Title: Home for Chirappu
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: Ariel Tachna
Genre: Paranormal
Length: Novella (53 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: Nikhilesh (Nik) Sharma hasn’t been home to Alappuzha, India, since he came out to his family ten years ago. Now that his relationship with them is less strained, he’s bringing his boyfriend Trent along to celebrate the winter holidays. As excited as he is to see everyone again, he worries the foreign culture, religious differences, and disapproval might shock Trent.
At the same time, Trent worries Nik’s big, close-knit family won’t accept an American—much less a man—as Nik’s partner and that his presence will impede the otherwise happy reunion. Whether the trip leads to misunderstandings that will drive them apart or to a new understanding that will draw them closer than ever, it’s sure to be an experience they’ll never forget.
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.
ISBN: 978-1-63216-737-8
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5833
Reviewer: Prime
Review: I really didn’t know what I was expecting with this one and I was too lazy to look up what “chirappu” is. This is a contemporary tale about Nik (really Nikhelish) and Trent, travelling to India where Trent is to meet Nik’s family. The inclusion of a glossary at the end of the story on some of the Indian terms is great.
This story is packed with description of Trent and Nik’s surrounds in India, along with all the Indian food (makes me want to eat Indian food or perhaps even watch a Bollywood movie!). The story itself is a fascinating look at the overwhelming idea of meeting an entire family at one celebration.
I’m not sure how liberal India is in terms of homosexuality but from the start I did wonder how Nik’s family would act, besides his awesome favourite aunty (I’m sure we all got one of those) and one of Nik’s sisters. But there is a nice explanation as to some of Nik’s history with his family, given to Trent by the favourite Aunty. Nik also has a Christian friend (and other neighbours), so there is a jumble of traditions include in this fabulous story.
Trent and Nik are a wonderful couple and play well off each other. The story is very sweet and full of various traditions; it’s nice to see them try to integrate their lives and families. Generally, this is a feel good holiday tale, just perfect for some light Christmas reading.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com*