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The Second Coming
Mini plans fairytale weddings, but she knows there are no fairytale marriages. The initial magic of her own marriage with Shyam has vanished, leaving behind a hunger that she tries to assuage with chocolates. She fantasizes about a ‘dream lover’, but she is over the hill, overweight and unconfident. The chances of tumbling into a passionate intrigue with a gorgeous man are bleak, she thinks. Or are they? For, not so far away, in Mumbai, the glamour capital, the scion of an erstwhile royal family has decided to wed a Bollywood starlet, and Mini is soon on her way to plan this ‘no-budget’ wedding with the enticing Rustom – head of the city office, handsome, sophisticated, and every bit the ladies’ man. It doesn’t take Mini long to decide that if Rustom is a skirt-chaser, she is going to shape up and get into the kind of skirts he likes to chase. Is Rustom the ‘dream lover’ she has been hunting or is Sicko Shyam going to drag her back to the dregs of their marriage? Either way, the Second Coming promises to be steamy and full of trouble and hilarity – not always at her expense.
- GenresRomance
7 pages, Audiobook
First published January 1, 2014
35 people want to read
About the author
Shubha Menon
5 books22 followersShort bio:
Shubha Menon is the author of two books. Her first book, The Second Coming is a tragiComedy and has been published by HarperCollins India.
http://preview.tinyurl.com/pqheoym
http://preview.tinyurl.com/nvcu9m2
Her second book is RESILIENCE: Stories of Muslim Women, narrative non fiction, published by Frontpage Publications.
https://tinyurl.com/y34z4kz2
A copywriter who dropped the 'copy', she is a writing coach and a practising Buddhist. She dreams of living in the hills where she can read, write and grow climbing roses. She lives in Delhi with her husband,
daughter and two Dachshunds.
Shubha Menon is the author of two books. Her first book, The Second Coming is a tragiComedy and has been published by HarperCollins India.
http://preview.tinyurl.com/pqheoym
http://preview.tinyurl.com/nvcu9m2
Her second book is RESILIENCE: Stories of Muslim Women, narrative non fiction, published by Frontpage Publications.
https://tinyurl.com/y34z4kz2
A copywriter who dropped the 'copy', she is a writing coach and a practising Buddhist. She dreams of living in the hills where she can read, write and grow climbing roses. She lives in Delhi with her husband,
daughter and two Dachshunds.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 13, 2016
Shubha Menon did a fantastic job. This is rom-com with a lot of comedy and lot of romance. In fact it has more humor and satire than comedy.
Review can be found here too http://rajanmogha.blogspot.in/2016/05...
Our heroine Mrinalini Mehta aka Mini is a happily married woman who is also regarded highly in her office also. She lives happily with her hubby Shyam Mehta who is a cricket enthusiast. Her boss Mahatta calls her Mrinalini and regards her as a top notch wedding planner. But is she happy? No. why?
“It was not as though Shyam was a bad husband. Far from it. He was a good provider. They lived comfortably. He made a loving father to polka, spoiling her, bending backwards to fulfil her every whim. Mini cared for Shyam and was dependent on him in many ways. It was just that their marriage had degenerated into some kind of listless, mechanical routine, where they went to office, came back, ate, slept and then left for work again the next morning. The excitement has fizzled out, never to return. She knew that Shyam cared for her and she was certain that there was no other women in her life. But let’s face it, Mini mused, neither one of them was exactly thrilled to see the other anymore. Shyam just didn’t make her heart beat faster.”
Sex is almost non-existent in their life. She is overweight and binge eat to fill the void inside. What does she wants then? One she wants to loose 5-7 kgs and second:
“She did want to have a relationship, but she did not believe in sex for the sake of sex. She want a beautiful episode- something to cherish and hug to herself on nights when Shyam snored to loudly or when he picked chicken out of his teeth with fingernails. Something that made her believe that Mills and Boon romances did happen, even to women like her. It was not about sex, it was about romance. It was about finding a soulmate, versus being stuck with a marriage partner”
And does she find the soulmate? Well almost. Enter Rustom, the Mumbai head who is all that what she wanted tall, dark and handsome except two little flaws. He has married for money and stuck with his wheel chair bound wife and second he is a skirt chaser and slept with many office colleagues. So she gets hot sex but not other things. He didn’t even said ‘I love you’ to her before or after making sex.
Happy Marriage is a myth and who needs marriage except marriage planners. She is aware of physical limitations and menopause is approaching fast. So she strays but regrets and doubt remains.
The novel is path breaking in the sense that its not a regular rom-com and they lived happily ever after. She enters into extra marital sex in full senses. The sex scenes are described in a very aesthetic way. Still the author has portrayed her in such a beautiful way that you never judge her or consider her as tramp. Her point of view is fully explained logically and you go with the flow of story and at no point of time you question her motives. You understand the insecurities and motivations of Mini and Sympathies with her.
In fact she herself questions and then the position is explained beautifully as someone explains to her:
The lady sighed "Love? Love doesn't just happen. It has to be worked upon over a lifetime. Because before love, comes respect and before respect, understanding..." she rambled on "And this is where women go wrong".
In the end she develops cold feet and return to Shyam. They supposedly live happily ever after. And the best part is Mini snubs Rustom and not the other way round.
That’s sums it up. The humor is top rate. She is not afraid to self deprecate her or the outlandish marriage plans they make for super rich. There is never a dull moment. The supporting characters are also funny and her friends are a riot.
Shubha Menon’s prose is brilliant. He is a good command on language and there is some very poetic moments. Though it’s a fiction but a lot of married couples will easily identify with it. There is touch of reality here which is ironic sometimes. Life sucks when you are in a rut. But as the author says this is life and there is no escaping it. The fairy tale romances are a myth and you have to come back to the roots sooner or later. These affairs are simply not worth it.
It a total Bollywood masala material. Yash Chopra camp will like it because in background throughout there is marriage going on. Lots of scope of song and dance routine. Vidya balan or Sonakshi as Mini, Abhay Deol as Rustom.
A very brilliant effort for debut novel. Full marks. Way to go Shubha.
Review can be found here too http://rajanmogha.blogspot.in/2016/05...
Our heroine Mrinalini Mehta aka Mini is a happily married woman who is also regarded highly in her office also. She lives happily with her hubby Shyam Mehta who is a cricket enthusiast. Her boss Mahatta calls her Mrinalini and regards her as a top notch wedding planner. But is she happy? No. why?
“It was not as though Shyam was a bad husband. Far from it. He was a good provider. They lived comfortably. He made a loving father to polka, spoiling her, bending backwards to fulfil her every whim. Mini cared for Shyam and was dependent on him in many ways. It was just that their marriage had degenerated into some kind of listless, mechanical routine, where they went to office, came back, ate, slept and then left for work again the next morning. The excitement has fizzled out, never to return. She knew that Shyam cared for her and she was certain that there was no other women in her life. But let’s face it, Mini mused, neither one of them was exactly thrilled to see the other anymore. Shyam just didn’t make her heart beat faster.”
Sex is almost non-existent in their life. She is overweight and binge eat to fill the void inside. What does she wants then? One she wants to loose 5-7 kgs and second:
“She did want to have a relationship, but she did not believe in sex for the sake of sex. She want a beautiful episode- something to cherish and hug to herself on nights when Shyam snored to loudly or when he picked chicken out of his teeth with fingernails. Something that made her believe that Mills and Boon romances did happen, even to women like her. It was not about sex, it was about romance. It was about finding a soulmate, versus being stuck with a marriage partner”
And does she find the soulmate? Well almost. Enter Rustom, the Mumbai head who is all that what she wanted tall, dark and handsome except two little flaws. He has married for money and stuck with his wheel chair bound wife and second he is a skirt chaser and slept with many office colleagues. So she gets hot sex but not other things. He didn’t even said ‘I love you’ to her before or after making sex.
Happy Marriage is a myth and who needs marriage except marriage planners. She is aware of physical limitations and menopause is approaching fast. So she strays but regrets and doubt remains.
The novel is path breaking in the sense that its not a regular rom-com and they lived happily ever after. She enters into extra marital sex in full senses. The sex scenes are described in a very aesthetic way. Still the author has portrayed her in such a beautiful way that you never judge her or consider her as tramp. Her point of view is fully explained logically and you go with the flow of story and at no point of time you question her motives. You understand the insecurities and motivations of Mini and Sympathies with her.
In fact she herself questions and then the position is explained beautifully as someone explains to her:
The lady sighed "Love? Love doesn't just happen. It has to be worked upon over a lifetime. Because before love, comes respect and before respect, understanding..." she rambled on "And this is where women go wrong".
In the end she develops cold feet and return to Shyam. They supposedly live happily ever after. And the best part is Mini snubs Rustom and not the other way round.
That’s sums it up. The humor is top rate. She is not afraid to self deprecate her or the outlandish marriage plans they make for super rich. There is never a dull moment. The supporting characters are also funny and her friends are a riot.
Shubha Menon’s prose is brilliant. He is a good command on language and there is some very poetic moments. Though it’s a fiction but a lot of married couples will easily identify with it. There is touch of reality here which is ironic sometimes. Life sucks when you are in a rut. But as the author says this is life and there is no escaping it. The fairy tale romances are a myth and you have to come back to the roots sooner or later. These affairs are simply not worth it.
It a total Bollywood masala material. Yash Chopra camp will like it because in background throughout there is marriage going on. Lots of scope of song and dance routine. Vidya balan or Sonakshi as Mini, Abhay Deol as Rustom.
A very brilliant effort for debut novel. Full marks. Way to go Shubha.
June 27, 2015
Naughty, Quirky and Light
A huge thanks to the author for sending me a copy of the book and that too in such an amazing speed. i remember sending a mail saying how i would love to read her book and next thing i know i had the copy in my hand...and that by Indian standards in nothing less of a divine intervention..
The second coming is a true blood " Mills & Boons" romance but with a quirky treatment. Fans of M&B will find this one absolutely scrumptious.
The book was funny, light and naughty. Many will be widening their eyes and mouth over the theme of the book which basically tells the tale of a married woman looking for an extra marital romance in her life. Yes the theme itself can irk many but to be frank, i found it funny and stress relieving and could not be bothered with the moral aspects of the story plot. Its fiction and i would take it as one only.
This is kitty club stuff... ;)
The language apart from using "Hinglish" here and there (which is one major aspect i hate in indian fictions) and maybe couple of hindi/punjabi dialogues, was fairly good and supportive to the story. Narration is what scores in the book. The author uses light rendition for her narration which means there is nothing that requires you to go brain shopping or indulge in heavy thinking. The kind of story telling used in the book helps you sit back and relax and enjoy a pure chick-lit in all its glamour and spiciness and hotness of romance.
i have never much liked M&B books but somehow this book gave me a very quirky read and that too at a great time as i have been really piling on books that catered to some heavy topics and then this book comes along as a breath of fresh air.
Let me warn you that The Second Coming is a pure chick lit. In fact more on the lines of Mills & Boons so if you are not a big fan of this genre then step away rather than picking it up and then cribbing later. For ladies out there, hop on, be a little naughty with the author and the characters of the book. The book is sweet, naughty, quirky and absolutely light and easy read.(i am seriously over abusing these words but honestly there is no other words that can describe this book). The narration technique makes it fun and language is good too and basic plot .... that i am leaving for individual perception
A huge thanks to the author for sending me a copy of the book and that too in such an amazing speed. i remember sending a mail saying how i would love to read her book and next thing i know i had the copy in my hand...and that by Indian standards in nothing less of a divine intervention..
The second coming is a true blood " Mills & Boons" romance but with a quirky treatment. Fans of M&B will find this one absolutely scrumptious.
The book was funny, light and naughty. Many will be widening their eyes and mouth over the theme of the book which basically tells the tale of a married woman looking for an extra marital romance in her life. Yes the theme itself can irk many but to be frank, i found it funny and stress relieving and could not be bothered with the moral aspects of the story plot. Its fiction and i would take it as one only.
This is kitty club stuff... ;)
The language apart from using "Hinglish" here and there (which is one major aspect i hate in indian fictions) and maybe couple of hindi/punjabi dialogues, was fairly good and supportive to the story. Narration is what scores in the book. The author uses light rendition for her narration which means there is nothing that requires you to go brain shopping or indulge in heavy thinking. The kind of story telling used in the book helps you sit back and relax and enjoy a pure chick-lit in all its glamour and spiciness and hotness of romance.
i have never much liked M&B books but somehow this book gave me a very quirky read and that too at a great time as i have been really piling on books that catered to some heavy topics and then this book comes along as a breath of fresh air.
Let me warn you that The Second Coming is a pure chick lit. In fact more on the lines of Mills & Boons so if you are not a big fan of this genre then step away rather than picking it up and then cribbing later. For ladies out there, hop on, be a little naughty with the author and the characters of the book. The book is sweet, naughty, quirky and absolutely light and easy read.(i am seriously over abusing these words but honestly there is no other words that can describe this book). The narration technique makes it fun and language is good too and basic plot .... that i am leaving for individual perception
September 21, 2016
A romance with a twist. That's what Shubha Menon's debut "The Second Coming" is all about. Mini is a fortyish wedding planner who dreams up fantastic marriages for her clients even while she yearns for a Dream Lover who will sweep her off her feet and give her a last chance at romance. The breathtaking, heart-thumping, Mills & Boon kind. The zing has gone out of her marriage long ago and her reliable but paunchy life partner, Shyam, can never measure up to her fantasies. Besides, with menopause round the corner she prays for a chance at one 'last hurrah'. And her prayer is answered when she is sent off to Mumbai to plan a royal, 'no budget' prince's nuptials. And lo and behold, the dream job also comes packaged with the hot and handsome Parsi manager of the Mumbai office, Rustom. Who promises to be every bit the DL of her fantasies.
The author spins an engaging coming of age story of a romance-starved middle aged woman with commendable comic flair. Some of the scenes - particularly the ones where Mini and her school mates meet up for a booze-drenched reunion to discuss matters of the heart and the state of their pathetic marital lives - are hilarious. As are the office shenanigans. The only fumble is the too-easily-resolved crisis in Mini's life when she has to choose between Hot and Hunky DL and her Trusty Husband.
Overall, though, Shubha tells a fun story in a charmingly funny way. Looking forward to reading more from this talented author.
The author spins an engaging coming of age story of a romance-starved middle aged woman with commendable comic flair. Some of the scenes - particularly the ones where Mini and her school mates meet up for a booze-drenched reunion to discuss matters of the heart and the state of their pathetic marital lives - are hilarious. As are the office shenanigans. The only fumble is the too-easily-resolved crisis in Mini's life when she has to choose between Hot and Hunky DL and her Trusty Husband.
Overall, though, Shubha tells a fun story in a charmingly funny way. Looking forward to reading more from this talented author.
December 29, 2015
If there is one word to describe the book, it is HILARIOUS.
The book has been written from Mini’s perspective and is funny from the word go. The language is simple and the scenes have been described in such a way that visualizing them is so easy and once they came in front of my eyes, I could not help laughing, irrespective of where I was sitting.
For a debut, it is an excellent book.
More on https://metroreader.wordpress.com/201...
The book has been written from Mini’s perspective and is funny from the word go. The language is simple and the scenes have been described in such a way that visualizing them is so easy and once they came in front of my eyes, I could not help laughing, irrespective of where I was sitting.
For a debut, it is an excellent book.
More on https://metroreader.wordpress.com/201...
November 14, 2015
The story...
“He was astride a black motorbike, his face hidden by a jet-black helmet. Behind him, his satin cloak billowed like a sail.”
What a story! The character of Mini can be of any Indian woman who though not going through a midlife crisis but wandering how did she reach at this point of her life. When they have everything, yet there is no satisfaction. Maybe because the first bloom of love is over, the flush of youth has died down and most of all idealism has been replaced by reality. This is the point where the story of Mini starts.
Mini nodded wisely, “Experience has taught me that marriage is a huge con, an illusion, my dear and once the romance wears off, give me …. Another romance!” she declared.
Mini is married to Shyam and at this point of time, her mind is only highlighting the negative points of a husband.
His snoring habits, his eating habits and even his dressing habits – nothing seems to quicken her heartbeat any more. Her husband has grown up and so has she, but her heart? Her heart is still searching for the Mills and Boon quality of love. Where she is the damsel in distress and a knight in shining armor would make an entrance, any moment, to rescue her from her dreary existence.
“Shyam sat there like a statue, staring at the steaming gravy. Mini got up, went to his side of the table and lovingly lifted a spoonful to his mouth.
He came down to her like a ton of bricks…”
Personally I would have thrown a ton of bricks on his head ...
When she gets an assignment in Mumbai, she is the first one to pack her bags and happily embark on a journey of adventure. It is at this point of time that she meets Rustom. She likes him a lot but like her, he too is married. From the beginning, she goes after him, wanting to have an affair with him.
Her greatest drawback, according to her of course, is her figure. Thanks to the amount of food and chocolate, she dumps inside her body she now must face the consequence that no man would look at her twice because she is no more the owner of the perfect hourglass figure that men generally go after. So does she give up?
Of course not.
“Well, this time she had strong incentive. …..A last, hurrah, a true blue hot-blooded romance before menopause!”
Mini, being Mini, goes out of her way to gain back her figure, have a complete makeover and gain back a part of her youth that she has lost.
The problem starts when her husband hires as a detective to find the underlying cause of Mini’s strange behavior.
The humorous punch lines...
The first thing that attracted me to Shubha Menon's The Second Coming was the punchlines used. Especially with Mini’s character. Out of the blue, her way of thinking will bring on a smile. Though many of the readers might feel that the thought process of this story is ‘wrong’. For some she might even be the antagonist of her own story. But she is a complete modern woman who knows that she wants more than what life was offering her. She certainly was a woman on a hunting mission. :P
Morality..
As a reviewer it is not my right to judge the morality in this story. An author’s penning is the mirror of our society. We cannot judge good or bad - that is totally against the freedom of creativity. Does extra-marital affair not happen in our society? Does not men stray out every day and women wait for her man to come back to his senses. Why cannot the same approach be taken for a woman?
The growing up of Mini....
I like the way Mini grows from a woman who is out to get what life has to offer to an understanding human being as self-realization dawns upon her. The funny part was the way Mini preps herself to have an extra marital affair. The clothes she buys to booking the hotel has created a very humorous ambiance. The author does not apologize, even once, for Mini's so-called indiscretion. In fact, the extramarital affair carried on with an élan. The teasing from friends, the preparations and all those girly giggling parts that we expect a woman in her 20s to do is carried on by Mini and her friends like women looking out for a second lease in life. Not once, it enters her head how her husband would react yet when the moment came when she suspects her husband might be having an affair – her reaction is hilarious.
What was the thought processes?
This book made me think. I am a married woman but am I a happily married woman? Husbands have their own unique faults and endearing nature. Mine has too but if opportunity knocks at my door ever as it did for Mini, will I have the guts to do what she did? Will I even want to? I honestly don't know the answer to that but one thing I can definitely tell you – I am going to carry a big ball of nara (that is used to hold the pants in salwar kameez) in my purse.
Check out the Reasoning for the Star Rating @
http://www.tbcblogtours.com/tbc-blog/...
“He was astride a black motorbike, his face hidden by a jet-black helmet. Behind him, his satin cloak billowed like a sail.”
What a story! The character of Mini can be of any Indian woman who though not going through a midlife crisis but wandering how did she reach at this point of her life. When they have everything, yet there is no satisfaction. Maybe because the first bloom of love is over, the flush of youth has died down and most of all idealism has been replaced by reality. This is the point where the story of Mini starts.
Mini nodded wisely, “Experience has taught me that marriage is a huge con, an illusion, my dear and once the romance wears off, give me …. Another romance!” she declared.
Mini is married to Shyam and at this point of time, her mind is only highlighting the negative points of a husband.
His snoring habits, his eating habits and even his dressing habits – nothing seems to quicken her heartbeat any more. Her husband has grown up and so has she, but her heart? Her heart is still searching for the Mills and Boon quality of love. Where she is the damsel in distress and a knight in shining armor would make an entrance, any moment, to rescue her from her dreary existence.
“Shyam sat there like a statue, staring at the steaming gravy. Mini got up, went to his side of the table and lovingly lifted a spoonful to his mouth.
He came down to her like a ton of bricks…”
Personally I would have thrown a ton of bricks on his head ...
When she gets an assignment in Mumbai, she is the first one to pack her bags and happily embark on a journey of adventure. It is at this point of time that she meets Rustom. She likes him a lot but like her, he too is married. From the beginning, she goes after him, wanting to have an affair with him.
Her greatest drawback, according to her of course, is her figure. Thanks to the amount of food and chocolate, she dumps inside her body she now must face the consequence that no man would look at her twice because she is no more the owner of the perfect hourglass figure that men generally go after. So does she give up?
Of course not.
“Well, this time she had strong incentive. …..A last, hurrah, a true blue hot-blooded romance before menopause!”
Mini, being Mini, goes out of her way to gain back her figure, have a complete makeover and gain back a part of her youth that she has lost.
The problem starts when her husband hires as a detective to find the underlying cause of Mini’s strange behavior.
The humorous punch lines...
The first thing that attracted me to Shubha Menon's The Second Coming was the punchlines used. Especially with Mini’s character. Out of the blue, her way of thinking will bring on a smile. Though many of the readers might feel that the thought process of this story is ‘wrong’. For some she might even be the antagonist of her own story. But she is a complete modern woman who knows that she wants more than what life was offering her. She certainly was a woman on a hunting mission. :P
Morality..
As a reviewer it is not my right to judge the morality in this story. An author’s penning is the mirror of our society. We cannot judge good or bad - that is totally against the freedom of creativity. Does extra-marital affair not happen in our society? Does not men stray out every day and women wait for her man to come back to his senses. Why cannot the same approach be taken for a woman?
The growing up of Mini....
I like the way Mini grows from a woman who is out to get what life has to offer to an understanding human being as self-realization dawns upon her. The funny part was the way Mini preps herself to have an extra marital affair. The clothes she buys to booking the hotel has created a very humorous ambiance. The author does not apologize, even once, for Mini's so-called indiscretion. In fact, the extramarital affair carried on with an élan. The teasing from friends, the preparations and all those girly giggling parts that we expect a woman in her 20s to do is carried on by Mini and her friends like women looking out for a second lease in life. Not once, it enters her head how her husband would react yet when the moment came when she suspects her husband might be having an affair – her reaction is hilarious.
What was the thought processes?
This book made me think. I am a married woman but am I a happily married woman? Husbands have their own unique faults and endearing nature. Mine has too but if opportunity knocks at my door ever as it did for Mini, will I have the guts to do what she did? Will I even want to? I honestly don't know the answer to that but one thing I can definitely tell you – I am going to carry a big ball of nara (that is used to hold the pants in salwar kameez) in my purse.
Check out the Reasoning for the Star Rating @
http://www.tbcblogtours.com/tbc-blog/...
September 26, 2018
Just a typical Indian oriented story where people cheat on their spouses and don't feel a thing and how it refreshes their minds.
I personally think that this was just an average read when you have nothing else to read. Also, I wouldn't recommend to buy a copy of it, if you want to read maybe just borrow from somewhere or someone.
I personally think that this was just an average read when you have nothing else to read. Also, I wouldn't recommend to buy a copy of it, if you want to read maybe just borrow from somewhere or someone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2015
Mini aka Mrinalini is creative, forty something career woman who plans fairy-tale marriages at Soul Mates, a wedding planning agency. While she planned dreamy, romantic weddings for the clients, she knew that romance in a marriage is an oxymoron. And that’s proven by her marriage to fat slob ‘Sicko’ Shyam. She longs for a touch of romance in her life and hopes that one day her knight in shining armour, her Dream Lover – DL, would arrive and sweep her off her feat and make passionate, romantic, fervent love to her.
As she is caught in her daily romance-less, mundane life, she gets an opportunity to plan a ‘no-budget’ royal wedding of a prince and a starlet at Mumbai. Here, she meets Rustom, the handsome, sophisticated Greek God. With a diet plan in place along with gym, new haircut and a makeover, Mini makes plans to seduce him. Rustom responds and her dream comes true. But do they live happily ever after?
The Second Coming is chick lit with a large dose of humour and wit. It is a realistic take on the lives of working couples who after few years of marriage drift into a predictable monotonous routine. It talks about how beautiful romances are transmuted into dull marriages with relationships that are constricting and corrosive. Mini and Shyam’s situation is not bad enough for them to want out, but is not good enough to bring any real joy. The book deals with adultery but also conveys the importance and need of this institution called marriage.
The characters are relatable and true to life. Mini is adorable and sweet. Her frequent dieting plans ending with Diet Swiss Ultra Creamy Delight chocolate or parantha or a cake is something that most of us can identify with. ‘Sicko’ Shyam though does not have an iota of romance in his over-sized body and snores too but is dependable and loving in his own way. Rustom, though is a suave, charming and sophisticated dream lover but is not perfect and has his failings. The story at times, rather a few instances were over the top and a bit clichéd, but that does not stop you from turning the pages one after the other with deep interest and attention.
The Second Coming is fun, breezy, quirky read which will make you laugh and smile as you keep turning the pages of the book. Go for it!
http://shilpaagarg.com/2015/10/the-se...
As she is caught in her daily romance-less, mundane life, she gets an opportunity to plan a ‘no-budget’ royal wedding of a prince and a starlet at Mumbai. Here, she meets Rustom, the handsome, sophisticated Greek God. With a diet plan in place along with gym, new haircut and a makeover, Mini makes plans to seduce him. Rustom responds and her dream comes true. But do they live happily ever after?
The Second Coming is chick lit with a large dose of humour and wit. It is a realistic take on the lives of working couples who after few years of marriage drift into a predictable monotonous routine. It talks about how beautiful romances are transmuted into dull marriages with relationships that are constricting and corrosive. Mini and Shyam’s situation is not bad enough for them to want out, but is not good enough to bring any real joy. The book deals with adultery but also conveys the importance and need of this institution called marriage.
The characters are relatable and true to life. Mini is adorable and sweet. Her frequent dieting plans ending with Diet Swiss Ultra Creamy Delight chocolate or parantha or a cake is something that most of us can identify with. ‘Sicko’ Shyam though does not have an iota of romance in his over-sized body and snores too but is dependable and loving in his own way. Rustom, though is a suave, charming and sophisticated dream lover but is not perfect and has his failings. The story at times, rather a few instances were over the top and a bit clichéd, but that does not stop you from turning the pages one after the other with deep interest and attention.
The Second Coming is fun, breezy, quirky read which will make you laugh and smile as you keep turning the pages of the book. Go for it!
http://shilpaagarg.com/2015/10/the-se...
March 6, 2015
It’s the story of India coming of age.
That’s the story of a mind swinging like a pendulum between hope and despair-hope of a new lease of life and despair after finding out that life!
The story of deep realization in life has been served in the coating of humour.
That’s the story of Mini-the twenty-first century Indian urban woman- told fascinatingly by Shubha Menon in her hilarious romantic comedy –“The second coming.”
Our protagonist- Mini –is a little overweight and still dreams of making it again to her good old days-when she was in size zero (probably). She likes to live on a scanty food-but the world around you is so treacherous. Instead of feeding a starving skeleton like child- everybody is conspiring in feeding that oversized mumbo- jumbo! And she is getting forty plus-winter is daring to come in her life-and menopause is knocking at her door. the lady needs a romance- a last minute heart warming affair that has been abstained in her life for decades-or if her mental state is taken into account( where time is very fast-it is all play of relativity) for centuries.
in this backdrop starts the story of this childless couple –where he is obsessed with cricket and dogs and she is passionate about food and getting back to size zero( what a colourful life)!
And to her awe, the physician consoled her
“It can be wonderful, I can tell you. It’s just another phase of life. a lot of woman welcomes it! This is simply nature’s way of preparing you for grandchildren. And imagine never having to worry about staining your Kanjeevaram silk! I’ve been through it and I vouch for it. Nothing like the freedom menopause gives you.”
Heaven’s sake-she was adding salt to the injury-‘preparing for grandchildren’-what a thought!
And so absorbed was she in her thought-that while driving her car –she forgot to notice some obvious things-except one fanatic running behind her car. Delhi is full of rapists-she thought and reached her house where as usual her hubby was watching the cricket match-
Read the complete review at
https://jayasreesown.wordpress.com/20...
That’s the story of a mind swinging like a pendulum between hope and despair-hope of a new lease of life and despair after finding out that life!
The story of deep realization in life has been served in the coating of humour.
That’s the story of Mini-the twenty-first century Indian urban woman- told fascinatingly by Shubha Menon in her hilarious romantic comedy –“The second coming.”
Our protagonist- Mini –is a little overweight and still dreams of making it again to her good old days-when she was in size zero (probably). She likes to live on a scanty food-but the world around you is so treacherous. Instead of feeding a starving skeleton like child- everybody is conspiring in feeding that oversized mumbo- jumbo! And she is getting forty plus-winter is daring to come in her life-and menopause is knocking at her door. the lady needs a romance- a last minute heart warming affair that has been abstained in her life for decades-or if her mental state is taken into account( where time is very fast-it is all play of relativity) for centuries.
in this backdrop starts the story of this childless couple –where he is obsessed with cricket and dogs and she is passionate about food and getting back to size zero( what a colourful life)!
And to her awe, the physician consoled her
“It can be wonderful, I can tell you. It’s just another phase of life. a lot of woman welcomes it! This is simply nature’s way of preparing you for grandchildren. And imagine never having to worry about staining your Kanjeevaram silk! I’ve been through it and I vouch for it. Nothing like the freedom menopause gives you.”
Heaven’s sake-she was adding salt to the injury-‘preparing for grandchildren’-what a thought!
And so absorbed was she in her thought-that while driving her car –she forgot to notice some obvious things-except one fanatic running behind her car. Delhi is full of rapists-she thought and reached her house where as usual her hubby was watching the cricket match-
Read the complete review at
https://jayasreesown.wordpress.com/20...
January 4, 2016
Note : A review of this book has been posted in my Blog - Book and Ink as a part of TBC book tours!
The primary characters of romance book these days are 20 something who crave attention (to be read as love!). What after they get married and turn 40? Does that sizzling romance still stay? Of course not! Even fiction writers don’t attempt to talk about romance and 40 year old women. It’s totally high time that subject is broached in our books! Shuba, the writer of this book seemed to be one among the early birds to write on this subject.
Our protagonist, Mini (aka Mrinalini) is a wedding planner who organizes dream wedding for high profile people. She feels this mighty need to experience a heady romance with a good looking guy (er…better looking than her husband!). She is deputed to Mumbai to organize a no budget wedding of a prince. When she lands in Mumbai she meets the dashing and suave Rustom who happens to head the Mumbai branch of her company. Things quickly escalate between them and mini ends up experiencing that oomph moment that she longed for! But does that satisfy her? Does she experience what she bargained for?
The cover looks quirky and on paper it looks super cool! The title of course is totally justified by the coming of age (coming of....er....middle age may be?!) story!
With humor injected in all the right places, the book was absolute fun to read. Being a twenty something the story had me gaping and wondering if this is how my life would be 20 years down the line. Thankfully the writer choose to have a positive ending thereby giving me a solution for all my worries! All characters where perfect except for Mini’s husband Shyam. I felt he could have actually done more to attract Mini again when he had the chance. Or may be it’s just men! The writing was flawless and the characters emoted to dot.
MY SAY: One fun book to read!
RATING:
PLOT: 8/10
CHARACTERISATION: 8/10
NARRATION: 8/10
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 1/10 (lower the better)
OVERALL RATING: 8/10
The primary characters of romance book these days are 20 something who crave attention (to be read as love!). What after they get married and turn 40? Does that sizzling romance still stay? Of course not! Even fiction writers don’t attempt to talk about romance and 40 year old women. It’s totally high time that subject is broached in our books! Shuba, the writer of this book seemed to be one among the early birds to write on this subject.
Our protagonist, Mini (aka Mrinalini) is a wedding planner who organizes dream wedding for high profile people. She feels this mighty need to experience a heady romance with a good looking guy (er…better looking than her husband!). She is deputed to Mumbai to organize a no budget wedding of a prince. When she lands in Mumbai she meets the dashing and suave Rustom who happens to head the Mumbai branch of her company. Things quickly escalate between them and mini ends up experiencing that oomph moment that she longed for! But does that satisfy her? Does she experience what she bargained for?
The cover looks quirky and on paper it looks super cool! The title of course is totally justified by the coming of age (coming of....er....middle age may be?!) story!
With humor injected in all the right places, the book was absolute fun to read. Being a twenty something the story had me gaping and wondering if this is how my life would be 20 years down the line. Thankfully the writer choose to have a positive ending thereby giving me a solution for all my worries! All characters where perfect except for Mini’s husband Shyam. I felt he could have actually done more to attract Mini again when he had the chance. Or may be it’s just men! The writing was flawless and the characters emoted to dot.
MY SAY: One fun book to read!
RATING:
PLOT: 8/10
CHARACTERISATION: 8/10
NARRATION: 8/10
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 1/10 (lower the better)
OVERALL RATING: 8/10
October 12, 2015
Characters:
Meet Mrinalini aka Mini, who is in her early forties. A wedding planner with exceptional ideas, M&B romance novel lover, chocolate addict, avid dreamer waiting for Dream Lover (DL) and a plump and unhappy wife - that is Mini Mathur for you.
Meet Rustom, the person with looks of a Greek God. Soulmates' Mumbai branch head, this Parsi has no lack of girls who drool over him. Skirt chaser, women's man, smooth talker and flirt are the kind of the word that can be associated with Rustom.
Plot:
Mini Mathur who is a star employee of 'Soulmates' who plan dream weddings is definitely not happy with her personal life. Forty something, she is on the verge of early menopause and there is still that dream of meeting her 'Dream Lover' that remains unfulfilled. An unattentive husband is definitely an added minus. It is during this time that she gets an offer to fly to Mumbai to plan a 'no-budget' wedding. Determined to have fun before menopause kicks in, Mini lands up in Mumbai, anticipating some excitement. And she is more than successful in finding it. What happens next is a totally hilarious read.
Things I Liked:
Read the full review here - Escape Reality - Book Reviews
Meet Mrinalini aka Mini, who is in her early forties. A wedding planner with exceptional ideas, M&B romance novel lover, chocolate addict, avid dreamer waiting for Dream Lover (DL) and a plump and unhappy wife - that is Mini Mathur for you.
Meet Rustom, the person with looks of a Greek God. Soulmates' Mumbai branch head, this Parsi has no lack of girls who drool over him. Skirt chaser, women's man, smooth talker and flirt are the kind of the word that can be associated with Rustom.
Plot:
Mini Mathur who is a star employee of 'Soulmates' who plan dream weddings is definitely not happy with her personal life. Forty something, she is on the verge of early menopause and there is still that dream of meeting her 'Dream Lover' that remains unfulfilled. An unattentive husband is definitely an added minus. It is during this time that she gets an offer to fly to Mumbai to plan a 'no-budget' wedding. Determined to have fun before menopause kicks in, Mini lands up in Mumbai, anticipating some excitement. And she is more than successful in finding it. What happens next is a totally hilarious read.
Things I Liked:
Read the full review here - Escape Reality - Book Reviews
October 10, 2015
Disclaimer: I received an author-signed paperback of this book via The Book Club in return for my honest review. I have NOT received any monetary compensation for the same.
Mini has been married to Shyam for eighteen years and they have become habits to each other. They live in Delhi. Working for a wedding planner as the creative head, Mini has still not given up on her aspirations for finding her Dream Lover or DL as she prefers to call him. Being overweight, her main focus in life is to lose weight and have a hot, red-blooded TDH falling in love with her. Sizzling sex would be a definite bonus.
Highly dependent on her husband for many things, Mini is still determined to become self-sufficient when she gets a chance to go on an assignment to Mumbai. Despite her husband’s protests, she goes to stay with her school friend Aditi, while working on a big fat royal wedding to be held in Mumbai. The head of production in the city, Rustom, seems the answer to her prayers. Is he what she believes he is? Is it worth risking her marriage? Caution thrown to the winds, Mini explores new territory.
Read the full review here: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in...
Mini has been married to Shyam for eighteen years and they have become habits to each other. They live in Delhi. Working for a wedding planner as the creative head, Mini has still not given up on her aspirations for finding her Dream Lover or DL as she prefers to call him. Being overweight, her main focus in life is to lose weight and have a hot, red-blooded TDH falling in love with her. Sizzling sex would be a definite bonus.
Highly dependent on her husband for many things, Mini is still determined to become self-sufficient when she gets a chance to go on an assignment to Mumbai. Despite her husband’s protests, she goes to stay with her school friend Aditi, while working on a big fat royal wedding to be held in Mumbai. The head of production in the city, Rustom, seems the answer to her prayers. Is he what she believes he is? Is it worth risking her marriage? Caution thrown to the winds, Mini explores new territory.
Read the full review here: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in...
May 16, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Honestly, this book was pretty funny. The problems and dilemmas the protagonist faces are so common and the way she deals with them won't really make you laugh out loud but make you smile and sympathize atleast. The storyline is original and makes for fun and light reading. The characters are strong and easy to relate to. The author has a way of showing situations from every angle so you understand what is going through the minds of the characters. But overall, although this book makes for nice reading, it really isn't something that you'd like to read more than once.
Honestly, this book was pretty funny. The problems and dilemmas the protagonist faces are so common and the way she deals with them won't really make you laugh out loud but make you smile and sympathize atleast. The storyline is original and makes for fun and light reading. The characters are strong and easy to relate to. The author has a way of showing situations from every angle so you understand what is going through the minds of the characters. But overall, although this book makes for nice reading, it really isn't something that you'd like to read more than once.
October 6, 2015
My review here
I was giggling or grinning most of the time when reading the book. Mini, you are adorable!
To the traditional Indian mind, it can cause trauma but I am glad it didnt portray a morale-principle abiding tale.
See the narration is so natural, I am describing Mini as if she is real-life. The comical scenes are hilarious.
Shubha, you can also become a good food writer. Just a tip ;)
October 24, 2015
It was enjoyable to read about how Mini always lands into some funny situation, especially the scene at the pub when she first arrives in Mumbai and accidentally meets Pritam Pal Singh, her neighbour from Delhi . There were many such funny incidents.
Every woman's story which every woman should read. Read complete review here
https://icecandy16blog.wordpress.com/...
Every woman's story which every woman should read. Read complete review here
https://icecandy16blog.wordpress.com/...
September 20, 2015
More like an Indian version of Paulo Coelho's Adultery. If you're in a mood to read something light and humorous then this is a perfect read for you. Brownie points for the witty style of writing. Considering the fact that it's her first book, it's pretty impressive. Highly recommended for married women and men.
February 26, 2017
A really fun book to read. Shubha Menon's writing style, picking up witty phrases from daily speak and some of the quite-unabashed visions of fantasy make for this to be a very entertaining experience. This should just directly be made into a movie. Will be a hit!
December 13, 2014
neat debut novel. quick, well edited, snazzy and light read. the quirky characters/ plot are well done!
November 28, 2015
The Second Coming is a fast, funny and well written book. It talks about the needs and dreams of a woman on the verge of being past 40 and almost obese Mini and her dream lover. The book opens with Mini dreaming of a happily ever after with her handsome knight in shining armor who sweeps her away. Yet soon we know these are all dreams and ideas are going to get her into a lot of trouble or not?
As the author points out, Mini’s thoughts…… “what kind of meaningless farce has their relationship become, where they could no longer have an intimate conversation, leave alone intimacy in bed?”
The story is a straight forward one about a woman with a midlife crisis looking for that one last fling, but it has a lot of masala to keep it interesting and light. The drama’s and strange requests from all the parties of the ‘no budget’ wedding kept me in splits. Add to that the references to food and I think I gained a few pounds just reading about all the food mentioned. The book is a perfect example of the quote, ““What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” And the Shubha explores this beautifully in the book.
The one thing that put me off was the reference to food everywhere, I get it that Mini is a total foodie but even when drooling over her dream man, food should be the last thing on her mind? NO??
The book is a fun read, perfect for those long commuted or lazy weekends when we need something light and frothy to fill the hours. The book tackles a strong subject of Infidelity and yet stays true to its core of good, wholesome humor. The reader gets involved in Mini’s life from the first chapter and celebrates each success and failure, each gain and loss with her. At times rooting for her and sometimes wondering what are Shyam and Rustom up to? Who will manage to have Mini all for himself?
Sicko Shayam or Romeo/ Raunchy Rustom both have been well penned by Shubha. She has managed to bring out the best in all the characters and at the same time build the story towards its right end. The cat and mouse game of wait and watch; finally getting an insight into Rustom’s mind made the story more believable for me even though he was quite predictable and pretty much what I had expected. Shyam on the other hand out did himself, right from fighting for his girl to keeping her; he managed to the ‘just right’ things even though he started out kinda like a loser. I enjoyed reading about him the most.
No crass expressions, no demeaning or cheap shots either at the lady or the guy. The book depicts what our society is experiencing today and I have seen this among many acquaintances and no, I am not giving out any names!! She has handled this mid life crisis with élan and spunk. Kudos to her for choosing a controversial and hot topic while doing justice to it. I particularly liked the way the book ended though a partnership with Soul Mates could have been really cool for Mini.
(© I received a copy of the book from the author, the review is my own.)
As the author points out, Mini’s thoughts…… “what kind of meaningless farce has their relationship become, where they could no longer have an intimate conversation, leave alone intimacy in bed?”
The story is a straight forward one about a woman with a midlife crisis looking for that one last fling, but it has a lot of masala to keep it interesting and light. The drama’s and strange requests from all the parties of the ‘no budget’ wedding kept me in splits. Add to that the references to food and I think I gained a few pounds just reading about all the food mentioned. The book is a perfect example of the quote, ““What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” And the Shubha explores this beautifully in the book.
The one thing that put me off was the reference to food everywhere, I get it that Mini is a total foodie but even when drooling over her dream man, food should be the last thing on her mind? NO??
The book is a fun read, perfect for those long commuted or lazy weekends when we need something light and frothy to fill the hours. The book tackles a strong subject of Infidelity and yet stays true to its core of good, wholesome humor. The reader gets involved in Mini’s life from the first chapter and celebrates each success and failure, each gain and loss with her. At times rooting for her and sometimes wondering what are Shyam and Rustom up to? Who will manage to have Mini all for himself?
Sicko Shayam or Romeo/ Raunchy Rustom both have been well penned by Shubha. She has managed to bring out the best in all the characters and at the same time build the story towards its right end. The cat and mouse game of wait and watch; finally getting an insight into Rustom’s mind made the story more believable for me even though he was quite predictable and pretty much what I had expected. Shyam on the other hand out did himself, right from fighting for his girl to keeping her; he managed to the ‘just right’ things even though he started out kinda like a loser. I enjoyed reading about him the most.
No crass expressions, no demeaning or cheap shots either at the lady or the guy. The book depicts what our society is experiencing today and I have seen this among many acquaintances and no, I am not giving out any names!! She has handled this mid life crisis with élan and spunk. Kudos to her for choosing a controversial and hot topic while doing justice to it. I particularly liked the way the book ended though a partnership with Soul Mates could have been really cool for Mini.
(© I received a copy of the book from the author, the review is my own.)
January 7, 2016
Plot:
Mini, a woman in her early forties is a wedding planner. She is successful in dreaming and making happen beautiful weddings. Be it in hot air balloons or a Swayamvar, ideas pop in crazy in her creative head. However, she suffers from a monotonous, dull marriage. And therefore she believes that weddings could be sublime and marriage, a mere joke! She believes in fairy-tale romances and when Rustom, the handsome Manager at the Mumbai office enters her life, she pictures him as her Knight in shining armor, ready to sweep her off her feet and take her away to a dreamland. She feels that he shares the same dreams and likes as hers, but in the end she approves of the regularity and ordinariness she shared with her husband Shyam. As her life seems betwixt and between, Rustom turns out as an “imperfect” man unlike the one in her dreams. So, what should she choose? A never failing husband and a solid marriage or a wild fantasy?
Whoa!
A light, breezy read, full of fun and humor right from the beginning- that’s how I can summarize the book. The characters are real. You can find them in the girl next door, your colleague or even in you. Just like any other woman, alarmed at the prospect of menopause as early as in her early forties and a monotonous predictable marriage, Mini decides to have a life that she always dreamt of. For a man who never cared two hoots, she decides to replace him with someone who cared.
I hated her husband Shyam when he addressed her as ‘a bag of cellulite‘. But then, his character is understandable.
While there was scope for a steamy, vulgar romance, the author had impeccably portrayed the lives of Mini, Rustom and Shyam with utmost decency and purity. Real life is like that, don’t you think? Not all Tom, Dick and Harry goes for an extra-marital affair.
Mini believes that chocolate can heal all the brutalities of the world. It made me smile when she thought, ‘It wasn’t sleep that was the balm for hurt minds; it was chocolate!’ And that’s exactly how I would think when I’m sad and hog on a complete bar.
Ouch!
My heart went for Shyam. May be a little more depth in his character?
Do I recommend?
Yes.
Rating:
4 on 5 for the impeccable, witty writing! I was grinning sheepishly irrespective of whether I was at work or in cab! :D
https://taleoftwotomatoes.wordpress.c...
Mini, a woman in her early forties is a wedding planner. She is successful in dreaming and making happen beautiful weddings. Be it in hot air balloons or a Swayamvar, ideas pop in crazy in her creative head. However, she suffers from a monotonous, dull marriage. And therefore she believes that weddings could be sublime and marriage, a mere joke! She believes in fairy-tale romances and when Rustom, the handsome Manager at the Mumbai office enters her life, she pictures him as her Knight in shining armor, ready to sweep her off her feet and take her away to a dreamland. She feels that he shares the same dreams and likes as hers, but in the end she approves of the regularity and ordinariness she shared with her husband Shyam. As her life seems betwixt and between, Rustom turns out as an “imperfect” man unlike the one in her dreams. So, what should she choose? A never failing husband and a solid marriage or a wild fantasy?
Whoa!
A light, breezy read, full of fun and humor right from the beginning- that’s how I can summarize the book. The characters are real. You can find them in the girl next door, your colleague or even in you. Just like any other woman, alarmed at the prospect of menopause as early as in her early forties and a monotonous predictable marriage, Mini decides to have a life that she always dreamt of. For a man who never cared two hoots, she decides to replace him with someone who cared.
I hated her husband Shyam when he addressed her as ‘a bag of cellulite‘. But then, his character is understandable.
While there was scope for a steamy, vulgar romance, the author had impeccably portrayed the lives of Mini, Rustom and Shyam with utmost decency and purity. Real life is like that, don’t you think? Not all Tom, Dick and Harry goes for an extra-marital affair.
Mini believes that chocolate can heal all the brutalities of the world. It made me smile when she thought, ‘It wasn’t sleep that was the balm for hurt minds; it was chocolate!’ And that’s exactly how I would think when I’m sad and hog on a complete bar.
Ouch!
My heart went for Shyam. May be a little more depth in his character?
Do I recommend?
Yes.
Rating:
4 on 5 for the impeccable, witty writing! I was grinning sheepishly irrespective of whether I was at work or in cab! :D
https://taleoftwotomatoes.wordpress.c...
October 3, 2015
4.5/5 stars
Story of an over-the-hill woman thinking of re-igniting romance, and add to it a dash of humor and you have the unique recipe for a mind-blowing tale. And it was high time someone tackled the romance missing in lives of married, urban woman who have lost that spark or zing required to make a relationship majestic. Shubha Menon has done a superb job with the subject and with her subtle wit and humor injected at the right moments in the novel.
Mrinaliniji aka, Mini is a wedding planner who realizes that she needs to experience that last episode of heady romance which she, has dreamt throughout her life, and plans for her clients as a wedding planner. In the process she meets Rustom and to an extent realizes her dream, but as the new relationship progresses she also appreciates the affection, memories, and commonalities she shares with her husband.
Shubha Menon takes us through a, sometime hilarious and sometimes poignant, roller-coaster life of a plump, fortish woman, who could be your next door neighbor or a good friend. At times it seems that life is passing by and one has not done what one has always longed for. Well, the subject is a little dicey and invokes a lot of moral questions, but the author has done a commendable job of handling the relationship without making it the least bit vulgar.
Characters are so relatable. Mini, even at that age, is fresh, adorable and innocent. At time she is unsure about what she wants, whether it is that one-time affair or real love. Rustom’s initially comes across as scheming Casanova, but he also shows some pardonable human failings and is believable. Shyam, of course, is the perfect husband for Mini, though at times I felt like bashing him up when he called her a ‘bag of cellulite’ and didn’t pursue her enough in Mumbai.
Apart from a couple of small oopsies in the beginning, which I know can be attributed to creative license, Shubha menon spins a naughty and quirky read, I highly recommend this book.
Story of an over-the-hill woman thinking of re-igniting romance, and add to it a dash of humor and you have the unique recipe for a mind-blowing tale. And it was high time someone tackled the romance missing in lives of married, urban woman who have lost that spark or zing required to make a relationship majestic. Shubha Menon has done a superb job with the subject and with her subtle wit and humor injected at the right moments in the novel.
Mrinaliniji aka, Mini is a wedding planner who realizes that she needs to experience that last episode of heady romance which she, has dreamt throughout her life, and plans for her clients as a wedding planner. In the process she meets Rustom and to an extent realizes her dream, but as the new relationship progresses she also appreciates the affection, memories, and commonalities she shares with her husband.
Shubha Menon takes us through a, sometime hilarious and sometimes poignant, roller-coaster life of a plump, fortish woman, who could be your next door neighbor or a good friend. At times it seems that life is passing by and one has not done what one has always longed for. Well, the subject is a little dicey and invokes a lot of moral questions, but the author has done a commendable job of handling the relationship without making it the least bit vulgar.
Characters are so relatable. Mini, even at that age, is fresh, adorable and innocent. At time she is unsure about what she wants, whether it is that one-time affair or real love. Rustom’s initially comes across as scheming Casanova, but he also shows some pardonable human failings and is believable. Shyam, of course, is the perfect husband for Mini, though at times I felt like bashing him up when he called her a ‘bag of cellulite’ and didn’t pursue her enough in Mumbai.
Apart from a couple of small oopsies in the beginning, which I know can be attributed to creative license, Shubha menon spins a naughty and quirky read, I highly recommend this book.
October 14, 2015
The Second Coming ' book .I received the paperback copy of this book as the ARC from the author Shubha Menon herself via TBC .Thank you Rubina Ramesh for the same.
The story : The Second Coming is a story of Mirnalini Mehta aka Mini a wedding planner who is dealing with mid- life crises where she thinks the romances in her martial life is fading away .So in order to make her husband 'Sicko' Shyam realize the need . She makes an escapes route to Mumbai where she meets the Parsi Guy and head of Soul -Mates Rustom who looked liked the romantic heros popping out from one of the books that which she had read during the loveless nights as she believes in fairy tale romances .So to woo Rustom she does all types of things and join a gym to look perfect in front of him .Rustom who is ladies man falls in love with Mini and proposes her too and eventually Mini falls in traps from which it is difficult for her to come out .
Will Mini be able to make a right choice ? Then check this book out .
My Views : Shubha Menon has written the book in an effective way by keeping the interest of readers in her mind .She has penned down every emotion of women a poignant way .Her desires of ' Love' and to be 'Loved' are quiet retaliate .
The Annoying Part : I disliked the part where Mini visits a gynac .I felt that part is out of the place .
Me Recommends : The Second Coming by Shubha Menon to all .
The story : The Second Coming is a story of Mirnalini Mehta aka Mini a wedding planner who is dealing with mid- life crises where she thinks the romances in her martial life is fading away .So in order to make her husband 'Sicko' Shyam realize the need . She makes an escapes route to Mumbai where she meets the Parsi Guy and head of Soul -Mates Rustom who looked liked the romantic heros popping out from one of the books that which she had read during the loveless nights as she believes in fairy tale romances .So to woo Rustom she does all types of things and join a gym to look perfect in front of him .Rustom who is ladies man falls in love with Mini and proposes her too and eventually Mini falls in traps from which it is difficult for her to come out .
Will Mini be able to make a right choice ? Then check this book out .
My Views : Shubha Menon has written the book in an effective way by keeping the interest of readers in her mind .She has penned down every emotion of women a poignant way .Her desires of ' Love' and to be 'Loved' are quiet retaliate .
The Annoying Part : I disliked the part where Mini visits a gynac .I felt that part is out of the place .
Me Recommends : The Second Coming by Shubha Menon to all .
October 5, 2015
Shubha Menon’s The Second Coming deals with second chances in a refreshingly different way. When I heard about the plot, I knew for certain that I had to read this book!!! And I am glad I did. It is funny, quirky, refreshing, and a quick read.
The Second Coming is a story laced with a little twist here and a slight turn there-another thing that I liked about it. The characters are beautiful and relatable. Out of the three characters, I liked Shubha’s potrayal of Shyam the best. A quick revelation of his flaws and an eventual revelation of his strengths work well in conveying that life doesn’t come with good things and bad things predefined. It is on us to do that.
Mini, of course, is the strength of the story, beautifully carrying the story on her quickly-reducing shoulders. I loved her!
Although the book is a quick read, the story isn’t jumpy or fast-paced. It doesn’t leave out what is necessary and leaves only as much is required to the readers’ imagination. Shubha’s use of the vocabulary is good; the book is well-written in terms of its language and grammar.
The Second Coming is a story laced with a little twist here and a slight turn there-another thing that I liked about it. The characters are beautiful and relatable. Out of the three characters, I liked Shubha’s potrayal of Shyam the best. A quick revelation of his flaws and an eventual revelation of his strengths work well in conveying that life doesn’t come with good things and bad things predefined. It is on us to do that.
Mini, of course, is the strength of the story, beautifully carrying the story on her quickly-reducing shoulders. I loved her!
Although the book is a quick read, the story isn’t jumpy or fast-paced. It doesn’t leave out what is necessary and leaves only as much is required to the readers’ imagination. Shubha’s use of the vocabulary is good; the book is well-written in terms of its language and grammar.
January 4, 2016
The Second Coming is an adventurous tale where a forty plus woman named Mini comes to peace with herself and her current situation. Thus, embracing, and treasuring what she has after she has seen, lived, experienced that grass is also not green on the other side of the fence that she had been fantasizing about.
This book had a jaunty way of describing the day to day life of Mini, who was actually going nuts in finding her dream lover who would make her heart tick at each of his moves. In spite of her pain in searching for one, I as a reader was chuckling at her thanks to the author's way of presentation. Mini as a character was woven as a happy go lucky girl who was working as a wedding planner but still would itch to travel alone or could not put her finances together. Thus, relying on her better half for the latter.
Read more at: http://abracabadra.blogspot.com/2015/...
This book had a jaunty way of describing the day to day life of Mini, who was actually going nuts in finding her dream lover who would make her heart tick at each of his moves. In spite of her pain in searching for one, I as a reader was chuckling at her thanks to the author's way of presentation. Mini as a character was woven as a happy go lucky girl who was working as a wedding planner but still would itch to travel alone or could not put her finances together. Thus, relying on her better half for the latter.
Read more at: http://abracabadra.blogspot.com/2015/...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2017
The title is apt: this book is also a Second Coming for the chick lit genre. After your twenty-somethings have been exhausted by stories of love, work and life, well, life still remains, and must be lived. Everything that lives on from teens and twentties fills this book: crushes on one's peers, conspiratorial friendships, the heaving ups and downs and big big surprises life throws at you from little corners you did not peek. Great book, and that too with a saucy accompaniment of Shubha's young and vibrant wit: check cover to imagine the sauce and sass of this indomitable lady!
An honest exploration of what could (a probably would) happen in a marriage where one partner needs to be wooed back in. Some parts return to romance and rosy-eyed glasses again.. but why not, it's chick-lit and everyone deserves a happy ending
An honest exploration of what could (a probably would) happen in a marriage where one partner needs to be wooed back in. Some parts return to romance and rosy-eyed glasses again.. but why not, it's chick-lit and everyone deserves a happy ending
June 5, 2015
A perfect recipe for romance, with the spice of an extra-marital affair (4.5/5)
Full review- http://wp.me/p2vbKI-5v
Full review- http://wp.me/p2vbKI-5v
August 19, 2015
A pathetic attempt to write a story. Two stars for making no gross mistakes in the language. And for writing a book that's not half as revolting as the junk that turn up as best sellers.
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