Thursday 24 December 2015

LETTERS TO PAST(#3)


"People don't always need advice or time... Sometimes they need emotional support, understanding friends..."

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Dear ‘L’,

I can see things are fine with you. You are always surrounded with work and your friend circle. Do you ever wonder what impacts you have in my life? Let me tell you with a story. Once upon a time there lived a girl, lost in her own world and she doesn’t invite everyone to her world. Gaining her trust was the toughest job for anyone who wanted to befriend her. One day her fairy GOD father arrived and turned her world into a beautiful place. She started to increase her friend circle and lived a happy life. Her God father arranged a grant party, they enjoyed and suddenly everything vanished including her fairy GOD father. She realized that all the things were temporary. She sobbed for some days and lastly accepted the fact. She was hurt not because her beautiful world vanished but because she lost her dear friend, her fairy GOD father. She tried to get back to her dear friend like previous times but her every try turned futile. And finally she accepted that ‘things have gone changed’.


Did you relate anything from the story? I think yes, because you are not an idiot as you seems. Don’t worry I have accepted the fact which you convinced me that you don’t have time. There were times in which you were my emotional backbone but with time I can see the emotional link breaking. I tried to explain this to you many times but you are ‘YOU’, never get the hint. I see your friend circle is amazing, hope that will last lifelong. I have uttered so many complains of mine, let’s go back to our good times. I’m not saying that this is a bad time, but let’s moves back a little.


You are a nice person and may be the gentlest person I have ever met. You never pretend anything and never tried to be a fake person in front of me. You also know how to lighten my mood. Our friendship got stronger because you understood me. It was my first time that somebody understood me! I remember how you loved to pull my legs throwing pranks and pathetic jokes. You liked my handbag na? Don’t worry I’ll gift you one in your coming birthday. (Joking)


Well I learned so many things from you. First “never trust a stranger immediately. S/he may back-stab you.” Second “If someone is not showing interest to be with you. Don’t hook to that person.”  May be my letter is sounding a little biter to you, but it’s my point of view and emotions don’t you dare to judge me… And we complain more because we like the person more. Got it? I’m not holding any grudge against you. You are my dearest friend and you always will be. :) I hope you have a bright future ahead of you. Whatever your dream is, just go for it. Don’t forget to call me to your marriage. I mayn’t attend it but please invite me.


From,
A friend who become a stranger

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P.S.

This is the third letter in "Letter To Past" series. I will be posting letters once or twice a week. I won't be exposing the names, to whom I'm writing and the location, where I met them. 

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Tuesday 22 December 2015

THE BESTSELLER SHE WROTE: Book Review





Book Blurb:

Paperback king Aditya Kapoor's life is straight out of a modern man's fantasy. His literary stardom is perfectly balanced by a loving wife and a spectacular career. With everything he touches turning to gold, Aditya is on a winning streak.

Shreya Kaushik is a student with a heart full of ambition. Young, beautiful and reckless, Shreya speaks her mind and obsessively chases after what she wants. And what she wants is to be a bestselling author.

What happenes when their worlds collide? Is it possible to love two people at the same time? Can real ambition come in the way of blind passion? can trust once broken, be regained? 


My Review:

A banker, rock star writer Aditya kapoor was maintaining a balance life between his personal and professional lives. When he got the invitation to IIM-Bengaluru, he was confronted by a young student, Shreya Kaushik who objects to calling of a book as ‘product’. But later she turned a diehard fan of Adity. Due to Sanjay, the head of HR and Aditya’s friend Shreya got selected for National bank and assigned to Aditya’s desk. Aditya keeps extra marital affairs with Shreya, an aggressive character who can do anything to get her work done. What will happen when the trust will be broken? How Aditya will confront the situation when he will find some bitter truths? And will Aditya set a path of course correction? For all the questions you need to read the book.


This is my second book by Ravi Subramanian. This time he experimented on a different genre, romance-intrigue. And I would say this experiment is a huge success. As he mentioned in the cover page this book has love, betrayal and redemption all wrapped up into one. In this book he also gives a glimpse into real publishing world. How with the help of well known author some trashy books got published.  He also gives us a sight of how dreams and desires of young aspiring authors sometimes make them do vulnerable activities. This book differs from his previous works yet he manages to do it with amazing perfection.   


Characters leave a deep imprint on our soul. He etched out the entire characters well. We can get a glimpse of real personalities in the characters. He has given another point of view to reconstruct the broken relation. Among all I loved Maya, Adity’s wife. She is strong minded, adorable wife who left her career for her husband, bold enough to take her own stand and brave enough to fight the dangerous illness. Apart from Maya I got influenced from Sunaina, Shreya’s best friend. She is the perfect example of ‘true friend’. For me in the end Aditya turns out to be a hero. Well Shreya is obsessive about getting published and she had her own way to get things done.  Shreya had a rough past, she is very possessive and her way of showing love is very different. There came moments when I began to pity her but then there came moments I hated her from the core of my heart. In the second half I concluded that my hate for her is more than my empathy.


I loved second half more than first half of the book. Ravi Subramanian always keeps the language of the book simple which helps me to imagine a picture and visions of all the scenes. The climax of the story was an unexpected one. I had tried to find if I disliked anything in the book, but I found none.
  
I will give 5 out of 5 stars for the marvelous story, well portrayed characters and the author’s effort in new genre.  This book is highly recommended to all thriller fans as well as romance fans.




About The Author:

Described as the ‘John Grisham of banking’, by the Wall Street Journal, Ravi Subramanian, an alumnus of IIM Bangalore, is the author of five bestselling commercial novels—If God was a Banker (2007), Devil in Pinstripes (2009), The Incredible Banker (2011), The Bankster (2012) and Bankerupt (2013)—based on financial crime. 




I am reviewing ‘The Bestseller She Wrote’ by Ravi Subramanian as a part of the biggest Book Review Program for Indian Bloggers. Participate now to get free books!


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Friday 18 December 2015

TWIST IN THE TALE #Final Part



Image Source : Google


To read the first part Twist In The Tale .

Inspector Suraj was reviewing a file when Sheena came to the police station. Suraj knew Sheena about six months ago. Every month she came to him to claim that her father was murdered. Suraj liked her straight forwardness and adored her undying love for her father. He empathize her emotionally. “Hello Sheena, tell me how are you?” He asked cheerfully. “How can be a daughter whose father was murdered and his killers are pondering around freely.” Sheena replied sharply.  Suraj let out a sigh. “Sheena I told you hundred times that I can’t arrest anyone without any proof and I can’t even point anyone. I understand your feelings and I even reviewed your father’s case file due to your request. Everything points that he died in an accident. That time the case was given to other officer, so I can’t reopen the case and start any investigation until I get any approval and for approval I need some strong proofs. Though I truly want to help you, but my hands are tied by law.”


Sometimes Suraj felt very difficult to make Sheena understand the situation. Every time Sheena came to him, he had to repeat the same thing over and over. “I know, what you are trying to imply. But this time I have proofs. Look at my father’s property paper, all his property is in my name. I’m an adopted child; you can confirm that from sunshine orphanage. I don’t have any paper to proof that.” Before Sheena could proceed further, Suraj interrupted her “Sheena stop it… These proofs are not enough and what are you saying that has no connection to your father’s murder.” "No, it has a connection inspector. My mother didn’t love my father and after his death she remarried. She and my step father murdered him together. I have even recorded their conversation. Here is the CD.” Sheena extended the CD to Suraj. Sheena was growing impatient and Suraj noticed that. “I can see this time you came prepared. Submit all the proofs along with the video CD in my custody and wait for few days. I will contact you for further progression.”  Sheena submitted all the proofs and left from there. On her way back she grinned, “Finally I got you two.”


Few moments later Suraj called Leela and within third ring she picked up “She came today, again. Today I had to work harder to calm her. She came with proofs against you. Can you come now to meet me?” Suraj wiped his sweats with his handkerchief and wait patiently for Leela’s arrival. Leela and Suraj were college mates. So they know each other very well.    


Leela and Adil took their respective seats in front of Suraj. “Sheena is an adopted child? What about the property paper, Leela?” Suraj wanted to sooth his curiosity. “Did you see the CD? What is in there?” Leela snapped. “Leela first answer my question?” Suraj crossed his arms. “It’s been two years since the death of her father. She was closed to her father. After the accident she was in depression but suddenly before seven months she started to talk to herself, imagined things that don’t exist. Doctor said she is having visual hallucination. She is imagining things. Do you know now also she calls to her father’s number and talked to him but her father’s number isn’t active. I’m scared of sending her to college. She isn’t listening to me and thinking that we have plotted her father’s death. Now tell me what did you see in the CD?” Leela was on the verge of crying. “The CD was blank. Nothing was there. I know about her problem and your situation too. But is she an adopted child?” Leela chuckled. “No, she is my own child. And her father didn’t have any property. I don’t know what paper she showed, but Adil made his property in her name. Suraj, she is imagining things on her own. One thing she is right that I didn’t love her father but I love her with my heart.” Adil held Leela’s hand and squeeze it gently. They left that place after their conversation.

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“Do you think I have a problem, Dad?” Sheena asked over the phone. “Not at all… my princess.” A voice said on the other end. “Then why I’m in a hospital?” Sheena made a pout. “Because I love you.” The voice whispered.  “I love you more, Dad” She hung up the phone. 


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Tuesday 15 December 2015

THE COMEBACK WARRIOR: Book Review



Book Blurb:

The divine command was from Lord Shiva. So Shaktipurians would do anything to safeguard the 'Taal-Patras' -- the ultimate secrets compiled onto palm-leaves by the yogis that contained everything! Yes, all the do's and don'ts from making of the elixir to reviving the dead! 

This task was headed by their beloved warrior Indrajith. But destiny brutally destroyed their plans! Their toughest braveheart was to perish in a bloody dual. This ill-fated episode prompted the rise of the nefarious king of Narakdesh -- Asurshasak! 


Desperate, Shaktipurians recited the revival slokas on the dead grave of their only hope… 
Would Indrajith emerge and come back stronger than before? And if he comes back, who is waiting for him now with a pole arm in her hands and protruding teeth? 


With black-magic obstacles barring his way, the comeback warrior -- Suraj Sena is shaken when the conspirator rips off the mask! But traitors never go unpunished!


My Review:
I would say a very nice effort from the author that takes us to a completely different world; the world of fantasy and Indian mythology.  The plot and the story line are well put and quite unique. Every chapter is full of twists, adventures and turns. Among all the characters I liked Diya very much. I loved how the story starts with Deepali and Indrajith. Deepali's one sided love touched me. 

I think the author deserves an applause for her first attempt. The author's writing style is crisp and she doesn't exaggerate any chapters. This is a page turning story and have the capacity to hooked the reader, if you have a little patient. I think if I were little small then I would have enjoyed this story much more than now. Some chapters deviate from the main story where as some are beautifully elaborated. 


I will give this book 3 out of 5 stars due to it's unique concept and the author's praise worthy attempt. Wishing her luck for the upcoming book in "Comeback Warrior Trilogy".




About The Author:

Saranya Umakanthan, a Software Engineer by profession, she exhibits her creativity in coding as well as writing. An avid reader all her life, she has a way with her words. She has taken up Indian fantasy genre for her first novel and it is quite a refreshing change to the readers. She believed that being a University topper two times in her life was her success until she held her first novel in her hands. The fragrance of books inspires her and she haunts the book stores too often. She would love to hear your feedback. Do send out a mail to saranya.umakanthan@gmail.com.


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Friday 11 December 2015

WHEN OUR WORLDS COLLIDE: Book Review


About the Book
Akriti has led a pretty much sheltered life. 
Zayn has been shuttled from city to city when he was growing up. 
She is comfortable watching her life from the sidelines. 
He wants to feel rooted to a place he can call ‘home’. 
They meet each other quite by chance. 
And both seize the chance to be someone they both need in their lives: 
For Zayn, it’s a 'Partner-In-Crime'. 
For Akriti, someone who just knows how to be there for her… 
When their worlds collide, 
It is not what either of them expected it to be. 
Zayn has a steady girlfriend. And Akriti has a crush on him. 
What happens when these two become friends? 
The biggest adventure of their lives? Or the road to heartbreak? 
What happens when two completely different people collide? 
Do they become friends? Or, is their friendship doomed from the start? 
'When Our Worlds Collide' is the story of two twenty-three-year olds, Who are finally growing up and finding their feet in the world. 
A tale of friendship and love, crushes and betrayals, messes and second chances, Marriage and divorce… and the elusive happily ever after! 


Book Links


Character Interview: Suzanna & Surbhi



Suzanna: Why am I stuck in an interview with Surbhi? She’s a minor character! 
Surbhi: A minor character who is a catalyst! 

Is there anything you do not like about your characters?

Surbhi: Yes. I don’t like how she doesn’t judge people. Isn’t that not human?
Suzanna: No. I loved my character to a T.

Do you have a favorite scene in When Our Worlds Collide?

Surbhi: Sure. I love the fact I slip drinks to people. 
Suzanna: I kind of love the fact I am a one-woman force behind Poetry Slams. 

Do you have a favorite character, besides yourselves, in the book?

Surbhi: Sure. I love Esha. Even though I do not get a scene with her.
Suzanna: I like both Akriti and Zayn. In fact, I really love those two kids. 

Why do you think people should read When Our Worlds Collide?

Surbhi: Because they’re bored out of their minds?
Suzanna: Nice, Surbhi. *rolls eyes* I think they should read it because it is a coming of age story. And because it tells you right from the start that it is not always about the happy ending. Sometimes, it is about the story.

Do you think either of you will feature in subsequent sequels to this novella?

Surbhi: Pfffftttt!!!
Suzanna: It’s really too early to say. 


My Review-:


Few books have the potential to take you into their fictional world; you live with the characters and the story leave a deep imprint on your soul. And in the end you will start to miss the characters. “When our worlds collide” is one of such books. I loved this book; starting from story to all its characters. If you had a crush on someone, then you can relate well to the story. I loved its realistic ending also.

The characters are well portrayed and the relationship is handled with proper balance. Akriti is an introvert person, had a rough life. But she loves her café and finishes all her duties. Due to her rough life she never has any friends except Ayoub and Nimmi. She had a crush on Zayn, Nimmi’s boyfriend. Whereas Zayn is adventures and he refers Akriti as his partner in crime. Ayoub, I liked the most, always stand with Akriti in her need.

This is my second book from Aniesha Brahma; I loved “The secrete proposal” and in this book she didn’t let her down. Her writing style turned mature.

This is a light afternoon read and it will leave you with such an expression “I wish this book would have been a little long.” I will give it 4 out of 5 stars for its simple yet engaging story and strong characters.



About the Author

Aniesha Brahma knew she wanted to be a writer since she was six years old. She was schooled in Dolna Day School and went on to pursue B.A., M.A., and M.Phil in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur Univeristy. She currently lives in Kolkata, with her family and five pet cats. The Secret Proposal was her debut novel, followed by The Guitar Girl. She was a contributing author with her story The Difference, in the anthology: Voices, Old & New. When Our Worlds Collide is her third work of fiction, and first novella.




Stalk Links



Giveaway

Prize 1: One really Lucky Indian Resident can win a Handmade Book Jacket made by Diptee Raut of DIP & DIY
  

As Diptee says, its ideal to ~ "Keep your books cozy and warm and away from prying eyes with this book cover. A classy way to carry your book to your favourite coffee shop/library/park for a quiet read."

Prize 2: One really Lucky Indian Resident can win a  Surprise gift from the Author 

Lets keep you guessing ;) Rest assured, it is going to be something pretty!


Check out the Tour Stops

Wednesday 9 December 2015

LETTERS TO PAST(#2)


“People think we had a love-hate relation.
 Well, I didn’t love him, nor did I hate him. We had mutual respect for each other,
Even as we both planned each other’s murder.”

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Source: Google Image



Dear ‘S’,
I’m not going to ask you “How are you”, because I know you are living in peace without me around. How is your work going on? Did you make any new friends? One thing I know for sure that nobody is going to take my place in your life. Did I startle you by saying this? Yes, you can taunt me now. I have a big heart and I will forgive you.


I remember out first meeting. My friend introduced me to you and we talked about our favorite singer “KK”. That day I thought you and I are a lot alike, but you proved me wrong within a month. I don’t understand, when was the first time I upset you? Is it then when you asked me to change my seat and you wanted me seat beside you, but I refused or when you taunted me for the first time very badly and I snapped back or when you started to force your commands on me like “complete your food”, “don’t waste things” and I didn’t listen. Now you must be thinking “when did I do all these things? Now you are exaggerating.” I’m assuring you that you did all this things, but I have a big heart. So I forgave you every time. Whatever the reason, I have finally stopped thinking about that.


Our “foe cum friend” relation has taught me a lot like how to handle criticism, how to take stand for my own shake and how to handle a situation. I never realize when hate towards you turned into concern. Yes, I hated you for a while. That’s the only thing I lied to you. I had never seen such a complicated personality, until I meet you. Decoding you and your thoughts were the toughest part for me than writing complex codes. Another question, I wonder always why you thought of me as your biggest competitor. I laugh out loud thinking about our quarrels over silly things. I loved to tease you saying ‘No’ to your every questions, requests and commands. In the end I realized that I’m habituated to our silly fights. After our separation I started to miss them or I can say I miss you.


I’m yet to understand what you were trying to say on our last meeting. You were asking for my forgiveness, but why? I also did some mistakes, so we both were equal. This thing left unsolved. Now I will say this once, “Sorry” and don’t make me repeat it again. You know, I’m not going to say it again. You asked me, “Is there any scope of me to meet you in future?” I’m going to answer that now. Yes, we will meet but be prepare for our next meet because I’m carrying a gun now (joking).  


Finally I want to say that don’t try so hard to please people around. And don’t always expect that things will go on your accord.

From,
Your dearest foe/friend

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P.S.

This is the second letter in "Letter To Past" series. I will be posting letters once or twice a week. I won't be exposing the names, to whom I'm writing and the location, where I met them. 

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Friday 4 December 2015

CUSTARD WITH SUGARFREE




My family love to eat dessert. And custard is our favorite dessert. It’s easy to make and it will be prepared within 15 minutes. My Dad is diabetic patient and he is advised not to eat sugar. So in this post I’m going to share the  making of custard using Sugar Free sweetener powder.  


Ingredients:
Pic Credit: Me


  • Milk -4 cups
  • Custard powder- 4 table spoon
  • Water- 3/4th cup
  • Sugar Free powder-6 table spoon
  • Cashew- 5-6 pieces 
  • Raisin ('Kishmish')- 10-12 pieces 
  • Almond ('Badam')- 5-6 pieces 
  • Pistachio ('Pista')-7-8 pieces 
  • Cheery-5-6 pieces 
  • Chocolate-2 pieces


Procedure to be followed-:
  • Put the milk in a pan and heat it until it starts to boil.
  • In another bowl mix the water in custard powder and constantly stir it, otherwise it won’t mix well in milk.
  • When the milk starts to boil, add the previously mixed custard powder and water into the milk. Then add Sugar Free sweetener powder in the mixture.
Pic credit: Me

  • After that constantly stir the mixture until it forms a thick layer.
  • Serve the mixture in a bowl and leave it for half an hour.
Pic credit: Me

  • Spread grated cashews and finely chopped cherries, pistachios, almonds and raisins in the custard.
Pic credit: Me

  • Keep it in freeze for minimum one hour and the custard is ready.   

Pic credit: Me

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P.S.- 

This post is written for Sugar free desert challenge.
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TWIST IN THE TALE



source:Google Image

“How can I help you ma’am?” Sheena gritted her teeth between her words. “I need your time. Can I have coffee with my daughter?” Sheena looked at her mother for a while. It was unusual for her mother to visit her workplace. With a tight smile she replied, “Workers are not allowed here to spend time with customers. Other than my time if you need anything?” Sheena wanted her mother to leave that place as soon as possible. “I’m disappointed again. Will you meet me at dinner? Come home early, okay?” She moved out of the queue and headed towards the exit door. “That’s my house and I will come when I want to.” Sheena shouted to her mother with a hateful voice.


22 year old Sheena loved to work in her cafe as a part timer.  Apart from her M.tech studies, cafe was the only place where she was able to distract herself. She lost her father two years ago and her mother remarried a year ago. She hated her mother not because she remarried the wrong guy, but because she never once loved her father.

Sheena entered her home only to find her step father frowning at her. “What?” Sheena snapped. “Can you bring me a water bottle, it’s on the table.” Her step father said in a calm voice. “Go, do your own work and stop acting like a pathetic guy. What are you even doing now, I told you thousand times that it’s my father’s chair. Don’t sit on it.” Sheena’s mother rushed towards them and hushed, “Don’t bother her hubby. She is tired now and don’t order around.” She squeezed Sheena’s shoulder for showing her support. Sheena’s step father wiped tears from his eyes. Sheena moved her mother’s hand away and headed towards her bed room.


Leela, Sheena’s mother moved towards Sheena’s step-father, Adil. “I know, she doesn’t like you. But don’t be upset now.” She tried to console him. “You always do support her and may I remind you she is your adopted daughter, not even your own.” He said with a dark expression. “I didn’t tell my husband to adopt her. One day he came with a baby girl and told me to take care of her. I can’t believe he gave all his property to her and didn’t leave a single penny for me.” Money always matters to Leela, that’s why she married to Sheena’s father in the first place. “I know dear, you have to gain her trust. That’s why I faked the tears. You are doing well by supporting her.” Adil grinned. “We had killed my husband for the property and now we can also succeed in taking over the properties from that silly girl. I have faith on you.” They embraced each other.


Stood beside her bed room door, Sheena recorded their entire conversation. She closed the door and sat on her bed. A moment later her phone vibrated. She picked up in second ring. “How are you my daughter?” a male voice hummed from the other side of the phone. “Dad, I have finally found enough proofs to make them guilty for their crimes.” Sheena sounded determined. “I knew, you can do it. I’m proud of you.” And the line got cut.

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thanks for stopping by, It's my first suspense genre short story attempt. I will love to hear your comments...



Wednesday 2 December 2015

LETTERS TO PAST(#1)




"We don't meet people by accident, we cross their path for a reason"


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Source: Google Images

Dear M,

How are you? How is life going on with you? It's been a while since I talked with you. I wonder do you miss me? You are that one person who tries to see through me. I will cherish our every moment that we spent during our training period.

You are the one who taught me how to be mischievous, how to live my life openly, how to control my emotions and how to laugh at my own stupidity. You know, I have wished umpteenth times that if you were my sister and we would be spending time together. I loved it when in our presentation section you told about my blog. I saw the excitement in your eyes, did you notice eagerness in me? Did you notice the shock, when you told me that you have drank alcohol and smoked several times?  At first I thought we are the two opposite sides of a coin, but with due time my mindset changed. I was very sad, when you cried your heart out holding me.  In the initial time of our departure I started to miss you. I got emotionally attached with you, but now I’m a big person. I have composed myself and got habituated to the emptiness. I have kept you in one corner of my precious memory. When I thought to write letters, you were the second person that came to my mind. Now you must be wondering who the first person is? Well, it’s a secret. I will tell you and only you when we will meet next time.

Don’t forget to invite me in your marriage. Finally wishing you a bright future and waiting for your reply.



From,                                                                                                                    
Yours long lost friend

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P.S.

This is the first letter in "Letter To Past" series. I will be posting letters once or twice a week. I won't be exposing the names, to whom I'm writing and the location, where I met them. 

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Saturday 28 November 2015

Michael's Mystery: Book review

Book Blurb:

It was time for the Lords of the High Council to step in when the Grandmaster of Kryane is accused of murdering his own people. They had little choice but to prevent the collapse of the whole magicians order, so they sent Michael to investigate the allegations.

The people of the desert planet were an enigma, but none more than Andesine, the healer assigned to assist Michael. Why did she report the Grandmaster? Was she involved, or was there something more sinister going on?

The more people they interrogated the more they suspected that nothing was as it seemed. Not the murders, nor the Grandmasters' motive as everyone thought.

Unable to resist the growing attraction between them, Michael and Andesine learn that they had to trust each other with their own secrets, and risking any future they might have.
Time and again the High Lords had to step in to prevent chaos on Kryane, but time was running out for Michael and Andesine. They had to get a new Grandmaster in place before the Kryane Order collapsed completely. And they had to find the who the true culprit was.

Fortunate to escape an attack from this monster once, they were risking the lives of many others in the process. Before the High Lords could formulate a plan, Michael and Andesine were captured, leaving the High Lords helpless to prevent it.
Kidnapped and imprisoned, Andesine was confronted with the realisation that if they were to survive their ordeal, it was up to her and her long suppressed powers. But as a healer she saved lives, would she be able to destroy the monster before he forces her to unleash her power to destroy the future of mankind?


My Review:


I started this book with a lot of curiosity because fantasy is one of my favorite genres, but it leads me to disappointment. From the beginning I got confused with so many characters and the plot was also not clear but after few chapters I feel a little connected to the story.

I love the concepts of magic, dragons, healers, guardians and warriors put in the story. Such unique concepts led me to another world, where I was visualizing different dragons.  I felt the characters are strong but the story-line was weak. I felt the sparkle between the main protagonists.  Some chapters are beautifully written but this book also didn’t justify its name; till the end I didn’t understand what Michael’s mystery is.

Linze Brandon is an emerging author. I loved her writing style in this book. I wish to read some amazing books from her.


I will give this book 3 out of 5 rating due to the author’s strong concepts in story and some beautifully written chapters. I will recommend it to all fantasy and lick-it genre fans.



About the Author:

Teaching herself to read before she went to school, it was the start of her life long love affair with books. Trained as an engineer, Linzé has worked as an export consultant and is presently a project manager. Although she still loves to read, she also enjoys counted stitch embroidery, archery, tai chi, fly fishing, painting, her husband's medal winning photographs and watching Manchester United play.

She counts both novels and short stories to her publishing credit. Her fourth novel, Waiting for Adrian, is planned for publication early in 2016. Her story, The Vernal Equinox, was a finalist in a sci-fi flash-fiction competition in 2015.

Linzé Brandon lives in Pretoria, South Africa, with her engineer husband and German Shepherds who are convinced that the world revolves only around them.





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Friday 27 November 2015

SHE LOVES ME, HE LOVES ME NOT: Book Review




Book Blurb:
Zoella didn’t know whether she was devastatingly happy or happily devastated.

Zoella has been in love with Fardeen Malik, her best friend’s gorgeous older brother, since she was ten, but he’s always seen her as a ‘good girl’—not his type—and he can barely remember her name. Besides, he’s engaged to a gorgeous leggy socialite, someone from the same rarefied social strata as the imposing Malik family. In short, Zoella has no chance with him.

Until a brutal accident leaves Fardeen scarred and disfigured, that is. Suddenly bereft of a fiancée, Fardeen is bitterly caustic, a shell of the man he used to be, a beast that has broken out of the fairy tale world he once lived in. And a twist of fate lands him his very own beauty—Zoella.

This man, however, is a far cry from the Fardeen of her dreams. Stripped of her illusions, Zoella creates her own twist in the fairy tale, beating him at his own game.

Zeenat Mahal explores themes of love, longing and arranged marriages in this modern, unusual interpretation of the old-age fairy tale
 


My Review:

A beautiful and unique take on the epic tale of Beauty and the Beast; this story far exceeded my expectations. A beautiful storyline has the potential to make the readers fall for the characters. I fall for both the protagonists; the male protagonist is strong yet scratched from inside as well as outside. The female protagonist is laughable and adorable yet situations made her a stoic person. Both have the attraction for each other, but they are fighting the urge against it.


The story starts with so many characters, which may make you a little confused for a while. But once you keep on the track, you can’t resist keeping down the book. I love the quarrels, misinterpretations and reactions towards a situation of the main protagonists. The family has also an important part in this book.


This is my first read from Zeenat Mahal. Zeenat took me to a world of imagination and after finishing the book I realized that I’m not Zoella. Zeenat has already made her place in my favorite author’s list. I’m waiting to read more from Zeenat.



I will give it 5 out of 5 stars due to strong story-line, Zeenat’s standalone writing style and a realistic retake on my favorite fairy-tale. This book is recommended to all the readers. This book can make a reader enthralled and hooked.


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Tuesday 17 November 2015

LET ME GO: Book Review






Book Blurb:

Indira Kelkar, free-spirited and rebellious, had no complaints about life. She had doting parents, an unparalleled passion for mountaineering, and a best friend in Anshuman Kale. And to top it off, she had fallen head over heels in love with a much older Kapil Chauhan.

Why then is she trapped in a hospital bed with locked-in syndrome and an impending euthanasia appeal?

Her only hope now is Anshuman, once her best friend, but now in Australia with many reasons to hate Indira after a bitter fallout six years ago. Anshuman chooses to place his life in Australia on hold, despite his soon-to-be wife’s objections and travels to his home country in an attempt to be there for his childhood friend.

With modern medicine failing and Indira’s hopes dwindling, Anshuman is short on time and ideas, until an epiphany dawns upon him.

But is it all too little and too late?
 


My Review:

“Let me go” is a combination of friendship, hardships, love, bitter truth and reality. The book has strong connection to reality and set a perfect example of true friendship. All the characters have strong personalities. I get amused by Indira Kelkar, the female protagonist of the book. Sometimes her character made me angry and sometimes made me sympathized towards her. You need a strong coffee and a Sunday afternoon to read this novel. 


Shriram Iyer is a promising author. He has done well beyond my expectation level. He has put the emotions through words correctly; he neither exaggerates things nor rushes the things.


This book is highly recommended to all Indian writing fans, those have soft corner for melodrama. I will give the book 4 out of 5 stars for the authors writing style and simple yet strong story line.   


I got this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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Sunday 10 May 2015

A LETTER TO MAMA


Hold me tight and smile bright mama.
Love you...

Dear mama,

Happy mother’s day. GOD showers you with lots of happiness and blessings. Hope your life in Bhubaneswar would be fine. I miss you mama. This year, I thought instead of gifts I’ll write a letter to you.

I wonder, do you ever wish to know what kind of mother you are in my life? I simply say ‘Mama, you are the coolest.’ You have wiped my running nose, massaged me with oil and mopped my pop. I have heard so many stories from my childhood like I always cry at night. I loved to pull your hair and you shouted with agony. I heard from granny that I was calling you by your name instead of mama.  We always shared a special relationship; you have guided me, disciplined me, loved me, protected me, supported me, taught me and helped me in taking the right decision. You have stood by my side in my every decision. Till now you never spoke rudely with me.

Do you remember mama, once I participated in the inter dance competition without informing you. That evening I left my home lying to you that I’m going to my friend’s house. But, guilt evolved me and after my performance I returned home to tell you the truth. I was scared to death that you’ll punish me after knowing it, but you didn’t. Instead, you looked at me for several minutes, patted my shoulder to console me and I learned a great lesson from you. 

 Once I lose a bet from my friends and I had to give them treats. I thought you won’t give me money, so I stole from papa’s wallet. Later you caught my crime, but I saw tears in your eyes. I realized my mistake. I learned to be honest. You taught me that honesty lies in simplicity. You always forgive me for my mistakes. I’m a better person because of you. 

You are my source of inspiration. You always try to show me your smiley face, but I know you are growing gray hairs and I can see your wrinkles also. Sometimes you are tired, but you don’t give anyone a hint of it. I always wonder how you manage both teaching and household work. I’m yet to learn that.   

Your every lesson has embarked my thoughts and engraved in my soul. My love for you is so big that words will fail me to express it. Still I’ll say, I love you mama. And I know you’ll say, ‘love you too, beta’.

From,
Yours princess.

I am writing a letter about how a mother teaches honesty to her child with the Max Life Insurance i-genius #YoursHonestly activity in association with BlogAdda.

SOME MEMORIES TO CHERISH


I got an outstanding gift from GOD. That's you, mama.


Dear mama,

Happy mother’s day. GOD showers you with lots of happiness and blessings. Hope your life in Bhubaneswar would be fine. I miss you mama. This year, I thought instead of gifts I’ll write a letter to you.

I wonder, do you ever wish to know what kind of mother you are in my life? I simply say ‘Mama, you are the coolest.’ You have wiped my running nose, massaged me with oil and mopped my pop. I have heard so many stories from my childhood like I always cry at night. I loved to pull your hair and you shouted with agony. I heard from granny that I was calling you by your name instead of mama.  

We always shared a special relationship; you have guided me, disciplined me, loved me, protected me, supported me, taught me and helped me in taking the right decision. You have stood by my side in my every decision. Till now you never spoke rudely with me.

I feel proud when relatives compare me with you. Some say I’m understanding, mature like you and some say I look alike you. You made me understand how to follow my heart rather than my mind. Now if people are praising me, it’s because of your guidance.

I love your voice, when you sing old songs during rainy days. I know you love to scribble in your diary, but never dare to show it. You remember mama, one day I read some of your poems and stories and you didn’t talk with me for a whole day. I remember our dance, holding hands during the power cut times.  I love our long gossip sessions. You manage both your work and household works. You never saw your tiredness in front of me and always put on a smile on your face. You hate to admit that you’re becoming fat. I always taunt you about your fatness yet you look like a doll to me.

 Do you remember mama, once I participated in the inter dance competition without informing you. I was scared to death that you’ll punish me after knowing it, but you didn’t. Instead, you patted my shoulder and I learned a great lesson from you. I learned to be honest. And when I stole money from papa’s wallet, you made me understand my mistake.

You are my source of inspiration. You always advise me to follow my heart, accept the things and whatever happens that has a good reason. When I cried for my face full of pimples, you made me understand that beauty lies in the heart not in the face. According to me, you are an expert. Your every lesson has embarked my thoughts and engraved in my soul. 

My love for you is so big that words will fail me to express it. I remember the last words of my Aai(maternal grandmother), “Liku, take care of your mama and love her for eternity. Will you?” That day I realized all mothers expected a little attention and care from their daughters. I’ll come to you when my training will be over. Till then keep smiling and keep nagging me over the phone.

From,
Yours princess.



    

Thursday 7 May 2015

REFLECTIONS (#AtoZChallenge April 2015)




It's time for celebration, I have completed my April's A to Z challenge. It was my first attempt and I succeed. Yeyy... I have kept my theme as 'My College Diary', where I was posting fictions inspired from my college life. That was a serial story titled from A to Z.

At first I kept my theme as flash fiction, but I thought to keep my theme a little unique. Then suddenly I got an idea that why can't I share my own college life stories. Then I changed my theme. 

During the April challenge I got some reader's attention, receives love and some got my attention. I got a dear friend and my love for blogging increased. 

Among my posts I think, I love the most Q- Quest for words. In that post I had defined myself, how I'm and not what others think me. Apart from that I cherish my each and every post of A to Z challenge. 

Once again, Yeyy... I have completed it. Thank you all my readers for your support and time.      


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