Rakhi Jayashankar's Blog, page 94
December 16, 2015
The review of Disappointed by K.V. Raghupathy
Book Name : DisappointedAuthor : K.V.RaghupathyPublisher : Cyberwit.netNumber of Pages : 142
Publishing Year : 2014
Edition : PaperbackRating : 4.0
BlurbHis story combined with dismay and disappointment, disgust and contempt, hatred and strange feelings produced in me some unique sensation and I left with indelible impressions of that old man. As I rode I felt how certain chance and unexpected and accidental meetings and certain inexplicable and indescribable combination of events and situations speak a great amount of the quintessence of human life.
My Review
Disappointed is the second book in the trilogy by KV Raghupathy. The book, like his first book Invalid, is a protest against the societal pressures and double standard. Author claims that fictional element is lessnin this book. The book is about the two encounters of the author with Jagannatha Rao a bank officer. The first encounter is the conversation between author and JR. JR says the society is judgmental and the people are opportunistic. He says his life story to KV, whom he met few hours before.
Initially, I had an impression that JR is paranoid but later we can see that he had succumbed to the ratnrace of life. There had been a time when people who think different are isolated and looked down upon. If we look around, we can see many Fathers or husbands who become dejected when they reaches retirement age. We never bothered to assess the real problem but this book, goes through those nuances of psychology but implicitly. Unlike Invalid, this book is full of conversation, though mainly monologues.The book is not an easy read. It is an in depth book for a serious reader.The book targets a niche audience.
HighlightsThere is a powerful message in the book. The fact that author wrote this book thirty years back surprised me because the writing style is unconventional and contemporary at the same time. The character portrayal of JR is implicit and convincing.
DrawbacksDuring the conversation between KV and JR, reader gets confused as to who is speaking to whom. Same issue with the switch from past to present. But, these instances are less since it is more of a monologue.
One Liner
An unconventional and contemporary piece of writing.
Avail the book from Cyberwit About the author
Born in 1957, K.V.Raghupathi has been writing for nearly three decades. 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 philosophyReviewed for the publisher
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Though I was born to be a master eventually I ended as a public servant , says Harihar Panda
Welcome all.
Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Harihar Panda author of Godhuli.
Hi Sir
Thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background?
I was born in a landlord’s family in Odisha in the year 1932. It was a momentous period in the Indian history when the nationalist movement was gaining unprecedented momentum. I too lived through the horrors and devastation of the Second World War. I witnessed the dawn of Indian independence as well as the collapse of the Zamindari system which thrived and sustained the British rule in India for over two centuries.
How do you view the present India as a person who had been in service?
Though I was born to be a master eventually I ended as a public servant and this reversal of role was a welcome release for me from a cloistered life of exclusiveness and sham respectability which I had to live in my childhood as the heir apparent to the mighty landlord. Public service is an essential profession on whose efficiency and integrity the progress and prosperity of India depends. It often grieves me to see even after six decades of independence there is still a propensity to rule rather than to serve.
Tell us about your journey in the literary journal? What is the name of the journal.
My wife who was a prolific writer in Odisha founded and edited a monthly literary magazine in Odia language, named ‘ Sucharita’. After my exit from Government service I took over the entire management of the publication leaving my wife to concentrate on the literary aspect of the journal more effectively.
Please give a brief sneak peek about Godhuli
Godhuli is a nostalgic recollection of my childhood days as the son of a Zamindar. It gives a vivid picture of a socio-economic system that was considered so essential in an alien rule in India and of course so irrelevant in a modern democratic State that India is now.
How was it to be treated as Zamindar's son?
In the past it was a pride to be born in a Zamindar’s family. Certain values such as discipline, decorum and a sense of dignity were inculcated into the life of a Zamindar’s son from the very birth. It is true that some Zamindars were capricious and a few were despotic, but there were many positive examples. I was lucky to be born to a Zamindar, who was whimsical, but was paternalistic to the tenants in hours of need.
When did you decide to write the auto biographical account?
My grand children used to demand persistently that I must tell them stories of my childhood. While narrating certain incidents and events of my childhood days I could perceive their utter disbelief in the veracity of the story. Suddenly it struck me that the stark reality of the past is certainly degenerating into a fantasy and I I decided to recreate the lost glory of the past so that history must not die.
Which writers inspire you?
From my childhood I was an avid reader of world classics of which my father had a rich collection. I loved the writings of great literary masters. My only hobby in life has been reading and writing.
So, what have you written?
After Godhuli, I am now working on a mythological novel.
How was your publishing journey?
I am fortunate that the manuscript of Godhuli was accepted by the first publisher I approached. They were cordial and cooperative.
What is your favourite motivational phrase.
Let not history be lost in oblivion.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Listen to all, but act yourself.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
I would like my elderly readers to rediscover themselves while reading Godhuli and the younger ones to be amused and thrilled.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
By personal contact of course.
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.
Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Harihar Panda author of Godhuli.
Hi Sir
Thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background?
I was born in a landlord’s family in Odisha in the year 1932. It was a momentous period in the Indian history when the nationalist movement was gaining unprecedented momentum. I too lived through the horrors and devastation of the Second World War. I witnessed the dawn of Indian independence as well as the collapse of the Zamindari system which thrived and sustained the British rule in India for over two centuries.
How do you view the present India as a person who had been in service?
Though I was born to be a master eventually I ended as a public servant and this reversal of role was a welcome release for me from a cloistered life of exclusiveness and sham respectability which I had to live in my childhood as the heir apparent to the mighty landlord. Public service is an essential profession on whose efficiency and integrity the progress and prosperity of India depends. It often grieves me to see even after six decades of independence there is still a propensity to rule rather than to serve.
Tell us about your journey in the literary journal? What is the name of the journal.
My wife who was a prolific writer in Odisha founded and edited a monthly literary magazine in Odia language, named ‘ Sucharita’. After my exit from Government service I took over the entire management of the publication leaving my wife to concentrate on the literary aspect of the journal more effectively.
Please give a brief sneak peek about Godhuli
Godhuli is a nostalgic recollection of my childhood days as the son of a Zamindar. It gives a vivid picture of a socio-economic system that was considered so essential in an alien rule in India and of course so irrelevant in a modern democratic State that India is now.
How was it to be treated as Zamindar's son?
In the past it was a pride to be born in a Zamindar’s family. Certain values such as discipline, decorum and a sense of dignity were inculcated into the life of a Zamindar’s son from the very birth. It is true that some Zamindars were capricious and a few were despotic, but there were many positive examples. I was lucky to be born to a Zamindar, who was whimsical, but was paternalistic to the tenants in hours of need.
When did you decide to write the auto biographical account?
My grand children used to demand persistently that I must tell them stories of my childhood. While narrating certain incidents and events of my childhood days I could perceive their utter disbelief in the veracity of the story. Suddenly it struck me that the stark reality of the past is certainly degenerating into a fantasy and I I decided to recreate the lost glory of the past so that history must not die.
Which writers inspire you?
From my childhood I was an avid reader of world classics of which my father had a rich collection. I loved the writings of great literary masters. My only hobby in life has been reading and writing.
So, what have you written?
After Godhuli, I am now working on a mythological novel.
How was your publishing journey?
I am fortunate that the manuscript of Godhuli was accepted by the first publisher I approached. They were cordial and cooperative.
What is your favourite motivational phrase.
Let not history be lost in oblivion.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Listen to all, but act yourself.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
I would like my elderly readers to rediscover themselves while reading Godhuli and the younger ones to be amused and thrilled.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
By personal contact of course.
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.
Review of solitude and other poems by Rajender Krishan
Book Name : Solitude and other poemsAuthor : Rajender Krishan
Publisher : CyberwitNumber of Pages : 135
Publishing Year : 2013
Edition : HardbackRating : 4.0
Blurb
Seizing the spirit of a difficult and confusing age and conscious of the momentous and crucial challenges in thepost-modern era, the poet with an originality of evocative images mesmerizes, discarding obscure and ingeniously intelligible sophistication of urbane characteristics. Occasional surge of rhythmic language and love for realism permeates his poetry. Treatment of imperceptible meanderings into world of the known and the unknown engages and excites. Varied experiences gathered, amaze as words create music in a nostalgic orb. Celebration of instinctive love for literature, tradition and religion is apparent, as refined worldly outlook of poet makes lyrics memorable. Some of the poems in this book disturbingly depict the damage caused to the society by people s exploitation, violence and avarice for material comforts. The poet views Women as saviors of life, art, culture and heritage so he feels upset by the fact that many men are cruel and bestial towards them. The poet observes that Selfishness mutilates relationships, as warmth turns frigid. Through his poetry, the poet also raises questions about life and death and its metaphysical implications. A man thinks he is somewhere but alas, he is nowhere, for he is perpetually engulfed by feelings of emptiness. If a man desires to merge with the Lord, he must discover the true meaning of silence and solitude. This lucid moment of discovery, understanding and realization can then usher in freedom and harmony to his life, such is the missive given by Rajender Krishan s poetry which is gentle, lyrical and thought-provoking.
My ReviewSolitude and other poems is a collection of sixty poems. Author has written about prodigious topics in the book. The poems are spiritual, philosophical, romantic, political and more. The main subject of the poems is attainment of ultimate spirituality. Poems on finding the fullness in nothingness, understanding the philosophy of 'I am that', attaining Nirvana etc can be predominantly seen in the book.
Poets attachment with and love for his wife, his cry for preservation of nature, protest against the double standards of the society, utter disgust on terrorism, rape and other social evils etc are the other main topics.
Poet has not been strictly into maintaining the rules of meter nor figures of speech, nevertheless the poems are all rhythmic and musical. I will name a few poems which excited me.
Core of the onion is a spiritual bliss so is Solitude, breathe, speech, hunger, realization, lines, crossroads, freedom, what I am, tat tatvam asi etc. The Hindu obligation is his protest against burning of trees during Hindu rituals. When intercourse explains absolute nothingness, nirvana renders the ultimate sexual pleasure.
What exited me the poem reflection written by the poet for his wife and her reply poem. Changing face of man, Struggling workers, Irony, death in kinder garten, nirbhaya, mortification, kill the devil etc are poet's lament on the social evils. The poem politics teach us that we ourselves should abstain from lying if we want our children to be honest.All in all the book was like a feast of spicy sweets. Most of the poems where subjective. The illustrations in the book are really good but there is one thing I did not like at all. Some pages just had illustrations, that too up to one-fourth of the page. The poet being a nature lover and an advocate of reforestation should was taken care not to waste the pages like this. As insinuated in the poem politics we should act our words.
One LinerA collection of peoms rich in music, imagery, anger, love, passion, lust and spirituality
Avail the book from Cyberwit
About the author
Born in 1951, Rajender Krishan (aka Raj Chowdhry), had his primary and middle school education in Bal Bharati and Air Force School, then passed his matriculation from Punjab University and completed his graduation from Delhi University, India. He has extensive experience of working in poultry farming, advertising, sales and marketing, antique reproduction and real estate consultancy. In 1989, he migrated to New York, USA with his wife Meera Chowdhry and two children – Anmol and Chandrika. Rajender Krishan believes in the freedom of expression and is an admirer of the poet seer Kabir. He is passionate about Poetry, Photography and Visual Art. He loves to share his thoughts with hundreds of writers - poets, journalists, novelists, critics and artists through his website Boloji.com
Reviewed for the publisher
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The review of Curse of Damini by Debajani Mohanty
Book Name : The Curse of DaminiAuthor : Debajani Mohanty
Publisher : Partridge PublishersNumber of Pages : 185
Publishing Year : 2015
Edition : PaperbackRating : 4.5
BlurbThe world seemed not enough for free spirited Renuka, when she married the highly educated Shashank hailing from the mightiest Zamindars of Bengal. However, soon her life turned upside down when a neighbor revealed her of their sinister past.
It’s a mysterious supernatural curse cast on their family almost a century back. Generation by generation, Damini's enraged curse had passed on, declining their family clan from hundreds to a handful few. Who would be Damini's next victim? And why innocent lives are at a stake for a crime committed by an ancestor a hundred years back? Renuka would not settle until she finds an answer and in her quest she struggles to eradicate all the evils that come in her way. Would she ever win a battle against an unseen enemy? Would the wrong done to Damini be ever avenged?
Set against the nostalgic era of 1940s, the story narrates the arduous journey of Renuka Pal, the protagonist, from a rash teen age freedom fighter to the seasoned writer of the 21st century India. In this thrilling saga of death, betrayal and power plays the narrative would cover a large chunk of twentieth century history. The passing of time, historical events and the changing country is so well-woven to the story that one would hardly differentiate between fact and fiction.
My ReviewWhy I did not include Plot and Character section is that the plot is too vast and if I say more, it would end up as a spoiler and so is the cast.
The Curse of Damini is a historical fiction. The story of Renuka a headstrong, talented, lovable girl. Renuka is shocked to learn that her marital family is cursed by a girl called Damini, who committed suicide a hundred years back, to escape from being raped by one of the forefathers of Renuka's husband.
While I read the blurb and the first chapters I thought that it is a horror novel. But No. It is a historical fiction. We can see authoress's take on every historical events right from Sepoy mutiny, World war, Quit India movement, Independence, Communal Riots, Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, abolition of Zamindari, Sati and Child marriage to the Nirbhaya case. There is a strong voice of protest against the cruelties towards women. The protagonist is a strong feminist but I would not categorize this book as a feminist novel. For those who say Indians can write only romance, I ask them to buy and read this book. A vast research can be seen in the book. I have posted the review of autobiographical account of a zamindar's son last month. I can say that this book complies with the realities shown by him.
From the thirties to the twenty first century, women are exploited, raped and trodden but not all men are the same. Authoress made this point through the character portrayal of Shashank and Anirudh.
HighlightsThe story line is plausibly strong. Character crafting is exemplary. The pace of the story is very consistent. The book has the power to grab the readers and force them to hook to it. I had goosebumps while reading the penultimate chapter. What more should I say? If you like history, romance, rebellion or mystery, you will love this book. This is all in one. And yes, it was contemporary relevance too. Editors have done a good job. The book had practically no errors. Writing style is simple but with strong mettle.
DrawbacksIt might sound silly but the overuse of the word 'however' was like an eyesore. The last chapter was rushed. The ending was good but abrupt.
One LinerA thrilling, exciting, and riveting saga of Renuka
Avail the book from AMAZON & FLIPKARTAbout the author
Debajani Mohanty is an engineering graduate and senior I.T. professional with a career of nearly one and half decades. Her interests include music, history, world cuisines and women education & empowerment. The nature of her work as well as passion for different cultures has made her travel half of the living world.
“The Curse of Damini” her debut novel is a supernatural thriller and a semi-fiction that covers many age-old vices against women. She started writing this 2.5 years back after the barbaric Nirbhaya episode of Delhi and her work is a small effort towards ending the violence and discrimination against women in society.
Debajani is married and lives in Delhi/NCR with her husband and two daughters.
Reviewed for wordit marketing
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
December 14, 2015
Every responsible writer has an unsaid connection with the geo-political scenario around, Says Tushar Sen, Author of Pandora's Box
Hi all,
Today I have a unique voice, a responsible writer with me. The author of a book that mesmerized me with the imagery and unexpected twists.
Please Welcome Tushar Sen, author of Pandora’s Box.
Hi Tushar,
Welcome to my virtual teté-a-teté
Tell us about the journey of a banker to a writer.
My romance with writing began a decade ago when I started writing short stories for magazines and contests. Though I took sometime to take that leap of faith. I'm still a banker by the day and a writer thereafter. I believe the journey has just begun.
How did your interest in Geo-Political Scenario develop?
I believe every responsible writer has an unsaid connection with the geo-political scenario around, because it shapes the fabric of development and civic order of every nation. No one is insulated from the repercussions of a deteriorating geo-political situation world over. I therefore felt compelled to write about such issues and let my readers experience hard hitting tales that will urge them to be more compassionate and responsibly responsive to world disarray.
Do you have specific political inclination?
I believe in development and progress of humankind. I believe in providing food to every citizen than enforcing what they can or cannot eat. I believe in fueling power plants to lighten up villages rather than fueling vehicles to outer space. I believe political and religious leaders are meant to unite people and not otherwise.
Where did the imagery of the stories like WWI come to your mind?
That's an interesting question, actually the idea first germinated in my mind when I wrote my poem the spider's wedding and then later heard about the story of actrurus constellation and oysters. The Free Fall was the first story in this series. I wanted to experiment story telling from a different perspective, one that goes unnoticed mostly even right under our noses. Also, it makes a reader weave a different story while reading and the twist in the end makes her read it again with a different perspective. The revelation in the end serves well as a surprise element and a second reading then seems like putting up LEGO pieces referring a manual.
How much research do you do?
The foundation of any story inspired by true events is - research. Doing extensive research is easy in this age of Web 2.0, what's difficult is making sense of the exhaustive data and weave a story that might appeal to a larger audience. My research is thorough to the extent that I make my characters jump off the page to dazzle my readers.
What made you decide to sit down and actually start something?
It started as an anthology of my work; the short stories I had written for magazines and contests. But then they weren't sufficient for a book sized collection, so I decided to write a book instead. My priority being good narration, shocking but real ending and a gripping tale. Narration makes me anxious, I'm known to re-do /re-work the entire story over and over again if the narration isn't up to the mark to the extent that even my publishers were flustered. Every paragraph I write undergoes a scrutiny and innumerable re-work till it reflects good literature rather than pulp.
Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?
I did a Goodreads giveaway and the response was overwhelming. I did a countdown on facebook and twitter where I released posters of each of my stories everyday. A friend of mine extended her helping hand and ran a contest on instagram.
Why do you think that other well written books just don’t sell?
Authors feel they have arrived in life once their books hit the stores, but the bitter reality is that not many would know his/her book is released. So even if the content is good mankind needs to know it has arrived. Selling is a function of awareness. Rich authors mostly hire PR agencies and the other authors opt for smart shoe-string-budget strategies to publicise their work.
What do you think of “trailers” for books?
Ofcourse, a visual medium works wonders. It instigates curiosity and gives a fair idea about the novel in 90 seconds. What more can you ask for.
Do you have a trailer or do you intend to create one for your own book/s?
Infact I do, it is a 90 second trailer made by me using basic animation softwares, the music however is by my favourite classical composer - Orff. The video caught on very quickly with 40000 views already. You can check out the trailer Here
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
It works when you give away to the right set of audience; voracious readers, reviewers, influential persons, libraries, well-wishers and so on and so forth.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Write well, read it several times and don't approach publishers until you start loving your work. Content is king, re-work on your draft till the time it's devoid of mistakes, critics are mostly fair and not compassionate. The urge to write something different should not overpower a good narration and a story readers would relate to.
Where do you see publishing going in the future?
Future publishing is impatient owing to fierce competition. The window provided to an author to prove himself/herself is getting narrower with time. Having said that, there's silver lining with the growing statistics of kindle and tablet readers.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
Not that there's anything you haven't included, but it's my personal observation that in India very little is done to promote literature, I understand there are budgetary constraints but there can be ways to encourage talent without spending a lot of money. Secondly, our called LitFests need to accommodate fresh talent alongside the veterans.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Readers can always connect with me through twitter, facebook, Goodreads and email (sen.tushar@hotmail.com)
Website: www.panbox.in Facebook: facebook.com/tushar.sen.737 Twitter: @tusharsarojsen
AMAZON. COM : http://goo.gl/awrLS9
BARNES & NOBLE : http://tinyurl.com/on4lour
FLIPKART: http://goo.gl/WkKzZ4
LANDMARK: http://goo.gl/GjkelQ
CROSSWORD: http://goo.gl/0oY6qc
AMAZON.IN: http://goo.gl/mqgvH7
REDIFF: http://goo.gl/iPJHwQ
Goodreads: http://goo.gl/K22nrG
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.
Pleasure :)
Today I have a unique voice, a responsible writer with me. The author of a book that mesmerized me with the imagery and unexpected twists.
Please Welcome Tushar Sen, author of Pandora’s Box.
Hi Tushar,
Welcome to my virtual teté-a-teté
Tell us about the journey of a banker to a writer.
My romance with writing began a decade ago when I started writing short stories for magazines and contests. Though I took sometime to take that leap of faith. I'm still a banker by the day and a writer thereafter. I believe the journey has just begun.
How did your interest in Geo-Political Scenario develop?
I believe every responsible writer has an unsaid connection with the geo-political scenario around, because it shapes the fabric of development and civic order of every nation. No one is insulated from the repercussions of a deteriorating geo-political situation world over. I therefore felt compelled to write about such issues and let my readers experience hard hitting tales that will urge them to be more compassionate and responsibly responsive to world disarray.
Do you have specific political inclination?
I believe in development and progress of humankind. I believe in providing food to every citizen than enforcing what they can or cannot eat. I believe in fueling power plants to lighten up villages rather than fueling vehicles to outer space. I believe political and religious leaders are meant to unite people and not otherwise.
Where did the imagery of the stories like WWI come to your mind?
That's an interesting question, actually the idea first germinated in my mind when I wrote my poem the spider's wedding and then later heard about the story of actrurus constellation and oysters. The Free Fall was the first story in this series. I wanted to experiment story telling from a different perspective, one that goes unnoticed mostly even right under our noses. Also, it makes a reader weave a different story while reading and the twist in the end makes her read it again with a different perspective. The revelation in the end serves well as a surprise element and a second reading then seems like putting up LEGO pieces referring a manual.
How much research do you do?
The foundation of any story inspired by true events is - research. Doing extensive research is easy in this age of Web 2.0, what's difficult is making sense of the exhaustive data and weave a story that might appeal to a larger audience. My research is thorough to the extent that I make my characters jump off the page to dazzle my readers.
What made you decide to sit down and actually start something?
It started as an anthology of my work; the short stories I had written for magazines and contests. But then they weren't sufficient for a book sized collection, so I decided to write a book instead. My priority being good narration, shocking but real ending and a gripping tale. Narration makes me anxious, I'm known to re-do /re-work the entire story over and over again if the narration isn't up to the mark to the extent that even my publishers were flustered. Every paragraph I write undergoes a scrutiny and innumerable re-work till it reflects good literature rather than pulp.
Did you do a press release, Goodreads book launch or anything else to promote your work and did it work?
I did a Goodreads giveaway and the response was overwhelming. I did a countdown on facebook and twitter where I released posters of each of my stories everyday. A friend of mine extended her helping hand and ran a contest on instagram.
Why do you think that other well written books just don’t sell?
Authors feel they have arrived in life once their books hit the stores, but the bitter reality is that not many would know his/her book is released. So even if the content is good mankind needs to know it has arrived. Selling is a function of awareness. Rich authors mostly hire PR agencies and the other authors opt for smart shoe-string-budget strategies to publicise their work.
What do you think of “trailers” for books?
Ofcourse, a visual medium works wonders. It instigates curiosity and gives a fair idea about the novel in 90 seconds. What more can you ask for.
Do you have a trailer or do you intend to create one for your own book/s?
Infact I do, it is a 90 second trailer made by me using basic animation softwares, the music however is by my favourite classical composer - Orff. The video caught on very quickly with 40000 views already. You can check out the trailer Here
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
It works when you give away to the right set of audience; voracious readers, reviewers, influential persons, libraries, well-wishers and so on and so forth.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Write well, read it several times and don't approach publishers until you start loving your work. Content is king, re-work on your draft till the time it's devoid of mistakes, critics are mostly fair and not compassionate. The urge to write something different should not overpower a good narration and a story readers would relate to.
Where do you see publishing going in the future?
Future publishing is impatient owing to fierce competition. The window provided to an author to prove himself/herself is getting narrower with time. Having said that, there's silver lining with the growing statistics of kindle and tablet readers.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
Not that there's anything you haven't included, but it's my personal observation that in India very little is done to promote literature, I understand there are budgetary constraints but there can be ways to encourage talent without spending a lot of money. Secondly, our called LitFests need to accommodate fresh talent alongside the veterans.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Readers can always connect with me through twitter, facebook, Goodreads and email (sen.tushar@hotmail.com)
Website: www.panbox.in Facebook: facebook.com/tushar.sen.737 Twitter: @tusharsarojsen
AMAZON. COM : http://goo.gl/awrLS9
BARNES & NOBLE : http://tinyurl.com/on4lour
FLIPKART: http://goo.gl/WkKzZ4
LANDMARK: http://goo.gl/GjkelQ
CROSSWORD: http://goo.gl/0oY6qc
AMAZON.IN: http://goo.gl/mqgvH7
REDIFF: http://goo.gl/iPJHwQ
Goodreads: http://goo.gl/K22nrG
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.
Pleasure :)
December 13, 2015
Have fun, Think a lot, feel free; Review of The house that BJ built by Anuja Chauhan
Book Name : The House That BJ BuiltAuthor : Anuja Chauhan
Publisher : Westland
Number of Pages : 410Publishing Year : 2015
Edition : Paperback
Rating : 4.0
Blurb
But what to do about her four pushy aunts who are insisting she sell? One is bald and stingy, one is jobless and manless, one needs the money to 'save the nation' and one is stepmother to Bonus childhood crush-brilliant young Bollywood director Samar Vir Singh, who promised BJ upon his deathbed that he would get the house sold, divvy the money equally and end all the bickering within the family.
The first word baby Bonu ever spoke was 'Balls' and indeed, she is ballsy, bullshit-intolerant, brave and beautiful. But is she strong enough to weather emotional blackmail by the spadefull? Not to mention shady builders, wily politicians, spies, lies and the knee-buckling hotness of Samars intense eyes? Sharply observed and pulse-quickeningly romantic, this is Anuja Chauhan writing at her sparkling best!I'll make my sisters squirm like well-salted earthworms. I won't sell. Even my jutti wont sell. And if I die na, then even my gosht won't sell! The late Binodini Thakur had been very clear that she would never agree to sell her hissa in her Bauji's big old house on Hailey Road. And her daughter Bonu, is determined to honor her mothers wishes.
Plot
Bonu meets Samar after three years. She realizes that she still breeds the deep felt attraction to her step-cousin that she had towards him. Samar is also attracted to the unique brat of a girl but he pulls himself back since he is already in a relation. In order to avoid unnecessary fights between his Dauhgters, BJ decides to sell the house. But soon after the decision is taken, an unfortunate incident happens. Samar takes the responsibility to sell the house but Bonu is hell bent to protest the sale. Soon other external factors joins hands against the Thakurs to prevent them from selling the house. Bonu decides to keep aside the domestic grudges and help Samar.
As a side track, which later becomes the main track, we can see Samar's career as a director going through a difficult phase where Bonu's business is also at stake. Will they succeed? Will they confess their love? What will happen to the house that BJ built?
Characters
Bonu Singh - Female Protagonist, BJ's Grand daughter.
Samar Vir Singh - Male Protagonist, BJ's Grandson.
Anjini, Chandralekha, Debjani, Eshwari - BJ's daughters
Ashok Narayan Thakur, Bhudevi and Gulab Narayan - BJ's brother and family.
Laxmi Narayan Thakur - BJ
The cast is really vast with characters like Zeeshan Singh, Susan Adams, Tring Brothers, Mustaq, Cougar, Doulat Master, Parveen, the Shekhawats, and more and more
My Review
The House That BJ Built is the sequel of the bestselling novel Those Pricey Thakur Girls by Anuja Chauhan. The sequel is more about Bonu Singh (daughter of Late Binodini Singh) and Samar Vir Singh (stepson of Anjini Singh). The wavering feeling of the step cousins for each other, the problems they face, the solution they imply all are rendered seamlessly.
Highlights
The character build up of Bonu and Samar is so perfect that we can envisage them. Every minute details are taken care of impeccably. Even if the cast is huge, all characters are given due importance. Not even once did I feel why did she bring in this character.
Some instances like Sonu and Samar in the house of the Shekhawat's is rendered palpably. With her writing style she succeeded in giving a 3D projection of the story.
Readers can get a glimpse of the first book so that those who haven't read the prequel would not be stumped.
The book cannot be just classified as a chick lit. It has other dimensions as well. Struggle of Bonu, her illegal but rightful business, exploitation of the Trings by Mustaq, the viral video of Samar and Zeeshan, the cat fight between sisters are all reflections of sleazy reality around us. The cover image is good. Overall the book is worth the money spent.
Drawbacks
Overuse of Hindi words can be seen all through the book. It is fine if concentration is purely on an Indian reader-base but if taken in an international front, a glossary would have done the purpose.The bitchiness between the sisters became over the top at some areas.
One Liner
A Fun read, with a serious thought provoking note.
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About the author
Anuja Chauhan is an Indian author and advertiser. She worked in the advertising agency, JWT India, for over 17 years. She has written 3 novels, The Zoya Factor (2008), Battle For Bittora (October 2010) and Those Pricey Thakur Girls (January 2013). All three books are romances.
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.
December 12, 2015
A touching tale of a girl yearning for father's love
Book Name : CherishedAuthor : Lakshmi Menon
Publisher : Cyberwit.netPublishing Year : 2013
Edition : PaperbackRating : 4.0
BlurbGrishma, accompanied by her father and four month old
baby, boards the train to Delhi to join her husband Praveen. She decides to give him an unexpected visit. Little does she know that her journey will end in havoc to her life. 19 years later, Grishma's daughter Jyothi, longing for her father's love and support, determines to search for him, despite her mother's strong protests. Will Praveen accept her as his daughter? This is the story of Jyothi's pursuit of parental love, which she
considers as her legitimate right.
PlotJyothi, who has never seen her father decides to find him. With a lot of struggle, she finds her father and sneaks out to meet him with the silent support of her local guardian. She learns that he is married with three children. She is exasperated to know how menial misunderstandings developed and shattered her family. How will her mother react to this new found bond? Will her father's new family accept her?
CharactersJyothi- ProtagonistGreeshma- Jyothi's motherPraveen- Jyothi's fatherBharathi Rao- Jyothi's PG(PAYING GUEST) AuntyGreeshma's parents, brother, sister- in-lawPraveen's uncle, cousin.
My ReviewThe book mirrors a grave reality that persists in the society these days. Both girls and boys end up their marital relations for silly misunderstanding, without thinking about the children who are sandwiched between.
HighlightsThe writing style of authoress is really good. The topic is handled with the responsibility it deserves and depicted without even a tinge of exaggeration. The unending craving of Jyothi to find her father and feel his love, touches the hardest hearts. To live without an idea about how one's father looks like or how a father's love feels like is heartbreaking. That too when he is alive.
The flashback where the readers get to know how Greeshma and Praveen separated is explained authentically. Jyoti's teenage character and hatred for her mother reminds us of many daughters who are belligerent towards their mother and finds fault with them.Great care is given in character build up. Each and every characters seem to live before us. The books speaks out loudly about years of experience authoress, as a writer.Book cover, and title is in sink with the story. The book is well edited and proofread.
DrawbacksThe present and past could have been distinguished properly as three parts. Since the past is explained in detail a clear differentiation would have been icing on the cake.
One LinerThe book tell s us how petty egos and immaturity makes us do deeds which are irrevertible.
Avail the book from Cyberwit, AMAZON & FLIPKART
About the author
I have been writing since my teenage days. The Second Choice is my debut novel. It is available in both paperback and in ebook formats. Prior to this, many of my short stories, articles and children's stories have been published. Apart from writing and reading, I also enjoy travel and explore new places, as and when time permits.
Presently, I'm engaged in writing my second novel. I love meeting other writers and getting connected.
All my book details are here on this blog. http://indusww.wordpress.com. When you find time please browse through it.
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.
December 11, 2015
A unique refreshing tale of love, despair, friendship and family
Book Name : When our worlds colllide
Author : Aniesha Brahma
Publisher : General Press
Genre : Fiction/ Romace
Number of Pages : 114
Publishing Year : 2015
Binding/ Edition : Edition
Rating : 4.0
Blurb
Akriti has led a pretty much sheltered life. Zayn has been shuttled from city to city when he was growing up. She is comfortable watching her life from the sidelines. He wants to feel rooted to a place he can call ‘home’. They meet each other quite by chance. And both seize the chance to be someone they both need in their lives: For Zayn, it’s a 'Partner-In-Crime'. For Akriti, someone who just knows how to be there for her… When their worlds collide, It is not what either of them expected it to be. Zayn has a steady girlfriend. And Akriti has a crush on him. What happens when these two become friends? The biggest adventure of their lives? Or the road to heartbreak? What happens when two completely different people collide? Do they become friends? Or, is their friendship doomed from the start? 'When Our Worlds Collide' is the story of two twenty-three-year olds, Who are finally growing up and finding their feet in the world. A tale of friendship and love, crushes and betrayals, messes and second chances, Marriage and divorce… and the elusive happily ever after!
Plot
Akriti is a reserved but fun loving girl. The issues between her parents made her invaginate into her shell. Her only friend is Ayoub. While living a not so interesting life, her world collides with Zayn, whose girlfriend Nimmi is Akriti's old friend. Akriti's simple eventless life becomes complicated when she realizes that she developed a crush towards Zayn. Her world becomes a mess when her father meets her to deliver a shocking announcement. What happens to her father? Will she confess her love to Zayn? Will her friendship with Ayoub take a turn? Read When our worlds collide to get that answer.
Characters
Akriti- Protagonist
Ayoub- Akriti's friend, coworker
Zayn- Akriti's friend, crush
Nimmi- Zayn's girlfriend
Suzanna- HR Of a club, which organized poetry slams.
Akriti's Parents
Akriti's father's second wife anf her children.
My Review
The story of Akriti is a unique refreshing treatment. Unlike the usual love stories, there are no special moments or overworked romance. This is a highly realistic story.
Highlights
The story is the first person narrative of Akriti. The writing style is unique and simple. The imagery in some scenes is commendable. The characters are crafted well. The relation of Akriti with her mother, father, stepmother, Ayoub, Zayn and Suzanna is rendered realistically. Not even at a single point did I feel any exaggeration.
As a reviewer, I used to detach myself from the story and characters but this book succeeded in attaching me to it. I liked the climax. I didn't just like it but I love it. There are no loose ends in the storyline. Instances come one after the other and are weaved tightly.
Drawbacks
Some of the dialogues lacked the depth intended. The introduction of some characters like Rithvik and Aryan were abrupt and without any build up, which made me wondering why this character was personally included. But for the story line their character was inevitable and hence a little more build up could have been better.
Apart from this I could not find much mistakes.
One Liner
A refreshing and unique tale of Akriti, which proves that there are important aspects in life other that just loving someone and getting married.
Avail the book from Amazon
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'); About the Author
Aniesha Brahma holds a MPhil degree in Comparative Literature. She has a Bachelors and a Masters degree in the same subject. She was schooled in Dolna Day School, where she had first discovered her love for writing. Besides writing, she enjoys reading books, blogging, volunteering and of course, listening to music. Visit her blog for more updates.
Reviewed for the b00k r3vi3w Tours
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book as a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
December 10, 2015
A bouncy trip through literary brillance.- Review of Pandora's Box by Tushar Sen
Book Name : Pandora's Box
Author : Tushar Sen
Publisher : Frog Books(Leadstart Publishing)
Number of Pages : 165
Publishing Year : 2015
Binding/Edition : Paperback
Rating : 4.0
BlurbPandora's Box is a collection of tales that have woven reality and
fiction together to serve to the reader spine chilling narratives and
jaw dropping climaxes. Most of the stories are inspired by real life
incidents and characters – like Saddam Hussein's CIA connection
, the secret army of the Indian prime minister, Hitler's biggest mass
murderer, strangest rains where frogs fell from the sky, heroism of
Mold of, terrorist funding in Columbia, NASA's controversial
landings and so on. Some stories are inspired by characters around
you who touch your lives in so many ways yet go unnoticed. Some
climaxes will urge you to read the story again with a new
perspective. If imagination is more powerful than knowledge
then here is a book that invites you to join the author in the
most powerful imaginative endeavors you may have ever
undertaken till now . . . in a literary environment of course.
My review
Pandora's box is a short story collection. Author handles a lot of diverse topics. The book is like a fruit salad where unmatched topics are mixed together to give a palatable flavor. Since this is a short story collection, it cannot be classified in a highlight drawback cabin. A unique quality which I could see in every story is the unpredictability. The twist in the climax of many stories came like a shocking surprise since there are very few books which I failed to guess the end. This is one among the few. Some stories could have been novels since there are a lot happening. There are 21 stories. I would like to review each and every story in detail but since they are short stories, my detailed review might end up as spoilers. But I will name a few.
The stories Ferret, Cryptic Patient, Free Fall, Blood Thirsty Prototypes, and WWII astonished me with the twist in the end. Mustache Gang is also of the same league but I guessed the twist.The Paying guest should have been a novel. It gave me a compressed feeling since a lot was happening and author rushed through it. It would have been perfect, had it been a novel.David Goliath, Devil's Workshop, Philosopher's Stone, Pandora's Box, Tiger Tiger burning bright, Hail Mogambo, and Last Viking have a geopolitical dimension. Author tried put light to the hidden agenda of the several political manifestations.
Torrent, Satanic Provocation, Adobe acrobat, the vicious circle, convicted, laughing gas, and Unnoticed are more of a contemporary style but at the same time with a psychological application.
One Liner
The literary works of a writer who is responsible, reactive, talented, and unpredictable.
Avail the book from AMAZON & FLIPKART About the Author
Tushar Sen makes his entry into the budding fraternity of
Bankers turning into Writers with his maiden attempt –
Pandora’s Box. He lives in Mumbai and can be reached at
sen.tushar@hotmail.com or followed @tusharsarojsen on
twitter.
Reviewed for the publisher(Leadstart Publishing)
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.
December 9, 2015
Exes and O's book BlitZ
FOR THE ROMANCE LOVERS, LAKESHIA POOLE IS BACK WITH THE SEQUEL OF 'DON'T LET ME FALL'
Exes and O’s
Lakeshia Poole
Publication date: November 24th 2015
Genres: New Adult, Romance
For some the game of love and college seems rigged. After a few tough losses they resort to doing things they thought they would never do to turn their challenges into championships…Goodreads / Amazon / Smashwords
Ciara and Xander each came to Aurbor Grove University with the perfect game plan. She would score another chance at finally living up to her college dreams and the high academic expectations set by her mother. He would become the star quarterback and hometown hero he was groomed to be. Yet they find themselves entangled in drama—from the exes who refuse to live without them to the financial struggles that make it seem like college is meant only for the elite to win.
Their friendship has a rocky start, but as the semester passes along they find that their most peaceful moments are spent with each other. Will the pains of the past and pressure on the fields of love and learning squash all hope for their future?
Exes and O’s is Lakeshia Poole’s drama-filled, romantic sequel to Don’t Let Me Fall.
Want a signed copy? Signed paperback copies available on promotional website!—EXCERPT:
Aurbor Grove University didn’t feel like just a place. Not anymore. It was a living part of Ciara Capers. Like a phantom limb, she felt remnants of her life from before dangling, but not really there.Families carting luggage, mini refrigerators, and large containers whizzed by her. Housing assistants offered bottled water and waved directional signs pointing the herd to the appropriate check-in lines. AGU’s village of residence halls towered over everyone. The flurry of move-in day activity made Ciara feel so small, like a period in a sweeping, 100,000-word epic novel.
Her eyes darted away from her old dorm, Caldwell Hall. It glowered at her anyway, demanding she acknowledge its presence and her past.
The line for MacDonald Hall spilled from the front desk all the way outside, curving around the gushing fountain in the center of the Village courtyard.
Ciara loosened her grip on the duffle bag stretched to the seams.
“You’re not getting tired on me already, are ya?” Nick asked, stopping at her side.
“Not yet.” The edge of her lips curved up into a half smile.
He craned his neck, peering over the line slowly edging forward. A black AGU baseball cap shaded him from the South Georgia sun beating down on them. Still the dense heat reddened his cheeks and created dark gray splotches on his t-shirt.
“I don’t have much,” she said, shrugging her shoulders.
“If we ever get your keys, it shouldn’t take too long to unload everything.” He pulled a bottle of water from his khaki cargo shorts and handed it to Ciara.
She took a sip, leaning into him. “I know. I’m just—”
“Having second thoughts?”
“No, I’m glad to be back.”
The lie rolled off her tongue smooth and easy, because Ciara had practiced. She’d repeated it to family members, friends, and even herself with the high pitch of fake excitement.
When she decided to return to AGU after a yearlong absence, so many thoughts of what could go wrong raced through her mind.
What if my ex comes back too? What if the classes are too hard? What if everyone still blames me for what happened to Tala?
Ciara kept last summer’s pain and unspoken secrets tucked away, but ever so often regret popped up, tapped her on the shoulder, and whispered in her ear: ‘You do not deserve this.’
She brushed that voice and the perspiration turning her bangs into a crinkly mess to the side. She shaded her eyes with one hand and looked up at her new home: MacDonald Hall or the Mac as many lazily, coolly called it.
The Mac offered a long list of amenities like free yoga classes, private bathrooms, and walk-in closets, which made it sound more like a resort than the typical dormitory. A breezeway bearing AGU’s iconic, cursive A connected two 12-floor towers of curfew-free, coed living. Trees lined the sidewalk, their leaves and branches forming an arc over the sliding door entrance.
Ciara felt an urge to fix the maroon and white ‘Welcome to Move-In Day!’ banner hanging crookedly, but turned to Nick instead.
“Thanks for being here with me today.”
“No problem. You’ve gotta promise me you’re not quitting again.” The lightheartedness of Nick’s joke didn’t dull the sting of his words about her being a quitter.
With every mishap, Ciara wondered if the universe wanted her to quit again. A pre-dawn text message from her sick father left her scrambling to find help. Then an accident on I-75 turned her ride from Atlanta into a five-hour, stop-and-go nightmare. And now she stood in a line that didn’t seem to move.
She closed her eyes, willing the negativity away.
Today’s a perfect day to begin again.
While antsy, red-faced students and families rushed for the doors, Ciara took in the special moment marking her second chance.
She breathed in the hot, magnolia-scented air, held on until she couldn’t stand it anymore and let go.
I’m ready.
Author Bio:
Lakeshia Poole is an award-winning public relations professional and author. Whether it’s landing a feature in The New York Times, developing a YouTube short or creating a series of blog posts, she believes in telling positive and compelling stories. Poole graduated from the University of Georgia with dual degrees in public relations and sociology. When she’s not writing, she spends her time with family and her dog JoJo Dancer.
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