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Sreepuram Series #2
Without You
When Ananya, a bubbly twenty-year-old engineering student, reaches her Grandmother's house in Sreepuram on a month long vacation, romance is the last thing on her mind. However, she meets Dr. Arjun there and falls head over heels in love.
As it often happens, the path of true love never runs smooth. Circumstances force them apart even though they were madly in love. She becomes a victim of depression. When everything fails to return her to normalcy, help arrives from an unexpected source. Will she ever find happiness again? Will time allow her heart to heal and forget Arjun? What indeed is true love? What is that strange secret that locks all the circumstances together?
Travel with Ananya to the picturesque Sreepuram, face the chaos of Bengaluru, and relish the warmth of magical Dubai in this heartwarming tale of love, betrayal, friendship, and miracles.
As it often happens, the path of true love never runs smooth. Circumstances force them apart even though they were madly in love. She becomes a victim of depression. When everything fails to return her to normalcy, help arrives from an unexpected source. Will she ever find happiness again? Will time allow her heart to heal and forget Arjun? What indeed is true love? What is that strange secret that locks all the circumstances together?
Travel with Ananya to the picturesque Sreepuram, face the chaos of Bengaluru, and relish the warmth of magical Dubai in this heartwarming tale of love, betrayal, friendship, and miracles.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2015
65 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Preethi Venugopala
34 books155 followersPreethi Venugopala is a Civil Engineer by profession and an avid writer, blogger, artist by passion.
She always liked stories. When alone, she would create stories in her mind but never thought about penning them down until a break from her regular job as a Civil Engineer prompted her to take up blogging.
Flash fictions written for various prompts, and winning story writing competitions led to publications of short stories in various anthologies. Several of her short stories are published on Juggernaut books platform.
She debuted as a novelist with 'Without You', which became the #1 bestseller in its category on Amazon.1 many times since its release. She has added 9 more bestsellers to her kitty. Á Royal Affair', 'His Sunshine Girl', 'The Princess and the Superstar', 'Remember When', 'The Lost Princess', 'Falling for Cinderella', 'My Warmest Sorrow', "The Girl at the Wedding', and her latest 'Love and Longing in Firefly season'.
She currently lives in Bangalore with her husband and son. When not penning down the stories of the voices in her head, she can be found curled up on a couch with her favourite book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 8, 2015
'Without You' is a beautiful tale of love, separation and life thereafter, until love happens again. Preethi Venugopala is an amazing bunch of talent for a first time author and the way she's fleshed out the main protagonist of her book, Ananya, needs to be complimented. That Ananya will meet Arjun and fall in love with him seems rather predestined, their separation is however a choice that they make because of circumstances. The resulting chaos leaves Ananya shattered and as she grapples with the realities of a life without her lover, she takes one of the boldest decisions of her life...that of moving to Dubai. New country. New friends. New job. New challenges. Will her past catch up to her? Will she find love again in her life? What about Arjun...will he be able to move on? The book has many interesting twists and turns and you simply cannot put it down until you have finished it. The language is superb. All the characters in the book are relatable; my favourite was the grandmother in Sreepuram. Strongly recommended to all those who love a good Indian romance. Ravinder Singh, watch out!
August 15, 2015
Okay, So Goodreads has been asking me to rate and review my own book from the time since it has been added here.
It is my baby and hence it is my favourite book. Of course, I give it five stars. It is always amazing to complete writing a story, especially a lengthy one like a novel.
As the author of the book, I wish to talk about what made me write the book, about the inspiration behind the book.
It was a tragedy that sparked off this story in my mind. The Mangalore plane crash on May 22, 2010 caused much trauma to me as it was my usual route while I was working in Dubai. But along with the reports of the tragedy, there was also news about many miraculous escapes and unexplained happenings. So one day, I had a dream that was like a movie, featuring a young girl. In the dream, the plane crash was a major turning point.
‘Without You’ is a love story of an engineering student, who becomes a victim of depression after a failed vacation romance.
‘Without You’ explores the various manifestations of love, even the esoteric ones. It talks about how love sometimes transcends borders that are unknown to human perceptions. It also talks about loss, heartbreak and depression.
People often ask me, which character do I relate most to? I can relate to the narrator of the novel, Ananya. She is almost like me: sensitive, ambitious, impulsive and an artist.
Love is magical and so is friendship. I am sure you will remember your first love, your best friends and also would start looking for miracles after you read my book. I hope my book touches the right chord in your heart, making your life sing.
It is my baby and hence it is my favourite book. Of course, I give it five stars. It is always amazing to complete writing a story, especially a lengthy one like a novel.
As the author of the book, I wish to talk about what made me write the book, about the inspiration behind the book.
It was a tragedy that sparked off this story in my mind. The Mangalore plane crash on May 22, 2010 caused much trauma to me as it was my usual route while I was working in Dubai. But along with the reports of the tragedy, there was also news about many miraculous escapes and unexplained happenings. So one day, I had a dream that was like a movie, featuring a young girl. In the dream, the plane crash was a major turning point.
‘Without You’ is a love story of an engineering student, who becomes a victim of depression after a failed vacation romance.
‘Without You’ explores the various manifestations of love, even the esoteric ones. It talks about how love sometimes transcends borders that are unknown to human perceptions. It also talks about loss, heartbreak and depression.
People often ask me, which character do I relate most to? I can relate to the narrator of the novel, Ananya. She is almost like me: sensitive, ambitious, impulsive and an artist.
Love is magical and so is friendship. I am sure you will remember your first love, your best friends and also would start looking for miracles after you read my book. I hope my book touches the right chord in your heart, making your life sing.
June 19, 2015
Without You by Preethi Venugopala takes you on an exciting venture of Ananya's love story. During her vacation to Sreepuram on her grandmother, Ammamma's home she meet Arjun and falls in love with him. She holds a soft corner for Arjun and leave no opportunity to make him feel special. The story takes a sweet turn when Arjun expresses his love for Ananya, unexpectedly. We believe in testing everything- friends, relations and family. Here it is no exception. On an occasion when Arjun instead of shielding Ananya respond unassertive, it break Ananya's believe apart and every expectation she had from Arjun's side. She decides to end it then and there. She leaves for Bangalore, back to her paternal home with her broken heart and shattered dreams. The emotional trauma turns her life upside down but her best friends, Khushi and Poornima leave no stone un-turn to bring back the bubbly, perky and happy go Ananya. By the time she overcome the pain of betrayal but her love and memories with Arjun remain fresh as ever. Did Arjun ever loved her sincerely? Why he didn't stand in protection of Ananya when she needed him the most? Will he ever return in Ananya's life again or will remain just a sweet-bitter past? Will Ananya be able to forgive him if ever he confronts her?
Without You is a racy promising love tale. The author has brilliantly worked on each character with a well planned plot. Intriguing narration and beautiful description will make you hooked to the story till the end. The cover of the book looks decent with a girl's back side image, lost in thoughts. I find the book title very apt. Without You, depicts life of Arjun and Ananya without each other.
What I liked the most?
Without You assures of an enduring love in its purest form. I especially loved Colonel RS Nair's character as his revelation brings the wanted crux of the suspense. Ammamma, Ananya's grandmother is an open minded lady with a loving heart. Her sweetness and simplicity won my heart. The best part is, story-line doesn't get predictable at all.
Why should one read this book?
Without You runs on a realistic line, a part of which each of us come across at some point of time, those raw emotions. If you believe in true love then this book promise to make your believe stronger.
Stars...
To this romantic reading ride that will compel you to smile, laugh and cry with its characters, I give this book a five- star rating.
Without You is a racy promising love tale. The author has brilliantly worked on each character with a well planned plot. Intriguing narration and beautiful description will make you hooked to the story till the end. The cover of the book looks decent with a girl's back side image, lost in thoughts. I find the book title very apt. Without You, depicts life of Arjun and Ananya without each other.
What I liked the most?
Without You assures of an enduring love in its purest form. I especially loved Colonel RS Nair's character as his revelation brings the wanted crux of the suspense. Ammamma, Ananya's grandmother is an open minded lady with a loving heart. Her sweetness and simplicity won my heart. The best part is, story-line doesn't get predictable at all.
Why should one read this book?
Without You runs on a realistic line, a part of which each of us come across at some point of time, those raw emotions. If you believe in true love then this book promise to make your believe stronger.
Stars...
To this romantic reading ride that will compel you to smile, laugh and cry with its characters, I give this book a five- star rating.
September 15, 2015
Characters:
Meet Ananya, a bubbly twenty-year-old engineering student, who loves nature, painting and reading. 'Tomboy' - that is what people call her back home. She loves spending time with her dear ones and Ammamma is her favorite person. But there is a secret that no one knows yet - a crush that she has been harboring on a person she hasn't even met!
Meet Dr. Arjun, the scion of the 'Shine' group which has branches all over the globe. But Arjun is passionate about serving people and loves his profession. Twenty six year old, he has girls falling for him but Arjun has eyes only for one girl - Ananya, who stole his heart at the first glance.
Plot:
Sweet and unsuspecting Ananya reaches her grandmother's house in Sreepuram on a month long vacation, barely having the idea of what life has in store for her. When she meets Dr. Arjun, about whom she has heard a lot about from her cousin Vishal and grand mom and whom she has harbored a crush on, she cannot help but fall head over heels in love, again! Soon she finds out that Arjun harbors the same feelings towards her and her joy has no bounds. With everything going smoothly, she feels like she is on top of the world!
But life doesn't work that way! Soon things take an unexpected turn and Arjun and Ananya are separated. The bubbly girl is now at the verge of depression. She barely manages to keep up with the help of her friends - Khushi and Poornima. But then, the real help comes from an unexpected source. Will Ananya be able to get over Arjun? Or will life give her another chance? Does miracles really happen in real life? You have to read this amazing story to find out more.
Read the complete review here - http://stareyedreviewer.blogspot.com/2015/06/without-you-book-review.html
Meet Ananya, a bubbly twenty-year-old engineering student, who loves nature, painting and reading. 'Tomboy' - that is what people call her back home. She loves spending time with her dear ones and Ammamma is her favorite person. But there is a secret that no one knows yet - a crush that she has been harboring on a person she hasn't even met!
Meet Dr. Arjun, the scion of the 'Shine' group which has branches all over the globe. But Arjun is passionate about serving people and loves his profession. Twenty six year old, he has girls falling for him but Arjun has eyes only for one girl - Ananya, who stole his heart at the first glance.
Plot:
Sweet and unsuspecting Ananya reaches her grandmother's house in Sreepuram on a month long vacation, barely having the idea of what life has in store for her. When she meets Dr. Arjun, about whom she has heard a lot about from her cousin Vishal and grand mom and whom she has harbored a crush on, she cannot help but fall head over heels in love, again! Soon she finds out that Arjun harbors the same feelings towards her and her joy has no bounds. With everything going smoothly, she feels like she is on top of the world!
But life doesn't work that way! Soon things take an unexpected turn and Arjun and Ananya are separated. The bubbly girl is now at the verge of depression. She barely manages to keep up with the help of her friends - Khushi and Poornima. But then, the real help comes from an unexpected source. Will Ananya be able to get over Arjun? Or will life give her another chance? Does miracles really happen in real life? You have to read this amazing story to find out more.
Read the complete review here - http://stareyedreviewer.blogspot.com/2015/06/without-you-book-review.html
October 6, 2015
Without You is the debut novel of Preethi Venugopala and it is an uplifting tale of romance that will stir your heart and fire your passion.
It's obvious from the early pages of this book how passionate the author is about her subjects. The main characters, Anu and Arjun are fun to watch, as their relationship develops and goes through its various ups and downs.
The author's forewarding notes, as well as the quotes that open each chapter are endearing and make you think.
As befitting an Indian author, readers should be prepared for an indoctrination into Indian culture. This is to be welcomed, because the author writes with a style and panache that always engages the reader.
Some lines I liked:-
"If you had given this to Shakespeare, he would have written a thousand sonnets about it." (Anu discussing food).
"Both of us can't bear to live without the other. But we still managed to make our lives a living hell making asinine assumptions about each other." (Anu and Arjun, on the difficulty of relationships.)
Without You is a credible addition to the romance genre, fans of which will see inspiration from all kinds of authors, from William Shakespeare to Jane Austen. There's a hint of Judith McNaught in there too - no bad thing.
It's a lovely story that romance fans will hold dear to their hearts.
On Amazon this book gets five stars.
It's obvious from the early pages of this book how passionate the author is about her subjects. The main characters, Anu and Arjun are fun to watch, as their relationship develops and goes through its various ups and downs.
The author's forewarding notes, as well as the quotes that open each chapter are endearing and make you think.
As befitting an Indian author, readers should be prepared for an indoctrination into Indian culture. This is to be welcomed, because the author writes with a style and panache that always engages the reader.
Some lines I liked:-
"If you had given this to Shakespeare, he would have written a thousand sonnets about it." (Anu discussing food).
"Both of us can't bear to live without the other. But we still managed to make our lives a living hell making asinine assumptions about each other." (Anu and Arjun, on the difficulty of relationships.)
Without You is a credible addition to the romance genre, fans of which will see inspiration from all kinds of authors, from William Shakespeare to Jane Austen. There's a hint of Judith McNaught in there too - no bad thing.
It's a lovely story that romance fans will hold dear to their hearts.
On Amazon this book gets five stars.
September 13, 2015
Review @ A Bookworm's Musing
When a story captivates me from start to finish, even when I know how it might possibly turn out, I'd say that's a good sign, and the book is a good read. So Without You is definitely a good read.
The character of Ananya, and the detailing of this character especially is impressive, but other characters and relationships have been given their due as well. The descriptions of Sreepuram are also quite beautiful and easy to imagine.
I'm a fan of serendipity, but when it becomes too much, you know something is up, and that's what happens with the character of the Colonel, I think. And it makes it quite unbelievable for me. Though it helps in a way to tie things up. Speaking of which, the storyline felt hurried towards the end as well.
A good debut, which I rate 3.5-4 stars, and with the grasp of language Preethi has shown in the book, I'd say more books are definitely awaited.
When a story captivates me from start to finish, even when I know how it might possibly turn out, I'd say that's a good sign, and the book is a good read. So Without You is definitely a good read.
The character of Ananya, and the detailing of this character especially is impressive, but other characters and relationships have been given their due as well. The descriptions of Sreepuram are also quite beautiful and easy to imagine.
I'm a fan of serendipity, but when it becomes too much, you know something is up, and that's what happens with the character of the Colonel, I think. And it makes it quite unbelievable for me. Though it helps in a way to tie things up. Speaking of which, the storyline felt hurried towards the end as well.
A good debut, which I rate 3.5-4 stars, and with the grasp of language Preethi has shown in the book, I'd say more books are definitely awaited.
June 15, 2015
Check Full Review
This is one of the finest debut I have read so far from an Indian author. Preethi's narration is simply beautiful and like a fluid, flows uninterrupted by unnecessary elements. A simple teen romance tale unfolding in the picturesque beauty of Sreepuram and Dubai, Without You touches your heart gently and stimulates the right emotions at the right time.
This is one of the finest debut I have read so far from an Indian author. Preethi's narration is simply beautiful and like a fluid, flows uninterrupted by unnecessary elements. A simple teen romance tale unfolding in the picturesque beauty of Sreepuram and Dubai, Without You touches your heart gently and stimulates the right emotions at the right time.
July 30, 2017
This is a sweet story of a young girl's brush with love and heartbreak.
While it is not your typical "romance" as defined by the genre of books, it is a uniquely Indian version of a love story, complete with heart ache and family drama and even a bit of spiritual intervention.
Preethi does have a way of throwing in a few twists in the tale and keeping the reader engaged. Ananya as the young girl who is totally smitten by a boy who is way out of her league feels real. She is also not just a "girl who is hopelessly in love" but has ambitions of her own. And she keeps the story grounded. Enjoyed the story and looking forward to more stories from Preethi.
While it is not your typical "romance" as defined by the genre of books, it is a uniquely Indian version of a love story, complete with heart ache and family drama and even a bit of spiritual intervention.
Preethi does have a way of throwing in a few twists in the tale and keeping the reader engaged. Ananya as the young girl who is totally smitten by a boy who is way out of her league feels real. She is also not just a "girl who is hopelessly in love" but has ambitions of her own. And she keeps the story grounded. Enjoyed the story and looking forward to more stories from Preethi.
April 22, 2017
A story of a first love.
Ananya falls in love with Dr. Arjun who is a friend of her cousin Vishal while she is on a vacation to her Grandma's house in Sreepuram. Their love was like a perfect love story. They love each other madly and wants to spend their whole life together, but, circumstances force them apart. The separation led Ananya into depression. She learned to live without him then Arjun comes back into her life.
The story is good but little stretched. The protagonist portrayed extremely innocent and bubbly. The story has beautiful scenic Sreepuram. It is a good and simple read, a little predictable and a little surprising. A story of a girl and her first love. The best read for the patient readers, who don't like much challenges in the story.
Ananya falls in love with Dr. Arjun who is a friend of her cousin Vishal while she is on a vacation to her Grandma's house in Sreepuram. Their love was like a perfect love story. They love each other madly and wants to spend their whole life together, but, circumstances force them apart. The separation led Ananya into depression. She learned to live without him then Arjun comes back into her life.
The story is good but little stretched. The protagonist portrayed extremely innocent and bubbly. The story has beautiful scenic Sreepuram. It is a good and simple read, a little predictable and a little surprising. A story of a girl and her first love. The best read for the patient readers, who don't like much challenges in the story.
December 18, 2015
From the book cover: When Ananya, a bubbly twenty-year old engineering student, reaches her Grandmother's house in Sreepuram on a month long vacation, romance is the last thing on her mind. However, she meets Dr. Arjun there and falls head over heels in love.
As it often happens, the path of true love never runs smooth.. Circumstances force them apart even though they were madly in love. She becomes a victim of depression. When everything fails to return her to normalcy, help arrives from an unexpected source. Will she ever find happiness again? Will time allow her heart to heal and forget Arjun? What indeed is true love?
Travel with Ananya to the picturesque Sreepuram, face the chaos of Bengaluru, and relish the warmth of magical Dubai in this heartwarming tale of love, betrayal, friendship and miracles.
My thoughts: When I finally started reading the book, Preethi managed to surprise me. There were quite a few plot twists that I did not see coming. Coming to the story and characters, they are well etched, especially that of Ananya, her grandmother and friends. Coming to Arjun, another version of Mr. Darcy, though he is in love with Ananya, he has his own flaws, which makes him believable. Of course, I could relate to Ananya and love her a teeny bit more.
The description of the places, be it Sreepuram, Bengaluru or Dubai, the author has done full justice in bringing out a clear picture in the minds of readers who haven't been there. Living in Dubai myself, it was fun to see this place through Ananya's eyes. Turning points in the story like Ananya trying to commit suicide and later her coping mechanisms in dealing with her depression are expressed very well making it easy to relate to.
Ananya's traits are borrowed from the author herself, like her love for painting and reading and journaling. This is not just a romance novel, it is a story on relationships and I loved the various themes that Preethi has explored, be it the relationship of Ananya with her grandmother who plays an important role or the friends that Ananya makes in Dubai, they all have a vital place in the book.
I do not want to give too much of the story away, as it will take away the fun in reading it. But read this one, it is an excellent debut and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book from Preethi. The book is well edited and has impeccable language, as is to be expected if you are familiar with the author's blog and her writings, which in itself makes the overall read a pleasant one. A light read, I read the book in a little less than a day. Read it and fall in love!
As it often happens, the path of true love never runs smooth.. Circumstances force them apart even though they were madly in love. She becomes a victim of depression. When everything fails to return her to normalcy, help arrives from an unexpected source. Will she ever find happiness again? Will time allow her heart to heal and forget Arjun? What indeed is true love?
Travel with Ananya to the picturesque Sreepuram, face the chaos of Bengaluru, and relish the warmth of magical Dubai in this heartwarming tale of love, betrayal, friendship and miracles.
My thoughts: When I finally started reading the book, Preethi managed to surprise me. There were quite a few plot twists that I did not see coming. Coming to the story and characters, they are well etched, especially that of Ananya, her grandmother and friends. Coming to Arjun, another version of Mr. Darcy, though he is in love with Ananya, he has his own flaws, which makes him believable. Of course, I could relate to Ananya and love her a teeny bit more.
The description of the places, be it Sreepuram, Bengaluru or Dubai, the author has done full justice in bringing out a clear picture in the minds of readers who haven't been there. Living in Dubai myself, it was fun to see this place through Ananya's eyes. Turning points in the story like Ananya trying to commit suicide and later her coping mechanisms in dealing with her depression are expressed very well making it easy to relate to.
Ananya's traits are borrowed from the author herself, like her love for painting and reading and journaling. This is not just a romance novel, it is a story on relationships and I loved the various themes that Preethi has explored, be it the relationship of Ananya with her grandmother who plays an important role or the friends that Ananya makes in Dubai, they all have a vital place in the book.
I do not want to give too much of the story away, as it will take away the fun in reading it. But read this one, it is an excellent debut and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book from Preethi. The book is well edited and has impeccable language, as is to be expected if you are familiar with the author's blog and her writings, which in itself makes the overall read a pleasant one. A light read, I read the book in a little less than a day. Read it and fall in love!
June 16, 2015
It’s always a pleasure to read a book authored by a friend and a co-blogger and when the book turns out to be an interesting read then the delight increases by manifolds.
I have read the short stories penned by Preethi. Her Regency romance stories fascinate and make you pine for your own Mr. Darcy.
The story starts with a young twenty-something Ananya visiting her grandmother in Sreepuram. There she falls head over heels in love with the charismatic and handsome Arjun who works as a doctor even though he is the scion of the multi-million dollar company, “Shine Groups”. Preethi has narrated the charm of the small town, Sreepuram, very well and you wish to visit the place to view the scenic beauty depicted through her words.
The warmth and love shared between Ananya and her grandmother is also very beautifully narrated. Circumstances and misunderstandings cause a rift between Ananya and Arjun. Ananya’s grief and pain propels her into a dark depression and she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her love. Preethi has brought out the anguish of heartbreak of a young girl very well through her words.
The plot then follows Ananya’s life and how she overcomes her depression. Will Ananya and Arjun meet again? Will their love find the strength to conquer the hurdles in their path? No, I’m not going to answer the questions. You’ll have to read the book to find out :)
I was also fascinated by the chapter where Ananya’s friend explains to her the characteristics of a typical Cancerian male that help to decipher Arjun’s behavior. I could only nod my head in complete agreement while reading the book as I used to devour Linda Goodman’s book when I was in college. I love analyzing people’s personalities through their Sun signs.
The twist in the ending was quite unexpected and something to watch out for. Though I was a little skeptical, Preethi gave a rational explanation and I know quite a few friends who have had similar experiences.
As a debut author Preethi’s first book impresses and entertains its readers through its quirky and fun characters( I loved Tom and Lily’s characters) and the passionate romance between Ananya and Arjun. It is a treat for all romance readers. So pick up the book for reading without any delay.
I have read the short stories penned by Preethi. Her Regency romance stories fascinate and make you pine for your own Mr. Darcy.
The story starts with a young twenty-something Ananya visiting her grandmother in Sreepuram. There she falls head over heels in love with the charismatic and handsome Arjun who works as a doctor even though he is the scion of the multi-million dollar company, “Shine Groups”. Preethi has narrated the charm of the small town, Sreepuram, very well and you wish to visit the place to view the scenic beauty depicted through her words.
The warmth and love shared between Ananya and her grandmother is also very beautifully narrated. Circumstances and misunderstandings cause a rift between Ananya and Arjun. Ananya’s grief and pain propels her into a dark depression and she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her love. Preethi has brought out the anguish of heartbreak of a young girl very well through her words.
The plot then follows Ananya’s life and how she overcomes her depression. Will Ananya and Arjun meet again? Will their love find the strength to conquer the hurdles in their path? No, I’m not going to answer the questions. You’ll have to read the book to find out :)
I was also fascinated by the chapter where Ananya’s friend explains to her the characteristics of a typical Cancerian male that help to decipher Arjun’s behavior. I could only nod my head in complete agreement while reading the book as I used to devour Linda Goodman’s book when I was in college. I love analyzing people’s personalities through their Sun signs.
The twist in the ending was quite unexpected and something to watch out for. Though I was a little skeptical, Preethi gave a rational explanation and I know quite a few friends who have had similar experiences.
As a debut author Preethi’s first book impresses and entertains its readers through its quirky and fun characters( I loved Tom and Lily’s characters) and the passionate romance between Ananya and Arjun. It is a treat for all romance readers. So pick up the book for reading without any delay.
December 3, 2015
Without You is a beautiful love story which I fully enjoyed reading. The main protagonists in this book are Ananya, a final year engineering student and Arjun, a cardiologist. A heart doctor, imagine. Ananya has come down to visit her grandmother in Sreepuram during her vacation. There, she meets her cousin Vishal's friend, Dr. Arjun. She falls head over heels in love with him. Read the complete review at http://www.kaapitimes.com/2015/10/wit...
July 27, 2017
Without You is a beautiful and soulful tale of true love, separation, and union.
The love that can withstand a separation is the most powerful love in the world. I loved reading the story of Ananya and Arjun. The way they fell in love, the way they separated and united again touches the right chords.
I loved the character of Ananya more than the character of Arjun. Ananya felt extremely relatable. I also loved the character of Ammama. The scenes of Ammama and Ananya are beautifully written. It reminded me of my grandmother. I only did not like the supernatural element that was present in the book. Apart from it, "Without you" was a beautiful read. The best thing about the book is its narration. Preethi's words are so beautiful that it draws you in and makes you invest in the characters. I also loved the way Ananya kept her love alive for Arjun by writing letters to him in her journal for more than a year.
The love that can withstand a separation is the most powerful love in the world. I loved reading the story of Ananya and Arjun. The way they fell in love, the way they separated and united again touches the right chords.
I loved the character of Ananya more than the character of Arjun. Ananya felt extremely relatable. I also loved the character of Ammama. The scenes of Ammama and Ananya are beautifully written. It reminded me of my grandmother. I only did not like the supernatural element that was present in the book. Apart from it, "Without you" was a beautiful read. The best thing about the book is its narration. Preethi's words are so beautiful that it draws you in and makes you invest in the characters. I also loved the way Ananya kept her love alive for Arjun by writing letters to him in her journal for more than a year.
October 20, 2015
REVIEW:
Without you – expect some unexpected twists – especially at the end!
First Impression:
The cover design looks like a watercolour of a woman in a flowing gown. While I know the author is multi talented, I am wondering if somehow, she influenced this design. A nice muted image that conveys more than it seems to, on first sight. A healthy sized book awaited me. The summary was crisp and to the point and what impressed me was the list of characters given upfront!
Now the story:
Romances are often categorised as one time reads, with little in them to take back after the story has been finished. But sometimes, some books capture your imagination in a different way. You are not entirely sure you will be able to forget the story, but when asked to point out one favourite character, you will stall a moment because there is something you like about every character!
Without You is one such narrative. The story is simple enough to hold your attention, yet narrated in a descriptive manner that you could visualise it and find yourself wandering away from the story and into the scenery at times.
Ananya Shankar is a fun loving, unassuming twenty year old who goes to her maternal grandmother’s house for a summer vacation. The readers’ senses are treated her with a very descriptive account of the village and its climate and people. There she falls for Arjun, a charming neighbour and a doctor. Surprisingly, her grandmother even accepts the match, and Ananya is on cloud nine. Everything about Arjun is perfect. His looks, character, behaviour and attitude leave little to be desired.
But fate has other ideas. It plays a cruel game and separates them both. Ananya is devastated, depressed, and considers suicide. While this might seem like a signature movie move, it also adds depth to the naïve character that Ananya is portrayed to be. Things look bleak and with her mind and heart warring, Ananya can neither forget Arjun nor move on in life.
She tries so hard to be her normal self and manages to go through the remaining semesters in her college and lands up in a good job based on her meritorious education. Once again, fate has its say in her life and Ananya comes face to face with the best and worst happenings in her life. What happens after that forms the story.
‘Without You’, while not as ominous as the title is making it sound, is also filled with some surprise elements while nearing the end of the book. The story about the main characters is somewhat predictable. You know, deep down, that somehow, everything is going to be alright. And you could also have an idea of what the author has been meaning to do with the characters.
But a few cleverly written twists at the end of the book make the story somewhat unique from others in this genre. The first half is a descriptive slow read about the bliss of falling in love and the misery of falling out of it. The second half, however, is the one you should watch out for, with the twists coming so subtly that you might miss them.
The book adheres to the summary and the characters are natural and well defined, bringing with them the nativity of the region they belong to. The author has a knack for describing places and it is only natural that her prowess in her art, and also civil engineering comes out in the book! After all, which book doesn’t contain a part of its author?
Overall, a good read that you could associate with if you are a romance lover!
WHAT I LIKED:
· The character of grandmother (Ammamma)
· That part of the story set in Dubai, the initial days.
· The special twist with that one character in the end – the most unpredictable element in the book.
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER:
The language seems a little archaic with some phrases seemingly of a different word order than is normally used. This is sometimes confusing.
VERDICT: A pleasant story of love and its many trials and tribulations.
RATING: 4/5
Without you – expect some unexpected twists – especially at the end!
First Impression:
The cover design looks like a watercolour of a woman in a flowing gown. While I know the author is multi talented, I am wondering if somehow, she influenced this design. A nice muted image that conveys more than it seems to, on first sight. A healthy sized book awaited me. The summary was crisp and to the point and what impressed me was the list of characters given upfront!
Now the story:
Romances are often categorised as one time reads, with little in them to take back after the story has been finished. But sometimes, some books capture your imagination in a different way. You are not entirely sure you will be able to forget the story, but when asked to point out one favourite character, you will stall a moment because there is something you like about every character!
Without You is one such narrative. The story is simple enough to hold your attention, yet narrated in a descriptive manner that you could visualise it and find yourself wandering away from the story and into the scenery at times.
Ananya Shankar is a fun loving, unassuming twenty year old who goes to her maternal grandmother’s house for a summer vacation. The readers’ senses are treated her with a very descriptive account of the village and its climate and people. There she falls for Arjun, a charming neighbour and a doctor. Surprisingly, her grandmother even accepts the match, and Ananya is on cloud nine. Everything about Arjun is perfect. His looks, character, behaviour and attitude leave little to be desired.
But fate has other ideas. It plays a cruel game and separates them both. Ananya is devastated, depressed, and considers suicide. While this might seem like a signature movie move, it also adds depth to the naïve character that Ananya is portrayed to be. Things look bleak and with her mind and heart warring, Ananya can neither forget Arjun nor move on in life.
She tries so hard to be her normal self and manages to go through the remaining semesters in her college and lands up in a good job based on her meritorious education. Once again, fate has its say in her life and Ananya comes face to face with the best and worst happenings in her life. What happens after that forms the story.
‘Without You’, while not as ominous as the title is making it sound, is also filled with some surprise elements while nearing the end of the book. The story about the main characters is somewhat predictable. You know, deep down, that somehow, everything is going to be alright. And you could also have an idea of what the author has been meaning to do with the characters.
But a few cleverly written twists at the end of the book make the story somewhat unique from others in this genre. The first half is a descriptive slow read about the bliss of falling in love and the misery of falling out of it. The second half, however, is the one you should watch out for, with the twists coming so subtly that you might miss them.
The book adheres to the summary and the characters are natural and well defined, bringing with them the nativity of the region they belong to. The author has a knack for describing places and it is only natural that her prowess in her art, and also civil engineering comes out in the book! After all, which book doesn’t contain a part of its author?
Overall, a good read that you could associate with if you are a romance lover!
WHAT I LIKED:
· The character of grandmother (Ammamma)
· That part of the story set in Dubai, the initial days.
· The special twist with that one character in the end – the most unpredictable element in the book.
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER:
The language seems a little archaic with some phrases seemingly of a different word order than is normally used. This is sometimes confusing.
VERDICT: A pleasant story of love and its many trials and tribulations.
RATING: 4/5
June 30, 2015
Nostalgia fills my heart when I read about a young girl, Ananya, who goes home to her Ammamma's (grandmother) house at the scenic village of Sreepuram, "a traveller's dream", for a much needed break after her sixth semester examinations in engineering. Ammamma is Arundhati Mukundan, a award-winning poet, who had started her writing after the death of her husband. It is here that Ananya comes across Dr. Arjun, who appeared to her like "a Greek god". He is her cousin, Vishal's, best friend as well. His sudden appearance into her life makes the idyllic Sreepuram even more interesting than it already is, and Ananya's vulnerable heart opens up like a flower in anticipation. Rare for Ananya who had always been a tomboy, "a sprightly and mean thing" according to her cousins.
Both Vishal and Arjun are senior resident doctors in the medical college hospital.
Ananya loves being in Sreepuram, and when she is not enjoying the company of her young friends there, she loses herself in the beauty of the village."Sunlight filtering in through the few rain clouds that still littered the horizon gave shining silver borders to them... Perhaps an angel was about to emerge from it, to prepare the earth." On one of her outings, she runs into Col. R.S. Nair who holds a helping hand out to her whenever she falters.
Ananya and Arjun feel love blossoming in their hearts, and the artist in her strives to capture his image in her paintings. Her wily grandma is ecstatic with her choice and advises her never to "marry someone whom you can't love and respect."
However, there comes a juncture when her life falls apart and she goes back to Bangalore, taking refuge in the love of her family, and the vibrant company of her close friends, Poornima and Khushi. The next phase of life begins when she lands a job as a civil engineer at the prestigious company at Dubai - Al Bayed LLC. She enjoys her new job and the ambience of Dubai, where she meets colleagues, Lily and Tom, who, very quickly, turn into close friends.
Preethi Venugopala is a gifted writer who writes with her heart, be it about the plight of our country "How could I make them understand... that most of the girls in my family ended up in arranged marriages and astrologers played matchmakers?" or psychology - "It is often to strangers that we find it easy to confess our innermost secrets, because there is no fear of disdain." What are the circumstances that disillusion Ananya? Do she and Arjun find true love? What is that strange secret that locks all the circumstances together? You will have to read this page turner to find answers to unlock these keys.
Preethi's descriptions are ethereal, and her passion for Kerala comes across strongly. There is a lucidity about her writing that keeps the reader hooked from the start. References to Mr. Darcy, classic quotes from literature at the start of every chapter, and Preethi's own quotes on love, betrayal and friendship, make this a book that sings of the essence of 'Falling in Love with You'.
Verdict: As fresh as a tall iced glass of lime juice on a sun-drenched day!
Both Vishal and Arjun are senior resident doctors in the medical college hospital.
Ananya loves being in Sreepuram, and when she is not enjoying the company of her young friends there, she loses herself in the beauty of the village."Sunlight filtering in through the few rain clouds that still littered the horizon gave shining silver borders to them... Perhaps an angel was about to emerge from it, to prepare the earth." On one of her outings, she runs into Col. R.S. Nair who holds a helping hand out to her whenever she falters.
Ananya and Arjun feel love blossoming in their hearts, and the artist in her strives to capture his image in her paintings. Her wily grandma is ecstatic with her choice and advises her never to "marry someone whom you can't love and respect."
However, there comes a juncture when her life falls apart and she goes back to Bangalore, taking refuge in the love of her family, and the vibrant company of her close friends, Poornima and Khushi. The next phase of life begins when she lands a job as a civil engineer at the prestigious company at Dubai - Al Bayed LLC. She enjoys her new job and the ambience of Dubai, where she meets colleagues, Lily and Tom, who, very quickly, turn into close friends.
Preethi Venugopala is a gifted writer who writes with her heart, be it about the plight of our country "How could I make them understand... that most of the girls in my family ended up in arranged marriages and astrologers played matchmakers?" or psychology - "It is often to strangers that we find it easy to confess our innermost secrets, because there is no fear of disdain." What are the circumstances that disillusion Ananya? Do she and Arjun find true love? What is that strange secret that locks all the circumstances together? You will have to read this page turner to find answers to unlock these keys.
Preethi's descriptions are ethereal, and her passion for Kerala comes across strongly. There is a lucidity about her writing that keeps the reader hooked from the start. References to Mr. Darcy, classic quotes from literature at the start of every chapter, and Preethi's own quotes on love, betrayal and friendship, make this a book that sings of the essence of 'Falling in Love with You'.
Verdict: As fresh as a tall iced glass of lime juice on a sun-drenched day!
August 15, 2015
Read full review on: https://vishalbheeroo.wordpress.com/2...
An excerpt:
Introduction:
‘Why was it that we wished for things we couldn’t get?
Why did things that could never be ours, lure us, and then vanish mere hairbreadths away from our reach?
Why was letting go so hard?”
Preethi Venugopla’s ‘Without You’ is simple love story set in Sreepuram where Ananya falls in love with Arjun. As fate would have it, the lovers find each other in Dubai and love is rekindled where they discover each other in this enchanting journey of love, life’s philosophy and destiny. It’s an endearing love story where Preethi has built suspense, surprise, yeah, a very interesting twist in the tale that one finds in movies. Love can never fail us when our destiny is chartered by an invisible power. Evil is present but strong love always wins.
The novel starts in a lyrical fashion, flawless description of the life of Ananya coupled with endearing characters such as Ammama that grabs one’s attention from start to finish. It’s engrossing, lovely with twists and friendships Ananya carves in her life. At one glance, ‘Without You’ is about love but not without its share of troubles. A refreshing, captivating and alluring story that has all the ingredients of success.
An excerpt:
Introduction:
‘Why was it that we wished for things we couldn’t get?
Why did things that could never be ours, lure us, and then vanish mere hairbreadths away from our reach?
Why was letting go so hard?”
Preethi Venugopla’s ‘Without You’ is simple love story set in Sreepuram where Ananya falls in love with Arjun. As fate would have it, the lovers find each other in Dubai and love is rekindled where they discover each other in this enchanting journey of love, life’s philosophy and destiny. It’s an endearing love story where Preethi has built suspense, surprise, yeah, a very interesting twist in the tale that one finds in movies. Love can never fail us when our destiny is chartered by an invisible power. Evil is present but strong love always wins.
The novel starts in a lyrical fashion, flawless description of the life of Ananya coupled with endearing characters such as Ammama that grabs one’s attention from start to finish. It’s engrossing, lovely with twists and friendships Ananya carves in her life. At one glance, ‘Without You’ is about love but not without its share of troubles. A refreshing, captivating and alluring story that has all the ingredients of success.
October 7, 2015
Suprisingly good yeah!
I have never read a book on indian culture, but this was recommended to me and even though i was not sure if I would like it, i started to read the book and the pages and the time just went flying by.
As a romance, and I haven't read that many, it goes to an obvious ending i think - but I really like the characters. Best thing about the book was the setting. The author really describes everything so well.
Excellent book and recommended to all who love a romance with a spiritual side to it!!!!
I have never read a book on indian culture, but this was recommended to me and even though i was not sure if I would like it, i started to read the book and the pages and the time just went flying by.
As a romance, and I haven't read that many, it goes to an obvious ending i think - but I really like the characters. Best thing about the book was the setting. The author really describes everything so well.
Excellent book and recommended to all who love a romance with a spiritual side to it!!!!
October 17, 2015
I like books and romance is my favorite genre. So when I got this book, I was happy as the lovely cover and the blurb lured me to read it. I read the book in less than a day, which is a record for me as I take time to linger over the nuances of the story. This book is written beautifully and the characters remain memorable even after one finish reading it. Ananya’s granny is my favorite in the book after Ananya and Arjun. The quote at the beginning of each chapter adds beauty to the story as well.
I recommend it to all who loves a good romance.
Don't miss.. Go for it... Must Read! :)
I recommend it to all who loves a good romance.
Don't miss.. Go for it... Must Read! :)
October 7, 2015
The innocence of true love is maintained throughout and though Ananya’s insane scribblings to an invisible Arjun seem like a besotted fools paradise, you can feel for her. Thos book has tried to relate to several young hearts out there...(More on my blog)
https://webookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
https://webookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
January 19, 2016
A beautiful love story. I loved the way story was written and the characters of Ananya and Arjun were made alive by Author. Though I am little unsatisfied with the ending of the story, still this book is a good read. Would recommend this to those who read love story and believe in 'in the last love wins'
August 20, 2016
I loved the book. The language used, the details provided brings the whole scene alive as if watching a movie ......just great. Loved Arjun's character. he made me fall in love with my husband again as my husband is just like him....
July 27, 2016
The books is a as beautiful as its cover page. I loved the character of Ananya and thoroughly loved the book. Ananya is a strong woman and this book shows how strong a woman can stand. I loved it.
December 3, 2015
Very nice and clean
August 4, 2020
The cover is beautiful and so is the story. The book has been written in first person from Anaya’s point of view. The characters are well developed, realistic and their feelings have been described beautifully. I wanted Ananya to meet Arjun in Bangalore itself.
The descriptions of the places, both Sreepuram and Dubai are detailed. I could visualize beautiful Kerala right before me.
The story has all the ingredients: love, separation, friendship, supportive family and depression.
Each chapter has a quote at the beginning, there is one from Winnie the Pooh, too.
I am going to read the next book in the series next.
The descriptions of the places, both Sreepuram and Dubai are detailed. I could visualize beautiful Kerala right before me.
The story has all the ingredients: love, separation, friendship, supportive family and depression.
Each chapter has a quote at the beginning, there is one from Winnie the Pooh, too.
I am going to read the next book in the series next.
September 13, 2020
A wonderful book
Loved the book, characters were beautifully portrayed l,also the message that what happens happens for the best, was something which enlightened me, thanks for making us believe that we should always trust our instincts and destiny do change!! Good Luck 😊
Loved the book, characters were beautifully portrayed l,also the message that what happens happens for the best, was something which enlightened me, thanks for making us believe that we should always trust our instincts and destiny do change!! Good Luck 😊
June 9, 2016
It always is a delight to read a book from an author whom you know personally. And if the author is a fellow blogger, then the joy doubles. Preethi Venugopala is a blogger friend whom I met during a blogger meet. I hadn't read her blog until then. But after I visited her blog, there has been no looking book. A grammar nazi, her words are always perfect and never out of place. Her fiction gives me a complex and I know that she is a better story teller than almost everyone out there. Her A to Z - 2015 posts were something to watch out for and her stories have a grip on the mind of the reader. Well, atleast mine. When I heard that she was coming out with a full fledged novel, I was excited. First, because I was happy to see a fellow blogger turn author. Next, because I knew that the book would be good.
Without You is a simple and warm love story between Ananya and Arjun. On a vacation to her grand mother's house, Ananya meets Dr. Arjun and is besotted by him. And this happens in the third page of the book. Yes, the book is fast paced and I finished it in well under three hours. Arjun falls in love with her too and soon they have the grand mother's blessings as well. When everything seems rosy, enters Arjun's mother to ruin the scene. Arjun happens to be the scion of a famous group of companies called 'Shine Group' and his mother is not too pleased with his choice of a life partner. A misunderstanding follows and soon Ananya is left heartbroken and depressed.
She returns to Bangalore and tries to move on with her life but Arjun and his thoughts continue to plague her. Chance meetings with a certain Colonel Nair, who always tells her that Arjun is a good lad doesn't help her either as she starts pouring out her woes in a journal addressing it to who else but Arjun. Ananya tries her best to move on with the help of her friends Khushi and Poornima. Soon Ananya completes her education and is offered a job in Dubai. To start a fresh life, she moves to Dubai and is helped around by her cousin Kishore and his family. She makes new friends Tom and Lily and is enjoying her new life, when Arjun makes his presence felt in Dubai. What happens next? Will Ananya forgive Arjun or will his mother come back to create a scene again? And who exactly is this Colonel Nair who is helping Ananya silently? All these elements blend together to form the rest of the story.
This book is a breezy read and perfect for a romance lover like me. The story is simple and since I know the talents of the author very well, I could see glimpses of the author herself in Ananya. People who follow Preethi on Facebook will know her varied interests in painting and sketching. Ananya borrows this trait from her. The language used is crisp and the author paints a wonderful picture of the locations. Ananya clearly is the main protagonist as every page and every twist is all about her and she is present in every scene. But what troubled me was that, why would a girl so young and bright try to end her life over someone whom she had just met? I know that she was head over heels in love and this was her first love, but somehow I was not convinced about this angle.
Arjun, the hero is called a spineless fellow more than once in the book and that is exactly what he is. As a character going through inner turmoil due to the death of his father, his actions were something that I could not relate to. Him following every detail of Ananya's life and having pictures of her in various angles and even moving to Dubai felt stalkerish, although Ananya refuses to see it that way. Why didn't he come and talk to Ananya initially and save her from the misery she was putting herself through? The mention of Poornima's cousin, had me immediately guess the plot. It could have been implemented some other way. Maybe in the form of Ananya's grand mother. I was disappointed to not read more of her in the book, after having read so much about her in the earlier chapters.
Since it is Preethi's book, I was not surprised to find impeccable grammar. But the words "I would have made you mine" hinting at sex and "giving and receiving love" again hinting at the same felt out of place as did the sex scene. The story would have continued without it and still would have ended the way it did. If there is one major flaw in this book, then it is the character of Colonel R.S Nair. When he reminded Ananya of someone, I guessed who it could be. But I was only partially right. The other part left me dumbfounded and not in a good way. This portion was totally unbelievable and unnecessary. Although the author has explained it, it did not make sense to me. I also would have loved to read more about Ananya's relationship with her parents. This part was hardly explored. And so was the pain and trauma of Arjun's mother. I did not get to see her side of the story at all. She lost her husband too, didn't she?
Verdict: The story has heart and the flow is fast and crisp. The language used is brilliant and the descriptions are near perfect. Apart from the few flaws mentioned above, the book makes a decent read. A very good first attempt by the author.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5.
Without You is a simple and warm love story between Ananya and Arjun. On a vacation to her grand mother's house, Ananya meets Dr. Arjun and is besotted by him. And this happens in the third page of the book. Yes, the book is fast paced and I finished it in well under three hours. Arjun falls in love with her too and soon they have the grand mother's blessings as well. When everything seems rosy, enters Arjun's mother to ruin the scene. Arjun happens to be the scion of a famous group of companies called 'Shine Group' and his mother is not too pleased with his choice of a life partner. A misunderstanding follows and soon Ananya is left heartbroken and depressed.
She returns to Bangalore and tries to move on with her life but Arjun and his thoughts continue to plague her. Chance meetings with a certain Colonel Nair, who always tells her that Arjun is a good lad doesn't help her either as she starts pouring out her woes in a journal addressing it to who else but Arjun. Ananya tries her best to move on with the help of her friends Khushi and Poornima. Soon Ananya completes her education and is offered a job in Dubai. To start a fresh life, she moves to Dubai and is helped around by her cousin Kishore and his family. She makes new friends Tom and Lily and is enjoying her new life, when Arjun makes his presence felt in Dubai. What happens next? Will Ananya forgive Arjun or will his mother come back to create a scene again? And who exactly is this Colonel Nair who is helping Ananya silently? All these elements blend together to form the rest of the story.
This book is a breezy read and perfect for a romance lover like me. The story is simple and since I know the talents of the author very well, I could see glimpses of the author herself in Ananya. People who follow Preethi on Facebook will know her varied interests in painting and sketching. Ananya borrows this trait from her. The language used is crisp and the author paints a wonderful picture of the locations. Ananya clearly is the main protagonist as every page and every twist is all about her and she is present in every scene. But what troubled me was that, why would a girl so young and bright try to end her life over someone whom she had just met? I know that she was head over heels in love and this was her first love, but somehow I was not convinced about this angle.
Arjun, the hero is called a spineless fellow more than once in the book and that is exactly what he is. As a character going through inner turmoil due to the death of his father, his actions were something that I could not relate to. Him following every detail of Ananya's life and having pictures of her in various angles and even moving to Dubai felt stalkerish, although Ananya refuses to see it that way. Why didn't he come and talk to Ananya initially and save her from the misery she was putting herself through? The mention of Poornima's cousin, had me immediately guess the plot. It could have been implemented some other way. Maybe in the form of Ananya's grand mother. I was disappointed to not read more of her in the book, after having read so much about her in the earlier chapters.
Since it is Preethi's book, I was not surprised to find impeccable grammar. But the words "I would have made you mine" hinting at sex and "giving and receiving love" again hinting at the same felt out of place as did the sex scene. The story would have continued without it and still would have ended the way it did. If there is one major flaw in this book, then it is the character of Colonel R.S Nair. When he reminded Ananya of someone, I guessed who it could be. But I was only partially right. The other part left me dumbfounded and not in a good way. This portion was totally unbelievable and unnecessary. Although the author has explained it, it did not make sense to me. I also would have loved to read more about Ananya's relationship with her parents. This part was hardly explored. And so was the pain and trauma of Arjun's mother. I did not get to see her side of the story at all. She lost her husband too, didn't she?
Verdict: The story has heart and the flow is fast and crisp. The language used is brilliant and the descriptions are near perfect. Apart from the few flaws mentioned above, the book makes a decent read. A very good first attempt by the author.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2020
Ananya and Arjun are stuff that dreams are made of. Lovely chemistry and fantastic writing make this a perfect romantic read.
June 16, 2020
'Without you' is a teenage romance story penned beautifully. This book is a debut attempt and you won't really feel so, while reading the seamless narration and eloquent language. There is a lucidity about her writing that keeps the reader hooked right from the start.
If you pick this book on a lazy Saturday/Sunday afternoon, you will easily finish it off in a single go. The narration allows you to connect easily with the characters and new events keep you engaged throughout.
Although the plot of 'Without You' is not something out of the box but Preethi pulls it off really well. The plus points of the book are - the vivid descriptions of the picturesque places Ananya visits and the beautiful message that the book conveys.
Whirlwind romance, expectations, separation, depression, longing, betrayal, etc. makes you feel the story through Ananya's eyes. Another treat is how every chapter began with a quote to set the mood for what we were about to read.
‘Without You’ is about love and its share of troubles. A refreshing, captivating and alluring story which soon promises to become a best seller!
Over all, a perfect pick this monsoon if you are a lover of romance. You will not be disappointed! I would definitely suggest it to all the romance readers.
Full review here: https://intheclassroomoflife.blogspot...
If you pick this book on a lazy Saturday/Sunday afternoon, you will easily finish it off in a single go. The narration allows you to connect easily with the characters and new events keep you engaged throughout.
Although the plot of 'Without You' is not something out of the box but Preethi pulls it off really well. The plus points of the book are - the vivid descriptions of the picturesque places Ananya visits and the beautiful message that the book conveys.
Whirlwind romance, expectations, separation, depression, longing, betrayal, etc. makes you feel the story through Ananya's eyes. Another treat is how every chapter began with a quote to set the mood for what we were about to read.
‘Without You’ is about love and its share of troubles. A refreshing, captivating and alluring story which soon promises to become a best seller!
Over all, a perfect pick this monsoon if you are a lover of romance. You will not be disappointed! I would definitely suggest it to all the romance readers.
Full review here: https://intheclassroomoflife.blogspot...
May 20, 2017
Rating Edit: 2.5 Stars
Originally Published on www.shanayatales.com
Without You follows the life of a young girl - Ananya, as she finds love, then loses it, and then tries to find herself, while picking up the broken pieces of her heart.
The story starts with 20 year-old Ananya visiting her grandmother in Sreepuram. There, she falls head-over-heels in love with the very handsome Dr. Arjun, who works in a hospital, in-spite of the fact that he is the scion of the multi-million dollar Shine Group. Arjun, too, falls in love with Ananya, and soon they even have the grandmother’s blessing.
However, some unfavourable circumstances, lead to Ananya and Arjun going their separate ways, and Ananya’s grief over the loss of her love, propels her into a dark depression. The plot then follows Ananya’s life, as she tries to come to terms with her loss, and move on.
Will she be ever be able to completely forget Arjun? Will Ananya and Arjun cross paths again? If they do - would they still be in love with each other? More importantly - will their love find the strength to conquer the hurdles in their path, this time around? - these are the questions that get answered in the rest of the book.
My Thoughts:
I had distinct experiences while reading different sections; so I am going to review the book in those sections/chunks.
The beginning ( First 25% of the book)
As I started reading, the first thing that caught my attention, was the vivid description of the picturesque Sreepuram. Describing places is clearly the author’s strong suit, and she has demonstrated that several times in this book - from Sreepuram to Bangalore to Dubai.
My biggest grouse with this section is something which is also my biggest pet peeve while reading romances - Insta Love! (or instant love)
If the book is in the genre of romance - I need to see the characters falling in love, and see the relationship progress. The love story is central to a romance novel, so I don’t like short cuts here.
Which is why, insta-love (an often used short cut) puts me off, and this book had a clear case of the same - Ananya was in love with Arjun, before she even met him. For Arjun too - it was love at first-sight!
Now, I have read enough romances to understand that, yes, there are times when a story/book starts with one person harboring a secret (or not so secret) crush on the other person. But even in those situations - the progression of the love story is shown, which makes it okay (Case in point - Against All Rules by Summerita Rhyane). But in Without You - there was no development or progression shown.
Also, several things (plot/dialogue etc) in this section came across as immature, and juvenile (to me). There was too much repetition, and no subtlety. And this would have been understandable, and completely acceptable, if the characters were 16 or 18, but Ananya was 20 and Arjun was 26. ReadMore
Originally Published on www.shanayatales.com
Without You follows the life of a young girl - Ananya, as she finds love, then loses it, and then tries to find herself, while picking up the broken pieces of her heart.
The story starts with 20 year-old Ananya visiting her grandmother in Sreepuram. There, she falls head-over-heels in love with the very handsome Dr. Arjun, who works in a hospital, in-spite of the fact that he is the scion of the multi-million dollar Shine Group. Arjun, too, falls in love with Ananya, and soon they even have the grandmother’s blessing.
However, some unfavourable circumstances, lead to Ananya and Arjun going their separate ways, and Ananya’s grief over the loss of her love, propels her into a dark depression. The plot then follows Ananya’s life, as she tries to come to terms with her loss, and move on.
Will she be ever be able to completely forget Arjun? Will Ananya and Arjun cross paths again? If they do - would they still be in love with each other? More importantly - will their love find the strength to conquer the hurdles in their path, this time around? - these are the questions that get answered in the rest of the book.
My Thoughts:
I had distinct experiences while reading different sections; so I am going to review the book in those sections/chunks.
The beginning ( First 25% of the book)
As I started reading, the first thing that caught my attention, was the vivid description of the picturesque Sreepuram. Describing places is clearly the author’s strong suit, and she has demonstrated that several times in this book - from Sreepuram to Bangalore to Dubai.
My biggest grouse with this section is something which is also my biggest pet peeve while reading romances - Insta Love! (or instant love)
If the book is in the genre of romance - I need to see the characters falling in love, and see the relationship progress. The love story is central to a romance novel, so I don’t like short cuts here.
Which is why, insta-love (an often used short cut) puts me off, and this book had a clear case of the same - Ananya was in love with Arjun, before she even met him. For Arjun too - it was love at first-sight!
Now, I have read enough romances to understand that, yes, there are times when a story/book starts with one person harboring a secret (or not so secret) crush on the other person. But even in those situations - the progression of the love story is shown, which makes it okay (Case in point - Against All Rules by Summerita Rhyane). But in Without You - there was no development or progression shown.
Also, several things (plot/dialogue etc) in this section came across as immature, and juvenile (to me). There was too much repetition, and no subtlety. And this would have been understandable, and completely acceptable, if the characters were 16 or 18, but Ananya was 20 and Arjun was 26. ReadMore
June 20, 2015
The story starts with Anu , an engineering student visiting her grandmother in a village called Sripuram. Maybe destiny had it she meets charismatic and smart Arjun who is a doctor as per his passion even though he owns great empire of multi million dollar company inherited from family. Anu's Grandmother Ammamma plays a role of cupid and brings together two souls. Ammamma's role is so heart warming that reader will definitely enjoy. But, there's a twist in tale. When Arjun Ananya love story takes uphill few misunderstanding leaves them fall. Emotional trauma leaves Ananya in kind of depression longing for Arjun while her friends Poornima , Khushi support her as best friends. Ananya returns to Bangalore concentrating more on her career along with her passion for art. Will Ananya forget Arjun? What made Arjun leave his angel Ananya?
The author has described the tale so well that it makes one want to read what happens further. What I really liked is each chapter starts with a quote and it makes one ponder. I fell in love with the cover of book when I saw it first time also the title. Character which i really liked is Amamma. She is simple and sweet. The story remains close to my heart. As a debut author Preethi has done commendable job as novel is really unique and stands out. If you believe in love story then "Without You " is the book to read. What are you waiting for? Go Grab the book!
The author has described the tale so well that it makes one want to read what happens further. What I really liked is each chapter starts with a quote and it makes one ponder. I fell in love with the cover of book when I saw it first time also the title. Character which i really liked is Amamma. She is simple and sweet. The story remains close to my heart. As a debut author Preethi has done commendable job as novel is really unique and stands out. If you believe in love story then "Without You " is the book to read. What are you waiting for? Go Grab the book!
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