Kritika Sharma's Blog, page 4

Book - Everyone Deserves a Second Chance: A Story That Can Save Lives

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Title: Everyone Deserves a Second ChanceAuthor: Shubham SharmaPublisher: Kalamos Literary Services LLPPages: 175Price: Rs. 199 My Rating: 4.5/5
Blurb:What happens when you feel there’s no chance of getting your life back on track? You take a diversion. But what if someone tells you, ‘You can get a second chance to bring it back on the right track.’ Would you believe it? Will you be able to find the courage to run on the same track again? Ahaana, a broken teenager, who has lost her determination for her life. Ansh, a careless teenage boy, who kept on letting everyone down around him. Two teenagers, one purpose, giving life another chance.
Review:Some stories are for fun... and some are for inspiration. EDASC to me was the latter.
It is a story about Ansh, a simple boy who digresses from his path and loses himself. He takes some drastic steps and then feels that everything is lost to him. However, that is not the case. 'Everyone deserves a second chance' is the major learning for Ansh and hence, is the theme of the book.
The characters in the book are well portrayed. The mistakes of teenage life are narrated well. And the bond between mother-son is beautifully depicted. I couldn't help but feel teary at certain points.
What I liked most about the book was the part of Ahaana. She is a simple cute girl and I really hated the tragedy that hits her.
It is a story that touches on a very sensitive issue. Teenage suicides over things that really not so relevant in the long run. Author has touched on a very important issue and I hope it helps save some lives in the future.
My rank for this book is 4.5 and I loved the cover.

A must read.
You can grab it here...


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Book - Blue Crayons: A Collection of 40 Unique Stories

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Title: Blue Crayons: tales from life and beyondAuthor: Rahul RawalPublisher: Zorba PublishersPages: 172Price: Rs. 199 My Rating: 4/5
Blurb: Four years after her marriage broke up, Neha gets a mysterious late-night message from “the other woman.” Her mind tells her to ignore it, her intuition tells her something strange is going on . . .
 When his fancy degrees don’t get him a job or even an interview, Rajesh decides that a publicity stunt is required to get the attention of the world – only, it succeeds in a way he never dreamt of . . .  When a Railway Engineer is sent to inspect a railway line in a small, remote station he is amazed to find that no one gets off the train there at nights. Determined to ignore all warnings, he sets off on a short walk in the dark . . .Bitter-sweet love stories, a brush with the paranormal, the darker side of human nature, modern day heartbreak – this engaging and inventive collection of short stories presents different perspectives that will put a smile on your face and bring a tear in your eye.
Review:Blue Crayons is a very different book. To start with it is a compilation of 40 stories... yes 40! It is a power-packed book with different messages hidden everywhere.Usually, when we pick up short stories book we get a whole perspective but here it is quick in-out. And this is what makes this book so different. Every story is different and very quick. And the book keeps you hooked till the end. If I think about which I story I liked best... well, there is none to dislike. All were beautifully penned.However, there is one thing I felt is lacking in the book. One cannot empathize with the characters. They change so frequently that after a few stories it disappoints a bit. But hey, can't complain there, it is the way the book has been shaped.My overall rating to the book is 4/5It is a must-read for everyone who likes short stories.You can grab your copy on below link.

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Meet Rahul Rawal - A Story Teller

#AuthorInterviews
Hi Rahul, please tell us something about yourself.

I am quite weird, very outgoing sometimes and sometimes just love my own shell. A daydreamer who loves to tell stories provided someone is willing to listen. I am a true Capricorn.. haha
Professionally I am an operations guy working with a fortune 500 company headquartered in the U.S.
You have recently published a book, please tell us something about it.

Blue Crayons is my first book and I am very happy and excited about it like parents do with their first child. I make use of every opportunity to let people know about this book. It is a collection of short stories from different genres and themes like relationships, unemployment, social issues, paranormal etc. It is a blend of all the ingredients, I think in the right quantity.
What inspired you to write your recent book?

This is not one of those books an author intents and plans to write. I have been writing these short stories for quite long but never thought of publishing a book out of those. It is only after reaching the 50 plus stories and reading a few good collections of short stories from the like of Ruskin Bond and Rabindranath Tagore, the idea of publishing a book seeded.
The title is very intriguing, any story behind it?

If life is a box of crayons, she is my blue crayons and Blue being my favorite color as well. Where everything around us runs on practicality I wanted to keep my promise of a ‘forever’ to her. Hence, I named this book Blue Crayons because books never die (wink)
What kind of books do you read? Any favorite authors/books?

Well mostly fiction because stories and the writers’ imagination fascinates me. I love the stories which leave a room for its readers' imagination and that’s what I try in my stories as well.
I love reading Paulo Coelho, Ruskin Bond, and Mitch Albom.
Favorite books: The Kite Runner, Tuesdays with Morrie, Time Keeper and collection of short stories from Ruskin Bond.
What were the key challenges that you face while you write?

The first and the foremost challenge is having the right mood and the right atmosphere around for writing but finding both at the same time is really tough. I am a free will writer, you give me a topic and I will not be able to write. Give me freedom and I shall surprise you.
Which phase of book you hate most? Writing, Editing, Marketing, or something else?

Writing is the most beautiful part because while writing you’re in a different world playing hide and seek with the characters in your book. It’s the relaxing phase.
Editing is a little boring as you have to read your own stuff like Nth times.
Marketing is rest 70%, it’s stressful and taxing however definitely a necessity for a first-time author whom no one knows... Haha
Are there any words of wisdom that you would like to share with other authors?

This is my first book and I don’t think I can give technical advice to other authors however, I firmly believe that a writer should write something he/she themselves are proud of. Even if only 100 people read your book in a lifetime but it should leave an impact on those 100.
Any other projects you are working on? Yes, what are they?

No, currently I’m not working on my next. I am just in a thinking mode right now. I will start the next project only when I’m truly convinced myself with an idea.
Lastly, if you have to describe your book in few lines, how will you do it?

I think Blue Crayons is a unique proposition in itself. It has a lot of variety for it readers.
These 40 stories touch each of our lives directly or indirectly, as a reader you will end up relating yourself with a lot of these characters. Also, there are two things I get cognizant of while writing. First, the stories should leave an impact on its readers and every story does have a message to deliver. Second, trust your readers’ intelligence and leave a little room for their imagination to play.
I am hopeful that this short stories collection will strike many chords.
Hope you enjoyed reading about Rahul and his books. Do grab a copy of his latest book from Amazon today.
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Book - Aashiqui: A Love Diary

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Title:  Aashiqui – Where there is love, there is life…Author: Abhishek Mohta (Callre)Publisher: Blue Rose PublishersPages: 165Price: Rs. 165 My Rating: 3/5
Blurb:Rahul Bedi’s college dreams include an education, meeting new friends and hopefully launching a successful music career. With the notes in his soul, he feels the rhythm in his rhymes and the beat of the instruments even when he closes his eyes. When he meets Sia Lennox, her voice and her form inspire that music and shine through every interaction they have. There is something about her that pulls him and calls to him… an underlying feeling that maybe she is the one who will complete him and be the partner he need. However, sorority princess Priya walks and talks as if Rahul is already hers, a fact that seems surer by the day. While Sia is not exactly looking for a relationship, there is something about Rahul that makes her catch her breath – and ensures that a confrontation with Priya is inevitable.
Review:Aashiqui is not a one of a kind story, however, the way it has been written is kind of different. It is a compilation of diary pages of multiple people and their love life. Also, it starts from the 'The End', which makes it interesting - but also kind of a spoiler. You already know what's gonna happen in the climax - Sigh!
Talking about the story, it is a simple love story between three people - yes, a love triangle. Sia meets Rahul and falls unconditionally in love with him. She gives up everything for his music career. Rahul too loves Sia, but after becoming a superstar in the music world, he forgets his love and moves on with Priya. The way it is written is simple, but you cannot feel the dramatic Bollywood cliche. 
Characters are fine. While reading one can feel the love of Sia and Priya's bitchiness. However, the portrayal could have been more mature. The chemistry just doesn't click. The story has diary pages, but the emotion a person pours in his/her diary is missing.
Overall, it is an okay-ish read. And I really wish that author - whose last book was much better - will strengthen this story in next edition.
My rating 3/5
You can grab your copy here.
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Book - A Cage of Desires: A Mix of Romance, Passion and ...

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Title:  A Cage of DesiresAuthor: Suchi Singh KalraPublisher: PenguinPages: 232Price: Rs. 150 My Rating: 4.5/5
Blurb:'There's a kind of love that makes you go down on one knee, and there's the kind that brings you down on both. You don't need the latter, because no matter what you do, you cannot make anyone love you back.'Renu had always craved love and security, and her boring marriage, mundane existence somehow leads her to believe that, maybe, this is what love is all about. Maya, on the other hand, is a successful author who is infamous for her bold, erotic books.What do these two women have in common? How are their lives intertwined?Renu's thirst for love and longing takes her on a poignant journey of self-exploration. The answers come to her when she finds the courage to stand up for herself, to fight her inner demons and free herself from the cage of desires . . .
Review:A Cage of Desires is a different book. Though the essence of the story is very common, the way the storyline has developed, that makes it different.Starting with the cover, you cannot help but fall in love with the cover. The hand-drawn image and silk-ish background is just perfect. It portrays perfectly what Renu wants.The characterization in the book is such that you cannot help but feel Renu's pain. It is like everyday story, how love and passion die in a marriage and a woman is trapped in her home to take care of kids, elders and other chores. But, here we also have a twist... I am not gonna reveal it but it gels perfectly with the story.There are many characters in the book and all are portrayed well. The biggest element in the story is the desires... which makes it a bit erotic. I am not a big fan of erotica but here it was done properly.Overall it is pretty decent read, however, there is just one thing I didn't like (nothing wrong with the book, just my opinion), the portrayal of Renu's weakness. I hate it when I see women in such weaker shades and Renu is seen doing it a lot! But hey, it is just my viewpoint.
Do give it a read, I am sure you will love it.
Grab your copy here
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Meet Suchi Singh Kalra - A Bestselling Author

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Hi Shuchi, please tell us something about yourself.
I'm Shuchi, author of two romantic comedies - 'Done with Men' and 'I'm big. So what?!'. I am also the wife of an Army Officer, the mother of a pint-size daughter, and two lazy cats. I hold a degree in Optometry from the Bausch & Lomb School of Optometry. Realizing that I wasn’t really cut out for the profession, I went on to pursue a Masters in English Literature just for the sheer love of it. I spent my growing up years between Libya, Lucknow, and Hyderabad.I'm also a wine connoisseur, baking enthusiast, a restless traveler and a compulsive nomad. I'm a sucker for funny romance and I think my best writing happens when I'm surrounded either by mountains or the ocean. I used to run a quaint writing and editing studio and currently, I'm in a full-time corporate job. When not doing any of the above, I love engaging with people on social media and inflicting my opinions on random strangers. I love creating quirky craft work when I get some time to myself and I am also a hoarder of eccentric fashion accessories for no reason at all.
You have recently published a book, please tell us something about it.
It's been a long and arduous journey but my third book ‘A Cage of Desires’ is finally out there in the stores now. Although it straddles many genres but if I had to label it, I think it would come closest to contemporary romantic erotica. It initially started off as a short story published in New Asian Writings anthology. The story received a lot of praise which encouraged me to develop it into a full-length novel. Like all my other books, this one too is also woman-centric, but the central theme is far more intense. It's about a woman's journey towards facing her inner truth and finding freedom. At the same time, it also explores the depths of female sexuality, toxic love, and emotional abuse. I'm sure every reader will relate to it at some level.
What inspired you to write your recent book?
It was a discussion with a Pakistani author who writes under a pseudonym that triggered the story. Initially, it was published as a short story that got a lot of praise from readers and I decided to spin it off into a full-length novel. From there, it flowed on its own.
You have written multiple books, which one is your favourite and why?
That’s like asking a mom which is her favorite child. :) All my books are my favorite for different reasons.  I can’t really choose a “least favorite” because they are all very close to my heart.
What kind of books do you read? Any favourite authors/books?
There are just too many! I have been a voracious reader since childhood and I never missed a chance to bury myself in a book. From the Bronte Sisters to Enid Blyton, and Shakespeare to Sophie Kinsella, I’ve lapped them all up. I believe that my writing style carries the influence of all the authors I have read till date. 
What were the key challenges that you face while you write?
For me, it is to sit down and WRITE. I get easily distracted by the internet and I am the most productive on days when the signals are down. I know a lot of authors who meticulous foreshadow and plan every chapter of their book and write regularly with great discipline. I often wish I could do that too. My writing schedule mostly involves long periods of writer’s block and then suddenly the floodgates open and there is a deluge of ideas and words. I wish I could be more disciplined but with my current schedule, it’s really difficult for me. That, I think is the key challenge I feel I have. Other minor and specific challenges appear while writing each book, especially the genres I have not earlier written. They do not naturally come to me.
Which phase of book you hate most? Writing, Editing, Marketing, or something else?
While I am writing, every time it feels like this must be the most difficult part of seeing a book come to write. When the book moves to the editing phase, I am proved wrong. And this time, with ‘A Cage of Desires’ when I delved into professional marketing and promotion of the book for the first time, that can actually convert into sales, I was proved wrong once again. There are different aspects about different phases of publishing a book that I am not too fond of but I guess there’s no escape from them :)
Are there any words of wisdom that you would like to share with new authors?
I am just three books old so I’m not sure if I am the right person to dole out advice, but I would just say that don’t wait for the perfect moment to write that book cooking in your head. Set a routine, write a few words every day and FINISH that first draft. Don’t waste time on fancy words and expressions when you are writing – just let the story flow. And sometimes when you really get stuck, read the kind of books you want to write. Do not get disheartened by the writer’s block. It eventually goes away.
Any other projects you are working on? Yes, what are they?
I am already halfway through writing the sequel to ‘Done With Men’, my first book. The characters got pretty popular with the readers and many of them asked me if there would be a sequel. It’s going to be a fun breezy read like the previous one, and although it takes off where DWM ended, it is intended to be a standalone book. I also have a couple of other stories inside my head that I would really love to put to paper soon. 
Lastly, if you have to describe your book in few lines, how will you do it?
Although it’s difficult to capture the essence of ‘A Cage of Desires’ in just a few lines I think these lines from the book almost capture its soul.‘She was exactly who she was meant to be—a glorious bird in the sky with fire in her soul and ferocity in her heart; a soul free and fluid like the wind; wings wooing impossible dreams. She was no longer a bird in love with her cage. She was a phoenix resurrected. She was Maya.’
Hope you enjoyed reading about Suchi and her books. Do grab a copy of her latest book from Amazon today.
Lots of Love

Book - Drenched Heart: Collection of beautiful poems

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Title:  Drenched HeartAuthor: Shweta KesariPublisher: Kalamos Literary ServicesPages: 110Price: Rs. 145 My Rating: 3.5/5
Blurb:Emotions, a gateway to the human heart. Drenched with a variety of emotions, this book is penned for all those who want to re-live some emotions. Just like listening to lyrics of a song that reminds you of some memorable moments. Poems in this book hold such memories which can home in your heart.
Review:The book is a collection of poems and some are just brilliant. They touch the heart and soul and have deep meaning.Each poem is supported by a beautiful narration - unfortunately, some are too faded to make out properly. But others are to the point.There is no particular format followed. Some poems are pages long, and some are too short. The variation makes it a delightful read.
My rating: 3.5/5
Example of very simple but deep lines

Do grab a copy today...


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Book - A New Dawn: Fast paced with excellent narration

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Title:  A New DawnAuthor: Kamini KusumPublisher: Half Baked BeansPages: 128Price: Rs. 245 My Rating: 4/5
Blurb:Shravan is a son of a rickshaw puller and Mugdha, daughter of a Railway officer. He has lived in penury while she has had all the material comforts. He dreams of being a soldier and serving the motherland while she lives in the world of colours. Childhood friendship converts into pure love ignoring the boundaries of a bungalow and its servant quarter. However fate has some other plans and tears apart the two innocent souls, throwing Shravan into a life that has thorns all its way. Will the two live their dreams? Will destiny bring them together again? A novel that will make us believe that life is all about never giving up
Review:Love, patience and 'never giving up' is basically the theme of this book. A New Dawn by Kamini Kusum is based on a usual theme, but it is much more than that.Talking about the story, it is sweet in the beginning, but as it progresses, it turns depressing. It showcases the undying love of Shravan and Mugdha. It also houses a love-triangle - which just spice things up. The characterization of all character is brilliant. While reading one can imagine every single one. And hats-off to the author for awesome narration. I just loved it.What I didn't love about the book is the end. It seemed forced and deliberate. To be honest, I hated it. I don't want to write any spoilers, but I felt way too edgy and depressed after finishing this book.Another thing I didn't like is the grammatical mistakes and typos in the book. For example, Page 87, "it was you mother" instead of 'your'. Also, on same page Mugdha calls her own mother as 'your mother' There are a couple more, but I haven't marked them.Lastly, the price of the book is Rs. 245, which seems unjustified. Also, it seems that text has been squeezed into pages. It distracts, you see.Well, apart from look and feel of the book and the typos, it is fast-paced read which is very well narrated.My rating to this book (for its story and content) is 4/5
You can grab a copy as well from Amazon and read for yourself.
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Book: Age of Azmoq - Epic Fantasy Tale

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Title:  Age of Azmoq: The Valantian ImperiumAuthor: Rajamayyoor SharmaPublisher: SelfPages: 500Price: Rs. 500 My Rating: 4/5
Blurb:Azmoq is the rarest and most coveted metal on the planet. It's the ultimate source and symbol of real power, and the Valantian Imperium controls it all. Or so they thought... For the first time in generations, the Valantian Imperium, masters of the Valantian continent glimpse the first tremors of fear. There are rumors abound. Rumors of legends. Legends of both ancient Azmoqian weapons and men of godly powers, long thought to be myths. As these rumors grow, a small group of people, from various walks of life, some commoners, some within the mighty Valantian Imperium itself, by pure coincidence, have set in motion a chain of events. The legends, if true, along with these set of events, might reignite the flames of a revolution. A revolution the Imperium had long suppressed. A revolution that might alter the balance of power in the continent, and eventually the entire world...
Review:When we think about fantasy, the first thing that comes to mind is vampires/werewolves. There are very few people who can think beyond this, and the author is one of them. 
Age of Azmoq is one of a kind book. It revolves around a world that is completely different to what we live in. It also has very different geography and botany. I found this pretty interesting.
The story revolves around the journey of three companions and how they cope with various situations, and struggle to reach their ultimate goals.
The characterization in the book is good and we can definitely link to various protagonists - yes, to make it even more exciting, there is more than one. Sometimes it did get confusing, but while reading you adjust with the flow.
Overall it is a good read and it is one of a kind that will take you away from the real world.
What I didn't like about the book was - multiple times there is a timeline shift and it got very confusing. Also, the book needs a bit of proofreading and fonts should be enhanced. It is very difficult to read with such small fonts. And lastly, the pace of the book, especially in the beginning, should be improved.
However, all above cons are nothing when compared to the beautiful and epic story author has woven.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
My rating - 4/5
You should give it a try too.
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Want to move abroad? Do it PTE way

#DefinitelyPTE
Every milestone in life is difficult and challenging. And getting a job or college abroad is one of the biggest challenges. Wondering why? It is mainly because of competition. India has a goldmine when it comes to hardworking associates or intelligent candidates, so what makes a person different? Apart from many personal qualities, English is a key factor.Speaking fluent English and scoring well in entrance tests is the key. People outside need candidates with good English skills, so what should we do?
Given everyone demands for test scores as proof, we should opt for the best one available and also the one that would be accepted without any questions or doubts. PTE Pearson is one of the best and safest way to ensure admission abroad. And below is the list of key features of this elite and widely accepted test:The test is pretty good and standard. It is widely accepted globallyThe registrations are flexible - you can choose the date and time any time any day. All you need to do is ensure that the registration is done 24 hours prior to the examThe centers are available worldwide and in many top cities in India. See full list here.The fee is minimal in comparison to the bright future that the academy offersResults are out within 4-5 working daysIt is recognized in Canada, Australia, New Zealand UK and USA and is accepted by almost all universities there. See full list hereSo, don't wait up. Look up Pearson PTE Academy today and start your exciting journey.
See videos below to learn more about them.

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