2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

When Tracy meets with Kavita’s family, she develops strong impressions from each member. What early impressions did you form? Did you have any suspicions about any of them?

I didn't like anyone in her family except for Sam. It felt like he was the only person in the family who loved Vita. I was suspicious of the mother. Even her husband looked at her to approve his responses to Tracy.

Honestly? I suspected Nikhil right away and I never let go. He was hostile and didn’t seem bothered at all that Kavita was missing. Mom left a lot to be desired, too. I thought her father was really worried and concerned, even though he deferred to Himani. Poor Sam. He was the only one holding this family together. But Nikhil was my one and only suspect.

Nikhil was a possibility, but there was something about her mother that made her high on my list. Nikhil was angry, but I didn't think he would kill his sister. I can't explain it as anything more than a feeling.

I’ve heard of Indian brothers killing their sisters to preserve family honor. He fit the profile.

I didn't know that. I associated honor killings with Muslim families more than Indian. Maybe that is because of personal friendships with more Indian families.

It’s much worse with Muslim families.

I felt like the mother was running the show when Tracy was questioning the family. It did seem like everyone looked to her before answering the questions.

I'm with Sharon on Nakhil. He was angry at Kavita, but I didn't think he had hurt her.

I kept wondering why Tracy didn't question the grandparents who also lived in the same house, especially after Kavita's body was found. I didn't think they had actually hurt her, but they could tell her what had been happening between Kavita and her family, and tell who was home the night of the murder.

Robin, I think she read the room and realized Himani was clearly the head of that household😏

Kavita's Mom - 'harsh' was the word that came to mind for her. This will sound totally unkind of me but I felt like her attitude was - she wasn't happy with her own life so why should her daughter get to be happy. Then add in - how can YOU do this to me and humiliate/dishonor me/our family. It was all about looks to the Mom.

Kavita's brother Nickhil (spelling?) there was some serious hate going on there. Not sure if this stemmed from the mom or was just all him. He tripped all my triggers for doing something to his sister.


Kavita's father - seemed to have the most normal reaction ~ well what could be considered normal for finding out your daughter is missing.

Sam - terrified of getting in trouble with his Mom for texting his sister. Poor thing ~ you could tell he loved and missed her.

Jonetta wrote: "I’ve heard of Indian brothers killing their sisters to preserve family honor. He fit the profile."

I had no idea this was a thing. That is so terrible and sad.

It’s actually legal in India, Melissa.

~Melissa~ wrote: "Kavita's Mom - 'harsh' was the word that came to mind for her. This will sound totally unkind of me but I felt like her attitude was - she wasn't happy with her own life so why should her daughter ..."

You’ve nailed them, Melissa.