Reenita M. Hora’s VERMILION HARVEST: PLAYTIME AT THE BAGH tells the poignant story of an Anglo-Indian schoolteacher who falls in love with a Muslim law student participating in Satyagraha: a non-violent movement against the oppressive colonial rule of the British over India. The movement draws its strength from the peaceful teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. However, the participants are quickly branded as criminals who must be dispersed with violence, endangering many and bringing this danger home to Aruna, the schoolteacher trying to keep a low profile amid the identity crisis she battles due to the ugly circumstances that overshadow her birth. The book is set in the early to mid-1900s, centering on India’s struggles and sacrifices for her independence.

Aruna is a compelling protagonist—caught between her Anglo-Indian heritage and societal expectations. Her internal struggles are relatable and nuanced, revealing layers of complexity. Ayaz, her love interest, is equally dynamic, characterized by his political activism and charm. The interplay between their contrasting traits—his idealism versus her cautious pragmatism—drives the narrative forward. Other supporting characters, such as her mother and friend, Amrita, enrich the story by providing additional perspectives on love, tradition, and independence.

The novel is structured around Aruna’s personal growth and relationship with Ayaz, set against India’s struggle for freedom. The tension arises from personal (societal constraints, familial expectations) and political (colonial oppression, activism) conflicts. This tension mounts as the much-anticipated and critical spring festival (Baisakhi) approaches, with people arriving from all over the country to celebrate in Amristar amid talks of planned arrests. As people begin to choose sides, even those she conversed with daily now view her with accusation and disgust.

Wielding engaging dialogue, Hora captures the wit and emotional depth of Aruna and Ayaz’s romance, which quickly transforms into a passionate love story. The prose is evocative and rich, skillfully blending poetic descriptions with authentic historical detail. Aruna’s struggles with feelings of belonging nowhere and imposter syndrome are expressed well, as she often ponders her life and the actions that led to her birth—even remarking that “I straddled two worlds—one that over the last several months had been underscored as that of the enemy.” On another occasion, she reflects on her mother’s constant shame, noting, “However, my eighteen-year-old self refused to accept that I was the reason for her shame. Or should I say, her newest episode of shame. Being disgraced in society had become part of my mother’s DNA.”

Hora’s ability to integrate historical events like the Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre with personal stories adds gravitas to the narrative. Also, the novel’s language reflects the cultural and temporal setting, creating an immersive reading experience. Though there are times when the pace is slowed due to overly descriptive passages, this novel proves an absorbing blend of historical fiction and romance.

Balancing historical events with drama and romance, Reenita M. Hora’s VERMILION HARVEST is a gripping tale of India’s gruesome and heartrending history amid her struggle for independence.

~Gabriella Harrison for IndieReader