I have read more romance novels than I have read all the other genres combined. That itself lets you know how much I love them. Having said that, I find this genre very difficult to review, mostly because of the following reason.
To me, a romance novel is like comfort food. The flavours may vary, but at the end of the day, one knows that this is no-risk soul food. In a similar way, the story in these novels could take any direction, but there is a certain comfort in knowing that there is a happily ever after waiting for us at the end.
On the flip side, after a while all these stories kind of blend into one another. It takes a lot for a romance novel to stand out.
Take 2 is kind of a contradiction in this respect. It has a plot that is very Bollywood-y (for the lack of a better word), yet this one has been a standout for me, in-spite of a familiar story line.
The plot of the book revolves around the life of Priya, the quintessential girl-next-door, who married very young and got dumped by her husband Sameer, who used her merely as a means to get ahead in life. Enter Abhimanyu, a chance encounter in Priya’s world, who turns into a friend and ally, and eventually her knight without the armour. 🙂
The story depicts the classic conflict between ethics and desires, and the author takes us along this journey with Priya as she learns to navigate life while balancing her fears and insecurities with her hopes and dreams. It certainly helps that Abhimanyu is not just eye-candy, but soul-candy. 😛 The term Mr. Perfect could have been coined for him. 😀
Also by Ruchi Singh: Another 5 Star Romance – Jugnu
I especially liked the well thought out supporting cast- the friends, the parents, and even a ‘villain’. They are not just added fluff, they actually play a role and take the story forward.
The dialogues are laced with subtle wit and effortless charm. The characters are well fleshed out and scenes are well written. Together they create a very vivid mental picture. That is one thing that I loved about the book. It was very easy to visualise and played out like a movie in front of my eyes.
With the things I mentioned above, this book already had all the ingredients of a wonderful romantic cocktail, and then the story took an unexpected but interesting turn. I won’t be able to reveal a whole lot without giving out spoilers, but there is a lot of action going on outside of the love story, which involves courtroom drama in the climax, and ultimately leads us to a befitting end.
I must say that for a debut novel, Ruchi shows amazing command over her characters, scenes, and settings. It speaks volumes about her potential as a writer.
Take 2 is the kind of book that will remind you what you love about the genre of romance, and will make you fall in love with it all over again.
GET THIS BOOK HERE:
Amazon One Link: Paperback | Kindle
Amazon India: Paperback | Kindle
I would love to hear from you guys. Have you read Take 2? How did you find it? Do you read this genre at all? If yes, what is the thing that you like the most about it? If no, why not? (just curious)
Disclaimer: I won this book in a giveaway, and this review is written as a part of a Blog Tour conducted by The Book Club.
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Somali K Chakrbarti
I am not much into books (as of now) but I enjoyed reading the review. The line romance novel is a no-risk soul food sounded interesting Shanaya. 🙂
Somali K Chakrbarti recently posted…Hero Cycles – The Journey of Cycling Heroes
Shanaya Tales
That is actually what I think about this genre. Sweet and safe. Well, in most cases. 🙂
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Alok Singhal
I am happy that it is beyond a typical love story. I would have loved to read this, if i was into books.
The way you have reviewed this is quite noteworthy…not divulging too many details and still keeping me engaged!
Alok Singhal recently posted…Conversations of a different kind!
Shanaya Tales
Glad you liked the review, Alok. 🙂 It is a great book for people who read the genre. Thank you so much for stopping by. 🙂
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Shilpa Garg
Aww! This book has such a beautiful romance. Simply loved the characters. Agree with your review completely!
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Shanaya Tales
Oh yes! It took a while to get Abhi out of my system. 😛
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C. Lee McKenzie
I’m not much into romance, so I haven’t read this one. I tend to go for the not so happy ever after story. I’m not sure why since I could really use a bit of escape. Great to find your blog, and I enjoyed reading your review.
Shanaya Tales
I understand. Some plots do not need a HEA. But I love my HEAs. I seek them out. Thank you so much for stopping by. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
Kathy
I am such a sucker for all those sappy romances! My whimsical heart just eats them up! ♥
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Shanaya Tales
I can say ditto to that. 😀
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
Rajlakshmi
I don’t read much romantic novels… but when I do I get so addicted to the story that I end up losing my sleep 😛
Loved the storyline and I am curious as to what happened in the ending.
Wonderful review.
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Shanaya Tales
Hahaha.. I am that way too. Towards the end of a novel, forget sleep, my whole life is on hold. 😛 Thank you so much, Raj. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
Rachna
I haven’t read the book as yet. But I do like reading romcoms like those that Anuja Chauhan writes. I am not into sugary sweet romances though. 🙂
Shanaya Tales
Ok. This was the final nudge I needed to look up Anuja Chauhan. Added ‘The Zoya Factor’ to my TBR. Thank you. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
Rajeev Pundir
Now i think i will go for it.
Shanaya Tales
Glad you liked it. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
nabanita
haven’t read it but looks like a good read…These days I’m more into thrillers..But definitely noted this one 🙂
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Shanaya Tales
Thrillers are something that I have had my eye on for quite some time now, and I hope to explore more this year. Coming to Take 2, if and when you want to pick up a romantic HEA, this one is quite nice. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
the little princess
ooooo….so bollywoodish! well written!! Romance is what I thrive on too….I think I will like this one!
Shanaya Tales
Yes, do give it a try. I too think you will like this one. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
Sundari Venkatraman
That’s a fabulous and detailed review of a lovely book! I agree with you Shantala when you say that Take 2 is a great story with all the right ingredients, especially considering that it’s Ruchi Singh’s first novel. 🙂
Here’s my review of the book: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in/2015/06/book-review-take-2-second-chance-at.html
Shanaya Tales
Read your review. Great minds think alike. 😀
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blogoratti
Seems like a good read and nice review. Thanks for sharing!
Shanaya Tales
You are very welcome. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review
Susan Gourley
I haven’t read this book but since I write romance, I do read a lot of it. Sometimes I just want a book that I know will be HEA when I get to the last page.
http://susangourley.blogspot.com/2015/08/new-things.html
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Shanaya Tales
Yes, that is very true, Susan. There is something so comforting about a HEA, that sometimes I need that assurance when I pick a book. That is why I like this genre. It is my pick-me-up. 🙂
Shanaya Tales recently posted…Take 2 by Ruchi Singh | Book Review