Claudia

Author: Sophia Lorena Benjamin
Publisher: Olive Turtle, an imprint of Niyogi Books
(Pp 252, ISBN 978-93-86906-29-8, Rs 395)
Set in 1961, Claudia is a young girl, who lives in Goa, which was then a part of Portugal. Claudia falls for her Portuguese master Damiano. This is the time when there is intensified resistance by the Indian government to liberate Goa from Portuguese rule. Since Portuguese start retreating, it becomes difficult for Claudia. She has to make a choice — leave everything and go with Damiano or forget his love forever.
The story is simple and there is nothing new in it. But, the narration, the characters depiction, the settings description, etc make it an enjoyable read. The emotions that Claudia experiences are so real, you can actually feel them.
– Varsha Verma