Deep Fried

In Mark Doyon's novel Deep Fried, Arjun Chatterjee, an Americanized millennial food-truck chef crafting multiethnic recipes in a parking lot outside the nation’s capital, pursues a young woman working in a Kafkaesque office nearby while navigating a world of oversized dreams and shaky prospects. He faces the ups and downs of creativity, love, and entrepreneurship in this tale of resilience and the quest for fulfillment, brimming with humor. Readers are treated to a richly layered exploration of human relationships, ambition, and cultural intersections within the backdrop of a food truck court. The narrative weaves together the lives of several characters, mainly Arjun, a determined and optimistic truck owner, and Candy, a disillusioned office worker seeking her identity while dealing with social pressures and personal obligations. 

This novel captures the pulse of contemporary America, where the culinary arts become a microcosm for more prominent roles and identities. Through the vibrant lens of food trucks, Doyon contrasts his characters’ dreams with their grueling realities, prompting readers to reflect on what it means to pursue happiness in a restrictive world. Arjun embodies the immigrant experience, aspiring to create something unique and significant in his Bollywood Eggrolls. His interactions with Candy highlight a dual struggle — the quest for professional fulfillment juxtaposed with personal desires. Candy, trapped in a numbing telemarketing job, finds herself drawn to Arjun and his culinary creations, which symbolize a life filled with passion and authenticity instead of the hollow existence she endures. 

The dialogue is sharp and insightful, laced with humor that brings the characters and their plights to life. Through characters like Angry Eddie, whose perspective provides a raw edge to the narrative, Doyon highlights the transient nature of life and the emotional toll it takes on individuals who must question their insignificance in the larger canvas of society. Deep Fried also examines themes of past traumas and their impact and the fragility of dreams. For instance, the character of Melinda sees the rise and fall of those around her, mirroring her journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment. Doyon skillfully uses these narratives to comment on the need for community and support amidst individual struggles. The food truck becomes a metaphor for life's possibilities. Doyon's gorgeous prose and thoughtful character development make this novel an enthralling read. And you’ll have a lot of laughter following the intriguing characters.