Kritika Sharma's Blog, page 12
February 5, 2017
Book - The Prince of Patliputra: Reliving History Again
#BookReviews
Read Review Policy Here
Title: The Prince of Patliputra
Author: Shreyas Bhave
Publisher: Frog Books
Pages: 382
Price: Rs. 375
My Rating: 4/5
Blurb:
272 BC BHARATHVARSHA, LAIID OF THE ARYAS Samrat Bindusar, son of Chandragupta and the second Samrat Chakravartin of all the Aryas rules over the massive subcontinent from his holy seat in Patliputra. Almost five decades ago, his father had laid the wealth and glory of the past has subsided. As the Samrat's health continues to decline due to an unknown illness, problems are arising all over his realm. There is infighting and rebellion. No clear successor to him is present. Ninety nine of his sons stand in line waiting for his throne. Bharathvarsha needs a Chandragupta once again. And it needs a Chanakya too. Can the young Prince Asoka, who is the least favorite son of the Samrat, fill the boots of his grandfather? Can Radhagupta, a mere Councilor of the Court be what Chanakya was to all the Aryas? Begin a new adventure with the first book of the Ashoka trilogy as you read to find the answer to one great question- That who shall be the next Samrat of this holy land of the Aryas?
Review:Remember the history we studied in schools? No? Well, this the book that relives it. Prince of Patliputra is the first part of 'Asoka's triology' which deals in 272BC and 50 years before that. It has two parallel story lines, one of Asoka and another of Chandragupta.
Talking about history, it seemed so boring when we studied it, isn't it? (Please excuse all who thought otherwise). But this book is not boring at all. While reading it, you would feel you are actually living in that era. Well, two eras actually - Asoka's and Chandragupta's and both are written beautifully and author has done justice to both.
Chadragupta was the grandfather of Asoka and the great Samrat of India. The story lays down events of the lives of two great kings India has ever seen. One key angle to the book is of Chanakya. It is well known that Chankya enabled Chandragupta's rule but to read it from author's perspective is fresh and different.
Talking about characters, the book is full of them. Author had been smart while putting up a list in the beginning of the book to enable readers with an index. Yes, there are so many that one might get lost while reading.Although there are many characters but author has done a good job in justifying them. You won't feel story lost of any or yearn for more details.
The writing style is rather friendly and decent. However there are small errors which can be ignored. The only thing that I didn't like was certain scenes were dragged out but given the book is overall good, one tend to get over it.
Overall, the story is full of politics, conspiracy and betrayals -but it is also laced with slight romance, which makes it perfect.
My rating to the book is - 4/5
You can grab your copy here. (Yes price is a little too much but well, it is a rather huge book and a good one too ;)
Love and Cheers
Read Review Policy Here
Title: The Prince of Patliputra
Author: Shreyas Bhave
Publisher: Frog Books
Pages: 382
Price: Rs. 375
My Rating: 4/5
Blurb:
272 BC BHARATHVARSHA, LAIID OF THE ARYAS Samrat Bindusar, son of Chandragupta and the second Samrat Chakravartin of all the Aryas rules over the massive subcontinent from his holy seat in Patliputra. Almost five decades ago, his father had laid the wealth and glory of the past has subsided. As the Samrat's health continues to decline due to an unknown illness, problems are arising all over his realm. There is infighting and rebellion. No clear successor to him is present. Ninety nine of his sons stand in line waiting for his throne. Bharathvarsha needs a Chandragupta once again. And it needs a Chanakya too. Can the young Prince Asoka, who is the least favorite son of the Samrat, fill the boots of his grandfather? Can Radhagupta, a mere Councilor of the Court be what Chanakya was to all the Aryas? Begin a new adventure with the first book of the Ashoka trilogy as you read to find the answer to one great question- That who shall be the next Samrat of this holy land of the Aryas?
Review:Remember the history we studied in schools? No? Well, this the book that relives it. Prince of Patliputra is the first part of 'Asoka's triology' which deals in 272BC and 50 years before that. It has two parallel story lines, one of Asoka and another of Chandragupta.
Talking about history, it seemed so boring when we studied it, isn't it? (Please excuse all who thought otherwise). But this book is not boring at all. While reading it, you would feel you are actually living in that era. Well, two eras actually - Asoka's and Chandragupta's and both are written beautifully and author has done justice to both.
Chadragupta was the grandfather of Asoka and the great Samrat of India. The story lays down events of the lives of two great kings India has ever seen. One key angle to the book is of Chanakya. It is well known that Chankya enabled Chandragupta's rule but to read it from author's perspective is fresh and different.
Talking about characters, the book is full of them. Author had been smart while putting up a list in the beginning of the book to enable readers with an index. Yes, there are so many that one might get lost while reading.Although there are many characters but author has done a good job in justifying them. You won't feel story lost of any or yearn for more details.
The writing style is rather friendly and decent. However there are small errors which can be ignored. The only thing that I didn't like was certain scenes were dragged out but given the book is overall good, one tend to get over it.
Overall, the story is full of politics, conspiracy and betrayals -but it is also laced with slight romance, which makes it perfect.
My rating to the book is - 4/5
You can grab your copy here. (Yes price is a little too much but well, it is a rather huge book and a good one too ;)
Love and Cheers
February 1, 2017
Book: Figmented Reality - Its 'Deep', its 'Dark', its 'Human Psychology'
#BookReviews
Read Review Policy Here
Title: Figmented Reality
Author: Zuko
Publisher: Frog Books
Pages: 162
Price: Rs. 150
My Rating: 3/5
Blurb:
Addiction blurs our hold on reality; people say. But what if addiction becomes our reality? Siddharth had a fair few addictions in his wake. The challenge now was to differentiate between the ideal world and the real world. Will Siddharth be able to overcome his addictions and find true love. Or is it just another addiction? This book is not a biography of the author but is written in a way that author is the protaganist.
Review:
Figmented reality shows the deep dark side of human psychology. It revolves around a man who was sexually assaulted when young, and now he is trying to fight his demons.
As the blurb suggests, the book deals with various addictions and addiction to sex is the primary one. The way it is portrayed is rather bold and impressive and kudos to author to write on such topic.
The characterization is not very impressive. I feel author could have done a much better job with it. With such strong content, one needs to build characters rather strongly. However, I did like Veena's character but again, it needs better build.
The depiction of the childhood trauma and how it affects rest of the life is very well portrayed.
Overall it is an impressive read but there are two major turn offs - firstly editing issues. There are serious grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Even the blurb has spelling issue. Secondly, the ending is rather abrupt which is very disappointing.
My rating for the book is 3/5.
You can grab your copy here.
Love and Cheers
Read Review Policy Here
Title: Figmented Reality
Author: Zuko
Publisher: Frog Books
Pages: 162
Price: Rs. 150
My Rating: 3/5
Blurb:
Addiction blurs our hold on reality; people say. But what if addiction becomes our reality? Siddharth had a fair few addictions in his wake. The challenge now was to differentiate between the ideal world and the real world. Will Siddharth be able to overcome his addictions and find true love. Or is it just another addiction? This book is not a biography of the author but is written in a way that author is the protaganist.
Review:
Figmented reality shows the deep dark side of human psychology. It revolves around a man who was sexually assaulted when young, and now he is trying to fight his demons.
As the blurb suggests, the book deals with various addictions and addiction to sex is the primary one. The way it is portrayed is rather bold and impressive and kudos to author to write on such topic.
The characterization is not very impressive. I feel author could have done a much better job with it. With such strong content, one needs to build characters rather strongly. However, I did like Veena's character but again, it needs better build.
The depiction of the childhood trauma and how it affects rest of the life is very well portrayed.
Overall it is an impressive read but there are two major turn offs - firstly editing issues. There are serious grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Even the blurb has spelling issue. Secondly, the ending is rather abrupt which is very disappointing.
My rating for the book is 3/5.
You can grab your copy here.
Love and Cheers
January 28, 2017
Finding my 'smile' again
#MagicOfWarmth #Smile
Falling in love is easy, but to keep on falling in love is most difficult.
Life is one big melodrama, isn't it? The more in-depth you think about it the more drama you find in it.
Talking about my life, I met my husband 9 years ago and fell in love with him instantly. I could never believe how someone can be so kind, polite, loving, caring and responsible. He was the perfect man and I didn't miss a moment in making him mine. So, we got married and everything was just perfect - well everything except one thing. Although, we lived alone but we were never alone. We always had a shadow of family. We moved to South Africa and even then the shadow followed. I started hating everything that we had - that was just work and no holidays. We never went anywhere because we had to save money (for family) and we didn't take break because we had to save up holidays to go back to our 'family'.
I started to feel I was losing my smile, my happiness and even my marriage. I saw everything falling apart when one fine day he asked me join him for a long drive. I love long drives but to my utter surprise he took me on a very long drive – 1300 kms to be precise. It was our anniversary week and he planned a whole week out. We both were in same department and somehow he managed to get us both a week's holiday. In whole week he planned a trip of 5 cities, and it was simply blissful. I couldn't believe that he planned everything from hotels to candle-lit dinners and my job was just to cherish each moment.
As we drove six hours straight I asked him, "Why?" It's not that I was not happy, but it's just that I had never seen this side of him. He was so swamped in work and responsibilities that I had lost touch with the man I fell in love with and that day I saw a glimpse of him. He held my hand and replied, "You believe that I don't see how sad you are, but I actually do. I am sorry for neglecting you for so long"
Tears brimmed my eyes at his sentiment. I know he loves me but it was the first time he had shown such sentiment.
"Happy 3rd anniversary" he continued and gently kissing my hand he pressed hard on accelerator for neither of us could wait to arrive our destination.
Next morning I woke up with a sweet memory of last night and romantic dinner. It was incredible.
"I don't remember when last you woke up with a smile on your face" my husband smiled as he caressed my hair. A feeling of warmth spread through my body as I realized, 'Yes, I too don't remember when I smiled like this before', but in that moment, in my smile, in his smile, I knew - 'I have fallen in love with him, again'
And just like that, we rekindled our love and laughed together into the beautiful morning.
I’m blogging about my #MagicOfWarmth moment at BlogAdda in association with Parachute Advansed Hot Oil
Love and Cheers
Falling in love is easy, but to keep on falling in love is most difficult. Life is one big melodrama, isn't it? The more in-depth you think about it the more drama you find in it.
Talking about my life, I met my husband 9 years ago and fell in love with him instantly. I could never believe how someone can be so kind, polite, loving, caring and responsible. He was the perfect man and I didn't miss a moment in making him mine. So, we got married and everything was just perfect - well everything except one thing. Although, we lived alone but we were never alone. We always had a shadow of family. We moved to South Africa and even then the shadow followed. I started hating everything that we had - that was just work and no holidays. We never went anywhere because we had to save money (for family) and we didn't take break because we had to save up holidays to go back to our 'family'.
I started to feel I was losing my smile, my happiness and even my marriage. I saw everything falling apart when one fine day he asked me join him for a long drive. I love long drives but to my utter surprise he took me on a very long drive – 1300 kms to be precise. It was our anniversary week and he planned a whole week out. We both were in same department and somehow he managed to get us both a week's holiday. In whole week he planned a trip of 5 cities, and it was simply blissful. I couldn't believe that he planned everything from hotels to candle-lit dinners and my job was just to cherish each moment.
As we drove six hours straight I asked him, "Why?" It's not that I was not happy, but it's just that I had never seen this side of him. He was so swamped in work and responsibilities that I had lost touch with the man I fell in love with and that day I saw a glimpse of him. He held my hand and replied, "You believe that I don't see how sad you are, but I actually do. I am sorry for neglecting you for so long"
Tears brimmed my eyes at his sentiment. I know he loves me but it was the first time he had shown such sentiment.
"Happy 3rd anniversary" he continued and gently kissing my hand he pressed hard on accelerator for neither of us could wait to arrive our destination.
Next morning I woke up with a sweet memory of last night and romantic dinner. It was incredible.
"I don't remember when last you woke up with a smile on your face" my husband smiled as he caressed my hair. A feeling of warmth spread through my body as I realized, 'Yes, I too don't remember when I smiled like this before', but in that moment, in my smile, in his smile, I knew - 'I have fallen in love with him, again'And just like that, we rekindled our love and laughed together into the beautiful morning.
I’m blogging about my #MagicOfWarmth moment at BlogAdda in association with Parachute Advansed Hot Oil
Love and Cheers
Those 2 much awaited dark lines...
#BabyDiaries #MagicOfWarmth
After TTC for almost 3 years and after two failed IUI, I had totally lost hope... The reason for failed IUI was no issue with me, instead it was of the greedy doc (that bi***) who used our sentiments to make money.Anyways, that's a story for another day. But yes, I had totally lost hope. After second failed attempt I had almost stopped stepping out of home and had turned almost suicidal. I had started hating everything and everyone, including myself and my husband. I knew we were suffering so I suggested adoption but no one in my family agreed to it, starting with my husband. "Let's try one more year, if we are unsuccessful even then, we will consider"My husband, for the record, is the nicest and kindest man you will ever know. He loves me to his core and I love him equally however at that time I was so frustrated that I believed he was being unkind and doesn't understand - I wanted to a divorce. Yes, this was my lowest point I believe and I was that depressed and hopeless.
For a change, he took me to Goa and got onboard with my decision to change the city. I literally fled Mumbai and moved to Delhi hoping change of surroundings will help. And they did help.
I am not sure where the magic happened but I missed my periods - again. I have an abrupt cycle and no thanks to past failed IUIs it was much worse. As I got 2 months overdue I asked him to get me pills to get my periods back. I didn't want to take another pregnancy test and undergo another round of depression. However, he brought both.
"Please just give it a try, what if?" he was hopeful.
"How can you be hopeful. We are cursed," I yelled and locked myself in the room and cried for hours. This was so not me, when I get angry, depressed and I usually throw things but I don't cry. This was new. So were the weird pains I was getting all over but I dismissed them as nothing.
I don't remember much of the evening of that day as I cried a lot and eventually fell asleep. He tried to get me to eat but I couldn't.
I woke up at 4:15 am due to an sudden urge to pee. As I stepped in the bathroom I saw the pregnancy kit neatly placed on the sink. He knew I was suffering from 'frequent urination' issue and would wake up early morning. I knew he wanted me to take that test... So for him, I took it. (They say to take it early in the morning for best results). I left it on the counter and started roaming around. After some time, what seemed like hours, I decided to check it - you know just for the sake of checking and my whole world turned upside down. It was a BFP (Big Fat Positive)...
I stared at it for good five minutes until the reality set in. "Oh my God! It happened..." I yelled as a warm feeling of happiness swept through my body.
It was still 4:30 am and he was sleeping peacefully. I decided to inform him in the morning. But anyone who knows me can tell, I can't stomach anything exciting and by 4:31 am he was awake and getting the best news of his life. He was going to be a father... I still remember the expressions he had when he woke, he was shocked and worried for my well-being. But when he heard the news, he was delighted and speechless. It was million dollar moment for us. God, we both couldn't believe that after so many years it finally happened. And I am forever grateful to him for not letting me take those pills right away. I don't know what disaster might have happened if I did take them...
So that is my story of getting those 2 dark lines... and it was my magic of warmth moment.
What is yours? Do share...
I’m blogging about my #MagicOfWarmth moment at BlogAdda in association with Parachute Advansed Hot Oil
Lots of love.
After TTC for almost 3 years and after two failed IUI, I had totally lost hope... The reason for failed IUI was no issue with me, instead it was of the greedy doc (that bi***) who used our sentiments to make money.Anyways, that's a story for another day. But yes, I had totally lost hope. After second failed attempt I had almost stopped stepping out of home and had turned almost suicidal. I had started hating everything and everyone, including myself and my husband. I knew we were suffering so I suggested adoption but no one in my family agreed to it, starting with my husband. "Let's try one more year, if we are unsuccessful even then, we will consider"My husband, for the record, is the nicest and kindest man you will ever know. He loves me to his core and I love him equally however at that time I was so frustrated that I believed he was being unkind and doesn't understand - I wanted to a divorce. Yes, this was my lowest point I believe and I was that depressed and hopeless.
For a change, he took me to Goa and got onboard with my decision to change the city. I literally fled Mumbai and moved to Delhi hoping change of surroundings will help. And they did help.
I am not sure where the magic happened but I missed my periods - again. I have an abrupt cycle and no thanks to past failed IUIs it was much worse. As I got 2 months overdue I asked him to get me pills to get my periods back. I didn't want to take another pregnancy test and undergo another round of depression. However, he brought both.
"Please just give it a try, what if?" he was hopeful.
"How can you be hopeful. We are cursed," I yelled and locked myself in the room and cried for hours. This was so not me, when I get angry, depressed and I usually throw things but I don't cry. This was new. So were the weird pains I was getting all over but I dismissed them as nothing.
I don't remember much of the evening of that day as I cried a lot and eventually fell asleep. He tried to get me to eat but I couldn't.
I woke up at 4:15 am due to an sudden urge to pee. As I stepped in the bathroom I saw the pregnancy kit neatly placed on the sink. He knew I was suffering from 'frequent urination' issue and would wake up early morning. I knew he wanted me to take that test... So for him, I took it. (They say to take it early in the morning for best results). I left it on the counter and started roaming around. After some time, what seemed like hours, I decided to check it - you know just for the sake of checking and my whole world turned upside down. It was a BFP (Big Fat Positive)...
I stared at it for good five minutes until the reality set in. "Oh my God! It happened..." I yelled as a warm feeling of happiness swept through my body.
It was still 4:30 am and he was sleeping peacefully. I decided to inform him in the morning. But anyone who knows me can tell, I can't stomach anything exciting and by 4:31 am he was awake and getting the best news of his life. He was going to be a father... I still remember the expressions he had when he woke, he was shocked and worried for my well-being. But when he heard the news, he was delighted and speechless. It was million dollar moment for us. God, we both couldn't believe that after so many years it finally happened. And I am forever grateful to him for not letting me take those pills right away. I don't know what disaster might have happened if I did take them...So that is my story of getting those 2 dark lines... and it was my magic of warmth moment.
What is yours? Do share...
I’m blogging about my #MagicOfWarmth moment at BlogAdda in association with Parachute Advansed Hot Oil
Lots of love.
January 16, 2017
Who knew that health and fertility were just a sleep away :)
#BabyDiaries
We have been hearing all our lives that sleeping on time and for right amount of time is very crucial as it enables us to wake up fresh and on-time the next morning. However, today we will find out how having right sleep will not just keep us fresh and happy but will also increase our chances of getting pregnant.
Below are some key points that a mother-to-be should pay attention to:
Lack of sleep results in upset hormones. It is not just the case in women but also in men. When we are sleep deprived or sleep and wake up at different times, we force our body to adapt to ruptured schedule. The inconsistent schedule confuses our body and it does not produce right hormones at the right time No sleep or irregular sleep makes us tired and even bitchy. Which severely affects the BD* and we will know how important BD is if we wish to conceiveLess sleep affects overall health which weakens the immune system of our body. With weak immune system one is more prone to fall sick which may result in no baby bumpLack of sleep does affect males as well. If the sleep cycle is too abrupt, it can affect sperm count and motilitySleep produces melatonin which helps body heal during the sleep process. One thing that is not so commonly known is that melatonin protects eggs during the time of ovulation. If one is sleep deprived then the body will not produce enough melatonin to protect the eggs - which in turn will result in fail cycle. Taking melatonin supplement without consulting the doctor is not advised.Also if one has conceived, lack of sleep or abrupt schedule can also lead to an unfortunate miscarriage
Hence, it is very important to maintain a good sleep schedule which provides us a 7-8 hours of deep and sound sleep.
In order to have good night's sleep, one should try to follow below:
Keep bedroom sleep friendly i.e. avoid bright lights that provide hindrance to sleepKeep cell phones, tablets out of reach and avoid using electronic devices just before sleepingKeep room cool as per desired temperatureTry to keep all tensions, worries aside and sleep in peaceLie down at same time everyday to get into the routine
Following above should help and if you still have problem sleeping, it is strongly suggested to visit a health care professional.
I hope my article helps. You can read more regarding this topic on this link .
The post is part of new section I am starting in my blog... Baby Diaries & Pregnancy
Love and Cheers
We have been hearing all our lives that sleeping on time and for right amount of time is very crucial as it enables us to wake up fresh and on-time the next morning. However, today we will find out how having right sleep will not just keep us fresh and happy but will also increase our chances of getting pregnant.Below are some key points that a mother-to-be should pay attention to:
Lack of sleep results in upset hormones. It is not just the case in women but also in men. When we are sleep deprived or sleep and wake up at different times, we force our body to adapt to ruptured schedule. The inconsistent schedule confuses our body and it does not produce right hormones at the right time No sleep or irregular sleep makes us tired and even bitchy. Which severely affects the BD* and we will know how important BD is if we wish to conceiveLess sleep affects overall health which weakens the immune system of our body. With weak immune system one is more prone to fall sick which may result in no baby bumpLack of sleep does affect males as well. If the sleep cycle is too abrupt, it can affect sperm count and motilitySleep produces melatonin which helps body heal during the sleep process. One thing that is not so commonly known is that melatonin protects eggs during the time of ovulation. If one is sleep deprived then the body will not produce enough melatonin to protect the eggs - which in turn will result in fail cycle. Taking melatonin supplement without consulting the doctor is not advised.Also if one has conceived, lack of sleep or abrupt schedule can also lead to an unfortunate miscarriage
Hence, it is very important to maintain a good sleep schedule which provides us a 7-8 hours of deep and sound sleep.
In order to have good night's sleep, one should try to follow below:
Keep bedroom sleep friendly i.e. avoid bright lights that provide hindrance to sleepKeep cell phones, tablets out of reach and avoid using electronic devices just before sleepingKeep room cool as per desired temperatureTry to keep all tensions, worries aside and sleep in peaceLie down at same time everyday to get into the routineFollowing above should help and if you still have problem sleeping, it is strongly suggested to visit a health care professional.
I hope my article helps. You can read more regarding this topic on this link .
The post is part of new section I am starting in my blog... Baby Diaries & Pregnancy
Love and Cheers
January 15, 2017
Movie - Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
#Movies
For quite sometime I have been looking for a light-hearted children fantasy movie which is nothing but entertainment. I have watched Harry Potter, Narnia, LOTR etc. multiple times and wanted something new and 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' was most definitely what I wanted. :)
Although released in September 2016, I got the chance to watch it only now and I am disappointed that I couldn't watch it on big-screen.
Talking about plot, it revolves around Miss Peregrine (played by Eva Green) and Jake (played by Asa Butterfield). It begins when Jake finds his grandfather mysteriously murdered and it changes everything in his life. From childhood his grandfather has told him stories about 'Peculiar children' i.e. children with some special abilities. And now, he sets on a path to find these children.Miss Peregrine herself is a 'peculiar' and can manipulate time. The way it is shown is rather impressive. There are many other characters in the movie as well and they have special abilities like one can float and manipulate air, one little girl can lift boulders, one boy is invisible etc.
The primary antagonist of the story is Mr. Barron who - how should I explain - is a rather dangerous man and travels with hollows. Honestly it is very difficult to explain this side so it will be better if you watch :P
Overall it is very good movie and I have thoroughly enjoyed it.
My rating to the movie - 4.5/5.
Do watch it and let me know how you found it.
Love and Cheers
For quite sometime I have been looking for a light-hearted children fantasy movie which is nothing but entertainment. I have watched Harry Potter, Narnia, LOTR etc. multiple times and wanted something new and 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' was most definitely what I wanted. :)Although released in September 2016, I got the chance to watch it only now and I am disappointed that I couldn't watch it on big-screen.
Talking about plot, it revolves around Miss Peregrine (played by Eva Green) and Jake (played by Asa Butterfield). It begins when Jake finds his grandfather mysteriously murdered and it changes everything in his life. From childhood his grandfather has told him stories about 'Peculiar children' i.e. children with some special abilities. And now, he sets on a path to find these children.Miss Peregrine herself is a 'peculiar' and can manipulate time. The way it is shown is rather impressive. There are many other characters in the movie as well and they have special abilities like one can float and manipulate air, one little girl can lift boulders, one boy is invisible etc.
The primary antagonist of the story is Mr. Barron who - how should I explain - is a rather dangerous man and travels with hollows. Honestly it is very difficult to explain this side so it will be better if you watch :P
Overall it is very good movie and I have thoroughly enjoyed it.
My rating to the movie - 4.5/5.
Do watch it and let me know how you found it.
Love and Cheers
January 7, 2017
Quick Titbits - Granny's Prescriptions #9
#QuickTitbits #Tried&Tested
Dadi Maa ke Nuskhe ~ Unclog Sink
Pour mixture of baking soda and salt in the clogged sink (1:1 ratio)Add a cup of warm vinegarAnd finally pour lot of boiling waterYour sink will unclog in minutesIts TRIED & TESTED
Love & Cheers
Dadi Maa ke Nuskhe ~ Unclog Sink
Pour mixture of baking soda and salt in the clogged sink (1:1 ratio)Add a cup of warm vinegarAnd finally pour lot of boiling waterYour sink will unclog in minutesIts TRIED & TESTED
Love & Cheers
January 5, 2017
Quick Titbits - Granny's Prescriptions #8
#QuickTitbits #Tried&Tested
Dadi Maa ke Nuskhe ~ Leg Cramps
Two tried and tested things to avoid leg cramps especially in middle of the night or early morning
#1Drink something sweet & salty like Electrolyte powder or lemon water with sweet & salt first thing in morning to replenish sodium & potassium deficiency in the body
#2Whichever leg is more prone to cramps, tie 4-5 rounds of black thread around ankle. It pinches some nerve or so I understand which help resolve this issue
Its TRIED & TESTED. Not sure which one works but I did both together and got rid of cramps permanently. Yay!
Love & Cheers
Dadi Maa ke Nuskhe ~ Leg Cramps
Two tried and tested things to avoid leg cramps especially in middle of the night or early morning
#1Drink something sweet & salty like Electrolyte powder or lemon water with sweet & salt first thing in morning to replenish sodium & potassium deficiency in the body
#2Whichever leg is more prone to cramps, tie 4-5 rounds of black thread around ankle. It pinches some nerve or so I understand which help resolve this issue
Its TRIED & TESTED. Not sure which one works but I did both together and got rid of cramps permanently. Yay!
Love & Cheers
December 29, 2016
Book: 31 Miles - Story that showcases conflicts of 'What We Want' and 'What We Should Do'
#BookReviews
Read Review Policy Here
Title: 31 Miles: Can We Ever Win Against Ourselves?
Author: Vinita Bakshi
Publisher: Rupa Publishers
Pages: 234
Price: Rs. 233
My Rating: 4.5/5
Blurb:Mansa has the perfect family life—a husband, two daughters and a big house. But she feels that something is missing. Her frustration with being just a homemaker intensifies. After shifting to a major city, she decides to take the reins of her life in her own hands, she decides to step out and seek a career.While enjoying the new-found freedom and confidence, she completely immerses herself in her work and her new life. Till one fateful day when she finds herself embroiled in a passionate affair—with an online lover. And then everything falls apart!31 Miles is the story of a woman who finds her own worth after marriage and works towards self-emancipation. Will she give it all up for the elusive mirage created by the stranger? What turn will her life take next?
Review:Some books are meant to touch your heart and some books force you to relate to your life (past or present) and 31 miles is one of them.
Set around the life of Mansa, it is a simple yet interesting tale of a woman who decides to do something with her life and not just be a homemaker. As she takes first steps towards her career, she finds herself entangled in an online affair. It sounds stupid I know but many people commit this mistake of trusting someone blindly.The story simply displays whom to trust and to whom not. In a way it is also a lesson for everyone (especially teenagers).
The characters are very well written and are bound together well.
The dialogues are also nicely written and some romantic themes come out beautifully. Read to know what I am talking about.
Overall it is a nice read and my rating to the book is 4.5/5
You can grab your copy here.
The review copy of this book was shared with me by Kalamos Literary Services
Love and Cheers
Read Review Policy Here
Title: 31 Miles: Can We Ever Win Against Ourselves?
Author: Vinita Bakshi
Publisher: Rupa Publishers
Pages: 234
Price: Rs. 233
My Rating: 4.5/5
Blurb:Mansa has the perfect family life—a husband, two daughters and a big house. But she feels that something is missing. Her frustration with being just a homemaker intensifies. After shifting to a major city, she decides to take the reins of her life in her own hands, she decides to step out and seek a career.While enjoying the new-found freedom and confidence, she completely immerses herself in her work and her new life. Till one fateful day when she finds herself embroiled in a passionate affair—with an online lover. And then everything falls apart!31 Miles is the story of a woman who finds her own worth after marriage and works towards self-emancipation. Will she give it all up for the elusive mirage created by the stranger? What turn will her life take next?
Review:Some books are meant to touch your heart and some books force you to relate to your life (past or present) and 31 miles is one of them.
Set around the life of Mansa, it is a simple yet interesting tale of a woman who decides to do something with her life and not just be a homemaker. As she takes first steps towards her career, she finds herself entangled in an online affair. It sounds stupid I know but many people commit this mistake of trusting someone blindly.The story simply displays whom to trust and to whom not. In a way it is also a lesson for everyone (especially teenagers).
The characters are very well written and are bound together well.
The dialogues are also nicely written and some romantic themes come out beautifully. Read to know what I am talking about.
Overall it is a nice read and my rating to the book is 4.5/5
You can grab your copy here.
The review copy of this book was shared with me by Kalamos Literary Services
Love and Cheers
December 24, 2016
Meet Kamini Kusum: Author who touches feminist issues...
#AuthorInterviews
Hi Kamini, please tell us something about yourself.
Ans- I am a management professional by day and a writer by night. Story telling has always been my passion and I intend to do it lifelong
You are a writer, professional and a mother of 2, how do you manage?
Its actually difficult but if you crave for something and become restless if you don’t get that, then you design all the ways to achieve it. Passion is always the driving force.
Your book revolves around women and their issues. Any specific source of motivation?
All the five characters in my book are inspired by some real life incidences. Story “Madam Bureaucrat” is more or less the life of one my close friend, though a writer’s imagination too has gone along with it. Strong women characters were always there in my mind which had to be brought out to the world.Which part of publishing process is most difficult for you? Writing/Editing/Publishing/Marketing? And Why?
For me, now it is marketing. A new product from a new brand definitely faces difficulty to some extent but that’s fine. I believe in my work and hope it would find its place.What kind of books do you read? Any favourite authors/books?
I read both English and Hindi Novels- anything that touches the emotions. Among Indian writers, I prefer reading Shobha de, Jhumpa Lahiri, Mridula Garg(Hindi), Nirmal Verma(Hindi) and among foreign writers, Danielle Steel, Nicolas Sparks, John Grasim.Daniale Steel is my favourite and I wish, someday just like her, I could churn out 3-4 novels a year.Traditional vs. Self-Publishing? Which one is better as per you? Why?
My first book “Secrets, sins and struggles” is self published through Zorba Books .I self published because I didn’t want to wait for ages to bring this work of mine out to the world. Moreover there was greater control in my hands throughout the publishing process. Zorba has been really good. But in future I would look forward to work with good literary agents and established traditional publishers.What were the key challenges that you face while you write?
Nothing specific. Stories have always been there in my mind for years and I don’t hunt for words. I don’t add ornamental or fluffy words. I write whatever naturally comes out as a part of storytelling. Yeah, sometimes when I look for twists , I do pause for some days.Are there any words of wisdom that you would like to share with other authors?
I am still a fresher in this industry with my first book just out .I am myself still learning. But one thing I must say, let’s not follow or try to mimic a success. Let’s be ourselves and pen down what we are good in. Success finds its own path and no need to follow the beaten route.Any other projects you are working on? Yes, what are they?
I am midway my next book. That’s an emotional and inspiring novel centered around a male protagonist. Should be out hopefully by the last quarter of 2017.Lastly, if you have to describe your book in few lines, how will you do it?
“Never say die” is the attitude of those five women who fought all the odds in their lives to live their dreams.
I wish Kamini all the very best in her present and future endeavors.
Get to know Kamini here.
Please do leave your comments and if the book intrigued you, do grab a copy from following link:
Love and Cheers
Hi Kamini, please tell us something about yourself. Ans- I am a management professional by day and a writer by night. Story telling has always been my passion and I intend to do it lifelong
You are a writer, professional and a mother of 2, how do you manage?
Its actually difficult but if you crave for something and become restless if you don’t get that, then you design all the ways to achieve it. Passion is always the driving force.
Your book revolves around women and their issues. Any specific source of motivation?
All the five characters in my book are inspired by some real life incidences. Story “Madam Bureaucrat” is more or less the life of one my close friend, though a writer’s imagination too has gone along with it. Strong women characters were always there in my mind which had to be brought out to the world.Which part of publishing process is most difficult for you? Writing/Editing/Publishing/Marketing? And Why?
For me, now it is marketing. A new product from a new brand definitely faces difficulty to some extent but that’s fine. I believe in my work and hope it would find its place.What kind of books do you read? Any favourite authors/books?
I read both English and Hindi Novels- anything that touches the emotions. Among Indian writers, I prefer reading Shobha de, Jhumpa Lahiri, Mridula Garg(Hindi), Nirmal Verma(Hindi) and among foreign writers, Danielle Steel, Nicolas Sparks, John Grasim.Daniale Steel is my favourite and I wish, someday just like her, I could churn out 3-4 novels a year.Traditional vs. Self-Publishing? Which one is better as per you? Why?
My first book “Secrets, sins and struggles” is self published through Zorba Books .I self published because I didn’t want to wait for ages to bring this work of mine out to the world. Moreover there was greater control in my hands throughout the publishing process. Zorba has been really good. But in future I would look forward to work with good literary agents and established traditional publishers.What were the key challenges that you face while you write?
Nothing specific. Stories have always been there in my mind for years and I don’t hunt for words. I don’t add ornamental or fluffy words. I write whatever naturally comes out as a part of storytelling. Yeah, sometimes when I look for twists , I do pause for some days.Are there any words of wisdom that you would like to share with other authors?
I am still a fresher in this industry with my first book just out .I am myself still learning. But one thing I must say, let’s not follow or try to mimic a success. Let’s be ourselves and pen down what we are good in. Success finds its own path and no need to follow the beaten route.Any other projects you are working on? Yes, what are they?
I am midway my next book. That’s an emotional and inspiring novel centered around a male protagonist. Should be out hopefully by the last quarter of 2017.Lastly, if you have to describe your book in few lines, how will you do it?
“Never say die” is the attitude of those five women who fought all the odds in their lives to live their dreams.
I wish Kamini all the very best in her present and future endeavors.
Get to know Kamini here.
Please do leave your comments and if the book intrigued you, do grab a copy from following link:
Love and Cheers
