This short story set in New Jersey invites us to the
wedding of an Indian girl, Priya; her best friend Callie
is
enjoying donning traditional Indian dress too, although
she's Caribbean. The complex folds of colourful satiny
fabric in her sari merge with the aromas of spicy foods
and
sounds of excited chatter. SWEET TO THE TASTE is rich in
contrast and texture, so despite the respectful absence of
alcohol Callie is easily made to feel giddy by the sights
and sounds. The dreamy-looking man playing traditional
instruments is enough to tip the balance.
Walking in a conservatory to clear her mind, Callie finds
that the musician has pursued her and when it's clear that
they are each interested in more than flowers, Callie
learns that this man has removed more than one sari in his
time. She's not the kind of girl who kisses total
strangers, but somehow this feels fated.
SWEET TO THE TASTE by Alyssa Cole provides an exotic,
erotic treat, with sufficient realism and strength of
character for us to admire Callie, and potential for her
to
make her own happiness in life. I enjoyed this short tale
and wished it was longer.
Callie, unlucky in love and unable to move on, rediscovers
passion at her best friend's wedding with the handsome
singer hired for the traditional Indian event. He's more
god
than man, but does he have the power to soothe her soul
and
teach her body to sing?
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