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Runaway Writers
"Dear Boss, I quit!" Amby resigns her cushy corporate job on a reckless whim- to be the ghost Tweet-Writer for the hot-looking superstar KayKay. Making him India's Wittiest Tweeter was a heady feeling, until... Amby is suddenly running away again-to Greece, to a Writers' Workshop. She meets Mini and Bobby, soul-sisters like her who have also come to follow a passion. But then something totally unexpected happens in Santorini! 'Runaway Writers' is a witty, wise, fast-paced novel with an inspiring message: stay restless, never settle, till you find the life you love. And the love of your life.
298 pages, Paperback
Published December 15, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 28, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up.
A lovely, refreshing and entertaining read.
Amby, a sensible, dutiful daughter to her parents a maths whizz-kid (plus a huge fan of Nora Ephron films) graduated with honours from an Ivy League University. She lands herself a perfectly respectable and safe job in Citibank, in Chennai (formerly Madras) just to quit it after a month. She ends up in PR as the shadow tweet-writer for Kollywood superstar, KayKay - to the wonder and envy of her friends and to the horror of her parents, who think this seriously mars her marriage prospects.
She enjoys the excitement and diversity this new job brings, not to mention the company of the supercool or superhot (have it your own way) Star, Kay to whom she grows very much attached. But then a pop-up advertisement about a beginner writers' course on the Island of Crete makes her think about past and future choices and her secret ambition to become a successful Hollywood screenwriter and she can't resist enrolling.
On Crete she meets fellow-aspirants from India. One of them is Minnie, a small woman in stature, but a big name in children's fiction, who wants to switch to a literary genre where size actually matters. The other is Bobbi, an award winning ad-writer, who craves escape from the world of famous one-liners to loquacious travelogues.
It is not only inspiration they find in Greece, but friendship, adventure, fun, romance and a deeper knowledge of themselves.
I liked all the girls and their stories. They are told with a lot of humour, feeling and sympathy. It is clear that the author is an insider in the world of PR, ads publishing. She writes about it all with ease and gentle (self-)mockery. There is romance in the making for all of them, but it is just one aspect of their story, not all-consuming and I was very happy to go along with that.
And what I appreciated even more are the glimpses I got of "everyday", urban India, where young people go to cafés, have parties, chat on FB and twitter, fall in love and are pestered by their parents to find the right job/husband/wife, etc. It was a place that is far away, but somehow familiar at the same time. Unfortunately my very limited knowledge of the culture/history could not make me really discern appreciate the cultural differences/references for a character from Tamil Nadu as opposed to one from Punjab (it made me do some small research, though), but it never gets in the way of enjoyment.
The only slight drawback was the way of switching between storylines - that was a bit bumpy, but nothing to diminish the fun.
I hope the author, Indu Balachandran, goes on writing stories like this. I'll sign up for them all.
Netgalley Arc received from the Publisher, Jacaranda Books, in exchange for an honest review.
A lovely, refreshing and entertaining read.
Amby, a sensible, dutiful daughter to her parents a maths whizz-kid (plus a huge fan of Nora Ephron films) graduated with honours from an Ivy League University. She lands herself a perfectly respectable and safe job in Citibank, in Chennai (formerly Madras) just to quit it after a month. She ends up in PR as the shadow tweet-writer for Kollywood superstar, KayKay - to the wonder and envy of her friends and to the horror of her parents, who think this seriously mars her marriage prospects.
She enjoys the excitement and diversity this new job brings, not to mention the company of the supercool or superhot (have it your own way) Star, Kay to whom she grows very much attached. But then a pop-up advertisement about a beginner writers' course on the Island of Crete makes her think about past and future choices and her secret ambition to become a successful Hollywood screenwriter and she can't resist enrolling.
On Crete she meets fellow-aspirants from India. One of them is Minnie, a small woman in stature, but a big name in children's fiction, who wants to switch to a literary genre where size actually matters. The other is Bobbi, an award winning ad-writer, who craves escape from the world of famous one-liners to loquacious travelogues.
It is not only inspiration they find in Greece, but friendship, adventure, fun, romance and a deeper knowledge of themselves.
I liked all the girls and their stories. They are told with a lot of humour, feeling and sympathy. It is clear that the author is an insider in the world of PR, ads publishing. She writes about it all with ease and gentle (self-)mockery. There is romance in the making for all of them, but it is just one aspect of their story, not all-consuming and I was very happy to go along with that.
And what I appreciated even more are the glimpses I got of "everyday", urban India, where young people go to cafés, have parties, chat on FB and twitter, fall in love and are pestered by their parents to find the right job/husband/wife, etc. It was a place that is far away, but somehow familiar at the same time. Unfortunately my very limited knowledge of the culture/history could not make me really discern appreciate the cultural differences/references for a character from Tamil Nadu as opposed to one from Punjab (it made me do some small research, though), but it never gets in the way of enjoyment.
The only slight drawback was the way of switching between storylines - that was a bit bumpy, but nothing to diminish the fun.
I hope the author, Indu Balachandran, goes on writing stories like this. I'll sign up for them all.
Netgalley Arc received from the Publisher, Jacaranda Books, in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2017
4☆ Entertaining, journey of discovery!
Amby quits her job just after a month working in a very respected bank. She's a Maths Whizz but the job just sucked the fun out of her Maths Love.
So on a drunken night out with her friends she decides that she needs a change... and that comes in the form of becoming a Shadow Tweet Writer for the Famous KayKay Kollywood Superstar.
As much as she loves her job writing for KayKay something just seems to be missing.
Her passion is creative writing and she has always wanted to write professionally.
So when she sees an Ad for a writers retreat in Greece she is instantly curious.
So she makes the big decision to sign up.
I mean what has she got to lose!
For me this is when the story gets going, as we follow Amby on her journey of discovery, the friendships she forms, the funny moments, the Romance.
Amby meets Mini, a children's book Author desperate to spice up her writing by exploring Erotic writing. A huge jump from her 'norm'.
She also meets Bobby, who is very established in the Advertising world, but longs to write about Travel
The three of them soon become really good friends and so begins their journey together.
I loved Amby and learning all about her life and family, she breaks away from what is expected of her by her family and throws herself into discovering her writing.
It was such a joy to see her grow.
The Writers Retreat is a warm, feel good Entertaining read. That has a self discovery feel. The characters are all so different yet their love for writing shines through.
With a humorous writing style and a sprinkle of Romance, this is the Perfect Summer read.
I received this book from the Publisher in which I voluntarily reviewed.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
Amby quits her job just after a month working in a very respected bank. She's a Maths Whizz but the job just sucked the fun out of her Maths Love.
So on a drunken night out with her friends she decides that she needs a change... and that comes in the form of becoming a Shadow Tweet Writer for the Famous KayKay Kollywood Superstar.
As much as she loves her job writing for KayKay something just seems to be missing.
Her passion is creative writing and she has always wanted to write professionally.
So when she sees an Ad for a writers retreat in Greece she is instantly curious.
So she makes the big decision to sign up.
I mean what has she got to lose!
For me this is when the story gets going, as we follow Amby on her journey of discovery, the friendships she forms, the funny moments, the Romance.
Amby meets Mini, a children's book Author desperate to spice up her writing by exploring Erotic writing. A huge jump from her 'norm'.
She also meets Bobby, who is very established in the Advertising world, but longs to write about Travel
The three of them soon become really good friends and so begins their journey together.
I loved Amby and learning all about her life and family, she breaks away from what is expected of her by her family and throws herself into discovering her writing.
It was such a joy to see her grow.
The Writers Retreat is a warm, feel good Entertaining read. That has a self discovery feel. The characters are all so different yet their love for writing shines through.
With a humorous writing style and a sprinkle of Romance, this is the Perfect Summer read.
I received this book from the Publisher in which I voluntarily reviewed.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
August 3, 2019
I admit that I went into this one thinking that it would be just an okay read. I was curious to see if this would be just another angsty 'what am I going to do with my life' story featuring some whiny privileged young people. The blurb for this one is very vague, and I was not sure what I was getting. But with it's unique setting and different cultural pressures than what many young people face in the West, the story had an interesting take on what defines success and happiness.
While Amby does seem to have what many people her age would covet, she wants to walk away from it because she isn't happy and fulfilled in her boring, yet coveted job. Even though Amby's job allows her to earn a living and she is lucky to have it, she doesn't completely come off as whiny and spoiled when she decides to leave it. Amby is definitely likable and I wanted her to find her joy. I was glad to see that Balachandran doesn't just focus on the fact that Amby is unhappy despite all of her good fortune, but approaches Amby's attempt at finding her place in the world with humor rather than angsty melodrama. The people Amby meets in Greece are interesting characters on their own and makes the story that much more interesting, given their different stages in life and their careers.
The Writer's Retreat is a unique twist on what happens after you come of age and are supposed to start fully living your life. It's a fast paced funny read. A great choice to pick up as a summer read.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @MonlatReader
Instagram: @readermonica
Facebook: Monica Reeds
Goodreads Group: The Black Bookcase
While Amby does seem to have what many people her age would covet, she wants to walk away from it because she isn't happy and fulfilled in her boring, yet coveted job. Even though Amby's job allows her to earn a living and she is lucky to have it, she doesn't completely come off as whiny and spoiled when she decides to leave it. Amby is definitely likable and I wanted her to find her joy. I was glad to see that Balachandran doesn't just focus on the fact that Amby is unhappy despite all of her good fortune, but approaches Amby's attempt at finding her place in the world with humor rather than angsty melodrama. The people Amby meets in Greece are interesting characters on their own and makes the story that much more interesting, given their different stages in life and their careers.
The Writer's Retreat is a unique twist on what happens after you come of age and are supposed to start fully living your life. It's a fast paced funny read. A great choice to pick up as a summer read.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @MonlatReader
Instagram: @readermonica
Facebook: Monica Reeds
Goodreads Group: The Black Bookcase
January 12, 2026
I could have done without the lowkey homophobia and fact that most major lines were movie references, but the plot and author’s writing style were just too tea so 4 stars! First book of the year yay
November 2, 2020
Okay, first of all - this book is a must read because there are so many take aways for an aspiring writer.
1. Prompts for jump-starting the much awaited novel that's only brewing in a writer's mind so far.
2. How might art help with writers block.
3. How writing workshops (international ones) might be a fun place to learn how to write and gain new experiences.
4. How you can't just be a writer in general without any specificity.
5. Drilling the environment in search of luck rather than waiting in one place and doing nothing to start writing.
I loved the writing style, a tad different from the usual Indian authors I have read. It was a fun, giggly and a racy read for sure.
1. Prompts for jump-starting the much awaited novel that's only brewing in a writer's mind so far.
2. How might art help with writers block.
3. How writing workshops (international ones) might be a fun place to learn how to write and gain new experiences.
4. How you can't just be a writer in general without any specificity.
5. Drilling the environment in search of luck rather than waiting in one place and doing nothing to start writing.
I loved the writing style, a tad different from the usual Indian authors I have read. It was a fun, giggly and a racy read for sure.
May 1, 2021
Okay, I am extremely lazy when it comes to updating reviews on my Goodreads page. Anyway, blabbering apart, this book was such a fun read. There were so many laugh-out-loud scenes that I kept chuckling while traveling in the Metro. Also, this book felt closer to home because of the protagonist, Ambujakshi Balan, being a Tamil Brahmin. What with all the Tamilian and Kollywood references, I thoroughly enjoyed reading her parts. Her monologues, quirky adjectives, hilarious word mashups, and reactions kept me in a mirthful mood throughout the book.
I also loved the characterizations of Bobby and Mini, though they were overshadowed by Amby. And then there was KayKay! The smashing male lead whose very presence in the book can turn the readers' knees wobbly. And, of course, Greece! My dear, dear Santorini! You could devour this entire book just for the Greekiness (lol, I made up that word, this book can do that to you) in it.
And, yes, the whole plot is based on three writers and their writing careers. So, it'd definitely be a treat for all aspiring and established writers (if you can forgive the extra exclamations and question marks at a few places). I am looking forward to reading more of Indu's books. She has the knack for writing humor and delivering it to the readers in an engaging manner.
There were flaws in the book like I have subtly mentioned in the previous paragraphs. But they can be brushed aside. The lovely narration will paste a constant smile on your face.
I also loved the characterizations of Bobby and Mini, though they were overshadowed by Amby. And then there was KayKay! The smashing male lead whose very presence in the book can turn the readers' knees wobbly. And, of course, Greece! My dear, dear Santorini! You could devour this entire book just for the Greekiness (lol, I made up that word, this book can do that to you) in it.
And, yes, the whole plot is based on three writers and their writing careers. So, it'd definitely be a treat for all aspiring and established writers (if you can forgive the extra exclamations and question marks at a few places). I am looking forward to reading more of Indu's books. She has the knack for writing humor and delivering it to the readers in an engaging manner.
There were flaws in the book like I have subtly mentioned in the previous paragraphs. But they can be brushed aside. The lovely narration will paste a constant smile on your face.
January 6, 2018
The writing is light-hearted and fun and it's an easy enough read so far, but the story is just feeling repetitive at this point, and I barely remember anything enough about the two minor heroines (Mini and Bobby) to care what happens to them. We just started the writer's retreat that was the focus of the book and so far, despite the gorgeous setting, nothing much is happening. The main focus appears to be the will they/won't they romance between Amby and her former boss, Kollywood superstar Kay Kay, but their chemistry falls flat for me.
This is usually the kind of book that I WOULD love, so being this bored with it is a disappointment.
DNF at page 166 of 287 on January 5, 2018.
This is usually the kind of book that I WOULD love, so being this bored with it is a disappointment.
DNF at page 166 of 287 on January 5, 2018.
June 18, 2017
The Writers’ Retreat is such a fun and entertaining book. I absolutely loved it. Great characters with even better dialogue. The focus of the book is Amby since she’s the narrator, but Bobby and Mini are just as much fun. The setting is wonderful, especially the part in Greece. It felt as if I was there (and now I really want to go to Santorini). But the parts in India are just as good. Amby is a great narrator and I love Balachandran’s writing; it’s funny without being over the top, and I wasn’t surprised to read in the acknowledgements that she has actually worked in advertising and done a writers’ workshop in Greece.
The only thing that let’s down this book a little is the romance. It feels a bit like an afterthought that was resolved a little too quickly. However, I don’t consider this book a romance so it didn’t bother me too much.
For me this is a 4.5-star read, and I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more books by this author.
*** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***
The only thing that let’s down this book a little is the romance. It feels a bit like an afterthought that was resolved a little too quickly. However, I don’t consider this book a romance so it didn’t bother me too much.
For me this is a 4.5-star read, and I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more books by this author.
*** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***
June 16, 2017
4 stars
This novel is narrated by Amby Balan who is tired of working for CitiBank in India. She is bored working for the multinational bank and is looking for relief somewhere else. She spots an ad for a writers’ retreat on the island of Greece and it sounds heavenly.
She meets some interesting and exciting people on the journey to Greece and they immediately become friends. One writes children’s books and dreams of publishing an erotic novel. Another aspires to be a travel writer.
They have a rollicking good time in Greece and along the way share laughs and just possibly meet a love interest.
This book has its share of laughs and quirky situations. It is well written and plotted. I liked the characters. They were fun to read about. Well done Ms. Balachandran!
I want to thank Netgalley and Jacaranda Books/Jacaranda for forwarding to me a copy of this fun book to read.
This novel is narrated by Amby Balan who is tired of working for CitiBank in India. She is bored working for the multinational bank and is looking for relief somewhere else. She spots an ad for a writers’ retreat on the island of Greece and it sounds heavenly.
She meets some interesting and exciting people on the journey to Greece and they immediately become friends. One writes children’s books and dreams of publishing an erotic novel. Another aspires to be a travel writer.
They have a rollicking good time in Greece and along the way share laughs and just possibly meet a love interest.
This book has its share of laughs and quirky situations. It is well written and plotted. I liked the characters. They were fun to read about. Well done Ms. Balachandran!
I want to thank Netgalley and Jacaranda Books/Jacaranda for forwarding to me a copy of this fun book to read.
October 18, 2017
Cute, funny book about following your dreams. I enjoyed the settings of India and Greece. However, the story felt like it was more tell than show and the main romance was poorly developed.
I got a free copy from NetGalley.
3.5 stars
I got a free copy from NetGalley.
3.5 stars
November 14, 2024
Funny, witty. This is an easy, light read to get you out of a reading slump or to give your mind and heart a break after a heavy read.
August 11, 2016
I finished reading this book a week back, but I forgot to write a review. I have been following Speaking Tiger Books, a new yet classy publishing house ever since I attended Chetan Raj Shrestha's book launch for his new book published by them. The paper quality is excellent, as is the cover. They publish fewer commercial titles than other publishers, so this one caught my eye. I happened to read an excerpt of the book on their website, and I liked the language. So I thought of giving it a try, despite it sounding like a chick-lit. I generally don't prefer the genre but by the looks of it, the language seemed classy enough for me to get lured.
The story is racy, has dollops of romance, and is generally well-written. You kind of go with the flow and want to read more and more. The language is decent throughout, although sometimes it does shine and become literary. But those are few and far in between. But overall its good. However, there is an overuse of parenthesis and exclamation marks (maybe because of the genre, but still I felt so). Many dialogues were way too cheesy for my liking. As far as the writing style is concerned, in the beginning there's far too much direct telling than showing (especially for the back stories). Well-written showy flashbacks would have been better I suppose. However, once the writers reach Crete, the writing raises its level and becomes beautiful. Showing overshadows the telling, and the emotions of the protagonists were captured in an excellent manner. The descriptions are done wonderfully, using wonderful prose.
But, despite my dissatisfaction regarding the way the story was told, the plot itself is good and interesting. The author has connected the dots well. The romance and the dilemma in the protagonist's mind is well portrayed. Sometimes I felt that if the author had stuck only to the protagonist, removed the other two characters (who didn't add much), and focused on them more, it would have become a much better book.
Also, the ending was too predictable, which spoiled the overall effect. But, despite all my complaints, this book is special, for it gave me that one exceptionally written line which helped me a lot in framing better sentences in my second novel. It really is a source of inspiration, and I must thank the author for that.
This is a book worth reading. Its a quick, light read with good language. Chick lit lovers should lap it up without a second thought. But avid readers might think twice.
3.5 stars from my side.
The story is racy, has dollops of romance, and is generally well-written. You kind of go with the flow and want to read more and more. The language is decent throughout, although sometimes it does shine and become literary. But those are few and far in between. But overall its good. However, there is an overuse of parenthesis and exclamation marks (maybe because of the genre, but still I felt so). Many dialogues were way too cheesy for my liking. As far as the writing style is concerned, in the beginning there's far too much direct telling than showing (especially for the back stories). Well-written showy flashbacks would have been better I suppose. However, once the writers reach Crete, the writing raises its level and becomes beautiful. Showing overshadows the telling, and the emotions of the protagonists were captured in an excellent manner. The descriptions are done wonderfully, using wonderful prose.
But, despite my dissatisfaction regarding the way the story was told, the plot itself is good and interesting. The author has connected the dots well. The romance and the dilemma in the protagonist's mind is well portrayed. Sometimes I felt that if the author had stuck only to the protagonist, removed the other two characters (who didn't add much), and focused on them more, it would have become a much better book.
Also, the ending was too predictable, which spoiled the overall effect. But, despite all my complaints, this book is special, for it gave me that one exceptionally written line which helped me a lot in framing better sentences in my second novel. It really is a source of inspiration, and I must thank the author for that.
This is a book worth reading. Its a quick, light read with good language. Chick lit lovers should lap it up without a second thought. But avid readers might think twice.
3.5 stars from my side.
March 2, 2016
Runaway Writers by author Indu Balachandran is a very hilarious, romantic and fun read indeed. The author captures her reader’s attention very well with the aid of her smart one liners and an in depth analysis of the twisted side of peoples’ characters, which I find pretty amazing. I would definitely compare her work similar to that of Irish writer Marian Keyes, with an Indian touch to it and very captivating.
As the title suggests, this story is about three writers who sort of ‘run away’ from their regular jobs to follow a writing career of their own to a writers’ workshop in beautiful Greece. What follows is a wonderfully refreshing story of romance, comedy, friendship, gossip and of course, what it means to be a writer at the end of it all. The story also manages to bring out what it means to follow your dreams at the risk of losing fame, fortune, status etc. The ‘runaway’ writers in this novel are Amby, Bobby and Mini; the first being from a rigid Tamil Brahmin family who works as a ghost Twitter writer for a film star in India, the second being a famous advertising copywriter and the third a children’s writer with a very delicate frame. Through these three women, we get to understand about relationships, family norms, comradery and about love in the true sense of the term.
What I admire about Runaway Writers is its brutal honesty and spontaneous humor. For a foreign audience, I would state that this book is a finer type of literature that India especially, urban India is producing after 2010 which is a revolution in itself where literature is concerned and where our global space in society is concerned. Don’t miss out the hilarious descriptions of Amby’s strict Tamil Brahmin family, Amby’s love/hate relationship with her film star boss KayKay, the vividly beautiful descriptions of Greece, the innovative writers’ workshop that all three main protagonists attend and the funny one liners.
I would frankly recommend this book to anyone who wants a fast and light read especially if the reader is in the process of going on a vacation. Young adults are equally welcome to read the book as there are no swear words or any other indecencies where a line ought to be drawn where Y.A readers are concerned.
All in all, a nice and pleasant read indeed. Hope to be getting to read more of Indu Balachandran’s books in the near future.
As the title suggests, this story is about three writers who sort of ‘run away’ from their regular jobs to follow a writing career of their own to a writers’ workshop in beautiful Greece. What follows is a wonderfully refreshing story of romance, comedy, friendship, gossip and of course, what it means to be a writer at the end of it all. The story also manages to bring out what it means to follow your dreams at the risk of losing fame, fortune, status etc. The ‘runaway’ writers in this novel are Amby, Bobby and Mini; the first being from a rigid Tamil Brahmin family who works as a ghost Twitter writer for a film star in India, the second being a famous advertising copywriter and the third a children’s writer with a very delicate frame. Through these three women, we get to understand about relationships, family norms, comradery and about love in the true sense of the term.
What I admire about Runaway Writers is its brutal honesty and spontaneous humor. For a foreign audience, I would state that this book is a finer type of literature that India especially, urban India is producing after 2010 which is a revolution in itself where literature is concerned and where our global space in society is concerned. Don’t miss out the hilarious descriptions of Amby’s strict Tamil Brahmin family, Amby’s love/hate relationship with her film star boss KayKay, the vividly beautiful descriptions of Greece, the innovative writers’ workshop that all three main protagonists attend and the funny one liners.
I would frankly recommend this book to anyone who wants a fast and light read especially if the reader is in the process of going on a vacation. Young adults are equally welcome to read the book as there are no swear words or any other indecencies where a line ought to be drawn where Y.A readers are concerned.
All in all, a nice and pleasant read indeed. Hope to be getting to read more of Indu Balachandran’s books in the near future.
February 13, 2017
A quick, fun bit of escapism.
April 24, 2016
“Now why did I think that anyone hiring a Tweet writer would have talcum powder on his chest-hair, wear white shoes and a safari suit, read only Chetan Bhagat, and groove only to Kolaveri di?” Runaway Writers is replete with clever, contemporary references, abuzz with sharp wit and asks that all-important millennial question “Should I be doing this (great) job?” Indu Balachandran has crafted a non-stop joy ride as we live vicariously through its word-smart Tam-Brahm protagonist Amby. She becomes a Twitter ghost-writer for a movie star, finds writer soul-sisters in romantic Greece and runs into café eavesdroppers while negotiating unexpected twists and turns, this is a fun, racy trip all the way. Book your tickets or simply pick up the book – it feels like the perfect holiday.
August 11, 2016
3.5 stars actually. The book did keep me gripped for most part of it, though my interest waned somewhere in between. The fact that it was about writers somehow made me go through it. The totally predictable ending coupled with me being quite indifferent to the chick-lit genre did make me roll my eyes, but I must admit there were some charming episodes of romance which I enjoyed. What I relished the most was the vicarious attendance of a writers' retreat in Greece.
Read
May 24, 2021Runaway Writers by Indu Balachandran is a story of three ambitious women- Amby, Bobby and Mini. The story follows these women who have the supposedly best job in the world, but they long for more. They break free of the societal norms and pursue their dreams. This book has everything ranging from societal pressure to familial expectations to heartwarming love story to desi filmy masala.
It had everything I had expected from it but what really stumped me was how much I related to the little things about the Indian household mentioned in the book. Also I really liked the fact that everything in the lives of these women didn't go exactly as planned. They hit some little bumps along the road or had to completely change their path, but they learnt to make the best out of what they had.
It was supposed to be a light and breezy story about friendship and travel, but it had much more than that. It was a story of self-discovery .
I would definitely recommend this book as a light summer read.
It had everything I had expected from it but what really stumped me was how much I related to the little things about the Indian household mentioned in the book. Also I really liked the fact that everything in the lives of these women didn't go exactly as planned. They hit some little bumps along the road or had to completely change their path, but they learnt to make the best out of what they had.
It was supposed to be a light and breezy story about friendship and travel, but it had much more than that. It was a story of self-discovery .
I would definitely recommend this book as a light summer read.
February 5, 2018
I’m not expecting much and it’s a good thing since I really enjoyed the story. It is light and fun and quite entertaining. Amby is the main character and is a very likeable one. The story is focused on her since she is also the narrator. Bobby and Mini are as fun to know as Amby, as well. Their stories are as interesting as Amby and I think I would appreciate it better if the two girls share their own perspective. The setting, of course, is beautiful. Makes you want to pack bags and head off to Greece. I wish. It is also good to read about the Indian culture which is truly fascinating. This book is not only fun and humorous, it is also well-written, plus the cover is lovely. It is an entertaining read about friendship, self-discovery and a bit of romance. Although, I’m not so sold on the romance. I feel like it was just a filler for the book to be a romantic comedy. Despite that, I still enjoyed reading The Writer’s Retreat and I would love to read more from the author.
May 26, 2022
Don't trust Anuja Chauhan's 3 adjectives on the cover page. It was also racist without being aware of it at all (of course), reading red flags as romance, and just a tad bit witty. Summary: 3 writers go to Greece for a Writing Workshop and somehow (don't know how) things work out for them. My take away was that it taught me how to repeat the summary of the story in various twisted (read: witty according to the blurb writer) ways and still keep repeating the same point. It's a doable read and yes in that way you don't have to worry your reading progress. So cheers if one has been unable to read a book 📖 completely in a long time, because this will also irritate your neurons from time to time. Such that after reading it, one will congratulate themselves as they would have also identified what learning to read better (and in other words demand better stories) would look like 🎈
August 2, 2017
This was such a fun read and very different from the usual romcoms I've read with it having Indian characters and set in India. Some of the names I struggled with but after a while I didn't care if I pronounced their names incorrectly as I was drawn into the characters and their personality. I loved the premise of the story three different women wishing to fulfil their dreams of becoming a writer and taking the plunge going on a retreat thousands of miles away to Greece. The different settings and culture from India to Greece worked well and I felt the thrill of their eyes experiencing new sites myself. The romance was a slow burning one which made it all the more special when the flames actually grew stronger. A gorgeous, fun romcom that made me smile and melted my heart.
August 25, 2023
Travel time story,Not quite boring.Author have used some of romantic locations which was a lovely set up,like greece.I took out a great geographical learning about greece but a little bit miss like if the author could have expressed something about the local culture,tradition,Way of life of locals would have considerably created some more magnetic effect upon reader i mean my self(Personal Belief).Also this book can serve some purpose for wanna be writers also,As it gives you some set of pattern & characteristics that should be incorporated by beginner.Enjoyed reading,Thank you author.
July 8, 2024
"Runaway Writers" is an enchanting story that revolves around the lives of three characters, Amby, Bobby, and Mini, as they embark on a writing workshop in Greece.
As the story moves, the author skillfully depicts the growth of each character, allowing readers to witness their individual journeys in the realm of writing.✍
“Runaway Writers” leaves readers with a warm, satisfying conclusion that connects the enduring power of friendship, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one's passions.✨
As the story moves, the author skillfully depicts the growth of each character, allowing readers to witness their individual journeys in the realm of writing.✍
“Runaway Writers” leaves readers with a warm, satisfying conclusion that connects the enduring power of friendship, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one's passions.✨
September 2, 2018
I don't usually write reviews but "The Writer's Retreat" is an exception. It is one of the best books in the Chick Lit Genre I have read. It was such a fun read and I loved all the characters. Well done to Indu Balachandran for writing this book. Just a final note, I am at least 30-40 years older than the target audience and still loved it.
September 27, 2018
Fast, fun summer read! I thought it was inspiring! I'd love to be young and have opportunities like this again! Of course, money would be helpful, too... Still, I think it was a fun romp of a chick lit story others will find enjoyable.
I received a Kindle ARC in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
I received a Kindle ARC in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
October 4, 2018
A pleasant story that I read in a day whilst on holiday. I preferred it once the setting had moved to Greece as felt I could associate with it more. Thank you to NetGalley, Jacaranda books and the author for the chance to review.
December 25, 2017
Nonsense.
June 21, 2020
A thoroughly enjoyable book about love, romance, and writing!
Actually enjoyed it more than I expected. Could have done better with being a but shorter though, especially in the middle.
Actually enjoyed it more than I expected. Could have done better with being a but shorter though, especially in the middle.
January 18, 2023
I didn't really expect much but it didn't disappoint. It was a light and funny read. Would recommend it if you want to unwind.
June 14, 2017
What a delightful gem of a novel! Three brown women on a picturesque book cover drew me in but relatable characters and believable challenges had me devouring this book.
July 17, 2017
Which girl can resist travel, romance, soul-searching, creativity and wit?
It is amazing how much I got out of a single reading (and I am starting all over again!). I raced through it because it was such fun to follow Amby, Mini and Bobby who follow their urge to find their true calling, in exotic Crete.
And now, I want to go back to study those terrific creativity exercises, relish again the witty wisecracks, the light-hearted romance and the cast of characters who light up the pages. And then, it set me also thinking about my own motivations - from who I think I am (job title!), to who I really could be (wandering bohemian?) - and am I really following my bliss?!
Now to me, a book that takes you back to yourself, is a richer read. And Writers' Retreat does just that. It's a huggable book!
It is amazing how much I got out of a single reading (and I am starting all over again!). I raced through it because it was such fun to follow Amby, Mini and Bobby who follow their urge to find their true calling, in exotic Crete.
And now, I want to go back to study those terrific creativity exercises, relish again the witty wisecracks, the light-hearted romance and the cast of characters who light up the pages. And then, it set me also thinking about my own motivations - from who I think I am (job title!), to who I really could be (wandering bohemian?) - and am I really following my bliss?!
Now to me, a book that takes you back to yourself, is a richer read. And Writers' Retreat does just that. It's a huggable book!
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