits and ultimately surrenders in the secret world of underground caves, creating a world of her own.
It's an intense book which will stay with you for a long long time.
Where Mayflies live forever is a story of a gang rape, but the protagonist survives. But she loses the life she lived anyway.
The main rapist is killed and beheaded, his head missing from the scene of crime. Veni is the prime suspect.
The description of the rape is gut wrenching. In the form of a case diary where the police officer investigates Veni's family members, the narration includes the thoughts of the family members about Veni and the crime, the family dynamics that changed forever.
It is a forceful narrative but is not entirely a harsh truth. The protagonist visits and ultimately surrenders in the secret world of underground caves, creating a world of her own.
It's an intense book which will stay with you for a long long time.
April 19, 2025
4.5 stars
Whew, this one hit hard. It took me a bit to get used to the writing style, but once I did, I was fully immersed. The story is heavy and emotional in the best way possible.
Each character's account of what happened to Veni is powerful and painful—raw portraits of grief, love, and survival. I loved how her family spoke of her with so much pride, both as a kid and as she grew up. You feel how deeply she was loved, which makes the whole thing even more heartbreaking.
The book explores the aftermath of what happened to Veni and how it shattered her family. One of the most moving aspects was how her memories of helping Aatha deliver babies — something she learned at a young age — became a quiet source of strength later on. Those lessons, combined with the healing presence of nature, slowly guide her toward piecing herself back together.
It’s intense and hits hard, but it’s the kind of story that really sticks with you.
Whew, this one hit hard. It took me a bit to get used to the writing style, but once I did, I was fully immersed. The story is heavy and emotional in the best way possible.
Each character's account of what happened to Veni is powerful and painful—raw portraits of grief, love, and survival. I loved how her family spoke of her with so much pride, both as a kid and as she grew up. You feel how deeply she was loved, which makes the whole thing even more heartbreaking.
The book explores the aftermath of what happened to Veni and how it shattered her family. One of the most moving aspects was how her memories of helping Aatha deliver babies — something she learned at a young age — became a quiet source of strength later on. Those lessons, combined with the healing presence of nature, slowly guide her toward piecing herself back together.
It’s intense and hits hard, but it’s the kind of story that really sticks with you.
July 5, 2025
Last week, I read Where Mayflies Live Forever by Anupama Mohan. It’s her debut novel, centered on Veni—a schoolteacher from a loving family in Tamil Nadu—who is gang raped by a powerful man in her village while she is four months pregnant.
It’s a heartbreaking premise, and the story has moments of real power. I know many readers connected deeply with it.
But for me, it didn’t quite land. The editing felt loose, and the narrative was stretched far beyond what it needed. By the final chapters, I was emotionally exhausted—not just by the content, but by the effort it took to stay with the story.
I cared for the characters, but there was too much fluff hiding the heart of it all.
Recommend: Not Really
It’s a heartbreaking premise, and the story has moments of real power. I know many readers connected deeply with it.
But for me, it didn’t quite land. The editing felt loose, and the narrative was stretched far beyond what it needed. By the final chapters, I was emotionally exhausted—not just by the content, but by the effort it took to stay with the story.
I cared for the characters, but there was too much fluff hiding the heart of it all.
Recommend: Not Really
May 31, 2024
The solid research the author has done, especially on the ways of Tamil society, despite being a Malayali brought up in Delhi is mind blowing.She has represented Tamil society accurately, including the smallest of details. She has not only sensitively depicted sexual violation and struggles of women but also portrayed the various types of men who exist in society. The highlight of the book is the non-linear, back and forth format of the story. The outstanding ending is the icing on the cake which is this outstanding piece of fiction that feels so real it feels wrong to call it fiction .
June 30, 2025
⚠️ Please check the trigger warnings of the book
Anupama Mohan crafted an intense, evocative, and lyrically written novel Where Mayflies Live Forever. At its heart is Veni, a young woman raised in an environment of love and care. Her life takes a devastating turn when she becomes a victim of rape a gruesome event that not only alters her own trajectory but profoundly impacts her family. The Author explores the deep emotional and psychological trauma that follows, and the harsh realities of society and the enduring ripple effects of such acts.
Anupama Mohan crafted an intense, evocative, and lyrically written novel Where Mayflies Live Forever. At its heart is Veni, a young woman raised in an environment of love and care. Her life takes a devastating turn when she becomes a victim of rape a gruesome event that not only alters her own trajectory but profoundly impacts her family. The Author explores the deep emotional and psychological trauma that follows, and the harsh realities of society and the enduring ripple effects of such acts.
March 31, 2023
I picked this book up at a friend who had recently been to India and it was unputdownable from the first chapter itself. Mohan's prose is like poetry and at the same time, she writes tautly, weighing every word for its sensual and intellectual impact. A craft-y story about a woman's revenge, this is also a tale of a victim turning survivor. Radical, feminist, poetic, and surprisingly ecological, the novel is an ambitious debut. Unmissable, unforgettable, original!
October 4, 2024
2.75/5⭐️
I had high expectations with this book but it didn’t live up to my expectations. I had a very strong urge to dnf it throughout the reading process because so many things were very over exaggerated and i didn’t liked the writing style. There were so many Tamil words throughout the book that i had to google them constantly. The liked the fact that author has written the pov of a rape victims family. I wanted more of Veni’s perspective of things. Overall the book lacked the emotions that i was looking for.
I had high expectations with this book but it didn’t live up to my expectations. I had a very strong urge to dnf it throughout the reading process because so many things were very over exaggerated and i didn’t liked the writing style. There were so many Tamil words throughout the book that i had to google them constantly. The liked the fact that author has written the pov of a rape victims family. I wanted more of Veni’s perspective of things. Overall the book lacked the emotions that i was looking for.
January 12, 2025
It’s a story of a local politician who has been murdered and his head is missing from his body. People claims to see a woman who is going into the jungle with his beheaded head in her hands. Police is investigating her whereabouts but nobody knows where she has gone.
As interesting the plot sounds as heartbreaking it is. The story keeps getting depressing and sad with revelations. I like the story but it feels more heavily written with dark and chaotic elements. Don’t read if you’re not in a good mood.
As interesting the plot sounds as heartbreaking it is. The story keeps getting depressing and sad with revelations. I like the story but it feels more heavily written with dark and chaotic elements. Don’t read if you’re not in a good mood.
August 20, 2024
Read the book on a flight. Small book, quick read. Raw and intense, very well written. Talks about unspeakable trauma and healing from it. I thought the ending could have been more fleshed out but definitely a beautifully written book.
June 29, 2024
honestly, idk what the hype is about. my favourite page from this book was the last page.
August 4, 2025
Very powerful and important messaging but the format of this book being more essay than narrative didn’t work for me.
September 9, 2025
this book kept me
November 23, 2024
The book is a bit haunting and stays with you for a while. The plot is not something unknown - sexual abuse on a woman but the way it is expressed in the book makes you feel it more in your core. It tells a story of impact a tragedy has on not just the victim but the entire family - a mother wanting a normal life for a child, a father questioning his upbringing, siblings oscillating between rage and protectiveness. It lets you see a tragic event from multiple perspectives and the number of emotions running are numerous.
I especially liked this book because it does not end with moral high ground or forgiveness in the face of tragedy. It ends with the protagonist finding justice one way or another on her path of self discovery
I especially liked this book because it does not end with moral high ground or forgiveness in the face of tragedy. It ends with the protagonist finding justice one way or another on her path of self discovery
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