Meena Dave doesn’t have a family or permanent address. She’s perfectly happy being a nomadic photojournalist. She likes keeping her network to a small group of professionals and one college friend. But then one day she learns that she has inherited an apartment in a historic Victorian building in Boston. She’s set on selling it. But then she begins finding clues from the previous occupant that coax her into discovering a part of her identity that she had accepted she would never know. The Candid Life of Meena Dave follows Meena as she struggles with this unexpected twist her life has taken, and the decisions she must face depending on who she wants to be. 

Meena has been on her own since she was sixteen. Her adoptive parents died in a tragic accident and thus she had to navigate adulthood on her own – figuring out college and careers, how to fund her aspirations, how to pay bills, etc. As a result, she’s built an adventurous lifestyle, but proud of it. But then a woman she’s never met, named Neha, passes away and names Meena as the heir to the apartment. 

At first, Meena resists calling the place home – especially since apparently the residence comes with a trio of meddling “aunties” who aren’t used to locked doors. But then she discovers a note – and another, and another – until she can’t ignore the revelation that Neha is trying to reveal. As a result, these clues pull Meena (and readers) into connecting the dots to finding out exactly why Neha named her as the heir. 

I really liked Meena as a character. She’s overcome so much tragedy and hardship that would have made anyone give up on life. Understandably, she’s essentially a closed book and is very content with not letting anyone get too close. But by the end of the novel, her character growth is undoubtedly something to be admired. Patel beautifully illustrates the struggle one would face had they detached themselves from their biological origins, only to be teased with the truth as an adult. The Candid Life of Meena Dave explores the significance of identity, family, culture, and adjusting your comfort zone for the better. 

Namrata Patel joins me for a Cantina Conversation where she discusses her research for Meena’s story, her experiences in publishing the novel, and personal insights that inspired the book. Keep an ear out for the interview on an upcoming episode of The Nerd Cantina Show podcast. In the meantime, I strongly recommend pre-ordering The Candid Life of Meena Dave, available June 7.