I
picked up this book only to make myself eligible for free-shipping. I resist
myself from books written by women (Indian) mainly to avoid soap operas. The
last fiction that I read from a lady author was “Dollar Bahu” which reinstated
my belief. So, this book lied in my library for a couple of months. After
reading the book, I did curse myself for being judgmental, but my premonition
was almost right.
Tea
for two and a cup of cake is a breezy practical story. It explores the life of
a plump middle aged woman and the people who influence her life. Nisha is
lovable character whose characteristics make you love her instantly. You cannot
stop yourself from loving her and being on her side during adversities. She is
just one of us, who goes through the emotions in life and decides instantly.
Her life has a big void because of her childhood and those thoughts come again
and again to taunt her. Her first date is so vividly explained that you find
yourself in the Magellan party along with her and Samir. The international trip
and intense romance elevates the story and takes it to the much awaited
wedding. The way in which Nisha collects herself after the break-up and carries
herself in the society is laudable. Nisha’s characterization is neat, bold and
refreshing. It gives a sneak-peak into the upper-middle class society. The
high-end parties, the get-togethers and the food are explained elaborately.
However,
I found Nisha very vulnerable and wanting. I assume that her bad childhood
serves as a catalyst that makes her fall on every possible occasion. The author
has tried to portray Nisha as someone who does not want to depend on others,
but her proximity to Akash and her expectations from Chetana clearly rebukes
her claim. Also, the way in which Chetana’s character ended, left a bad taste.
The author tries to reemphasize that Nisha was right and drags the other
characters.
The
2 characters that I loved the most are Mrs.B and Samir Sharma. Mrs. B had a
very brief role but was likable from the start. Her cakes added flavor to the
story. Mrs. B is the kind of neighbor, which everyone would love to have. Samir
Sharma, Nisha’s husband was high-society personified. Right from the beginning
[the phone call] his character travels in a single plane. He is a go-getter who
does not wish to sacrifice his needs for others. He can be lenient with his
preferences but only to a certain extent. He runs behind success and gets it.
He is the typical business man who wins in business but fails in life. His
email is one of the best chapters in the book. He explains his thoughts in an
uncomplicated, uncluttered way. He blames Nisha for everything but makes sure
that he does his part. His character, though it is shown in grey (or black) is
certainly adorable.
The
picturesque locations of Pondicherry and ECR add more fun towards the end. The
new characters were just add-ons who come just to give a happy-ending. The
story ends in an all is well position, where the author makes Nisha and the
readers happy.
As a
book, this is wonderful. The writing is precise and picturesque. The vocabulary
used is rich but not daunting. It is breezy and easy-going unlike many other
novels which leave a lump in the throat. It is a story to be read in an hour or
two, if you have to kill time. You don’t get anything interesting out of this
book but for some predictable twists and interesting choice of words.
Just
another feel-good novel
