I’ve read quite a lot of poetry books but one on Ghazals, never. So this was my very first and I’m in love with it. The best part for me was, being fairly new to the concept as such, I didn’t know much about ghazals, and how they’re different from the rest of poetry, even though it’s a thin line.
The author has beautifully explained the same in the beginning to help the readers connect better with the book. Once I started, it initially felt odd to be reading ghazals in English since I’ve always heard of Urdu or Persian ghazals only, but once I got the hang of it, i just couldn’t stop!
It’s not a very long read but if you want to savour every emotion being brought out through each ghazal then you must read it in retrospect. You’ll understand them from a different perspective.
My absolute favourite was ‘Soul’ and I also liked ‘bruise me with a kiss’
If you’re a poetry fan or a ghazal enthusiast, this one is a must read for you.
This book is based on the theme of friendships, love and all the part and parcel that comes along. When I read the blurb, I was really excited as it provided the perfect image of an immature friendship with some sort of misunderstanding turning into something more valuable in future.
But when I started reading, that wasn’t completely the case. Even though the plot was stupendous, I felt something lacking in the narration. There are not so important details and descriptions almost in every chapter which I feel could have been easily struck off.
The use of same phrases by different characters was a bit tiresome for me as a reader. Moreover it didn’t seem realistic. I know that this is a fictional story but even then, it felt a bit too superficial to me at some points specially.
The character of Shruti is portrayed as someone who is living and sleeping with a guy only for his fame and money, which again was too shallow. In a world where women are become more and more independent and empowering every day, coming across such a character was an absolute turn off.
She not only is using Raghav but also is at the whims of Ayush at certain times like when she pleads him to take her to Goa. Being an illustration artist for a prominent news paper company, Shruti could have been the woman who took charge. But the way she was after Raghav for money and later Ayush, it didn’t sit well with me.
However, I absolutely adored the character of Krithi, she was the kind, helpful and the most wonderful friend all along. Starting from their college days to present day story, she had been a constant for Shruti, so much so that she doesn’t mind attending to Raghav even when Shruti is out enjoying with Ayush. She cares for Shruti as a friend should. A perfect epitome of friendship.
Other supporting characters were well, supportive. The only thing I didn’t like was over exaggeration of some intimate scenes. That was a little too much to handle and I found myself mostly skipping them. Had all of this been avoided, the book would have been short, crisp and the perfect romance fiction we could ever ask for. Given the plot was beyond amazing!
Either way, I applaud the author’s sincere efforts and would recommend giving the book a try.
This is my second book by the author, which was actually the reason I picked this one up regardless of the genre. I have read Uday Sir’s work in the past and was looking forward to his second title.
When I actually sat down to read, is when I realised that this is not a fictional book like last time. The blurb however seemed super intriguing.
So the book basically talks about certain human behaviours and the psychology behind them. But what intrigued me the most were the scientific experiments which proved the theories. It was like a puppet show where only the puppet master knew what was happening. But to my surprise the end results mostly proved these theories correct.
Also the way the author has added his insights at the end of each chapter helped me relate to these experiments and how to interpret them as a reader that could help me grow as a person. This book is actually a gem if you’re someone who likes to explore more about human psychology or likes to deeply understand the working of human brain.
I specifically enjoyed reading and understanding more about the discrimination based on race and the deep thought behind why it happens and how can we stop it.
Another concept that I absolutely enjoyed reading was about practice – how we say that practice makes a man perfect so casually but never really understood the science behind it. And the way the author has explained that with a very interesting example was mind blowing.
This book has a lot to offer, provided you keep an open mind while reading it.
1. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I wrote my first story at 7! I’ve been writing ever since. Writing has always been an intrinsic part of who I am. So yes, I can safely say that I always knew that I want to be a writer.
2. What was your work schedule like when you’re writing? Considering you also work for a US based company.
Managing a full-time career and a family meant that a lot of my writing happened at night and in the wee hours of the morning. Sometimes I’d write well into the night and other times, I’d drag myself out of bed very early in the mornings. All in all, it meant that over the years, I got used to managing with less sleep. Five hours is usually enough for me. If I can get six, I’m over the moon!
3. What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I always need a mug of coffee on my table while I’m writing. And some relaxing Jazz in the background.
4. What was one of the most surprising things you learned while penning down this book?
There is a scene in the book where I talk about Karan’s preference for steaks. It was while I was writing that scene that I realized that despite an abundance of every type of world cuisine, finding a good steakhouse is a challenge in Gurgaon. You can get Korean, Brazilian, Malaysian, you name it, but a good, authentic steakhouse is a rarity in Gurgaon.
5. What difference do you see between a writer and an author? Especially since you’ve experienced both.
A writer is someone who writes anything. It could be lyrics for a song, a short story, an article, a column. An author is someone who writes and publishes a book.
6. What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you? Did you come across it while working on your book too?
Oh absolutely! Many a time, in fact. There were days when despite having all the time in the world, I couldn’t write a single word. Ironically, on days when the ideas and thoughts were flowing, there was no time. So yes, writer’s block can hit hard sometimes and it can be very, very frustrating. A temporary distraction usually works for me, like a walk around the block or stepping out for a drink with my husband. And oh yes, music does wonders for writer’s block. There’s something about good music that really inspires. For me, it has to be Latin. It relaxes my frazzled mind and gets the ideas back into flow.
7. How do you plan to process and deal with negative book reviews? God Forbid, if any.
Well, writers are naturally emotional and our books are our babies. That can make it difficult to deal with a negative review. However, we do have to at least try to take it with a pinch of salt and tell ourselves that there’ll be other reviews, fabulous reviews.
8. What/who was your inspiration behind the main characters of this book?
The main characters of the book are completely fictional and not based on any real people. Having said that, I have drawn inspiration from my own experiences and observations. This includes my own life as well as the lives of the people around me.
9. How do you use social media as an author?
Social media can be a very useful tool to garner visibility. I do use Facebook, Instagram and other social media handles to engage with people and promote my writing. I also have a website where I regularly post my published work as well as a monthly travelogue which people love reading. The travelogue particularly is very popular. My website is www.rrashimaswaarupverma.com.
10. How was your experience of deciding on the final Book Cover? What would you say to an author who wanted to design their own cover?
I had a wonderfully smooth experience working with the team at The Book Bakers for my book cover. They truly designed a cover that beautifully embodies the soul of the book. The team at The Book Bakers is very talented and creative and it’s definitely the best option for an author who’s looking for a great, unique cover design for his/her book.
11. What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?
I think it was the heartbreak that both the main characters went through that was hard to write about. When a relationship that once meant everything to two people is on the rocks, it can be very disheartening. I am a very romantic person myself and writing about heartbreak can take a lot out of me.
12. How did the process of writing this book change you as a person?
I think writing this book really gave me fresh perspective into relationships and how a fast-paced world can take a toll on them. It taught me to value my own relationships and not take them for granted.
I picked this book thinking it would be some sort of a Dog therapy kinda book. But boy I was wrong!
I’m not a pet owner or an Active Animal Lover but after reading this book, I’m definitely driven to become one!
Reading about so many people’s so many wonderful and beautiful experiences with the presence of dogs in their lives was an extremely heart warming experience for me.
Even though as a kid me and my brother have pestered our parents to keep a pet dog, we never really could bring one home for the very reason that both our parents are working and nobody would’ve been able to take care of the pet. Ps. It still holds true in our household, unfortunately.
While reading through, I realised that most of the stories had the similarity of the fact that all the people who were interviewed by the author had a pet dog since their childhood in their lives. This definitely made a huge impact on their personality, as is also explained in one of the chapters.
Coming to the book, it is basically segregated into two parts – Dog as a Loyal Friend and Dog as a Spiritual Catalyst. Each chapter in the book is a collection of various dog lover’s stories about how their lives were impacted positively by the presence of a dog.
The author has put in a lot lot lot of research into this concept that she has coined as “DOGTrine of Peace” which basically means moving onto a spiritual path with the presence of a furball. The author has perfectly backed her views and opinions with scientific research proof wherever necessary to point out the need of having dogs as a spiritual companion in life.
There were some specific portions from the book that I absolutely loved! The one where the author talks about how preschool children with a dog in the house have a different behavioral conduct than those who don’t. How growing up with a canine sibling can bring about a change in the life of a child.
Another favorite portion was reading about corporates inculcating the culture of human-dog companionships at workplace to spark productivity and creativity levels in their employees.
Coming to the interviews, I didn’t personally enjoy them as much, even though they were enlightening. However I was a little out off by the conversation with Dr. Coren about losing dogs and spacing them at 5 years. It does not show the emotion or attachment with existing dogs in the house rather a more selfish behavior was reflected.
The second part of the book was even deeper and the stories a lot more descriptive of the relationship between dogs and human.
Overall, I loved the concept, the narration was on point and it did change something inside me. I truly appreciate the author’s sincere effort of bringing about a change through this book and wish her all the best.
When Sitara finds herself in a situation at workplace, she doesn’t give up and rather stands tall against all the dirty politics going on in her office.
When Sitara finds herself conflicted between work and love, she decides to not repeat the mistakes she made in the past and focuses on her career growth.
Yes, that’s the kind of girl who’s the protagonist and the main character of this wonderful book, even wonderfully penned by Divya Anand.
From the first chapter starting with a trivia scene in a super chill Bangalore bar till the very last chapter ending with another romantic trivia scene, this book takes you on a nostalgic journey as you delve deeper into the book.
I instantly fell in love with the warm yet bold character of Sitara who refuses to hear a “no” no matter what! She has such an admirable personality that every corporate girl would dream to be like her, with just the perfect blend of social, professional and personal life.
Her bond with Kavya as her best friend and flatmate, with Shirin and Upasana as colleagues and friends, with Dhruv as a fellow colleague, and the special one with Abhimanyu is so mature and realistical that it will make you fall in love with her and her story just instantly!
I’m in absolute awe of the author’s narration. The plot isn’t too fancy but the narration makes all the difference.
Another thing I absolutely enjoyed was the anticlimax right before the end of the story. Just when I was about to applaud for finally Sitara’s life was back on track, it all falls apart. I mean who could have guessed it?
The whole story played in my mind like a background movie scene after scene as I progressed.
It’s an absolutely delightful read especially for rom-com lovers.
I’m feeling so overwhelmed after finishing this book which I was contemplating to pick up in the first place! The whole story is still being replayed in a flashback sequence in my mind. I believe this is the best imprint a book can ever leave on its readers.
The Saga of Spy X13 is a tale of two men reminiscing their school days and how they rebelled against corporal punishment culture of the past.
Even though that’s the gist of it, the book is indeed a roller coaster. Especially the last 2 chapters. The author’s narration is so strong that one cannot help but turn page after page until you get to the last one. I’ve rarely come across such a gripping plot and storyline.
The book perfectly presents the author’s understanding of human nature and psychology through the character of Pokey which was my personal favorite. Even though I relate more with the character of Burp, I’d rather be someone like Pokey.
The character development was on point. Every character was perfect in the role that was assigned to them. It painted a cumulative picture of every event that took place in the story in a perfect sequential manner.
Anyone who reads the book is going to have a great time and wouldn’t want the story to end at all. So don’t think twice and add this one to your list right away!
The Different Bride – The title perfectly fits the storyline and plot of this book as it is an extraordinary story of two people whose lives get intertwined in the most unique way possible.
I’ve never read any story based on this concept before, which is why it was extremely intriguing to me at first. Even though the beginning of the book gives you a subtle hint of what to expect, the story reveals itself with each page turned. It is a gripping tale and you wouldn’t wanna put down the book till the very end.
The characterisation of Chandrika and Prakash, set in the backdrop of year 2000, is beautifully narrated by Charu Singh. She truly felt the emotions displayed through both the characters which I could totally relate to. Chandrika and Prakash came from two very different family backgrounds – Where Chandrika’s family on one side was fully supportive of her life decisions and showed confidence in her, Prakash came from a completely opposite background where his father was a strict follower of rules and expected the same from every other member of the family.
It is a peculiar story in a way that you will feel sympathetic towards the protagonist. However it’s a beautiful love story and definitely different than any romantic story you’ve ever read.
Brownie points for the simple and sweet cover that reveals exactly as much.
⭐”They will call you ‘The Troublemaker’, but before you leave this world, you will cross the 7 mile bridge in Heera Mandi”⭐
I’m falling short of words to describe the emotions this book can arouse in its readers. The story is based on the main character, Rania’s life, who’s the daughter of a prostitute from Heera Mandi – the red light district of Lahore, Pakistan.
In the beginning, the author made sure to attain a certain level of mystery around the characters by not disclosing the straightforward story which I absolutely loved! I had those moments when I felt surprised, sad, hurt, disgusted, and proud. The zeal in Rania to make it big in life, and to get out of Heera Mandi was commendable. Although she did all possible effort to make herself a decent living by doing all the right things, her fate had different plans for her. She lands in a correction facility in America, on grounds of terrorism.
This story perfectly depicts the faults in our society, where we are so afraid that we are ready to punish the innocents only on the basis of ‘what ifs’
There’s just so much to learn from this book in terms of social stigmas, wrong modernization practices and a lot more.
Coming to the narration style, I’ve officially fallen in love with the author’s narration. Trust me when I say it’s no ordinary book. The language, although not very simple, can still be easily understood. The choice of words by the author is what makes an impact on the readers mind and soul.
The book cover is beautifully designed and couldn’t have depicted the plot better. I’m so in awe of this book that I’d definitely recommend this to every reader.
Being an architect myself, this book was of my interest and the blurb was pretty intriguing, which is why I picked this title in the first place.
Apart from architecture, it also interests me on mythological/historic fiction grounds. The plot is set up in an old setting where the master architect of Konark Temple shares his secrets during the temple construction.
This book is the first part of a duology of construction of Konark Temple. Readers who are into historic fictions would like this one.
The drawback I felt was too many details in the same scene. Hoping for better balance maintained between detailing in the second book. As for the narration, it’s a bit above average but some grammatical errors here and there break the flow. The way the story ended gives way to the second book. The level of mystery is intriguing and thought provoking.
This book reminded me of another book, “Signboard at Dholavira” The cover design is beyond excellence! Probably the best part of the book.
anmoljauher 