**The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese**
*The Covenant of Water* by Abraham Verghese is a sweeping, multigenerational epic set in Kerala, South India, spanning the years 1900 to 1977. This beautifully crafted novel follows three generations of a South Indian family that is bound together by a mysterious curse: in every generation, at least one person dies by drowning, even though they live surrounded by water.
At the heart of the story is a woman known as Big Ammachi, who marries at the age of 12 and becomes the matriarch of a family full of secrets, tragedies, and enduring love. As Big Ammachi’s life unfolds, the narrative interweaves themes of medical mystery, history, and cultural transformation, painting a vivid portrait of India’s evolving landscape. Verghese brings his deep understanding of medicine and human resilience to the novel, exploring the ways in which water, healing, and generational bonds shape the family’s legacy.
Rich with lyrical prose and profound insight, *The Covenant of Water* is a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the unbreakable ties that connect us all. A masterful story for readers who enjoy deeply layered and immersive historical fiction.