Rakhi Jayashankar's Blog, page 47
June 27, 2018
Nagin by Mayur Didolkar- Review
Book Name - Nagin Author - Mayur Didolkar Publisher - Juggernaut BooksBuy books from Amazon
Review
Nagin has been trending recently. The revengeful and powerful woman has locked the masses in her immense power, beauty and strange life. Hence, Nagin by Mayur Didolkar has most relevance. The book is a collection of short stories about Icchadhari Nagin and Ichadhari Nag. For the readers who believe in worshipping Nag or snake or those who have witnessed how the Nag Pooja shows the power of Nag or Nagin, the book is an experience.
A teenager witnesses and black and yellow cobra going inside the neighbourhood almost daily. Later he realises the secret behind the snake. The revelation is sure to shock the readers. Another story is about a wife who finds out a clandestine relation of her husband. She tries to save her husband from a vile woman with ulterior motive. Who is the Nagin in the story, is the highlight. A man who stalks his ex-girlfriend find that the ones who cross her path are bitten by a poisonous snake and dies on the spot. All his suspicions are directed towards her new boyfriend but the climax is sure to take the breath away from the readers. A child who strays away from his mother reaches a strager who saves him and sets out to reunite him from his mother. On the way they meet someone who tries to harm them. How the man saves the child is the rest of the stories.
There are even more stories for the reader. Each story is one different from the other, even though there is a Nag or Nagin. The suspense behind who is the Snake is highlight of the book. Each story will force the reader to start guessing who the snake would be. The first story is apparently a misleading one. A teenager who is a peeping tom gives the impression of the intro of an erotica. This was unwarranted for the book which is literary best among the contemporaries.
The relationships are depicted effortlessly intimate without any sleay sequences. Some of the characters stay with us even after finishing the book. The book cover is what deserves special mention. It is fabulous and appeals to everyone. The book is not concentrated to a single genre and hence has a possibility of targeting wide readers. The blurb is however misleading. It gives the feel of a novel while it is an anthology.
Verdict
A book with all spices.
Scenario: 4 /5Narration : 4.5/5Character : 4.5/5Entertainment Quotient: 4.5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the publisher
3 Peaks of Happiness by AiR- Review
Book Name - 3 Peaks of Happiness Author - AiR Publisher - AiR Institute of RealizationBuy books from Amazon
Review
Happiness is what we search for. Often we try to be happy with the materialistic gains. Little do we realise that the real happiness is not in money or anything that could be earned with money. AIR has enlightened the readers through his book. Author provides us realisation of the real happiness and how we shall attain it. Author has cited a few exercises for the readers in recognising what makes us happy and analyses the same. Realising the happiness trigger and pulling them is the simple solution to be happy. Simultaneously Joy stealers need to be avoided to attain the happiness. Author has also given an exercise in realising what are our joy stealers.
Achievement, Fulfilment and Liberalisation are the three peaks of happiness. However, the three points are not what we see on the periphery. Author has indulged into an in depth analysis. What makes this book stand out is that it is not out and out spirituality book. It deals with the reality clubbed with spirituality. Often the spirituality books deal with people who are looking for happiness after attaining everything else in life but this books seamlessly merges the struggles in your life with spirituality. This indeed is the highlight of the book.
The narration is simple and relatable. The book has a wide target audience. The ones who stay away from spirituality and philosophy will also be able to finish the book with utmost interest.
Verdict
Spitiruality clubbed with reality.
Scenario :4 /5Narration :4 /5Relevance :4/5Research :4.5/5
Entertainment Quotient:4/5
This review is in return of a free book from the publisher
June 25, 2018
Monika Thakur is planning a sequel. In conversation with the author of The Secret of Sculptures
Meeting new people opens the door for new experiences,new infornmation and new energy. Once such energy house is with us. Let's meet Monika Thakur, the author of 'The Secret of Sculptures'
Hi Monika, thank you for your time. Welcome to the virtual tete a tete. You are ever so energetic. What makes you maintain your energy?
Thank you for the compliment. Life these days can be hectic for everyone, as we all have so many demands on our time. Eating healthy and keeping regular habits such as walking, jogging, yoga and meditation help to maintain good energy levels.
What is your experience with Indian sculpture?
I have travelled across India and during these travels, visiting important historical and architectural sites has always been on the list of things to do. Without being a technical expert on the subject, I have always marvelled at the majesty and beauty of these creations. What art and labour of love must have gone into carving these graceful figures in stone. They have the capacity to draw us into their long lost worlds, even today.
Do you believe that there could be supernatural powers in the unearthed treasures?
Well, we sometimes believe that some places, objects and people are imbued with good energy or a particular kind of energy. We like to believe that good things or certain kinds of things, result from association with them. For example, some places may be associated with making money, others with art and creativity etc. People say there is something in the air of such places. So, the story in my book draws on such ideas.
Our traditional stories are full of supernatural beings and events and they are enjoyed by many people. They are also an inspiration.
When did you realise that there is a writer in you?
There are many books that I have enjoyed reading. There are the classics, the masterpieces and also the commercial fiction which I read quite happily. Yet, I feel that there are still many more stories to be told. Therefore, I decided to make the attempt to write stories myself.
The beginning of the book gives an impression of the beginning of an out and out love story but later it was not developed much. Was that intentional?
Yes, that was intentional, as I set out to write a fantasy adventure. Initially there was no plan for a romance angle. But I was advised to have one and I also felt that it would be a natural part of the life of youngsters to be interested in romance and have such experiences, so it is there in the story. However, I did not want it to be centre stage and distract from the suspense or sense of adventure. Another reason for keeping it light is that too often, the presence of a female in a story is explained in terms of a romance, but I did not want that for my protagonists. Being the central characters, it is necessary for their story to encompass more than that.
That's a novel idea which many of your contemporaries lack.
The climax is open for a sequel. Are you planning one?
Yes, there is a sequel. Some things come to light at the end of the book, others remain hidden in the shadows. The protagonists must find their way and unravel the secrets in more than one book. Hopefully, the next one will venture into territory that explains some things the first one did not.
What is your advice to the aspiring authors?
The only advice I can give is to go ahead and write if you enjoy writing or feel you have a story to tell or that you are witty etc.
How can the readers reach you?
I am present on social media - @MonikaTHKR on twitter and FB and as @monikaauthor on Instagram. I am also a goodreads author. I will be happy to take questions from readers, though I am unlikely to reveal anything about my next book except that the journey continues.
That was wonderful. Thanks once again for your time.
Hi Monika, thank you for your time. Welcome to the virtual tete a tete. You are ever so energetic. What makes you maintain your energy?
Thank you for the compliment. Life these days can be hectic for everyone, as we all have so many demands on our time. Eating healthy and keeping regular habits such as walking, jogging, yoga and meditation help to maintain good energy levels.
What is your experience with Indian sculpture?
I have travelled across India and during these travels, visiting important historical and architectural sites has always been on the list of things to do. Without being a technical expert on the subject, I have always marvelled at the majesty and beauty of these creations. What art and labour of love must have gone into carving these graceful figures in stone. They have the capacity to draw us into their long lost worlds, even today.
Do you believe that there could be supernatural powers in the unearthed treasures?
Well, we sometimes believe that some places, objects and people are imbued with good energy or a particular kind of energy. We like to believe that good things or certain kinds of things, result from association with them. For example, some places may be associated with making money, others with art and creativity etc. People say there is something in the air of such places. So, the story in my book draws on such ideas.
Our traditional stories are full of supernatural beings and events and they are enjoyed by many people. They are also an inspiration.
When did you realise that there is a writer in you?
There are many books that I have enjoyed reading. There are the classics, the masterpieces and also the commercial fiction which I read quite happily. Yet, I feel that there are still many more stories to be told. Therefore, I decided to make the attempt to write stories myself.
The beginning of the book gives an impression of the beginning of an out and out love story but later it was not developed much. Was that intentional?
Yes, that was intentional, as I set out to write a fantasy adventure. Initially there was no plan for a romance angle. But I was advised to have one and I also felt that it would be a natural part of the life of youngsters to be interested in romance and have such experiences, so it is there in the story. However, I did not want it to be centre stage and distract from the suspense or sense of adventure. Another reason for keeping it light is that too often, the presence of a female in a story is explained in terms of a romance, but I did not want that for my protagonists. Being the central characters, it is necessary for their story to encompass more than that.
That's a novel idea which many of your contemporaries lack.
The climax is open for a sequel. Are you planning one?
Yes, there is a sequel. Some things come to light at the end of the book, others remain hidden in the shadows. The protagonists must find their way and unravel the secrets in more than one book. Hopefully, the next one will venture into territory that explains some things the first one did not.
What is your advice to the aspiring authors?
The only advice I can give is to go ahead and write if you enjoy writing or feel you have a story to tell or that you are witty etc.
How can the readers reach you?
I am present on social media - @MonikaTHKR on twitter and FB and as @monikaauthor on Instagram. I am also a goodreads author. I will be happy to take questions from readers, though I am unlikely to reveal anything about my next book except that the journey continues.
That was wonderful. Thanks once again for your time.
No Strings Attached by Sheila Kumar- Review
Book Name - No Strings Attached Author - Sheila Kumar Publisher - Harlequin (Harpercollins)Buy books from Amazon
Review
Love is complicated and hence provide different shades to a single relationship. It could be love, lust, or adjustment with no strings attached. Sheila Kumar has brought to the readers a sizzling complicated love story.
Neena Sabarwwal is taken unawares when Samar Pratap Singh, popularly known as Hearbreaker Singh, shows interest in her. Despite the restraint that she imposed on herself, Neena could not help herself from falling in love with the gorgeous man. Things become tough when Karishma Jhalla, Samar's rumoured fiancee leaves no stone unturned in proclaiming that Samar Pratap is all hers. The fact that Samar's mother and aunt don't approve of their relation makes it quite difficult for her. Tired of the emotional turbulence, Neena decides to call it quits. Will she be able to be away from Samar? Will Samar let her go away from his life?
The book has all the spices for a sizzling romance. A dashing boyfriend who is not short of a celebrity, a gorgeous girlfriend from an unrelated background, a dominating childhood friend who is termed the fiancee, a self edified mother in law, a condescending aunt and a corporate firm. There are a lot of possibilities for a writer to showcase their talent.
The book will definitely entice the Mills and Boons lovers but the plot is full of cliches. The points which give possibilities in turn comes out as cliches as well. The whole storyline is predictable since it follows the same pattern of a puppy romance.
Verdict
Sizzling Love Story full of cliches
Scenario: 3 /5Narration :4 /5Character : 3/5Entertainment Quotient: 3.5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the publisher
June 23, 2018
The Secret of the Sculptures by Monika Thakur- Review
Book Name - The Secret of the Sculptures Author - Monika Thakur Publisher - Notion PressBuy books from Amazon
Review
India has a very rich history and culture. Hence historical fiction and historical fantasy never fails to provide subjects to the writers. Author Monika Thakur has come up with a very interesting and unique interpretation of the history and sculptures.
Aditi and Maitreyi are best friends. Little did they know that their visit to Aditi's college would land them up in a controversial situation where they are prime suspects. They get involved in the theft of a priceless sculpture.
The book is a mix of different genres. The book could be categorised as a historical fiction, romance, fantasy and thriller. The multifarious genres and sub plots are connected seamlessly thereby giving the readers a magnificent literary experience. The pace of the book is quite fast and author has succeeded in maintaining the interest of the readers by switching the scenarios at the right time. The new characters that are introduced in between merge in with the plot. The fantasy experience of the girls is brief yet engaging. Initially it might look like unwanted but further the scenario justifies itself towards the climax.
The tiny wave of romance in the plot makes it interesting. Author has made sure that it doesn't go overboard so as to affect the mood of the book. The narration is above average but occasionally switches from a professional to amateur one, which could have rectified with a round of editing.
Verdict
Overall the book is unique, engaging and refereshing.
Scenario: 4 /5Narration : 4/5Character : 4.5 /5Entertainment Quotient: 4.5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the author.
June 18, 2018
Scholastic Encyclopedia of Dinosaurs by Scholastic
Book Name - Scholastic Encyclopedia of Dinosaurs Publisher - Scholastic Buy books from Amazon
Review
Dinosaurs have always been the greatest kids' fantasy. In fact the history of Dinosaurs is what interests kids and adults alike. Scholastic Encyclopedia of Dinosaurs is an exemplary book on types of Dinosaurs and their history. It had come to a point that what we know now about Dinosaurs is only what we have seen in series of Jurassic movies.
The books gives a brief introduction of the beginning of life and there is a brief note about the Mesozoic era or Age of Reptiles. My five year old son and seven year old daughter now know about palaeontology and fossils. The bright attractive illustrations are sure to attract the kids irrespective of ages and it gives a very clear visual image which could not be provided by any electronic gadget.
In an era when kids are getting farther from books, designing an encyclopedia about Dinosaurs is a very difficult job but Scholastic has effortlessly crafted the book such that the kids would be forced to keep their gadgets and indulge in knowledgeable books. Addition of Indian Dinosaurs is the highlight of the book. I have never given a thought on this till I got hold of the book. I am not exaggerating when I say that my kids want this book instead of their bedtime stories.
Verdict
An entertaining encyclopedia.
Scenario. : 5 /5Narration : 5 /5Relevance : 5/5
Research : 5/5
Entertainment Quotient: 5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the publisher
Love a Little Stronger by Preeti Shenoy
Book Name - Love a Little Stronger Author - Preeti Shenoy Publisher - Srishti Publications Buy books from Amazon
Review
If you have been following my reviews, you would have noticed by now that I don't personalise my reviews. But Love a Little Stronger is way too personal becuase almost every chapter in the book was relatable and I was continuously giggling while reating which made my daughter ask me why I am laughing so much. She even wanted me to tell one of the stories in the book as a bedtime story.
The book is divided into different parts- Parental Trap, Life Love and Laughter, Hey Brother, Love a Little Stronger, and Be the Best You Can Be. Each part has a theme that the title is representative of. Each chapter is an anecdote from her life.
She has started off with the tale of her special friend who was way too elder to her and was married but remained her friend forever. The climax of the chapter would melt any heart. John Cena Vs Daddy too hilarious that I have been giggling and chuckling like a teenager. From there we take off for a quirky, pesky,risky ride of emotions. We laugh with them, cry with them but more of the laughter sessions remain. It has been the first time I have been laughing while reading a book.
While narrating the incidents with her daughter there have been sequences where author seemingly spread an idea of concurring with everything they demand, which was apparently a put off than a cute experience. But this is a very personal and judgemental observation of a mother who believs that kids should take no from their parents. Apart from this every chapter every instance is purely entertaining.
Verdict
The best book of Preeti Shenoy that I have read. (I haven't read 34 bubblegums and candies)
Scenario: 4 /5Narration : 5 /5Relevance : 5 /5
Research :3.5/5
Entertainment Quotient: 4.5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the publisher
June 17, 2018
Last train to Istambul by Ayşe Kulin -Review
Book Name - Last Train to Istambul Author - Ayşe Kulin Publisher - Amazon CrossingBuy books from Amazon
Review
The injustices towards Jews during the second world has been known to almost everyone and there have been books about the experiences of Jews in camps. But little has been written about the diplomats and government officials who have helped many Jews to flee from the pondering Germans.
Ayşe Kulin has crafted an exemplary tale on the background of the second world War. Eventhough the story is primarily about Selva, a Muslim and Rafael, a Jew who fell in love with each other and fled their homeland Turkey in order to be far from their estranged parents, slowly the books takes a different path of how the Jews in France are transported to Turkey and how the government officials risked everything to make this possible.
Author has deftly distributed equal space to all characters, both big and small. The repercussions of Selva's marriage in her parents and sister's lives is what the plot takes off with. Sabiha's complicated relation with her husband,daughter and Tarik, whom she teached French is a subplot which eclipses the main plot but towards the second half Sabiha is nowhere to be seen.
A detailed account of the train journey from France to Turkey is a tricky scenario. It could make the book an exceptional piece for those who are looking for to a core historical fiction but it could be simultaneously boring for the ones who expect a historical love story. Author has taken care of the minute details and has narrated the gruesome experience without giving an eerie feeling yet conveying the animosity without fail.
Verdict
Targets a niche yet wide audience.
Scenario: 5 /5Narration : 5 /5Character : 5/5Entertainment Quotient: 5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the publisher
June 15, 2018
Book blitz- Killer Moves by Varsha Dixit
Killer MovesbyVarsha Dixit
BlurbEveryone has a secret. Aisha Khatri has many!
Aisha’s life is seemingly mundane on the surface-she writes for television and takes care of her niece Kiara and her retired father. But when Kiara’s life is threatened during a modeling assignment for the famous Kabir Rana, once a suspect for his wife’s murder, the only way Aisha can save Kiara is by accepting the unique ability she has aggressively resisted all her life.
But Aisha is not the only one with secrets. There are others who have secrets and will kill to keep them. Aisha is determined to protect Kiara even if it means placing herself in the crosshairs of a depraved killer who butchers beautiful girls and leaves them as grotesque displays.
Is Kiara a target of a serial killer or is the killer closer to home-and Aisha’s heart?
Who is Kabir Rana? An elusive and moody fashion photographer burdened with a dark past or a murderer who got away?
How will Aisha save Kiara from a killer who is several steps ahead of an entire city’s police force? When the dead come calling, will Aisha answer?
From the bustling streets of Goa to the beautiful palaces of Sirsa, Killer Moves is a fast-paced, gripping, romantic suspense tale with strong thriller and supernatural elements.
Grab your copy @
Amazon.com | Amazon.in | Amazon.co.uk
About the author
Varsha Dixit, the best selling author of six successful contemporary romance books. Her debut book, Right Fit Wrong Shoe was a national bestseller for the year 2010. Varsha was a part of the Indian Television Industry and worked as an assistant director and online editor. She considers herself a dreamer who thinks deep but writes light. Even though creativity is gender free,Varsha feels blessed and enriched to be a woman.Currently, with her family, Varsha resides in CA, USA.
You can stalk her @
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June 12, 2018
The Coin by Sandeep Sharma-Review
Book Name - The Coin Author - Sandeep Sharma Publisher - Redgrab books & AnybookBuy books from Amazon
Review
Sandeep Sharma is a master of thrillers. He knows how to lay a foundation of suspense and how to build up from there. Coin is yet another testimony of his talent.
Raunak Upadhyay, is challenged by a series murders which he finds similar to the one he had solved years back. While he indulges more into the investigation, he realises that the murdered is particularly trying to reach up to him through the videos in which he says a story to the victim before killing them. Raunak has his demons to fight for and the serial killer makes the wounds raw when he refreshes the memories.
Apart from the suspense behind the killer, the suspense about the past of Raunak has also been dealt with deftly. A communion of the two parallel plots make the book all more engaging. There are no larger than life action sequences. Nonetheless author has managed to give an adrenalin pump to the readers. Often murder murder mysteries would have an obvious ending or ends up in such a way that completely unrelated character suddenly appears. Here, the author has maneuvered the subplots and things fall into place in the end.
The turn of events in the climax lacked a background, though. This affects the overall mood of the book and makes the plot unbelievable in several levels. There were a few glitches in the grammar which could be damaging to the whole book.
Verdict
Overall the book is pretty good murder mystery.
Scenario: 3.5 /5Narration : 4/5Character : 3 /5Entertainment Quotient:3.5/5
This review is in return of a free book from the author.
