Meghant Parmar's Blog, page 9
September 4, 2014
Review: Never Go Back by Lee Child (Jack Reacher, #18)
Some characters in books never age. They live as long as the pen of their respective authors keep filling up pages to give them a larger than life story. Author Lee Child continuing with the tradition takes his most bankable character Jack Reacher through motions in the latest story "Never Go Back". So how this latest offering from him turn out to be? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and one can get the fresh and lonely feel of a figure standing in the midst of nowhere. It's a trademark Lee Child style and the colour contrast manages to catch the attention of the readers. The blurb as usual is full of intrigue and suspense and holds back the plot pushing the readers towards a candid journey of Jack Reacher.
The story has been set off in Washington D.C where Jack Reacher has returned back to his old command i.e 110 M.P to meet Susan Turner. But what awaits him is a bag full of surprises when instinctively he finds himself embroiled in two cases and few more undue controversies. He quickly reacts to the situation and tries to get hold of his only known source Turner but finds that she is amiss from the scene. So what will happen to Reacher this time? Will this homecoming a celebration or turn out to be another party pooper? What's there from the past that will come back to haunt him and how will he stand up against an entire invisible force to serve justice to him and the others? That's what the story is all about.
The story is set off in a slow motion pretty much on the lines of what one expects from Reacher series. You need to get soaked in the atmosphere and then look out for spin-offs and surprises best served cold to the readers. It's the hidden entities behind the whole saga that sets tone for the novel and this one goes through a similar motion. A sluggish yet steady inclusions of numerous problems in the book and lengthy suspense and drama sequences make it a candid affair. The book running the course without turning back once and getting the readers sucked in it's entire length and breadth. The story maintains the sanctity of a thriller and drama and chugs along on a dangerous territory with lot of impetus on the past and bits of present.
The downside of the book is it's sheer slowness at times eats away the excitement. The entire sequence of events never adding up to a perfect finish to the book. The revelations pretty dull and the antagonist not as forceful and active as one expects to be. The sidekicks pretty much hogging the limelight from the main antagonist. The story becomes a dull affair and the two parallel lines doesn't quite offers a spectacular or a jaw dropping finish to the book. It softens up bit too much for the liking of the readers.
All in all it's a mixed affair. The book manages to remain sane for most of the part but insanity sets in towards the end. The story gets battered and scarred but still holds off through the motions of Jack Reacher. It's not entirely convincing as a story but enough to keep the interest alive for the future books featuring Reacher. A sharper deliverance is what was required while filling up the gaps of a weak homecoming. A bitter sweet experience for the readers.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
Lee Child brings to yet again an intriguing story about Jack Reacher, a former American military policeman. He travels from South Dakota to Washington D. C. to meet his new commanding officer, Major Susan Turner. On reaching the destination Reacher discovers that Turner is missing and what more, he is accused of murdering a sixteen year old.
Will Reacher regret his decision of going back or get a clean chit after finding his commanding officer, Major Susan Turner. Time is running and Reacher has to make quick moves and decisions to clear his name off the criminal charge.Never Go Back, is apt for those who like to turn pages after pages to know what’s going to happen next.
First look at the title and the cover and one can get the fresh and lonely feel of a figure standing in the midst of nowhere. It's a trademark Lee Child style and the colour contrast manages to catch the attention of the readers. The blurb as usual is full of intrigue and suspense and holds back the plot pushing the readers towards a candid journey of Jack Reacher.
The story has been set off in Washington D.C where Jack Reacher has returned back to his old command i.e 110 M.P to meet Susan Turner. But what awaits him is a bag full of surprises when instinctively he finds himself embroiled in two cases and few more undue controversies. He quickly reacts to the situation and tries to get hold of his only known source Turner but finds that she is amiss from the scene. So what will happen to Reacher this time? Will this homecoming a celebration or turn out to be another party pooper? What's there from the past that will come back to haunt him and how will he stand up against an entire invisible force to serve justice to him and the others? That's what the story is all about.
The story is set off in a slow motion pretty much on the lines of what one expects from Reacher series. You need to get soaked in the atmosphere and then look out for spin-offs and surprises best served cold to the readers. It's the hidden entities behind the whole saga that sets tone for the novel and this one goes through a similar motion. A sluggish yet steady inclusions of numerous problems in the book and lengthy suspense and drama sequences make it a candid affair. The book running the course without turning back once and getting the readers sucked in it's entire length and breadth. The story maintains the sanctity of a thriller and drama and chugs along on a dangerous territory with lot of impetus on the past and bits of present.
The downside of the book is it's sheer slowness at times eats away the excitement. The entire sequence of events never adding up to a perfect finish to the book. The revelations pretty dull and the antagonist not as forceful and active as one expects to be. The sidekicks pretty much hogging the limelight from the main antagonist. The story becomes a dull affair and the two parallel lines doesn't quite offers a spectacular or a jaw dropping finish to the book. It softens up bit too much for the liking of the readers.
All in all it's a mixed affair. The book manages to remain sane for most of the part but insanity sets in towards the end. The story gets battered and scarred but still holds off through the motions of Jack Reacher. It's not entirely convincing as a story but enough to keep the interest alive for the future books featuring Reacher. A sharper deliverance is what was required while filling up the gaps of a weak homecoming. A bitter sweet experience for the readers.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
September 1, 2014
Review: Ajaya: Epic of the Kaurava Clan by Anand Neelakantan
When history is written or narrated the name Mahabharata does strikes a bell. It's much grander than any living legend on earth. The epic continues to enthral the masses with the same flavour and fervour from ancient times. Author Anand Neelakantan in his new book "Ajaya: Epic of the Kaurava Clan" tries to lend a new perspective to the epic with a style of his own. So does it works? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and the tagline suits the cover image. The title bearing the mark of history all over it. The cover image with a flag and a rising sun is a benchmark as to what one can expect from the book. The blurb talks about one of the most revered epics of all times and it's bearing on mankind. The blurb manages to keep away the all important facts of the book and thus, keeping the curiosity alive.
The story is set in the times of Mahabharata when two clans clashed for power and survival. Kauravas and Pandavas were at helm of the prosperity of Bharat and their kingdom but not all was in their control. The outside interference and the inner frictions gave birth to a rivalry so dark that it affected one man looked at another in the years to come. The story is of brother in arms falling apart and becoming sworn enemies of each other. So who will survive the test of time and who will rise to the glory? What awaits both the clans and who will it by force or by con? That's what the story is all about.
The story set in the epic times refreshes your memories and reminds of the good old days when it was all about power and brotherhood and enemies. The story unfurls in a different style keeping Kauravas at the helm and Pandavas in the backdrop. It has been manoeuvred with craft and skill and there's a clear mandate to make it not obvious for the readers. The introduction of new characters infuses new life to the story as the newbies play a pivotal role in shaping up the core of the book and its context to the history. The narration is a mix of lucid and some deep diggings of those times.
The downside of the book is it's failure to capture the exact emotions of Kauravas and the role reversal is only effective for a short period of time. The new characters look good but then there's no fixed part to play after a certain period of time in the story. The Kauravas v/s Pandavas still remains the same as there is not much to savour when it comes to newness and freshness in the storyline. The book should have been cut down a bit to keep the sanctity alive as it tends to over exaggerate at times.
All in all it's not the perfect served book to the readers. There are times of hurrah and times of sigh too. It's a travel down to the memory lane reliving the epic in a grand style. But then the book doesn't sheds limelight as to what exact purpose it wants to solve by retelling the tale. There are good and bad moments but more stress could have been given in creating the perfect atmosphere for historical fiction buffs. The book is a mixed affair.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
The book is set in the backdrop of India’s most powerful empire. A revolution is about to happen and Bhishma, finds himself struggling to maintain the unity of his empire. Dhritarashtra, is the reigning King with his foreign-born Queen, Gandhari. Kunti, the Dowager-Queen, meanwhile waits in the background to see her firstborn son become the rightful ruler of the kingdom. The other key characters in the book are Eklavya, Karna, Parashurama, Balarama, Jara, and Takshaka. Amidst, all the confusion and power struggle, Prince Suyodhana, the rightful heir to the throne stands tall, determined to claim the throne. Meanwhile, in the corridors of Hastinapur a plot to overthrow the present King and conquer India is brewing. Who ultimately gets to sit on the throne and be the most deserving King?
First look at the title and the cover and the tagline suits the cover image. The title bearing the mark of history all over it. The cover image with a flag and a rising sun is a benchmark as to what one can expect from the book. The blurb talks about one of the most revered epics of all times and it's bearing on mankind. The blurb manages to keep away the all important facts of the book and thus, keeping the curiosity alive.
The story is set in the times of Mahabharata when two clans clashed for power and survival. Kauravas and Pandavas were at helm of the prosperity of Bharat and their kingdom but not all was in their control. The outside interference and the inner frictions gave birth to a rivalry so dark that it affected one man looked at another in the years to come. The story is of brother in arms falling apart and becoming sworn enemies of each other. So who will survive the test of time and who will rise to the glory? What awaits both the clans and who will it by force or by con? That's what the story is all about.
The story set in the epic times refreshes your memories and reminds of the good old days when it was all about power and brotherhood and enemies. The story unfurls in a different style keeping Kauravas at the helm and Pandavas in the backdrop. It has been manoeuvred with craft and skill and there's a clear mandate to make it not obvious for the readers. The introduction of new characters infuses new life to the story as the newbies play a pivotal role in shaping up the core of the book and its context to the history. The narration is a mix of lucid and some deep diggings of those times.
The downside of the book is it's failure to capture the exact emotions of Kauravas and the role reversal is only effective for a short period of time. The new characters look good but then there's no fixed part to play after a certain period of time in the story. The Kauravas v/s Pandavas still remains the same as there is not much to savour when it comes to newness and freshness in the storyline. The book should have been cut down a bit to keep the sanctity alive as it tends to over exaggerate at times.
All in all it's not the perfect served book to the readers. There are times of hurrah and times of sigh too. It's a travel down to the memory lane reliving the epic in a grand style. But then the book doesn't sheds limelight as to what exact purpose it wants to solve by retelling the tale. There are good and bad moments but more stress could have been given in creating the perfect atmosphere for historical fiction buffs. The book is a mixed affair.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
August 26, 2014
Review: The Escaped Moments by Jaasindah R Mir
When life offers you nothing you need to dig deep and dig hard to find the best for yourself. There are times when you are down and out and support is scarce then you become your own support. Author Jaasindah R Mir in her book "The Escaped Moments" gives a young girl wings to fly and be on her own. So will this perspective to life work? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and one can see a lit of grief in the eyes of the girl who adorns the cover. The title is quite out of the league but keeps the book's sanctity alive. The blurb talks about a girl and her tirades with life at a very young age. The blurb manages to leave subtle hints as what to expect from the book.
The story is of Aatirah, a young girl living in Kashmir. Her family torn apart and she leading a life of a complete slave in her house. Her constant exchanges with her step mother and a disapproving father. Life is not as easy as she imagines and gradually it dawns upon her. With time she tries to seek solace from different facets of life and in it she gets involved completely. So will Aatirah be able to sustain the test of time? Will life be any merrier outside the four walls of her house? Where will she find inner peace and happiness? What will happen of her in time? That's what the story is all about.
The story has a parallel imagination where it tries to differentiate between the mind and heart anomalies. The conflicts between the two pretty interesting and giving life to the young character. The innocence and fear partaking in grooming the girl throughout the book. Her constant measures to find happiness and seek solace and uncover various facets of life never going unnoticed. The narration lends a mesmerizing touch to the entire story. The added enigma being the brave decisions and lack of confidence at times in tandem. The young girl growing apart constantly and covering the societal dilemmas in a crude way. The ups and downs of her life is an engagement in itself.
The downside of the story is its sluggish approach at times and taking away the charm from the story. The dull moments sometimes burdening the story and hampering the progress. A few more candles of hope could have been lightened up in the story.
All in all the story has a mix of youth and adult perspective to a lot of things. The story taking deep plunge into the minds of a conflicted soul and steering away the thoughts of fear and negativity. The good and bad following the girl like a shadow. The book manages to steal quite a few moments from the readers. The entire set up a perfect scenario for a young life. A little more liveliness could have done wonders. A story with vivid approach to life.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
Aatirah Rohail Kazi, a fifteen-year-old small town girl of Kashmir, has only seen the grey shades of childhood since her mother died. There are a lot of things Aatirah hates about her life: her cruel step-mother, her dad and her moronic step brother. For the past five years Aatirah has hidden her troubles from everyone. It's only when she finds Mysha at a social networking site, she confides into her. But now things are getting complicated: Mysha wants Aatirah to solve a complex love triangle between Mysha, Sahir and Tamanna. To top it all off, Aatirah has taken to smoking out of stress . Would Aatirah be successful at grabbing the freedom of her heart by opening up to a distant person or does the desire of having a friend to confide into have a bigger price to pay?
First look at the title and the cover and one can see a lit of grief in the eyes of the girl who adorns the cover. The title is quite out of the league but keeps the book's sanctity alive. The blurb talks about a girl and her tirades with life at a very young age. The blurb manages to leave subtle hints as what to expect from the book.
The story is of Aatirah, a young girl living in Kashmir. Her family torn apart and she leading a life of a complete slave in her house. Her constant exchanges with her step mother and a disapproving father. Life is not as easy as she imagines and gradually it dawns upon her. With time she tries to seek solace from different facets of life and in it she gets involved completely. So will Aatirah be able to sustain the test of time? Will life be any merrier outside the four walls of her house? Where will she find inner peace and happiness? What will happen of her in time? That's what the story is all about.
The story has a parallel imagination where it tries to differentiate between the mind and heart anomalies. The conflicts between the two pretty interesting and giving life to the young character. The innocence and fear partaking in grooming the girl throughout the book. Her constant measures to find happiness and seek solace and uncover various facets of life never going unnoticed. The narration lends a mesmerizing touch to the entire story. The added enigma being the brave decisions and lack of confidence at times in tandem. The young girl growing apart constantly and covering the societal dilemmas in a crude way. The ups and downs of her life is an engagement in itself.
The downside of the story is its sluggish approach at times and taking away the charm from the story. The dull moments sometimes burdening the story and hampering the progress. A few more candles of hope could have been lightened up in the story.
All in all the story has a mix of youth and adult perspective to a lot of things. The story taking deep plunge into the minds of a conflicted soul and steering away the thoughts of fear and negativity. The good and bad following the girl like a shadow. The book manages to steal quite a few moments from the readers. The entire set up a perfect scenario for a young life. A little more liveliness could have done wonders. A story with vivid approach to life.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
August 16, 2014
Review: The Hidden Letters by Purba Chakraborty
What's there to be expressed in love it has to be and what's there to be hidden stays buried forever. Man is not known to be the best when it comes to burying deep dark secrets but few things do manage to avoid the public glare. Author Purba Chakraborty in her latest book " The Hidden Letters" tries to touch lives through her characters and her story. So how much she succeeds in pulling off the book? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and one gets mesmerized for sure. The pain in the eyes of the lady on the cover says it all. The title mysterious but directs the emotions towards sadness and yet allows the readers to maintain calm. The blurb talks about few people and how their lives are entwined to each other. It's a blurb which gives space to the author to vent out the exact emotions which she wants the readers to feel. A well constituted blurb for the book.
The story revolves around three people namely Nishith, Anaya and Varsha. All of three of them lived in a happy world until the bubble bursts and it oozes pain for some while happiness for the others. Life takes a drastic turn for all three of them and they are headed for a showdown in the near future but someone wants it to turn around the other way. So will life turn out to be bitter for the three of them? What has emotions to offer them in their respective state of affairs? Will they be able to keep everything in check? That's what the story is all about.
When the closet of the past opens a lot of secrets tumble out. It might be positive or negative but it teaches people to live with it. Sometimes you need to live for the other that is what the book teaches you all the time. The involvement of three people in each others lives is not an eyewash as it sheds light on understanding, solidarity, loyalty, the bond of friendship and above all love and care for each other. The book breaks the barriers and outstretches its hands in the directions of hope and despair at the same time. There is a sense of joy along with copious amount of sorrow which has been given enough space in entire story. The book manages to hold the definition of love true in disbeliever's eyes and show the difference between what's true and what's a myth in love with great command. The improvisation on certain elements of love throughout the book is also noteworthy and praiseworthy.
The downside of the book is couple of mistakes in describing events which if one is in a flow vanishes without a trace. Apart from that there's no other mistake in the book.
All in all the story binds the readers and characters together. If it talks love, it talks in detail, if sorrow is there it delves deep and if it;s about hope and helplessness it says it all with it's immaculate descriptions. A story which pulls out all stops to let the readers sink in the travesties of life. It covers the dark as well as the sun shine and opens and ends with great resolute. A story capable of touching lives and bring smile on your face and tears in your eyes. All credits to be given to the authors to carve a sensitive piece of work with utmost delicacy. The story exploits love and hate to the hilt which adds to its beauty. A befitting piece of fiction.
RATINGS:
4 OUT OF 5
She is a successful author, a loving wife and the worlds best mom. Her doctor husband dotes on her, her teenage daughter idolizes her and her readers yearn for her writing. Shouldn't all that respect and love make her happy?
Yet, she is devoid of inner peace. In the wee hours of the night, her slumber is disturbed by horrifying nightmares. All her harmony is abducted and lost amidst the bunch of hidden letters kept in her cupboard. Those letters were written long back by her cousin, presently a patient at a mental asylum in Kolkata.
Haunted by her inner demons and tired by the long-time secrecy, she decides to put end to her misery by surrendering to her husband and daughter, The hidden letters. Will she lose her husbands love and daughters respect? Can she forgive herself for her own selfishness which rendered her cousins fate malignant?
First look at the title and the cover and one gets mesmerized for sure. The pain in the eyes of the lady on the cover says it all. The title mysterious but directs the emotions towards sadness and yet allows the readers to maintain calm. The blurb talks about few people and how their lives are entwined to each other. It's a blurb which gives space to the author to vent out the exact emotions which she wants the readers to feel. A well constituted blurb for the book.
The story revolves around three people namely Nishith, Anaya and Varsha. All of three of them lived in a happy world until the bubble bursts and it oozes pain for some while happiness for the others. Life takes a drastic turn for all three of them and they are headed for a showdown in the near future but someone wants it to turn around the other way. So will life turn out to be bitter for the three of them? What has emotions to offer them in their respective state of affairs? Will they be able to keep everything in check? That's what the story is all about.
When the closet of the past opens a lot of secrets tumble out. It might be positive or negative but it teaches people to live with it. Sometimes you need to live for the other that is what the book teaches you all the time. The involvement of three people in each others lives is not an eyewash as it sheds light on understanding, solidarity, loyalty, the bond of friendship and above all love and care for each other. The book breaks the barriers and outstretches its hands in the directions of hope and despair at the same time. There is a sense of joy along with copious amount of sorrow which has been given enough space in entire story. The book manages to hold the definition of love true in disbeliever's eyes and show the difference between what's true and what's a myth in love with great command. The improvisation on certain elements of love throughout the book is also noteworthy and praiseworthy.
The downside of the book is couple of mistakes in describing events which if one is in a flow vanishes without a trace. Apart from that there's no other mistake in the book.
All in all the story binds the readers and characters together. If it talks love, it talks in detail, if sorrow is there it delves deep and if it;s about hope and helplessness it says it all with it's immaculate descriptions. A story which pulls out all stops to let the readers sink in the travesties of life. It covers the dark as well as the sun shine and opens and ends with great resolute. A story capable of touching lives and bring smile on your face and tears in your eyes. All credits to be given to the authors to carve a sensitive piece of work with utmost delicacy. The story exploits love and hate to the hilt which adds to its beauty. A befitting piece of fiction.
RATINGS:
4 OUT OF 5
August 11, 2014
Review: Emotions Unplugged by Vishal Anand
Short stories have gained an uncanny popularity in the past one year and it continues to revive the trend by giving it a concrete term "anthology". Solo efforts and collaborative collections have paved way to the market to capture the eager eyes of the readers. Author Vishal Anand in his debut attempt "Emotions Unplugged" tries to gather his experiences and deliver an anthology of his own. So does it works for him? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and it gives your expectations wings. The unique idea of the cover images gels well with the title and gives it a gentle touch. The blurb giving slight glimpses from some stories in the book and leaving rest for the readers to read and decipher.
Story No. 1:
The story of a young couple who have hit a rough patch and it all comes down to a circle when they try to make it work. It's a nice story with a touch of realism and the insensitivity and growing frustrations among people. It starts on a bright note but doesn't manages to pull off anything out of the blues.
Story No. 2:
The story revolves around an old man and some etiquettes which one need to learn about. The story is pretty simple in narration and opens up to teach a lesson. It's a nice flower plucked out of a bunch.
Story No. 3:
It's a story of young girl, her miseries and the acts of selflessness and fear which sometimes leads you to good or either bad. The story turns out to be heart warming and then slowly nudges along towards a better finish but fails to inspire a neat end. The story with lot of emotions.
Story No. 4:
The story is about a bond and the commitment towards it. The story touches hearts in a simple manner and manages to capture the best of a relationship with good command. It's a subtle change that binds it together till the end.
Story No. 5:
The past can never be left out and it always comes back to reminds us about our fond and faded memories. The story starts and ends on a positive note with a lot of hope. But the entire sequence of event doesn't manages to pull off anything extraordinary out of the bag. An average narration.
Story No. 6:
It's not your good deeds that speak for you but the sins you committed make you suffer. The story is about one such suffering. The story starts off well, chugs off fine, gives a nice revelation and then fades away in the end which looks pale and abrupt.
Story No. 7:
An eye opener is always necessary when it concerns your knowledge. This is where your self belief and experience comes handy. It's a travelogue story and manages to highlight the disparity between the people of our country. It captures the problematic side of the story but it doesn't gives a polished look with too little to savour about other characters in the story.
Story No. 8:
Chivalry is not dead and it never will be. There will be always that one man in your life who will showcase the traits of a man. The story starts and ends on a high and keeps the humanity alive and the past differences aside. A good narrative.
Story No. 9:
Revenge is strange and it comes from the unexpected quarters. The story runs on the revenge lines but with copious amount of suspense and then delivers the right punch at the right time. It's a good story.
Story No. 10:
Humanity is a trait which comes naturally to a person. The story revolves on the lines of humanity and does manages to cover a fair distance in removing the divide of religion from the minds of the people. The story comes out with a good message for the readers.
Story No. 11:
For there is hate, there is love too. For there is filth, there is some cleanliness too. The story comes in phases of past, present and an uncertain future and manages to reveal the dark side of a soul. It does shines later and captures hearts with the act of selflessness.
Story No. 12:
All it takes wings and a flight upwards to reach your goal and achieve your dreams. Equality has always been a major issue in our society and this stigma still prevails in few parts. But the story clears out some air and gives wings to the dreams and hopes to the hopeless and the support which one needs from their near and dear ones. It's a very good narrative.
Story No. 13:
Sometimes in life some unsaid words can create misunderstandings and in turn cause you a grief of a lifetime. The story captures the essence of friendship and stalemates and makes it look like an everyday affair with positivity and hope to go along. It's not a sparkling story but it's not bad either.
Story No. 14:
There are few in the world who do care about women and their existence on the face of this earth. It's a sham there are many who still snub the idea. But this story keeps that womanhood alive and leaves a grave mark on the mind of the readers. It keeps the hopes alive for a girl who becomes a saviour for another girl and creates a world of love and care. It's the best story of the lot.
Story No. 15:
For what you do wrong to people it always comes back to haunt you some or the other time in life. The story turns out to be one such revenge seekers and covering the journey from rich to the pauper. It's a good old story but there's not much to ponder or striking about it.
15 stories and most of them picked up from the everyday occurrences of life. The language has been kept simple and the narration has a see saw tempo which suits the flaring tempers or the calm minds of the readers. The book does manages to unplug many emotions and captures vivid colours of life with it's extensive coverage on various subjects. From the darker recesses to light of hope there's a story for everyone to read and enjoy. Special mentions for stories 11, 12 and 14 which turn around the tide for the book in the second half and keeps the spirit alive.
The downside of the book is it's pale first half where the stories turn out to be party spoiler. A few of them with abrupt endings not giving a befitting end and bereaving the book of it's charm. Grammatical mistakes too occupy the book, not in large numbers but still could have been avoided. The spark fading in the veils of simplicity at times also adds to lacklustre deliverance of few narratives.
All in all the book tries to bring out the best for readers of all kinds. The forefront being the wide variety of emotions displayed by the living souls towards one another. On one hand it keeps the spirit of humanism alive and on the other it gives preferences to humanity. The duller approach sometimes not working in few of them and making it pale. It's a nice anthology which adopts and strives hard to capture it all in one go.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
The fifteen stories in Emotions Unplugged tell of ordinary people finding themselves in new situations – coping with divorce, financial ruin, realizing the importance of your grandparents, and falling love with a complete stranger. The author also deals with social issues, such as divorces and remarriage, deterioration of politics, vulnerability to commit crimes, and the caste system prevalent in India. This book is an autobiography of sorts in which the stories reflect the author’s personal experiences. The book comprises of stories, such as The Veiled Girl, in which Vinit, the protagonist, falls in love with a veiled girl while travelling in Delhi metro to reach his office every day. In A Day before My Divorce, Diksha travels through the streets of Mumbai a day before her divorce. Emotions Unplugged comprises of poignant and heart-warming stories which will make for an ideal read.
First look at the title and the cover and it gives your expectations wings. The unique idea of the cover images gels well with the title and gives it a gentle touch. The blurb giving slight glimpses from some stories in the book and leaving rest for the readers to read and decipher.
Story No. 1:
The story of a young couple who have hit a rough patch and it all comes down to a circle when they try to make it work. It's a nice story with a touch of realism and the insensitivity and growing frustrations among people. It starts on a bright note but doesn't manages to pull off anything out of the blues.
Story No. 2:
The story revolves around an old man and some etiquettes which one need to learn about. The story is pretty simple in narration and opens up to teach a lesson. It's a nice flower plucked out of a bunch.
Story No. 3:
It's a story of young girl, her miseries and the acts of selflessness and fear which sometimes leads you to good or either bad. The story turns out to be heart warming and then slowly nudges along towards a better finish but fails to inspire a neat end. The story with lot of emotions.
Story No. 4:
The story is about a bond and the commitment towards it. The story touches hearts in a simple manner and manages to capture the best of a relationship with good command. It's a subtle change that binds it together till the end.
Story No. 5:
The past can never be left out and it always comes back to reminds us about our fond and faded memories. The story starts and ends on a positive note with a lot of hope. But the entire sequence of event doesn't manages to pull off anything extraordinary out of the bag. An average narration.
Story No. 6:
It's not your good deeds that speak for you but the sins you committed make you suffer. The story is about one such suffering. The story starts off well, chugs off fine, gives a nice revelation and then fades away in the end which looks pale and abrupt.
Story No. 7:
An eye opener is always necessary when it concerns your knowledge. This is where your self belief and experience comes handy. It's a travelogue story and manages to highlight the disparity between the people of our country. It captures the problematic side of the story but it doesn't gives a polished look with too little to savour about other characters in the story.
Story No. 8:
Chivalry is not dead and it never will be. There will be always that one man in your life who will showcase the traits of a man. The story starts and ends on a high and keeps the humanity alive and the past differences aside. A good narrative.
Story No. 9:
Revenge is strange and it comes from the unexpected quarters. The story runs on the revenge lines but with copious amount of suspense and then delivers the right punch at the right time. It's a good story.
Story No. 10:
Humanity is a trait which comes naturally to a person. The story revolves on the lines of humanity and does manages to cover a fair distance in removing the divide of religion from the minds of the people. The story comes out with a good message for the readers.
Story No. 11:
For there is hate, there is love too. For there is filth, there is some cleanliness too. The story comes in phases of past, present and an uncertain future and manages to reveal the dark side of a soul. It does shines later and captures hearts with the act of selflessness.
Story No. 12:
All it takes wings and a flight upwards to reach your goal and achieve your dreams. Equality has always been a major issue in our society and this stigma still prevails in few parts. But the story clears out some air and gives wings to the dreams and hopes to the hopeless and the support which one needs from their near and dear ones. It's a very good narrative.
Story No. 13:
Sometimes in life some unsaid words can create misunderstandings and in turn cause you a grief of a lifetime. The story captures the essence of friendship and stalemates and makes it look like an everyday affair with positivity and hope to go along. It's not a sparkling story but it's not bad either.
Story No. 14:
There are few in the world who do care about women and their existence on the face of this earth. It's a sham there are many who still snub the idea. But this story keeps that womanhood alive and leaves a grave mark on the mind of the readers. It keeps the hopes alive for a girl who becomes a saviour for another girl and creates a world of love and care. It's the best story of the lot.
Story No. 15:
For what you do wrong to people it always comes back to haunt you some or the other time in life. The story turns out to be one such revenge seekers and covering the journey from rich to the pauper. It's a good old story but there's not much to ponder or striking about it.
15 stories and most of them picked up from the everyday occurrences of life. The language has been kept simple and the narration has a see saw tempo which suits the flaring tempers or the calm minds of the readers. The book does manages to unplug many emotions and captures vivid colours of life with it's extensive coverage on various subjects. From the darker recesses to light of hope there's a story for everyone to read and enjoy. Special mentions for stories 11, 12 and 14 which turn around the tide for the book in the second half and keeps the spirit alive.
The downside of the book is it's pale first half where the stories turn out to be party spoiler. A few of them with abrupt endings not giving a befitting end and bereaving the book of it's charm. Grammatical mistakes too occupy the book, not in large numbers but still could have been avoided. The spark fading in the veils of simplicity at times also adds to lacklustre deliverance of few narratives.
All in all the book tries to bring out the best for readers of all kinds. The forefront being the wide variety of emotions displayed by the living souls towards one another. On one hand it keeps the spirit of humanism alive and on the other it gives preferences to humanity. The duller approach sometimes not working in few of them and making it pale. It's a nice anthology which adopts and strives hard to capture it all in one go.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
August 4, 2014
Review: The Mayan Secrets by Clive Cussler & Thomas Perry (Fargo Adventures, #5)
History has a bearing and with time a lot of things known to our ancestors have fallen prey to hoarders or looters or in the worst case being under the protection of nature. A lot many of them buried deep down from the prying eyes of man. Author Clive Cussler & Thomas Perry in the latest of the Fargo Series "The Mayan Secrets" try their hands on taking readers for a spin on a Mayan trail. So does the idea clicks? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and readers can easily guess the genre. The word adventure is pretty much evident on the cover. The title itself pointing it towards history and adventure mixed together in one. The blurb talks about the favourite character of the series and their latest adventures in the Mayan land. The blurb pretty much is successful in concealing a lot of surprises in store for the readers.
The story starts off from Mexico where a volcano has hit and Sam & Remi Fargo out of humanity reach a small town to help people out. But when they stumble across a corpse holding a secret buried in the womb of the volcano things change pretty quickly around them. They find themselves on the move as a wealthy woman Sarah Allersby is on their tail to capture what she thinks deserves a rightful place in her house. But Sam & Remi Fargo will try to protect history and it's secrets till their last breath. So it's a race against time to uncover the Mayans and their legacy and prevent it from falling in the wrong hands. That's what the story is all about.
There are a lot of elements which make this book a pleasure to read. It takes off like a plane, steady and turbulent once in air and then gradually gains momentum. It promises action, adventure and history and delivers upon it during the entire sequence of events. The action slick and engaging all throughout. The farthest corners of the world and the riches of a lost civilization unfurled in a serene manner in front of the readers eyes. There is curiosity as what next is going to happen in the book which helps it in sustaining the prying eyes of voracious readers.
The book falters relatively in the second half where it becomes more of adventure than a discovery. The sore part that it gives up unceremoniously on the cards which are held close to the chest and becomes fairly predictable. History left out in the backdrop and action taking a lot of time. Many other unwanted incidents and mafia angle making it a dragged book. The promise to hold on to a perfect delivery fades as it inches towards the end. The antagonist not that scary in demeanour as one would have expected.
All in all the book manages to combine history and adventure and scores full marks in that department. Barring the constant battle to protect history there are lots of small pickets of history served to the readers and get to see spotlight on one of the most talked about civilizations. Capitalization on certain curious elements does falters but it doesn't fades without a fight. It's a fresh experience to be in the midst of action and the past with Fargo's at helm. A cocktail served well but with a bitter-sweet experience.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
Husband and wife team Sam and Remi Fargo are in Mexico, when they come upon an astonishing discovery-the skeleton of a man clutching an ancient sealed pot and within the pot, a Mayan book, larger than anyone has ever seen.
The book contains astonishing information about the Mayans, their cities and about mankind itself. The secrets are so powerful that some would do anything to possess them-as the Fargo's are about to find out. Before their adventure is done, many people will die for that book-and Sam and Remi may just be among them.
First look at the title and the cover and readers can easily guess the genre. The word adventure is pretty much evident on the cover. The title itself pointing it towards history and adventure mixed together in one. The blurb talks about the favourite character of the series and their latest adventures in the Mayan land. The blurb pretty much is successful in concealing a lot of surprises in store for the readers.
The story starts off from Mexico where a volcano has hit and Sam & Remi Fargo out of humanity reach a small town to help people out. But when they stumble across a corpse holding a secret buried in the womb of the volcano things change pretty quickly around them. They find themselves on the move as a wealthy woman Sarah Allersby is on their tail to capture what she thinks deserves a rightful place in her house. But Sam & Remi Fargo will try to protect history and it's secrets till their last breath. So it's a race against time to uncover the Mayans and their legacy and prevent it from falling in the wrong hands. That's what the story is all about.
There are a lot of elements which make this book a pleasure to read. It takes off like a plane, steady and turbulent once in air and then gradually gains momentum. It promises action, adventure and history and delivers upon it during the entire sequence of events. The action slick and engaging all throughout. The farthest corners of the world and the riches of a lost civilization unfurled in a serene manner in front of the readers eyes. There is curiosity as what next is going to happen in the book which helps it in sustaining the prying eyes of voracious readers.
The book falters relatively in the second half where it becomes more of adventure than a discovery. The sore part that it gives up unceremoniously on the cards which are held close to the chest and becomes fairly predictable. History left out in the backdrop and action taking a lot of time. Many other unwanted incidents and mafia angle making it a dragged book. The promise to hold on to a perfect delivery fades as it inches towards the end. The antagonist not that scary in demeanour as one would have expected.
All in all the book manages to combine history and adventure and scores full marks in that department. Barring the constant battle to protect history there are lots of small pickets of history served to the readers and get to see spotlight on one of the most talked about civilizations. Capitalization on certain curious elements does falters but it doesn't fades without a fight. It's a fresh experience to be in the midst of action and the past with Fargo's at helm. A cocktail served well but with a bitter-sweet experience.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
July 31, 2014
Review: Private Down Under by James Patterson & Michael White (Private, #7)
Some writers have lived their entire life churning out books out of blood,gore and suspense. The notable works of them still occupy our minds and leaves an ever lasting impression about their efforts and spirit of keeping the art alive. Author James Patterson & Michael White bond together under the Private series with a new location "Private Down Under" to make people dance to their tunes. So will this new book in the series work it's charm? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and it oozes class and suspense. The skyscrapers of Australia a woman and a man and the overall glare effect adds to the imposing effect of the book. The blurb talks about Private's latest developments in Sydney and once again how they are engaged in deadly situations. The blurb manages to conceal it all and let the readers decipher the entire mystery of the book.
The story starts off in Sydney where Private has set up a new office under Chris Gisto. Along with his team they are embroiled in a problem when a body ends up on their doorstep. After that a series of murder occur in eastern Suburbs and a rising star approaches them for help for his probable murder and a Chinese ex-cop also lands up at their doorstep it all becomes complicated. So will Private be able to live up to their reputation and wade off all the cases? Are all the cases connected to each other? Will their be calm or will their be bloodshed towards the end? That's what the story is all about.
The furious pace is the first noticeable element of the story. The parallel plots another aspect of the entire book. The gore and the bloodshed adding to the mystery and creating an overall eerie in the minds. The ruthless encounters, the tacts, the joint operations, the nosy yet dangerous ventures giving the book much more leverage. The mixture of kidnap, murder and betrayal working in tandem all the time and giving the readers a lot to savour. Private as a team has been given enough space and works overtime in the book with their fancy gadgets and minds.
The downside of the book is when few of the plot fell short of expectations. Some finishing awkwardly and not providing enough spark and charm to the entire idea. The local dialect of Australia missing except for the scenery. The predictability bit high and towards the end the story falling short of weaving magic in the minds of the readers. Gisto's importance was found more wanting in the book. Other Private members overshadowed Gisto completely which doesn't makes a strong case for the protagonist.
All in all the book does manages to pull off some inexplicable ideas out of the bag. But the shine fizzles out completely and that doesn't helps the cause. The story has it's ups and downs and could have been dealt with much more severity. The grip loosing at times. But the idea of making people go through a series of maze works and makes momentous leaps before coming to a stop. A bold and a clever book.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
With the best detectives in the business, cutting edge technology and offices around the globe, there is no investigation agency quite like Private.
Now, at a glittering launch party overlooking the iconic Opera House, Private throws open its doors . . .
Craig Gisto and his newly formed team have barely raised their glasses, however, when a young Asian man, blood-soaked and bullet-ridden, staggers into the party, and what looks like a botched kidnapping turns out to be a whole lot more.
Within days the agency's case load is full: from a missing businessman whose latest scheme was a step too far; to a rock star terrified hes next in line for the infamous Club 27.
But it is a horrific murder in the wealthy Eastern Suburbs and the desperate search for a motive that stretches the team to the limit. Stacy Friel, friend of the Deputy Commissioner of NSW Police, isn't the killers first victim and as the bodies mount up she's clearly not the last
First look at the title and the cover and it oozes class and suspense. The skyscrapers of Australia a woman and a man and the overall glare effect adds to the imposing effect of the book. The blurb talks about Private's latest developments in Sydney and once again how they are engaged in deadly situations. The blurb manages to conceal it all and let the readers decipher the entire mystery of the book.
The story starts off in Sydney where Private has set up a new office under Chris Gisto. Along with his team they are embroiled in a problem when a body ends up on their doorstep. After that a series of murder occur in eastern Suburbs and a rising star approaches them for help for his probable murder and a Chinese ex-cop also lands up at their doorstep it all becomes complicated. So will Private be able to live up to their reputation and wade off all the cases? Are all the cases connected to each other? Will their be calm or will their be bloodshed towards the end? That's what the story is all about.
The furious pace is the first noticeable element of the story. The parallel plots another aspect of the entire book. The gore and the bloodshed adding to the mystery and creating an overall eerie in the minds. The ruthless encounters, the tacts, the joint operations, the nosy yet dangerous ventures giving the book much more leverage. The mixture of kidnap, murder and betrayal working in tandem all the time and giving the readers a lot to savour. Private as a team has been given enough space and works overtime in the book with their fancy gadgets and minds.
The downside of the book is when few of the plot fell short of expectations. Some finishing awkwardly and not providing enough spark and charm to the entire idea. The local dialect of Australia missing except for the scenery. The predictability bit high and towards the end the story falling short of weaving magic in the minds of the readers. Gisto's importance was found more wanting in the book. Other Private members overshadowed Gisto completely which doesn't makes a strong case for the protagonist.
All in all the book does manages to pull off some inexplicable ideas out of the bag. But the shine fizzles out completely and that doesn't helps the cause. The story has it's ups and downs and could have been dealt with much more severity. The grip loosing at times. But the idea of making people go through a series of maze works and makes momentous leaps before coming to a stop. A bold and a clever book.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
.
July 26, 2014
Review: The Unwanted Shadow by Bhaskaryya Deka
Thrillers are the bread and butter for many writers nowadays. Not to forget the twisted ideas which have come forward in the form of the book. Some exciting and some monotonous. Author Bhaskaryya Deka in his book "The Unwanted Shadow" has tried to imbibe some crucial elements of thrill and mystery and deliver the goods. So does it work? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and one can co-relate it to be a shadowy mystery thriller. But appearances sometimes are mistaken and so is the case with this book. The cover image is quite pale though it wants to create an eerie atmosphere it fails to do so. The blurb talks about a man and how his life takes a u-turn when he ends up on the wrong side. The blurb asks staunch questions and keeps the guessing mode on.
The story starts off from a village where Mohan lives along with his family. But when he opts out to move out of the house for his dreams and ambitions his father stands tall between him and his life. He pays no heed as life suddenly leaps out of his hands and gives him setbacks which take time to heal. Once he moves out unceremonious things await him in Delhi where he learns the tricks of the trade. So will Mohan ever be able to come out of the reverie? What's in store for him in the fast paced city life? Is it love or something which works overtime to make the going tougher? A lot of questions to which the answers are present in the story.
The story is a casual affair with a laid back narration. It works fine and the sudden momentum it gains takes the story forward. The change in the tone and tempo maintains the sanctity of the entire idea. The turning point being the striking aspect. It gives a scope to the entire narration through it's change of tracks. The language simple and narration on a much simpler path.
The downside of the story is it's first half which fails to ignite interest. The laid back narration in the second half and abrupt introduction of certain events without any relevant reference to the past gives it an out of the blue feeling. The build up taking a long time and vivid details which could have captured the entire essence more beautifully.
All in all the story casually nudges along and puzzles with sudden changes. The casualness suited for sometime and later on changing gears. Few ideas have been implemented with goodness and gore but not with panache and command. The concept could have been dealt with more seriousness and strong vocabulary. A story with reluctance and good coverage to the mystery and few thrills to catch readers off guard.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
Mohan, a small town boy, is nothing but hopeful when he moves to Delhi to complete his education. After all, this is what he had always planned to do, to take a leap towards his big dreams. And for once he finds his new life to be absolutely lovely, like he has often pictured it would be.
But this good phase doesn’t last long. His life is soon shattered to pieces when his first relationship meets a tragic end. A sadness like he had never known before overwhelms him, keeping him wide awake at nights. But it is just the beginning, beginning to a terrible chain of events that would lead him to a deadly confrontation with his own dark past.
Will Mohan be able to overcome this darkness? Will he ever get solace? Or will his innocence be lost in the intense colour of blood?
First look at the title and the cover and one can co-relate it to be a shadowy mystery thriller. But appearances sometimes are mistaken and so is the case with this book. The cover image is quite pale though it wants to create an eerie atmosphere it fails to do so. The blurb talks about a man and how his life takes a u-turn when he ends up on the wrong side. The blurb asks staunch questions and keeps the guessing mode on.
The story starts off from a village where Mohan lives along with his family. But when he opts out to move out of the house for his dreams and ambitions his father stands tall between him and his life. He pays no heed as life suddenly leaps out of his hands and gives him setbacks which take time to heal. Once he moves out unceremonious things await him in Delhi where he learns the tricks of the trade. So will Mohan ever be able to come out of the reverie? What's in store for him in the fast paced city life? Is it love or something which works overtime to make the going tougher? A lot of questions to which the answers are present in the story.
The story is a casual affair with a laid back narration. It works fine and the sudden momentum it gains takes the story forward. The change in the tone and tempo maintains the sanctity of the entire idea. The turning point being the striking aspect. It gives a scope to the entire narration through it's change of tracks. The language simple and narration on a much simpler path.
The downside of the story is it's first half which fails to ignite interest. The laid back narration in the second half and abrupt introduction of certain events without any relevant reference to the past gives it an out of the blue feeling. The build up taking a long time and vivid details which could have captured the entire essence more beautifully.
All in all the story casually nudges along and puzzles with sudden changes. The casualness suited for sometime and later on changing gears. Few ideas have been implemented with goodness and gore but not with panache and command. The concept could have been dealt with more seriousness and strong vocabulary. A story with reluctance and good coverage to the mystery and few thrills to catch readers off guard.
RATINGS:
3 OUT OF 5
July 23, 2014
Review: Private India by Ashwin Sanghi & James Patterson (Private, #8)
Crime thriller is a genre which has a spike in demand among readers nowadays. Even authors try to give their best while creating a story out of nothing. Author Ashwin Sanghi & James Patterson have collaborated to create the collateral effect of a book under Private series called "Private India" So has their collaboration clicked? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and one can easily figure out that the book has thriller written all over it. But the catch is change in the setup which brings the Private series to our very own tinsel town Mumbai. The cover image giving the befitting start to the story. The blurb talks about an organization, a series of murders and an ex agent who now is at the helm of cracking one of the most eluding cases of all times. The blurb has been painstakingly kept short for the readers to pick up and go through the entire story.
The story has been setup in Mumbai where a series of murders across the city brings together the Police and Private India an organization which specialises in solving the improbable. Santosh Wagh the head of the Indian unit is bit ruffled when the entire drama doesn't stops and gradually gains momentum leaving him and his team clueless. But there are more sinister things happening under his nose and it's upto him and Private India to keep their personal lives aside and step up the gas to catch the mastermind behind these planned murders. So will Santosh Wagh and Private India succeed? Will this be a smooth ride or there are obstacles which will jolt them out of their comfort zone? Or is there a twist in the already gruelling tale? Join hands with Santosh Wagh on a not so private journey of him and his organization Private India termed "the best in the world".
The book has it all which one expects to be there at the time of unfolding the plot and the vice like grip in which the readers succumb along with the story. The precious elements of mystery, furious pace, the highs and lows, a strong leading protagonist and an ever alluring antagonist sets the tongues wagging by the end. The book managing to run the entire drama in a the most vivid and gory fashion. The slips ups are none and it sets the heart thumping once the entire sequence of events unfold in front of the eyes. Santosh Wagh and his organization Private India have been given enough leverage and make them toil hard for the entire book.
The story has no downside whatsoever.
All in all if you want to dance to the tunes of a crime thriller this is the one for you. There's hardly any breathing space as the element of surprise will catch many off guard one after the another. It's like a thunderbolt it hits hard and hard enough and then disappears with the blink of an eye. For all the choicest of locations, the numerous disjointed dots and multiple problems for the people to handle there's fun, excitement and above all there's snappy rhythm to it which will not let you keep down the book. Surrender your soul and you'll find solace once the book gets a befitting end. High octane performer under tough conditions.
RATINGS:
5 OUT OF 5
When a series of seemingly unconnected murders rock the city of Mumbai with the macabre rituals and artefacts found around the corpses, Private India, a leading investigation agency takes the case. Santosh Wagh, the head of the organization, has only one mission. He needs to stop the killers before they strike again. However, in a city of over 13 million people, he finds that the clock is ticking too fast. He finds himself pitted against underworld dons and a Godman who isn't what he seems. However, the worst is yet to come and Private India itself may be threatened with a revelation that could destroy the entire organization.
First look at the title and the cover and one can easily figure out that the book has thriller written all over it. But the catch is change in the setup which brings the Private series to our very own tinsel town Mumbai. The cover image giving the befitting start to the story. The blurb talks about an organization, a series of murders and an ex agent who now is at the helm of cracking one of the most eluding cases of all times. The blurb has been painstakingly kept short for the readers to pick up and go through the entire story.
The story has been setup in Mumbai where a series of murders across the city brings together the Police and Private India an organization which specialises in solving the improbable. Santosh Wagh the head of the Indian unit is bit ruffled when the entire drama doesn't stops and gradually gains momentum leaving him and his team clueless. But there are more sinister things happening under his nose and it's upto him and Private India to keep their personal lives aside and step up the gas to catch the mastermind behind these planned murders. So will Santosh Wagh and Private India succeed? Will this be a smooth ride or there are obstacles which will jolt them out of their comfort zone? Or is there a twist in the already gruelling tale? Join hands with Santosh Wagh on a not so private journey of him and his organization Private India termed "the best in the world".
The book has it all which one expects to be there at the time of unfolding the plot and the vice like grip in which the readers succumb along with the story. The precious elements of mystery, furious pace, the highs and lows, a strong leading protagonist and an ever alluring antagonist sets the tongues wagging by the end. The book managing to run the entire drama in a the most vivid and gory fashion. The slips ups are none and it sets the heart thumping once the entire sequence of events unfold in front of the eyes. Santosh Wagh and his organization Private India have been given enough leverage and make them toil hard for the entire book.
The story has no downside whatsoever.
All in all if you want to dance to the tunes of a crime thriller this is the one for you. There's hardly any breathing space as the element of surprise will catch many off guard one after the another. It's like a thunderbolt it hits hard and hard enough and then disappears with the blink of an eye. For all the choicest of locations, the numerous disjointed dots and multiple problems for the people to handle there's fun, excitement and above all there's snappy rhythm to it which will not let you keep down the book. Surrender your soul and you'll find solace once the book gets a befitting end. High octane performer under tough conditions.
RATINGS:
5 OUT OF 5
July 21, 2014
Review: Crumpled Voices by Ila Garg & Pulkit Gupta
There are sufferings and then there are lot of sufferings for humans on earth. Some come naturally while some of them are man made. Women have always been an object of desire and scrutiny for many. The oppression continuing and seeping it's way through generations. Author Pulkit Gupta & Ila Garg in their latest offering "Crumpled Voices" have lent out a medium to common people and give the readers something that has not been dealt with for a long time. So is their effort up to the expectations? Let's find out.
First look at the title and the cover and it shouts and shouts out loud about the issues the book might take up during it's entire course of narration. There is a deep pain hidden inside the title and the image is a symbol of it. The blurb talks about what is on offer in the book and the editors conceal the very idea on which the whole project works. The blurb is pinpoint accurate with not much to decipher and leaving it for the readers to uncover themselves.
Poem No. 1:
A beautiful poem indeed describing at length the state of affairs of earth, the joys and the sorrows, the transition of the man from human to beast, the pain and the sufferings and the worst and the best which the living soul had reaped and sowed till now. It's a vivid amalgamation of verses with a lot of depth and intensity.
Story No. 2:
A story about two people and their respective choices which are not respected at all by the society and the fears with which they live in. It's a story with a lot of focus on what happens in real to those who try changing the rules of the society. It's a good story with love and homosexuality being given appropriate space. The story could have been given a lot more edge. It became too straight forward towards the end.
Story No. 3:
A story about misunderstandings and misconceptions and the choices that change the course of the future. The story is a heart felt narrative about two people and the course it traverses leaves the readers amidst mixed emotions. A fruitful and sad story with pent up feelings and curses and cries of few souls.
Story No. 4:
A story highlighting the society's mindset and the misleading faces of man which ultimately wrecks havoc in not one but many lives. The story delves into the devil reincarnate forms of man and his beastly endeavours. The narration is smooth, the sufferings true and the end painful. A soulful story.
Story No. 5:
The mind sometimes reacts violently to a situation and considers nothing. Even the ties and bonds are marked broken with one mistake. The story revolves around honour killing where a girl struggles for life and unexpectedly or expectedly the savagery comes from her very own. It's painful, it's brutal, it's gory but in the end it's all in the name of honour. The story is perfect with brief but hitting verses.
Story No. 6:
The story is a curious case of missing people and how one person changes it all for everyone around him. The story indeed is based on a unique idea and a concept and takes a spiritual as well as a historical journey, even humouring the entire idea at times. The story is fresh from the shelf and has been delivered with ease and confidence.
Story No. 7:
When a woman decides to break the shackles and run amok the entire world around her then it's the bright change which dawns upon. The story is based on this one bright yet cruelly and subdued change and the courage of a woman. The story runs it's course fine and sums up with a good message.
Story No. 8:
For once a cry and howl gets a voice and in turn it leads to the uprising or the sad demise of your opinions or freedom. The story is of the sufferings of a woman in her marital life and the endless beatings and taunts which leave her scarred forever. The story highlights the shortcomings of marriages in our country and it manages to give leverage to the dead relationships which are run in the name of societal pressure and mercy. A nice story.
Story No. 9:
Honesty is the best policy and your little honest gestures sometimes leaves you with content and satisfaction. That is what the story conveys through it's narration. The story's narration is average and it offers nothing new in terms of concept and ideas.
Story No. 10:
The story is of ambitions and riches, the ways of success and the ways to achieve it. The story doesn't pulls up an effective momentum and fades with every paragraph. The end quite predictable and the events very random and vague. It doesn't gives quite the jitters and shivers which should have been associated with it.
Story No. 11:
Strange is love and it's ways. It can make you look completely lost or in control of your senses many a times. The story is of one such couple with an even strange story. The story is quite new contrary to the ideas of love and romance. The story is filled with remorse, strangeness and some invisible hiccups which makes you cringe to read more.
Story No. 12:
What goes around comes back around. What happens when a sin from the past comes back to haunt you and torment you forever. The story with guts,gore and inhumanity. The straightforward and bluntness of the story makes it a cruel yet an eye opening aspect. There's a lot of flair in it to give it the touch it required. The best story of the lot.
Poem No. 13:
A poem on the present conditions of our country and the dilapidated state which sadly makes it all the more unruly to live and survive. The poem could have been woven in a better manner and words like fucking and bullshit could have been given a miss completely.
Story No. 14:
The story of two people and their horrifying experiences and later on turning them into forte. The story has a start stop kind of presentation which works fine for sometime but gradually it feels incomplete and rather finishes abruptly with not much to cherish or cheer about. The story is devoid of plausible explanations and the the momentum not in it's favour.
Story No. 15:
A young girl and her instincts to learn and grasp new and definitive things about life lead her to believe in the smallest and possible joys of the world. The story has been written well keeping the innocence factor of a child in mind. The grammar stutters quite a lot of times but the story remains good and ends on a positive note.
Story No. 16:
When life has been cruel to you for a very long time then suddenly the ray of hope appears out of nowhere and gives you a thread to cling on and stay put and face the world. The story has been given a glimmer of hope, a touch of love and new found surprises and the bond which never falters come what may. The story has come of age and given the word relationship a new meaning and direction. A very good story.
Story No. 17:
For their are wolves everywhere in human forms and their prying eyes hunting for preys and waiting for that one moment where they can snatch away your dignity and respect but what if you have chosen something else for yourself. The story runs on the lines of dignity and the trust which is is so sacred yet scarred that even it's difficult to fathom the repercussions. The story starts and end on a high and devours on the cannibalistic attitude of man and it's desires. The surprises making it readable and befitting. A very good clash of love and lust.
Story No. 18:
The story is about day to day nuisances which women generally have to face on roads, next doors, lanes, malls etc. The show never stops for the men but for women it becomes an ordeal. The story lends a good voice to the women power and gives them a direction as how to tackle with the leeches of the society. Giving up is never an option for women and it must be the same in reality too is the message conveyed loud and clear. A good story.
Story No. 19:
The story of a woman who undertook a journey where she is all alone and some restrictions are forced upon her to make her life more miserable. The story is to break the shackles and do what your mind and heart agree to. The story is fresh and gives a lot of leverage to freedom and voicing of thoughts. The end was bit abrupt but overall the story manages to charm the readers.
Story No. 20:
A story about a little girls and her hidden feelings and the doubts on her ability due to lack of appreciation and the touch of her own which is found amiss in the whole set up. The story points out at the very fact that life has become too pacy and people gradually tend to forget to tend to their own kids and loved ones. The story is simple yet touching and helps venting out the inner frustrations of a brilliant yet emotion and care deprived child.
Story No. 21:
It's the story of a grief stricken lady and a young girl and the visible generation gap and the stark differences in thoughts apparent throughout their conversation. The story runs its course smoothly and gives ample leads to a lot of cruel truths about the society and the people. The story touches the topics with ease and shows the right path to a young child with care and tenderness. A nice story.
Story No. 22:
The story is of a woman and a daughter who are out on a mission to fight off the unnecessary evil that has spread in the society and hush up the gossip mongers once and for all. The story is about determination and the inner strength which guides you towards righteousness. For one person standing tall others will come out of the closet and make it a voice to be heard. The story is unique and with grave intensity. A lovely narrative.
Poem No. 23:
A poem on the acid attacks on women and the trauma some of them have to undergo afterwards. The poem simple yet pleading with innocence and tenderness to leave the women folk and give their ideas and freedom and their body a breathing space. The suffocation and constant fear being highlighted. The poem ending the book on a high with expectations and experiences shared through this medium.
The book contains 20 stories and 3 poems, all of them trying to put a point across to the readers. Some touching, few of them gory, some shivering and forgettable experiences and a common factor women. The targeted and a misconception of "weak" being busted through some of the narratives. The stories rendering a voice to the voiceless and giving a platform to the women who have suffered and suffered hard. An eye opener for many and an opinion changing experience. The magic in some of the stories binds you with disgust and anguish yet your soul reaching out to the plight of both the rich and the poor. The stories which leave a shining mark on the mind are story no. 3,5,6,12,16 and 17.
The downside is the editing part at few places with grammatical mistakes hampering the growth of few stories at times. It's not severe but sensitive books like these need more accuracy. The poems are good but could have been given a better space or given equal weightage in the book in terms of quantity. Few stories lacked the flair and the ideal perception to take the social cause forward.
All in all the book manages to pull out all stops and deliver powerful societal messages with ease and simplest of manners. The deft touch giving the book lots of hopes and pride. The stories chugging out reality from the deepest and the darkest of the corners. The filth being cleaned up in the form of words. The editors being selective and nearly accurate with their choices of stories. A neat compilation of shades of suffering. The book could have done a lot more by giving some more hard hitting issues "space" but nonetheless it still churns out quite a lot in contrast to what readers usually read. A book to be sailed along with and pondered upon with it's idealistic approach.
RATINGS:
4 OUT OF 5
Crumpled Voices – Shades of Suffering is an anthology based on social issues. A common thread of the prevailing societal evils and injustice binds them together. We have tried to weave stories ranging from rape to acid attack and domestic violence to honor killing in this anthology. All of us have witnessed such incidents in our day to day life, our near and dear ones might have experienced them closely too. We have almost grown up among them, felt them following us. We constantly live in fear of the unknown, fear of being the victim to any of the criminal activities multiplying around us. These days when no place is safe, including the web, our voices need to be heard. Protest must begin from somewhere, and we have used our pen which is mightier than the sword to express our anguish. An echo of many unimaginable atrocities lurks within us, engulfing us in its shadow. Through each of the story in this book, we have tried to highlight one such aspect of horrifying crimes.
First look at the title and the cover and it shouts and shouts out loud about the issues the book might take up during it's entire course of narration. There is a deep pain hidden inside the title and the image is a symbol of it. The blurb talks about what is on offer in the book and the editors conceal the very idea on which the whole project works. The blurb is pinpoint accurate with not much to decipher and leaving it for the readers to uncover themselves.
Poem No. 1:
A beautiful poem indeed describing at length the state of affairs of earth, the joys and the sorrows, the transition of the man from human to beast, the pain and the sufferings and the worst and the best which the living soul had reaped and sowed till now. It's a vivid amalgamation of verses with a lot of depth and intensity.
Story No. 2:
A story about two people and their respective choices which are not respected at all by the society and the fears with which they live in. It's a story with a lot of focus on what happens in real to those who try changing the rules of the society. It's a good story with love and homosexuality being given appropriate space. The story could have been given a lot more edge. It became too straight forward towards the end.
Story No. 3:
A story about misunderstandings and misconceptions and the choices that change the course of the future. The story is a heart felt narrative about two people and the course it traverses leaves the readers amidst mixed emotions. A fruitful and sad story with pent up feelings and curses and cries of few souls.
Story No. 4:
A story highlighting the society's mindset and the misleading faces of man which ultimately wrecks havoc in not one but many lives. The story delves into the devil reincarnate forms of man and his beastly endeavours. The narration is smooth, the sufferings true and the end painful. A soulful story.
Story No. 5:
The mind sometimes reacts violently to a situation and considers nothing. Even the ties and bonds are marked broken with one mistake. The story revolves around honour killing where a girl struggles for life and unexpectedly or expectedly the savagery comes from her very own. It's painful, it's brutal, it's gory but in the end it's all in the name of honour. The story is perfect with brief but hitting verses.
Story No. 6:
The story is a curious case of missing people and how one person changes it all for everyone around him. The story indeed is based on a unique idea and a concept and takes a spiritual as well as a historical journey, even humouring the entire idea at times. The story is fresh from the shelf and has been delivered with ease and confidence.
Story No. 7:
When a woman decides to break the shackles and run amok the entire world around her then it's the bright change which dawns upon. The story is based on this one bright yet cruelly and subdued change and the courage of a woman. The story runs it's course fine and sums up with a good message.
Story No. 8:
For once a cry and howl gets a voice and in turn it leads to the uprising or the sad demise of your opinions or freedom. The story is of the sufferings of a woman in her marital life and the endless beatings and taunts which leave her scarred forever. The story highlights the shortcomings of marriages in our country and it manages to give leverage to the dead relationships which are run in the name of societal pressure and mercy. A nice story.
Story No. 9:
Honesty is the best policy and your little honest gestures sometimes leaves you with content and satisfaction. That is what the story conveys through it's narration. The story's narration is average and it offers nothing new in terms of concept and ideas.
Story No. 10:
The story is of ambitions and riches, the ways of success and the ways to achieve it. The story doesn't pulls up an effective momentum and fades with every paragraph. The end quite predictable and the events very random and vague. It doesn't gives quite the jitters and shivers which should have been associated with it.
Story No. 11:
Strange is love and it's ways. It can make you look completely lost or in control of your senses many a times. The story is of one such couple with an even strange story. The story is quite new contrary to the ideas of love and romance. The story is filled with remorse, strangeness and some invisible hiccups which makes you cringe to read more.
Story No. 12:
What goes around comes back around. What happens when a sin from the past comes back to haunt you and torment you forever. The story with guts,gore and inhumanity. The straightforward and bluntness of the story makes it a cruel yet an eye opening aspect. There's a lot of flair in it to give it the touch it required. The best story of the lot.
Poem No. 13:
A poem on the present conditions of our country and the dilapidated state which sadly makes it all the more unruly to live and survive. The poem could have been woven in a better manner and words like fucking and bullshit could have been given a miss completely.
Story No. 14:
The story of two people and their horrifying experiences and later on turning them into forte. The story has a start stop kind of presentation which works fine for sometime but gradually it feels incomplete and rather finishes abruptly with not much to cherish or cheer about. The story is devoid of plausible explanations and the the momentum not in it's favour.
Story No. 15:
A young girl and her instincts to learn and grasp new and definitive things about life lead her to believe in the smallest and possible joys of the world. The story has been written well keeping the innocence factor of a child in mind. The grammar stutters quite a lot of times but the story remains good and ends on a positive note.
Story No. 16:
When life has been cruel to you for a very long time then suddenly the ray of hope appears out of nowhere and gives you a thread to cling on and stay put and face the world. The story has been given a glimmer of hope, a touch of love and new found surprises and the bond which never falters come what may. The story has come of age and given the word relationship a new meaning and direction. A very good story.
Story No. 17:
For their are wolves everywhere in human forms and their prying eyes hunting for preys and waiting for that one moment where they can snatch away your dignity and respect but what if you have chosen something else for yourself. The story runs on the lines of dignity and the trust which is is so sacred yet scarred that even it's difficult to fathom the repercussions. The story starts and end on a high and devours on the cannibalistic attitude of man and it's desires. The surprises making it readable and befitting. A very good clash of love and lust.
Story No. 18:
The story is about day to day nuisances which women generally have to face on roads, next doors, lanes, malls etc. The show never stops for the men but for women it becomes an ordeal. The story lends a good voice to the women power and gives them a direction as how to tackle with the leeches of the society. Giving up is never an option for women and it must be the same in reality too is the message conveyed loud and clear. A good story.
Story No. 19:
The story of a woman who undertook a journey where she is all alone and some restrictions are forced upon her to make her life more miserable. The story is to break the shackles and do what your mind and heart agree to. The story is fresh and gives a lot of leverage to freedom and voicing of thoughts. The end was bit abrupt but overall the story manages to charm the readers.
Story No. 20:
A story about a little girls and her hidden feelings and the doubts on her ability due to lack of appreciation and the touch of her own which is found amiss in the whole set up. The story points out at the very fact that life has become too pacy and people gradually tend to forget to tend to their own kids and loved ones. The story is simple yet touching and helps venting out the inner frustrations of a brilliant yet emotion and care deprived child.
Story No. 21:
It's the story of a grief stricken lady and a young girl and the visible generation gap and the stark differences in thoughts apparent throughout their conversation. The story runs its course smoothly and gives ample leads to a lot of cruel truths about the society and the people. The story touches the topics with ease and shows the right path to a young child with care and tenderness. A nice story.
Story No. 22:
The story is of a woman and a daughter who are out on a mission to fight off the unnecessary evil that has spread in the society and hush up the gossip mongers once and for all. The story is about determination and the inner strength which guides you towards righteousness. For one person standing tall others will come out of the closet and make it a voice to be heard. The story is unique and with grave intensity. A lovely narrative.
Poem No. 23:
A poem on the acid attacks on women and the trauma some of them have to undergo afterwards. The poem simple yet pleading with innocence and tenderness to leave the women folk and give their ideas and freedom and their body a breathing space. The suffocation and constant fear being highlighted. The poem ending the book on a high with expectations and experiences shared through this medium.
The book contains 20 stories and 3 poems, all of them trying to put a point across to the readers. Some touching, few of them gory, some shivering and forgettable experiences and a common factor women. The targeted and a misconception of "weak" being busted through some of the narratives. The stories rendering a voice to the voiceless and giving a platform to the women who have suffered and suffered hard. An eye opener for many and an opinion changing experience. The magic in some of the stories binds you with disgust and anguish yet your soul reaching out to the plight of both the rich and the poor. The stories which leave a shining mark on the mind are story no. 3,5,6,12,16 and 17.
The downside is the editing part at few places with grammatical mistakes hampering the growth of few stories at times. It's not severe but sensitive books like these need more accuracy. The poems are good but could have been given a better space or given equal weightage in the book in terms of quantity. Few stories lacked the flair and the ideal perception to take the social cause forward.
All in all the book manages to pull out all stops and deliver powerful societal messages with ease and simplest of manners. The deft touch giving the book lots of hopes and pride. The stories chugging out reality from the deepest and the darkest of the corners. The filth being cleaned up in the form of words. The editors being selective and nearly accurate with their choices of stories. A neat compilation of shades of suffering. The book could have done a lot more by giving some more hard hitting issues "space" but nonetheless it still churns out quite a lot in contrast to what readers usually read. A book to be sailed along with and pondered upon with it's idealistic approach.
RATINGS:
4 OUT OF 5
