The Tearoom, Gretchen Haley

The Tearoom opening lines: Time is a deception. The past is happening right now, the present almost doesn’t exist and the future, the future is always changing.

My blurb:

Tubby does not know it, but his future is changing right before his eyes. He has made plans and finally, after years of waiting, he is ready. Ready to grab his future and embrace it. But first he has to tell the people he has involved in his future about their plans. And despite his best efforts, nothing goes as he expected it to.

The Tearoom

Tubby Reddy has a plan simmering in his kitchen …

Meet Thirapatheegadu Ezekiel Reddy, Tubby for short, because heaven knows a man called Thirapatheegadu walks a lonely road. Proud proprietor of The Tearoom in deepest KwaZulu-Natal, he’s also a father, a timid dreamer and the long-suffering husband of hypochondriac Lynette. For many years, Tubby has been working on a marvellous plan which involves the object of his affection – his enigmatic kitchen assistant.

In the month before his birthday, the countdown begins. But just as Tubby is set to embark on his dream life, he is delivered a blow which could turn his dream to ashes.

My verdict:

You have to be South African, with Durban Indian friends to really understand this book. A delightful tale of how our lives are, and how love is there for the taking. A story woven with our past and our future that will make you laugh, and hold hope for Tubby.

Correction:

Page 267: I made his favourite, fried fish, dhal and rice.

Hopefully this will go for a reprint and the F can be added to the word.

Publishing information:

Disclosure: I was sent the book to review by Penguin Random House South Africa. I was not required to write a positive review. This post is in line with my blogging policy.

Inspiration published on Lavender and Lime October 3:

• • 2018: September 2018 Showcasing In My Kitchen
  • 2016: Black Garlic Aïoli
  • 2014: Host A Cuppa For CANSA 2014
  • 2012: Writing For The Web
  • 2011: Nonna Mia’s

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