Top positive review
4.0 out of 5 starsA sensitive, novel story
Reviewed in India 🇮🇳 on 17 May 2022
A fan of Sundari Venkatraman's work, her books are always worth the wait.
This is a story about Krutika who is madly in love with her step-brother Darsh. At 13, she vehemently declares in front of her family that she is going to marry Darsh, who is barely 17. Amused and a little miffed, Darsh does not reciprocate her feelings. He has charted his own path, has already planned for his future and 'love' has no place in it. Also keeping in mind the complicated nature of their relationship, he does not want to do anything that might shake the status quo of the family. As they grow up, Krutika's love never diminishes, and she chases Darsh relentlessly, but to no avail. Until the parents intervene. Karan and Deepshikha understand the dilemma of their kids and handle the matter with utmost sensitivity it requires. What is in store for Krutika and Darsh? Will Darsh ever take Krutika seriously?
The entire story which spans from the teens to adulthood beautifully depicts the various emotions and feelings a person in love goes through, and how their love matures with age. Krutika is adamant, bold, straightforward girl, who in a way is still childish and a babe in the woods. Darsh is responsible, an intelligent young man who maturely handles Krutika's attention until he's absolutely sure about what he wants. But for me, the highlight of the book were definitely the parents. Right from treating all three kids alike with maturity, I loved how they were a pillar of support for Krutika, and not making her lose face for being in love. Also the relationship between Karan and Darsh is beautiful. They are the role models of how parenting should be done; with unconditional love and understanding. Myra and Grandfather Gulshan were super sweet.
A novel story with intricate family dynamics, executed with grace and delicacy, this one is definitely recommended.
