The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey is praised for its rich historical setting in 1920s Bombay and strong, intelligent protagonist, Perveen Mistry, who is inspired by India's first female lawyer. The mystery is compelling, though some find the pacing slow at times. Massey effectively weaves cultural and social issues into the narrative, enhancing its depth.

A reader who enjoys The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey typically appreciates historical mysteries with strong female protagonists. Fans of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith or Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear would likely find this book engaging for its richly detailed setting and social issues.

In The Widows of Malabar Hill, readers follow Perveen Mistry, Bombay's first female solicitor in the 1920s, as she navigates legal and societal challenges. Tasked with safeguarding the inheritance of three Muslim widows secluded in purdah, Perveen uncovers deceit and hidden tensions, combining a murder mystery with insights into colonial India and women's legal rights.

Mysterious / Adventurous / Suspenseful / Informative / Contemplative

- The Widows of Malabar Hill is the first book in a series featuring Perveen Mistry, who is inspired by India's first female lawyer, Cornelia Sorabji.
- Sujata Massey incorporated her experiences from living in India and her interest in the country's social history to create the novel's rich cultural backdrop.
- The book received the prestigious Agatha Award for Best Historical Novel in 2018, highlighting its well-crafted mystery and historical setting.

**Perveen Mistry (Perveen Sodawalla)**  
A 23-year-old, pioneering female lawyer in Bombay, who navigates societal expectations and personal challenges while pursuing justice.

**Razia**  
The first wife of a wealthy mill owner, she manages philanthropic efforts and seeks to protect her daughter, Amina.

**Amina**  
A 12-year-old girl eager to explore the world outside her household, known for her intelligence and curiosity.

**Sakina Chivne**  
The second wife who wields significant influence within the household, her past and relationship dynamics bring intrigue to the story.

**Mumtaz**  
The third wife of humble origins, who tends to keep a low profile but cares deeply for her new family connections.

**Faisal Mukri**  
A character whose past relationships and actions incite mystery and conflict within the narrative.

**Mohsen Dawai**  
A guardsman whose actions introduce minor antagonism; his motivations reveal a complex personality.

**Jamshedji and Camellia Mistry**  
Perveen’s supportive parents, who encourage her groundbreaking career while maintaining strong family bonds.

**Cyrus Sodawalla**  
Perveen’s estranged husband, whose background and actions present significant personal challenges for her.

**Alice Hobson-Jones**  
Perveen's best friend, a fellow Oxford graduate with strong ideals and a quest for independence in a challenging environment.

Sujata Massey

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Background

The Widows of Malabar Hill Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1921” - Part 2: “1916”

Parts 1-2

The Widows of Malabar Hill Parts 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “1921”

Part 3 The Widows of Malabar Hill Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “1916” - Part 5: “1917”

Parts 4-5

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Part 6: “1921” - Part 9: “1917”

Parts 6-9

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Part 10: “1921”

Part 10 The Widows of Malabar Hill Part 10 Summary & Analysis

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The Widows of Malabar Hill Character Analysis

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