Imagine packing your bags, flying across the world, and landing in India, all in the name of feminism. But when you get there, you realize things aren't as simple as they seem. This is exactly what happens in Lakshmi Raj Sharma's intriguing novel We Should Not All Be Feminists. The title itself is bold—almost provocative—and sets the tone for the story, which explores the fine line between genuine feminism and its misinterpretation. Sharma, known for his thought-provoking storytelling, takes readers on a whirlwind journey through love, empowerment, and cultural clashes. And let me tell you, it’s not what you expect.
The story kicks off with two women, Clarissa from Britain and Emelia from the U.S., who travel to India with their feminist ideals. While Clarissa is ambitious and perhaps a little selfish in her pursuit, Emelia genuinely wants to uplift and support women. When they meet Rajni Kant and Vibha, a couple in a strained marriage, their efforts to empower Vibha only stir up trouble—particularly when Emelia falls for Rajni, Vibha’s husband. Things get even messier when Emelia's ex, Neville, shows up from America. This tangled web of relationships is set against the vibrant backdrop of India, with the country itself almost becoming a character in the novel.
What really sets this book apart from other stories of women’s empowerment is Sharma's distinction between authentic and superficial feminism. It’s a rare take—one that critiques the performative activism we sometimes see in modern movements.
Lakshmi Raj Sharma has a way of making his prose flow effortlessly. His writing is accessible but rich, and he manages to inject humor even into serious themes. The narrative voice strikes a balance between satire and sincerity, making you laugh one moment and reflect deeply the next. The way he weaves India's cultural fabric into the story, from its spirituality to its social complexities, feels both natural and vivid. You can almost hear the Ganga flowing in the background or smell the spices in the air.
The characters are where this book truly shines. Clarissa and Emelia represent two sides of feminism—one self-serving and the other well-meaning but naive. Emelia’s internal struggle, particularly as she falls in love with Rajni, is heartfelt and relatable. Rajni and Vibha’s relationship, meanwhile, provides an insightful look into the dynamics of a dysfunctional marriage, where both partners are equally trapped but for different reasons. The characters evolve over the course of the novel, making choices that are sometimes messy but always human. And isn’t that the most relatable thing?
The pacing of the story is well-executed. There are enough plot twists to keep you on your toes, especially when Neville unexpectedly arrives in India, complicating an already delicate situation. Sharma’s decision to parallel personal relationships with broader discussions on feminism and cultural understanding creates a layered narrative. Each chapter leaves you wanting more, with the structure enhancing the tension between characters.
At its core, We Should Not All Be Feminists is about understanding what true empowerment looks like. The novel doesn’t shy away from difficult questions: Can feminism ever be one-size-fits-all? How do cultural contexts shape our views on gender equality? By critiquing “fake feminism,” the book forces us to consider how well-meaning intentions can sometimes do more harm than good. It’s a timely reflection on the complexities of activism in today’s globalized world.
Reading this book felt like a rollercoaster of emotions. One moment, I was amused by Clarissa’s audacity, and the next, I was moved by Vibha’s quiet resilience. Emelia’s journey, too, stirred feelings of empathy, especially when she realizes that her good intentions might not lead to the outcomes she imagined. It’s thought-provoking and heartwarming, with just the right amount of emotional punch.
The biggest strength of this novel is how it balances humour with high-stakes drama. Sharma does a fantastic job of presenting nuanced, flawed characters who are grappling with their ideals and desires. The cross-cultural connections, especially how the characters relate to India’s spiritual and social landscape, add depth to the narrative. And let’s not forget the subtle critique of modern-day feminism—it's bold and refreshing.
If I had to point out a weakness, it would be that some plot points, particularly Clarissa’s arc, felt a little underdeveloped. While her ambition is clear, I found myself wanting more insight into her motivations and how she evolves by the end. That said, it’s a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling story.
Personally, this book struck a chord with me. As someone who’s passionate about gender equality but also aware of the nuances that come with it, I found the themes in We Should Not All Be Feminists to be incredibly relevant. Sharma doesn’t offer easy answers, and that’s what makes this book stand out—it’s complex, just like the real-world issues it tackles. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good cross-cultural love story with a side of social commentary?
In the end, We Should Not All Be Feminists is more than just a novel about relationships—it’s a critique of the ways we approach feminism and empowerment in a globalized world. It’s witty, thoughtful, and deeply engaging. If you’re looking for a book that makes you reflect on what it truly means to be a feminist while also taking you on an emotional journey, I’d highly recommend picking this one up.
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