One great Indian love novel to start with is 'A Suitable Boy' by Vikram Seth. It's a long but engaging story that delves deep into relationships in post - independence India.
'Two States' by Chetan Bhagat is also a must - read. It tells the story of a couple from two different Indian states who face various challenges in their relationship due to cultural differences. It's a relatable and modern take on love in India.
Another is 'The Palace of Illusions' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. It retells the story of the Mahabharata from Draupadi's perspective, with a strong focus on love, power, and sacrifice. It gives a fresh take on an old epic and is full of emotional depth.
You should definitely consider 'The Inheritance of Loss' by Kiran Desai. This novel explores the themes of migration, identity, and the clash between cultures. It won the Man Booker Prize. 'Train to Pakistan' by Khushwant Singh is also a classic. Set during the partition of India, it gives a heart - wrenching account of the violence and upheaval of that time. 'The White Tiger' by Aravind Adiga is a more contemporary take on the Indian experience, looking at issues like class struggle and the dark underbelly of India's economic rise.
For sure, you should read 'Q&A' which was made into the movie 'Slumdog Millionaire'. It tells an interesting story of a young man from the slums. 'The Guide' by R.K. Narayan is also a classic. It's about a tour guide whose life takes many unexpected turns. And 'Interpreter of Maladies' by Jhumpa Lahiri is great as it explores the experiences of Indian - Americans through a collection of short stories.
One must - have Indian novel is 'The God of Small Things' by Arundhati Roy. It beautifully weaves a story of family, love, and the caste system in Kerala. Another is 'Midnight's Children' by Salman Rushdie. It tells the story of India's transition to independence through the lives of children born at midnight on the day of independence. And 'A Suitable Boy' by Vikram Seth is also great. It's a long and detailed exploration of post - independence India through the search for a suitable boy for a young woman.
I would also recommend 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi. This graphic novel is a memoir that gives a personal and eye - opening look at life in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. The simple black - and - white art style effectively conveys the emotions and experiences of the author, and it's a great way to learn about a different culture and its history.
One must - read wuxia novel is 'The Legend of Condor Heroes' by Jin Yong. It has a great story with complex characters and amazing martial arts descriptions. Another is 'Swordsman', also by Jin Yong. It's full of intrigue, loyalty, and great fight scenes. And 'The Deer and the Cauldron' is also very good. It combines humor with wuxia elements in a unique way.
One must - read contemporary novel is 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini. It's a powerful story about friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of Afghanistan's history. Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, exploring themes of marriage and identity. 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green is also highly recommended. It's a heart - wrenching love story that deals with illness and mortality in a very poignant way.
One must - read Tamil novel is 'Ponniyin Selvan' by Kalki Krishnamurthy. It's a historical epic that vividly depicts the Chola dynasty. Another great one is 'Sivagamiyin Sabadham' also by Kalki. It has a rich narrative full of love, war, and political intrigue. 'Parthiban Kanavu' is yet another. It tells a story of a king's unfulfilled dream and is a beautiful piece of literature.
You could start with 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes' by Arthur Conan Doyle. It's a classic with brilliant detective work.
One must - read visual novel is 'Clannad'. It has a beautiful story that combines elements of slice - of - life, drama, and a touch of the supernatural. The characters are well - developed and the emotional journey throughout the game is truly engaging.
One must - read classic romance novel is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a story full of misunderstandings, social class differences, and of course, love. The relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is iconic.