Author: Madhulika
Liddle
Publisher: Speaking
Tiger
For the Love of Apricots is primarily based on two
protagonists—forty-year-old divorcee Nandini, who lives in Mukteshwar, having
established a pickle cooperative there, and Vikas Joshi, who also lives in the
hill town, having recently acquired an apricot orchard. The story delves into
their interesting interactions, painful pasts, and the possibility of second
chances at love.
The novel grips you from the get-go, and the narrative flows at
a beautiful, languid pace—perfect for the story. The mild twists and turns are
placed appropriately and keep you engaged in the story. There is also a
sprinkling of humor throughout, which made me smile.
But the characters are what keep you glued to the story. Nandini
and Vikas are exceptional characters. They are lovable and worth rooting for.
The character development is brilliant, with sufficient backstories to flesh
out the characters. The only minor nitpick is that Vikas’s father is hardly
mentioned in the book. Considering he is alive, maybe some interaction and/or
thought about his father should have been there. That would have been the icing
on the cake.
I could relate to every sentiment experienced by the characters,
as the feelings were natural and realistic. Despite the strength of the
characters, they have their share of vulnerabilities and idiosyncrasies, which
again reinforces the relatability factor and makes you feel for them.
As expected from a writer of Ms. Liddle’s caliber, the language
is excellent—lucid and unornamented yet garnished with the appropriate wordplay
at the right places. The grammar and punctuation are immaculate, as always.
The descriptions of the scenery are delectable, painting a vivid
picture of the lush landscapes of Mukteshwar, making me want to visit the
beautiful hill town. Moreover, the descriptions of food are luscious, making my
mouth water. I want to taste the apricot jam studded with kernels, smeared on
crisp buttered toast.
The ending is perfect, and the emotional punches are so
beautifully executed that I teared up a couple of times. All loose ends are
tied up immaculately, providing a wholesome, unforgettable experience.
This novel proves that Ms. Liddle, an award-winning writer
specializing in historical fiction, is equally proficient at contemporary
fiction.
