4.01 AVERAGE

diannel_04's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

I loved Gowda's first book, The Secret Daughter, and I really wanted to like this one but I just didn't. I couldn't even finish it. The writing didn't seem as smooth or nuanced as in the first book and the story was so pedestrian it was almost laughable.

I mentioned this to someone who works at Indigo and he told me the majority of the employees there felt the same way I did so I felt better.

2 1/2 - I didn't mind finishing it, but the writing and dialogue weren't rich enough for me. Things happened but I struggled to care about the characters.

The stories of Anil and Leena were desolate at times but, ultimately moving and full of hope.
lopab94's profile picture

lopab94's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

It's not often that I start a book and can't force myself to finish it. But this is one of those rare books. I'm kind of sick of stories by Indian authors about women who are married off to misogynistic jerks.

Really 2 1/2 stars. I loved loved loved the first book by Gowda, The Secret Daughter, so I was really looking forward to this one, and maybe my expectations were too high. My main problem was everything was so darn predictable. From page 1, there were absolutely no surprises except at the very end, and that actually seemed contrived. As in: Haha! fooled you!

As well, when I read a book like this, which is supposed to grip you emotionally, I expect to like at least one of the characters. Every main character in this book is generic, vanilla, everyman/every character you've ever read. The only interesting people are secondary and hardly mentioned.

Disappointing :(

A very pleasant to read book, simple and free-flowing writing that makes you want more.
Maybe, that’s why I felt it ended too soon πŸ€·πŸ»β€β™€οΈ I really did enjoy reading this one πŸ‘πŸ»

Great example of chick lit. Struggling to understand why this book is rated so high. There is no lyricism in the writing, I guessed the plot which is not saying much believe you me, and we learn nothing new of Indian culture. There is no unique view or writing style. Do not read this book for book club as there is very little of substance going on here.

I loved this book. Shilpi Somaya Gowda has managed to create a story that is charming, enchanting and fascinating. The story is modern and old-world at the same time, with a wide cast of characters who take the reader into an amazing tale that is at times charming , at times heart breaking. Well done! I would highly recommend it.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Really enjoyed this novel, heartwarming and well paced, set between Texas and India, the author did a great job in reporting sensations, odors, daily life etc. In both sceneries.