Srivalli Rekha (Semi Hiatus)'s Blog, page 56
January 13, 2023
One Day With You by Shari Low - Book Review
One Day With You by Shari Low
Publication Date: 20th Jan 2023
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction
4 Stars
One Liner: A good blend of emotions
*****Tress Walker and her loving husband Max are expecting their first child. Max goes off for an overnight meeting in London when Tress goes into labor. She takes help from her next-door neighbor Nancy Jenkins, unaware that Max is not where he said he would be.
Nancy is excited to meet her first crush Eddie at the school reunion. At 66, she wonders if life is giving her a second chance. However, Tress’s request for help cannot be ignored. She loves Tress too much to say no.
Noah Clark and his wife Anya seem to be having marriage troubles. Noah isn’t sure if he should share his concerns with his best friend, Max, until he can sort out his emotions. Soon, he uncovers a secret that shatters his heart and emotions.
What happens on that one day will change all their lives forever.
The story comes in the third-person POV of Tress, Noah, and Nancy.
My Thoughts:
I knew what to expect when I requested the book. I wasn’t looking for a fresh theme/ topic. I was only curious to see how the author executed it.
Structuring the story to fit it within a day was a good idea. The day is divided into sections, which made it easy to track parallel events. The detailed epilogue at the end ensures the readers have their answers.
The characters weren’t deep or layered. What you see is what you get. This actually helped the plot from being overcomplicated or intense. I prefer books with contained emotions, so this worked for me. (The emotional quotient will vary for each reader).
There are bits of humor that may or may not be funny but do their job to lighten the situation. Tress, Noah, Nancy, and Val deal with different issues in their own ways, so the jokes kept things light when they go too heavy.
I liked how Tress’s mother isn’t the stereotypical bitter/ emotionally unavailable mom. Tress grew up in a positive environment, and her trust in Max stems from her good heart.
Another aspect I liked was the age gap between Tress and Max. It wasn’t highlighted or used for the plot. It was what it was. (Tress is older than Max by 6-7 years).
The pacing was decent, though the book felt a little laborious (excuse the pun) in the middle. I wanted the story to move on to the next stage.
Max’s POV was well-done. I have no sympathy for him or Anya. However, the execution molded the character very well. It was impactful, more than Tress or Noah’s POV.
Nancy’s POV was interesting too, and I was glad to see everything come together at the end. The found family trope was heartwarming to read.
To summarize, One Day With You is a heartwarming read that handles multiple themes with a deft touch. I look forward to reading more by the author.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books, for the eARC.
#NetGalley #OneDayWithYou
January 7, 2023
For Lamb by Lesa Cline-Ransome - Book Review
For Lamb by Lesa Cline-Ransome
Publication Date: 10th Jan 2023
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
4.5 Stars
One Liner: Touching, moving, and bittersweet
*****Lamb lives with her mother and older brother in Jackson, Mississippi. It’s the 1930s, and being Black means keeping their head down and staying quiet to avoid being lynched by white people. Lamb’s mother is a talented seamstress and a closet lesbian. Lamb’s brother, Simeon, is an intelligent and studious boy with dreams to go to the North and live a free life.
Lamb, true to her name, is a sweet and naïve girl with a beautiful voice. She is often the peacemaker between her mother and brother but loves them dearly. Her friendship with a white girl results in a series of events that put an end to everything. This story can end in only one way.
The story comes in the first-person POV of six characters, with Lamb and Simeon getting a major share of the chapters.
What I Like:
The blurb says, ‘Told with nuance and subtlety, avoiding sensationalism and unnecessary brutality…’, and I agree. The book doesn’t resort to graphical and prolonged descriptions of violence. It provides enough information and leaves the rest for the readers to comprehend.
The beginning is slow and takes its own time. However, it picks up pace after the first quarter. I like the unspoken bond between Marion, Lamb, and Simeon. It’s like hard candy. Tough on the outside, warm and loving on the inside.
The title makes sense as the plot comes together in the latter half. The author’s note provided more information. Don’t skip the note in this one. It’s a must-read.
While Lamb and Simeon are sweet and loving characters, I got hooked by Marion’s attitude and approach even before I read her POV. There’s something about her that isn’t immediately apparent to the reader. I also wish I could know more about her childhood (a novella about it, maybe?).
Marny’s character is well-crafted. She is what a white, young, bookish girl would be. Sweet and a little rebellious, but not strong enough to take a stand when things get worse. Nor capable of looking at things from another perspective and realizing what her actions finally led to.
Lamb’s character arc is tentative but steadies in the second half. Her desire to have a friend even at the risk of being targeted for it, her hope to yearn for a better life, and the struggle to stand up for herself without hurting her mother and brother are heart-touching.
The contrast between Simeon and Marion’s characters and the insights from Chem and Chester make the book a compelling read (despite the lack of a proper setting).
What Could Have Worked Better for Me:
The book is tagged LGBT+, and I was curious to see how it would be explored in such a setting. But this is a pretty minor aspect of the book. We know it’s there but doesn’t, as such, affect the plot. I’d love to see at least another chapter dedicated to exploring the character’s emotions.
I see the reason for the first-person POV of so many characters, but not all of them are impactful. A limited third-person POV would have given the same since a couple of characters get no more than 1-3 chapters to present their side.
While the blurb is true to the story, I would present this more as the story of Lamb’s family and the social dynamics during the 1930s. Interracial friendship is the trigger that changes everything, but it is not the sole focus. In fact, this comes quite late in the book, so expecting friendship to be the central point can affect the reader’s experience.
To summarize, For Lamb is a poignant book that presents racial injustice with sensitivity. It is written for the YA audience but works for adults too. I know I’ll be reading more books by her.
Thank you, NetGalley and Holiday House, for the eARC.
#NetGalley #ForLamb
***
P.S: Mine is an ARC, so the formatting was off and messy, which made it hard to follow the changing POVs. This shouldn’t be a problem with the final copy.
January 5, 2023
The Night Travelers by Armando Lucas Correa - Book Review
The Night Travelers by Armando Lucas Correa
Publication Date: 10th Jan 2023
Genre: Historical Fiction, Multi-timeline
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Dark, heavy, and overwhelming in content but lacks the emotional impact
*****The Night Travelers is the story of four generations of women whose lives change during the Nazi rule, the Cuban Revolution, and the fall of the Berlin wall. The story starts with Ally Keller giving birth to Lilith, a mixed-race daughter, in Berlin, in 1931.
Life in Havana seems happy for Lilith in 1958 until the Cuban Revolution puts her and her daughter Nadine at risk. It’s 1988 in Berlin, and Nadine is a dedicated scientist trying to ignore her family history. Luna, Nadine’s daughter, decides it’s time she knew the truth of the past. But what does it do to her life?
The story comes in the third-person POV of the main characters.
My Thoughts:
The book spans the years covering WWII, the Cuban Revolution, and the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is rooted in historical events and feels heavy throughout. It’s not an easy book to read (in many ways).
The beginning is wow. It starts strong with Ally giving birth to Lilith in Berlin when only Aryans were considered a pure race. But as the story progressed, the emotions don't register. It’s like watching a movie on the neighbor’s telly. I can’t connect with any of the characters. The writing is kind of monotone, with very little emphasis to make me feel for any of the ladies. I’m not sure if the emotions were lost in translation, but all four of them sound the same, albeit in slightly different ways.
The story moves back and forth and is divided into three acts. The shifting timelines aren’t hard to track. A better way to read the book is to let it flow instead of trying to keep tabs on the period.
One aspect I love about the book is the theme of intergenerational trauma and its impact on people. The hatred for all Germans after the Nazi brutality, the mistrust of Cubans, and ordinary people trying to pick up the broken pieces of their lives, suffering from trauma that wasn’t even theirs, to begin with.
While I admire the research behind the book, I couldn’t understand much of the Cuban track. The writing assumes readers are knowledgeable of the topic to fill the gaps. Though I know enough of WWII and Berlin history, my knowledge of Cuba’s past isn’t that great.
The heavy and sad undertones are so consistent that it’s hard to read more than a few pages without feeling overwhelmed or lost. Even the lighthearted moments are tinged with melancholy and awareness that some devastating is around the corner.
This is a book I want to love, but I can only say I like it in parts. The ending is vague (not my favorite kind), leaving me dissatisfied about the plot but relieved that I could finally complete it.
To summarize, The Night Travelers is an overwhelming historical fiction that spans four generations of women and their lives in the backdrop of wars. This book is not for everyone (contains triggers).
Thank you, NetGalley and Atria Books, for the eARC.
#NightTravelers #NetGalley
January 3, 2023
Misfire by Tammy Euliano - Book Review
Misfire by Tammy Euliano
Series: Kate Downey
Genre: Medical Thriller
3.8 Stars
One Liner: Slow but entertaining
*****Kadence is a defibrillator recently approved by FDA. The device misfires, causing heart problems that need immediate correction to save the patient. When the misfires occur in succession, Dr. Kate Downey, an experienced anesthesiologist, suspects foul play. When her Aunt Irm also suffers from the misfire, Kate knows she needs to do something about it.
Christian O'Donnell, Kate’s friend and lawyer, is working with a client who wants to buy Kadence and other new medical aids created by the University team. Kate updates him about the issues, and they decide to investigate the cause with help from detective Garner.
Can Kate get to the bottom of the issue and save the patients fitted with Kadence? What does she have to do to protect the patients from being killed by a life-saving device?
The story comes from Kate’s POV.
My Thoughts:
The book is presented as a standalone though it has characters from the previous novel Fatal Intent. While it does work on its own to an extent, the subplot will be more effective if you read book one, especially since it has a significant space in this one.
I read Fatal Intent more than a year ago (and forgot most of it). However, I could get into the plot once I remembered the basics. Aunt Irm continues to be my favorite for a valid reason. She is quirky, loving, smart, and gets straight to the point.
The book is slow; understandable as it has medical jargon and details the reader needs to understand. There are quite a few threads too. This can be overwhelming if the reader wants only a medical thriller and ends up with a blend of family intrigue, romance, murders, kidnapping, and tech crimes.
There are enough twists and turns to keep us guessing (though I figured it out soon enough). Kate, as usual, takes risks she shouldn’t be taking but survives. The side characters like Nathan and Garner support the plot.
The scenes in the hospital are my favorite. The author’s experience in the field shows as she presents a realistic picture of the constant stress faced by medical personnel. The book also shows how women in the medical profession are still looked down upon despite their obvious talent.
The personal track between Kate and Christian was steady enough (and I think I like it better in this one). They make a good team, with Aunt Irm, of course, so I do look forward to more adventures and cases for them to solve.
To summarize, Misfire is the sequel to Fatal Intent and is best read that way. Enjoy this medical suspense with a touch of romance, a dash of pain, and a not-so-fictional medical aid. The author’s note at the end was enlightening (and a bit scary).
Thank you, NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing, for the eARC.
#NetGalley #Misfire
January 2, 2023
A Brief Summary of the Best and Worst Reads in 2022
I don't prefer to compile a list of books I've read in a year. This time, I wanted to give it a try and realized why I don't do it. (Too much work!). Still, 2022 has been a good year in terms of reading. I could read different genes and trade a variety of themes. Tried a couple of audiobooks too, which for me, is an achievement.
Here's a summation of my reads with links to the respective reviews.
Top 5 Reads of 2022 Absent in the Spring by Mary WestmacottGenre: Historical Fiction
Reason: What happens when Joan Scudamore is stranded in an isolated guest house when returning home? With too much time and nothing to do, she begins to see her life as it is and not as she believed it to be. But what if she’s wrong? This book is Christie’s finest work- layered, introspective, and deep. A must-read.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4605095748
***
Kibogo by Scholastique Mukasonga, Mark Polizzotti (Translator)Genre: Historical Fiction, Novella
Reason: Kibogo is the recounting of the constant clash between pagan beliefs and missionaries determined to evangelize Rwanda. The unseen narrator presents the distortion of native culture and beliefs through years of colonization. Can be triggering for some, but a worthy read, especially for Indians. You’ll notice many parallels.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/09/kibogo-by-scholastique-mukasonga-book.html
***
The Condemned Oak Tree by Ada Rossi
Genre: Literary Fiction
Reason: Maureen shares her story to reveal secrets she has buried (along with her husband) for years. Beautiful writing, layered plot, and great characterization. This slow book should be savored for the way it aligns nature and human emotions in an understated manner.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/06/the-condemned-oak-tree-by-ada-rossi.html
***
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna – 4.5 StarsGenre: Contemporary Romance, Fantasy
Reason: Mika Moon is an adorable witch without a family to call her own. She accepts an offer to train three kid witches, which could give her everything she ever wanted or break her heart all over again. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a sweet witchy book with loveable characters and slow-burn romance. It’s a perfect read for a lazy afternoon.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/07/the-very-secret-society-of-irregular.html
***
Crime Writer by Dime Sheppard – Five StarsGenre: Romcom, Thriller, Contemporary
Reason: What happens when an author’s characters come alive and exhibit free will? This is quirky, funny, dark, emotional, action-intensive, and super entertaining. A tasty kichadi indeed.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/12/crime-writer-by-dime-sheppard-book.html
*****
Top 5 Anthologies of 2022 How We Disappear: Novella & Stories by Tara Lynn Masih – 4.3 StarsGenre: Literary Fiction
Reason: This collection of short stories is dark and brooding. The thread of melancholy makes the collection a heavy read but one that’s worth a read and a revisit.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/07/how-we-disappear-novella-stories-by.html
***
Silverweed Road by Simon Cook – 4 StarsGenre: Horror
Reason: This is a wonderful collection of horror stories with a common theme set in the same creepy society. It is atmospheric, entertaining, and has some chilling stories to make horror fans happy.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/09/silverweed-road-by-simon-crook-book.html
***
Once Upon a Winter by H.L. Macfarlane & Other Authors- 3.8 Stars
Genre: Fairytale Retelling, Fantasy
Reason: The collection is creepy, chilly, horrifying, cute, funny, and whimsical. The stories are intriguing and diverse in their themes and create a compelling read.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/05/once-upon-winter-by-hl-macfarlane-book.html
***
Trail XIII: Path to Perdition by The Hive*Genre: Horror
Reason: The journey through Trail Xiii will take you through thirteen bone-chilling stories strewn along with the putrefying dead bodies. Beware, TRAIL XIII is not for the fainthearted. Tread carefully, for this is the path to perdition. Hush!
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58753976-trail-xiii---the-path-to-perdition
***
A Second Cup of Tea by The Hive*Genre: Feel-Good Short Stories
Reason: A Second Cup of Tea will make you laugh, cry, smile, and shake your head with an indulgent smile. From historical to mythical to humor and more- twenty-two writers have come together to brew a perfect blend of tea for every reader.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60791836-a-second-cup-of-tea
*****
Top 5 Children’s Books of 2022 (Illustrated) Lore of the Land: Folklore and Wisdom from the Wild Earth by Claire Cock-Starkey – 4.5 StarsReason: Lore of the Land is a beautiful collection of folklore about the earth, nature, and everything she offers. The myths and stories are provided in a single paragraph. The brevity helps retain more information. It’s time we learned from the lore and respected nature.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4984380869
***
What Little Boys Are Made Of: A Modern Nursery Rhyme by Susanna Leonard Hill – 5 StarsReason: What Little Boys Are Made Of is a beautiful and adorable book that breaks stereotypes and gently nudges kids to be confident in their skin. They deserve to be happy and loved.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4986016572
***
Hocus Pocus Practice Focus by Amy Kilmat – 4.5 Stars
Reason: Hocus Pocus Practice Focus is for kids and adults who want to enter the world of magic. I haven’t read any children’s book on this topic, and this one felt like it hit the right notes from start to finish.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4982196917
***
Kesar and the Lullaby Birds by Aditi Oza – 4.5 StarsReason: This is so beautiful! The illustrations are so earthy and lively. They show the beauty of the villagers and their artsy houses without erasing the native touch. The detailing of jewelry and attire is spot on.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4661728046
***
Into the Dark Forest (The Wildsmith #1) by Liz Flanagan – 4.5 StarsReason: Into the Dark Forest is a heartwarming and adorable story of little Rowan and dragons. Each chapter is short, pacy, and has enough descriptions to paint a picture of the setting and characters.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5082715222
*****
Top 5 Nonfiction Reads of 2022 Defence of Hindu Society by Sita Ram Goel – 4.5 StarsGenre: Political Nonfiction
Reason: The fact that the book is still relevant even today is all we need to know. There’s nothing respectable about being a doormat for others to walk over. Be assertive and read more.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/12/defence-of-hindu-society-by-sita-ram.html
***
Naham Karta Hari Karta by PVRK Prasad – 4.5 StarsGenre: Memoir
Reason: This book is a collection of incidents from the author’s 4-year stint at Tirupati as the EO of TTD. What I love the most is how Prasad Garu doesn’t shy away from expressing his emotions or sharing certain parts of his past.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/10/naham-karta-hari-karta-by-pvrk-prasad.html
***
Giant Genius Bhyrappa and Mirrors of His Novels by MS Vijaya Haran – 4.5 Stars Genre: Biography (of sorts)
Reason: Giant Genius Bhyrappa and Mirrors of His Novels is a tribute to literary genius and a wonderful way to know more about the man behind many successful novels. He is Bharat’s treasure indeed.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/08/giant-genius-bhyrappa-and-mirrors-of.html
***
Powered by Plants by Clive Gifford – 4.5 StarsGenre: Science, Nature
Reason: The book is detailed and has beautiful illustrations. Every page is bright, colorful, and cheerful. The expressions on some plants are hilarious. It is a must-read for little ones and adults. After all, we need to respect and accept nature as supreme before we ‘protect’ her.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4879211809
***
Happy Stories for Nature Lovers by Dawn Casey – 4.5 StarsGenre: Nature, Inspirational
Reason: Happy Stories for Nature Lovers is a short and informative book, a starting point for kids and adults to become eco-conscious and do their bit to co-exist with nature. The illustrations are earthy, adorable, and wonderful. The touch of native rawness blends perfectly with the content.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5005537421
*****
Worst 5 Reads of 2022Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel – 1 Star
Genre: ‘Feminist Mythological Retelling’
Reason: The book is supposedly a feminist retelling of Ramayana from Kaikeyi’s POV. Calling it far-fetched fan fiction with a Hinduphobic narrative would be an apt description. The book is an insult to the countless women Raavan abused.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/03/kaikeyi-by-vaishnavi-patel-book-review.html
***
Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks – 1 StarGenre: Historical Fiction (Black Death)
Reason: The book is about how a village quarantined itself during Black Death to stop the spread of the virus and prevent more deaths. It is supposedly inspired by real stories. However, the book deals with a multitude of issues and makes a mess of the second half. Never did I hate a happy ending as much as I did in this one.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4927855642
***
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens – 2.5 Stars Genre: Historical Drama
Reason: This is a much-loved book (now being made into a movie), and I went into it with great expectations. The best I can say about this is that you can ignore the story and read the filler (about marsh, nature, etc.). You’ll enjoy it more that way.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4488524946
***
The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak – 2.5 StarsGenre: Romance, Dual Timeline, Social Drama (and a failed attempt at magic realism)
Reason: Yet another highly acclaimed book that tries to do too much and doesn’t succeed at anything. The only thing I like is the premise and the backdrop of the civil war in Cyprus, between the Turks and Greeks.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4242664336
***
Can't Look Away by Carola Lovering – 2 StarsGenre: Drama (that tries to be a thriller), Dual Timeline
Reason: If only I looked away from this book! The characters are immature. There is too much info dump and almost zero intrigues to be called a thriller. One of those boring books you want to get over with and forget.
Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/06/cant-look-away-by-carola-lovering-book.html
*****
And... that's done. Hoping for a more fulfilling reading experience in 2023. Does this list any of your favorite (or not-so-favorite) books? What are your top 5 reads for 2022?
Do share in the comments. Have a happy new year.
*****
Disclaimer: I’m a co-founder and managing partner at The Hive Publishers. You are helping indie authors by supporting the books.
December 31, 2022
Heading Home to Lavender Cottage by Alison Sherlock
Heading Home to Lavender Cottage by Alison Sherlock
Publication Date: 9th Jan 2023
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction
4 Stars
One Liner: Lighthearted and heartwarming
*****Harriet returns to Cranfield, a sleepy little village, to sell her aunt and uncle’s cottage. The Lavender Cottage in Cranfield is the only place she calls home.
Already devastated by her beloved aunt and uncle’s deaths, Harriet is stunned to find that the lavender fields planted by her uncle will be razed to build an industrial warehouse. She decides to protest and bring the community together with the help of her friends Libby and Flora.
Joe Randall has negotiated countless deals for his family business and never thought about what it meant for the people whose lives changed forever. Cranfield brings him strange peace, and Harriet’s determination to save the village makes him question his work.
With both of them having to face their personal issues, can Harriet and Joe find what they want in Cranfield? Can the lavender fields be saved?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Harriet and Joe.
My Thoughts:
I wanted a light yet touching read to end the year on a happy-ish note. I’m glad I picked this one (last-minute choice). The writing is easy to read and flows well.
The pacing is steady. I could finish 300+ pages in a couple of days without speed reading. The setting is peaceful (that’s what lavender does!), and the characters are sweet (but not without flaws or issues).
Though the book deals with topics like death, grief, failure, insecurities, inferiority complex, etc., it’s not preachy or heavy.
The romance is a slow burn and sweet, a natural progression as the story moves forward. I also like that Harriet and Joe manage to sort out their issues without dragging them out for too long. This comes as a welcome move, especially when both of them are used to suppressing their emotions and putting on a confident/ positive façade.
The community spirit, which is crucial in small-town books, hits the mark with ease. The secondary characters are distinct enough and have definite personalities. I’m hoping they’ll get even better in the coming books.
I do wish Harriet’s parents had a little more space and that I could read more about Harriet’s life with her aunt and uncle.
To summarize, Heading Home to Lavender Cottage is a feel-good book with some lovely characters. It is a light and heartwarming read, perfect for a cozy afternoon. This is the first book in the series and a standalone. Looking forward to the next books with Libby and Flora’s stories.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books, for the eARC.
#HeadingHometoLavenderCottage #NetGalley
***
P.S.: The cover is beautiful, but Harriet is a redhead. I’d have liked it more if that teeny bit was synced between the cover and the book.
December 30, 2022
The Blue Bar by Damyanti Biswas
The Blue Bar by Damyanti Biswas
Series: Blue Mumbai #1 (Standalone)
Genre: Police Procedural, Thriller, Romantic Suspense
4.3 Stars
One Liner: Gritty and dark police procedural; entertaining
Tara Mondal disappears as a young bar dancer in Mumbai. No one knows where she went after a stint at a crowded railway station wearing a blue sequin saree.
Inspector Arnav Singh Rajput has had a busy career, but he can’t stop thinking about his girlfriend, Tara. It has been thirteen years since her disappearance.
A recent discovery of a dead body in a ligation land opens a can of worms. Inspector Arnav knows that it’s not a lone case but has very little to work on. It doesn’t help that the landowner is super rich and has enough influence to disrupt the case.
As things are set in motion, Arnav realizes that the case has links to his past, and there’s someone out there who will do anything to prevent him from finding the killer. Can Arnav get to the root of the matter? What will it cost him? What does Tara have to do with everything?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Arnav, Tara, and a couple of other characters.
What I Like:
As someone who devoured countless episodes of CID, Adalat, Arjun, Agent Raghav, PI, et al, reading this book was like revisiting the shows (albeit in a darker setting). Though I haven’t been to Mumbai, I identify the places from these shows. This familiarity is a definite plus.
The book is a gritty and dark police procedural that reminded me of Madhur Bhandarkar movies. In fact, his film Chandni Bar shows the stark realities of dance bars, the connections with the Mumbai underworld, and prostitution. The book also has Ram Gopal Verma’s vibes (not his Twitter personality, but his movies like Company and Sarkar).
Inspector Arnav is easy to like despite his flaws. Yeah, there were times I wanted to whack him on the head, but who doesn’t love a flawed character when he owns up to his mistakes and tries to become a better person? Tara and Zoya were well-etched. Nandini, too, though she is a little too flawless.
There is a love track that is seamlessly integrated into the plot instead of providing relief from the tension. This helps in sustaining the tempo and the dark mood throughout the book.
The story takes place during Dusshera and Diwali, which means there are enough references to Ravan Dahan. What I like (love) in this book is how Ravan is described as who he is. The killer is compared to Ravan for sexually assaulting, hurting, and murdering women.
(This shouldn’t even be a point to highlight. However, two books I read this year by Indian American authors made me emphasize this point. Kaikeyi outright whitewashed Ravan’s rapes and presented him as someone who respects women. Then, recently, The Bandit Queens had a statement that Ravan was madly in love with Sita. After this level of self-proclaimed feminism, it’s a relief to read something that mentions things as they are.)
Another aspect I like about the book is the maturity with which it deals with subjects like religion, politics, corruption, mafia, Bwood, etc. (It’s a relief to say this as a part of me was worried.)
There’s no virtue signaling or targeting based on ideology. Things are presented as they are and used for the plot. The writer’s focus has to be plot rather than pseudo activism. The author maintains the balance throughout, making it a fairly realistic Indian police procedural (or crime thriller).
The book deals with themes that have a great scope for graphical descriptions. While there is some description, it is not very detailed or graphic. This keeps the focus on the plot. The narration is controlled and gives enough information for the reader to imagine the rest.
The climax is ek dum filmy, an advantage and a disadvantage. It worked well for me (mostly) as I like watching the shootout scenes in crime shows. However, for a book, the scenes feel a little too filmy. It was fun to imagine one of my favorite small-screen actors in the lead role. ;)
What Could Have Been Better for Me:
I’m not a fan of slow-burn thrillers (a reason why I don’t enjoy noir). This one picks up pace as the story progressed, but the beginning is slow. The chapters with the killer’s POV distract the focus from the main plot. Those are necessary later on, but I feel around 5 chapters could have been removed and the information scattered into the other chapters. It would have tightened the narration.
A couple of words have incorrect meanings or spelling, though nothing that’ll affect your reading experience. One of them irked me as a South Indian, but I can see why it had to be done. (Indian readers, you know what I’m referring to.)
To summarize, The Blue Bar is an Indian crime thriller that presents the dark aspects of society but with a great balance and maturity. It is a desi novel I’m glad to have read (after being burnt by you-know-what), and looking forward to reading the second book in the series.
This book is not about exotic India with snake charmers or spicy cuisine. It is not about the dirty, poor, and stereotypical India where nothing good exists. The Blue Bar is India as Indians know it. It has good, bad, and ugly. Go with the right expectations, and you’ll enjoy the book more.
I should mention that I read the author’s Twitter thread about hateful and racist DMs she received for the book. It is saddening to see that happen, though I wonder if the reason partly lies with the book not catering to either stereotype mentioned above.
Thank you, Damyanti Biwas, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer, for the eARC.
#NetGalley #TheBlueBar
***
P.S.: I’m the co-founder and managing partner at The Hive Publishers. Damyanti has given us a wonderful foreword for our second book, Blood Runs Cold, a thriller anthology. She was our second guest at Heart2Heart with The Hive, an author-interview season hosted by my teammates.
However, this association doesn’t affect my review.
December 25, 2022
The Call of the Wrens by Jenni L. Walsh - Book Review
The Call of the Wrens by Jenni L. Walsh
Genre: Historical Fiction (War Fiction), Dual Timeline
4 Stars
One Liner: A less-explored area of WWI and WWII; Well-written
*****1917 England
Marion has to leave the orphanage when she turns eighteen. With nowhere to go, she joins the Women’s Royal Navy Service (Wrens) as a typist before becoming a motorcycle dispatch rider on the Western Front. With her newfound friend Sara and best friend Eddie, Marion finally feels her life has a purpose. However, an unexpected tragedy can rip everything away from her.
1936 England
Evelyn has no desire to be a society girl or get married. When the impending war ends her car racing dreams, she signs up for the Women’s Royal Navy Service, which is active once more to serve in WWII. Her parents threaten to cut her off if she doesn’t go home, but all Evelyn ever wanted was to be useful to the country.
How do the lives of ladies from both war-ridden times meet at a common point? What does it mean for Marion and Evelyn?
The story comes in the third-person POVs of Marion and Evelyn.
My Thoughts:
The intriguing premise and the cover caught my attention. The book does justice to the relatively lesser-known area of wars. The author's note at the end was a treat to read.
The first third of the book had a detailed backstory of our main characters. Though all of it was not war-related, I liked that I had a clear picture of their characteristics as the plot thickened.
The mid-section of the novel dipped in pacing as it dealt with the part which connects with timelines. The pace picked up in the third part and ends on a bittersweet yet heartwarming note.
Romance and love have a major share of the plot. While it fit the first timeline and was necessary, it somehow diluted the second timeline and even overshadowed the crux of the plot.
However, Marion, Sara, Eddie, and Evelyn were engaging (and flawed) characters. They could keep me interested even when I skimmed through a few dragging scenes. Both timelines were well-developed, so that’s a definite plus.
The writing was easy to read. It balanced internal and conflict well without delving too much into the horrific details of the war (after reading quite a few war fiction novels, I’m beginning to appreciate the ones that don’t provide graphic descriptions).
I learned about the role of women during the wars and loved every bit of it. They were a crucial part of the network that kept the troops coordinated and ready for attacks. They did amazing work behind the scenes (why am I not surprised?).
To summarize, The Call of the Wrens deals with the lesser-known roles of women during war as dispatch riders and pigeon trainers. It's an engrossing read with some memorable characters.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harper Muse, for the eARC.
#NetGalley #TheCalloftheWrens
December 24, 2022
Defence of Hindu Society by Sita Ram Goel - Book Review
***** Sita Ram Goel was a communist-turned-anti-communist who wrote a series of books about the centuries of damage done to the Indian subcontinent and culture by several Islamic and European invasions. This book deals with an important theme of how native Hindus should stop being submissive (or ashamed of their identity) and learn to connect to their roots and understand their pagan heritage.
There’s no fluff or needless commentary in this 110-page book. It is crisp, informative, and thought-provoking. The first chapter deals with biased media reporting, pseudo-activism in the name of caste and religion, and the mindless aping of the West without realizing the core differences in both societies.
Polytheism is a recurring theme in the book and helps us understand why there is absolutely no reason to ignore it or try to fit Hinduism into the monotheism category. After all, all pagan and neopagan cultures followed polytheism and idolatry. The book also distinguishes between mysticism in terms of spirituality and mysticism in terms of theology. The clash of spirituality and theology presents an interesting discussion and encourages further reading.
He also mentions the importance of symbolism and how appropriating the symbols or misusing them could take us further away from spirituality. This is 100% spot on, and the proof lies in the various yoga offerings (from beer yoga to gun yoga, naked yoga, and whatevercrap they come up with to commercialize a spiritual process) and the way some people throw around ‘your heart chakra is blocked’ in random comments. This particular point about separating symbolism from its core religion and spiritual roots applies to many ancient symbols that are now used to appear cool/ rebellious/ etc.
The author also points out how saying ‘all religions are the same’ causes more harm than good. Wouldn’t it be better if we acknowledge that each religion is different and can be respected for what it is? Why not celebrate the diversity of religions instead of trying to chop and twist them into predetermined parameters? In an Abrahamic world, why should pagans go on the defensive to follow their cultural heritage?
The international media loves to target a supposedly Hindu majoritarian India, but why don’t we see anyone writing about Islamic domination or Christian authority? No articles about non-Muslims as young as 9 being kidnapped, raped, converted, and married to men thrice their age (that too, as third and fourth wives) in Pakistan. There’s one case every week (sometimes more), but no one bats an eyelid. The great Ms. Malala doesn’t think these young girls deserve even a tweet of protest. How many Western media outlets covered the attacks on minority Hindus in Bangladesh? Why does no one talk about the minorities in Afghanistan or Baluchistan? Why is there hardly any protest about the grooming gangs in the UK? Don’t children deserve to be safe?
Hindus are a global minority, and there isn’t a single official Hindu country (India is secular). The answer lies in many factors:
• India is a third-world country
• India has browns who are active Hindus (pagans or idolators or kufrs)
The longer Hindus lie dormant or stay on the defensive, it easier it is to rule them (so what if the colonizers have left. They have created enough brown sepoys to take over). Read Krishen Kak’s experience when he wanted to research American life for his Ph.D. Was it easy for a brown Indian Hindu to show a mirror to the White West? You probably know the answer.
Racism is real and active, especially in academics. Quote from the blog:
“Prof Klor de Alva: “Who are you to write this about us? Can this be written about your country too?”
Prof Boon: “Your behaviour is uncharacteristic of Hindu behavior”
Across the table it went, around those two statements of theirs I’ve never forgotten. Cutting, insulting, snubbing. K de A saying that all that was needed was to replace the title page with one saying “India”, and what’s the difference. Boon’s statement suggesting that Hindu (not Indian, mind you, but Hindu) behaviour is characteristically one of humility, of abject and grateful servility.”
The book highlights the difference in the indoctrinated structure of monotheism and polytheism. When there’s only one god, one book, and one goal, it eliminates the space for others to exist. There is no acceptance of other/ different when ‘one’ is the central point. This may seem nothing when considered from an individual’s perspective. However, this resulted in wiping out civilizations and cultures over the centuries when masses denied the existence of anything other than their ‘one god’.
The book doesn’t just work for Hindu awareness but also for self-awareness and for people to realize that their roots and spiritual well-being could have a common link. Exploring one could create a path to achieve the other and find their inner self. Those who can read it with a balanced mind will see how it could help a person to look beyond the basic constraints/ rules defined by religion and consider things from a spiritual and overarching perspective.
The last chapter sums up the book in neat pointers and provides more information to deal with Hinduphobia. The intent is to have a thirst for native cultural history, go back to the basics, and learn with an open mind.
December 22, 2022
The Blackhouse by Carole Johnstone - Book Review
The Blackhouse by Carole Johnstone
Publication Date: 3rd Jan 2023
Genre: Mystery/ Thriller, Gothic (?)
2.7 Stars
One Liner: Atmospheric, but the rest doesn’t live up
Robert Reid moved to the Outer Hebrides in Scotland with his wife and son. He is an outsider and has a terrible secret to hide. Though Robert craves the security of a village community, his own fears prevent him from becoming one of the villagers. Soon, things go out of his control, and he has to pay the price.
Maggie MacKay was five when she declared that she was a dead man from the remote island of Kilmeray. She claims that he didn’t drown but was murdered by one of the villagers. Two decades later, Maggie goes back to the village to find out what really happened in the past. It’s not easy, as the locals don’t want to talk to her, and someone is determined to drive her out. What’s more, Maggie is still a nervous wreck and doesn’t know what to believe.
Can Maggie find the truth? What will it do to her?
The story comes from the first-person POV of Maggie and Robert in a dual timeline.
What I Like:
The story is set in a fictional village (based on a real setting) in Scotland. The rugged cliffs, crashing Atlantic waves, and scattered homes come alive on the pages.
The mood is dark, brooding, sinister, and uncomfortable almost throughout. It also has triggers (see at the end), which add to the mood (but also ruin the setting).
Charlie is a wonderfully layered character and vital to the plot’s progress. He is one of the most well-written side characters I’ve read.
Maggie’s mother is another intriguing character in the book. She is a passive yet constant presence in the book. But… (continued in the next section)
The theme of the small community sticking together and the conflicts between the villagers are well done. It establishes the strength and weaknesses of being a local community.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
The pacing is slow. While this is expected in the beginning, the narrative never really picks up speed. I resorted to speed-reading once I began to lose interest.
Maggie and Robert are the voices of the book. Yet, both failed to make me feel anything for them. Maggie was a tad better, but Robert’s arc was left unexplored, with a few aspects being repeated throughout the book. If a reader likes a side character more than the MCs, it is rather telling.
Maggie suffers from mental illness and is recovering from a breakdown. Yet, she jumps into insta-lust-love with Sexy Will, the local farmer. Will is actually a kind-hearted guy, but the focus isn’t on his attributes. I’m not sure how romance made the book better. Friendship would have worked just the same (or even better).
Kelly is a bright, cheerful character, possibly someone to lighten up the dark mood. However, she only managed to annoy me most of the time.
The book also relies on Norse mythology, but only to the extent of pushing a character over the edge of sanity. I didn’t particularly like this. There’s a lot more to pagan cultures than superstitions, sacrifices, or dark magic.
Finally, the ending; there’s a twist (or several), but the final one dilutes what the plot has been building until then. I don’t fall into the majority category that likes the ending. For me, it looks like a final twist to surprise the readers and a convenient way to conclude the plot.
To summarize, The Blackhouse is a slow atmospheric novel with a strong setting. Read the other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and Scribner, for the eARC.
#NetGalley #TheBlackhouse
TW: Mental illness, manipulation by a parent, murder of a child, attempted suicide, death of animals, infidelity.
