Pride and Prejudice (and why it’s still apt) Part 2- Mr Darcy

The last one was a very literary description of the importance of themes and their relatability to the current times, this one is more of the many reasons why I think Mr Darcy is literally a gift to humanity and how men should be more like him and women should want to be with men like him and in general how ardently he disliked you, but still fell in love with you. (Although, I really wouldn’t support men being as confused about their feelings as he was about Lizzy- unless they can carry the handsome ruggedness- NOT think they can carry, but actually carry!!!).

So, here goes some of the many reasons why I love Mr. Darcy. Warning: there might be a lot of Colin Firth gifs coming your way.  

THE WHOLE ARDENTLY LOVING THING

He is so brutally honest with his declaration of love and doesn’t apologize or play games when it comes to love. It’s so rare to see men who are still ardently in love with you these days.

ADMITS WHEN HE’S WRONG

First, he’s a silly enough to make mistakes (like judging Lizzy and her sisters and their mother and then convincing Mr Bingley to not marry Jane), but he’s man enough to admit that he was wrong in doing that and that his actions only made his dear friend completely miserable and sad. It’s really rare to find men who’d actually do that.

THE MAN CAN WRITE

I know Mrs Bennet says that “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” But, I’d like to point out that the real truth is it is a truth universally acknowledged, that nothing pulls the strings of the heart of a well-read girl better than a well-worded letter. With men asking women out like ‘wil u b ma gf”, the true artisanship of handwritten letter professing true love and feelings is lost.  (And I’m not joking, a not-so-gentleman actually asked me like that- I ardently refused).

HOW HE TREATED LIZZY

Even in today’s “modern” times, men lack a sense of general respect for women. Mr Darcy, the perfection that he is, really saw Elizabeth as an equal. He behaved like a real gentleman to win her trust and love- and all of it with such devotion.

HE BEWITCHES WITH WORDS

Not only did he write very well, and make amazing declarations of his love- but, he was witty and ‘bewitched me mind and soul’ with his words.

ACTUALLY GETTING SHIT DONE WITHOUT EXPECTING CREDIT

When Lydia ran away, Mr Darcy was actually the one to sit on his horse and ride off and actually find the couple and sort their situation out. He didn’t do it to look good in front of Lizzy, he only did it to help Lizzy and didn’t even want her to find out that he was her Knight in Shining Armour- because that’s how amazing our Mr. Darcy is!

FOR WHEN HE SAT THERE AWKWARDLY JUST TO BE IN ELIZABETH’S COMPANY

I dont know anything more awkward than just sitting on a couch- as uncomfortable as one can imagine- all because he wanted to sit in Elizabeth’s company- even if they didn’t speak a word.

Book Review: ‘How to Find Love in Bookshop’ by Veronica Henry

I’ve been trying to finish this book for over a month now, which is never a good way to start a book review- I know. Usually, between my work, workout, writing and actual reading- I take about a week to finish a book but this took a long time. There’s a reasonable explanation- the book starts off on a very sombre note. Emilia, the protagonist’s father (Julian) passes away and that’s how the story starts and frames later.

Most novels just mention several characters in passing, but this one goes in great detail for almost all the characters- talking about the different things they learned- and how the bookshop- The Nightengale Books helped them or played a very important role in their lives.

Whether it’s Jackson – who’s trying to bond with his son and estranged wife, or Bea trying to find something to do other than just cleaning her newborn’s clothes; or Thomasina who’s looking for courage to tell a man she’s in love with him, or the woman in the Peasebrook mansion who was in love with the owner of the book store herself.

Out of all the stories, Julian’s was my favourite. It broke my heart to read when Rebecca passed away- and brought actual relief to me when I found out how much Sarah was in love with him.

The plot line mostly sticks to Emilia as she struggles to keep the bookstore working after her father’s death- and the many struggles, debacles and little wins she has- albeit with a little help from the many characters in the book.

Even with this many characters in the book, it never got confusing to remember who did what and had what kind of a role in the play- which is truly an art, if you ask me. I’ve read books with this many characters where the plot line goes down the drain very swiftly- but Veronica kept the plot line flowing and easy.

It’s a book for book lovers, with some incredible stories and several recommendations of books to read for different readers- whether it’s romance, food, life, history- whatever you wish to read. I quite enjoyed the second half of the book- when the melancholy tone moved away.

I would recommend the book to those who are absolutely obsessed with reading and to those who can be patient and wait for the plot line to slowly elaborate it.

 

Pride and Prejudice (And why it’s still apt) Part 1

I was 11 years old when I first got my hands on the ‘Pride and Prejudice’. While it wasn’t the first novel I read (that one’s ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ by Roald Dahl), it was certainly my first love story. Fast-forwarding to today, some 13 years later, I still treasure the book.

Written over 200 years ago, which is a really long time, there are several reasons to believe that the novel is still very relevant to today’s time. We could talk about the society, the way women view the world, the way men view the world, the misogynists, the prejudices – all of which could easily account for today’s time. The only changing factor would be- the necklines would be a little lower, and the hemlines a little higher.

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife,” is one of Literature’s most popular and perhaps the most pertinent statements.

While some could argue the plot is about finding a partner based on mutual affection and love, and not on class and wealth, the book actually paints a distinct picture of the middle-class and upper-class society of the Victorian England, while still remaining absolutely resonating.

There are different themes with ‘Pride and Prejudice’ that support the fascinating relevancy to today’s time, and while I’d love to write an at least 5000-word long essay on it, I’ll keep it short and in parts.

Themes ‘Pride’ and ‘Prejudice’

It only takes 5 seconds to create a first impression on somebody, that first impression creates our judgement about that person. On her first encounter with Mr Darcy, Elizabeth assumed a feeling of prejudice about him and concluded that he was rude, arrogant and full of pride. And while that isn’t completely untrue, Elizabeth had a high sense of pride herself. ‘Pride’ pretty much got in the way and really complicated things for both of them- till the end of the story, and don’t even let me get started on their prejudices.

Why I pinpoint on these two themes, and not just because that is the name of the book, it’s while the plot drivers and topics may no longer be seen as contemporary by many, the depiction of Austen’s understanding of human nature is spot on. 200 years on, and people still quickly create passive judgements, project their insecurities onto others, and often let pride and prejudice design their character.

What do you think?

Book Review: Do You Come Here Often? by Alexandra Potter

I’m not sure if I’ve said this before but I LOVE Alexandra Potter.She has an amazing way of writing- that I, especially am a fan of.

Do You Come Here Often was the first that I read of Alexandra. Let me start by saying that these are for those who are inclined to reading about romance and hope.

The story is about two Brits- Grace and Jimi. They were in the same school together but haven’t been in touch for a very long time. There’s also his best friend Clive, and her best friend Rhian and work mate Maggie. With these host of characters, it’s easy to find one to identify with and easily love all of them.

They’re not perfect characters- they are flawed but still lovable. The story jumps from characters and their storylines, which could be confusing but it isn’t. It’s been very well written and actually aligns really well to the climax of the book.

It is one of those books you just can’t put down and HAVE to find out what happens in the end. I read it straight for 2 days till I finished it. But, that’s the magic Alexandra has.

It’s really funny, emotional, relatable, real, refreshing and very excellently written. The only thing I quite didn’t enjoy was the reason Jimi didn’t call Grace back in the flashback- that was really stupid. But, 18-year-old boys are really stupid..so, I would give it that.

All in all, this book is about fate, chances, and destiny. It gives hope to the heart and tears of laughter, joy, and sadness. It’s one of my favorite reads that I go back to time and time again.

 

My favorite quotes:

“Forget about your ego. Forget about making a fool of yourself. Forget about getting hurt. Bare your soul and tell her how you feel.”

“But what good are hundreds of women, when I only want one?”

If like me, you are a hopeless romantic, read it!

 

 

Book Review: The Year I Met You by Cecelia Ahern

“I always thought that being helped was a loss of control, but you must allow someone to help you, you must want someone to help you, and only then can the act begin.”

I’ve always been a fan of Cecelia Ahern, her narration and plots have their way of weaselling into my heart. And The Year I Met You definitely pulled at the strings of my heart. This is one of those books that you would want to slowly read and cherish for a longer time. I really wanted to take my long, sweet time to read it, because that’s how you read a Cecelia Ahern book, but then I wanted to read it because I wanted to find out what happened.

When you start reading it, you’d think it will be a love story of the lead characters, like every cliche chick-lit. But, it isn’t. The plot would seem like a simple one, but then all of Cecelia’s books start that way, till they really bring you down to tears and break your heart and then mend it over and over and over again.

There is Jasmine and there is Matt. Jasmine has a late, loving mother, an estranged father with a trophy wife and an adorable 5-year-old daughter; and a wonderful older sister who is proud of her down syndrome. Her sister is the brightest star in Jasmine’s life.

The story starts with Jasmine losing her job and being put on a year-long garden pay. She lives opposite Matt- the notorious Matt who’s popular for a radio show and making drunk scenes on most night. He lives with his wife and children. But due to his rowdy behaviour, the wife takes the kids and leaves him, and he is suspended from the show.

Both of them, with nothing to do, become unlikely acquaintances and eventually friends. Till the end, I kept anticiapting whether they will be more than just friends. Cecelia’s eloquent writing style aids you in losing yourself in the story.

The story isn’t anything magical, enchanting or glamorous it’s a story about two regular people, going through the problems that most people face- whether it’s seeking jobs, being a parenting sister, or an alcoholic. But, it’s the way Cecelia writes the story that makes it mesmerizing and enchanting for the reader that is a recommendable quality in any author.

It doesn’t just give you a brand new perspective about live, but is about cutting some slack on yourself and not being your own enemy. The characters are compassionately derived, which makes the emotions in the book rather vivid and enriching. There are so many instances where you can feel the pain of the protagonist.

This one’s for all genres- it’s not just a chick-lit. It doesn’t have any whirlwind dates and romances- it’s about becoming yourself and cutting yourself some slack.

 

 

Book Review: ‘You Had Me At Hello’ by Mhairi McFarlane

“Do nothing, and nothing happens. Life is about decisions. You either make them or they’re made for you, but you can’t avoid them”

I’m the kind of person who is very easy to please. Although this isn’t how I should start to review something- but it’s true. I like to the see the good in everything, because of the hardship it goes through. I mostly read romance novels – the contemporary kind. So, when I came across this book at the bookstore, it appealed to me. This book is full of wise words, jokes and heart-breaking harsh truths.

“What happens when the ONE that got away comes back.”

This tagline was enough convincing for me to buy the book. And I did. Usually, when I really like a book, I go crazy just reading it. But, this book, was another level. I was infatuated with the book- the characters felt extraordinarily real. I didn’t want to do anything but read it- till I devoured it. And yet, I didn’t want it to finish. Lucky for me, it was satisfactorily long- and not in the way that it ever got boring.

The book is about Rachel and Ben, both in their super early 30s, had been friends in the university, but due to situations and complication nuances, Ben had left and they haven’t been in touch for like a whole decade.

The story revolves back in present and flashbacks to tell us what happened. In the present, Rachel, a journalist, had just called off her engagement with her boyfriend of 13 years- because it took her that long to realize she didn’t love him anymore. Ben’s married to Olivia and has just moved back to Manchester where Rachel is.

In the present, when Rachel coincidentally bumps into Ben again, their friendship blossoms again- just like the good old days. It’s important to know and understand that this story isn’t about cheating on one’s partner or spouse.

The book is very real- it’s contemporary at its best. Rachel doesn’t have any adorable flaws, and Ben isn’t the perfect, right-minded man. I could say he is slightly chivalrous, but the man has his faults. The other characters in the book are also as real as they can be. One of Rachel’s best friend, Mindy is probably my favourite. She reminded me a lot of Mindy Lahiri from The Mindy Project and it’s not because the character is Indian or named Mindy- but the humour and situations she finds herself in were quite hilarious.

The book has the right mix of humour, wit and anxiety knots. The book doesn’t have consistent flashbacks- and it’s not till much later in the story that you find out why Ben disappeared in University. But, they are timed perfectly. She doesn’t keep you anxious till the end but doesn’t reveal it too early either.

Mhairi has clearly mastered the art of balancing a realistic modern romance- which I can’t say for many contemporary authors. While, I do enjoy fantasizing, sometimes you need the harsh truth, the reality- but in a very well written way.

I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves reading contemporary romance novels like I do.

Some of my favourite quotes from the book are:

“You were let down by someone you trusted. Happens to us all.”

“He’s unfinished business. It’s bound to have stirred you up, him coming back when he did. Don’t be too sure it’s love.”

“Anything you can’t have any more starts to look more appealing.”

 

Book Review: ‘We Were on a Break’ by Lindsey Kelk

I’ve always been an ardent reader of Lindsey Kelk’s. From the first of the ‘I Heart’ series, I’ve stuck along. ‘About a Girl’ even made it to my favourite reads that formed a sort of a refuge from a crazy life.

I had been waiting to get my hands on this book by Lindsey Kelk, so the second I saw it at the bookstore here, I picked it up.

Once I started reading the book, there was no putting it down. I literally went everywhere with the book- to work, in the car, at the salon, for the car wash- you name it, I took it. I didn’t want to put it down or even risk losing it momentarily – not till I finished it.

The book is about Liv and Adam, an English couple living in a little English town. The book alternates in both their perspectives and gives us a look into both their minds. This made the story more interesting to know what was going on in both their minds.

The story begins in Mexico- where Adam is about to propose to Liv, Liv knows he’s about to propose, but he gets scared and doesn’t. To make it worse, they bicker in the flight back to London, and when dropping her home- he says he wants a break. For what joy, even Adam doesn’t know.

So the story goes on, and when he comes to apologise, she decides she wants a break. More miscommunication and no communication later, Liv assumes that Adam kissed his hot client and more silly ensues. They are likeable and normal characters, who don’t drink themselves to death, it was easy to relate to them. Even the whole list of secondary characters- Abi, David, Cass, Tom, Chris were brilliant. Chris was a ridiculously self-important older brother to Adam, Adam was a self-employed carpenter and Liv, a vet. Even Liv’s cat, Daniel Craig has some serious character sass.

Within a few pages, I was having a laughing riot- their perspectives were so easily relatable and hilarious. Kelk sure has the writing thing wrapped around well. She writes with such flow and hilarity- that it is easy to fall in love with the characters, the story, get a few wise words and continue holding the belly with laughter whirls.

There are pop culture references throughout the book, kinda reminded me of Lorelei Gilmore’s banter from Gilmore Girls. I even visioned David to be pretty much like Michel from Gilmore Girls.

While the whole book was riveting, my favourite, and perhaps the wisest part of was when Liv’s mum comes to knock some sense into her and says,

“All these couples breaking up at the first sign of trouble because they think there’s something easier around the corner- but easier does not endure. Easier is not worth time of the day.”

Even without the explanation of the context, it’s spoken in, the line does its job. The whole book sums up the importance of communication, and that if you tell your brother something, he will tell his wife, and if she’s best friends with your girlfriend- your girlfriend will know that you are about to propose.

All in all, I’d recommend it.

 

 

 

 

Book Reviews: With You or Without you by Carole Matthews

With a little more depth than your regular chicklits, With or Without You by Carole Matthews has a different flavour. I have no shame or embarrassment in saying I read Chick-lit- and a lot of it.

What’s the key plot?

Well, it’s a 30 something woman in a stable relationship trying really, really hard to have a baby. The suddenly, the boyfriend decides that he’s going to leave our baby-obsessed heroine for a younger, hotter thing at work. Our heroine, Lyssa, works as an editor for baby magazine in London and the boyfriend (ex) is in advertising.

In a misdirected attempt to make herself irresistible to an ex-lover, with a broken heart and determination to prove something (mostly to herself), she packs a rucksack and goes to the Himalayas for the easiest trek she could find. That’s where we get the front row seat to her journey of self-discovery and emotional awakening. It helps that their is a very handsome American guide- who she really falls in love with and vice versa.

When Lyssa finally returns home, she must face all the turmoil that she left behind, but with renewed energy and purpose.

What I Liked?

Most stories seem to follow the heroine and her perspective on things. I’m glad Matthews didn’t do that. She included perspective from Jake (the ex boyfriend) and Edie (Heroine’s very fertile little sister with 6 kids and 7th accidentally on the way) sides. They gave the story a 360 character story.

I found her experience over the course of the book to be quite refreshing, while being brutally honest at other times. The characters were flawed- every single one of them. And though such books would you want to hate the ex, Jake, you won’t because you know his side of the story. Albeit, it’s a little douche-y but it still made me feel bad for the guy.

Edie’s narration as very interesting and humorous, and probably made for my favourite parts.

 

What I wished they did more of-

So there was Pip, Jake’s best friend, who was very frequent. I was somewhere, rooting for him. He had been in love with Lyssa, for a while, and was probably the only sound character in the book with a little wisdom. I would have loved for Lyssa to actually go to Pip. That would have been nice, but also would have made Pip a not-nice friend, but they didn’t, so he isn’t. Even till the end, when he was trying to hint Lyssa about his feelings for her, he was rooting for her get back together with Jake. That’s the nicest guy right there.

I also think, there should have been a chapter about the hot American guide- Dean. I would have loved to know what went in that head of his- and I wish he had a larger character description.

 

That said, it was interesting till the very end. It was a very real interpretation of life and it’s problems and how people react, and realisations,  breeding families and a slightly flawed, yet witty heroine.