Book Review: Give Your Heart a Break by Anuj Tiwari

Give Your Heart a Break
Author: Anuj Tiwari
Publisher: Rupa Publishers
Rating: 3/5

“She could just pack up and leave, but she does not visualize what’s beyond ahead.”
― Núria Añó

Life happens to us when we are busy making plans while looking at the world with rose-tinted glasses. ‘Give Your Heart a Break’ is a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, strength and courage. The story focuses on one of the pressing issues prevalent in today’s society- domestic violence in the name of marriage. With a succinct plot and heartfelt narrative, the author traces the path of a failed marriage and explores the plethora of problems that come along the way.

Addya, Agastya and Arjun are like the three strong pillars of the family who will not crumble to the pressure even if they are at their weakest. But when Addya decides to get tied in the nuptial bond, things don’t turn out in her favour. Bearing the brunt of the traditions, even though she falls in love with the person chosen by her family, that love is like a nine-day wonder. Odds turn against her when her knight in the shining armour starts showing his true colours. Addya confides in Arjun as she fears that Agastya will further escalate the problems at her end. A brother’s anger, after all! And Arjun, even though he is their cousin, decides to help in the way he thinks is best.

Though I have read many books based on a similar theme, I haven’t come across anything that elucidates the bond shared between siblings. Agastya’s role is something to look forward to. He understands everything but waits for the right moment to let the words escape his mouth. Very thoughtful and mature in his approach towards life, his character outshines the others. Addya’s character undergoes an expected transformation and ostensibly that’s why her character doesn’t leave a lasting impact. Nevertheless, all characters have been developed gradually and this makes them emulate the actions of people in real life.

There can be different themes that this story highlights like ‘Blood is thicker than water’, ‘The most courageous act is still to think for yourself- Aloud’ and that is the striking feature of this work. It encourages everyone to push out the self-limiting beliefs and allow the entry of positive energy into their life.

Coming to the typesetting, font and editing- there are a few printing errors which might have been overlooked. The writing is simple and might not be appreciated by the logophiles. Nevertheless, this story is a story of hope. It teaches us to look for the silver lining in a dark cloud and keep going!

Best wishes to the author!

Buying Link: Amazon