I found it really hard to pen down my thoughts to write this review. People have either loved or hated this book, but I feel like both and neither at the same time. There were some really important parts in the book, especially regarding how caste, class, and preconceived rigid roles that rule society, and how they can completely change the trajectory of people's lives. One aspect I didn't like was the non-linear structure, because certain allusions to the event became too repetitive, which took away from the overall impact of the book. What I found heartbreaking yet interesting was how the death of Sophie Mol was accidental and very quick, but it weighed so heavily on everyone, and it upended everyone's lives. Whereas Velutha's fate is so unjust and orchestrated by people who couldn't care less about their actions and could have been prevented. It just highlights how some lives are valued more and mourned differently in our society. I understand that the point the author wants to make is that society will, at times, care more about the perception or appearance of morality than actual morals. However, the penultimate chapter with Estha and Rahel made me really uncomfortable. I understand that it is a culmination of the trauma they face at a really young age and how it shapes their lives, but it did not sit right with me.

I really enjoyed this book. Certain things were easy to predict, but it didn't take away from the story. I couldn't put the book down and had to force myself to sleep last night and continue it today. I actually liked the POVs because it all ties in together so well at the end, and you get a lot more insight into certain aspects of the story. Loved the formation of her name. The epilogue made me teary-eyed - these were just two best friends who suffered the consequences of this brutal attack in really bad but different ways. It was so heartwarming to learn the kid's name. I wish there was more to read about Ethan. He deserved more. One thing I was frustrated by was how she let her phone get ruined and not pick something else, so she has some contact with her kid and the world while there's a storm. I also think the last few chapters were a little dragged, but overall, the book was really entertaining. And there were some random characters that don't add or do anything to the story.