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The Madras Affair
Sangita Sinclair was not always this successful & passionate lady, heading the NGO “Penn Urimai” for downtrodden, abused and homeless women….
When Sangita catches the eye of Gautam Sinclair she is a simple, homely girl; utterly unaware of her charms & capabilities. She has the devil’s own time in overcoming her inhibitions, hesitation, and her family’s orthodox and outdated rules before recognising her love for Gautam.
Will Gautam be able to solve Sangita’s Dilemma or will she be forever trapped in her past?
NOTE: This extensive edition comes with two extra chapters (10000 words)
When Sangita catches the eye of Gautam Sinclair she is a simple, homely girl; utterly unaware of her charms & capabilities. She has the devil’s own time in overcoming her inhibitions, hesitation, and her family’s orthodox and outdated rules before recognising her love for Gautam.
Will Gautam be able to solve Sangita’s Dilemma or will she be forever trapped in her past?
NOTE: This extensive edition comes with two extra chapters (10000 words)
265 pages, ebook
First published August 1, 2015
64 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Sundari Venkatraman
99 books231 followersSundari Venkatraman is an Indie Author who has 76 self-published books to her credit. These books have consistently featured in the Top 100 Bestseller Lists on Amazon India, Amazon USA, Amazon UK, Amazon Canada and Amazon Australia in both romance as well as Asian Drama categories. Her latest hot romances have all been on #1 Bestseller slot in Amazon India for over a month.
These days, the author is independently publishing her novels in paperback format under her banner Flaming Sun, printed and distributed by Notion Press.
Even as a child, Sundari absolutely loved the ‘lived happily ever after’ syndrome and she grew up on a steady diet of fairy tales, Phantom comics and Mandrake comics. It was always about good triumphing over evil and a happy ending after the protagonists surmounted all unexpected obstacles.
Once she entered her teens, Sundari switched her loyalties from fairy tales to Mills & Boon. While she loved reading both of these, she kept visualising what would have happened if there were similar situations happening in India; to local heroes and heroines. And of course, the joy of vanquishing the ubiquitous evil villains! Her imagination soared and she happily ensconced herself in a rosy romantic cocoon for many years.
Then came the writing—a true bolt from the blue! And Sundari Venkatraman has never looked back.
Use hashtag #60at60
You can connect with the author here: https://linktr.ee/sundarivenkatraman
These days, the author is independently publishing her novels in paperback format under her banner Flaming Sun, printed and distributed by Notion Press.
Even as a child, Sundari absolutely loved the ‘lived happily ever after’ syndrome and she grew up on a steady diet of fairy tales, Phantom comics and Mandrake comics. It was always about good triumphing over evil and a happy ending after the protagonists surmounted all unexpected obstacles.
Once she entered her teens, Sundari switched her loyalties from fairy tales to Mills & Boon. While she loved reading both of these, she kept visualising what would have happened if there were similar situations happening in India; to local heroes and heroines. And of course, the joy of vanquishing the ubiquitous evil villains! Her imagination soared and she happily ensconced herself in a rosy romantic cocoon for many years.
Then came the writing—a true bolt from the blue! And Sundari Venkatraman has never looked back.
Use hashtag #60at60
You can connect with the author here: https://linktr.ee/sundarivenkatraman
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 12, 2016
The Madras Affair was my first choice among Sundari Venkatraman’s books, simply because of the title! The moment I started reading the story, I was hooked because it is set in the late 90s, exactly the time I went to live in Chennai with my brand new husband. I still call it Madras in my head. The book was like a trip down the memory lane for me!
The protagonists, including the minor characters are very realistic. Sangita is the quintessential Indian woman from an orthodox family who struggles with her identity and suppressed emotions. Her family seemed real to me because people like that still do exist, especially in the smaller pockets of our society where religious and social dogmas are used as tools of suppression.
Sundari has depicted Sangita as her own greatest enemy. But then, it is true for most women who are brought up from childhood on a short leash. Like the baby elephant reared in captivity, never realizes its own mammoth strength as it grows into an adult elephant; that it can actually break the flimsy chains with just a jerk and be free.
The scenes of domestic discord are very realistic, especially with Radha patti and Gopal. I used to know some people like that and have seen this rubbish enacted many times in reality. How ironic that women should smite down their own sisters instead of providing the much needed support and affection. Who needs enemies when we have mothers like Radha who slash at their daughters’ confidence and crush their spirit? I burst into laughter when Radha patti’s partially comical lamentations end in ‘Bhagavane’ as though she were the victim! Yes, maybe she is just as much a victim who grew avaricious to protect herself from the system.
Gautam is truly the knight in shining armour who turns up to rescue the damsel in distress. The adorable English professor knows how to woo his lady with poetic earnestness. The chemistry between them was so sweet. The yearning, the passion of young love and the blossoming of friendship was all depicted very beautifully.
We need loving grandfathers like Ganapati and kind brothers like Raghavan too.
Giridhar was horrible! Again, an honest picture of an abusive, sadistic tyrant.
I don’t know if the modern, confident women of today would identify with Sangita’s character. It is so easy for most women today to take quick decisions in both professional and personal matters without being bound by archaic social rules. But a simple, shy woman from a traditional set up with a lot of baggage would understand Sangita’s predicament better.
Sometimes there is no choice because we just don’t see them as choices, but as rebellion and sin.
It was good to see her grow into a mature woman by the end of the book and not depend completely on Gautam to define her existence.
Loved this book from start to finish! I don’t know Tamil but I would still say, Romba nalla airukke, Sundari!
The protagonists, including the minor characters are very realistic. Sangita is the quintessential Indian woman from an orthodox family who struggles with her identity and suppressed emotions. Her family seemed real to me because people like that still do exist, especially in the smaller pockets of our society where religious and social dogmas are used as tools of suppression.
Sundari has depicted Sangita as her own greatest enemy. But then, it is true for most women who are brought up from childhood on a short leash. Like the baby elephant reared in captivity, never realizes its own mammoth strength as it grows into an adult elephant; that it can actually break the flimsy chains with just a jerk and be free.
The scenes of domestic discord are very realistic, especially with Radha patti and Gopal. I used to know some people like that and have seen this rubbish enacted many times in reality. How ironic that women should smite down their own sisters instead of providing the much needed support and affection. Who needs enemies when we have mothers like Radha who slash at their daughters’ confidence and crush their spirit? I burst into laughter when Radha patti’s partially comical lamentations end in ‘Bhagavane’ as though she were the victim! Yes, maybe she is just as much a victim who grew avaricious to protect herself from the system.
Gautam is truly the knight in shining armour who turns up to rescue the damsel in distress. The adorable English professor knows how to woo his lady with poetic earnestness. The chemistry between them was so sweet. The yearning, the passion of young love and the blossoming of friendship was all depicted very beautifully.
We need loving grandfathers like Ganapati and kind brothers like Raghavan too.
Giridhar was horrible! Again, an honest picture of an abusive, sadistic tyrant.
I don’t know if the modern, confident women of today would identify with Sangita’s character. It is so easy for most women today to take quick decisions in both professional and personal matters without being bound by archaic social rules. But a simple, shy woman from a traditional set up with a lot of baggage would understand Sangita’s predicament better.
Sometimes there is no choice because we just don’t see them as choices, but as rebellion and sin.
It was good to see her grow into a mature woman by the end of the book and not depend completely on Gautam to define her existence.
Loved this book from start to finish! I don’t know Tamil but I would still say, Romba nalla airukke, Sundari!
August 26, 2015
Characters:
Meet Sangita, a widow in her early twenties, who is trapped in the confines of an orthodox family. Sweet and shy, Sangita's world revolves around her son Sandeep. Unaware of her own beauty and charms, Sangita is bound to make the readers fall for her.
Meet Gautam Sinclair, our blue eyed hero from America. Gautam is the handsome hunk, who falls head over heels in love with Sangita, right from the first sight. English lecturer, a perfect gentleman and romantic at heart, Gautam is going to set many hearts on fire with his oh-so-perfect mannerisms.
Plot:
Sangita, head of Penn Urimai - an NGO for downtrodden, homeless and abused women, had a past; one that has taught her to stand up for herself and for million others who are victims of society's orthodox ways. But Sangita wasn't this brave always. There was a time when she had suffered all this silently... Until she met Gautam.
Gautam comes is like a gust of fresh air in Sangita's life. For once, Sangita feels like rebelling against everyone. But shedding the baggage of past isn't that easy. While Sangita fights with her own dilemma, Gautam works his charm to win her heart over. The question is, how long will it take for Sangita to realize that she cannot live without Gautam? What will it take for her orthodox family to agree for this proposal?
Things I Liked:
Read the full review here - Escape Reality - Book Reviews
Meet Sangita, a widow in her early twenties, who is trapped in the confines of an orthodox family. Sweet and shy, Sangita's world revolves around her son Sandeep. Unaware of her own beauty and charms, Sangita is bound to make the readers fall for her.
Meet Gautam Sinclair, our blue eyed hero from America. Gautam is the handsome hunk, who falls head over heels in love with Sangita, right from the first sight. English lecturer, a perfect gentleman and romantic at heart, Gautam is going to set many hearts on fire with his oh-so-perfect mannerisms.
Plot:
Sangita, head of Penn Urimai - an NGO for downtrodden, homeless and abused women, had a past; one that has taught her to stand up for herself and for million others who are victims of society's orthodox ways. But Sangita wasn't this brave always. There was a time when she had suffered all this silently... Until she met Gautam.
Gautam comes is like a gust of fresh air in Sangita's life. For once, Sangita feels like rebelling against everyone. But shedding the baggage of past isn't that easy. While Sangita fights with her own dilemma, Gautam works his charm to win her heart over. The question is, how long will it take for Sangita to realize that she cannot live without Gautam? What will it take for her orthodox family to agree for this proposal?
Things I Liked:
Read the full review here - Escape Reality - Book Reviews
December 5, 2018
Being a 'Chennaite' I was all kinds of excited and gleaming with pride just with the title. The book has made an accurate description on the city along with the timeline. Talks about how fu**ed up some old school parents behave and how that messes lives and hearts. But there were traces of the Typical Indian arrogance found in Gautam that could have been avoided and I felt the story was kind of short, not concise but short. A little more of emotional and physical chemistry could have drawn it a higher rating along with a little more details on about her other 2 kids and her NGO "Penn Urimai"
Overall a neat read.
Overall a neat read.
August 25, 2015
Love blooms between Sangita and Gautam, he is suave and handsome; a perfect gentleman. She is shy, beautiful, resplendent in her charms and yet innocently unaware as Gautam falls for her simplicity and sensuality. The Madras Affair is a story that reads itself; you end up turning the pages even as you wish the book would not finish so fast!
But there is more to the story. When I read the book in it beta it moved me and to say the end product gleams like the glittering Diamond Rose Sangita receives is true for the book too! To address issues that affect women and to present the ‘happy ending’ as well has been dealt expertly. Society changes if we change and The Madras Affair shows how!
This book takes a look into the unfair and malicious society that preys on simple, young women and then blames them too. Forced marriages, strict control and abuse are pretty common in our societies but not many women get a chance to break free. Gautam tries his best that Sangita soars and how!! We see women like Sangita but here the author has written a story that I feel delves into the heart of the matter. Most of the times these women do not know any different; that a better world, a happier world that awaits them if only they embrace it.
Looking for the silver lining, the light at the end of the tunnel of despair; The Madras Affair is one such story, Sangita is married at 19 and then a widow soon she knew little of happiness and love in her life. Sundari has written Sangita with a lot of thought, she represent the scores of young women who bow to their parents and husbands wishes, living their life as dictated by them. Life never offers a second chance to them but here Sangita gets another chance only she is so surprised and hesitant to take it that I wanted to push her towards Gautam at times! Ah! The girl!!
He is a gentleman and kind, thoughtful, charming and wants to love her, is besotted by her. Did I tell you he has intense, intoxicating blue eyes & a dimple? The guy is hot! Gautam Sinclair is a man who knows his mind and the moment he laid his eyes on Sangita, he knew he had found someone special. This is book is a statement that romance can be sensual and substantial. Not just fluff, misunderstandings and compromises but the epitome of true love.
To stand by your decision when everyone around you is against it and many are trying to sabotage the little chance at happiness you have requires a lot of confidence and faith for both partners. This story too had roadblocks at each turn but the help of supportive Rekha and Raghu made the path straightforward. The Sinclair family with their love and support add to the story.
The book has Giridhar, Radha and her vile tongue & Gopal; along with the slimy Rakesh to make her life hell. This book also has Sandeep; the cute little bundle of joy for Sangita and does he have a lot to say. The little boy & Gautam’s grandparents all do their bit to unite the two lovers. I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters as they play an important role and are well written. Ritikha, with her bindass attitude is my favourite.
Also I think Sid needs his story; I hope you are already writing one for him Sundari! Sid, who? Well you have to read the book for that!!
The language, story flow flawlessly, the flashback and the present are balanced and give a clear picture of the hesitation and hurt faced in the book. The words are well chosen and the occasional use of regional words add to the charm of the book.
Great chemistry, sizzling sensuality, endearing emotions, lots of reality and familial love all come together to form a dynamite mix for an absorbing read. Now it’s your turn, pick a copy today and experience love that celebrates the loved one!
(Thank you for the acknowledgement Sundari, it was easy to beta read this well crafted book. The review are my own thoughts)
But there is more to the story. When I read the book in it beta it moved me and to say the end product gleams like the glittering Diamond Rose Sangita receives is true for the book too! To address issues that affect women and to present the ‘happy ending’ as well has been dealt expertly. Society changes if we change and The Madras Affair shows how!
This book takes a look into the unfair and malicious society that preys on simple, young women and then blames them too. Forced marriages, strict control and abuse are pretty common in our societies but not many women get a chance to break free. Gautam tries his best that Sangita soars and how!! We see women like Sangita but here the author has written a story that I feel delves into the heart of the matter. Most of the times these women do not know any different; that a better world, a happier world that awaits them if only they embrace it.
Looking for the silver lining, the light at the end of the tunnel of despair; The Madras Affair is one such story, Sangita is married at 19 and then a widow soon she knew little of happiness and love in her life. Sundari has written Sangita with a lot of thought, she represent the scores of young women who bow to their parents and husbands wishes, living their life as dictated by them. Life never offers a second chance to them but here Sangita gets another chance only she is so surprised and hesitant to take it that I wanted to push her towards Gautam at times! Ah! The girl!!
He is a gentleman and kind, thoughtful, charming and wants to love her, is besotted by her. Did I tell you he has intense, intoxicating blue eyes & a dimple? The guy is hot! Gautam Sinclair is a man who knows his mind and the moment he laid his eyes on Sangita, he knew he had found someone special. This is book is a statement that romance can be sensual and substantial. Not just fluff, misunderstandings and compromises but the epitome of true love.
To stand by your decision when everyone around you is against it and many are trying to sabotage the little chance at happiness you have requires a lot of confidence and faith for both partners. This story too had roadblocks at each turn but the help of supportive Rekha and Raghu made the path straightforward. The Sinclair family with their love and support add to the story.
The book has Giridhar, Radha and her vile tongue & Gopal; along with the slimy Rakesh to make her life hell. This book also has Sandeep; the cute little bundle of joy for Sangita and does he have a lot to say. The little boy & Gautam’s grandparents all do their bit to unite the two lovers. I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters as they play an important role and are well written. Ritikha, with her bindass attitude is my favourite.
Also I think Sid needs his story; I hope you are already writing one for him Sundari! Sid, who? Well you have to read the book for that!!
The language, story flow flawlessly, the flashback and the present are balanced and give a clear picture of the hesitation and hurt faced in the book. The words are well chosen and the occasional use of regional words add to the charm of the book.
Great chemistry, sizzling sensuality, endearing emotions, lots of reality and familial love all come together to form a dynamite mix for an absorbing read. Now it’s your turn, pick a copy today and experience love that celebrates the loved one!
(Thank you for the acknowledgement Sundari, it was easy to beta read this well crafted book. The review are my own thoughts)
August 26, 2015
I am a huge fan of Sundari Venkatraman’s books like “The Runaway Bridegroom” and “Meghna”, so I was over the moon when she approached me with a beta-reading request for her latest romance novel “The Madras Affair”. And the book didn’t let me down at all, quite the contrary. I think it’s her best novel yet (though I have a tendency to say that after each of her new releases).
The story started with a glimpse of the present, where everything seemed so positive but with foreshadowing hints that I just knew something big had to be amiss. Sure enough, the next chapter was like a slap in the face.
I suffered alongside Sangita, and I could associate with her plight because the situation here in Sri Lanka is similar to the one in India, though not as severe and tragic. From that chapter on, the author had me hook, line, and sinker. She whisked me away in a maelstrom of emotions, portraying a deeply hurt heroine who had been pressed into a mould and made to obey, and felt like a caged bird to me. But she wasn’t as weak as she could have been, as the encounter with Gautam proved soon enough. And suddenly I had a different image while reading about her dilemma: a raw gem plucked from the depths of mud, with just a bit of sparkle to entice. The more I read about her – and the more she got involved with Gautam and his cajoling and admiration – the more of the gem shone through the rough shell, as if someone were polishing the stone. And once enough colours had broken through, Sangita bedazzled like the most beautiful of gemstones, showing her hidden strength, her awakened passion, and her potential.
Most of it was thanks to wonderful Gautam, a hero I have been dreaming about since. It wasn’t just his mix of India and America that is perfect, but also the way he never gives up. I loved the way he wooed Sangita, and the way he shaped her present and their future throughout the book. He too underwent a change, though much more subtle than Sangita’s immense transformation. I loved and hated the other characters with a passion.
As a beta reader, I look for inconsistencies in the plot, for superfluous scenes and for abrupt developments. I found none in this book. The flashbacks were neither too many nor too few and inserted in the right places.
I can highly recommend this novel to all those who love heroines that are anything but ordinary and refuse to be trampled upon. And to all who love reading about hunky heroes that are not ashamed to show emotions and know how to fight for what they want and what is right. The story is full of sizzle, thrill and insights into the human mind and heart. It’s thought-provoking, sensual and alive not just with the many authentic characters but also with the exotic setting of Madras, which the author clearly seems to love.
The story started with a glimpse of the present, where everything seemed so positive but with foreshadowing hints that I just knew something big had to be amiss. Sure enough, the next chapter was like a slap in the face.
I suffered alongside Sangita, and I could associate with her plight because the situation here in Sri Lanka is similar to the one in India, though not as severe and tragic. From that chapter on, the author had me hook, line, and sinker. She whisked me away in a maelstrom of emotions, portraying a deeply hurt heroine who had been pressed into a mould and made to obey, and felt like a caged bird to me. But she wasn’t as weak as she could have been, as the encounter with Gautam proved soon enough. And suddenly I had a different image while reading about her dilemma: a raw gem plucked from the depths of mud, with just a bit of sparkle to entice. The more I read about her – and the more she got involved with Gautam and his cajoling and admiration – the more of the gem shone through the rough shell, as if someone were polishing the stone. And once enough colours had broken through, Sangita bedazzled like the most beautiful of gemstones, showing her hidden strength, her awakened passion, and her potential.
Most of it was thanks to wonderful Gautam, a hero I have been dreaming about since. It wasn’t just his mix of India and America that is perfect, but also the way he never gives up. I loved the way he wooed Sangita, and the way he shaped her present and their future throughout the book. He too underwent a change, though much more subtle than Sangita’s immense transformation. I loved and hated the other characters with a passion.
As a beta reader, I look for inconsistencies in the plot, for superfluous scenes and for abrupt developments. I found none in this book. The flashbacks were neither too many nor too few and inserted in the right places.
I can highly recommend this novel to all those who love heroines that are anything but ordinary and refuse to be trampled upon. And to all who love reading about hunky heroes that are not ashamed to show emotions and know how to fight for what they want and what is right. The story is full of sizzle, thrill and insights into the human mind and heart. It’s thought-provoking, sensual and alive not just with the many authentic characters but also with the exotic setting of Madras, which the author clearly seems to love.
August 27, 2015
The Madras Affair by Sundari Venkatraman is an entertaining but mature love story, written fluently that I finished it in one sitting by 1am in the night or morning, whatever. The novel addresses the deep-rooted outdated and regressive customs still prevalent in India for widows and remarriage. Though the perception and outlook is changing bit by bit, it still is a kind of a disease in some parts of the country.
Sangita is a widow with a five year-old child, the story revolves around her life and her parents conservative ideas on how she should conduct herself in the society. They are more worried about the opinion of their neighborhood than the well-being and future of their own daughter.
Gautam, with a cute dimple and blue eyes, is a sexy-dream-come-true the moment he enters the hospital with his broken arm where Sangita works. As Sangita is caught between her desires and attraction to Gautam and fear of her parents views, an entertaining, romantic drama unfolds.
Sangita is homely and adorable and as I said Gautam weaves ‘love in the air’ magic. Chemistry between them is hot and sizzles, whenever they come together. The most entertaining part for me was the way he handled Sangita’s mental block (can’t giveaway too much). It was very entertaining to see her pine for him and gradually reconcile to the inevitable.
Loved the secondary characters both positive and negative ones. Sangita’s parents and her younger brother, Rakesh, are as slimy as one could get. One can never imagine a mother having such a vile tongue for her only daughter. But Rekha’s character, as Sangita’s bhabhi is note worthy. I wish more and more women stood for oppressed ones, as Rekha supports Sangita. Gautam’s large family is fabulous, cute kids and an adorable dog adds to myriad flavors of the story.
The story has the unmistakable stamp of Sundari’s style and brand. Language is simple and fluid. This is by far the best novel from Sundari’s desk and I am eagerly looking forward to read the next one, hopefully it will be about Siddharth with black eyes :-)
Highly recommend to people in love with love!
Disclaimer: I got this book from the author for my honest review.
Sangita is a widow with a five year-old child, the story revolves around her life and her parents conservative ideas on how she should conduct herself in the society. They are more worried about the opinion of their neighborhood than the well-being and future of their own daughter.
Gautam, with a cute dimple and blue eyes, is a sexy-dream-come-true the moment he enters the hospital with his broken arm where Sangita works. As Sangita is caught between her desires and attraction to Gautam and fear of her parents views, an entertaining, romantic drama unfolds.
Sangita is homely and adorable and as I said Gautam weaves ‘love in the air’ magic. Chemistry between them is hot and sizzles, whenever they come together. The most entertaining part for me was the way he handled Sangita’s mental block (can’t giveaway too much). It was very entertaining to see her pine for him and gradually reconcile to the inevitable.
Loved the secondary characters both positive and negative ones. Sangita’s parents and her younger brother, Rakesh, are as slimy as one could get. One can never imagine a mother having such a vile tongue for her only daughter. But Rekha’s character, as Sangita’s bhabhi is note worthy. I wish more and more women stood for oppressed ones, as Rekha supports Sangita. Gautam’s large family is fabulous, cute kids and an adorable dog adds to myriad flavors of the story.
The story has the unmistakable stamp of Sundari’s style and brand. Language is simple and fluid. This is by far the best novel from Sundari’s desk and I am eagerly looking forward to read the next one, hopefully it will be about Siddharth with black eyes :-)
Highly recommend to people in love with love!
Disclaimer: I got this book from the author for my honest review.
November 23, 2015
Positive. Engaging, Well-narrated. These are the top 3 things I liked about Madras Affair.
The story of Sangita's journey of rediscovering herself & both emotional as well sensuous aspects of relationships is the theme of the book.
MA is very fresh take on the widow-remarriage concept. Usually, books on this subject have the tendency of getting preachy or boring, but no MA was an expectation and indeed a wonderful one. People talk about the social aspect of this issue; MA explored a personal journey of the woman considering this big step in life. It's society, the new man in her life and tormented memories of past, from her lens.
I think the author did an outstanding job of making her book stand out.
It's true that in our country even in metro cities like Chennai, people like Sangita's parents & Gautam's grandparents live in a 1-mile radius. It's the unfortunate contrast of our confused society. And this contrast was another thing, author researched very well and brought to life in simple words.
The only thing I didn't like was how Gautam finally managed to convince Sangita's parents. I understand every author has their own story to tell & it's unfair to suggest on how they'd like to conclude. But provided she was projected as head of a group that works for women; I was looking for some seething rebels in the story which is placed in her early days.
Apart from that, the story is simple yet engaging. You end up loving Sangita & admiring Gautam. Gautam, in particular, I liked little more; all because his charms and most importantly his patience with his lady love to break the shell. We need more Gautams in our society, we definitely do.
Highly recommended!
The story of Sangita's journey of rediscovering herself & both emotional as well sensuous aspects of relationships is the theme of the book.
MA is very fresh take on the widow-remarriage concept. Usually, books on this subject have the tendency of getting preachy or boring, but no MA was an expectation and indeed a wonderful one. People talk about the social aspect of this issue; MA explored a personal journey of the woman considering this big step in life. It's society, the new man in her life and tormented memories of past, from her lens.
I think the author did an outstanding job of making her book stand out.
It's true that in our country even in metro cities like Chennai, people like Sangita's parents & Gautam's grandparents live in a 1-mile radius. It's the unfortunate contrast of our confused society. And this contrast was another thing, author researched very well and brought to life in simple words.
The only thing I didn't like was how Gautam finally managed to convince Sangita's parents. I understand every author has their own story to tell & it's unfair to suggest on how they'd like to conclude. But provided she was projected as head of a group that works for women; I was looking for some seething rebels in the story which is placed in her early days.
Apart from that, the story is simple yet engaging. You end up loving Sangita & admiring Gautam. Gautam, in particular, I liked little more; all because his charms and most importantly his patience with his lady love to break the shell. We need more Gautams in our society, we definitely do.
Highly recommended!
January 1, 2018
I have always liked Sundari Venkatraman books. The stories she writes are a lot more than the love stories. These are the stories about the women empowerment, the struggle they face. Each story written by her always gives a different message. She makes these serious topics so interesting that you not only enjoy the story but you also feel like fighting for the cause. She has written about gays, child marriage, girl child and this time it’s widow remarriage.Though India seems to have progressed too much but widow remarriage is still a taboo in our society. A girl is considered a burden till she is married off and once married, she has no right on her own family and her home. Since birth she is considered a “Paraya Dhan”.
This book is all about the struggle Sangita faces in society and how her own family does not support her. To her family society is far more important than her happiness.
I must congratulate the author for writing such a fine book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and loved every bits of it. I can easily say that of all the author’s books, this one is my favourite. I have already read it twice and you should definitely read this book.
This book is all about the struggle Sangita faces in society and how her own family does not support her. To her family society is far more important than her happiness.
I must congratulate the author for writing such a fine book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and loved every bits of it. I can easily say that of all the author’s books, this one is my favourite. I have already read it twice and you should definitely read this book.
August 6, 2021
There are a lots of stigmas that still gnaws our society due to limiting beliefs of the people or the way they have brought up thinking more about society rather than their own family. Widow remarriage is one such taboo which is highlighted in this novel and a a tale is built around it.
Sangita is the head of a NGO ,Penn Urimai which caters to the needs of unfortunate women. She herself has been in a not so successful marriage setup and was unfortunately widowed at the mere age of twenty. To add to her woes, her family is also of orthodox mindset. But her life changes when she meets Gautam who makes her feel special. What happens next ? Read the book to find out.
The story is interesting and it not only is a romantic tale but also comes with a moral lesson though the love story forms the major chunk of the book. The cover is attractive and the characterization is done well as Sangita comes across as a confident strong headed woman. The book can be read by adults but shouldn't be picked up by very young audience as sensuality and a bit of such desires are also covered .
Overall a nice read especially for the women who can't see any light at the end of tunnel.
Sangita is the head of a NGO ,Penn Urimai which caters to the needs of unfortunate women. She herself has been in a not so successful marriage setup and was unfortunately widowed at the mere age of twenty. To add to her woes, her family is also of orthodox mindset. But her life changes when she meets Gautam who makes her feel special. What happens next ? Read the book to find out.
The story is interesting and it not only is a romantic tale but also comes with a moral lesson though the love story forms the major chunk of the book. The cover is attractive and the characterization is done well as Sangita comes across as a confident strong headed woman. The book can be read by adults but shouldn't be picked up by very young audience as sensuality and a bit of such desires are also covered .
Overall a nice read especially for the women who can't see any light at the end of tunnel.
December 27, 2015
The Madras Affair by Sundari Venkatraman, a book that would draw any Chennaite to pick a copy for the title and the author. I received the e-book for review from the book club. Regardless of my love for Madras, Sundari, and TBC, the review presented below is honest indeed.
First Impression: Pretty attractive title and a cover so strong. With a voluptuous woman’s body and a face with eyes so powerful, representing a tale of a woman’s life history. Inviting!
Overall Impression: Spellbound. The smile that I had when I read the first chapter vanished when I finished the second. The lovely story turned to a painful history in a matter of a few pages. The pain inscribed in every word used to describe what Sangita has gone through picks like a thorn. It shrieks the reader. Sundari has ensured to choose the right words to give life to pain. At the end of the second chapter, I started reading the third with a thirst to know how Sangita made it. A feminist or no, the story touches the soul.
What did I love about the book? – With no doubts the Characters. Gautam, the blue-eyed hero is the one that any woman would love to meet. Prince charming and chivalrous, who showers the much deserved love on Sangita, as if, the prayers of readers who got the gist of what she went through in her past were answered. In a matter of a chapter, Sundari injected much hatred towards Sangita’s first husband, which rather delighted the reader to hear the news of demise rather than to land as a shock. Though the subject handled has potential to say it is deep and dark, the author has ensured to leaf-in details like Sangita-Gautam’s conversations that make it a light read which many authors give it a miss.
Wow Factors: 1) Language and choice of words 2) The nativity followed – She takes the reader to 1995 with names like Pankajam being used, and the breeze of words like Idly, Sambar, Upma, and coconut chutney, which marks that it is Madras. 3) Beautiful portrayal of what the woman goes through, especially the parts where that Sangita had to agree for a tonsure in the event of her husband’s death and the light thrown at her sexual frustration takes a special mention which most leave unattended. When there are artificial stories and movies that say a woman will lose interest in sex and would dedicate her whole life to help her kids grow, The Madras Affair tears the mask created and calls a spade as a spade. 4) Figurative language perfumed when required adding more value to understand the depth of the situation 5) Beautiful dive on the oscillations a woman would go through in unfavorable situations. 6) Handling emotions of a kid in want of a father to feel complete have never been this real! Stunning is an understatement.
Frown Factors: 1) A bit on the lengthy side which slows down the pace here and there, though at times a few detailing were eye-catching, there were places that makes a reader skim through than read. Otherwise, a wonderful read!
July 24, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts with Sangita, the empowered, successful head of an NGO that works to improve the lives of battered and homeless women. We are introduced to her supporting and loving husband Gautam, an American.
As the story unfolds, we find out about Sangita’s past. She is born to an orthodox South Indian family and married off at the age of nineteen. We find out about her abusive husband, his sudden death while driving drunk, and the impossible demands and blame her family places on Sangita and her little boy. Young Sangita falls head over heels with Gautam while working as a receptionist in a hospital,. But she has been brought up to follow the norms of her conservative society and finds it difficult to accept Gautam’s affection.
Gautam is born to an American father and Indian mother, and lives with his grandparents in India, teaching at a local university. Having grown up in the US, he does not understand the traditions and taboos a young widow with a child faces.
With the help of her sister-in-law, her son, and Gautam’s grandparents, Sangita finds the will to overcome parental pressure and establish her authority to finally free herself form the societal chains that bind her.
With strong and well fleshed out characters, an interesting plotline, vivid imagery and a satisfying conclusion, Sundari Venkatraman takes us on a romantic journey, which leaves us smiling in the end.
Highly recommended!
The book starts with Sangita, the empowered, successful head of an NGO that works to improve the lives of battered and homeless women. We are introduced to her supporting and loving husband Gautam, an American.
As the story unfolds, we find out about Sangita’s past. She is born to an orthodox South Indian family and married off at the age of nineteen. We find out about her abusive husband, his sudden death while driving drunk, and the impossible demands and blame her family places on Sangita and her little boy. Young Sangita falls head over heels with Gautam while working as a receptionist in a hospital,. But she has been brought up to follow the norms of her conservative society and finds it difficult to accept Gautam’s affection.
Gautam is born to an American father and Indian mother, and lives with his grandparents in India, teaching at a local university. Having grown up in the US, he does not understand the traditions and taboos a young widow with a child faces.
With the help of her sister-in-law, her son, and Gautam’s grandparents, Sangita finds the will to overcome parental pressure and establish her authority to finally free herself form the societal chains that bind her.
With strong and well fleshed out characters, an interesting plotline, vivid imagery and a satisfying conclusion, Sundari Venkatraman takes us on a romantic journey, which leaves us smiling in the end.
Highly recommended!
January 7, 2016
The Madras Affair is unlike any other books of Sundari’s books I have read. In this she touches a very sensitive yet pertinent subject.
Even though we live in the 22nd century, we do have ultra-orthodox and conservative people like Radha and Gopal who curse their fate for having a daughter who is not only widowed but also beautiful and who make it a point to make everyone's life miserable. They live by - "what society thinks!" forgetting that they are the society.
With no other alternative Sangita is resigned to her fate and being an obedient daughter she is satisfied to live a life that is dictated by her parents. She finds solace and an ally in her brother and sister-in-law who try to make her life a little easier for her.
Gautam is a man of every woman’s dream…sigh! I could not stop reading about him. Having grown up abroad to an American father and an Indian mother, he doesn’t understand Sangita’s dilemma or her fear of her parents.
Though this is a love story, this is also about a abusive relationship which has left scars so deep that it takes a lot of effort to overcome; this is also about widow remarriage and also about the orthodox society that is blinded and bribed by money.
The chemistry between Gautam and Sangita is wrought with emotions and humor too, the tension palpable. Sangita’s fears justified. Gautam’s grandparents are like a breath of fresh air.
Sundari has done a commendable job with this novel.
Even though we live in the 22nd century, we do have ultra-orthodox and conservative people like Radha and Gopal who curse their fate for having a daughter who is not only widowed but also beautiful and who make it a point to make everyone's life miserable. They live by - "what society thinks!" forgetting that they are the society.
With no other alternative Sangita is resigned to her fate and being an obedient daughter she is satisfied to live a life that is dictated by her parents. She finds solace and an ally in her brother and sister-in-law who try to make her life a little easier for her.
Gautam is a man of every woman’s dream…sigh! I could not stop reading about him. Having grown up abroad to an American father and an Indian mother, he doesn’t understand Sangita’s dilemma or her fear of her parents.
Though this is a love story, this is also about a abusive relationship which has left scars so deep that it takes a lot of effort to overcome; this is also about widow remarriage and also about the orthodox society that is blinded and bribed by money.
The chemistry between Gautam and Sangita is wrought with emotions and humor too, the tension palpable. Sangita’s fears justified. Gautam’s grandparents are like a breath of fresh air.
Sundari has done a commendable job with this novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2015
I’ve read “The runaway bridegroom“, and looked forward to reading The Madras Affair with great anticipation. I am delighted to say I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Sundari has the gift of weaving a story skilfully. What intrigued me about The Madras Affair was her insightful understanding of exactly how orthodox South Indian families work, to the minutest detail. I would know – I come from one. Another thing I admired was the way she presented various timelines in the book, dextrously navigating between past and present, so as to give the story a smooth and uninterrupted flow. Not a single hiccup, no pause for the reader.
My full book review of The Madras Affair is here
Sundari has the gift of weaving a story skilfully. What intrigued me about The Madras Affair was her insightful understanding of exactly how orthodox South Indian families work, to the minutest detail. I would know – I come from one. Another thing I admired was the way she presented various timelines in the book, dextrously navigating between past and present, so as to give the story a smooth and uninterrupted flow. Not a single hiccup, no pause for the reader.
My full book review of The Madras Affair is here
January 1, 2016
The story revolves around Sangita, a widow in her early twenties, confined in the cruelties and extremities of her orthodox family. The handsome Gautam Sinclair falls in love with the sweet and innocent Sangita and is determined to marry her. Having been brought up abroad, he has a distinct view on life and do not believe in the atrocious norms and customs surrounding widows, prevailing in many parts of India. Having treated unfairly, the marriage had left a bad taste in Sangita's mouth. With her extreme aversion towards men, will Sangita accept Gautam's proposal? Despite all her efforts, will she be able to let go off her worries and accept true love?
Whoa!
Read the entire review here: https://taleoftwotomatoes.wordpress.c...
Whoa!
Read the entire review here: https://taleoftwotomatoes.wordpress.c...
January 3, 2016
What I loved about the book: To begin with, the best part was the way in which the book had been written. Language was flawless, the characters had been well framed and the setting ready for something to take place. The way the author handled the religious orthodoxy deserve accolades. In some stories, even though you know how the end will be, you wish to know how it eventually did. And the way the novel ended was again wonderful.
What I didn't like about the book: Very little. At one or two places, the book tends to be a big of a drag...but that is it I suppose.
What I didn't like about the book: Very little. At one or two places, the book tends to be a big of a drag...but that is it I suppose.
October 22, 2016
She...
She is Sangita. Introduced to us as the head of an NGO for downtrodden and homeless women. But not many eons ago, Sangita was one of them. Ah well, not homeless but a woman doesn't need the deprivation of a 'house' to feel homeless, now does she? An abusive husband is a gift enough to make one feel so.
Sangita's first marriage is introduced to us as abusive and violent. Marital rape is such a hushed up subject, both in India and on the western shores. Ms. Venkatraman has not glorified it nor has she made it the core subject of this novel. But the anger is equally potent and can be felt only by a woman after reading the story. The most criminal part in this whole story is when a woman is told time and again,
"A woman's place is with her husband, Sangita. She has no respect if she stays away from him."
I only have one word for this - Bull!
What many don't realize is that an abusive person wants only one thing...
"They were unable to understand that Giridhar was doing his best to break down her will ..."
That sums up Sangita's circumstances.
Lady with dignity..
But Sangita is not shown as a downtrodden woman in any frame of the story. I would call her a subdued fighter. When she first hears about her husband's demise, I loved the lack of pretence in her.
"I feel as if an extremely vicious curse has been lifted off me.” She gave her sister-in-law a small, nervous smile.
Frankly speaking, if she had mourned the death of her husband, I would have shut down the book. So kudos to Ms. Venkataman for being very honest with the emotions here. Time to be a angel is over. :D
It is sad when a woman and an innocent child are blamed for the death of man who was riding a bike after consuming alcohol. But I suppose, the way of society is still in its infancy stage and reasoning is yet to be a developed 'organ' in a human body.
And in the midst of all her troubles, she meets Gautam....
He...
He is Gautam Sinclair. Ms.Venkatraman's blue eyed boy. A man who comes with his own set of weaknesses and strengths. A man who comes across as a normal human. Leaving his American way of life behind, he settles down in India to teach. When he meets Sangita for the first time, he is bowled over by her simplicity and beauty. But with the constant fear Sangita had with regard to her parents, she is unable to accept his love. From the time he met her, he understood her. Like two soulmates meeting after a long time.
The Story ..
When Gautam meets Sangita, she is a widow with a young child. Moreover the society she lives in does not encourage widow remarriage. Gautam has lived in the USA all his life and all the taboos of the society are beyond his understanding.
Sangita on the other hand cannot break the chains of tradition yet the attraction she feels for Gautam slowly consumes her. But her earlier marriage has left her with many scars. Will she be carrying all her scars into this new relationship? Will Gautam be able to accept Sangita with all her baggage?
The Love Story..
Every love story must have a villain. And so does the love story of Sangita and Gautam. The society. Widow remarriage is slowly catching up in our society but it was not always so. What surprised me in Sangita's case is that it is her own parents who were against her remarriage. In the beginning, it was only Sangita's mom who did not get any brownie points from me when she made Sangita go back to her abusive hubby. As the story unfolds her lack of sympathy towards Sangita really riled me as a reader. Moreover Sangita is shown as a woman who wants to please everyone. So will she be able to convince her parents regarding her second chance?
Growth of Characters...
I might sound biased here but for me, as a woman, Sangita flowered as a character. But I cannot say the same with Gautam. He is really a 50 shades of emotions for me. In some scenes you will love him while in some he comes out as arrogant. There is one scene where his human weakness is totally naked for all to see... and a few to admire. It takes a lot of guts to give your protag a few moments of weakness - especially when one expects him to be the savior of Sangita.
Touches of Reality....
Every story of Ms. Venkatraman has a touch of reality. Feminism is subtle. Some might protest even at the lack of overt feminism. But it's there. It's not the kind where a woman can blatantly stand against a man or will demonstrate feminism holding a placard. It's more subtle. It’s more deep. It's more real. Sangita is an ordinary girl who becomes extraordinary due to her circumstances.
The above five stars are for the beautiful flow of the story and the meticulous editing by Indrani Ganguly. There two things which I should mention here.
I felt the 'weak moment' of Gautam did not suit his character portrayal.
The backstory of Sangita's life could have been reduced to one telling. By the time Sangita tells Gautam everything, we already knew it. That tends to take us away from the main plot of the love story.
But the above points are my perspective as a reader, it is not a grammatical error nor does it hamper the flow of the story. Many of you might think otherwise. .. but to prove me wrong, you of course, have to read this one. :D
Would I recommend this to anyone...
A must read for all Romance lovers.
The Line that Stayed with me ...
“Oh,” interrupted Sandeep impatiently. “I’m not talking about my Giri Daddy. He died. Are you going to be my new daddy?” he asked again.
Such innocence!
She is Sangita. Introduced to us as the head of an NGO for downtrodden and homeless women. But not many eons ago, Sangita was one of them. Ah well, not homeless but a woman doesn't need the deprivation of a 'house' to feel homeless, now does she? An abusive husband is a gift enough to make one feel so.
Sangita's first marriage is introduced to us as abusive and violent. Marital rape is such a hushed up subject, both in India and on the western shores. Ms. Venkatraman has not glorified it nor has she made it the core subject of this novel. But the anger is equally potent and can be felt only by a woman after reading the story. The most criminal part in this whole story is when a woman is told time and again,
"A woman's place is with her husband, Sangita. She has no respect if she stays away from him."
I only have one word for this - Bull!
What many don't realize is that an abusive person wants only one thing...
"They were unable to understand that Giridhar was doing his best to break down her will ..."
That sums up Sangita's circumstances.
Lady with dignity..
But Sangita is not shown as a downtrodden woman in any frame of the story. I would call her a subdued fighter. When she first hears about her husband's demise, I loved the lack of pretence in her.
"I feel as if an extremely vicious curse has been lifted off me.” She gave her sister-in-law a small, nervous smile.
Frankly speaking, if she had mourned the death of her husband, I would have shut down the book. So kudos to Ms. Venkataman for being very honest with the emotions here. Time to be a angel is over. :D
It is sad when a woman and an innocent child are blamed for the death of man who was riding a bike after consuming alcohol. But I suppose, the way of society is still in its infancy stage and reasoning is yet to be a developed 'organ' in a human body.
And in the midst of all her troubles, she meets Gautam....
He...
He is Gautam Sinclair. Ms.Venkatraman's blue eyed boy. A man who comes with his own set of weaknesses and strengths. A man who comes across as a normal human. Leaving his American way of life behind, he settles down in India to teach. When he meets Sangita for the first time, he is bowled over by her simplicity and beauty. But with the constant fear Sangita had with regard to her parents, she is unable to accept his love. From the time he met her, he understood her. Like two soulmates meeting after a long time.
The Story ..
When Gautam meets Sangita, she is a widow with a young child. Moreover the society she lives in does not encourage widow remarriage. Gautam has lived in the USA all his life and all the taboos of the society are beyond his understanding.
Sangita on the other hand cannot break the chains of tradition yet the attraction she feels for Gautam slowly consumes her. But her earlier marriage has left her with many scars. Will she be carrying all her scars into this new relationship? Will Gautam be able to accept Sangita with all her baggage?
The Love Story..
Every love story must have a villain. And so does the love story of Sangita and Gautam. The society. Widow remarriage is slowly catching up in our society but it was not always so. What surprised me in Sangita's case is that it is her own parents who were against her remarriage. In the beginning, it was only Sangita's mom who did not get any brownie points from me when she made Sangita go back to her abusive hubby. As the story unfolds her lack of sympathy towards Sangita really riled me as a reader. Moreover Sangita is shown as a woman who wants to please everyone. So will she be able to convince her parents regarding her second chance?
Growth of Characters...
I might sound biased here but for me, as a woman, Sangita flowered as a character. But I cannot say the same with Gautam. He is really a 50 shades of emotions for me. In some scenes you will love him while in some he comes out as arrogant. There is one scene where his human weakness is totally naked for all to see... and a few to admire. It takes a lot of guts to give your protag a few moments of weakness - especially when one expects him to be the savior of Sangita.
Touches of Reality....
Every story of Ms. Venkatraman has a touch of reality. Feminism is subtle. Some might protest even at the lack of overt feminism. But it's there. It's not the kind where a woman can blatantly stand against a man or will demonstrate feminism holding a placard. It's more subtle. It’s more deep. It's more real. Sangita is an ordinary girl who becomes extraordinary due to her circumstances.
The above five stars are for the beautiful flow of the story and the meticulous editing by Indrani Ganguly. There two things which I should mention here.
I felt the 'weak moment' of Gautam did not suit his character portrayal.
The backstory of Sangita's life could have been reduced to one telling. By the time Sangita tells Gautam everything, we already knew it. That tends to take us away from the main plot of the love story.
But the above points are my perspective as a reader, it is not a grammatical error nor does it hamper the flow of the story. Many of you might think otherwise. .. but to prove me wrong, you of course, have to read this one. :D
Would I recommend this to anyone...
A must read for all Romance lovers.
The Line that Stayed with me ...
“Oh,” interrupted Sandeep impatiently. “I’m not talking about my Giri Daddy. He died. Are you going to be my new daddy?” he asked again.
Such innocence!
September 9, 2017
I first read this book in March 2016 but I really enjoyed rereading it now in its revamped edition. I have run out of adjectives to qualify Sundari's books but all I can say is that Sundari never defrauds my expectations. A must read.
September 11, 2015
There is no escaping the fact that blue eyes and a lone dimple can play havoc in the mind of a woman! Especially a woman like Sangita whose life so far has been no bed of roses. A delicate beauty, she has never known real love, as her husband, Giridhar, keeps her teetering between apprehension and unhappiness. The only gift he gives her is her son, Sandeep, who is the centre of her universe. When he conveniently dies, she is far from devastated.
However, she cannot escape the curses and the barbs thrown at her by her parents who are stuck in a time warp, somewhere in the beginning of the 18th century. Her mother, Radha, especially, makes her life a living hell, blaming her for being a widow, forcing her to believe that her life has come to an end. “A woman’s place is with her husband, Sangita. She has no respect if she stays away from him."
So when, at 25, the beautiful and vulnerable Sangita comes across the devastatingly attractive Gautam at the hospital where she works, she is overwhelmed. Her mind refuses to accept the fact that this Adonis could be interested in her. "Brown hair with golden streaks, very fair skin, Indian features till you catch his eyes. Electric blue." She describes him, thus, to her sympathetic sister in law, Rekha.
Gautam, who is at the hospital because he has fractured his arm, is bowled over by the lovely lady in simple pastels, who refuses to allow him any liberties. He wonders whether she is a figment of his imagination. "She was like a butterfly fluttering near a flower, ready to take flight at the slightest disturbance.
Gauatm realizes that it is difficult to break through Sangita's defences. In her mind, all men are chauvinists, looking down upon women in general.
The relationship between Gautam and his grandparents, Ganapathi and Vimala, is a delightful one. They dote on him, and there is a playfulness that comes across, revealing the deep affection that they bear one another. Having witnessed the vicissitudes in Sangita's life, they also have "a soft spot for the young woman who carried the troubles of her small world so bravely on her slender shoulders."
Gautam plays his cards carefully. He decides to make friends with Sandeep first. "One thought dominated the child’s mind. He urgently required a father to set his grandmother’s mind at peace."
Does Gautam succeed in breaking through Sangita's defences? What roles do Sangita's brothers, Rakesh and Raghavan, play in the whole plot? How can stark conservatism and traditional mumbo jumbo be overcome? What is the ploy that finally breaks the camel's back?
Sundari Venkatraman is a storyteller par excellence. Her narrative flows like a stream, with all its little eddies and waves; never once does the flow stop, and this is the skill that comes through in all her books. One is compelled to continue reading till the very end. The writing is natural, never forced, and the very simplicity of the plot keeps the reader hooked.
Another plus for me is how the novel is so well grounded in Madras. There are references to the social evils that were prevalent in the past, but never once, do these take away from the love story that is the hero of the plot. Kudos to Sundari Venkatraman for having sustained the tempo of the story without once turning preachy!
Verdict: A tale well woven into the fabric of Madras, with all its features and foibles!
October 19, 2015
The Madras Affair
Author: Sundari Venkatraman
Publisher: Readomania
Rating: Four stars
Intro:
You are in for a surprise for Sundari Venkatraman’s, ‘The Madras Affair’ releases today.The author who displays effortless finesse in narrating romance stories pushes up the bar higher this time and successfully experiments with a new genre. Yes! It is romance but successfully explore the condition of a woman, a divorcee, her sexuality, struggle from an unsuccessful marriage, in a ultra conservative family firmed in stone aged values around which her whose life revolves and her destiny, meeting the man of her life and her success as head of an NGO. The result is bang on. The author should be credited for exploring the dark side of life, not overdoing it and toning down with the flow ensuring that it’s not heavy. It’s simply a superb read, crafted with lyrical words and perfect take on social conditions of woman, sexuality and romance enmeshed in sync each other with the right dose. The Madras Affair is one book that will touch your heart and soul. Mesmerizing, enticing and simply superb. It belongs to all the women struggling and leading a successful life.
Blurb:
Sangita, head of Penn Urimai – an NGO for downtrodden, homeless and abused women – was not always this successful and confident… Born and brought up in the city of Madras and widowed at just twenty, Sangita builds an iron wall around herself till she meets Gautam who makes her aware of her sensuousness and charms. But Sangita not only has to fight her family’s orthodox and outdated rules, but also her own inhibitions and hesitations before she can walk into the future with her blue-eyed lover. Will Gautam be able to solve Sangita’s dilemma or will she be forever trapped in her past?
Narration:
Sundari Venkatrman has a natural ability to connect with her readers and the chemistry she shares with them is palatable. It’s a mirror in the world of Sangeeta, her pain, angst as she injects in the character, a degree of complexity that is very well-defined. Sangeeta’s misery never ends when she thinks she earned respite. It’s touching when the cop knocks on the door of Sangeeta to inform about the ‘bad news’ and she feels liberated looking at her only son, Sandeep. The latter is a character that will melt your heart, the innocence of a child wanting a Daddy. It’s scripted in a sensitive manner and gently touches the heart of a child and its imagination. The author makes Sandeep one of the pivotal character in the book, adding charm and spark to ignite the romance between Sangeeta and Gautam.
What I like with Sundari Venkatraman is that she always introduces charming and endearing characters, be it the young child Sandeep and the pet Butter Scotch as well as Sandeep’s lovable grand parents. It’s the clash of ideologies in a civilized society with good grand parents and Sangeeta’s evil parents.
Read full review on:
https://vishalbheeroo.wordpress.com/2...
Author: Sundari Venkatraman
Publisher: Readomania
Rating: Four stars
Intro:
You are in for a surprise for Sundari Venkatraman’s, ‘The Madras Affair’ releases today.The author who displays effortless finesse in narrating romance stories pushes up the bar higher this time and successfully experiments with a new genre. Yes! It is romance but successfully explore the condition of a woman, a divorcee, her sexuality, struggle from an unsuccessful marriage, in a ultra conservative family firmed in stone aged values around which her whose life revolves and her destiny, meeting the man of her life and her success as head of an NGO. The result is bang on. The author should be credited for exploring the dark side of life, not overdoing it and toning down with the flow ensuring that it’s not heavy. It’s simply a superb read, crafted with lyrical words and perfect take on social conditions of woman, sexuality and romance enmeshed in sync each other with the right dose. The Madras Affair is one book that will touch your heart and soul. Mesmerizing, enticing and simply superb. It belongs to all the women struggling and leading a successful life.
Blurb:
Sangita, head of Penn Urimai – an NGO for downtrodden, homeless and abused women – was not always this successful and confident… Born and brought up in the city of Madras and widowed at just twenty, Sangita builds an iron wall around herself till she meets Gautam who makes her aware of her sensuousness and charms. But Sangita not only has to fight her family’s orthodox and outdated rules, but also her own inhibitions and hesitations before she can walk into the future with her blue-eyed lover. Will Gautam be able to solve Sangita’s dilemma or will she be forever trapped in her past?
Narration:
Sundari Venkatrman has a natural ability to connect with her readers and the chemistry she shares with them is palatable. It’s a mirror in the world of Sangeeta, her pain, angst as she injects in the character, a degree of complexity that is very well-defined. Sangeeta’s misery never ends when she thinks she earned respite. It’s touching when the cop knocks on the door of Sangeeta to inform about the ‘bad news’ and she feels liberated looking at her only son, Sandeep. The latter is a character that will melt your heart, the innocence of a child wanting a Daddy. It’s scripted in a sensitive manner and gently touches the heart of a child and its imagination. The author makes Sandeep one of the pivotal character in the book, adding charm and spark to ignite the romance between Sangeeta and Gautam.
What I like with Sundari Venkatraman is that she always introduces charming and endearing characters, be it the young child Sandeep and the pet Butter Scotch as well as Sandeep’s lovable grand parents. It’s the clash of ideologies in a civilized society with good grand parents and Sangeeta’s evil parents.
Read full review on:
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February 15, 2016
The Madras Affair by Sundari Venkatraman is a mushy romance perfect for light reading. It was a quick and simple read, and combined romance with high-drama, full of pointless vituperations. I liked the way the author brought alive the mind of the protagonist Sangita to the reader.
Sangita is a widow with a little son whose mean husband dies in a drunken bike accident. She picks up the pieces and starts living with her parents, but her parents are orthodox about widowhood to the point of malice against Sangita. Gautam meets Sangita at the hospital where she works and instantly falls in love with her. Sangita reciprocates the feeling, but she’s bogged down by her vile parents and her own inhibitions against physical intimacy. The story unfolds how these two obstacles are overcome.
Since the book begins with a happy ending, it was impossible to expect anything else from the story. The ups and downs, the possible problems, were all anticipated by the established behaviours of Sangita’s parents and her own inhibitions after a disastrous marriage.
Gautam’s character did not endear himself to me. His anger at Sangita in the initial days of their relationship was unjustified and demanding. Though he invoked trust and charisma, I couldn’t imagine myself being able to talk to him without him snarling back at me. Slightly self-centred, and unthinking of others’ circumstances. Also, his love for Sangita was an intention to possess, irrespective of how Sangita felt. Sometimes I found myself thinking if the author had moulded Gautam into a typical male character as she was not sure how men react in certain situations. Even a “forward” woman like me found it difficult to accept that Gautam expected physical passion from Sangita within two days of being acquainted. But maybe we can blame his American upbringing for that? However, he improved once he heard the story of Sangita’s first marriage, and turned into a perfectly accommodating person.
Sangita’s character, on the other hand, was very sympathisable. I could totally understand her fears and the situation. Her brother Raghavan and his wife Rekha, the ones who support Sangita and Gautam’s relationship, are also likeable characters. Sandeep, Sandita’s son is a perspicacious child and one feels glad that Sangita has such a good son. Even the small character of Rakesh, Sangita’s second brother, is believable. However, her parents are orthodoxy personified. Which is okay, believable. But the way their approval was obtained for Gautam and Sangita’s marriage was quite unbelievable. I know some such orthodox parents, but I know for sure that they wouldn’t have agreed to the method Gopal and Radha chose. To know what that is, go read the book!
The writing is uncomplicated and the narrative straightforward. There are also erotic descriptions for those who care for it. All in all, a one-time quickie read!
Sangita is a widow with a little son whose mean husband dies in a drunken bike accident. She picks up the pieces and starts living with her parents, but her parents are orthodox about widowhood to the point of malice against Sangita. Gautam meets Sangita at the hospital where she works and instantly falls in love with her. Sangita reciprocates the feeling, but she’s bogged down by her vile parents and her own inhibitions against physical intimacy. The story unfolds how these two obstacles are overcome.
Since the book begins with a happy ending, it was impossible to expect anything else from the story. The ups and downs, the possible problems, were all anticipated by the established behaviours of Sangita’s parents and her own inhibitions after a disastrous marriage.
Gautam’s character did not endear himself to me. His anger at Sangita in the initial days of their relationship was unjustified and demanding. Though he invoked trust and charisma, I couldn’t imagine myself being able to talk to him without him snarling back at me. Slightly self-centred, and unthinking of others’ circumstances. Also, his love for Sangita was an intention to possess, irrespective of how Sangita felt. Sometimes I found myself thinking if the author had moulded Gautam into a typical male character as she was not sure how men react in certain situations. Even a “forward” woman like me found it difficult to accept that Gautam expected physical passion from Sangita within two days of being acquainted. But maybe we can blame his American upbringing for that? However, he improved once he heard the story of Sangita’s first marriage, and turned into a perfectly accommodating person.
Sangita’s character, on the other hand, was very sympathisable. I could totally understand her fears and the situation. Her brother Raghavan and his wife Rekha, the ones who support Sangita and Gautam’s relationship, are also likeable characters. Sandeep, Sandita’s son is a perspicacious child and one feels glad that Sangita has such a good son. Even the small character of Rakesh, Sangita’s second brother, is believable. However, her parents are orthodoxy personified. Which is okay, believable. But the way their approval was obtained for Gautam and Sangita’s marriage was quite unbelievable. I know some such orthodox parents, but I know for sure that they wouldn’t have agreed to the method Gopal and Radha chose. To know what that is, go read the book!
The writing is uncomplicated and the narrative straightforward. There are also erotic descriptions for those who care for it. All in all, a one-time quickie read!
February 17, 2017
Meet Sangita, the head of a NGO that works towards the betterment of abused and homeless women. At a glance, she is a smart, intelligent and successful lady who seems to have her life under control. But we all know that nothing as it seems on the surface and Sangita’s life is no different. She has had a difficult and tremulous life. All Sangita needed was Gautam to walk into her life.
Sangita is a character who I wish reflected more women in our society. She is strong and even idealistic to a point. She knows what is right and doesn’t hesitate to fight for it no matter how great the opposition is. Gautam on the other hand feels like what an ‘ideal’ man should be like. Unfortunately they mostly seem to reside in the fictional world and very few can be spotted in the real life. He is caring and very supportive. He knows how to respect women and it doesn’t hurt that he is good looking too.
One thing that I strongly feel is that those days are gone when a person (whether a man or a woman, but especially woman) ‘needed’ another person to ‘complete’ them. With more and more women coming out of their shells and the restrictive boundaries of the society, they hardly need a man to ‘earn’ their living or change the bulb. Yet it is also undeniable that a supportive partner makes things easier for everyone. That is where this book won me over. Yes, Gautam played a big part in how Sangita fought for what she wanted and he supported her all the way through. But the way the author has built up Sangita’s character, I would like to believe that even without Gautam she would have been okay. She had insecurities and yet she always got things done when needed. Sangita and Gautam were partners in true sense as they counted each other as equals. Also, while to most people this book will appeal as a romance novel, the author has done an admirable job of depicting the social evils that hold back people. Society’s conventional view of what a woman should be like actually restricts our growth and progress. And whether we realize it or not we all fall back to encouraging it further. We need more people like Sangita and Gautam in our society. Then there is Sandeep whose innocence will melt your heart at times. The bond between mother and son is so pure.
The plot is well plotted and executed. It is kind of predictable yet that doesn’t take away from the reading experience. The author’s language narration style is engaging. The best part was perhaps the flawed characters and real emotions that the author has portrayed without over dramatizing or toning it down.
Sangita is a character who I wish reflected more women in our society. She is strong and even idealistic to a point. She knows what is right and doesn’t hesitate to fight for it no matter how great the opposition is. Gautam on the other hand feels like what an ‘ideal’ man should be like. Unfortunately they mostly seem to reside in the fictional world and very few can be spotted in the real life. He is caring and very supportive. He knows how to respect women and it doesn’t hurt that he is good looking too.
One thing that I strongly feel is that those days are gone when a person (whether a man or a woman, but especially woman) ‘needed’ another person to ‘complete’ them. With more and more women coming out of their shells and the restrictive boundaries of the society, they hardly need a man to ‘earn’ their living or change the bulb. Yet it is also undeniable that a supportive partner makes things easier for everyone. That is where this book won me over. Yes, Gautam played a big part in how Sangita fought for what she wanted and he supported her all the way through. But the way the author has built up Sangita’s character, I would like to believe that even without Gautam she would have been okay. She had insecurities and yet she always got things done when needed. Sangita and Gautam were partners in true sense as they counted each other as equals. Also, while to most people this book will appeal as a romance novel, the author has done an admirable job of depicting the social evils that hold back people. Society’s conventional view of what a woman should be like actually restricts our growth and progress. And whether we realize it or not we all fall back to encouraging it further. We need more people like Sangita and Gautam in our society. Then there is Sandeep whose innocence will melt your heart at times. The bond between mother and son is so pure.
The plot is well plotted and executed. It is kind of predictable yet that doesn’t take away from the reading experience. The author’s language narration style is engaging. The best part was perhaps the flawed characters and real emotions that the author has portrayed without over dramatizing or toning it down.
August 26, 2015
Note : This review was first published in my blog - Book and Ink
There are hardly few fiction books that have a story line set in my city – Chennai/Madras. Most of such books seem to have stereotyped the culture in one way or the other. To me, the city in which the story plays an integral part in setting the tone of the story. The culture of the city when reflected properly makes the story realistic. Thus I was intrigued by what Sundari had to tell about my city. She didn’t disappointment me one bit. The Madras Affair turned out to be a pleasurable and a positive read.
Gautam falls head over heels in love with Sangita when he first meets her in the hospital. Sangita has her own baggage which she has to get rid of to accept Gautam into her life. Shackled by parents who believe in typical orthodox and out dated customs, Sangita finds it extremely difficult to move on from her tormenting past.
The writer Sundari, got all tiny details about my city and its culture totally right and I’m eternally grateful to her for not stereotyping Madras as a city which still lives in the past. She has beautifully shown the progressive mind set of the people on sensitive issues like marital rape and widow re-marriage. While one set of characters don’t even acknowledge marital rape as buse, the other set – mainly the protagonist Gautam, is so progressive and supportive of Sangita’s predicament. The way that the writer, Sundari has woven such high octane topics into a romantic story is simply brilliant. The romance between Gautam and Sangita is frustratingly slow, but that has its own charm and I felt it was very apt for this book. Needless to say, the writing was perfect and the characterization was bang on making the book a very pleasurable read. I drooled over Gautam and had to keep reminding myself that he is after all a fictional character. One more thing that the writer seems to have nailed are the emotions. Every character, be is the protagonists or the secondary characters, emoted so perfectly that I could actually emote with them.
The cover deserves a special mention. Beautiful job with that!
MY SAY: A highly realistic read, sprinkled with sizzling chemistry and charming old world romance.
RATING:
PLOT : 8/10
NARRATION: 9/10
CHARACTERISATION: 8/10
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 1/10 (Lower the better)
OVERALL RATING: 9/10
There are hardly few fiction books that have a story line set in my city – Chennai/Madras. Most of such books seem to have stereotyped the culture in one way or the other. To me, the city in which the story plays an integral part in setting the tone of the story. The culture of the city when reflected properly makes the story realistic. Thus I was intrigued by what Sundari had to tell about my city. She didn’t disappointment me one bit. The Madras Affair turned out to be a pleasurable and a positive read.
Gautam falls head over heels in love with Sangita when he first meets her in the hospital. Sangita has her own baggage which she has to get rid of to accept Gautam into her life. Shackled by parents who believe in typical orthodox and out dated customs, Sangita finds it extremely difficult to move on from her tormenting past.
The writer Sundari, got all tiny details about my city and its culture totally right and I’m eternally grateful to her for not stereotyping Madras as a city which still lives in the past. She has beautifully shown the progressive mind set of the people on sensitive issues like marital rape and widow re-marriage. While one set of characters don’t even acknowledge marital rape as buse, the other set – mainly the protagonist Gautam, is so progressive and supportive of Sangita’s predicament. The way that the writer, Sundari has woven such high octane topics into a romantic story is simply brilliant. The romance between Gautam and Sangita is frustratingly slow, but that has its own charm and I felt it was very apt for this book. Needless to say, the writing was perfect and the characterization was bang on making the book a very pleasurable read. I drooled over Gautam and had to keep reminding myself that he is after all a fictional character. One more thing that the writer seems to have nailed are the emotions. Every character, be is the protagonists or the secondary characters, emoted so perfectly that I could actually emote with them.
The cover deserves a special mention. Beautiful job with that!
MY SAY: A highly realistic read, sprinkled with sizzling chemistry and charming old world romance.
RATING:
PLOT : 8/10
NARRATION: 9/10
CHARACTERISATION: 8/10
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 1/10 (Lower the better)
OVERALL RATING: 9/10
August 26, 2015
The Madras Affair came to me when it was Sangita's Dilemma and I am thankful to Sundari Venkatraman for giving me a chance to beta-read this scintillating, sensual, and sensible book.
Like all of Sundari's books, this one isn't just a passionate romance but also carries a strong social message. And like all her books, Sundari brings out the evils of society without being preachy.
The story brings forth the plight of a woman abused not just physically but also mentally, emotionally. As a society, our speed in being judgemental, more so of women, knows no bounds. Seldom do we stand and think about the victim. The story shows how Sangita suffers and loses her courage to fight, because the society doesn't feel that to be right.
Enter Gautam, the handsome, suave, and blue-eyed hero, who manages to steal not just Sangita's heart but the readers' too! He is the quintessential knight-in-the-shining-armour for Sangita and Sandeep, who shows her and the world that Sangita has every right to be happy.
What I liked the most about how Sangita's character is written is the way her vulnerabilities have been shown. A woman who goes through so much is bound to be filled with trepidation. Sangita's character is very relatable, because she may not come across as a woman ready to lift up a sword and fight for all evils done to her but she doesn't even come across as a woman who is meek and has no self-esteem. Gautam is that dose of hope, of faith, of a dream that makes you believe in a happily-ever-after. Although the secondary characters have a very predictable relationship with the protagonists, I still found the story to be a definite page-turner.
As a beta reader, I had the chance to read this story before it took its final form. And I must say that I'm impressed and happy by how Sundari has retained her ideas while making sure that she incorporates my feedback. There were language edits that I had pointed out as a part of my review then, and I see that Sundari has diligently corrected those.
There are some stories that you want to go back to again and again and again. The Madras Affair is definitely on that list for me!!!
Disclaimer: I got this book from the author for a beta-read and my review is my honest opinion about the book.
Like all of Sundari's books, this one isn't just a passionate romance but also carries a strong social message. And like all her books, Sundari brings out the evils of society without being preachy.
The story brings forth the plight of a woman abused not just physically but also mentally, emotionally. As a society, our speed in being judgemental, more so of women, knows no bounds. Seldom do we stand and think about the victim. The story shows how Sangita suffers and loses her courage to fight, because the society doesn't feel that to be right.
Enter Gautam, the handsome, suave, and blue-eyed hero, who manages to steal not just Sangita's heart but the readers' too! He is the quintessential knight-in-the-shining-armour for Sangita and Sandeep, who shows her and the world that Sangita has every right to be happy.
What I liked the most about how Sangita's character is written is the way her vulnerabilities have been shown. A woman who goes through so much is bound to be filled with trepidation. Sangita's character is very relatable, because she may not come across as a woman ready to lift up a sword and fight for all evils done to her but she doesn't even come across as a woman who is meek and has no self-esteem. Gautam is that dose of hope, of faith, of a dream that makes you believe in a happily-ever-after. Although the secondary characters have a very predictable relationship with the protagonists, I still found the story to be a definite page-turner.
As a beta reader, I had the chance to read this story before it took its final form. And I must say that I'm impressed and happy by how Sundari has retained her ideas while making sure that she incorporates my feedback. There were language edits that I had pointed out as a part of my review then, and I see that Sundari has diligently corrected those.
There are some stories that you want to go back to again and again and again. The Madras Affair is definitely on that list for me!!!
Disclaimer: I got this book from the author for a beta-read and my review is my honest opinion about the book.
March 16, 2016
I have literally grown up on a staple of romantic novels, hungrily chomping on anything and everything that has love printed across it, whether in bold prints or fine! Reading ‘The Madras Affair’, I realized that I will always be a sucker for romance and that one can never be too old for it…Ever! This ooh-so-endearing book by Sundari Venkatraman had me in ‘hook-line-and-sinker’ from the word go!
Whether it was the nubile Sangita and her 'will-she-won’t-she' moments, or the sexy Gautam causing you to shamelessly salivate over his blue eyes and hot body (much to the amusement and/or suspicions of your hubby hovering around!) or the steamy scenes towards the end that almost sets your senses (and body) on fire, The Madras Affair scores on all fronts! The story is so real, the settings are so live and the characters are so believable that it is hard to stand aside and take a third person view of the story. Surprisingly, you will find yourself becoming a part of the story as it unfolds, you'd perhaps assume the form of Sangita or Gautam or any of the several other characters binding the story together.
What I also liked about the story is that it doesn’t rush you through the delicate affair; rather it takes its own pace and form- allowing the characters to guide the story forward. I also like the way the characters interact with each other and the beautiful way the author has brought them together. For instance, there’s a scene where Gautam meets Sangita’s son Sandeep for the first time. That scene is so vivid and rife with emotions that it brought tears to my eyes just reading it! There are several such delicately handled scenes that manage to make you smile, or bring a lump to your throat or create a palpable sensual excitement as you read through.
If you are die-hard romantic, this is one book you must pick, and allow yourself to curl up on the couch, on a cold winter night, covered in a warm comforter, with a hot cuppa in one hand and the book in another! Bliss!
Whether it was the nubile Sangita and her 'will-she-won’t-she' moments, or the sexy Gautam causing you to shamelessly salivate over his blue eyes and hot body (much to the amusement and/or suspicions of your hubby hovering around!) or the steamy scenes towards the end that almost sets your senses (and body) on fire, The Madras Affair scores on all fronts! The story is so real, the settings are so live and the characters are so believable that it is hard to stand aside and take a third person view of the story. Surprisingly, you will find yourself becoming a part of the story as it unfolds, you'd perhaps assume the form of Sangita or Gautam or any of the several other characters binding the story together.
What I also liked about the story is that it doesn’t rush you through the delicate affair; rather it takes its own pace and form- allowing the characters to guide the story forward. I also like the way the characters interact with each other and the beautiful way the author has brought them together. For instance, there’s a scene where Gautam meets Sangita’s son Sandeep for the first time. That scene is so vivid and rife with emotions that it brought tears to my eyes just reading it! There are several such delicately handled scenes that manage to make you smile, or bring a lump to your throat or create a palpable sensual excitement as you read through.
If you are die-hard romantic, this is one book you must pick, and allow yourself to curl up on the couch, on a cold winter night, covered in a warm comforter, with a hot cuppa in one hand and the book in another! Bliss!
January 6, 2016
The Madras Affair is a book written by Sundari Venkatraman for romance lovers like U.S.The Madras Affair is a great book to read .Author Sundari has weaved the plot and characters like a weaver weaving a woollen cloth by using some innovating designs which gives a different look all together.Why I used woollen cloth hear because it is season celebration and during this season we all feel chilly here ;-) …So as I was saying the plot and characters are weaved like weaver weaving a woollen cloth , Sundari here uses some real issues like widow remarriage in a very effective way while building a plot .TMA (short form of The Madras Affair) is awesome book to read and is very relate able .But one thing , I did not like is… Gautam ‘s early entry in this book and his entry felt too fikaa(ordinary for me ).
Sundari I wish you could have done a better job while introducing Gautam ‘s Character and by giving Sangita a little more than usual time to woo Gautam . In this book of yours I felt only Gautam doing the woo part and not Sangita .In some areas ….I could see Sangita expressing her love for him .But other wise It was only Gautam who tries to woo her in different way .Which I felt a little perturbed about it , Even though external factors were not conducive for Sangita but ….she could have tried a little more …. harder to express her love for him .
As Love is mutual affair and not one sided .
I got the ARC of this book through the author via The Book Club .
Thanks Rubina Ramesh for the same
Sundari I wish you could have done a better job while introducing Gautam ‘s Character and by giving Sangita a little more than usual time to woo Gautam . In this book of yours I felt only Gautam doing the woo part and not Sangita .In some areas ….I could see Sangita expressing her love for him .But other wise It was only Gautam who tries to woo her in different way .Which I felt a little perturbed about it , Even though external factors were not conducive for Sangita but ….she could have tried a little more …. harder to express her love for him .
As Love is mutual affair and not one sided .
I got the ARC of this book through the author via The Book Club .
Thanks Rubina Ramesh for the same
February 3, 2016
Originally Published on www.shanayatales.com
This is the very first book by Sundari that I have read, but I have followed her blog for quite some time now, so I am familiar with her writing style. Which is why, going in I knew I could expect a well-crafted story and pretty clean, error free language, and I wasn’t disappointed at all.
The Madras Affair is a book that hits all the right notes, and gives you everything that you would expect from a romance, and then some. The characters are very real and relatable, the scenes are well written, and the love story itself stands out brightly.
The plot of the book revolves around sweet, innocent, yet fiery, Sangita and the very charming blue eyed Gautam.
Sangita is a widowed single mother to a five year old, who hails from an extremely orthodox South Indian family, and has to battle the old fashioned customs and traditions prevalent in the Indian society on a daily basis. Enter Gautam, her very own knight in shining armour, and she is filled with renewed hopes and dreams for the future. But things are not that simple for them. They have an uphill battle against society, and more importantly Sangita’s own insecurities. Would their love survive the struggle or would it crumble under the strain? That is the premise of this book. Read More
This is the very first book by Sundari that I have read, but I have followed her blog for quite some time now, so I am familiar with her writing style. Which is why, going in I knew I could expect a well-crafted story and pretty clean, error free language, and I wasn’t disappointed at all.
The Madras Affair is a book that hits all the right notes, and gives you everything that you would expect from a romance, and then some. The characters are very real and relatable, the scenes are well written, and the love story itself stands out brightly.
The plot of the book revolves around sweet, innocent, yet fiery, Sangita and the very charming blue eyed Gautam.
Sangita is a widowed single mother to a five year old, who hails from an extremely orthodox South Indian family, and has to battle the old fashioned customs and traditions prevalent in the Indian society on a daily basis. Enter Gautam, her very own knight in shining armour, and she is filled with renewed hopes and dreams for the future. But things are not that simple for them. They have an uphill battle against society, and more importantly Sangita’s own insecurities. Would their love survive the struggle or would it crumble under the strain? That is the premise of this book. Read More
January 4, 2016
STORYLINE: Interesting. A simple yet strong one, this story of Sangita and Gautam Sinclair is not all about falling head over heels for someone. Instead it conveys something more. It is a take on society, its aversion towards the hapless widow, false egos, selfish motives, outdated rituals, false notions, etc……… It is also a call to the victimized to stand up for their rights and enjoy life and love.
The story would have been another run-of-the-mill romance, another Mills & Boons book if the author had not very deftly interwoven the darker side of society into the story.
The ending was of course predictable but then I liked it. After the engrossing read if it were anything else it would surely be a disappointment.
CHARACTERIZATION: The characters both the main and secondary or supporting ones are well-developed with all their imperfections. While one can’t help loving the cute Sandeep, one also can’t help hating Radha and her vile tongue. In fact one actually lives the characters as the scenes unfold. Hence it’s easy to empathize with them or hate them for their thoughts, their words their actions.
LANGUAGE: Simple, crisp and lucid. Yes there are a few typos here and there that need to be set right. But that’s no major hurdle to enjoying the book.
PACE: Perfect. It’s neither too slow nor too fast.
STYLE: Full marks to the Author’s narration style. It made the story not only interesting but engaging too.
The story would have been another run-of-the-mill romance, another Mills & Boons book if the author had not very deftly interwoven the darker side of society into the story.
The ending was of course predictable but then I liked it. After the engrossing read if it were anything else it would surely be a disappointment.
CHARACTERIZATION: The characters both the main and secondary or supporting ones are well-developed with all their imperfections. While one can’t help loving the cute Sandeep, one also can’t help hating Radha and her vile tongue. In fact one actually lives the characters as the scenes unfold. Hence it’s easy to empathize with them or hate them for their thoughts, their words their actions.
LANGUAGE: Simple, crisp and lucid. Yes there are a few typos here and there that need to be set right. But that’s no major hurdle to enjoying the book.
PACE: Perfect. It’s neither too slow nor too fast.
STYLE: Full marks to the Author’s narration style. It made the story not only interesting but engaging too.
March 2, 2016
What I loved about The Madras Affair is the way it’s written. The book highlights the suffering of Sangita who is ignored by her parents as she is a girl and the mental agony she undergoes as a widow. The way Sundari has woven the story of Sangita, and shown two sides of society is highlight of the story. Gautam’s character too is loveable and it’s like every girl’s dream come true. While reading the book you fall in love with Gautam, feel sorry for Sangita and her plight, feel angry on Sangita’s parents for their orthodox and partial behaviour & feel grateful to Gautam’s grandparents for being so broad minded. Sundari has woven character’s which you generally find in typical South-Indian village.
While reading you feel you know the characters as they are portrayed with a realistic touch. In short anyone will love to read Madras affair. Simple yet heartwarming love story of Sangita and Gauta
While reading you feel you know the characters as they are portrayed with a realistic touch. In short anyone will love to read Madras affair. Simple yet heartwarming love story of Sangita and Gauta
January 28, 2016
This is one book that I am going to re-read very soon. I have to, *have to*, return to the world of Sangeetha and Gautam created by Sundari.
The character sketch is so vivid that they stay with you long after the last page has been turned, the last word read.
Sundari narrates the story as a flashback, flitting between the present and the past. The book tells you the story of Sangeetha who is a young widow facing the wrath of being branded unlucky by the society and even by her own family. An unlucky soul deprived of love everywhere.
Gautam Sinclair enters her life and infuses it with hope and new dreams. But will she be able to break down the strong wall of hatred against men that her first marriage had rendered her with?
Will Gautam succeed to win her?
Read the book to know more.
It is worth every single moment that you spend reading it.
The character sketch is so vivid that they stay with you long after the last page has been turned, the last word read.
Sundari narrates the story as a flashback, flitting between the present and the past. The book tells you the story of Sangeetha who is a young widow facing the wrath of being branded unlucky by the society and even by her own family. An unlucky soul deprived of love everywhere.
Gautam Sinclair enters her life and infuses it with hope and new dreams. But will she be able to break down the strong wall of hatred against men that her first marriage had rendered her with?
Will Gautam succeed to win her?
Read the book to know more.
It is worth every single moment that you spend reading it.
September 21, 2015
Sundari Venkatraman weaves tales of love, family, relationships and sets them in a cultural milieu that every Indian reader can relate to. But the best part of Sundari's writing is that her stories have a universal quality about them, making readers care for the protagonists even if they are totally clueless about Indian customs and traditions.
The Madras Affair touches on the sensitive subject of widow remarriage and the taboos surrounding it even today. It is the story of how two families (with opposing world views) deal with the issue. It is also the story of a young woman (Sangita) who overcomes the stigma of widowhood and an abusive marital relationship to transform into a strong woman with the help of a man (Gautam) who proves his love by standing up for her. The story of how Gautam woos and wins over Sangita is a lovely, heartwarming read.
The Madras Affair touches on the sensitive subject of widow remarriage and the taboos surrounding it even today. It is the story of how two families (with opposing world views) deal with the issue. It is also the story of a young woman (Sangita) who overcomes the stigma of widowhood and an abusive marital relationship to transform into a strong woman with the help of a man (Gautam) who proves his love by standing up for her. The story of how Gautam woos and wins over Sangita is a lovely, heartwarming read.
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