For our November Nod Book Club title, we shifted gears to handpick a novel that’s a little different from what we’ve done so far. We’ve explored a sci-fi novel, a heartwarming read about an octopus, a modern mystery, and a workplace dramedy; but this past month we've been talking about author Mahesh Rao’s newest title, ‘Half Light’. Told from alternating perspectives of its two protagonists, Pavan and Neville, the story revolves around two queer men from very different socio-economic backgrounds and ultimately leads up to the pivotal moment in India’s recent history—the decriminalisation of Section 377 in 2018. Rao’s fourth book and third novel has notes of gloom, anger, and shame, but the book is also suffused with the author’s wry humour, satirical wit—something his followers on Instagram may be familiar with through his tightly curated memes.Â
We also got writer Parmesh Shahani to chat with Rao about the book, queer clichés, why Ahaan Pandey and Taha Shah are their dream leading men, and whether a sequel might be lurking in Rao’s drafts. Watch the full video here. Keep up with the Nod Book Club for more exciting updates!
