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Before the Sunset by Lakshmi Menon

by Kakuli Nag
(Kolkata, India)

I personally feel Before the Sunset is a strong pick for readers who enjoy contemporary Indian fiction with emotional depth — simple, realistic stories of everyday people grappling with loss, identity, and relationships, rather than high-drama melodrama. The narrative is firmly grounded in a South Indian social context, which adds authenticity and warmth.

The dual narrative structure — two families whose lives intersect through fate, with one secret remaining unrevealed until the end — beautifully captures the unpredictability of life itself.

For readers who prefer literary experimentation, highly stylized prose, or fast-paced plotting, this novel might appear somewhat conventional. However, it makes for a deeply satisfying read on a relaxed evening, when one wishes to reflect on human emotions and the choices that shape our lives, rather than chase cheap suspense.

The subtle storytelling, without cognitive overload, allows readers to dwell with the characters and live their journeys — making the book high on emotional resonance and readability.

That said, a few peripheral characters — such as Dr. Manoj’s friend, his wife, or their three sons — could be trimmed or reworked without affecting the story’s depth. Slightly tighter editing might enhance the nuances of storytelling and make the emotional arcs even more compelling.

Overall, Before the Sunset stands out for its sincerity, simplicity, and ability to evoke empathy — a quietly powerful read.

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