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All the Missing Words
Dive into the delightful chaos of Vrinda's life as she navigates an unexpected thunderstorm, writerly woes, and love in the cozy confines of Marshall's Book Cafe in Pune. Join her on a 12-hour literary escapade, sparking not just creative revelations but a chance encounter that might rewrite her own love story.
All the Missing Words
is a contemporary romcom celebrating books, serendipity, and the unexpected yet universal struggles of writers everywhere.
61 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
February 9, 2024
Where are the best first dates? Bookstores, of course! Monica Singh’s ‘All the Missing Words’ is a meet-cute set in a bookstore.
Vrinda, attends a book launch at Marshall café where she has a heart-to-heart with Sanyal, a writer. The incessant rains compel the audience to remain in the café for several hours. Here, Vrinda meets Madhav, a gentle giant whom she is attracted to. The novella revolves around the conversations Vrinda has with Sanyal and Madhav that make her introspect about words, love, and life in general. The protagonist embarks on a literary escapade, sheds her vulnerabilities, and eventually emerges from her chrysalis.
Why do we write? What if we never got published? How many of us can afford to quit our jobs to follow our passion? These are some of the pertinent thought-provoking questions the author raises. Many beautiful lines capture a writer’s insecurities, their passion for creating, and their trials and tribulations. Here is an excerpt:
“I remember deciding then that I would write. Write like the people whose books I was reading. Write to be the one with the magic they had; to leap out of the pages and connect with people out there. With the hope that someone, somewhere, someday could read what I write and think to themselves that here it is! These are all the words I was missing!"
The humour shines in this novella; relatives nodding in sync, Baskin Robbins having more flavours than an individual’s life, volumes of books on fire hydrants, and many such nuggets make the reader chuckle with delight.
The setting is contemporary and very cozy. A perfect read for a rainy day. If you are an aspiring author grab a few tissues; some paras do hit hard. What I felt could be developed better is the romance between Vrinda and Madhav, more so because Madhav is overshadowed by Sanyal. I do hope there is a sequel (All the words regained?) featuring Vrinda and Madhav, with loads of cute bookish moments! Looking forward to it!
Vrinda, attends a book launch at Marshall café where she has a heart-to-heart with Sanyal, a writer. The incessant rains compel the audience to remain in the café for several hours. Here, Vrinda meets Madhav, a gentle giant whom she is attracted to. The novella revolves around the conversations Vrinda has with Sanyal and Madhav that make her introspect about words, love, and life in general. The protagonist embarks on a literary escapade, sheds her vulnerabilities, and eventually emerges from her chrysalis.
Why do we write? What if we never got published? How many of us can afford to quit our jobs to follow our passion? These are some of the pertinent thought-provoking questions the author raises. Many beautiful lines capture a writer’s insecurities, their passion for creating, and their trials and tribulations. Here is an excerpt:
“I remember deciding then that I would write. Write like the people whose books I was reading. Write to be the one with the magic they had; to leap out of the pages and connect with people out there. With the hope that someone, somewhere, someday could read what I write and think to themselves that here it is! These are all the words I was missing!"
The humour shines in this novella; relatives nodding in sync, Baskin Robbins having more flavours than an individual’s life, volumes of books on fire hydrants, and many such nuggets make the reader chuckle with delight.
The setting is contemporary and very cozy. A perfect read for a rainy day. If you are an aspiring author grab a few tissues; some paras do hit hard. What I felt could be developed better is the romance between Vrinda and Madhav, more so because Madhav is overshadowed by Sanyal. I do hope there is a sequel (All the words regained?) featuring Vrinda and Madhav, with loads of cute bookish moments! Looking forward to it!
January 29, 2024
'All the Missing Words' by Monica Singh is a cute-sy romance that makes one fall in love with meet-cutes and stomach butterflies. Vrinda's advent on an unlikely event, and her subsequent involvement in the group engagements, owing to seclusion due to incessant rain, are warm and relatable. Vrinda's character has been so beautifully etched that it seems like the author has live her. Perhaps.
The narration of the story is smooth. I have been a witness to the author's previous works and this one is a little upbeat in its flow and presentation. The language is contemporary so everyone will be able to enjoy it. Some of the lines are beautifully incorporated in the narrative that make one bite into the thoughts of the author even more. Sample this-
"If you haven't already, ask someone why they do the things they love and bear witness to one of nature's most miraculous truths- true happiness can always be found within us, if only we dare to look."
"I remember I was in a dark place. Then I discovered books and many, many worlds within books, the sheer scope of the possibility, the power that life holds. They told me that I didn't have to be in the dark. That I could bring in the light if I wanted to. That I always had a choice, even when it seems like I didn't."
The other two main characters who made their appearance, amidst secondary characters, are Sanyal and Madhav. Since the event was Sanyal's book launch a lot is exposed through his thoughts, his conversations with Vrinda, and his book reading. The equation whic he shares with his other friends is also deftly attributed.
Madhav is a broody character, quintessential to romances, I guess. I did like the way he is portrayed, however, I would've liked a bit more interaction between him and Vrinda to have known him a bit more. Considering the way the story promises to progress, and the hook it has been left at, Madhav deserved a little more.
On the whole, this is a feel-good, quick read and I totally dig romances that make my hear flutter. It is a quick read, so I'd suggest all romance diggers to grab it pronto. And enjoy the breeze!
The narration of the story is smooth. I have been a witness to the author's previous works and this one is a little upbeat in its flow and presentation. The language is contemporary so everyone will be able to enjoy it. Some of the lines are beautifully incorporated in the narrative that make one bite into the thoughts of the author even more. Sample this-
"If you haven't already, ask someone why they do the things they love and bear witness to one of nature's most miraculous truths- true happiness can always be found within us, if only we dare to look."
"I remember I was in a dark place. Then I discovered books and many, many worlds within books, the sheer scope of the possibility, the power that life holds. They told me that I didn't have to be in the dark. That I could bring in the light if I wanted to. That I always had a choice, even when it seems like I didn't."
The other two main characters who made their appearance, amidst secondary characters, are Sanyal and Madhav. Since the event was Sanyal's book launch a lot is exposed through his thoughts, his conversations with Vrinda, and his book reading. The equation whic he shares with his other friends is also deftly attributed.
Madhav is a broody character, quintessential to romances, I guess. I did like the way he is portrayed, however, I would've liked a bit more interaction between him and Vrinda to have known him a bit more. Considering the way the story promises to progress, and the hook it has been left at, Madhav deserved a little more.
On the whole, this is a feel-good, quick read and I totally dig romances that make my hear flutter. It is a quick read, so I'd suggest all romance diggers to grab it pronto. And enjoy the breeze!
March 21, 2024
New day. New Year. New energy fills me. Here is the new book I read today to make my new year look special and like a good admin, I will inaugurate the event called Book Reviewing with the review of the novella All the Missing Words.
I'm at loss of words for the writing prowess of Monica Singh who has doled out a hilarious, cho chweet chiku chiku type of love story. No it is not at all like those sugar candies that just give you a momentary high. It has a distinct, genuine flavor that comes from an individual's personal space.
The story begins with Vrinda's love-hate relationship with the OLA cabs and ends with a hope that a real, Olalala love story will begin for her. Forgive me for the Ola joke but the writer takes great care to uplift your mood with her tongue-in-cheek humor. There were moments where I was like, 'Shit! This happens with me so many times!' That is how I closely resonated with the book.
I can't give you lot of details as the book is a short one in Kindle format. I finished it in 1hr flat. But certain things are to be enjoyed in a shorter format. Tequila shots. Or else they give you a feeling of drinking haldiwala doodh-long and strenuous torture forced upon by parents. Crazy reviewing? That is how the book is in parts but reflective in the end.
Some of my absolute favorite quotes from the book
"I recommend it to everyone. If you haven’t already, ask someone why they do the things they love and bear witness to one of nature’s most miraculous truths – true happiness can always be found within us, if only we dare to look."
"Yes, bookshops have wisdom, much more than people sometimes."
One last one where I found my hidden voice,
"I will write no matter what. I will write as I live and I will write as I die. Does it matter what they think of me? Will it change the way I approach my writing? No, probably not."
So, I began my new year on a fantastic note! Tell me, what you are reading today? If nothing, then why not delve into the world of All The Missing Words?
I'm at loss of words for the writing prowess of Monica Singh who has doled out a hilarious, cho chweet chiku chiku type of love story. No it is not at all like those sugar candies that just give you a momentary high. It has a distinct, genuine flavor that comes from an individual's personal space.
The story begins with Vrinda's love-hate relationship with the OLA cabs and ends with a hope that a real, Olalala love story will begin for her. Forgive me for the Ola joke but the writer takes great care to uplift your mood with her tongue-in-cheek humor. There were moments where I was like, 'Shit! This happens with me so many times!' That is how I closely resonated with the book.
I can't give you lot of details as the book is a short one in Kindle format. I finished it in 1hr flat. But certain things are to be enjoyed in a shorter format. Tequila shots. Or else they give you a feeling of drinking haldiwala doodh-long and strenuous torture forced upon by parents. Crazy reviewing? That is how the book is in parts but reflective in the end.
Some of my absolute favorite quotes from the book
"I recommend it to everyone. If you haven’t already, ask someone why they do the things they love and bear witness to one of nature’s most miraculous truths – true happiness can always be found within us, if only we dare to look."
"Yes, bookshops have wisdom, much more than people sometimes."
One last one where I found my hidden voice,
"I will write no matter what. I will write as I live and I will write as I die. Does it matter what they think of me? Will it change the way I approach my writing? No, probably not."
So, I began my new year on a fantastic note! Tell me, what you are reading today? If nothing, then why not delve into the world of All The Missing Words?
January 3, 2024
A feel good story about a writer, a book launch and fate that plays the spoilsport. Or should I say matchmaker?
Vrinda is an introvert and wannabe writer living in Pune. One day she goes to a favourite cafe-cum-bookstore of hers, only to find that a book launch has been scheduled there. The unpredictable Pune weather shows its true colours and it starts raining cats and dogs, ensuring Vrinda is the only attendee other than the author's family and friends.
As the rain comes down in buckets, essentially isolating the little group, they cannot help but get together to celebrate the book launch, and know each other a bit through their words, spoken and written. A little glimpse into some which has certain possibilities.
The narration is smooth. I could see where Vrindaa is coming from. Her character has been etched well. Her insecurities, the imposter syndrome that many authors suffer from, and her love for writing; all are portrayed very deftly. Even Neil Gaiman makes an appearance in the story.
Sanyal and Madhav are the other two main characters. Sanyal is developed well. His thoughts, actions, and mannerism are done thoughtfully. However, I thought that for the story to take the turn it did, the character of Madhav needed more development.
The pace is steady and the writing is straightforward which makes the reader focus on the plot. The banter among the people is believable and brings a smile to the reader's face. The end is left on a hopeful note which I think is a good decision.
I enjoyed this little story. Looking forward to more from the author.
Vrinda is an introvert and wannabe writer living in Pune. One day she goes to a favourite cafe-cum-bookstore of hers, only to find that a book launch has been scheduled there. The unpredictable Pune weather shows its true colours and it starts raining cats and dogs, ensuring Vrinda is the only attendee other than the author's family and friends.
As the rain comes down in buckets, essentially isolating the little group, they cannot help but get together to celebrate the book launch, and know each other a bit through their words, spoken and written. A little glimpse into some which has certain possibilities.
The narration is smooth. I could see where Vrindaa is coming from. Her character has been etched well. Her insecurities, the imposter syndrome that many authors suffer from, and her love for writing; all are portrayed very deftly. Even Neil Gaiman makes an appearance in the story.
Sanyal and Madhav are the other two main characters. Sanyal is developed well. His thoughts, actions, and mannerism are done thoughtfully. However, I thought that for the story to take the turn it did, the character of Madhav needed more development.
The pace is steady and the writing is straightforward which makes the reader focus on the plot. The banter among the people is believable and brings a smile to the reader's face. The end is left on a hopeful note which I think is a good decision.
I enjoyed this little story. Looking forward to more from the author.
February 4, 2024
"An Escapade of Words: A Review of 'All the Missing Words' by Monica"
Dive into the delightful chaos of Vrinda's life as she navigates an unexpected thunderstorm, writerly woes, and love in the cozy confines of Marshall's Book Cafe in Pune. Join her on a 12-hour literary escapade, sparking not just creative revelations but a chance encounter that might rewrite her own love story. "All the Missing Words" is a contemporary romcom celebrating books, serendipity, and the unexpected yet universal struggles of writers.
Monica writes with ease, bringing forth a small book filled with literary excellence. She begins with a quote from Anne Lamott's "Bird by Bird," one of my favorite books.
“You are lucky to be one of those people who wishes to build sand castles with words, willing to create a place where your imagination can wander. We build this place with the sand of memories; these castles are our memories and inventiveness made tangible. So part of us believes that when the tide starts coming in, we won’t really have lost anything because only a symbol of it was there in the sand. Another part of us thinks we’ll figure out a way to divert the ocean. This is what separates artists from ordinary people: the belief, deep in our hearts, that if we build our castles well enough, somehow the ocean won’t wash them away. I think this is a wonderful kind of person to be.” ― Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
This quick, bite-sized coffee book provided me with a thoroughly enjoyable 12-hour literary escapade in just 1 hour. Great work, Monica Singh
Dive into the delightful chaos of Vrinda's life as she navigates an unexpected thunderstorm, writerly woes, and love in the cozy confines of Marshall's Book Cafe in Pune. Join her on a 12-hour literary escapade, sparking not just creative revelations but a chance encounter that might rewrite her own love story. "All the Missing Words" is a contemporary romcom celebrating books, serendipity, and the unexpected yet universal struggles of writers.
Monica writes with ease, bringing forth a small book filled with literary excellence. She begins with a quote from Anne Lamott's "Bird by Bird," one of my favorite books.
“You are lucky to be one of those people who wishes to build sand castles with words, willing to create a place where your imagination can wander. We build this place with the sand of memories; these castles are our memories and inventiveness made tangible. So part of us believes that when the tide starts coming in, we won’t really have lost anything because only a symbol of it was there in the sand. Another part of us thinks we’ll figure out a way to divert the ocean. This is what separates artists from ordinary people: the belief, deep in our hearts, that if we build our castles well enough, somehow the ocean won’t wash them away. I think this is a wonderful kind of person to be.” ― Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
This quick, bite-sized coffee book provided me with a thoroughly enjoyable 12-hour literary escapade in just 1 hour. Great work, Monica Singh
January 31, 2025
A delightful novella by the author. It was the first work I read by Monica Singh but will not definetly be the last.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews