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He FIXED the MATCH she fixed him
Shreya – I'm a highly qualified Delhi girl earning an enviable salary. My parents are having a tough time finding a suitable groom for me. However, recently they have a proposal from this very interesting guy from Mumbai. I almost get mesmerised when he starts talking to me. I think I like him very much.
Kunal – I'm owner of a textile company in Mumbai. My Mom wants me to get married. Again. She has recently suggested a suitable girl from Delhi. What my Mom doesn't know is that I've met Shreya before once in my life and I've been looking for her ever since. I have a vendetta to settle.
]The author takes you along on a journey via roads of revenge, agony, remorse, attraction, titillation, tantalisation and romance. Do Shreya and Kunal make it, or do they fall prey to their past?
Kunal – I'm owner of a textile company in Mumbai. My Mom wants me to get married. Again. She has recently suggested a suitable girl from Delhi. What my Mom doesn't know is that I've met Shreya before once in my life and I've been looking for her ever since. I have a vendetta to settle.
]The author takes you along on a journey via roads of revenge, agony, remorse, attraction, titillation, tantalisation and romance. Do Shreya and Kunal make it, or do they fall prey to their past?
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2014
59 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 8, 2015
This book gave me company while I visited my native last week and I enjoyed every bit of it.
What I loved most was that the storytelling is endearing.All the characters stay true to their set frames and hence becomes memorable. Kunal, Shreya, their mothers, Vineet and even the minor characters have been portrayed life like.
Typical matrimonial dramas, groom/bride hunts that are the norm in India is described hilariously. And yes, I was angry that Kunal wanted Shreya to undergo a Lasik surgery to get rid of her glasses before marriage. I expected Shreya to raise a hue and cry, but she didn't. But dear reader, there was a reason why Kunal needed Shreya to undergo Lasik. The epic prankster with his intelligence fixes a match that would not have otherwise materialised.
Shreya and Kunal share a bitter past. They have ruined the lives of each other purposefully. And now Kunal has decided to take his revenge. But he had started it all in the first place, right?
As I expected, in fact, wished for, Shreya ended it all and in style.
Read the book to know how the typical Bollywood style couple gets hitched only to face the devil of their own creation, losing their sleep and peace of mind! Karma returns after all!!
A page turner with a real Indian touch. The author has explained many Indian rituals beautifully. Also, the seven marriage vows made me take note of what every north Indian couple promises to each other during the saat-pheras of marriage. It was nice and refreshing to read that.
Hghly recommended.
What I loved most was that the storytelling is endearing.All the characters stay true to their set frames and hence becomes memorable. Kunal, Shreya, their mothers, Vineet and even the minor characters have been portrayed life like.
Typical matrimonial dramas, groom/bride hunts that are the norm in India is described hilariously. And yes, I was angry that Kunal wanted Shreya to undergo a Lasik surgery to get rid of her glasses before marriage. I expected Shreya to raise a hue and cry, but she didn't. But dear reader, there was a reason why Kunal needed Shreya to undergo Lasik. The epic prankster with his intelligence fixes a match that would not have otherwise materialised.
Shreya and Kunal share a bitter past. They have ruined the lives of each other purposefully. And now Kunal has decided to take his revenge. But he had started it all in the first place, right?
As I expected, in fact, wished for, Shreya ended it all and in style.
Read the book to know how the typical Bollywood style couple gets hitched only to face the devil of their own creation, losing their sleep and peace of mind! Karma returns after all!!
A page turner with a real Indian touch. The author has explained many Indian rituals beautifully. Also, the seven marriage vows made me take note of what every north Indian couple promises to each other during the saat-pheras of marriage. It was nice and refreshing to read that.
Hghly recommended.
October 8, 2020
Wow!! I really loved the story. After a long time, I finished a book in a single sitting.I am really impressed by the writing style. It has drama, romance, comedy..A fast paced book. Kudos to the author for writing such fantastic book!
June 14, 2015
Shreya is an independent professional in Delhi. Kunal runs a textile business in Mumbai and had been divorced. Their marriage is fixed by parents and due to reasons best known to author, Shreya never sees Kunal till the marriage day (How in these days of Instagram, Whatsapp and Facebook, this is even possible is something you will never fathom as a reader)
The author does try really hard to bring in twists and turns in every chapter but the story here is wafer thin and too predictable. Just like earlier Karan Johar movies - we have gala receptions, mata ki chowki, karwachauth and all that jazz to fill in pages. Nothing much happens for long duration in the book and we are inundated with one uninteresting character after another. The climax is done to death kind and there is not much effort made to even try and be different. At 280 odd pages, this is way too long and to add to the misery, it is poorly edited with numerous grammatical and spelling mistakes.
I am going with 1.5/5 for Shikha Kumar's debut novel. The book ties up with numerous companies for promotion - happytrips.com, Bharat Matrimony and Scavin Eyewear. One wish same amount of effort was put in writing and editing the book as done in the marketing. The results would have been far more rewarding for the readers.
The author does try really hard to bring in twists and turns in every chapter but the story here is wafer thin and too predictable. Just like earlier Karan Johar movies - we have gala receptions, mata ki chowki, karwachauth and all that jazz to fill in pages. Nothing much happens for long duration in the book and we are inundated with one uninteresting character after another. The climax is done to death kind and there is not much effort made to even try and be different. At 280 odd pages, this is way too long and to add to the misery, it is poorly edited with numerous grammatical and spelling mistakes.
I am going with 1.5/5 for Shikha Kumar's debut novel. The book ties up with numerous companies for promotion - happytrips.com, Bharat Matrimony and Scavin Eyewear. One wish same amount of effort was put in writing and editing the book as done in the marketing. The results would have been far more rewarding for the readers.
July 7, 2018
Beautiful
Journey of Shreya and Kunal was awesome, story was all around true love and sacrifices in a marriage.I liked it
Journey of Shreya and Kunal was awesome, story was all around true love and sacrifices in a marriage.I liked it
October 20, 2015
My take:
Shreya is a girl of marriageable age and like all parents in the world are, her parents are asking her to get married. They are searching a suitable match for their daughter. Their searching process bears fruit and they find Kunal interested in Shreya. This match is arranged through a matrimony site. Things move further and Shreya begins to like Kunal. She agrees to get married to him in spite of her mother’s refusal. Kunal is a divorcee and this fact is not digested well by Shreya’s mother. However, she gives in to Shreya’s happiness and agrees.
Shreya gets married to Kunal only to receive the greatest shock of her life. She had a bad encounter with Kunal who is now seeking revenge. Is Kunal successful at his revenge? How does Shreya manage the situation? Did she fall in love with Kunal? What does future have in store for them?
He fixed the match. She fixed him is a complete package of emotions. It’s a journey from hatred to love, from betrayal to trust, from torturing to caring, from liking to loving. The story is awesome and the narration is simple and touchy. Every chapter you read has some surprise elements which keeps you hooked to the book. The book is a page turner. Kudos to the author for writing such an incredible story.
I, personally, was not a fan of arranged marriages. But reading this book, I don’t think having an arranged marriage will be a bad option. Shikha Ma’am, you made me fall in love with your characters, your story and most importantly, arranged marriages. I feel like I have lived through the story. I wish this book is converted in to a movie soon!
I rate:
Cover: 4/5
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
This book deserves a rating of 4.5/5 stars.
Shreya is a girl of marriageable age and like all parents in the world are, her parents are asking her to get married. They are searching a suitable match for their daughter. Their searching process bears fruit and they find Kunal interested in Shreya. This match is arranged through a matrimony site. Things move further and Shreya begins to like Kunal. She agrees to get married to him in spite of her mother’s refusal. Kunal is a divorcee and this fact is not digested well by Shreya’s mother. However, she gives in to Shreya’s happiness and agrees.
Shreya gets married to Kunal only to receive the greatest shock of her life. She had a bad encounter with Kunal who is now seeking revenge. Is Kunal successful at his revenge? How does Shreya manage the situation? Did she fall in love with Kunal? What does future have in store for them?
He fixed the match. She fixed him is a complete package of emotions. It’s a journey from hatred to love, from betrayal to trust, from torturing to caring, from liking to loving. The story is awesome and the narration is simple and touchy. Every chapter you read has some surprise elements which keeps you hooked to the book. The book is a page turner. Kudos to the author for writing such an incredible story.
I, personally, was not a fan of arranged marriages. But reading this book, I don’t think having an arranged marriage will be a bad option. Shikha Ma’am, you made me fall in love with your characters, your story and most importantly, arranged marriages. I feel like I have lived through the story. I wish this book is converted in to a movie soon!
I rate:
Cover: 4/5
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
This book deserves a rating of 4.5/5 stars.
December 7, 2014
This is an interesting romantic tale of a married couple, who are forced into marriage almost unwillingly. I agree that this happens quite often in the society and how does this story stand different from the others in the genre? It does, because you will never come across such a simple but strong plot and a convincing theme, as this one. Two individuals simply become the pawn in the hands of their respective destinies and come across each other only to dig a deep hole for themselves. You remain engrossed in the story to explore how this un-fateful hole becomes the loving abode and love blossoms. Yes, they fix it! And how? You need to find in your copy.
This is author’s first attempt to try her hands on writing a novel and who would believe so? At least I didn’t. Why? This is because she has put in all the elements of a block buster novel including a strong story with strong characters, which is full of twists running a thrilling chill around your flesh while reading and a sweet smile on your lips, a plot that you will easily relate to because it is a development that we all long for in our lives, to be associated with, a reason of the turmoil to create all the hulla-boo, a guiding instinct that keeps the characters going and an enriching account that leaves you with the thoughts motivating enough to restructure your personal thoughts and outlook towards your un-restful life! Yes, she gives you a shake to see the picture from another angle and inspires you to relive your lives, once again.
Source: https://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/...
This is author’s first attempt to try her hands on writing a novel and who would believe so? At least I didn’t. Why? This is because she has put in all the elements of a block buster novel including a strong story with strong characters, which is full of twists running a thrilling chill around your flesh while reading and a sweet smile on your lips, a plot that you will easily relate to because it is a development that we all long for in our lives, to be associated with, a reason of the turmoil to create all the hulla-boo, a guiding instinct that keeps the characters going and an enriching account that leaves you with the thoughts motivating enough to restructure your personal thoughts and outlook towards your un-restful life! Yes, she gives you a shake to see the picture from another angle and inspires you to relive your lives, once again.
Source: https://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/...
February 22, 2015
From the book cover and blurb, story was clear that we are going to see a couple fight, then eventually they will fall in love with each other and will live happily ever after. I was surprised to see that the storyline was actually the same but the treatment and the plot set was exceptional. The narration grips the reader from it’s first page and never let you wander anywhere else. Shikha’s debut work never looks like the work of a debutant.
Story is about two individuals, Kunal and Shreya, both have encountered before with each other on the sourest day they will ever wish. Revenge takes up their relationship further but in a unique way. Slowly things starts to melt between them but a element of surprise keeps the reader guessing till the end.
There were few elements which I loved in the story. The first being the Seven Vows of Marriage and Kunal’s version of them. I loved the relevance between them. The revenge background was awesomely placed. It was actually a matter to die for. Another thing which I liked was puzzle solving of Kunal regarding his relationship with Shreya. The best which I liked was a phrase from the book, ‘That’s the centre piece of my puzzle. My journey is not to her heart, it’s a journey back to her heart. Sorry Shreya!‘
The only flaw which I felt in the storyline was that it somehow looses it’s grip midway through the book. It would be more crispier if the length of the book was a little shorter by 50 or 60 pages. Other than that, it’s a good read.
FULL REVIEW AT 'THE AUTHOR'S BLOG'.
Story is about two individuals, Kunal and Shreya, both have encountered before with each other on the sourest day they will ever wish. Revenge takes up their relationship further but in a unique way. Slowly things starts to melt between them but a element of surprise keeps the reader guessing till the end.
There were few elements which I loved in the story. The first being the Seven Vows of Marriage and Kunal’s version of them. I loved the relevance between them. The revenge background was awesomely placed. It was actually a matter to die for. Another thing which I liked was puzzle solving of Kunal regarding his relationship with Shreya. The best which I liked was a phrase from the book, ‘That’s the centre piece of my puzzle. My journey is not to her heart, it’s a journey back to her heart. Sorry Shreya!‘
The only flaw which I felt in the storyline was that it somehow looses it’s grip midway through the book. It would be more crispier if the length of the book was a little shorter by 50 or 60 pages. Other than that, it’s a good read.
FULL REVIEW AT 'THE AUTHOR'S BLOG'.
October 5, 2015
A book that you can surely pick up while going on a long journey. A book that will surely connect you in some or the other way, a book that I will cherish for the long long time simply because I truly loved the way Kunal falls in love with Shreya not for her looks and money, not for her education or not for her earning capacity but for the qualities she had. Shreya is a character that won my heart and is surely going to stay in my mind for long long time. Each newly wedded bride desires to get a friend and a supporter like Vineet.
Cover of the book is indeed cute. Blurb of the book makes you feel like there’s nothing more exciting in the book but once you start reading a story, you will be forced to turn pages without taking a break. I bet!
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book written by shikha.
Take a bow lady! Keep Writing!
My rating: 4 out of 5
Read the full review at - https://nehalilalwani.wordpress.com/2...
Cover of the book is indeed cute. Blurb of the book makes you feel like there’s nothing more exciting in the book but once you start reading a story, you will be forced to turn pages without taking a break. I bet!
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book written by shikha.
Take a bow lady! Keep Writing!
My rating: 4 out of 5
Read the full review at - https://nehalilalwani.wordpress.com/2...
November 18, 2014
In plain words, I loved reading the book.
This love story by Shikha Kumarhits the perfect emotional chords and is perfect for a good fall read. The story is fast paced and you would literally flip pages continuously. Once you start reading it, you get so intrigued about what would happen next that you would end up reading the entire book in one go. I did that.
I have reviewed this book in detail on my blog .
And I do recommend this book to everyone of you who would read this review on goodreads. If you're looking forward to read a love story, get this one. NOW!
This love story by Shikha Kumarhits the perfect emotional chords and is perfect for a good fall read. The story is fast paced and you would literally flip pages continuously. Once you start reading it, you get so intrigued about what would happen next that you would end up reading the entire book in one go. I did that.
I have reviewed this book in detail on my blog .
And I do recommend this book to everyone of you who would read this review on goodreads. If you're looking forward to read a love story, get this one. NOW!
June 12, 2020
Amazing Book..
Loved it .. perfect Barjatiya movie book.
Movie can be made out of the book.
Every angel you can think ,has been covered in the story.
The moment you feel ok that’s it there won’t be any surprises as everything is covered an awesome twist comes up.
Must read for all people who loves love story with a twist and angels. perfect for a Bollywood movie
Loved it .. perfect Barjatiya movie book.
Movie can be made out of the book.
Every angel you can think ,has been covered in the story.
The moment you feel ok that’s it there won’t be any surprises as everything is covered an awesome twist comes up.
Must read for all people who loves love story with a twist and angels. perfect for a Bollywood movie
May 7, 2015
This is an exhilarating book that everyone could enjoy.
I just finished This.... I really enjoyed it. I will look forward to the next book.
. Of course, the romance simply is divine.Interesting characters, plot and setting. It is a feel-good book that sometimes makes you smile and Sometimes you'll be emotional.
I just finished This.... I really enjoyed it. I will look forward to the next book.
. Of course, the romance simply is divine.Interesting characters, plot and setting. It is a feel-good book that sometimes makes you smile and Sometimes you'll be emotional.
June 3, 2019
He Fixed the Match, She Fixed Him
Author: Shikha Kumar
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4/5
"SHREYA FIXED KUNAL"
Mahesh and Sadhya are having a tough time finding a suitable match for their highly qualified daughter Shreya Kohli.
The proposal from the Kharbanda's came out of the blue and the knot was tied without a hitch.
Kunal Kharbanda (a.k.a Groom), is a successful textile business tycoon, who is UNSUCCESSFUL single.
Shreya was completely mesmerized when she started talking to Kunal.
Shreya's life turn topsy-turvy when she sees Kunal's face for the first time on their wedding night.
YES..... SAW HIM FIRST TIME!
The story of "He fixed the Match, She fixed him" is about how Shreya's life supervene after marriage because of Kunal?
How past unfolds in front of Shreya, making situations tough for her?
This bollywood style melodrama is a page turner which keeps the reader hooked on. The writing style is simple yet engaging. Over all a good, one-time one-go read.
Author: Shikha Kumar
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4/5
"SHREYA FIXED KUNAL"
Mahesh and Sadhya are having a tough time finding a suitable match for their highly qualified daughter Shreya Kohli.
The proposal from the Kharbanda's came out of the blue and the knot was tied without a hitch.
Kunal Kharbanda (a.k.a Groom), is a successful textile business tycoon, who is UNSUCCESSFUL single.
Shreya was completely mesmerized when she started talking to Kunal.
Shreya's life turn topsy-turvy when she sees Kunal's face for the first time on their wedding night.
YES..... SAW HIM FIRST TIME!
The story of "He fixed the Match, She fixed him" is about how Shreya's life supervene after marriage because of Kunal?
How past unfolds in front of Shreya, making situations tough for her?
This bollywood style melodrama is a page turner which keeps the reader hooked on. The writing style is simple yet engaging. Over all a good, one-time one-go read.
December 11, 2017
actual rating 3.5
This book was a bit of a mixed bag for me. I loved the main female character and all of the side characters and I loved reading from an own voices perspective but I really disliked the romantic lead and I found the relatiomship and what it was based upon to be intensely unsettling and unbelievable. So while I devoured this book I acknowledge it's flaws. Though I will be reading more from this author because I quite enjoyed her writing style and 99% of the characters!
This book was a bit of a mixed bag for me. I loved the main female character and all of the side characters and I loved reading from an own voices perspective but I really disliked the romantic lead and I found the relatiomship and what it was based upon to be intensely unsettling and unbelievable. So while I devoured this book I acknowledge it's flaws. Though I will be reading more from this author because I quite enjoyed her writing style and 99% of the characters!
June 6, 2017
Beware! Once you start reading this book, you wouldn't want to put it down until you finish it. It's a little over melodramatic, but the unique plot and sequence of events keep you curiously engrossed. Happy reading :)
October 12, 2017
An easy read. Although I felt it's dragging at times, enjoyed the book. Would give 3.5
November 11, 2018
Must read. Beautifully expressed.
March 30, 2015
Why doesn’t Revenge Go Well with a Good Marriage?
If you were given a chance to write a love story, would you ever worry about the formula of a successful love story? A chance being “given” indicates a second individual or source involved with your writing process. Be that source the universal Creative Source. Would you care requesting the Creative Source of all being the formula for a successful romance novel? It seems someone has done just that. In her debut book itself, a contemporary romance titled He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him, Shikha proves that her writing skill is par excellence.
Shikha Kumar has a B-Tech degree in Computer Science from Bharati Vidyapeeth, Delhi. She works as a manager with Tata consultancy services. Having been able to travel a lot, in and out of the country, author Shikha seems to have acquired a skill to get into the psyche of her characters and create dramatic scenes through their interactions. It’s indeed true that journeys teach us great wisdom. In her deep understanding of the human mind, which comes naturally to this young author, she carves for herself a space that is not quite likely available for others who work in the same genre. He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him, could be included under genres such as chick lit and contemporary romance in the Indian Writings in English category.
What fascinates the reader in He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him is the freshness of the narrative voice. Her sentences are straightforward, without any unnecessary ornamentation. This writing technique drives the story right into the heart of the reader, like a spear. In this act a book is truly born, like they say in Reader Response theory. Shreya and Kunal are the protagonists of He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him. Shreya is a “highly qualified Delhi girl”. Kunal is the owner of a textile company in Mumbai.
Imagine a circus where every performer is born and brought up since one’s birth. A world exists outside of their circussy universe. How could the performers, born and brought up inside the rules and regulations of the circus-world embrace the world outside without feeling the corollary guilt that follows any act of breaking away from one’s immediate habitat? Just like this imaginary circus world, every one of us is conditioned to behave and believe in certain ways dictated by our surrounding habitat. For Shreya and Kunal, their culture has a certain plan, much like any other young person living in India—arranged marriage. Like the performers who are born and brought up inside a circus world, Shreya and Kunal play by the rules bestowed upon them by virtue of their birth. Each of them accepts the proposal suggested by their parents. The title, He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him also suggests the conspicuous absence of an authorial presence that holds the key at the centre of the familial power structure. Who decides who must be the “match” is the real question, not who gives the final consent, for the final consent is just a namesake. In the Indian wedding scene, often boy or girl is asked their consent at the cost of risking their elders’ wrath. Therefore, most of them remain silent in the fear of inviting the anger of some distant uncle or aunt.
The story takes a decisive turn when Kunal realizes that he had met Shreya before and that he had a “vendetta to settle” with her. Shreya is clueless of this plan in the inner depth of Kunal’s consciousness. Vengeance penetrates every act of Kunal and finally the inevitable happens.
In a heart-warming twist, Kunal realizes his infinite love for his wife. This forces him to confess his sins in front of his mother. It is surprising how he feels incapable of revealing his heart in front of his wife (or rather ex-wife). This, however, seems a futile act, as he had already created a chasm of separation between his wife and himself. Redemption seems unattainable. Perhaps, it would have been easier for him to go through the revenge if there were no marital bond between the two. He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him poignantly conveys the truth about revenge in a marriage where love has made its entry possible. Author Shikha, through He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him underscores that only love can hold families together and not mere arrangement.
With an arranged marriage in the backdrop, author Shikha demonstrates that love is the key to unlock the door to happiness. Often love stories in India end up on the wedding day. He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him begins there. In this sense, author Shikha Kumar’s debut attempt as an author can be called a trendsetter.
If you were given a chance to write a love story, would you ever worry about the formula of a successful love story? A chance being “given” indicates a second individual or source involved with your writing process. Be that source the universal Creative Source. Would you care requesting the Creative Source of all being the formula for a successful romance novel? It seems someone has done just that. In her debut book itself, a contemporary romance titled He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him, Shikha proves that her writing skill is par excellence.
Shikha Kumar has a B-Tech degree in Computer Science from Bharati Vidyapeeth, Delhi. She works as a manager with Tata consultancy services. Having been able to travel a lot, in and out of the country, author Shikha seems to have acquired a skill to get into the psyche of her characters and create dramatic scenes through their interactions. It’s indeed true that journeys teach us great wisdom. In her deep understanding of the human mind, which comes naturally to this young author, she carves for herself a space that is not quite likely available for others who work in the same genre. He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him, could be included under genres such as chick lit and contemporary romance in the Indian Writings in English category.
What fascinates the reader in He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him is the freshness of the narrative voice. Her sentences are straightforward, without any unnecessary ornamentation. This writing technique drives the story right into the heart of the reader, like a spear. In this act a book is truly born, like they say in Reader Response theory. Shreya and Kunal are the protagonists of He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him. Shreya is a “highly qualified Delhi girl”. Kunal is the owner of a textile company in Mumbai.
Imagine a circus where every performer is born and brought up since one’s birth. A world exists outside of their circussy universe. How could the performers, born and brought up inside the rules and regulations of the circus-world embrace the world outside without feeling the corollary guilt that follows any act of breaking away from one’s immediate habitat? Just like this imaginary circus world, every one of us is conditioned to behave and believe in certain ways dictated by our surrounding habitat. For Shreya and Kunal, their culture has a certain plan, much like any other young person living in India—arranged marriage. Like the performers who are born and brought up inside a circus world, Shreya and Kunal play by the rules bestowed upon them by virtue of their birth. Each of them accepts the proposal suggested by their parents. The title, He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him also suggests the conspicuous absence of an authorial presence that holds the key at the centre of the familial power structure. Who decides who must be the “match” is the real question, not who gives the final consent, for the final consent is just a namesake. In the Indian wedding scene, often boy or girl is asked their consent at the cost of risking their elders’ wrath. Therefore, most of them remain silent in the fear of inviting the anger of some distant uncle or aunt.
The story takes a decisive turn when Kunal realizes that he had met Shreya before and that he had a “vendetta to settle” with her. Shreya is clueless of this plan in the inner depth of Kunal’s consciousness. Vengeance penetrates every act of Kunal and finally the inevitable happens.
In a heart-warming twist, Kunal realizes his infinite love for his wife. This forces him to confess his sins in front of his mother. It is surprising how he feels incapable of revealing his heart in front of his wife (or rather ex-wife). This, however, seems a futile act, as he had already created a chasm of separation between his wife and himself. Redemption seems unattainable. Perhaps, it would have been easier for him to go through the revenge if there were no marital bond between the two. He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him poignantly conveys the truth about revenge in a marriage where love has made its entry possible. Author Shikha, through He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him underscores that only love can hold families together and not mere arrangement.
With an arranged marriage in the backdrop, author Shikha demonstrates that love is the key to unlock the door to happiness. Often love stories in India end up on the wedding day. He Fixed the Match She Fixed Him begins there. In this sense, author Shikha Kumar’s debut attempt as an author can be called a trendsetter.
April 14, 2021
Very nice
Beautiful story. Neatly written. Found a clean romantic story after a long time. Enjoyed every part of the story. Very good
Beautiful story. Neatly written. Found a clean romantic story after a long time. Enjoyed every part of the story. Very good
May 21, 2024
Probable my favorite romance fiction in India that has a fantastic story and an even more great character play and fun banter.
June 26, 2020
First of all, this isn't a typical lovey-dovey love story! It is an intriguing read that makes you effortlessly flip pages!
This is a story of twists and turns, where a woman is made a pawn by the very man she marries. It is fast paced and hits you emotionally! This book goes on to narrate the most authentic way of dealing with human relationships.
The book starts with finding a match through the arranged marriage route in this e-age world. It strikes a perfect balance between traditional values and modern outlook. One can relate to the story since beginning and can see resemblances from one’s own life or people around. Every now and then comes the jerk and you are transported to an amazing turn in the story. The novel fills you with a plethora of emotions. It takes you through a journey of suspense, revenge, love, hatred, attraction, agony, repentance, realisation and romance in 300 pages.
I loved the detailing that the author has put into explaining the facts. The plot of the book is well planned and everything is revealed at just the right time! I like thick books, and more even when they get better with each passing page!
An enjoyable, breezy read! Highly recommended.
Full review here: https://intheclassroomoflife.blogspot...
This is a story of twists and turns, where a woman is made a pawn by the very man she marries. It is fast paced and hits you emotionally! This book goes on to narrate the most authentic way of dealing with human relationships.
The book starts with finding a match through the arranged marriage route in this e-age world. It strikes a perfect balance between traditional values and modern outlook. One can relate to the story since beginning and can see resemblances from one’s own life or people around. Every now and then comes the jerk and you are transported to an amazing turn in the story. The novel fills you with a plethora of emotions. It takes you through a journey of suspense, revenge, love, hatred, attraction, agony, repentance, realisation and romance in 300 pages.
I loved the detailing that the author has put into explaining the facts. The plot of the book is well planned and everything is revealed at just the right time! I like thick books, and more even when they get better with each passing page!
An enjoyable, breezy read! Highly recommended.
Full review here: https://intheclassroomoflife.blogspot...
December 15, 2014
In an age when individuals have metamorphosed into non-individuals, thanks to the technological and non-technological advancements; when the healing grace of authentic spirituality is usurped by the divisive politics of the corporate world; and when broken hearts bleed pain in darkness without the relief of compassion, Shikha Kumar’s latest novel He fixed the match she fixed him comes as a real surprise for the readers.
The whole story spins round a highly qualified Delhi-based girl named Shreya Kohli earning an enviable salary. Like any other Indian parent, He fixed the match she fixed himShreya’s parents were getting a bit restless to get her daughter married. However they couldn’t manage to find out a perfect match for her. Neither Shreya looked too interested about all these match-makings. She was rather waiting for the perfect guy in her life and she was never in a hurry. Such a stance of Shreya had to do a lot with her previous relationship with one guy with whom she was emotionally attached for a considerable amount of time before an unwanted break-up which was followed by several sleepless nights.
At the other end Kunal Kharbanda, a Mumbai based businessman, was suffering from the deep pangs of a broken marriage. Like any other concerned Indian mother, Kunal’s mother was also in a pursuit of a girl who would come as a blessing to her son’s life. One fine morning she managed to find out a girl whom she thought could make the perfect match for her son. Kunal, who was somewhat reluctant to get involved emotionally with another person after the broken marriage, found something that made him interested in the thought marrying again.
It did not take much time to make the arrangements for the marriage for both the families were very impressed about the match. And everyone was exceedingly happy regarding the marriage. However, both Kunal and Shreya being humans with a past faced a hard time to make their relationship work. Whether they eventually succeed in taking this relation to the next level or just succumb to their wounded past is the main concern of the novel. And I leave it to the author to take the reader into an enthralling ride into their life.
In the novel He fixed the match she fixed him, there are traits of Thomas Hardy’s theme of chance as the protagonists come across each other quite dramatically. Also the plot is interwoven number of subplots which maintained the pace of the narrative rather than hindering it. Also use of subtle symbols catches the attention of the readers very much. However at times the reader may feel that the novel is a bit too dragged for it could have been brought to an end a bit earlier. Again that would have prevented the author from displaying what fate has in store for each and every person in this world.
So overall, Shikha Kumar’s 284-page paperback is worth a read for it may well serve as a learning guide for people who have lost faith in love.
The whole story spins round a highly qualified Delhi-based girl named Shreya Kohli earning an enviable salary. Like any other Indian parent, He fixed the match she fixed himShreya’s parents were getting a bit restless to get her daughter married. However they couldn’t manage to find out a perfect match for her. Neither Shreya looked too interested about all these match-makings. She was rather waiting for the perfect guy in her life and she was never in a hurry. Such a stance of Shreya had to do a lot with her previous relationship with one guy with whom she was emotionally attached for a considerable amount of time before an unwanted break-up which was followed by several sleepless nights.
At the other end Kunal Kharbanda, a Mumbai based businessman, was suffering from the deep pangs of a broken marriage. Like any other concerned Indian mother, Kunal’s mother was also in a pursuit of a girl who would come as a blessing to her son’s life. One fine morning she managed to find out a girl whom she thought could make the perfect match for her son. Kunal, who was somewhat reluctant to get involved emotionally with another person after the broken marriage, found something that made him interested in the thought marrying again.
It did not take much time to make the arrangements for the marriage for both the families were very impressed about the match. And everyone was exceedingly happy regarding the marriage. However, both Kunal and Shreya being humans with a past faced a hard time to make their relationship work. Whether they eventually succeed in taking this relation to the next level or just succumb to their wounded past is the main concern of the novel. And I leave it to the author to take the reader into an enthralling ride into their life.
In the novel He fixed the match she fixed him, there are traits of Thomas Hardy’s theme of chance as the protagonists come across each other quite dramatically. Also the plot is interwoven number of subplots which maintained the pace of the narrative rather than hindering it. Also use of subtle symbols catches the attention of the readers very much. However at times the reader may feel that the novel is a bit too dragged for it could have been brought to an end a bit earlier. Again that would have prevented the author from displaying what fate has in store for each and every person in this world.
So overall, Shikha Kumar’s 284-page paperback is worth a read for it may well serve as a learning guide for people who have lost faith in love.
May 15, 2015
Are marriages made in heaven?
Everytime a girl is born, the first thought that crosses a mother's mind is that will she get married or will she be happy after marriage? Sandhya and Mahesh thought the same thing when Shreya was born. But Shreya had a past and even with her educational background they could not find a groom for her.
Marriage – the all and end all of our society.
So when one day out of the blue, the Kholis get a call from the Kharbandas, asking for Shreya's hand in marriage – there was no dearth of happiness in Shreya's household.
Girls as a commodity.
Recently, I was watching some old flick in the Netflix, when a blind girl was asked to sing and dance in front of the prospective groom and his parents, I felt like banging my head on the TV. But that would have been a bit expensive, so I satisfied myself by switching off the television. So I was dreading the scene, when the girl was supposed to meet the boy, But, the treatment of this whole boy-meets-girl was done with great respect and never was the girl put up as a commodity. As a reader and a woman I appreciate that.
When past overshadows the present.
Both Shreya and Kunal had a past. A past which was intermingled and had created a very unusual present for them. It is here, where as the reader I started getting lost. To give the writer her due credit, I must say she has beautifully woven the past and present. But there is one major flaw in the story. Even when Shreya comes to know what Kunal was all about – why did she keep her mouth shut? Was she going through a Pati Parameswaran syndrome? And even if she is, why did not Kunal realize it even once that he is the one who had started the game? Shreya has not been portrayed as a village belle. Highly educated and very well-developed business acumen endowed personality should not be given this characteristic trait where she tolerates every nonsense metted out to her by a husband.
Is love this blind?
There was one part in the story, a very small part, when the guy asks the girl to undergo an eye surgery so that she doesn't have to wear specs again. In fact, he is very insistent about it and in many places, in the story, the appearance of the girl has been given a different shade of importance. I can understand the parents being worried that the guy might reject her on the basis of her looks. I can even understand a guy quietly pointing out that he does not like his wife wearing spectacles but what I cannot understand was when a highly educated girl accepts this condition meekly and even undergoes the surgery. What did I miss here? Isn't our society past this stage? If the author, would have slightly shifted away from physical beauty concept I would have given the story of five-star.
Read the full review @
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2015/03/h...
Everytime a girl is born, the first thought that crosses a mother's mind is that will she get married or will she be happy after marriage? Sandhya and Mahesh thought the same thing when Shreya was born. But Shreya had a past and even with her educational background they could not find a groom for her.
Marriage – the all and end all of our society.
So when one day out of the blue, the Kholis get a call from the Kharbandas, asking for Shreya's hand in marriage – there was no dearth of happiness in Shreya's household.
Girls as a commodity.
Recently, I was watching some old flick in the Netflix, when a blind girl was asked to sing and dance in front of the prospective groom and his parents, I felt like banging my head on the TV. But that would have been a bit expensive, so I satisfied myself by switching off the television. So I was dreading the scene, when the girl was supposed to meet the boy, But, the treatment of this whole boy-meets-girl was done with great respect and never was the girl put up as a commodity. As a reader and a woman I appreciate that.
When past overshadows the present.
Both Shreya and Kunal had a past. A past which was intermingled and had created a very unusual present for them. It is here, where as the reader I started getting lost. To give the writer her due credit, I must say she has beautifully woven the past and present. But there is one major flaw in the story. Even when Shreya comes to know what Kunal was all about – why did she keep her mouth shut? Was she going through a Pati Parameswaran syndrome? And even if she is, why did not Kunal realize it even once that he is the one who had started the game? Shreya has not been portrayed as a village belle. Highly educated and very well-developed business acumen endowed personality should not be given this characteristic trait where she tolerates every nonsense metted out to her by a husband.
Is love this blind?
There was one part in the story, a very small part, when the guy asks the girl to undergo an eye surgery so that she doesn't have to wear specs again. In fact, he is very insistent about it and in many places, in the story, the appearance of the girl has been given a different shade of importance. I can understand the parents being worried that the guy might reject her on the basis of her looks. I can even understand a guy quietly pointing out that he does not like his wife wearing spectacles but what I cannot understand was when a highly educated girl accepts this condition meekly and even undergoes the surgery. What did I miss here? Isn't our society past this stage? If the author, would have slightly shifted away from physical beauty concept I would have given the story of five-star.
Read the full review @
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2015/03/h...
November 19, 2015
A Stunning and Gripping tale of two hearts.
This debut novel of Sikha would let you turning the pages to satisfy your thirst to read more. The story sheds light into the fascinating and entertaining world of Indian Marriage system and customs.
To be precise, it's about Shreya and Kunal. Both of them share a bitter past. Both hate each other like hell. They can go to any extent to punish each other. And yet, they fall for each other. That's their not-so-romantic story which would make you stick to your seat biting your nails, trust me.
Author has developed an iron-willed character in Shreya to face all problems with smile and face them with confidence and courage. Shreya's character would definitely win your heart while she would fight all alone with the known internal storm and unknown outer world of Family, Job, and the creator of all this painful life- her own husband, Kunal.
But they say, God has his own ways of connecting people. Yesterday HATERS turn into LOVERS. Everything falls into place as the story unfolds. A very impressive and unique plot. Hats off to Author!
A score of beautiful messages also pop out from the book. The answer to Hatred is not Hatred but Love. It's is the eternal Love which could do miracles. All is needed is Faith and Patience.
In short, "He fixed the match she fixed him" is a complete out of box tea-idea blend with movie masala poured into one cup. From Karma theory to Courageous concept, story moves with a pace of entertaining film.
If your mood is romantic and crave for some fun, this remarkable story would do some magic. Don't think, grab it NOW.
This debut novel of Sikha would let you turning the pages to satisfy your thirst to read more. The story sheds light into the fascinating and entertaining world of Indian Marriage system and customs.
To be precise, it's about Shreya and Kunal. Both of them share a bitter past. Both hate each other like hell. They can go to any extent to punish each other. And yet, they fall for each other. That's their not-so-romantic story which would make you stick to your seat biting your nails, trust me.
Author has developed an iron-willed character in Shreya to face all problems with smile and face them with confidence and courage. Shreya's character would definitely win your heart while she would fight all alone with the known internal storm and unknown outer world of Family, Job, and the creator of all this painful life- her own husband, Kunal.
But they say, God has his own ways of connecting people. Yesterday HATERS turn into LOVERS. Everything falls into place as the story unfolds. A very impressive and unique plot. Hats off to Author!
A score of beautiful messages also pop out from the book. The answer to Hatred is not Hatred but Love. It's is the eternal Love which could do miracles. All is needed is Faith and Patience.
In short, "He fixed the match she fixed him" is a complete out of box tea-idea blend with movie masala poured into one cup. From Karma theory to Courageous concept, story moves with a pace of entertaining film.
If your mood is romantic and crave for some fun, this remarkable story would do some magic. Don't think, grab it NOW.
February 15, 2015
The effect and impact of past in present and how it results in future is scripted beautifully filled with suspense and emotions. Parents of Shreya are looking for an alliance and are having a tough time in finding a perfect match for her. As their beautiful daughter is extremely qualified with fat package and climbing the ladder of success at an accelerating rate. Finally they find a perfect match with few initial hiccups in the form of Kunal but the future has something else in store for Shreya.
Vengeance is the only objective Kunal has in his mind and marriage life doesn't turn out to be a bed of roses for Shreya; when her past pops into the present. Why revenge and what is the past secret ; I leave it to the readers to discover it.
Shika Kumar, the author has succeeded in making the readers get attached to her characters. The portrayals about the Indian marriages, the concern of a mother, affection of a brother and care of a friend will definitely touch your heart. I also appreciate her for the apt catchy title. She has also touched upon one of the most important topic in the modern era where a variety of roles are being played by women in our day to day life and how important it is to accept the fact with time. The aforementioned fact is an important take away from the book.
Overall, I liked the book which gripped me from start till the end. For all the book lovers who like stories revolving around relationships, trust, Indian marriages and some twists here and there, this book will turn out to be a delight to read.
Vengeance is the only objective Kunal has in his mind and marriage life doesn't turn out to be a bed of roses for Shreya; when her past pops into the present. Why revenge and what is the past secret ; I leave it to the readers to discover it.
Shika Kumar, the author has succeeded in making the readers get attached to her characters. The portrayals about the Indian marriages, the concern of a mother, affection of a brother and care of a friend will definitely touch your heart. I also appreciate her for the apt catchy title. She has also touched upon one of the most important topic in the modern era where a variety of roles are being played by women in our day to day life and how important it is to accept the fact with time. The aforementioned fact is an important take away from the book.
Overall, I liked the book which gripped me from start till the end. For all the book lovers who like stories revolving around relationships, trust, Indian marriages and some twists here and there, this book will turn out to be a delight to read.
January 19, 2015
This is not a story of two love birds chirping together or a story where parents are playing pranks and tricks to their kids. This is a story of turns and twirls, where a shocking event of the past draws an woman into a vortex, where she has to live with dreaded time. She has a task of not only to mend a way of a man, but also to bring a sanity in her man!
Has the man turned into demon, or is the woman a fairy? The story goes on to narrate in most authentic way of dealing with human relationship.
The Author has successfully interwoven the personal relationships, not only restricting to a man and a woman, but to: a family, a larger family and our society. The Author has built the middle level rising of the story to a crescendo of a very satisfying climax.
The reviewer, herein, I, am not going to narrate the story. But may I take the liberty to say that the Author has successfully characterised the main as well as supporting characters. And then I liked mother-in-law very much. What a nice role she plays in all scenes where she comes as a true woman.
The Author has truly maintained the consistency of the main plot. There are no hole and the story flows linearly. Kudos to a debut Author for a flawless work.
This fiction is highly recommended. Pick you copy and enjoy it. It's an unputdownable story, which I finished in two straight sitting. So, now it's your turn.
Has the man turned into demon, or is the woman a fairy? The story goes on to narrate in most authentic way of dealing with human relationship.
The Author has successfully interwoven the personal relationships, not only restricting to a man and a woman, but to: a family, a larger family and our society. The Author has built the middle level rising of the story to a crescendo of a very satisfying climax.
The reviewer, herein, I, am not going to narrate the story. But may I take the liberty to say that the Author has successfully characterised the main as well as supporting characters. And then I liked mother-in-law very much. What a nice role she plays in all scenes where she comes as a true woman.
The Author has truly maintained the consistency of the main plot. There are no hole and the story flows linearly. Kudos to a debut Author for a flawless work.
This fiction is highly recommended. Pick you copy and enjoy it. It's an unputdownable story, which I finished in two straight sitting. So, now it's your turn.
March 21, 2015
Frankly speaking when I got the mail to review this book, I thought it is about cricket match fixing but I was wrong it’s totally different rather it’s a relation fixing. The book is about romance, revenge, agony, attraction, family, Indian traditional marriage etc. The language and word are simple and the flow is fast, also the character buildup and plotting is very strong from the beginning. The theme is totally different from what we generally read about love or hatred. The narration style is a plus point which grips the readers from first page.
The beginning of the revenge was excellently woven but it got vanished within two three chapters, I think it should be bitter. One thing I didn’t like is too much promotion of trip and matrimonial website, once or twice is OK but to promote website through your debut book is tough to grasp. Also the constant use of Scavin Eyewear is bit annoying.
One of the best things which I liked the most is simple yet very meaningful description of Seven Vows of Marriage by the author.
This novel is a good example for today’s generation where divorces are done faster than the time consuming to propose a girl. In one word a good book with meaningful message. So I highly recommend to every couple either in relation, married or have lost faith in love.
The beginning of the revenge was excellently woven but it got vanished within two three chapters, I think it should be bitter. One thing I didn’t like is too much promotion of trip and matrimonial website, once or twice is OK but to promote website through your debut book is tough to grasp. Also the constant use of Scavin Eyewear is bit annoying.
One of the best things which I liked the most is simple yet very meaningful description of Seven Vows of Marriage by the author.
This novel is a good example for today’s generation where divorces are done faster than the time consuming to propose a girl. In one word a good book with meaningful message. So I highly recommend to every couple either in relation, married or have lost faith in love.
January 2, 2015
I think the book has a very cute cover – that of a modern man and woman turned away from each other. They exactly portray Kunal’s and Shreya’s relationship.
The story begins in the typical Indian style – parents of the girl, Shreya in this case, searching for a suitable boy. Mahesh and Sandhya are worried as their daughter is very highly qualified and earning a fantastic salary. So much so that Sandhya gets angry with Shreya for moving on to a better prospect. She is worried that it might become too difficult to find a guy equal to her. Anuradha’s call should have been a relief for Shreya’s parents. But Sandhya’s gut says not. She doesn’t trust Kunal and his mother at all. Her mother’s instincts kick in and she’s afraid that her daughter wouldn’t live a happy life. Shreya and her brother Madhav think otherwise. You need to read the story to find out what happens when Sandhya’s instincts are proved right.
Full review: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in...
The story begins in the typical Indian style – parents of the girl, Shreya in this case, searching for a suitable boy. Mahesh and Sandhya are worried as their daughter is very highly qualified and earning a fantastic salary. So much so that Sandhya gets angry with Shreya for moving on to a better prospect. She is worried that it might become too difficult to find a guy equal to her. Anuradha’s call should have been a relief for Shreya’s parents. But Sandhya’s gut says not. She doesn’t trust Kunal and his mother at all. Her mother’s instincts kick in and she’s afraid that her daughter wouldn’t live a happy life. Shreya and her brother Madhav think otherwise. You need to read the story to find out what happens when Sandhya’s instincts are proved right.
Full review: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in...
January 28, 2015
I was most intrigued by the title. When Shikha Kumar asked if I would like to read it for the purpose of giving an honest review, I jumped at the chance.
I received an ebook copy on New Year's day - a very thoughtful gesture on behalf of the author.
I found it an unconventional tale. Sure, there were the usual ingredients of an Indian novel - pushy matchmakers; romance; family drama; intrigue; jealous ex-wives; intuitive mothers; supportive brothers - yet the author made it different by choosing to go with an interesting plot - convoluted twists and turns made the story engaging.
I enjoyed the sparring between Shreya and Kunal; I loved the grilling Shreya's mother puts Kunal through - it was so believable - that woman is a relentless tiger; the relationship between Shreya and her mother-in-law is delightful and would be a dream come true for most women!
All in all, an enjoyable story.
I received an ebook copy on New Year's day - a very thoughtful gesture on behalf of the author.
I found it an unconventional tale. Sure, there were the usual ingredients of an Indian novel - pushy matchmakers; romance; family drama; intrigue; jealous ex-wives; intuitive mothers; supportive brothers - yet the author made it different by choosing to go with an interesting plot - convoluted twists and turns made the story engaging.
I enjoyed the sparring between Shreya and Kunal; I loved the grilling Shreya's mother puts Kunal through - it was so believable - that woman is a relentless tiger; the relationship between Shreya and her mother-in-law is delightful and would be a dream come true for most women!
All in all, an enjoyable story.
February 10, 2017
Real read is when you live or completely in the charcters and story. The author gave a full justice to all characters and each played vital role in the story which revolves around the main characters of book i.e. Shreya and kunal..
The couple who unknowingly and knowingly became villians in each others life and heart breaks... How destiny take them together and how the chapters or evil, revenge , hate changed into endless care, love, romance and support to each other. seems like a truly hate love bollywood movie... where the female lead "shreya" has all the qualities to change his man with patience, care and took out best from the worst.
It is really funto read how there hatred changed into love and become the most beautiful and compatible to each other. The verbal love with sarcasm is really a fun to read and get more involved in the book.
The title " He fixed the match She fixed him"of the book truly justify the story. Well done .. to the author.
The couple who unknowingly and knowingly became villians in each others life and heart breaks... How destiny take them together and how the chapters or evil, revenge , hate changed into endless care, love, romance and support to each other. seems like a truly hate love bollywood movie... where the female lead "shreya" has all the qualities to change his man with patience, care and took out best from the worst.
It is really funto read how there hatred changed into love and become the most beautiful and compatible to each other. The verbal love with sarcasm is really a fun to read and get more involved in the book.
The title " He fixed the match She fixed him"of the book truly justify the story. Well done .. to the author.
November 14, 2014
A twist of fate and some extremely clever manipulation by Kunal manages to get Shreya married to him. For her this is her worst nightmare come true; however, she doesn't lose her cool and decides to stick around and set things right in her own manner. Do things become all right or does Kunal's desperation for revenge spoil the situation beyond all control. This forms the crux of the novel.
An extremely heart-warming debut novel by the author where almost all the characters are very clearly etched out and will surely stick with readers for some time after they finish reading the book. Extremely easy to understand language which moves the narrative along at a brisk pace while being believable and easily relatable, this book is quite a breezy read.
Detailed review to follow on my blog sometime later this week - http://mahabore.wordpress.com/categor...
An extremely heart-warming debut novel by the author where almost all the characters are very clearly etched out and will surely stick with readers for some time after they finish reading the book. Extremely easy to understand language which moves the narrative along at a brisk pace while being believable and easily relatable, this book is quite a breezy read.
Detailed review to follow on my blog sometime later this week - http://mahabore.wordpress.com/categor...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews