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Twenty-nine Going on Thirty
Priya is turning thirty and is overwhelmed. Living in Bengaluru with her best friend, Farida, and working as the social media head of a software firm, she's feeling the weight of becoming a responsible thirty-year-old. Not just this, she also has to fend off her mother's persistent queries about when she intends to get married. Things begin to look up when Priya bumps into her charming new neighbour, Ajay. Sparks fly, but she soon finds out that he's a widower and has some baggage to deal with.
Thankfully, Priya finds moral support in the fact that her friends Farida, Mini and Namrata are approaching the three-O milestone too. Free-spirited Farida, shy Namrata, feisty Mini and Priya are brought together by family drama, boy trouble, and the fast-approaching birthdays. As they navigate love and friendships, they realize there's a difference between growing up and growing old . . .
Thankfully, Priya finds moral support in the fact that her friends Farida, Mini and Namrata are approaching the three-O milestone too. Free-spirited Farida, shy Namrata, feisty Mini and Priya are brought together by family drama, boy trouble, and the fast-approaching birthdays. As they navigate love and friendships, they realize there's a difference between growing up and growing old . . .
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2018
10 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Andaleeb Wajid
77 books208 followersAndaleeb Wajid is the author of more than 35 novels. She writes romance, young adult, horror and speculative fiction.
For more details, check her website.
For more details, check her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 25, 2019
‘Raconteur’. The word is used by Arvind, the not-too-lovable boss of our lovable protagonist Priya (how appropriately named!), to describe himself. The word would better describe Andaleeb Wajid instead. I was floored by the writing chops she displayed in When She Went Away, her 2015 Young Adult book about two teenage siblings and their Abbu dealing with a messy divorce of sorts.
I wanted to see a little more of Wajid's élan in bringing out lovely little details in the lives of ordinary Bengalureans, and TNgoT hits the nail on the head. In this corporate set-up, it is easy to sacrifice everything at the altar of kaam-dhandha, but that can quickly sap your zest for living an enriching life. The five central characters—four office girls and a widower with a small daughter—come across as people you feel are just like you, and people you would want to be with, who stick together in the face of adversity rather than playing the fair-weather friend.
Everyone has quite a lot on their plate in this book, but they all ride out the storm. The strong-headed Mini swears like a trooper but, amid the F-bombs she drops, she is quite the harried workplace woman; she wears her heart on her sleeve and finds it difficult to overcome her break-up. At first (the again appropriately-named) Namrata is a timid girl who wouldn't hurt a fly, let alone stand up to her domineering family and face her crush Vinay; however, thanks to her partners-in-crime Mini and Priya, this is exactly what a rebooted Namrata pulls off.
Then you have Priya who, while not emotionally worried herself, has to play peacemaker among warring factions, and juggle everyone's problems while maintaining the friendly face. Her flatmate Farida is no less determined to kick out her money-minded relatives who are after her house, but, in the process, she must confront her feelings for her long-lost cousin Irshad. And then there's Ajay, who finds the perfect soulmate in Priya, but can the brooding man with a tragic past accept a new woman in his life?
A few of the small-time characters stand out for their being unconventional: there's Hrishita, for one, who—perhaps thanks to her #pregnancyhormones—delivers a smackdown climactic performance to clear the air about her relationship with Mini. I even enjoyed how the rebellious 24-year-old intern Amrita finally gets her comeuppance for taking advantage of the Namrata–Vinay situation by missing out on all the action in the middle.
By way of Chicken Soups for the Soul, Wajid whips up an especially tantalising one with a dash of Bengalurean spice, as her army of 29-year-olds in TNgoT warm your way into your heart the way chicken soup does on a good ol’ rainy day—or just about any given day.
I wanted to see a little more of Wajid's élan in bringing out lovely little details in the lives of ordinary Bengalureans, and TNgoT hits the nail on the head. In this corporate set-up, it is easy to sacrifice everything at the altar of kaam-dhandha, but that can quickly sap your zest for living an enriching life. The five central characters—four office girls and a widower with a small daughter—come across as people you feel are just like you, and people you would want to be with, who stick together in the face of adversity rather than playing the fair-weather friend.
Everyone has quite a lot on their plate in this book, but they all ride out the storm. The strong-headed Mini swears like a trooper but, amid the F-bombs she drops, she is quite the harried workplace woman; she wears her heart on her sleeve and finds it difficult to overcome her break-up. At first (the again appropriately-named) Namrata is a timid girl who wouldn't hurt a fly, let alone stand up to her domineering family and face her crush Vinay; however, thanks to her partners-in-crime Mini and Priya, this is exactly what a rebooted Namrata pulls off.
Then you have Priya who, while not emotionally worried herself, has to play peacemaker among warring factions, and juggle everyone's problems while maintaining the friendly face. Her flatmate Farida is no less determined to kick out her money-minded relatives who are after her house, but, in the process, she must confront her feelings for her long-lost cousin Irshad. And then there's Ajay, who finds the perfect soulmate in Priya, but can the brooding man with a tragic past accept a new woman in his life?
A few of the small-time characters stand out for their being unconventional: there's Hrishita, for one, who—perhaps thanks to her #pregnancyhormones—delivers a smackdown climactic performance to clear the air about her relationship with Mini. I even enjoyed how the rebellious 24-year-old intern Amrita finally gets her comeuppance for taking advantage of the Namrata–Vinay situation by missing out on all the action in the middle.
By way of Chicken Soups for the Soul, Wajid whips up an especially tantalising one with a dash of Bengalurean spice, as her army of 29-year-olds in TNgoT warm your way into your heart the way chicken soup does on a good ol’ rainy day—or just about any given day.
March 5, 2018
Enthralling. Captivating. I devoured it in one sitting. Andaleeb makes us believe that you do not have to be of certain age to find love and happiness in your life. It can come to you anytime.
February 7, 2020
Light read. Language was super breezy and chill. This is the second book I bought by Andaleeb Wajid. This has multiple characters and their lives are nicely balanced through the story. This has several elements of age, family-drama, jobs, love, complicated relationships and fidelity. Overall a one-time good read for the millennial audience. I am becoming familiar with her writing style, and definitely wajid is one such Indian author anyone can read and won't be disappointed.
August 17, 2018
Reminded me of my crazy 30th birthday. So relateable.
Loved the brilliant plot and writing
Loved the brilliant plot and writing
March 3, 2018
Twenty-nine going on Thirty is a story that deals with four women who are almost thirty years old and are dealing with all the judgement that comes the way of an unmarried girl late in her twenties. Priya, our main protagonist, has a job that she is good at but has to deal with her mother pestering her about her marital status. Mini, an intimidating Goth chick who chews men and spits them out has a broken heart that is proving difficult to get over. Farida, an easy going artist is hung-up on a childhood crush and does not find anyone else who can hold a candle to the man of her dreams. Namrata, the timid girl has trouble getting out of the clutches of her over-bearing family.
I was pleasantly surprised to see that the story was interesting and encompassed the emotions, feelings and interactions of a wide range of characters. It is well written and dealt bravely with the conflicts that every young adult faces in a very non-judgmental manner. The entry of men who seem too good to be true threw twists in the tale. The ending seemed a bit bollywood-esque with its usual corrupt relatives, thugs and the hospital drama but the book has several other redeeming qualities that make up for the last few pages.
The characters made me feel comfortable and I could relate to a lot of their predicaments. I was really happy that it portrayed women in a positive light and depicted their strength in adverse situations.
I was pleasantly surprised to see that the story was interesting and encompassed the emotions, feelings and interactions of a wide range of characters. It is well written and dealt bravely with the conflicts that every young adult faces in a very non-judgmental manner. The entry of men who seem too good to be true threw twists in the tale. The ending seemed a bit bollywood-esque with its usual corrupt relatives, thugs and the hospital drama but the book has several other redeeming qualities that make up for the last few pages.
The characters made me feel comfortable and I could relate to a lot of their predicaments. I was really happy that it portrayed women in a positive light and depicted their strength in adverse situations.
June 30, 2018
Read my full review at http://www.diaryofabookgirl.in/2018/0...
So I read this book and it has been a treat. This is one of those sweet treats you give to yourself after a long day at work or college (or a long day anywhere). This book is funny and quirky and all those adjectives related to funny. Believe me or not I completed this book in 2 sittings. Not that it was gripping or thrilling, but reading this book has been a fun experience for me. It has amazing one-liners and TV series references and sarcastic comebacks that actually made me guffaw. This book is recommended to everyone who loves reading an easy-breezy romantic comedy.
This is the story of Priya and her 3 girl friends. Priya is just 29 and has a constantly nagging mother who nags about getting Priya married. But Priya and her girl friends have there own life problems - from office crushes to terrible heartbreaks, the 4 women goes through all, and being 29 makes everything more miserable (and comical).
So I read this book and it has been a treat. This is one of those sweet treats you give to yourself after a long day at work or college (or a long day anywhere). This book is funny and quirky and all those adjectives related to funny. Believe me or not I completed this book in 2 sittings. Not that it was gripping or thrilling, but reading this book has been a fun experience for me. It has amazing one-liners and TV series references and sarcastic comebacks that actually made me guffaw. This book is recommended to everyone who loves reading an easy-breezy romantic comedy.
This is the story of Priya and her 3 girl friends. Priya is just 29 and has a constantly nagging mother who nags about getting Priya married. But Priya and her girl friends have there own life problems - from office crushes to terrible heartbreaks, the 4 women goes through all, and being 29 makes everything more miserable (and comical).
September 8, 2022
"This is even better than a movie. All that's missing is a tub of hot buttered popcorn."
Trust the writer when she says this, for the book "Twenty-nine Going On Thirty" by author Andaleeb Wajid is filled with drama, emotions, humour and tiny surprises. And don't be misled by the narrator's voice forbidding everyone to keep family drama away from work. Because that's definitely something which we all are set to enjoy.
The book sets the stage with Priya who is soon going to turn thirty. And with everything that the number brings, she is left to feel a little overwhelmed. But soon she realises that she isn't alone in the journey. Her best friend and present roommate, Farida is too approaching that dreaded number along with her employee, Namrata and her colleague, Mini.
Drama unfolds when Priya meets with her charming but widowed neighbor, Ajay and sparks fly all over. Home and office isn't far from drama as well. At home, Priya has to deal with the teenager instincts of the free-spirited Farida, while at office she balances between protecting the shy Namrata and controlling the feisty Mini.
The four women are brought together in interesting turn of events spiced with family drama, boy trouble and their fast approaching birthdays. But still, there is a certain comfort in traveling towards that three-O milestone in the same train as their friends. And the journey navigating through love and friendship makes them realize the difference between growing up and growing old.
Touching upon the genre of romance, there is nothing clichéd about this story. It's nothing near the cringy teenage romance novels but a thoroughly matured one. Though, at times the story does showcase that no matter what age we are at, when it comes to love, we all become a fifteen year old!
Wit, sarcasm and humour along with mini surprises did their best work in this remarkable book capturing family drama that's totally relatable and conveying emotions that are bound to tug at the heart strings of the readers.
The most astounding aspect of the book is its perfect character sketch. Not only are the characters relatable, but they react in the exact way as one would when stuck in their situations.
The best thing worth noticing about the four women characters is their growth. Towards the end, none of them are what they were at the beginning. They have undergone a drastic change and grown up in a way they never dared to imagine.
Hence, even though the ending didn't carry the smell of "lived happily ever after" but it did bring a hint of the characters being in a superior position where they have greater hold over their life, ready to deal with anything that the future might enfold.
So, the story may have been wound around the phase where a twenty-nine year old is approaching to become a responsible thirty year old, but that phase is enough to teach them the lessons of a lifetime. No wonder the writer weaves in her final expression with a huge relief!
"Thank God, a thirtieth birthday comes just once in a lifetime!"
Trust the writer when she says this, for the book "Twenty-nine Going On Thirty" by author Andaleeb Wajid is filled with drama, emotions, humour and tiny surprises. And don't be misled by the narrator's voice forbidding everyone to keep family drama away from work. Because that's definitely something which we all are set to enjoy.
The book sets the stage with Priya who is soon going to turn thirty. And with everything that the number brings, she is left to feel a little overwhelmed. But soon she realises that she isn't alone in the journey. Her best friend and present roommate, Farida is too approaching that dreaded number along with her employee, Namrata and her colleague, Mini.
Drama unfolds when Priya meets with her charming but widowed neighbor, Ajay and sparks fly all over. Home and office isn't far from drama as well. At home, Priya has to deal with the teenager instincts of the free-spirited Farida, while at office she balances between protecting the shy Namrata and controlling the feisty Mini.
The four women are brought together in interesting turn of events spiced with family drama, boy trouble and their fast approaching birthdays. But still, there is a certain comfort in traveling towards that three-O milestone in the same train as their friends. And the journey navigating through love and friendship makes them realize the difference between growing up and growing old.
Touching upon the genre of romance, there is nothing clichéd about this story. It's nothing near the cringy teenage romance novels but a thoroughly matured one. Though, at times the story does showcase that no matter what age we are at, when it comes to love, we all become a fifteen year old!
Wit, sarcasm and humour along with mini surprises did their best work in this remarkable book capturing family drama that's totally relatable and conveying emotions that are bound to tug at the heart strings of the readers.
The most astounding aspect of the book is its perfect character sketch. Not only are the characters relatable, but they react in the exact way as one would when stuck in their situations.
The best thing worth noticing about the four women characters is their growth. Towards the end, none of them are what they were at the beginning. They have undergone a drastic change and grown up in a way they never dared to imagine.
Hence, even though the ending didn't carry the smell of "lived happily ever after" but it did bring a hint of the characters being in a superior position where they have greater hold over their life, ready to deal with anything that the future might enfold.
So, the story may have been wound around the phase where a twenty-nine year old is approaching to become a responsible thirty year old, but that phase is enough to teach them the lessons of a lifetime. No wonder the writer weaves in her final expression with a huge relief!
"Thank God, a thirtieth birthday comes just once in a lifetime!"
March 24, 2018
The book revolves around the lives of four women – Priya, Farida, Namrata and Mini. Each one of them is different but what binds them together is that they are going to turn thirty soon. Each one of them has their own set of problems to deal with.
Priya is a social media head of a software company and finds it difficult to deal with the fact that she is almost thirty. Being unmarried doesn’t help her cause as her mother is keen on getting her married and is worried that she is turning thirty. Priya is charmed by Ajay, her new neighbour.
Farida is Priya’s best friend and both of them live together. Farida’s parents died when she was thirteen and a woman claiming to be her relative occupied her house and Farida had to run away from her own house because of this woman and her husband. She doesn’t know how to deal with these people who have been living in a house that is hers. She still thinks about her childhood crush whom she can’t seem to get over.
Mini works as a software engineer in the same office as Priya. She’s known in her office circles for her goth chick looks. Mini is heartbroken after an awkward breakup and she still hasn’t found closure as there are questions for which she still hasn’t found the answers.
Namrata is the shy girl of the lot. She has a family that bullies her and controls her life while she thinks about her prince charming.
Will all of them find what they are looking for?
A lot of things seem to happen once these four women come together and become friends. There are good times and bad. But these four women seem to stick together through it all though initially all of them didn’t get along well. There is love that is lost and there is love that is found. There is the ordinariness of daily life, while at times there is lots of drama. The book brings about the emotions they go through, which we can all connect at some point.
What I liked about the book is that it brings out the best of women friendships. The book also portrays strong female characters who are independent and are capable of taking care of themselves. The book is an interesting read. It deals with a range of emotions and situations that an almost thirty year old woman would have to deal with. Once you start reading, it doesn’t take long for you to find your connection with the characters. The never ending list of questions about love, finding comfort in food, chilling with Netflix and that feeling of growing older without having achieved anything great in life. I personally like the way the author builds up her stories based on each of these characters – each character having a story of her own and then bringing it all together. This book is easy to read – a quick read in my opinion.
The only thing that I didn’t quite like about the book was that ending seemed to be a little bollywood-like. If not for that, I really enjoyed reading the book.
Read the review on my blog : https://reemadsouza.com/2018/03/bookr...
Priya is a social media head of a software company and finds it difficult to deal with the fact that she is almost thirty. Being unmarried doesn’t help her cause as her mother is keen on getting her married and is worried that she is turning thirty. Priya is charmed by Ajay, her new neighbour.
Farida is Priya’s best friend and both of them live together. Farida’s parents died when she was thirteen and a woman claiming to be her relative occupied her house and Farida had to run away from her own house because of this woman and her husband. She doesn’t know how to deal with these people who have been living in a house that is hers. She still thinks about her childhood crush whom she can’t seem to get over.
Mini works as a software engineer in the same office as Priya. She’s known in her office circles for her goth chick looks. Mini is heartbroken after an awkward breakup and she still hasn’t found closure as there are questions for which she still hasn’t found the answers.
Namrata is the shy girl of the lot. She has a family that bullies her and controls her life while she thinks about her prince charming.
Will all of them find what they are looking for?
A lot of things seem to happen once these four women come together and become friends. There are good times and bad. But these four women seem to stick together through it all though initially all of them didn’t get along well. There is love that is lost and there is love that is found. There is the ordinariness of daily life, while at times there is lots of drama. The book brings about the emotions they go through, which we can all connect at some point.
What I liked about the book is that it brings out the best of women friendships. The book also portrays strong female characters who are independent and are capable of taking care of themselves. The book is an interesting read. It deals with a range of emotions and situations that an almost thirty year old woman would have to deal with. Once you start reading, it doesn’t take long for you to find your connection with the characters. The never ending list of questions about love, finding comfort in food, chilling with Netflix and that feeling of growing older without having achieved anything great in life. I personally like the way the author builds up her stories based on each of these characters – each character having a story of her own and then bringing it all together. This book is easy to read – a quick read in my opinion.
The only thing that I didn’t quite like about the book was that ending seemed to be a little bollywood-like. If not for that, I really enjoyed reading the book.
Read the review on my blog : https://reemadsouza.com/2018/03/bookr...
December 28, 2019
Twenty nine going on Thirty
Andaleeb Wajid
My Rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Pure entertaining life Drama in the life of 30's.
Full of ups and downs in a rollercoaster ride.
1. The cover is really nice and pretty as per the setting of the book.
2. Title is also apt as it deals with four stories of people going thirty.
3. Tha Language is easy to understand and very simple.
4. It deals with the real life situation of four single people who are about to turn thirty.
5. The entire plot is divided into four individual stories dealing with a real life challenges.
6. First story is about a girl who is turning thirty in a few months, is still single and keeps under pressure of getting married.
7. She met with a guy next door with a daughter and is impressed by the charm and personality on one hand but confused & indecisive on the other aa he has to deal with his wife's lookalike.
8. Second story deals with a girl who is shy and lacks confidence in herself due to which she is facing the harsh environment and brutalities in her house by her in-laws. She had a soft heart for someone at the workplace but unable to express herself.
9. Third story deals with a girl who is dealing with relationship issues with her boyfriend who is already married. He wants to get out of his marriage but unable to do so but also not ready to come off the relationship with his girlfriend.
10. Last story deals with a girl who lost her parents in an accident at a very young age and her entire house is captured by Reshma Phuppu and her husband. She is unable to take a decision on selling the house which is left by her father as long as she got the deeds. Her only support in the family is her distant close cousin.
11. All the stories are interlinked with each another until one situation comes after another leading to all four coming together as best friends.
12. They all are about to turn thirty in a few months time and they helped each other providing moral support and encouraging to deal with their respective issues.
13. There are lots of funny, emotional, intimate moments through which they all can see a great change in their lives.
14. One should definitely read this Book.
Andaleeb Wajid
My Rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Pure entertaining life Drama in the life of 30's.
Full of ups and downs in a rollercoaster ride.
1. The cover is really nice and pretty as per the setting of the book.
2. Title is also apt as it deals with four stories of people going thirty.
3. Tha Language is easy to understand and very simple.
4. It deals with the real life situation of four single people who are about to turn thirty.
5. The entire plot is divided into four individual stories dealing with a real life challenges.
6. First story is about a girl who is turning thirty in a few months, is still single and keeps under pressure of getting married.
7. She met with a guy next door with a daughter and is impressed by the charm and personality on one hand but confused & indecisive on the other aa he has to deal with his wife's lookalike.
8. Second story deals with a girl who is shy and lacks confidence in herself due to which she is facing the harsh environment and brutalities in her house by her in-laws. She had a soft heart for someone at the workplace but unable to express herself.
9. Third story deals with a girl who is dealing with relationship issues with her boyfriend who is already married. He wants to get out of his marriage but unable to do so but also not ready to come off the relationship with his girlfriend.
10. Last story deals with a girl who lost her parents in an accident at a very young age and her entire house is captured by Reshma Phuppu and her husband. She is unable to take a decision on selling the house which is left by her father as long as she got the deeds. Her only support in the family is her distant close cousin.
11. All the stories are interlinked with each another until one situation comes after another leading to all four coming together as best friends.
12. They all are about to turn thirty in a few months time and they helped each other providing moral support and encouraging to deal with their respective issues.
13. There are lots of funny, emotional, intimate moments through which they all can see a great change in their lives.
14. One should definitely read this Book.
July 27, 2021
Priya is turning thirty in two months and is miserable thinking of her age, her bratty interns and her nosy mother who keeps pestering her to get married. She meets Ajay by chance in a departmental store who not only happens to be her hot new neighbour but also a father to a five year old! But Priya can’t stop her heart from behaving strangely in the presence of Ajay. Amidst her mother playing a matchmaker, the only breather (or drama) Priya has in her life is her best friend Farida’s (mis)adventurous life and their blossoming friendship with Natasha, Mini and Vinay. In a strange coincidience, the ladies gang is turning thirty and each one must take charge of their lives!
What has the thirtieth birthday in store for Priya? What are the mis-adventures in the life of Farida? How do these poles apart twenty-nine year individuals become great friends and tackle the situations in their life? Will Priya and Ajay be able to turn the odds in their favour?
I read All Drama No Queen first and I realized I had to read the prequel. The language is lucid and the narration is effortless. All the characters in the story are so next-door that you will be able to relate them with someone or the other at your work place. The friendship and the gang is something which everyone will root for. The story is simply extraordinary in an ordinary set-up!!
A light-hearted read recommended for everyone and can be read anytime to lift up the mood.
Read my other reviews by clicking on the following link
https://mintiblog.wordpress.com/
What has the thirtieth birthday in store for Priya? What are the mis-adventures in the life of Farida? How do these poles apart twenty-nine year individuals become great friends and tackle the situations in their life? Will Priya and Ajay be able to turn the odds in their favour?
I read All Drama No Queen first and I realized I had to read the prequel. The language is lucid and the narration is effortless. All the characters in the story are so next-door that you will be able to relate them with someone or the other at your work place. The friendship and the gang is something which everyone will root for. The story is simply extraordinary in an ordinary set-up!!
A light-hearted read recommended for everyone and can be read anytime to lift up the mood.
Read my other reviews by clicking on the following link
https://mintiblog.wordpress.com/
September 9, 2021
Your 20's are a space where you aren't a kid anymore and turn an adult but then someone makes a remark oh you are just 25,you are young. You haven't seen the half of it.
.
Honestly, maybe they are not wrong. I have been harping that line since last 8 months actually since last year and I think it also is one of the main reasons I resonated with Priya, Farida, Mini and even with Amrita for that matter because I was also 21 at one point and had 30 year olds as colleagues and I so wanted to be 30.
.
It's all seems so funny now.
Okay enough about me.
.
Twenty Nine going on Thirty by Andaleeb Wajid talked about four women finding solace in each other's companies whilst trying to keep their work life and love lives in check. Priya is our narrator here and we see the story through her perspective.
.
The story follows lives of Namrata,Priya, Farida and Mini who meet in an office space and out of it too and the story goes on to explore how several incidents in their lives make it dramatic AF and the novel is a reminder of how though it is about finishing up your 20s it's also about the relationships you make around you and how there are certain aspects in your life where you wish to change your ways now that you are/have turned 30.
.
Trust me! I am turning 30 on 14th. So wish me.
.
There's lots happening in their lives and when you read it you will realise if not the same then things are changing for you too.
.
Perfect time for me to read it. Do pick it up because it reminds you of female solidarity and friendships too which are not hunky dory all the time.
.
Honestly, maybe they are not wrong. I have been harping that line since last 8 months actually since last year and I think it also is one of the main reasons I resonated with Priya, Farida, Mini and even with Amrita for that matter because I was also 21 at one point and had 30 year olds as colleagues and I so wanted to be 30.
.
It's all seems so funny now.
Okay enough about me.
.
Twenty Nine going on Thirty by Andaleeb Wajid talked about four women finding solace in each other's companies whilst trying to keep their work life and love lives in check. Priya is our narrator here and we see the story through her perspective.
.
The story follows lives of Namrata,Priya, Farida and Mini who meet in an office space and out of it too and the story goes on to explore how several incidents in their lives make it dramatic AF and the novel is a reminder of how though it is about finishing up your 20s it's also about the relationships you make around you and how there are certain aspects in your life where you wish to change your ways now that you are/have turned 30.
.
Trust me! I am turning 30 on 14th. So wish me.
.
There's lots happening in their lives and when you read it you will realise if not the same then things are changing for you too.
.
Perfect time for me to read it. Do pick it up because it reminds you of female solidarity and friendships too which are not hunky dory all the time.
March 31, 2018
Twenty nine going on Thirty is this super fun, breezy read by Andaleeb Wajid. Initially, when I got this book, I was a little apprehensive about how it would turn out. However, the writing flows smoothly and I was pretty hooked. I ended up finishing the book within 2 days. The plot line is a little cliche but well written and keep's you interested throughout. I will definitely recommend this to people looking to read a light chick-lit.
What I loved about the book:
- Progressive Mothers! Mother happy that someone (specially since it's a divorcee with a young girl) likes her daughter is not something that often happens. However, Priya's mother chooses not to judge her about her choices at any point and openly accepts him.
- Not everyone is a goody two shoes. I liked the way the author develops Farida's story and how she is in love with someone, even at the end of the book, with someone unavailable. Somehow it becomes more realistic when not everyone gets exactly what they wanted.
- The conclusion. Not everyone's life is completely settled and the girls are still figuring out their life. It makes it more believable.
What I disliked about the book:
- The emphasis that everyone in this book who are going to be 30 soon do not look 30. Somehow, this book undoes all it's celebration of thirty by the constant emphasis on looks.
- The cover. Okay, this is a personal peeve but I just wish the cover was designed better.
What I loved about the book:
- Progressive Mothers! Mother happy that someone (specially since it's a divorcee with a young girl) likes her daughter is not something that often happens. However, Priya's mother chooses not to judge her about her choices at any point and openly accepts him.
- Not everyone is a goody two shoes. I liked the way the author develops Farida's story and how she is in love with someone, even at the end of the book, with someone unavailable. Somehow it becomes more realistic when not everyone gets exactly what they wanted.
- The conclusion. Not everyone's life is completely settled and the girls are still figuring out their life. It makes it more believable.
What I disliked about the book:
- The emphasis that everyone in this book who are going to be 30 soon do not look 30. Somehow, this book undoes all it's celebration of thirty by the constant emphasis on looks.
- The cover. Okay, this is a personal peeve but I just wish the cover was designed better.
August 11, 2021
Priya works in a software company in Bangalore and lives with her friend, Farida in a flat. She's about to turn thirty in few months and this is creating a false sense of urgency in her mind. On top of that her mother is putting pressure on her for marriage. Unsatisfactory job, pestering mother, and societal stereotypes regarding age: how priya will handle all is crux of Twenty Nine Going On Thirty.
This book has everything that I wish to see in a plot: female friendship, love life struggles, lack of job satisfaction, single woman trying to make it in the world. EVERYTHING that could easily make me fall in love with a story! But for some reason it didn't hold my interest for long.
Perhaps because everything kept on happening in Priya's life so easily. Or it seemed so from the narration. Need a lover? Well here's a hot neighbour! Lack of friends? Intern hired of her own age! Struggling to pay bills? Rich roommate will take care of it!
I meannn HOW can she even make friends so easily considering her personality! It took me fucking 8 months to find people in office I like to hang out with. Also what office allows interns to be disrespectful to their bosses? Trust me, you will be thrown out immediately.
This book has everything that I wish to see in a plot: female friendship, love life struggles, lack of job satisfaction, single woman trying to make it in the world. EVERYTHING that could easily make me fall in love with a story! But for some reason it didn't hold my interest for long.
Perhaps because everything kept on happening in Priya's life so easily. Or it seemed so from the narration. Need a lover? Well here's a hot neighbour! Lack of friends? Intern hired of her own age! Struggling to pay bills? Rich roommate will take care of it!
I meannn HOW can she even make friends so easily considering her personality! It took me fucking 8 months to find people in office I like to hang out with. Also what office allows interns to be disrespectful to their bosses? Trust me, you will be thrown out immediately.
May 24, 2021
BOOK 15: Twenty-nine going on Thirty
By Andaleeb Wajid @
Just the perfect chick-lit book I needed to read especially when we are stuck between these four walls. It was sassy, fun, full of drama and a big page turner.
The story revolves around four girlfriends who are traversing to their 30s while juggling through their all sort of issues, challenged at job front, fucked up relatives, messed up love angles and to spice it all up office gossips. These four gfs sticks together inspite of differences and helped each other in battling their way to the happy ending. I guess we all deserve a girl gang like that, it helps you thrive and give you a perspective. After all no one gets you like your girlfriend does. True?
It soothes your heart on a weary day, makes you laugh and keeps your interest intact. I would highly recommend this if you are looking for something light and funny.
Thank you so much @astha for gifting this one on my 30th bday, the perfect read. I could relate to the characters on a personal level! ❤️
👯♀️ A big shout out to my girl gang for sticking with me through thick & thin..
🧚♀️Go ahead and tag your gfs..
By Andaleeb Wajid @
Just the perfect chick-lit book I needed to read especially when we are stuck between these four walls. It was sassy, fun, full of drama and a big page turner.
The story revolves around four girlfriends who are traversing to their 30s while juggling through their all sort of issues, challenged at job front, fucked up relatives, messed up love angles and to spice it all up office gossips. These four gfs sticks together inspite of differences and helped each other in battling their way to the happy ending. I guess we all deserve a girl gang like that, it helps you thrive and give you a perspective. After all no one gets you like your girlfriend does. True?
It soothes your heart on a weary day, makes you laugh and keeps your interest intact. I would highly recommend this if you are looking for something light and funny.
Thank you so much @astha for gifting this one on my 30th bday, the perfect read. I could relate to the characters on a personal level! ❤️
👯♀️ A big shout out to my girl gang for sticking with me through thick & thin..
🧚♀️Go ahead and tag your gfs..
March 14, 2022
This book is a fabulous read!
What are you looking for in a book? Drama? Love? Family issues? Dating life? Betrayal? Friendship?This story has it all.
If you love drama, you have to read this book. The story is fast paced and well written. Events unfold so smoothly that you would want to finish reading this book over night.
The book starts with Priya's life and how she is overwhelmed with the thought that she is turning 30 this year. She lives with her best friend Farida in Bangalore. Farida has a family past that she has to deal with every now and then thanks to her Aunt and Uncle.
Other characters in the book that add the charm and spark to the story..Priya's handsome neighbour Ajay and his daughter, Mini..her colleague, Namrata...the intern, Vinay.. Priya's colleague who Namrata has a crush on.
As the story progresses, each character plays a significant role in eachother's life.
As Priya, Namrata and Mini turn 30 this year, they happen to unfold a lot of drama in their life and realise how their life has changed for good now. 😁
Turning 30 wasn't that a horrifying experience afterall 😜
Someday I would love to see this story turn into a series or a movie!
What are you looking for in a book? Drama? Love? Family issues? Dating life? Betrayal? Friendship?This story has it all.
If you love drama, you have to read this book. The story is fast paced and well written. Events unfold so smoothly that you would want to finish reading this book over night.
The book starts with Priya's life and how she is overwhelmed with the thought that she is turning 30 this year. She lives with her best friend Farida in Bangalore. Farida has a family past that she has to deal with every now and then thanks to her Aunt and Uncle.
Other characters in the book that add the charm and spark to the story..Priya's handsome neighbour Ajay and his daughter, Mini..her colleague, Namrata...the intern, Vinay.. Priya's colleague who Namrata has a crush on.
As the story progresses, each character plays a significant role in eachother's life.
As Priya, Namrata and Mini turn 30 this year, they happen to unfold a lot of drama in their life and realise how their life has changed for good now. 😁
Turning 30 wasn't that a horrifying experience afterall 😜
Someday I would love to see this story turn into a series or a movie!
December 8, 2019
#bookreview "Twenty Nine Going on Thirty" by @andaleebwajid .
.
Who knew that turning Thirty would be so dramatic for Priya that she would have to go through a great deal of family drama, love, friendship and so on.. .
.
Synopsis: Priya is turning thirty and is completely having mixed feelings about it, she's got no idea about how would life be after that. She lives in bangalore with her friend Farida. Farida who's also going to turn thirty soon is fighting another battle in her ownself and is trying to find out the solutions. Life for Priya changes a little when one day she bumps into her handsome neighbour Ajay who's an apartment on the same floor as Priya. Ajay who is attracted by priya but has loads to do in life. Priya going through love drama finds her peace when she meets Mini and Namrata. .
.
Will Priya, Farida, Mini and Namrata be able to tackle the mess going on in their lives?? .
.
Will Priya and Ajay's life take a new turn??
.
.
To find out, you all have to go through the pages of thi Novel by @andaleebwajid ❤
.
Who knew that turning Thirty would be so dramatic for Priya that she would have to go through a great deal of family drama, love, friendship and so on.. .
.
Synopsis: Priya is turning thirty and is completely having mixed feelings about it, she's got no idea about how would life be after that. She lives in bangalore with her friend Farida. Farida who's also going to turn thirty soon is fighting another battle in her ownself and is trying to find out the solutions. Life for Priya changes a little when one day she bumps into her handsome neighbour Ajay who's an apartment on the same floor as Priya. Ajay who is attracted by priya but has loads to do in life. Priya going through love drama finds her peace when she meets Mini and Namrata. .
.
Will Priya, Farida, Mini and Namrata be able to tackle the mess going on in their lives?? .
.
Will Priya and Ajay's life take a new turn??
.
.
To find out, you all have to go through the pages of thi Novel by @andaleebwajid ❤
December 19, 2024
It's a decent light read. There's not much of spice in here except for a few mentions of kisses and make out sessions, so I'd say the book can be read by 14+ peeps.
The 4 friends (main characters), their daily lives, realizations and personality development and basically their growth of comfort into their own skin is something that makes it a good read. FYI, I finished the book in less than 24 hours,in 2-3 sittings. And this was my first time read.
I loved how Namrata grew into her confident self, how the individuals formed bonds that'd probably last a lifetime and the evolution of their acquaintance into friendships is worth binging the book.
The whole book is set in Priya's POV. Mini(the goth) as pictured by me, is a strong character with qualities I always want to develop myself (as I'm always busy casting myself as the FMC irl).
I'm not a big fan of Farida by the end, but I love her as the friend she's portrayed to Priya and others.
The 4 friends (main characters), their daily lives, realizations and personality development and basically their growth of comfort into their own skin is something that makes it a good read. FYI, I finished the book in less than 24 hours,in 2-3 sittings. And this was my first time read.
I loved how Namrata grew into her confident self, how the individuals formed bonds that'd probably last a lifetime and the evolution of their acquaintance into friendships is worth binging the book.
The whole book is set in Priya's POV. Mini(the goth) as pictured by me, is a strong character with qualities I always want to develop myself (as I'm always busy casting myself as the FMC irl).
I'm not a big fan of Farida by the end, but I love her as the friend she's portrayed to Priya and others.
March 31, 2018
Actual Rating - 4.5 stars
This book was an absolute delight! It has been a long time since I have read something like this! it was emotional as well as funny! this book actually shows how both our teenage life and adult life is quite similar because we never let our true inner self-go.
This book beautifully shows how we try to cling on to our past but sometimes we have to let it go. Let it go so that we can enjoy the beautiful and exciting future ahead of us! In this book, we are introduced to four characters who are fighting their own demons and learning to accept
what had happened in their life. The best thing about this book is that it is a blend of both seriousnesses as well as fun!
30 is an important age, but it doesn't mean that if we don't get married by then we won't ever be! This book shows that and tells us to enjoy life as it comes!
It shows the importance of friendship, family, and love. Most importantly it shows us how we need to trust no one but ourselves when in a doubt! It actually shows the reality of life and that letting go of things and people who are not meant for us! Leaving the 20s and entering the 30s is tough because a lot will change. However, this book shows how to brave it all and to face all your odds and to come out as a winner!
Rating
4.5/5
This book was an absolute delight! It has been a long time since I have read something like this! it was emotional as well as funny! this book actually shows how both our teenage life and adult life is quite similar because we never let our true inner self-go.
This book beautifully shows how we try to cling on to our past but sometimes we have to let it go. Let it go so that we can enjoy the beautiful and exciting future ahead of us! In this book, we are introduced to four characters who are fighting their own demons and learning to accept
what had happened in their life. The best thing about this book is that it is a blend of both seriousnesses as well as fun!
30 is an important age, but it doesn't mean that if we don't get married by then we won't ever be! This book shows that and tells us to enjoy life as it comes!
It shows the importance of friendship, family, and love. Most importantly it shows us how we need to trust no one but ourselves when in a doubt! It actually shows the reality of life and that letting go of things and people who are not meant for us! Leaving the 20s and entering the 30s is tough because a lot will change. However, this book shows how to brave it all and to face all your odds and to come out as a winner!
Rating
4.5/5
January 27, 2019
Finished this one in a few hours because it was a breeze! I can't say it wasn't entertaining. But it definitely dipped into melodrama every now and then. It constantly felt like I was reading a 'Little Black Dress' book, and it was refreshing to read content like that based on characters with names and lives you can relate to. Did I have problems with some of the characters? Yes. But I didn't go into this book hoping to love everything, I just wanted a quick read and it delivered in that aspect. Can I be honest and say I picked this up because it was set in Bangalore? Though, frankly, it could have been set anywhere as there weren't too many references to the city - apart from a few localities or the infamous traffic. However, definitely a read that's nice for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
December 16, 2019
I read this book at a sweet pace, enjoying every minute of the book. I remember the time when I was turning thirty and my mother was pestering me to get married.
The characters are real, and their problems seem so genuine. Their office stories, their heartbreaks, their family problems and their gossips over tea/ coffee.
The book has small chapters and really moves fast, one moment, I thought, where is the book going and the next moment I was enjoying it so much that I could not keep it down. Though I felt a little lost at the end, a little more closure about the other girls would have made it a bit better.
The characters are real, and their problems seem so genuine. Their office stories, their heartbreaks, their family problems and their gossips over tea/ coffee.
The book has small chapters and really moves fast, one moment, I thought, where is the book going and the next moment I was enjoying it so much that I could not keep it down. Though I felt a little lost at the end, a little more closure about the other girls would have made it a bit better.
April 15, 2023
The typical mindset of ageing, the orthodox thinking of society, to be married, and to have two kids by the age of thirty.
I chose this book because I did turn thirty, single, unmarried, and happy.
This read has worked as an affirmation on my principles that events/incidents happen with due course of time, life will go, birthdays will come, ages will increase and all we can do is go with the flow.
The writer has written a perfectly well suited story representing the concept, "age is just a number,"
It was an amazing read. Thank you, Andaleeb Wajid, for making my belief firm on the concept that age is actually just numbers
I chose this book because I did turn thirty, single, unmarried, and happy.
This read has worked as an affirmation on my principles that events/incidents happen with due course of time, life will go, birthdays will come, ages will increase and all we can do is go with the flow.
The writer has written a perfectly well suited story representing the concept, "age is just a number,"
It was an amazing read. Thank you, Andaleeb Wajid, for making my belief firm on the concept that age is actually just numbers
June 30, 2018
http://www.diaryofabookgirl.in/2018/0...
This book is a treat. This is one of those sweet treats you give to yourself after a long day at work or college (or a long day anywhere). This book is funny and quirky and all those adjectives related to funny. Believe me or not I completed this book in 2 sittings. Not that it was gripping or thrilling, but reading this book has been a fun experience for me. This is one of those books that you will continue reading just because you are enjoying it thoroughly.
This book is a treat. This is one of those sweet treats you give to yourself after a long day at work or college (or a long day anywhere). This book is funny and quirky and all those adjectives related to funny. Believe me or not I completed this book in 2 sittings. Not that it was gripping or thrilling, but reading this book has been a fun experience for me. This is one of those books that you will continue reading just because you are enjoying it thoroughly.
November 4, 2018
I must say this book left me fully disappointed. The book follows the story of a 29-year-old confused heroine who finds love in the most unexpected (or cliché) way! With a stereotyped BFF, stereotyped office stories and stereotyped love angle, the book screams everything of a badly made Ekta Kapoor soap. The story itself is so predictable that you know what's going to happen (coz serial drama🙄)
I do not enjoy reading books which have such superficial characters in it. I won't recommend this one!
I do not enjoy reading books which have such superficial characters in it. I won't recommend this one!
March 5, 2018
Enthralling. Captivating. I devoured it in one sitting. Andaleeb makes us believe that you do not have to be of certain age to find love and happiness in your life. It can come to you anytime.
May 7, 2018
good one .but not as like crunch factor .that was just wow!
April 6, 2019
Loved it... Really entertaining 😘😘
June 11, 2019
It's a interesting one. Captivating, hooking and shows there is no age limit in love. It can happen at any time.
Shows different types of family situations with which our protagonists deals with.
Shows different types of family situations with which our protagonists deals with.
August 12, 2019
A light, ocassionally humourous read. Relatable for Desi girls 😁
June 15, 2024
An engaging read!
February 9, 2025
Like an episode of Four More Shots Please but make it Bangalore.
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