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Wednesday, 7 September 2016
The Monsoon Murders by Karan Parmanandka

Year Published: First Published in 2015
Publisher: Srishti Publications and Distributors
Pages: 192
Format: Paperback
Genre: Crime/Fiction

                                                    
                                                     Book Synopsis

Dishonorably dismissed from the police force, Roy has been
condemned to a life of obscurity. The twist in the tale comes with the
murder of a well-known man in the Mumbai finance circle. Roy is hired by
the self made tycoon Jayesh Kumar to probe the case. While Roy is
excited at the chance at redemption, he fails to understand why he
became the chosen one.


What looks at first an open and shut case, quite rapidly evolves into a tale
of deceit and revenge. Roy must take care not to fall for the suspect, and
not to see things as they appear. As his personal life gets tied to the
success of the case, the question becomes, not whether he can have
faith in strangers, but whether he can trust his friends.

Inspired from real life cases, The Monsoon Murders is a
fast-paced detective novel, taking the Indian crime fiction genre to
mysterious depths.

                                                     My Review

The Monsoon Murders as the title itself reflect that book consists of murders and the suspect keeping on rolling as new characters keep on introducing in the book. Roy, a terminated police officer was hired to solve the murder mystery of leading financial company Fox Captial ltd. , but was not clear why only he was hired for solving such a high profile case. The book on revealing so many hidden facts that they will blow your mind because Author has wonderfully played with his writing skills. This book is a page turned and is not guessing at all.  The book title and the cover is very unique and apt, they both goes with the story.

Narration- The narration of the book was fast paced and keeps your mind engrossed to know more and the question WHO? A brisk read and imagination level of Author is above par. Enjoyable!!!

Language – The language of the book have has amazed me. The topic is very well researched. Positive Punch!!! Author has made be hooked to the book till the last page, even for a second I don’t felt like keeping the book down.

Characters I enjoyed the most –

Roy Konte-  Roy  who was an ex-police officer, a forensic investigator and a loner all his life. Being the main lead of the story Roy kept on surprising us, somewhere with his command on his subject and somewhere as a person with delicate heart who kept on saving the suspect who was not responsible for the murders.

Shantanu- Police Commissioner, who preach his duty and hard nutshell to crack.  Shantanu is like a police officer which we look for in our lives. He not only workshiped his work but also have a sensible mind and loves to respect individual.

Jayesh Kumar- The string on which the book revolves. Jayesh, an old fellow in his mid sixties and a tycoon of financial company, a close friend of victim and a mind player.

Portions which I enjoyed the most –

Book consists of so many refreshing segments that I am running short of words whom to point out. For a moment I thought yes I knew who the suspect is but again when I flip the page I discovered a lot of mystery is still nestled.

But I personally loved the way Author research a lot on the topic so deeply. Once the protagonist Roy was describing to other Police Official how the accused was murdered. That portion totally left me flabbergasted the lines and the scenes will roll on my mind and I was actually living with the book.

Other portion which completely took me aback was when the book reached to its ultimate climax.  We all are victim of someone’s bonafide deed or indirect harm they cause to us, and then a new self immerged from within. For a moment we realize that nothing like humanity exist and then we take the laws in our hands which affect much life. So were the ending pages of book. A wail of man who lost his everything back and again but took avenge of his agony.

Negative Punch –1.Need a bit editing

2. Character description could have been better.

Book Recommendation- Whoever would read this book will be amazed and content. I cannot ask only crime fiction lovers to read this book but it is recommended to everyone. Those who have not read genre of this kind will develop reading more after this book.

Overall Rating – I would be delighted to rate The Monsoon Murders 4.5/5 stars for keeping the promise of entertaining its reader. It’s a thrilled read.

Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava


Thursday, 1 September 2016
Title: When Life Turns Turtle
Author: Raj Supe
Pages: 467
Publisher: Leadstart Publishing
Genre: Spiritual Fiction


Rating:
Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing Style: 4/5
Presentation: 4/5
Overall: 4/5

Book Blurb: 

Indraneel is a young and successful film-maker, an alumnus of Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In an intoxicating relationship with a young and beautiful aspiring actress, his next film is being hailed as a blockbuster. Things couldn’t be going any better. Suddenly, without warning, Indraneel’s life overturns. Hurt floods his heart and soul, seemingly beyond redemption…

He arrives in Rishikesh, a mountain town by the river. The artist within him, as well as the bruised individual, senses the timeless love and solace emanating from the Ganga and the Himalayas, but innumerable whys continue to invade his thoughts. Introduced to Shaman, a bookseller with a difference, and a ‘closet guru’, the deeply sceptical Indraneel is introduced to a bewilderingly new, yet strangely magnetic world of spiritual seeking.

As the seasons pass, as pass they will…Indraneel gradually opens his mind to what he finds around him, delving step by step into the truth about spirituality and human existence. A measure of peace finally descends on his tormented mind.

But the world beckons yet again and Indraneel stands at a crossroads once more. He is asked to make a difficult choice. Will he submit to the strong current of spirituality now flowing within him? Does a spiritual life mean giving up everything else? Can he ever go back to the world? Will he find the happiness he so desperately seeks?

Review:
Cover - 
Lively and spiritual. The bucket full of water, hibiscus flowers, mountains, shadows of trees and wooden chappals on a background of saffron, the cover is serene in itself. The title is catchy, and easily readable.

Contents -
PLOT: Plot is well paced and it keeps you hooked. Furthermore, it is an interesting read, not boring and stretched like other books in the genre.

CHARACTERS: I'd rather appreciate the writer for his vivid characterisation. Indraneel Barua is a successful film-maker, yet he leads an unhappy life. An ugly divorce followed by a heart breaking break-up leaves him devastated. His childhood friend, Arunodaya, suggests him to go on a trip to Rishikesh. And this is where his 'Life Turns Turtle'. With strong secondary characters like Shaman, this book is entertaining yet resourceful.

My Take-
The book draws a line between spirituality and religion. With vivid description of the places in Rishikesh, the book will take you to a ride of joys and sorrows and enlightenment. The power of Ganga, the acquaintance of holy (read spiritual) people and holiness of Kumbh, are described scientifically. This book will deepen your knowledge of spirituality.
It talks about the philosophy of life telling there is more of it than money, name and fame. It describes how amidst of nature and its powers, one realizes the true meaning of life.
 The book gives the message that all is not lost and that if we surrender ourselves to the greater power, all will be well.

I'd recommend this book to everyone for it has in it, the capability to touch your heart and reform your heart and soul.

You can buy the book right here http://www.amazon.in/When-Life-Turns-Turtle-bollywood/dp/9352016157

This book has been published by Leadstart Publishing.
If you are a new author and want to get published, send in your manuscripts at submissions@leadstartcorp.com


Wednesday, 31 August 2016
Romance Shorts by Sourabh Mukharjee

Year Published : 2016
Seller : Pothi.com
Author: Sourabh Mukherjee
Genre: Romance/Short Stories
Pages : 51
Format : Paperback


                                                       Book Synopsis

A soulmate 'happens' unannounced in some turn of the deliciously unpredictable journey called 'life' 

What does destiny have in store for a teenager unable to express his feelings for the girl of his dreams even as their paths keep crossing through the years? 

Sid turns to work and alcohol to get over the pain of losing Sheetal till she walks back into his arms in the after-party of a corporate awards function. Is she back for good? 

What does an advertisement on a billboard try to tell a man who has lost his memory and his wife in a near fatal accident? 

As Ria nurses her broken heart, she meets a stranger on the Internet and finds herself irresistibly drawn to him. Will she find love again? 

'Romance Shorts' is a collection of four contemporary romantic short stories. A brisk read with a lasting impact, it paints love in its various hues that make it the only emotion worth dying for. A slice of life in true sense, the book takes the reader on a whirlwind journey interspersed with betrayal, separation, heartbreak and a smile or two.


                                                        My Review

When author says, Romance Shorts he means that, yes he keeps the promise of entertaining his readers. Yes, this books his AMAZING after a long time I read so fresh and intriguing short stories. They are still on my mind.

When I read the book synopsis I realizes the book has unfolded mine and nestled emotions. True, this book is a page turner and would astonish its readers.  Author Sourabh Mukharjee has beautifully penned every emotions. He not only played fantastically with his storytelling skills but actually made his every character so lively and real.  

The book consist of four different stories, and I fell in love with the first story “ Nargis Through My Summer”- beautifully written with perfect blend of emotions. Every story has had hidden treasures of love, longing and wait- emotions. The title and the book cover were very apt and they goes with each story. Simplicity at its best.

The language is one of the positive punch of the book. It truly surprised me when I began reading. So lucid and it left me CONTENT. I completed the book in a single sitting.

I wish the book had few more pages, my mind was not ready to accept the book has finally ended.
The book was rollercoaster ride to world of ecstasy of being in love and how heart fights with all odds and kept its promise of loving that one person only.

Romance Shorts is highly recommended to ‘every heart which beats for another’-Line from the book.

I would love to rate this amazing work 5/5 stars. Looking forward to read more from the author.


Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava
Sunday, 28 August 2016
Title: Betwixt Twists And Turns
Author: Mona Mohanty
Pages: 122
Publisher: Partridge India (www.partridgepublishing.com/India)
Reviewed by: Satyam (www.facebook.com/satyamauthor)


Rating:
Cover: 4/5
Writing style: 3.5/5
Presentation:4/5
Overall:3.5/5

Book Blurb:
Dragonflies are said to be harbingers of rain, but they may be much more for one unsuspecting woman. A household dog finds a reprieve when Grandma comes to stay. A young man stops by an ATM at night and finds himself encountering robbers-and a young woman who may not be what she seems. In Betwixt Twists and Turns, author Mona Mohanty presents a series of short stories born from random thoughts that popped up out of nowhere, overheard bits of conversation, parables of family lore, and anecdotes from friends. These tales come from a variety of viewpoints-an older woman who receives an unexpected telegram, a businessman who encounters what might be a ghost, and various animals sharing their impressions of human life. These stories vividly capture the routine of existence-but with a surprising twist. This collection of short stories set in India features tales with unexpected outcomes from a wide range of perspectives, both human and animal.

Review:
Cover -
The vivid and colourful cover attracts. Simple, bold, big and white font is clearly visible.
Contents:
The anthology comprises of 2 very different stories, with quite different and twisted ends. The author has got a very rich vocabulary and this shows from page 1. And this was the only distracting thing. Else this book with its vivid and small stories will entertain you. there is everything for everyone ranging from love to horror.
Titles are small, and they fail to reveal the end, even if they suit the story best. A picture accompanies every title making it far more interesting.
My personal favourite story was The Dark Knight.
And if you care about story and tough words don't pose a problem then I'd recommend this for you. Else this book is not for a light read even if its meant to be. But you can pick this book for they will entertain you and make you ponder at the end.

Wednesday, 20 July 2016
The moment I heard about the new book by my favorite author, Sanjay Chitranshi, I asked for a review copy. (You don't wait to read your favourite authors! You instantly grab the copy! ) A few days later, I received the copy of the book and I could almost sense that reading this book is going to be a hell of a ride.

I started reading the book and I instantly recognised that this book is indeed a political satire, as mentioned on the back of cover. As I read on, I was exposed to the hypocrisy of Indian politics. I admire the insights of author for his brilliant analysis and understanding of Indian political system and caste system.

The language, the plot and the pace of the book makes it a good experience. As I already have read one book by same author, Poetic Penetrations, I found that this book's language was fascinating and  but different. While the previous book had literary language, this book is written in simple language to suit the subject. It clearly indicates that author has clear understanding of subject matter and what language that goes with it. I also felt that the pace of the plot was fast, gripping and you just can't put down the book!

When asked what was the basic purpose behind writing this book, author says that it was not only to expose hypocrisy of Indian socio-political system, but also to improve upon them so as India can become strong, prosperous and truly great. I believe that author has definitely succeeded in his purpose and has certainly left a long lasting impact on my mind.

I recommend this book to everyone who wishes to explore deep into the Indian political system and how it works. It's a brilliant satire, written in extremely fast and gripping pace, and beautiful language. I rate this book a 4 our of 5 for it's brilliant analysis and presentation of Indian political system.

This is the book you might wanna read over and over again. Now if you will excuse me, I'm going back to re read Dalits, Dynasty and She by Sanjay Chitranshi!
What are you waiting for? Grab the book now!

Links:



Note: A huge thanks to Sanjay Chitranshi for giving me the review copy of the book! I really appreciate it.

~Rishikesh Pande
Thursday, 30 June 2016
All of Me by Jonali Karmakar 

Year Published : 2016
Published by : Amazon Kindle
Pages : 81
Format :Kindle Edition







                                           Book Synopsis

All of Me is a collection of thirteen little stories that have been gleaned from real life as well as imagination. Exploring a range of genres, these throb with everything primal to human nature: fear, angst, joy, love, and longing. Some stories are designed to elicit smiles, chuckles, and maybe even a belly laugh or two whereas some are meant as a reality check. Universal in nature, each story provides a glimpse of what women empowerment or a lack thereof can mean in a person’s life. 
From a small hamlet in India to the roads of Australia; from a mother’s betrayal to a daughter’s confession; from romance to heartbreak, learn for yourself the what, how and whys. 
Originally written for anthologies and ezines, these stories have been revisited and updated for this new collection. 

                                My Review

All of Me consists of thirteen short stories which are relatable to real life. Reading All of Me was like opening your own nestled part of life and then recollecting it back. Book will pull you to past, present and expected future. Moreover, you’ll find characters are from real life but with different names. You’ll experience love , longing of someone special , betrayal, fear and many more human behavioral emotions blend in pages.
All of Me was  the apt title to the book I really cannot imagine other title better than this . All of Me is nothing your own projection to the various situations and happening of your life.
All of Me book title thrilled me to read more whereas I felt the cover picture could have been better, it somewhere mismatched the book content.
All of Me is short story book and it was completed in a single sitting as the Author has presented the stories in a lucid manner that it makes you stick till the end.

Narration- The narration of the book was perfect, each story was catchy and few were really eye pleasing. Bits and Pieces  was a nice kick start.

Language – The language of the book was simple. Readable to everyone. There were few sections of love and longing I personally enjoyed the most.

Stories which I enjoyed the most –

Burning Bridges-It’s a story about a boy when he realized that he was an adopted child. The story was very touching as it takes you to the place of that boy, you would sense emotions like fear , wrath  and feeling of betrayal.

Confessions of a  Daughter-Confession of a Daughter is story which revolves around a daughter and her  mother who is  heck dedicated towards her household work that she forgets to took care of herself , mother who forgets to stand for herself. A heart wrecking agony and dismal of a daughter towards her mother.

Negative Punch -

1.Book require strong editing, there were grammatical mistakes.
2.Language was very simple, Author could have played with words more beautifully.

Overall Rating- I rate All of Me 3/5 stars. A light read book.

Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava


Friday, 24 June 2016
Panorama A Collection of Short Stories by Shilpi Chaklanobis

Year Published : 2016
Publisher: Notion press
Pages: 134
Format: Paperback




                                                      Book Synopsis

A turbulent relationship between a mother and a daughter takes a sudden turn when the daughter stumbles across a past that she never knew.....

The golden period of a professor’s life is tainted by questions about his purpose until one night gives him all the answers he needs........

Desperate times test us all but when hunger drives a girl to do the unthinkable, her life changes forever..........

Woven around the lives of the people around us – the shy girl on the metro, your domestic help, your neighbors and perhaps even you – this collection of short stories will take you on a bittersweet journey that explores the spectrum that is part of any human relationship and all the complexity and chaos that secretly dwell within the homes and hearts of India.

Often laced with an element of introspection, the stories are sure to change the way you see the world around you…  

                                                   My Review 

Panorama A Collection of Short Stories by Shilpi Chaklanobis is a book consisting of series of emotions penned by author . A book which we will make you realize your ignorance, it will make you reflect your own reflection and the book which is fiction but written in a such a manner that you’ll feel it’s someone’s life. Book deals with wonderful stories from everyone’s life and it will leave you content once you are done with it. After a long time I read really good short stories book.

Narration- The narration of book was simple, it was completely page turner and was completed in a single sitting. The initial chapter was a kick start of the book which makes me enjoy the book till last.

Language- Author has penned down each story in a lucid way, which makes it readable to everyone. Simple yet catchy.

Stories I enjoyed the most –

The Thirst- Love can fill us with complete sense of contentment as well as it can create a void in us but what if you realize that all the vacant feeling comes from your own parents only better say mother , yes it will leave you all shattered and makes you apathetic. The thirst is a story of a girl who remain untouched by love of her own mother and one fine day it comes true as a doomsday of her own life.

Bribe- Bribe, the story which was very close to me because I have seen and observed it in my own house, how our parents behave when we start getting inclined more towards either mom or dad, and how they behave to get child’s love and attention. A heart warming story.

The Wait- Poverty can compel you to walk on any path and hence the story. The Wait is a story of a poverty ridden family, who was devastated completely. A loving wife who longed for her husband to return but she wasn’t aware that he had gone so long that he cant return.

Negative Punch – There were few stories which I found could have been better way. Apart from it, book requires a bit of editing.

Book Recommendation – Book is recommended to everyone because it contains stories which you might close to your own life.

Overall Rating - I would love to rate this book for penning down perfect blend of emotions 4/5.

Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava