Rakhi Jayashankar's Blog, page 100

A review of Broken Flowers by Howard A. Finkelstein

 Broken     Flowers                               Howard A. Finkelstein                                                       
 Paperback, 100 pages
Published September 21st 2015 by Howard A. Finkelstein

A dramatic psychological suspense/thriller about the devastating consequences of drug addiction, Broken Flowers is a powerful story about brokenness, healing, and hope.

Dr. Mary Crawford is a fifty-year-old psychotherapist operating a successful practice in Los Angeles. Noted for her addiction assistance and suicide prevention techniques, she leads group therapy sessions with addicts in the throes of recovery.

During one particular session, she is called upon for a case involving an extremely depressed fifteen-year-old girl who was the victim of a violent rape and has survived a suicide attempt. The daughter of a noted brain surgeon, the troubled teen becomes the doctor’s private patient.

But on a day when the young girl spirals into a suicidal depression, she is unable to reach the doctor and successfully ends her own life. When the girl’s father discovers the circumstances of his daughter’s suicide—as well as the real truth behind the doctor’s mysterious absence—he vows to destroy the doctor at all costs. Now Dr. Crawford’s life hangs in the balance, and her only hope for survival is the broken people around her.
HighlightsThe story line is really strong. The grave issue of drug addiction is clearly sketched with utmost prowess. Dr. Crawford is the nucleus of the story.  The lives of  broken people in Dr. Crawford's clinic revolves around the hospital and Duke's restaurant. Peggy , Jeffrey,Valarie, Peter,David, Andrew and Karl are all Dr. Crawford's patients. Everyone has their share of issues like addiction,dejection,depression and failure. Karl's girlfriend Terri, who is not a patients joins the group in Duke's restaurant wherein they hangout. There is a strong bond of friendship between them. The story is really beautiful and touching. 

Drawbacks
There has been very little effort in augmenting the aura of each circumstances in the story especially in the climax. Menial elaborations like color of the table, dressing style etc are given but the required enhancement of  the emotions are very less. There are a few typos.


One Liner:  This book is a beautiful story  which could have been even more gorgeous if embellished with ornate literature.

Rating : 3.0







Reviewed for the author
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

                                                        About the author
Howard Finkelstein is 77 years old, who lives with his wife and dog in South Pasadena. He is a master dog trainer, and ASCAP lyrist. He is a former drug addict who has not used drugs in 27 years. Broken Flowers is his first novel.

Review of #IAm16ICanRape by KIRTIDA GAUTAM

                                                      #IAm16ICanRape       Author: KIRTIDA GAUTAM Paperback, 1 edition, 593 pages Published August 22nd 2015 Read Out Loud Publishing LLP (first published May 20th 2015)
To destroy great EVIL, GOOD has to shed tears of blood. Rudransh Kashyap is a self-made billionaire and man of high moral fiber. His life is shattered when he returns home one day to find that his prodigy, his 16-year-old grandson, Aarush, has been arrested and accused of a brutal
gang rape. It is easy to say, “Kill the Rapist” but what if the accused is your
child? This case takes an unprecedented turn when Aarush’s identity is made
 public on social media. Rudransh finds himself living a nightmare as he fights against tremendous 
odds to get justice for Aarush, to save him and to bring him back home… 
                                                     But what if the unthinkable is true?
 Can Rudransh save his grandson, or will he end up fighting a different battle altogether?

Highlights

Kirtida has done a great job by portraying the most heinous crime in the history of manhood- Rape. The book is all about how the rapist and the victim reach the unfortunate state and how they proceed further. A juvenile should be given a chance to change himself and start a brand new life so that he would become a better person? Well, A juvenile should not be considered a kid if he rapes someone because then its clear that he is not a juvenile anymore.
The main characters in this story are Rudransh Kashyap, the millionaire and his family. Arush, his grandson is accused of rape and arrested. Rusransh's family is shattered by the news. His wife Gayatri,Son Mrigank, Daughter-in-law Ananya and Grand daughter Navya- Everyone is pulled into the whirlpool of emotional stress after Aarush's arrest. There is another character Pihu, Aarush's ladylove and Kashyap family's domestic help's daughter. She is a strong link in the family as well as story line.
The other part of the story is Subhangi Tyagi, who is the rape victim. She is survived by her mother. She lives with her best friend Tabrez Sheikh(Taz). For me, he is the real protagonist since he is the one man who stood by her friend. He shared the apartment with Subhangi but never crossed his lines. After her rape, the way Taz gives her succor is so amazing. He is what a man should be. Another character is Vijay, who is Aarush's alleged accomplice in the incident. Then comes Meghana, Aarush's advocate, Subramaniyan the prosecution lawyer,Samvedana the Psychiatrist. Various minor but important characters which pass through the story line are Saurah,Vaishnavi,Priya,Shrini,Harmeet etc. Each character is crafted really well. Each chapter is dedicated to a character, who becomes the first person. The approach gives a clarity about the long story.
The irregular order of the chapter and the flowchart in the beginning which explains it is a refreshing treatment.
"There are many parents who gets scared when a daughter is born to them. It is because they fear for the safety of the girl. Let me tell you something from my personal experience. It is no better if your son rapes a woman than when your daughter gets raped. It is equally painful, may be more." These are the words of Rudransh Kashyap. Yes, the story is all about how a family cope up with the shock of knowing that their child is a rapist. Well, the author portrays the family pain in the most intense and believable manner.
I have heard a lot about the inability of Indian Authors in putting forth a good story line with strong language. I have always wondered why this prejudice that too from fellow Indians. I have just one thing to tell them. Read this book and see how an Indian author put forth the most difficult scenario seamlessly.
Kirtida has done thorough homework in portraying the court scene. She has also used her psychological knowledge in explaining Aarush's condition. An appendix of Psychoanalysis of rape is given, which, everyone should read.
At the end of each chapter, I thought this is the twist. The beginning of the next chapter I realize that more surprises remain in store.
All in all the book impressed me really well and I could not put it down.
DrawbacksI liked this book but I ought to say the negatives as well. Subhangi's side of the story could have been explained more. Shrini' and Harmeet's episodes should have been cut short. Aarush's soliloquy could also have been cut short. Readers might not be interested in his boasting. As I mentioned earlier Taz is the star. He could have been given more importance from the beginning. And the chapter 10.2; I was like Oh Kirtida, Why did you do this??? I am not saying more about this because it would become a spoiler. But that twist was needed.
Finally, I was not quite satisfied with the retribution. It was lighter than expected. May be that's the whole story is about. Juveniles doesn't get punished in proportion to the crime.

One liner about the book: This is a literary outburst against the social evil that send shudders down the spine of every parents. Parents of both boys and girls



Rating : 4.5





The book can be bought from Amazon Click Here
Reviewed for the author

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.


About the  author
KIRTIDA GAUTAMKirtida Gautam is a post graduate in Clinical Psychology. She also holds a Diploma of Performing Arts in Dramatics. Later she joined the prestigious institute Film and Television Institute of India, FTII, Pune for screenplay writing course. She worked for television shows such as Dharampatni and Jodha Akbar. In December 2012, when a 23 years old paramedic student was brutally gang raped on a moving bus in Delhi, entire nation felt rage for the victim who was given the title Nirbhaya- the fearless, for the way she fought with the inhumane tragedy she was forced to endure. Her tragedy also brought in light the debate if a juvenile offender’s age should be considered the primary criteria while determining his/her punishment. Kirtida as a psychologist strongly feels that it is role of the state as parens patriae of its youth to give them right direction, and even while the intention of state might be right to give juvenile offenders care and protection and not punishment, there is a high possibility of this law being misused by people who commit heinous crimes such a rape. The book written by the author revolves around this very premise, are we doing a sensible thing by not considering the competence and ability to premeditate while deciding the punishment for juveniles. This is the first fiction written by the author. She lives in Bangalore with her husband Mrityunjay Gautam and her daughter Agrima.

In conversation with Rajalakshmi Prithviraj- Author of Silence Under the Blue Sky

Hi Lakshmi
Thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Q.           Tell us a little about yourself and your background?A.            Thank you so much for wanting to know about me. Brought up in Odisha into a Tamil Brahmin family, I am a 'Hand-On' mother of two kids. I am working as an Educationist with the Indian Air Force. Besides being a trained Psychologist, I am also an Odissi dancer and Vocalist in Hindustani Music. My other hobbies include cooking, craft work, travelling and meeting people.Q.           What genre is your book?A.            My first book, 'Silence under the Blue Sky' is a Contemporary Reality Fiction. It is based on a true story which has been fictionalized.Q.           How do you describe your book?A.            The story is set against the backdrop of the mid-air collision of two helicopters of the Indian Air Force. It attempts to bring out the pain that one of the victim's families undergoes as well as the cohesiveness that exists amongst the personnel of the Indian Air Force. It is about existence of Hope in Suffering. It is also about the fact that men and women in the Indian Air Force are no different when it comes to human emotions.Q.           Why did you select the title?A.            Silence has a language of its own. It can express love, support, anguish, anger, joy, hatred, disgust, pain; in fact, every emotion that exists under the sun.  Also, for us, the men and women in blue (the color of the uniform we don), this organization is like the Blue Sky under whom we belong together as a part of a big family. Since this book was about the pain of a family in the Indian Air Force, hence the title, 'Silence Under the Blue Sky'.Q.           What made you decide to sit down and actually start something?A.            This book is based on one of the turning points in my life. After the death of my husband, Late Squadron Leader V Manoj, a Helicopter Pilot, I felt that I was getting into depression. Being a Psychologist, I decided that the best way to cope was to live through my trauma all over again. Hence, I took to writing. Besides, I always wanted to pay a befitting tribute to my soul mate, my husband. What better way than penning a book!!!Q.           How much reality and how much fiction did the book portray?A.            The story is 95% reality and 5% fiction. In fact, the story is about what I underwent. Every incident, every conversation is verbatim and stated exactly as they happened. However, the attributes of the narrator and few characters are fictional along with all the names so as to protect the real identity of serving personnel.Q.           How did you manage to write the book while you are working and also you have to take care of two toddlers?A.            You are so right!!! My professional and personal lives do keep me on my toes. However, the moment I understood the cause of my depression, I started writing. I would take 10 to 15 minutes break (not exceeding an hour) at workplace, when work got hectic or stressed me out. I would also spend 1 to 2 hours at home after putting my kids to sleep. It took me almost 8 to 9 months to complete my writing, but every minute was worth the effort.Q.           Would you want your kids to be air force officers like mentioned in the book?A.            I definitely would love to see then don the Air Force Blue uniform, and even the overalls of a Flying Pilot if possible. But then, my girls have to qualify and successfully pass the tough selection procedure and meet the required standards of the Indian Air Force.Q.           What are your ambitions for your writing career?A.            I see myself writing as long as I can. My endeavor will be to keep posting on my blogs (till the time I do not get posted to a place where there is no Internet!!!). I will also try and publish one book every year on the birth date of either of my kids. Q.           That’s really interesting. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?A.            Write if you love writing. Write straight from the heart, because it brings you closer to the readers. And as far as publishing is concerned, various Independent Publishing Platforms are available to make your dream come true. Simply put, just be yourself, let go of your inhibitions, and WRITE!!!Q.           Where do you see publishing going in the future?Thanks to the availability of various Independent Publishing Platforms with Print on Demand facility, Indie Publishing is here to stay. It gives lots of flexibility to writers and authors.Q.           Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?A.            To share the truth, I had planned to do a book launch on Goodreads and my Facebook Page, but as luck would have it, I had clicked the 'Publish' button. There it was, my book, visible on all electronic platforms, as a published work. My publishing experience was like a perfect example of 'Man proposes, God disposes'.Q.           Why did you decide to self publish?A.            When I read the terms and condition of traditional publishers, I realized it was not my cup of tea. Besides the fact that I am a Government employee, I never wanted to part with my story. Independent Publishing gave me the flexibility as well as empowered me to share my story with people without giving away all rights over it.Q.           Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?A.            Thank you so much Rakhi. Q.           How can readers discover more about you and you work?Author Blog: One stop DestinationReview Blog: Reading WritingsFacebook: www.facebook.com/OneStopDestinationAmazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/rajalakshmiprithvirajBook Links: (* American, UK, etc.) The links are on Store Locator page at http://readingwritings.blogspot.in/p/store-locator.html?m=0Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/rajalakshmiprithviraj


Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview. May your ambitions blossom. My deepest love and kisses to the two little flowers in your garden.

Interview with Antony Avina

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Anthony Avina, author of VOID.Hi AnthonyThank you for agreeing to this interview. No problem. Thank you for taking the time to talk with me. Always a pleasure to talk to fellow book enthusiasts.Tell us a little about yourself and your background?Well, I’m 25 years old, and I live in Southern California. I work not only as an author, but also as an associate editor and writer for On Request Magazine, an online entertainment website/magazine that covers a wide array of entertainment. In addition to this, I have my own podcast on iTunes and Sound cloud called The Writers Corner, and I have a mildly successful YouTube channel called Avina Vlogs, where I document my daily life, put up episodes of The Writers Corner, and film weekly videos such as challenges, tags, book reviews, and more. I have always been something of a romantic, and I have always been a fan of the horror, science fiction and fantasy genres, as well as a major comic book nerd. As far as my personal background, I have pushed myself to work as hard as I do on my writing because I have a number of personal ailments and disabilities that have hampered me from pursuing any sort of physical labor career, such as Dercum’s Disease and Fibromyalgia. A few causes I am passionate about are Mental Health Awareness, Equal Rights for All, the LGBTQ community and their rights, and Animal Rights. Finally, I have three amazing pets. Namely, two Golden Retrievers named Clark and Dodger, and an adorable little Yorkshire terrier named Sammy. What genre is your book?It is a Contemporary Romance/Drama.How do you describe your book?I would describe it as a modern day play, written so that the reader can visualize the story as a production of sorts. It is an in-depth look inside the lives of true young adults in today’s world, struggling to find their footing as independent adults and dealing with various struggles, such as sexual identity, loss, marriage, abusive relationships and more. It’s a journey for six friends living in Los Angeles, as they try to overcome their individual problems to find hope, happiness, and perhaps even love once more.Why did you select the title?I selected the title because the story deals with the VOID people have in their life. This VOID is different for everyone. For some, they are missing friends. For others, they’re missing a sense of purpose, or perhaps they’ve given up on love. Everyone has a struggle that makes these holes in our hearts, and it’s about the journey to overcome that said problem and fill the VOID within us all.There is an anti-family emotion evident in the book. Do you think family relations are inferior to friendship?Not at all. I wouldn’t necessarily say the book has an anti-family emotion, but rather redefines what it means to be in a family. There are those who are fortunate enough to have loving, supportive parents, or guardians, who love them unconditionally. For others, they are stuck in a household that’s harmful either physically, mentally or emotionally. Something I have come to realize that there is no one clear definition of family. Family is about having people close to you in your life who love you and care for you unconditionally. As we see in the story, certain characters struggle with their parents or blood relatives, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your relationship with that blood relative. Sometimes in life, we have to lose something in order to gain something else, something maybe even better for us in the end. What made you decide to sit down and actually start something? What are your ambitions for your writing career?Well I’ve been a self-published author for over five years, and have primarily written in the horror/science fiction genres. Yet I felt inspired to write this story after hearing the song “Say Something” by A Great Big World a little over a year and a half ago. The song spoke to me on so many levels. It was a tragic song, but there was a certain beauty to it as well. It spoke of saying goodbye to something or someone in your life, so that maybe we could welcome something better. It was a song of loss and love, and that inspired me to sit down, and begin work on this project. Once I had the outline, I was ready to write. My ambition is to become a full time author. I’d love to work with a publishing house someday. My main ambition is to both entertain my audience and spread a message of hope, of love, and acceptance. I’m a big believer in accepting people for who they are, and not judging those who are different. I want to help bring people closer together, and in the process transport them into these fictional worlds, so that they can escape from whatever troubles them at any given point, but also reflects the world we live in.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?My advice would be to never give up if it’s something you are passionate about. Be open to criticism, and know that no matter how long you’ve been writing, there is always something new for you to learn. Even now, my writing is continuously evolving as I learn and grow with my writing career, and so I’d suggest being open to change, while never giving up on your vision. Don’t be afraid to express yourself or pour your heart and soul into a project. You might find you feel a whole hell of a lot better once you see your feelings and emotions played out across a novel, novella, short story, poem or even a piece of flash fiction. If you love it, never stop writing, and of course, don’t stop reading either. Reading books is what got us all to this point in the first place.
Where do you see publishing going in the future?I think the world of publishing is changing constantly. Right now, there are way more opportunities for people to self-publish than ever before. I know there are fears that the market will become over-saturated due to places like Amazon Kindle and iBooks making it so easy for authors to publish their works themselves. However, I’m more encouraged than discouraged. I think it’s amazing that so many people finally have a means to express themselves and showcase their talent. There will always be someone who wants to read a writer’s work. Yet as much as technology is advancing and e-readers are the way of the future, I don’t see paperbacks or hardback copies of books dying down until our resources are used up. Every generation will always have those who love to hold a book in their hands rather than look at a screen, which I totally understand because I love that feeling as well. I think from here, publishing is going to grow and grow exponentially, and the world is going to get a whole lot bigger in the process.
Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?I contacted several blogs and websites prior to the launch, and recently did an interview with my local paper to build my presence in my local community. However, my main marketing goals are for now, after the launch. I plan to reach out to podcasts, more blogs and websites, radio stations and more with a press release, and I plan to host some giveaways for both physical and electronic copies of the book. I also did a lot of coverage on my YouTube channel and podcast, which I think helped generate some early pre-order sales.
Why did you decide to self-publish?I’ve been self-publishing for over five years, because it has given young writers like myself the chance to get their work noticed without the constant wait for publishers to get back to you on their proposal. I felt it was especially appropriate because this was a novella rather than a novel, and so it was shorter in length and easier to manage myself rather than with a whole team of people.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?No, that’s about everything. I think these questions were very well said and thought out. I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me today. Like I said I’m a romantic and a believer in showcasing stories of rich characters pursuing happiness and love in their lives, no matter how big the struggle before them. I hope readers will be entertained and fall in love with the characters in this book, while also relating to the characters struggles and pursuit of happiness. Thank you for your time, and thank you all for choosing to read my work. It means the world to me, and gives me the inspiration to continue with my writing career.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Website: http://gunslingerpimp.wix.com/officia... http://authoranthonyavina.tumblr.com/... https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnthon... https://twitter.com/AuthorAAvinaLinke... https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorant... https://www.pinterest.com/authoraavin... Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003ACFI2UBook Links: (* American, UK, etc.)Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VUR5QK?*Version*=1&*entries*=0Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B010VUR5QK?*Version*=1&*entries*=0Also available in all other Amazon markets, as well as in paperback on Createspace, Amazon and other retailers. Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AuthorAnthonyAvinaYouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/GunslingerPimp


Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview. May god make all your dreams come true without sacrificing anything. 

Review of VOID by Anthony Avina

VOID
AUTHOR: ANTHONY AVINA
Published October 1st 2015
Kindle Edition, 226 Pages

Author Anthony Avina brings to life his first ever romantic/drama story in his new novella, VOID. VOID follows six friends living in Los Angeles, CA. Each of these friends finds themselves struggling with some personal issues of some sort. This novella is written as a contemporary romance drama mixed in with a play setup, taking place over the course of three acts that delivers
character build-up and drama. Exploring themes such as sexual identity, loss, marriage, parenting, abuse and more, VOID is a modern tale
of pain and despair, and the steps one group of friends will take to overcome that despair and get to a place of hope and love. Through their experiences, these friends will find love. Their friendships will be tested, with some becoming stronger, and other's falling 
short. Touching on very real experiences and problems in life, VOID is the perfect read for both romantics and those interested in reading about the human condition.
Highlights Void is a novella which explains the deep relation between six friends. Author succeeded in portraying the friendship in a very effective manner. The love, understanding and unity between them is clearly visible. Everyone has their share of problems to deal with. It is interesting to watch how they come together and fight the world. Several issues like domestic violence, discrimination against mono sexuality, exploitation of the employees by the corporate etc are addressed with responsibility and sensibility. Through the lives of the friends, author reinforces the fact that we should follow our passion to lead a happy life. The book tells us that there are certain circumstances when we should let go of the past. Overall its a sincere, interesting and emotional story and the author has done justice to the story line.
Drawbacks
There a a few grammatical errors and typos but novelist cannot be blamed since its the editor's job. Another fact which disturbed me is that there is a wave of anti family emotion all over the story. Author could have mentioned that not all families are evil, may be by introducing Javier's or Elaine's family.
Everything put together , its a simple and  interesting book which enables to reader to keep on reading.
Rating : 3.5


About the author
Author Anthony Avina is the fusion of intense and visual-inducing horror, optimism and hopeful enthusiasm. As an indie author who has spent the last four years creating unique and original horror stories that highlight the fact that both good and evil can reside in anyone or anything, the creative horror writer hopes to craft entertaining tales that take the reader into unimaginable worlds. With three successful series and a string of popular stand-alone novels and novellas, author Anthony Avina is a must watch indie author that is always working on the next great story to share with the world.







Reviewed for the author
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

A review of SILENCE UNDER THE BLUE SKY by Rajalakshmi Prithviraj

Title: Silence Under the Blue Sky


Author: Rajalakshmi Prithviraj

Paperback, 1, 144 pages
Published June 16th 2015 by Create Space Independent Publishing (first published June 1st 2015)

Set against the backdrop of the Jamnagar Helicopter crash on 30 
August 2012, where two helicopters of the Indian Air Force had a mid-
air collision, this story is a reality fiction, loosely based on the true story of an Air Warrior 
from the Indian Air Force. Narrated through the silent echo of the sorrowful heart of one 
the shattered families, their pain is best expressed as silent streams of tears flowing 
noiselessly  down a pair of eyes that have intensely loved and sadly lost. Sometimes, when 
the heart weeps, there is only language that it understands…..Silence. 
EVERY INDIAN SHOULD READ THIS


For most of the Indians, Indian security is all about Army and Kashmir. Air force and Navy 
has always been connected with the colors of luxury and paraphernalia. Rajalakshmi tries to 
convey the message that Women in Blue are also humans. They have ups and downs in 

their lives. The story explains how Apporva, Officially called Squadron Leader Srinivasan, 

copes with the loss of her husband Squadron Leader Manoj in a Helicopter crash.  Apoorva 
neither wailed nor fainted but accepted the new silently. 
Highlights
The support she got from the Air Force family was the highlight of the story.  Apoorva was 
pregnant when she lost her husband. Hence it was necessary for her to be well fed and 
hydrated. But there are those group of people who call themselves relatives, and finds 
happiness in shredding the broken pieces of composure of the bereaved. Apoorva's 
telepathic communication with her husband, touched the right string, without any overdose 
of romantic outburst.  Rajalakshmi proves that love can be more beautiful if expressed and 
portrayed with subtlety. The introduction of Apoorva's four and half year old elder daughter 
Ananya will melt the strongest of the glaciers set inside any heart.
Drawbacks
The story had some loose ends regarding the literary perfection. The book should have been 
elaborated a little more especially the relation between Apoorva and Manoj and also their 
colleagues for more conviction.

I salute Rajalakshmi for her valor. To battle the inner demons is not easy. While writing the 
book, she would have to relive every moment, which would have been really painful because 
Squadron Leader Manoj is indeed her husband and she is indeed his wife. I deliberately 
used present tense since Manoj still lives inside Rajalakshmi. This book should not be 
analysed by its literary value but to show justice to my job I stated the negatives. This 
really deserves to be a best seller. 



Rating : 4.5

I took .5 because I felt it should have been elaborate. Else, I love this. I 

had tears rolling down my face and was unable to complete it in a single stretch. Thank you 
Rajalakshmi for sharing your story. This is the greatest tribute to your husband. 
TO BUY THE BOOK, CLICK HERE
About the AuthorRajalakshmi Prithviraj dons the hat of an Air Warrior, Educationist and Psychologist in her 
profession. She is passionate about penning her thoughts and writing true stories from her 
life (with the consent of her characters of course!!). She loves traveling, and thanks to her 
profession, she puts on her travel shoes every two years. If you ask her about her 
hometown, then pat comes her reply, “INDIA”.

Reviewed for the Publisher

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

A review on Academic Research Made Easy by Dr. Padmore Agbemabiese

Author: Dr. Padmore Agbemabiese

Binding: Paperback

ISBN: 9789381696620

Publisher: Rochak Publishing

Pub. Date: 2014

Price: INR 150







The ability to conduct research is not limited to college or school alone, it is a skill you will use throughout your lifetime. Even if you don t think that you ve conducted research, you probably have taken the time to discover more about a topic, and, once you graduate, you will need to conduct research when looking for a job or a place to live. Regardless of the question you re asking, two factors remain consistent: You need to exercise your curiosity when searching for information, and you have to be willing because research can be challenging work.


My Review.The book is a perfect text book materials. These days research is not only confined to Management students or scientists. We are undergoing in any platform of life. But how many of us undergo the systematic pattern of o,-[['''
research? What exactly is the systematic pattern? We would have to devour huge books to get an answer. Academic Research Made easy is a concise account on the academic research. 
Each and every point in the book is divided into chapters, which enables understanding of the book. It is designed in an easily comprehensible way. Every chapter is explained up to the point.
The highlight is the interviewer issue, wherein author explains how to tackle the issue even when the participant flirts with the interviewer. The author says how you should respond and what you should say in such instances.
More than a text book materials, it describes the step by step research in a real time context.I highly recommend this book in every houses and institution.
Rating : 4.0
You can buy this book from cuberwit.net
About the author
Dr. Padmore Agbemabiese is a Professor of English and Literature at the Cuyahoga Community College. He is an Africanist, a prolific and versatile poet, a dramatist, and a scholar who has earned a place among the coterie of important African authors. Professor Agbemabiese's academic research interests have focused mainly on aural literature of the Ewes of Ghana, Togo and Benin, and in particular, the applications of names and naming systems to the understanding of the sociocultural and political experiences of the people. His research has helped define the most effective ways people look at themselves, and pioneered novel strategies of naming themselves and how cultural identity is vital to the Africans personality. The Observer, 2013. Dr. Padmore Agbemabiese is leading tremendously important research projects among Ewes of the world, but as impressive is his mentorship in developing research careers for the youths currently struggling with college essays. His book simplifies research. Dr. Paul Voegborlo, an Essayist, Norway. "Prof. Padmore Agbemabiese has played a crucial role in developing the next generation of amazing talents at a challenging time, helping them find a research focus and protecting them from the distractions that are otherwise so hard to resist. This book is a welcomed addition to scholarship Dr. Frank Galenkui, former student, Ghana. "There is currently an unprecedented sense of optimism in the Ewe community around the world, and the key reason is that many Africans do not know who they are. This has reduced self-worth among the Ewe youths so much that they have taken on false identities to fill the vacuum. In 2010, we heard Professor Padmore Agbemabiese speak at the CEANA Convention at Washington, D. C. and all eyes were opened to the untapped values in the Ewe culture. Thus far, many Ewes have started naming themselves and their children and children's children because of Prof. Padmore Agbemabiese and the results are encouraging. Mr. Efo Asigbee, CEANA, USA In reading Research Made Easy, it is clear Prof. Agbemabiese wanted to assist future educators to measure the magnitude of knowledge which fosters socioeconomic and education benefits for the individual, community and country, should the citizenry be provided with the wherewithal of research tools. And he has remarkably done well at that. Dr. James Davidson, a Colleague, 2013

 Reviewed for the Publisher

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The dragon flies of 21st century

During my childhood, there was this cruel game where in kids catch the dragon flies and tie a thread on their legs and make them lift stones. We were not aware of the animal rights or insect rights, for that matter. Through time, due to the
intervention of other games, and electronic media, the cruel entertainment slowly receded to the distant memories.

Nevertheless, it seems that some people still cherish their childhood game and are unable to keep themselves from the same. But being the so called grownups, they couldn't play with the dragon flies. They play with their off-springs instead. The stones gave way to even heavier mental stress of studies and marks.
Today I came across an experience of a teacher where she met a boy wailing inside the Exam hall saying that he is blank and could not remember anything . His father was a professor who wanted to mould his son into an Engineer but the poor boy did not have it in him or what he had was something different. His parents were unaware of it or deliberately ignored it. Why does people do this? Why do they want to bring up a generation of geeks and end up in having a generation of patients?

Depression,suicidal tendency,Indifference- what happened to my child!
To find an answer, I would love to take them to the times when they played with the dragon flies. What happens to it eventually?
Do you want the same thing to happen to your children?
Let them spread the wings and fly high.

To the kids

Dear children

Please do understand that your parents are just playing a game.Don't succumb to the pressure game. Just soar up and dodge the horror. Don't think of ending up your life or doing something diabolic. As an end note I will share an idea which I got from a training professional.

A lion chases a deer. Before the lion could get hold of it, the dear escapes. The lions tries again to catch another but in vain. Likewise the lion tried eleven times and finally got it. Why? Because he tried and tried and tried. Did the lion think of committing suicide? Nay.

Be a lion and chase your dreams. Don't give up.

Haven't you heard of ROBERT BRUCE? Be the Robert BRUCE of 21st century.

Invalid- by KV Raghupathi- A Review

INVALID
                            

ISBN: 9788182533530
Publisher: Cyberwit.net
Front Cover Art by Anil CS Rao

The book in your hand was written thirty years ago while the writer was just twenty-five. This constitutes the first of four books (tetralogy) which were written by him around that time. It might be shocking for you to know that more than thirty publishers have rejected the first one, which is before you, in the last thirty years. Some cited no reason, some said; it is a most horrendous piece of writing... Human world would simply not accept ... burn it. The writer did not burn, but simply kept it along with the other scripts in a box and locked, and then forgot the fate of their print. After thirty years, he revived his interest with a hope to introduce them to the educated public.But, much to his consternation and shock, the same story has been repeated, but with a difference. One or two publishers called it fabulous and shocking; some accepted it in the beginning, later abandoned without citing reasons. Yet one signed the contract and vanished. Still another signed the contract and later broke it after six months. The writer is driven to deep frustration. Yet, determined and ready to face adverse and aggressive hostile world, the writer has ventured it on his own with the help of a budding publisher, Cyberwet.net for which the writer expresses his deep sense of gratitude. The book is now before you, in your hands. Read, burn, and forget.The reviewWhile started reading the book, I felt disoriented. I was wondering what this is all about. I did not have any idea as to what the subject of the book is but while I travelled more with the character, I traversed into another world, another era and a completely different thought process.As the author said in Mohan’s words, this is neither a short story nor a novel. This is the experiences of Praveen. A little boy orphaned during his childhood, brought up by his sister, is disoriented when he loses her. Then comes Pushpa, who lifts his lifeless soul to heights of rapture of love and drowns him to the depths of death. He could not find solace in anything. The firm where he worked, discards him after squeezing out the youthfulness in him. Only after his dismissal that he realizes the fact that the pollution from the firm had eaten the best of him body and health. The pollution, pain, loneliness, despondency everything together claims his life.With very few dialogues and a single chapter, author tried to reconstruct the notion of conservative method of writing. The fact that he attempted the venture thirty years back shows his brilliance. Pravy’s diary takes us to a philosophical ride. His views of life, death, happiness, ego, criticisms, nirvana etc. provide us the vision propagated by great philosophers, epics and the religious books, in a single and small book. The author successfully portrayed and permeated infinite knowledge and visual imagery through the book. Pravy became invalid because of the long-term exposure to pollution but author’s literary power is not polluted with unnecessary melodrama. This book targets the philosophy lovers and those who eagerly wait to read a book with some difference from the usual romance and thrillers. Those who are looking for an unconventional writing would be extremely happy with this book. The book was written thirty years back but it becomes most relevant these days. Thirty years back, it would be a futuristic book and the literary world probably did not have the maturity to accept the future at that point of time. Had it been portrayed in a lighter note, it would have been a classic best seller by now.The negative part could be the explanation of Pravy’s plight in room number seven. It seems to be dragged beyond limits, which might force the reader to flip the pages. Nevertheless, author has compensated with an explanation in the end. Lack of a back blurb is another drawback. A small sneak peek of what the book is all about, could have been mentioned so that the right readers could be targeted easily.

                                                 Reviewed for Cyberwit.net

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
                                                  About the author
                                 K.V.RAGHUPATHI
His main forte is poetry. A leading voice in Indian English Poetry, he is currently teaching at Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur. He has published nine collections in addition to four critical works and two books on Yoga. His poetry is rooted in the abundance of philosophy, nature, transcendentalism, imagery, and social perspectives. Besides being a poet, his other passions include classical Karnatic music, bird watching and ancient and contemporary Indian philosophy.


You can buy the copies from Cybetwit.net

Rise of Kali. a review

Paperback: 530 pagesPublisher: Platinum Press (29 July 2015)Language: English

After reading Ajaya1 , I could not hold myself from reading Ajaya2, out of curiosity to know how the author leads the story line further from Suyodhana's point of view. Unlike the first book, where there seemed to have a conscious effort to portray Suyodhana as righteous and Pandavas as evil, Ajaya 2 successfully reinforces that every one possess purely human feelings of jealousy, hatred,love, passion and dejection.
Author portrayed the story with so much conviction that I felt if that it was exactly the real Mahabharatha.
The story line involving Lakhsmana, Samba and Ekalavya and that of Iravan's fate is a new revelation. May be because of my lack of knowledge of the scripture, I haven't ever heard of the story, which surprised me.
The interpretation of Geetha as a communication between Krishna and Balarama is a brilliant venture and the author succeeded in conveying the vast message in a few pages.
The effort of compressing the scripture into two books is really praiseworthy.
The confusion of the characters about the real Dharma and Adharma is the reflection and representation of a huge mass who gets caught up between the right and wrong.
Another praiseworthy thing is that, even if, story is Duryodhana's Mahabharata, author reinforces that the protagonist was wrong in what the did to Draupadi.
Only fact that disturbed me was that Krishna was portrayed in a bad light. At some points, I felt that Krishna was portrayed as the other side of Shakuni. Being an ardent Krishna devotee, it was disturbing. But towards the end there seems to have a clarity about Krishna's intentions and the author himself has given an explanation for the same.

Kudos to Anand Neelakantan for spreading the message of peace and non violence as well as unity and equality from a book which is all about the greatest war in the history.
A few typos took the cherry from the cake.
All in all Ajaya 2 is a step ahead of its prequel.

The biggest question is if kurukshetra saw victory of good over evil, then why does Kali rise

You could buy the book from Amazon

About the author

The author in his own words: "I was born in a quaint little village called thripunithura, on the outskirts of cochin, kerala. Located east of mainland ernakulam, across vembanad lake, this village had the distinction of being the seat of the cochin royal family. However, it was once more famous for its hundred-odd temples, the various classical artists it produced, and its music school. I remember many an evening listening to the faint rhythm of chendas from the temples and the notes of the flute escaping over the rugged walls of the school of music. However, in recent times, gulf money and the rapidly expanding city of cochin have wiped away all remaining vestiges of that old world charm. The village has evolved into the usual, unremarkable, suburban hellhole, clones of which dot india. Growing up in a village with more temples than was necessary, it was little wonder that mythology fascinated me. Ironically, i was drawn to the anti-heroes. Life went on…i became an engineer, joined the indian oil corporation, moved to bangalore, married aparna, and welcomed my daughter ananya, and son, abhinav. But the voices of yore refused to be silenced. I felt impelled to narrate the stories of the vanquished and the dammed, and give life to those silent heroes we have overlooked in our uncritical acceptance of the conventional renderings of our epics.This is anand’s third book and follows the outstanding success of his #1 bestsellers, asura tale of the vanquished and ajaya book i, roll of the dice."