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Friday, 10 March 2017
Silent Invaders by Shree
Year Published : 2016
Publisher : Petals Publishers
Pages : 96
Format : Paperback


Book Synopsis

'Silent Invaders' is a mystery-thriller novel. It revolves round the life of a young woman Sana and the story involves hate crimes which were nurtured due to childhood assaults. Sana develops a horrific mental illness, which impacts her normal life drastically. She remains totally oblivious of what was happening to her and around her. But her near and dear ones finally stir the society to become aware of the reasons and the consequences of the traumatic condition Sana went through.


My Review
I remember how curiously I was searching on internet from past few days any novel catering psychological horror or thriller genre but realizing loads of books are there it was really hard to pick one and read it, thus it was such a difficult task though they didn’t match my anticipation but trust me this book came like a bliss. It actually fulfill my thirst of reading something really out of the box.  Silent Invaders revolves around horrific murders and a single thread which binds everything going around. Book is just a perfect mixture of crime, love, child abuse and suspense. Just loved the concept, so fresh.
Story begins with multiple murders in Durham, a country in north-east of England whereas another parallel story goes on about a girl named Sana. The narration of the book was fast paced but author has really worked hard in penning down emotions into short and crisp chapters. As stated in the author’s bio, she loves travelling and yes her wanderlust was seen in the book.
I couldn’t afford to think any other apt title of this book because it says a lot. Story title was really catchy and will compel the readers to go ahead and read the book. Talking about the cover design, the cover design is just so spooky. A girl who is standing alone in the dusk and blowing wind played with her hair as if wind was intentionally blowing so that she can disguise herself. Beautiful cover, goes with the storyline. The language of the book was really very simple yet very lucid, foreign expression adds more flavor to it. Simple and readable.
I do not know whom to call my favorite character because I loved every part of this book. Starting from Sana, the protagonist who earlier had had very depressing childhood and then gradually she had a lovely family. Sana, is a girl who strongly believes in justice and wants every child to have a beautiful and memorable childhood. Can anyone imagine such person as threat or spooky? To know more, go and grab your copy. Strong built character.
Another character I enjoyed was Rita, the attorney-at-law who brilliantly solved the mysterious murders and stood by what is right. Coming back to Sana, I really loved her parents. They are so lovable.
Portions I enjoyed was when the story commenced, the brutal multiple murders, literally enjoyed the crime scenes. Next, I enjoyed all the medical sessions added into the books, some of them was no less than feeling you might be the one. Another, which caught my attention was the very strong yet neglected topic of child abuse, believe me author has really written and experimented on such an issue outstandingly.
I would love to recommend this amazing work to everyone because you won’t regret it for a second. Once you start reading you will be hooked till the last page and book will leave you with curiosity what will happen next.
My verdict- 4/5 stars. I couldn’t help but I have to wait to hear from the author about her upcoming books.
Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava

Wednesday, 8 March 2017

Sinister Series 1 – Chromozone Flesh and Blood by Paul Roberts

Year Published : 2015
Publisher : Amazon Asia-Pacific Holdings Private Limited
Pages : 258
Format : Kindle Edition



  
                                                 Book Synopsis


The first book of The Sinister Series features Sara Greene. A mother to an adorable seven year old who is deaf from birth. Straight away their world is thrown into turmoil when a contagious infection is spreading across the United Kingdom, turning the living into a new breed of zombie like no other. Fearful for their lives, Sara has no choice but to build up the courage to protect her only child one way or another. She learns the hard way that the rules have changed. It’s kill or be killed. 

Just how far will Sara go to protect the one thing that means everything to her? Can she put all her instincts aside and become a killer? 


                                               My Review
Chromozone Flesh and Blood is a story which every Zombie lover would love to read. Ya, you heard me right, the book revolves around a group of survivors running to save their life and trying every second to get rid off Zombies who captured the whole United Kingdom. For a second. I thought that I am going to read the same plot of Resident Evil luckily author saved me and yes, it was different though somewhere I found the plot similar but that’s obvious they are after all Zombies and you cannot befriend them or they cannot pass through the walls like ghosts. The book is full of scary portions and human fight against odds. But what happen? Did they survived or they too were turned into Zombies and for that you need to buy and read the book.

Narration- Narration of the book was fast paced and very gripping. I completed the book in a single go and yes it does not ends what happened in any Zombie featuring movie.

Language – Language of the book was crisp but somewhere I felt disappointed due to grammatical errors but its okay sometime we just need to feel the book rather than being a Grammar Nazi.

Characters I enjoyed the most –

Sara – Sara, one of the main character, strongly built and really was inspiring virago. Sara who was having everything perfect in her life but suddenly one call from her husband turned her world upside down. Sara who keeps on fighting and experienced the most horrible picture of human destruction, no matter what she keeps her head high and just reminded herself that she needs to be with her son, Harry.

Harry – Harry, was undoubtedly very cute but deaf boy (this could be avoided it made the book resemble like the movie). In spite of being challenged he managed to be very careful and behave like a good boy. Mumma’s boy!

Libby – Libby, woman who was a hard nutshell to crack, not so friendly and loud mouth character. But I loved how she remain true to her new found friends in disguise and stick around and helped others. Libby was just so enjoyable part. Loved her!!!

Portions which I enjoyed the most – Penning down the best and the loved portion I enjoyed is tough because the book hooked me till the last page, giving me Goosebumps and scaring the hell out of me(I love reading and watching horror but I do get scared!!!) Right, so I was saying I was experiencing creepy pasta and the book just not spared me. The book had very intense and spooky portions like when Sara and Harry found their neighbor woman thrown herself out of the car. How the maniacs run carelessly on the road searching for living cell around them.

Once, done with the book I realized it’s not Resident Evil’s story. The author has perfectly added gamut of feelings into a book and it does work very well. There was part where I found my hand on my mouth, it was scary to think who else can join Zombies and makes everything worse. Right, readers you got to read it book to know what I am talking about.

Negative Punch – The book will give Goosebumps to its reader but it will disappoint them when it comes to grammatical errors. Author could have worked in this particular section otherwise a little tip to readers, avoid such errors and enjoy the story. Later, I felt the story could be more twisted and blended because I was reminded of Resident Evil and Zoombieland but what else I can expect from Zoombies other than tearing out the shit of the living.

Book Recommendation - I’m not going to ask readers to be specific this time because we all love watching movie thus, this book will do fulfill your expectations, just go and grab the book and read it. It’s worth reading for all of you.

Overall Rating - I would rate the first installment of Sinister series 3.5/5 stars and would be looking forward for next book in the same series packed with haunting yet powerful content which will again send shivers down the spine.


Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava



Monday, 7 November 2016

Title: Ashwamedha, The Game Of Power
Writer: Aparna Sinha
Publisher: Shristi Publishers
Genre: Political Thriller
No. Of pages: 224 pages
Average reading time: 3 and 1/2 hours
Rating: 4/5
My Take:
Book Title and Cover- Cover and title both are intriguing and provides us, the readers, a subtle hint of the contents within. Background image is captivating and the fonts are clearly readable. Blurb is catchy and apt.
Language- Language used is simple, though topped with a few grammatical errors.
Narration- The flow is good. The quotes and poetry pieces used are artistic, and the author deserves an applaud for using right elements at right places.
Characters- Characters are relatable. Every character has got his own space. And the character details are great.
Theme- Though the story is a political thriller but it does have toppings of love and friendship on its political crust.
Plot- Though the plot is a cliché, but the way it's been told is unique, and this makes the book a page turner. The author had told the stories of Ashwin Jamwal and Hades simultaneously showcasing her art of storytelling. Through the twists and turns in the plot authoress had spiced up a page turner. The climax is good and satisfying.
If you love thrillers, then this must be in your to read list. You'll get something worth your time and money.
Reviewed by: Satyam

Thursday, 27 October 2016
The Last Relic Of Love by Chentanya Kapoor


Year Published : 2016
Publication : Vishwa Hindu Sahitya Parishad
Author:  ChentanyaKapoor
Genre: Romance/Fiction
Pages :104
Format : Paperback



                                                             Book Synopsis

Zahir, a ruler with a vicious heart started a hateful era of war. In this hateful era Farhan and Amber two lost orphans began their pursuit for love and freedom. Will unexpected encounter with Marineth and sabrina bring their pursuit to an end? Or will the shackles of hate wither the flower of love?


                                                            My Review

Let me begin with something amusing about the book which will catch attention as soon as your flip the cover. When the book arrived I almost thought the book must be written by someone who’s in twenty’s; as soon as I read about author I realized he’s just in class eleventh( youngest writer book I have read and reviewed on my blog) so without delaying I completed the book in a single setting.

The Last Relic of Love is a story about post war which drifted the landmasses and civilians in 2050 but in all these turmoil love keeps the few lives alive. The book dwells into where world in spite of modernity turned into a war zone and once again blood fills the drains, dark clouds witnessed the horrifying sight.

The book cover goes with the storyline but I found the title bit misleading. Cover which reflects the dawn after a dread night where as title depicts the lost and found relationship though the story does have romance part yet I feel the title could have been better.

Story begins with the war time and end up on a love note.  In spite of living and surviving in the ruthless world of future post war the characters somewhere meet their soulmates where as somewhere they loose. Apart from the story I found the poems incredibly attractive.

Language of the book was simple and readable but I strongly feel there’s scope of improvement in future.

The book which was a light read till the end but on the other side the grammatical errors and the editing errors creates a hindrances in the flow of book.

I would rate the book 2.5/5 stars, I am looking forward to read more further writing project of the  author and considering the facts I mentioned above, author would take my review as an encouragement instead of criticism. I hope the next book will definitely blow mine and readers mind.

Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava



Friday, 23 September 2016
Title: Love Bi The Way

Author: Bhaavna Arora

Publisher: Penguin Random House

Published on: 2 Sept., 2016

Genre: Romance

Format available: Ebook (Kindle)/ Paperback



Blurb
Rihana is a painter who is trying to find inspiration in love. Zara is a businesswoman trying to make a niche for her company in a male-dominated world. Rihana is fire, Zara is ice; Rihana is openly sensual, while Zara is more cautious with her heart—they are opposites that attract. They are different people bound together by their house—‘Cupid’—and their pet golden retriever, Tiger. 

As both of them navigate their fulfilling careers and try to leave behind troubled pasts, they find solace in each other. But Tiger’s not the only male in their lives. Rihana finds herself a string of sexy men, while Zara emerges out of her shell and meets an actual prince who sweeps her off her feet. But can these relationships last? And what road will they take when love happens bi the way?


My take:
Love Bi The Way, as the title suggests, is a story of love, love where gender forms no boundaries.

Title: 'Love Bi The Way', the title suits the story. And well describes the plots. In easy words, it reflects the story very much, and reader knows right from beginning what he is about to witness inside.

Cover: The cover is catchy. The girl dressed in black is clear on the red background. White and c;ear fonts make the title and the name of the author readable. A male, and a female hand on her back, further goes with the title. 

Plot: Well woven! Least chances of finding a loop hole. Once, you will turn the first page, the story will make a grip on you and will tempt you to go for ' just one page more'.

Characters: Well justified! Rihana and Zara, their personal fears, their journeys are well written. Even the character of Tiger, the dog is worth praising. The secondary characters have also been taken care of!

Writing Style: Easy to read. The author had done a great job here. The story, even though it contains the things which are considered as taboo in our society, is crisp. You will feel the things, while going on. Imagery is well done as well as the details and descriptions. At many points, you will see the scenes like a movie in your mind.

Climax: You know the climax from the beginning. Yet you will be surprised at the way it ends. Further, the story contains many stories within which further drives the climax into something more beautiful.

Entertainment Quotient: The book is entertaining. While the cover and the title may mislead you in getting the image that book might be erotic though it isn't. It isn't a regular romance either.

Rating:  4/5  This is a must read.

Recommendations: Anyone who can read, can read this book. And they will, like me, be amazed by the book, its plot, its story and fall in love with its characters. You can get the book in your leading stores or get it straight from amazon.in. Kindle edition is also available.

About the author:
Dr. Bhavna Arora is a new-generation writer who is an avid learner from life. She is a young enthusiast who has two MBA degrees and a Doctorate from Pittsford University in Leadership to her credit.
A philanthropist at heart, she has been sponsoring an underprivileged boy's education. She also works closely with an institute for special children.
You can visit her athttp://www.bhaavna.com
Write to her at writer@bhaavna.com

Reviewed by Satyam ( https://www.facebook.com/authorsatyam)

Saturday, 10 September 2016

 The Colour of Love: Trumpets and bugles, there was music all over... by Jagdish Joghee

Year Published: 2016
Publisher: Notionpress.com
Pages: 155
Format: Paperback
Genre: Romance/Fiction


                                                              




                                                                       Book Synopsis

Sarfaraz is brought up with a good value system by his devoted parents. With time, curiosity and adolescent growth pangs take him through many experiences. His first brush with girls starts with a friend, and slowly meanders into casual flirtatious affairs with girls at college. 


All through it, he realises that none of them have his undying, true love. A time comes when he realises who he truly loves, and in the midst of it all, he handles brutal enmity and takes on vile characters that misbehave with his friends. 


Sarfaraz's grows up in Coimbatore when there occur a series of bomb blasts. His identity is called in question, as his status as a Muslim makes people see him as an enemy. He loses something precious in the blasts and leaves to Sharjah, only for life to find him and surprise him.


                                                                       My Review

Let me sum it up in three words- fresh, perfectly stringed and above par description of places and events.
The Colour of Love by Jagdish Joghee is a story which revolves around protagonist named Sarfaraz and his life. Sarfaraz who hails from middle class, born and brought by Muslim parents, he too inculcated strong values from his parents. Sarfaraz when hit his college he created canvas of memories, some turned out to be fun while few as a nightmare.

The title of the book goes with the story, the cover could have been better. Whereas the book was mixture of teen romance and a thrilling one.

Narration- Narration of the book was fast paced keeping the storyline together. Nowhere I felt being astray from the story, the book was tempting to be completed in a single sitting.

Language- Being the second novel by Author, he kept the promise of surprising his readers; the language was simply beautiful and really fresh. A positive punch.

Characters I enjoyed the most –

Sarfaraz- Sarfaraz being protagonist keep it’s reader hooked. Boy who might not be boy next door but made girls turn on heels with his impeccable gesture and way of persuation. Sarfzraz, who keep seeking love in beauties but then end up being infatuation and when he realized his love; it was too late to meet the ends but then his life surprise him.

Megha – Megha who one the other side born and brought up in an affluent family was just contrast of Sarfaraz, even they’re religion differs but she was different unlike other spoil rich brat. Megha was a down to earth girl and who kept protecting her friend Sarfaraz .

Rest all characters were justified and enjoyable.

Portions which I enjoyed the most –

The book comprises many segments from a middle class boy life to the impact of political powers, from newbie crushes to intense feeling called love which is felt once and stayed forever.

I thoroughly enjoyed from the being the way Author has described a nuclear Muslim family who lead a life like a Spartan and morals with all righteous upbringing and thought school.

Other portion which moved me when Author folds the story to college life, while flipping the pages my memories were even flashing back. College crushes, hustle- bustle, the fest celebration and friendship for lifetime; all these perfectly described.

Author has even mentioned the major gap between religions(Hindu and Muslim) but it diminishes by love and humanity.  Book kept me hooked on a seat till last page, the suspense part was very well kept and written. Trust me, I don’t read the book but I lived.

Negative Punch –

1.       Book cover could have been better.

Book Recommendation-  Book is strongly recommended to those who believe in love, to those wants to cherish college-hood and it’s memories and to people who wants to read on friendship. The Colour of Love is compact of all these elements.

Overall Rating – I would rate The Colour of Love 4/5 stars  for being the gripping story with perfect story telling art. Book has entered to my favorite book list.

Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava



Thursday, 8 September 2016
In Love and Free by Jagdish Joghee

Year Published: First Published in 2015
Publisher: Notionpress.com
Pages: 108
Format: Paperback
Genre: Romance/Fiction




                                                                  Book Synopsis

Shruthi has everything going in her life with great education, incredible romance, a wonderful husband, and two adorable kids. There is plenty of laughter, joy, and love in the cosy nest that Shruthi has carefully built.

All is well till that fateful Diwali day when passion gets the better of reason. One momentary lapse threatens to uproot the entire foundation of her beautiful life. The stakes are too high as Shruthi runs the risk of being abandoned by her husband and losing her children too. 
And there is no one to blame but herself.

Caught in a cesspool of blackmail, ransom, revenge and remorse, Shruthi is on the brink of collapse. She can run but cannot hide.


                                                                     My Review

Have you been in a fix, whom to choose between two people; one who’s is for forever and other who provide your transient happiness yet that short lived happiness matters to you. Let’s say you don’t prefer to choose anyone specific between those person yet you make choice staying with both the person.

In Love and Free is a story of Shruti, who is madly in love with her husband and her married life. Story dwells with contemporary world where we often find people making choices and compromises at the same time, insecurity which leads to discovery of some other relations.

Shruti story is no different she thought first it was wrong falling for other man but she give in. And then her life change.

Narration- Narration is fast paced and enjoyable. It was eye pleasing the book was entirely written in girl’s point of view. Author has perfectly nestled the suspense till the end, which will make it’s reader hooked and complete it in a one go.

Language- Book language is simple and readable.

Characters I enjoyed the most –

Shruti- Shruti being protagonist, keeps me hook till the last page. Shruti who hails from an affluent family, blue stocking through out her education period, a passionate beloved, a lovable mother , wife and daughter-in-law. Story begins with hunky dory, Shruti’s perfect life depicting her education, her supporting family and amazing married life with her beloved husband and cute little kids. But as we say nothing last forever, even in Shruti’s life things changed quickly as she discovered she had fallen for other male. At a point she wants to live both the lives but life took toil on her. A strong built character and most influential.

Madhan- Madhan Shruti’s husband is kinda guy which every girl desires or dreamt of. Madhan who was constantly involve in his business but he kept Shruti or kids distant from his site, he kept on struggling hard just to provide the best life they deserve.

Portions which I enjoyed the most –

Never surrender yourself to the situation. You have that courage to mend the odds. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Shruti stood for herself and she finally gained everything back. A motivating segment of the book.

The other portion which completely moved me how Shruti’s dad stood by her side, he accept his daughter the way she is and taught her valuable lessons.

‘Everything happens for a reason’ so was Shruti’s life. You learn things from failure too.

Negative Punch –

1.Author could have worked more creatively with the language.
2. Initial chapters could have been described in a better way.

Book Recommendation- In Love and Free is a light read. Anyone could read it, at the end the book will surely provide you few lessons on life.

Overall Rating – I would rate In Love and Free 3.5/5 stars. Looking forward to read more from you Sir.

Reviewed by Aditi Srivastava