The Golden Son    by Shilpi Somaya Gowda Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2016 (2016) Hardcover, Softcover, CD, e-Book      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Anil and Leena have been close friends since childhood. Anil comes from a large family in a small village in India. Leena is from a nearby village and is an only child. As they mature, it is evident that Anil wants a life as a doctor. Leena and he part when Anil goes to Dallas, Texas to pursue his dream. Leena, however, has no dream and accepts the age-old practice of an arranged marriage. Hers is not a wise decision, but her parents think this is for the best. I won't tell you any more of the plot of this beautifully written novel. I could imagine the childhood of these two friends – so different but yet both with feelings so strong. The characters come alive on the pages – Leena with such a free spirit and Anil with his drive to become a doctor who can make a difference in the world. The author – Shilpi Somaya Gowda – explores family dynamics to the extent that the reader feels a part of the novel and wishes for the best for all concerned. Also explored is the culture that exists even today of arranged marriages. Gowda also wrote Secret Daughter which won acclaim. I must read that one. If it is half as good as The Golden Son, it is a winner. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Contemporary books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews