Last-Minute Love

Year of the Chick #2

by Romi Moondi

What's a girl to do when she meets the Internet man of her dreams, he's better than she expected, but he lives an ocean away? And let's not forget her parents,who are trying to lock her up in arranged-marriage doom...

In this fast-paced story of culture clash and romantic pursuits, there's a big fat Indian wedding, the struggle to keep a long-distance flame alive, and an unexpected mystery man who could set a new course in motion.

All the while, our heroine abandons what was once an all-consuming man-search, which helps her remember the person she used to be, and the person she hopes to become; the history-loving nerd, the hopeless romantic, and the emerging author with dreams of ditching the corporate rat race.

This is the book of living in the moment, making the grand gesture, and putting it all on the line. This is when Romi Narindra comes alive...

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"Last-Minute Love" is book two in the fictional "Year of the Chick" series. It follows closely from book one, but contains enough detail to be read as a stand-alone.
LENGTH: 74,000 or approximately 280 pages
DISCLAIMER: this book contains occasional F-bombs and mild sexual references; hide your daughters!

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Humor, Womens Fiction, Adventure, Contemporary Romance

292 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 6, 2012

About the author

Romi Moondi is a Canadian writer who primarily writes rom-coms with the aim to make you laugh, activate your heartstrings, and possibly even 'get some dust in your eye' on occasion.

When she's not writing novels, Romi can be found dreaming up screenplays, copywriting for clients, travelling, trying out new recipes, and loving Seinfeld forever.

Next up: A brand new version of 24 HOURS IN PARIS (completely different from the one currently on Wattpad) will be available online and in bookstores on May 10th!

Ways to interact:
Twitter: romimoondi
Instagram: romimoondi
Wattpad: romimoondi
Facebook Author Page: http://www.facebook.com/RomiMoondi
Blog: http://romimoondi.wordpress.com

Reviews

[Meredith Schorr · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this sequel to Year of the Chick, almost 30-year-old Romi has moved beyond her obsession with meeting a man on her own in order to avoid the traditional set-up by her Canadian/Indian parents to focusing on publishing the novel to go along with her blog. Things are going fine until her "no man" weekend in NYC brings her face-to-face with a man who just might be her soulmate.

I really enjoyed the second installment in this series and agree that the author's writing improved which, as an author myself, is something to which most writers aspire. I found Romi much more likeable this time-around and continued to appreciate the humorous banter between her and the other characters, especially Laura and Erik. Additionally, the family relationships felt a bit warmer to me without losing the consistency with the first novel. I absolutely felt the chemistry with Erik and spent a majority of the book swooning over him. I didn't think it was necessary to go into so much detail about self-publishing because at times it felt like the author was giving me a lesson. Finally, while the ending was inspiring, it wasn't the ending I wanted by a long-shot. There was a point in the book where my heart felt like it was aching and I'm still thinking about it now. For the author's sake, I really hope that portion of the book was not based on her own experiences. I won't give anything away but if you read the book, you will know what I'm talking about.

[Sonia Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting and entertaining

This continuation of book one keeps me rooting for Romo as time pass on and she is looking for love. Great adventures life ahead. Can't wait to read book three.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Year of the Chick we met sassy Indian-Canadian Romi Narindra, a twenty-seven year old non-traditionalist who embarked on a twelve month man-quest, and had been given a reprieve from being set up with a dreaded arranged marriage by her strict Indian traditionalist parents. When the story ended, Romi had met up with her internet "love" interest, English screenwriter James Caldwell in a whirlwind trip to New York City.

Now in Last-Minute Love, the second book in the Year of the Chick series, Romi has just turned twenty-nine, is still hell bent on not being set up with an arranged marriage by her parents, and has put her quest for finding love on hold in order to concentrate on following her dream to become a writer. With her parents concentrating on her sister Neema's upcoming wedding, Romi is unwillingly recruited to help in the wedding plans while Neema unleashes her inner Bridezilla. A quick escape trip from wedding plan hell to New York City with friends, which Romi dubs the "man-free, mini-break," is anything but that when she meets Danish investment banker Erik Thomson. But Romi sets her sights on concentrating on herself this time around as she dreams about going to Paris and gets ready to self-publish her first novel, Year of the Chick. So come along with Romi as her journey continues ....

Just like in Year of the Chick, author Romi Moondi's second book in the series, Last-Minute Love was another fun read that kept me entertained and in stitches. Written in the quirky first person narrative, sassy Romi Narindra continues on her adventurous journey of self-discovery, while taking the reader along for the ride. The author does a wonderful job of seamlessly picking up the storyline where it left off in book one of the series, I really enjoyed catching up with what had been going on in Romi's life. Rich in detail and wonderful descriptions of the settings, the author once again transports her readers to Toronto and New York City. I loved the descriptions of the settings, it was like taking a virtual guided tour of the various establishments and landmarks that make up both cities. This time around, Romi's story evolves beyond her quest to find love, we actually get to see her grow as she concentrates on obtaining what she wants out of her life. The author continues to weave a humorous and endearing fictional saga that is inspired and based loosely on her life.

I loved the characters, their individual quirky personalities and fun-loving camaraderie made the story so much fun to follow. I especially loved our heroine Romi, her witty, sarcastic and downright funny personality and sense of humor kept me snickering. The supporting cast of characters, quirky dialogue and interactions, and some pretty hysterical antics makes this book and the Year of the Chick series a thoroughly engaging and entertaining read. I look forward to reading the third book in the series, I can't wait to see what new adventures Romi will take us on!

Last-Minute Love is a fun-loving, laugh-out-loud story that celebrates the inner spirit of a young woman as she journeys down the road of life. Filled with humor and heartwarming moments, this story will make you smile and might even bring out your own inner sassiness!


Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus.

http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romi from Year of the Chick is back, see my review of the first book. Now, that Romi's sister is engaged her parents are a bit more distracted. So, in this book her parents weren't pushing guys at her as much, though they did still have that expectation, maybe Romi was just better at ignoring it and didn't need to focus on it with her readers. In this one we hear about the success of the first book, but which is also really important, you could read the book on it's own and it can stand on it's own.

Again, this book was set up in a way that you wanted to just keep reading and figure out how Romi is going to deal with each of the situations. Personally, I think I enjoyed this novel more than Year of the Chick since you got to see more of Romi as a character. You could see how she had grown and changed through the last book, between them, and could continue to grow. She still got caught up in a guy in this plot, but there was more to her than just the guy and her writing this time. You knew her, I felt like this time. She talked about what she enjoyed in her spare time, beyond writing, you got to know some of her friends and more than just how she took her problems to them. It felt deeper and more about the character than the first one to me, even though I enjoyed the first one, I feel like I enjoyed this one more. Romi made some great growth as a character and I can't wait to see what happens with her next chapter in the series.

I am conflicted on the rating to give this book. It is a enjoyable book, again not an intro to the chick lit genre, but a relatable book in the genre and worth reading. Still found it different then any chick lit book, I would give it 3.5 stars I think to show I liked it more than the first, but I just don't feel like it is necessarily a 4 star all the way. I will round up though. And do go read this because, Romi becomes a character that you care about and want to succeed, in love, standing up to her parents, and just being herself in the way she dreams.


This review is part of chick lit plus blog tours.

I was provided a copy of the book for review, but the summary and thoughts on the book are mine.

[Na Deela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse you Erik! Curse you I say! Ok, before it's too late to keep this spoiler free, I better take a deep breath and calm myself...

Ok, so I just finished this book and I'm dying. I can't believe I have to wait til next year or later for the next book! I mean, I understand, Ms. Moondi DOES have a life, but ahh the agony! I'm going to have to find something else to read to distract myself so I don't go nuts!

Just like with "Year of the Chick," I could barely put this book down. I was trapped in it, barely noticing the world around me. I laughed, I nearly cried, I was seriously in the story following Romi around. I don't know why, but I can totally relate to her. We are a lot alike and even seem to have the same taste in men LOL.

Book 2 was a great continuation of the story. We see what Romi's up to now back in Canada from seeing James in New York, we get to experience and Indian wedding (that was really fun), we get some interesting insight on her job, I liked that there was a fight between friends, it made them more real. Real friends aren't going to just tell you what you want to hear ALL the time.

In book 3, I'd like to see Laura's big day, Eleanor and Amy each with someone special, more of James, a shamed Erik on his knees, and Romi with a happy ending. She really deserves one!

I'm a romantic, I can't help it.

[Laura Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romi Moondi's hilarious story-telling is back with Last Minute Love, the sequel to her equally entertaining Year of the Chick.

When we last saw Romi Narinda, she had just met the man she's been chatting up for a whirlwind day in New York City. Though she thinks she may have found Mr. Right, she still has to deal with those pesky parents who have big plans for her.

Moondi has a strong and funny story-telling voice, which makes the story a fast-paced read. Even when faced with bad moments, Romi the character's quirky personality will have you laughing again within a few moments.

This time around, Romi spends less of her time looking for a man, like she did in Book One, and more looking to complete other parts of her life -- like her lackluster career in corporate Hell and following her ambitions to become the person she wants.


In the sequel, she continues to navigate the challenges that come with her constantly clashing world where she takes a more active role in the outcome, which is fun and empowering to watch unfold.

Aside from Romi Narinda, the other characters in this story add a decent amount of humor and drama.

If you are a fan of chick lit who enjoys watching a 20-something get her life together, Last Minute Love is a solid read.

[Samantha March · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romi Moondi is a hilarious chick lit writer that I feel fortunate that I have come to know. Year of the Chick was an introduction to Romi Narindra, and the second in the series, Last Minute Love, picks right back up. Romi is still talking occasionally to the guy she met online but who is geographically unavailable, her parents are still trying to arrange-marry her, and Romi still feels a bit lost. But finally abandoning the search for Mr. Right and figuring out what truly makes Romi happy sets her on a path that finally gives Romi hope that maybe self-happiness is just around the corner.

The second in the series is just as fast-paced as the first, and a very enjoyable read. I don’t feel it’s absolutely necessary to read the first in order to read this one, but I definitely recommend it, just because it’s such a fun book. I loved following Romi’s journey and seeing her move on from being a bit man-crazy to searching for self-discovery. I’m fairly positive I’m correct when I say there will be a third in the series, and I will be watching for it!

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received the Year of the Chick free and loved it so much, I bought Last-Minute Love the next day. Romi reminds me of a Canadian Bridget Jones only she is wearing an Indian sari and lives with her parents. Like a cultural diverse Bridget, Romi looks for love in all the wrong places and for the wrong reasons. I loved Romi's peculiar behavior and quotable humor of these two books, and found myself laughing at loud more than once.
The writing in the second book has improved from the first book. The prose is better and the other characters are more developed and Romi, herself, is more likable. (But the first book is good as well, just a little short.) I am very happy with the character development of Romi in the second book esp. at the end. I am looking forward to reading the third book of this series.

[Teleia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the first book, "Year of the Chick". This book was a lot better. Not only was the writing better, but I became emotionally involved and really felt for Romi. I was rooting for her and proud of her. Not once did I want to give her a kick in the pants like I did a few times in the first book.

I really enjoy the romance, of course. But I also quite like Romi's struggle to integrate her Canadian and Indian cultures. And Romi is funny. LOL funny. On more than one occasion.

I suggest reading the first one so you're ready for this one.

[SalScamander · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this book, but I couldn't give it a five star. I like the writing style, and some of the humour in the book. Her character is likeable, some of the book is funny. My issue with this book is, her morals. The book seems to romanticise the idea that, it is okay to have affairs with unavailable men. I didn't mean like that, this is the second book this week written by an Asian author who writes about characters that sleep with, or steal other people's men. I know the trying to make these Asian characters westernised, but to me it just makes them look trashy instead.

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This continues the thinly disguised (I suspect) trilogy about Romi´s attempt to have a private life despite her Indian parents who just want to get her married off before she gets "too old". Meantime she is still corresponding with her Internet guy, but has met another unavailable guy, a Dane who is working in New York (a friend of one of her girlfriends´ boyfriend) but has a girlfriend back in Denmark. Still, Erik thinks a lot like she does, and seems to be attracted to her as well. A Rom-Com with an edge, you just have to keep going to see what´s going to happen next!

[Karey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this 3rd book in the Year of the Chick series. It really felt to me like Romi finally found her voice. She found the courage to make her own decisions and lead her life as a strong, independent woman. I had SO much hope for her relationship with Erik and found myself loving him one minute and hating him the next. I don't know if a 4th book is planned but I would love to see Romi find true happiness with the French man of her dreams!

[Dustyloup · Rating 2 out of 5]

So... Perhaps I've read too many romance novels.... Perhaps I expected more of this one from an independent author. In the end I just didn't like this book and main character. Her backstory seemed interesting - a Canadian-Indian with tradition parents looking for love in a modern world. However, too much tell; not enough show and my least favorite kind of main character - the struggling writer. Aughhhh please no.

[TJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2. Starts off where book one left which I like. With the new changes in her life Romi progresses as well. Although she still makes mistakes she owns up to them a little quicker than before. My heart broke for her to take a chance with Erik but at the same time she could have nipped it in bed by reminding him that he had a loyal girlfriend back home. And yet....the heart wants what the heart wants. Which is want I like about this book Romi follows her heart.

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sequel to Year of the chick! I'm still in a love hate relationship with this author. She is hilarious! Lover her voice and her squad. But I kept wanting for the smut! Maybe I'm a perv but this book could have used a little more action! It was all foreplay and the "big o" never came!

Just a little too grade school for "chick-lit" it's more like young adult. This is the perfect book for middle schoolers as its way more tame than the Judy Blume books we all read in secret when I was a kid.

[Chandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

What more can I say besides "I loved it"...I can't wait for more!

I am sure it is too much to hope for to find a similiar writing style in another author while I wait fir boom 3...if anyone has any hints please share!

*sigh*

[Kay Mcaloney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was definitely a chick-lit but I really liked it and couldn't put it down. I loved the main character and her view on life. The author has such a way with words that I really enjoyed it and would recommend it. I will be going back to read book one and look forward to book three.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great follow-up to Year of the Chick that had me on the edge of my seat. All of the humor of the first book, with lots more romance and suspense. Moondi has a knack for writing funny and intelligent chick lit. If you like the genre, I can't say enough good things about this series.

[Nancy Kennedy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute autobiographical chick lit--Indian-Canadian style. Enjoyed reading about the trials and tribulations of a 29-year-old unmarried Indian woman who still lives at home with her parents in Toronto while juggling a corporate promotions job with self publishing a novel. Witty and sweet.

[tinaleiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Year of the Chick series

I could not put this book down! I laughed and cried for Romi, she truly is an inspiring woman with amazing friends. I can't wait to find out what's in store for her next. Will she ever find that everlasting love.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't Put It Down

Love the snarky humor, the growth of the character and how the author allows the reader to think and feel without spelling it out in mundane paragraphs. Ready for Book number 3!

[Lynne Reddinger · Rating 3 out of 5]

another good summer read!

[Janice Novick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Roni Moondi - looking forward to her next book

[Charleen Marx sowards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got Year of the Chick free, read it in mere hours (couldn't put it down!) and had to buy this one immediately. I can't wait for the third installment of Romi's adventures.

[Rachel Elsasser · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading both books in a week, I am now anxiously awaiting book 3!! Definitely recommended!!

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly entertaining. I found myself routing for Romi and feeling exhilarated and sad along with her.

[Marg · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a fun gal book that will make you chuckle and grin!

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great follow up to Year of the Chick. I loved seeing the same characters and a new twist to the same plot. This book left me wanting the 3rd in the series right away.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know this book is a girl's journey to find herself but I can't help wonder who she'll end up with. I'm rooting for Erik for sure!

[Nina · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was even better than the first. You can tell the main character is growing in maturity and is a little less crazy. Very funny yet again.