Thank you NetGalley and Troubador Publishing for this eCopy to review

The Fortune-Teller Of Delhi by A. K. Karla is a charming and thought-provoking novel that weaves together the lives of several characters in a bustling Delhi marketplace. The story centres around the enigmatic fortune-teller who has been a fixture in the market for decades, offering wisdom and guidance to those who seek it.

The plot follows a diverse cast of characters, including Manju and Rajinder, who are regulars at the market and often discuss their future happiness under the watchful eye of Sagar, the proprietor of the best coffee and cake shop in Delhi. Newcomer Jahan, who sells mysterious potions, is also a key figure, grappling with his own fears of change while helping others transform their lives.

One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its exploration the power of belief. The fortune-teller's insights and the characters' responses to them drive much of the narrative, raising questions about how much control we truly have over our own lives. The interactions between the characters are rich and layered, with each person bringing their own hopes, dreams, and insecurities to the table.

Karla's writing is both lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the Delhi marketplace and its vibrant community. The descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells of the market are so detailed that you can almost feel yourself walking through the bustling streets.

The Fortune-Teller Of Delhi is a beautifully written novel that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of its characters and the magic that can be found in everyday moments. Fans of literary fiction and those interested in stories about fate and self-discovery will find much to enjoy in this book.

I really enjoyed reading “The Fortune-Teller of Delhi” by A.K. Karla. I love stories set in India and I was immediately transported to Delhi of fifty years ago (although, I really don’t know about that first hand—other than my short trip in 2003). The characters and setting came alive, and I wish I could be walking through the marketplace where the fortune teller was sitting.

However, I did feel confused by number of characters with unfamiliar names that appeared and who was who. It would have been extremely useful if the author had provided a cast of characters for the front of the book. Also, about halfway through the book I started wondering if this was the sequel to another story because of all the references to things that had happened in the past. Nonetheless, I enjoyed this well-written story and would definitely read more by this author.

Many thanks to Net Galley and the Publisher for an ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.