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Ringa Ringa Roses
Nitya, a single child ignored by her parents, makes an unlikely friend—a boy with a strange power who has mysteriously manifested in her room.
Nikhil creates a replacement for his dead mother—a clay doll that has her likeness. Things take a bizarre turn when his clay mother starts communicating with him.
Nihar, a teenage orphan, has walked a long way to seek shelter in an orphanage he has heard a lot about, unaware that it is the house of a terrifying secret.
These three stories, each with a young protagonist at the core of the tale, make up Ringa Ringa Roses. But these children aren’t meek. They challenge their bizarre situations as only people with great imagination and fortitude can and face their demons and monsters.
From the bizarre and inimitable mind of bestselling horror author Neil D’Silva, comes this collection of stories that weave horror with fantasy, suspense, and a touch of magic realism, and which promise to keep you awake till you finish reading the last page.
Nikhil creates a replacement for his dead mother—a clay doll that has her likeness. Things take a bizarre turn when his clay mother starts communicating with him.
Nihar, a teenage orphan, has walked a long way to seek shelter in an orphanage he has heard a lot about, unaware that it is the house of a terrifying secret.
These three stories, each with a young protagonist at the core of the tale, make up Ringa Ringa Roses. But these children aren’t meek. They challenge their bizarre situations as only people with great imagination and fortitude can and face their demons and monsters.
From the bizarre and inimitable mind of bestselling horror author Neil D’Silva, comes this collection of stories that weave horror with fantasy, suspense, and a touch of magic realism, and which promise to keep you awake till you finish reading the last page.
145 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2020
11 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Neil D'Silva
32 books173 followersWith 12 books to his credit, Neil D’Silva is a known name in the Indian literary world. His unique stories have struck a chord with a wide range of readers, eliciting praise from various quarters. He is published with leading publishers such as Penguin Random House, Rupa Publications, and Hachette among others, and has won screen adaptation deals on four of his books.
He has been named as one of the Top 7 Indian horror writers to be read by UK’s DESIblitz magazine. Considered as one of the forerunners of contemporary Indian horror literature, he has been covered by several leading publications and is invited to speak at prominent litfests around the country.
He was a winner at the Delhi Literature Festival Short Story Competition of 2015. His book Maya’s New Husband won the title of Entertainer of the Year at the Literary Awards 2015 that was co-hosted by Authors’ Ink Publications and Inside Stories.
He has been named as one of the Top 7 Indian horror writers to be read by UK’s DESIblitz magazine. Considered as one of the forerunners of contemporary Indian horror literature, he has been covered by several leading publications and is invited to speak at prominent litfests around the country.
He was a winner at the Delhi Literature Festival Short Story Competition of 2015. His book Maya’s New Husband won the title of Entertainer of the Year at the Literary Awards 2015 that was co-hosted by Authors’ Ink Publications and Inside Stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 28, 2021
4.5 stars.
One big advantage of having the newspapers filled with horror stories daily is that fictional horror doesn't seem scary anymore. Of course, I'm still a newbie in this genre, so I don't expect to pick up a full-fledged horror novel anytime in the next decade. But anthologies are something I can manage. And well-written anthologies are always a pleasure to read. Ringa Ringa Roses is one such book.
There are three stories in this tiny powerhouse, and all three have children as protagonists.
We have Nithya, who has moved into a new house with her parents, only to find a strange boy with stranger powers already residing in her room. Soon she realises that this boy can create... 🤫🤫🤫🤫
Then there's Nikhil, who is extremely close to his mother and is devastated by her death. He ends up making a clay mother as a substitute, and then... 🤫🤫🤫🤫
And finally, there's Nihar, an orphan who finds refuge in Miss Charlotte's home for abandoned children. But his heart isn't at peace because he has heard that the house contains a ... 🤫🤫🤫🤫
(All the child protagonists' names start with N. I wonder why, NEIL. 😁)
This is a pretty quick book, and didn't take me even a couple of hours for its 127 pages. This is mainly because of Neil D'Silva's writing. (And partly because I don't drag out horror. The faster it's over, the faster I can breathe easy!) D'Silva keeps a firm grip on the plot and doesn't meander on his way to the ending. No subplots, no sidetracks, no red herrings. The story focuses on its main thread from start to end. And this gives you a firm sense of inquisitiveness as you keep moving on to know what happens in the climax.
I enjoyed all three stories. (Though I was a little disappointed that I could guess the twist in the third story long before it came into being. But this shouldn't take away from the story experience. It's the best of the three.) Each of the stories takes place in a distinct setting, each has a different kind of horror, and each is resolved by the end but doesn't exactly answer all your questions. I loved how the author combined traditional horror with a bit of suspense, magical realism and fantasy. This entire range of factors made the book far from monotonous, as can happen sometimes with themed anthologies.
I would recommend this for all horror newbies such as myself. It's a good way of getting scared without being scarred. 😄 Horror aficionados can also go for this because the book does offer a thrilling experience if not a chilling one.
The book is free for KU subscribers. Also available as an audiobook on Audible.
Trigger Warnings: I won't give any, though there are a few. If you read horror, you ought to know what you are getting into. Horror can't be squeaky clean.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
One big advantage of having the newspapers filled with horror stories daily is that fictional horror doesn't seem scary anymore. Of course, I'm still a newbie in this genre, so I don't expect to pick up a full-fledged horror novel anytime in the next decade. But anthologies are something I can manage. And well-written anthologies are always a pleasure to read. Ringa Ringa Roses is one such book.
There are three stories in this tiny powerhouse, and all three have children as protagonists.
We have Nithya, who has moved into a new house with her parents, only to find a strange boy with stranger powers already residing in her room. Soon she realises that this boy can create... 🤫🤫🤫🤫
Then there's Nikhil, who is extremely close to his mother and is devastated by her death. He ends up making a clay mother as a substitute, and then... 🤫🤫🤫🤫
And finally, there's Nihar, an orphan who finds refuge in Miss Charlotte's home for abandoned children. But his heart isn't at peace because he has heard that the house contains a ... 🤫🤫🤫🤫
(All the child protagonists' names start with N. I wonder why, NEIL. 😁)
This is a pretty quick book, and didn't take me even a couple of hours for its 127 pages. This is mainly because of Neil D'Silva's writing. (And partly because I don't drag out horror. The faster it's over, the faster I can breathe easy!) D'Silva keeps a firm grip on the plot and doesn't meander on his way to the ending. No subplots, no sidetracks, no red herrings. The story focuses on its main thread from start to end. And this gives you a firm sense of inquisitiveness as you keep moving on to know what happens in the climax.
I enjoyed all three stories. (Though I was a little disappointed that I could guess the twist in the third story long before it came into being. But this shouldn't take away from the story experience. It's the best of the three.) Each of the stories takes place in a distinct setting, each has a different kind of horror, and each is resolved by the end but doesn't exactly answer all your questions. I loved how the author combined traditional horror with a bit of suspense, magical realism and fantasy. This entire range of factors made the book far from monotonous, as can happen sometimes with themed anthologies.
I would recommend this for all horror newbies such as myself. It's a good way of getting scared without being scarred. 😄 Horror aficionados can also go for this because the book does offer a thrilling experience if not a chilling one.
The book is free for KU subscribers. Also available as an audiobook on Audible.
Trigger Warnings: I won't give any, though there are a few. If you read horror, you ought to know what you are getting into. Horror can't be squeaky clean.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
July 30, 2022
For the record, cuz the author brought it up in the intro, my version was ring around the Rosie, pocket full of posies, ashes to ashes, we all fall down. Growing up, it was my understanding of the black plague. Similar of what the author discussed, only slightly different. I'm not sure why, but I really enjoyed these stories... Especially the first one, which is odd because ghost stuff doesn't usually bother me. For some reason, this one got me. The second story was also excellent, and gave me an idea that when I have a death in my family, maybe I'll replicate their likeness with clay lol
December 23, 2020
3.5/5
I finished this book sometime in October, but somehow I missed to review it. I am a fan of Neil D' Silva's Maya's New Husband, Yakshini, and Pishacha. I even call him as one of the prolific writers of India. However, I was surprised that this book didn't strike the same chord with me. If I have given it a 3.5 rating, it's only because of the third story - Two-tail. This story's narration was effectively gripping and I was really bowled over by the suspense which was carried throughout the story.
The first two stories - Children of the Walls and The Clay Mother fell flat, though I liked the former better than the latter. Horror lovers can give this book a read, though I wouldn't highly recommend it.
I finished this book sometime in October, but somehow I missed to review it. I am a fan of Neil D' Silva's Maya's New Husband, Yakshini, and Pishacha. I even call him as one of the prolific writers of India. However, I was surprised that this book didn't strike the same chord with me. If I have given it a 3.5 rating, it's only because of the third story - Two-tail. This story's narration was effectively gripping and I was really bowled over by the suspense which was carried throughout the story.
The first two stories - Children of the Walls and The Clay Mother fell flat, though I liked the former better than the latter. Horror lovers can give this book a read, though I wouldn't highly recommend it.
April 25, 2021
Ringa Ringa Roses by Neil D’Silva is a power-packed book of three terrifying short stories. It’s advisable not to read them at one go, and instead savour each one individually. One might never be able to look at a child’s innocent drawing on the wall the same way after reading the first short story, ‘Children of the Walls’. And the reader’s heart will ache for Nikhil of ‘The Clay Mother’ as they understand the harsh reality of life much before the protagonist does. And the last story of the book, ‘Two Tail’ is full of terrifying twists, yet it manages to tug at your heart with each turn of events. What a wonderful storyteller Neil is! Do give the book a read :-)
September 14, 2025
Some stories made me sad. Some were interesting! Not bad though.
July 29, 2021
Disclaimer this book will not let you sleep all night
Three stories which will make the hair on your neck stand like spines
Stories are short but not childish
Telling you dont go on the cover
Its more spooky than the cover
I loved this book.
Three stories which will make the hair on your neck stand like spines
Stories are short but not childish
Telling you dont go on the cover
Its more spooky than the cover
I loved this book.
April 10, 2021
Book title – Ringa ringa roses
Publisher – Amazon Pages – 127 Language - English
Author – Neil D’silva
Price - ₹ 0/- for the Kindle unlimited edition and ₹ 99/- for the kindle edition. This book is also available as an audiobook
Available on – Amazon.in
_______________________
As is suggestive on account of the title of the book, Ringa ringa roses, is a book with children as protagonists. But, it’s not just the name of the book that alliterates; it is also the names of the protagonists – Nitya, Nikhil, Nihar. I can only guess that the latter alliteration arises to mark the similarity with the author’s own name which is Neil.
The book is divided into 3 stories - Children of the Wall, The Clay Mother and Two-tail. All three stories focus on the child protagonist and his/her relationships with those around him/her. The stories are set in India. Whether it is Nitya’s desperate need to get her parents to acknowledge her, Nikhil’s lust for revenge born out of the loss of his mother or Nihar’s resolve to solve a mystery; all the stories carry a grain of truth in the message that they send across – children hurt if not loved or if the one they love is taken from them. And often, it is in such scenarios that a child’s fertile imagination conjures up a monster, a demon or a ghost. What is a ghost, after all, if not the product of a child’s fears projecting itself out of his mind?
The characterization in the book is strong, as strong as the strong-willed protagonists that Neil has created. His protagonists are not lily-livered children with over-active, fertile imaginations. They are decisive thinkers and planners. They carry the weight of the stories on their puny shoulders.
I believe that horror in India is a genre that has been done to death. There is no concept which has not been explored with writers often borrowing from rural myths or legends. Therefore, it was refreshing to read Neil’s take with its unique twists. That, backed by some strong and terse language, is the highlight of the book.
The gore element in the first story particularly is perhaps something that would titillate a teenager more (with their fertile powers of imagination) but, it did not do much for me in terms of atmosphere building. On the contrary, it made me cringe and I admit I skipped over the part. For me, the atmosphere was built quite effectively by Neil’s descriptions and also by the manner in which he chose to structure his sentences.
I recommend the book for all horror aficionados and also to parents whose teenaged kids want to read horror.
Publisher – Amazon Pages – 127 Language - English
Author – Neil D’silva
Price - ₹ 0/- for the Kindle unlimited edition and ₹ 99/- for the kindle edition. This book is also available as an audiobook
Available on – Amazon.in
_______________________
As is suggestive on account of the title of the book, Ringa ringa roses, is a book with children as protagonists. But, it’s not just the name of the book that alliterates; it is also the names of the protagonists – Nitya, Nikhil, Nihar. I can only guess that the latter alliteration arises to mark the similarity with the author’s own name which is Neil.
The book is divided into 3 stories - Children of the Wall, The Clay Mother and Two-tail. All three stories focus on the child protagonist and his/her relationships with those around him/her. The stories are set in India. Whether it is Nitya’s desperate need to get her parents to acknowledge her, Nikhil’s lust for revenge born out of the loss of his mother or Nihar’s resolve to solve a mystery; all the stories carry a grain of truth in the message that they send across – children hurt if not loved or if the one they love is taken from them. And often, it is in such scenarios that a child’s fertile imagination conjures up a monster, a demon or a ghost. What is a ghost, after all, if not the product of a child’s fears projecting itself out of his mind?
The characterization in the book is strong, as strong as the strong-willed protagonists that Neil has created. His protagonists are not lily-livered children with over-active, fertile imaginations. They are decisive thinkers and planners. They carry the weight of the stories on their puny shoulders.
I believe that horror in India is a genre that has been done to death. There is no concept which has not been explored with writers often borrowing from rural myths or legends. Therefore, it was refreshing to read Neil’s take with its unique twists. That, backed by some strong and terse language, is the highlight of the book.
The gore element in the first story particularly is perhaps something that would titillate a teenager more (with their fertile powers of imagination) but, it did not do much for me in terms of atmosphere building. On the contrary, it made me cringe and I admit I skipped over the part. For me, the atmosphere was built quite effectively by Neil’s descriptions and also by the manner in which he chose to structure his sentences.
I recommend the book for all horror aficionados and also to parents whose teenaged kids want to read horror.
November 18, 2020
If you are into reading short stories and a fan of horror genre,
above all you can’ t afford to wait too long to finish 200 pages or
above novel then Ringa Ringa Roses is a right book for you. The book
is a collection of three super amazing stories with exact punches of
horror to send shiver down your spine. Having already read previous
work from the author, I can 100 percent say he always set a benchmark
and create some extraordinary stories to make his readers read fresh
content. Ringa Ringa Roses matches and justifies a reader expectation.
Let’s just straight get into the stories. The first story, Children of
the Walls we follow Niyati and family who have recently shifted to a
new apartment. Like every horror story you have read or a movie you
have watched, we all know all houses are not ours alone, we got to
share them with others unknown faces or presence. The same happened
with these newly shifted family, as the time passes by things started
taking ugly turns but here’s the catch you will think ‘Yeah, I know
what’s gonna happen next’ and the story will take another turn and
will leave you horrified.
Second story, The Clay Mother, this one is my personally the most
favorite story of the book. We will come across a small boy, who love
spending time alone most of the time and only person in the house who
actually knows him or look after him, is his mother. But one
unfortunate day, she was taken away from him and now you readers will
think the spirit will come and haunt the family but you would not have
expected what comes next. This story was heartwarming and heck
horrifying. The story is a combination of insane young mind and
supernatural entity working together.
The last story of the book, Two-tail; trust me this was the most
terrifying story I have ever read about the monsters or creatures.
Little Paradise can be a happy home to many young orphans but
definitely not a place to be alive for longer days. The story revolves
around murders, greed and spooky tails. I was so thrilled to read this
story that I couldn’t manage to sleep one whole night. My eyes were
transfixed on the window out of fear (laughs). I absolutely fell for
this story, I am short of words to describe how much efforts author
would have put into this very particular story and presented us in the
most beautiful and scary way.
I am highly recommending this book to everyone and just like me you
will be stunned story after story. I would love to rate this book 5/5
stars.
above all you can’ t afford to wait too long to finish 200 pages or
above novel then Ringa Ringa Roses is a right book for you. The book
is a collection of three super amazing stories with exact punches of
horror to send shiver down your spine. Having already read previous
work from the author, I can 100 percent say he always set a benchmark
and create some extraordinary stories to make his readers read fresh
content. Ringa Ringa Roses matches and justifies a reader expectation.
Let’s just straight get into the stories. The first story, Children of
the Walls we follow Niyati and family who have recently shifted to a
new apartment. Like every horror story you have read or a movie you
have watched, we all know all houses are not ours alone, we got to
share them with others unknown faces or presence. The same happened
with these newly shifted family, as the time passes by things started
taking ugly turns but here’s the catch you will think ‘Yeah, I know
what’s gonna happen next’ and the story will take another turn and
will leave you horrified.
Second story, The Clay Mother, this one is my personally the most
favorite story of the book. We will come across a small boy, who love
spending time alone most of the time and only person in the house who
actually knows him or look after him, is his mother. But one
unfortunate day, she was taken away from him and now you readers will
think the spirit will come and haunt the family but you would not have
expected what comes next. This story was heartwarming and heck
horrifying. The story is a combination of insane young mind and
supernatural entity working together.
The last story of the book, Two-tail; trust me this was the most
terrifying story I have ever read about the monsters or creatures.
Little Paradise can be a happy home to many young orphans but
definitely not a place to be alive for longer days. The story revolves
around murders, greed and spooky tails. I was so thrilled to read this
story that I couldn’t manage to sleep one whole night. My eyes were
transfixed on the window out of fear (laughs). I absolutely fell for
this story, I am short of words to describe how much efforts author
would have put into this very particular story and presented us in the
most beautiful and scary way.
I am highly recommending this book to everyone and just like me you
will be stunned story after story. I would love to rate this book 5/5
stars.
June 9, 2023
"Ringa Ringa Roses" by Neil D'Silva offers a collection of mixed horror tales, each with its own unique flavor. While the book has its strengths, there are also areas where it falls short of delivering the spine-chilling experience expected from the genre.
One notable positive aspect of the book is its simplicity and ease of interpretation. The language flow is accessible, allowing readers to engage with the stories effortlessly. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking an uncomplicated read.
The first short story captivates readers with an intriguing plot, successfully instilling the desired eerie atmosphere. It presents the spine-tingling elements one anticipates in a horror narrative, providing a promising start to the collection.
Regrettably, the second story fails to deliver the expected scares. Its plot feels confusing and unrealistic, lacking the necessary twists and turns to keep readers on edge. This disappointment is compounded by the high expectations set by the initial tale.
Similarly, the third story, despite a compelling beginning, falls short in delivering a truly spooky experience. The ending feels predictable, failing to live up to the potential established in the first chapter. As a result, the reader's expectations, once again, remain unfulfilled.
One common observation throughout the book is that the stories resemble episodes of television horror serials. While this can provide a sense of familiarity, it also leads to easily deduced conclusions, dampening the element of surprise.
In terms of writing style, there were instances where the author's choice of phrasing seemed unusual. For example, the sentence "Whoever paints their walls brown?" in the first story could have been more commonly expressed as "Who paints their walls brown?" These peculiarities occasionally disrupted the immersion in the narrative.
Overall, "Ringa Ringa Roses" offers a mixed bag of horror tales, with a commendable simplicity of language and an intriguing first story. However, it falls short in delivering consistent scares and often follows predictable paths. While resembling television horror serials, it lacks the element of surprise that keeps readers genuinely engaged. With more refined storytelling and a focus on maintaining suspense, this collection could have reached greater heights in the horror genre.
One notable positive aspect of the book is its simplicity and ease of interpretation. The language flow is accessible, allowing readers to engage with the stories effortlessly. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking an uncomplicated read.
The first short story captivates readers with an intriguing plot, successfully instilling the desired eerie atmosphere. It presents the spine-tingling elements one anticipates in a horror narrative, providing a promising start to the collection.
Regrettably, the second story fails to deliver the expected scares. Its plot feels confusing and unrealistic, lacking the necessary twists and turns to keep readers on edge. This disappointment is compounded by the high expectations set by the initial tale.
Similarly, the third story, despite a compelling beginning, falls short in delivering a truly spooky experience. The ending feels predictable, failing to live up to the potential established in the first chapter. As a result, the reader's expectations, once again, remain unfulfilled.
One common observation throughout the book is that the stories resemble episodes of television horror serials. While this can provide a sense of familiarity, it also leads to easily deduced conclusions, dampening the element of surprise.
In terms of writing style, there were instances where the author's choice of phrasing seemed unusual. For example, the sentence "Whoever paints their walls brown?" in the first story could have been more commonly expressed as "Who paints their walls brown?" These peculiarities occasionally disrupted the immersion in the narrative.
Overall, "Ringa Ringa Roses" offers a mixed bag of horror tales, with a commendable simplicity of language and an intriguing first story. However, it falls short in delivering consistent scares and often follows predictable paths. While resembling television horror serials, it lacks the element of surprise that keeps readers genuinely engaged. With more refined storytelling and a focus on maintaining suspense, this collection could have reached greater heights in the horror genre.
May 19, 2024
Blog post link - https://kalaikoodam.blogspot.com/2024...
*****************************************************************************
The book is a collection of three horror stories involving kids. The first story has a single girl child, Nitya who is largely by her parents. When they move into a home and decide to give her room a makeover, little do they realize what they are up against. Nitya encounters a mystical boy who is manifested in the room and he has a special power. The second story is about a boy named Nitin living with his big joint family. He is socially reclusive but very much attached to his mother. One day, his mother returns home dead. He is not ready to accept that and makes a clay doll resembling her. Things start taking a new turn when the clay figurine starts to talk to him. The third story is about a mysterious creature that attacks an orphanage taking children. Nihar decides to fight the creature with others and put an end to it's reign of terror.
First of all, the read was very quick. Within 200 pages, I was able to complete the book in a matter of two hours. Neil D' Silva had done a good job of keeping us engaged in the book with his simple language and interesting narration. The author does not deviate into unnecessary plot twists or jump scares, making this a tight read. I liked the first story; the remaining two were predictable enough. Nevertheless, the read did not bore me. It was interesting how various subjects like mental health, and child care were dealt with subtly in the book. Each of the stories had different settings and dealt with different plots. All the stories had children as their center characters. Since I have been reading horror for quite a long time, none of the stories carried the scare element for me. Non-horror readers can also give it a try as the stories might not be scary enough for such readers.
In short, a small anthology of horror stories that can be read in a short time. The read is interesting and less scary.
*********************************************************************
Follow my blog, FB, and Insta handle for more such reviews.
Insta handle @bibliomaniac_praveen
Personal blog - https://kalaikoodam.blogspot.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thanuzzzz/
*****************************************************************************
The book is a collection of three horror stories involving kids. The first story has a single girl child, Nitya who is largely by her parents. When they move into a home and decide to give her room a makeover, little do they realize what they are up against. Nitya encounters a mystical boy who is manifested in the room and he has a special power. The second story is about a boy named Nitin living with his big joint family. He is socially reclusive but very much attached to his mother. One day, his mother returns home dead. He is not ready to accept that and makes a clay doll resembling her. Things start taking a new turn when the clay figurine starts to talk to him. The third story is about a mysterious creature that attacks an orphanage taking children. Nihar decides to fight the creature with others and put an end to it's reign of terror.
First of all, the read was very quick. Within 200 pages, I was able to complete the book in a matter of two hours. Neil D' Silva had done a good job of keeping us engaged in the book with his simple language and interesting narration. The author does not deviate into unnecessary plot twists or jump scares, making this a tight read. I liked the first story; the remaining two were predictable enough. Nevertheless, the read did not bore me. It was interesting how various subjects like mental health, and child care were dealt with subtly in the book. Each of the stories had different settings and dealt with different plots. All the stories had children as their center characters. Since I have been reading horror for quite a long time, none of the stories carried the scare element for me. Non-horror readers can also give it a try as the stories might not be scary enough for such readers.
In short, a small anthology of horror stories that can be read in a short time. The read is interesting and less scary.
*********************************************************************
Follow my blog, FB, and Insta handle for more such reviews.
Insta handle @bibliomaniac_praveen
Personal blog - https://kalaikoodam.blogspot.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thanuzzzz/
June 13, 2020
Cover Page: The cover is spooky as hell, very well apt as per the book. As the book involves children and bizarre situations. So the cover of a child in a middle and many creepy hands on the cover. One more thing the title is apt for the books as well to know why? Read the book.
Review: I have read multiple books from the author, and I must say some of his books does give you a chill while reading. So the book is divided into three stories.
Children of the walls: The story is about a girl who doesn’t get the required attention a child deserves from the family. And how something bizarre happens and shakes you to the core. So I started reading it at night, and I was done with a part and I messaged the author that I am scared as I was alone in my room, and with every noise, I was being paranoid. So the next day morning when I started reading again, I felt I am watching a movie similar to Conjuring 2 and loved the suspense it created. So overall I loved this story.
The Clay Mother: The story is about a boy who losses his mother and makes a replacement of her from clay. And then bizarre things follow. If you ask me, if it was spooky as the first, my answer is it’s not. But none the less its a nice read.
Two – Tail: This story is again scary and also falls into fiction. As the title is about a inhumane thing called two tales who hunts on kids.
Overall the story started and ended awesome. The middle was not bad but wasn’t scary as other two. Again a good work from author.
Ratings: 4 out of 5
Review: I have read multiple books from the author, and I must say some of his books does give you a chill while reading. So the book is divided into three stories.
Children of the walls: The story is about a girl who doesn’t get the required attention a child deserves from the family. And how something bizarre happens and shakes you to the core. So I started reading it at night, and I was done with a part and I messaged the author that I am scared as I was alone in my room, and with every noise, I was being paranoid. So the next day morning when I started reading again, I felt I am watching a movie similar to Conjuring 2 and loved the suspense it created. So overall I loved this story.
The Clay Mother: The story is about a boy who losses his mother and makes a replacement of her from clay. And then bizarre things follow. If you ask me, if it was spooky as the first, my answer is it’s not. But none the less its a nice read.
Two – Tail: This story is again scary and also falls into fiction. As the title is about a inhumane thing called two tales who hunts on kids.
Overall the story started and ended awesome. The middle was not bad but wasn’t scary as other two. Again a good work from author.
Ratings: 4 out of 5
September 17, 2024
This short anthology novella has 3 horror stories of children being protagonists and antagonists story of family who bought a new home but their daughter's room has a colour they don't like , what happened when they try the new colour and scraps of the old one and how there horror came to live.
Second story about a child who likes to be an introvert and remained in his room and his only obsession with his mother but when she died , he turns more into himself and makes a statue of her mother , but his father got married again and the new mother told him a secret about who she really is and to impress his mother he do whatever she say and turned a psycho and when investigation open after the tragedy things turn out against the family.
Third is the story of an orphan care house where children work as perfume makers and survive on sales but the house has a secret that it was enchanted and the owner has a secret about a danger lurking around them until children decide to defend themselves from that beast and they finally came to know what happened and who the real monster was.
The title is apt because children are the main protagonists and antagonists of the story and adult are the part of it as supporting characters , plot twists were predictable but one can feel goosebumps if they have vivid imagination they draw in there mind
Second story about a child who likes to be an introvert and remained in his room and his only obsession with his mother but when she died , he turns more into himself and makes a statue of her mother , but his father got married again and the new mother told him a secret about who she really is and to impress his mother he do whatever she say and turned a psycho and when investigation open after the tragedy things turn out against the family.
Third is the story of an orphan care house where children work as perfume makers and survive on sales but the house has a secret that it was enchanted and the owner has a secret about a danger lurking around them until children decide to defend themselves from that beast and they finally came to know what happened and who the real monster was.
The title is apt because children are the main protagonists and antagonists of the story and adult are the part of it as supporting characters , plot twists were predictable but one can feel goosebumps if they have vivid imagination they draw in there mind
November 4, 2020
Great stories
This one is a feast for horror lovers with three very nice supernatural tales that in volve children as protagonists.
Of these, I liked the first story "Children of the wall" the best because it was very relatable. The two young kids in the tale are just like our own children, yet they are special in their own ways. This story also sends out the important message of giving time to your kids as parents.
The second story did not scare me that much rather felt sweet and justified. The end is dark indeed, but somehow it did not feel much scary to me. I liked the concept. The bond between the mother and the son was beautiful and yes, on a metaphorical level, mothers do stay with us always, even when they are gone.
The third story Two-tail was definitely the most cinematic of the lot and I could visualise the house, the shed and the rose garden described in the story. I was shaken many a times while reading this one and feared having nightmares, which thankfully I did not.
The writer's note in the beginning justifying the title of the book was beautiful and informative. The striking resemblance between the great plague of the 1665 and the 2020 pandemic hit me hard. All in all, a pretty enjoyable book that can be completed in a few hours.
This one is a feast for horror lovers with three very nice supernatural tales that in volve children as protagonists.
Of these, I liked the first story "Children of the wall" the best because it was very relatable. The two young kids in the tale are just like our own children, yet they are special in their own ways. This story also sends out the important message of giving time to your kids as parents.
The second story did not scare me that much rather felt sweet and justified. The end is dark indeed, but somehow it did not feel much scary to me. I liked the concept. The bond between the mother and the son was beautiful and yes, on a metaphorical level, mothers do stay with us always, even when they are gone.
The third story Two-tail was definitely the most cinematic of the lot and I could visualise the house, the shed and the rose garden described in the story. I was shaken many a times while reading this one and feared having nightmares, which thankfully I did not.
The writer's note in the beginning justifying the title of the book was beautiful and informative. The striking resemblance between the great plague of the 1665 and the 2020 pandemic hit me hard. All in all, a pretty enjoyable book that can be completed in a few hours.
May 5, 2020
Ringa Ringa Roses by Mr Neil D'Silva is a book consisting of three novellas.
1. Children of the Walls
2. The Clay Mother
3. Two-tail.
Don't miss out on the, from the desk of the author like a mediocre reader. It definitely builds a mood to read the complete book by tellings us about the creepy background of the nursery rhyme, 'Ringa Ringa Roses'. The one common thread among the three stories is that how sheer determination of the children in face of the fear may have consequences. The first story has theme of neglection towards kids by parents. The second story has theme of how loss of a the one most loving parent can affect a kid. The third story revolves around an orphan who runs away to orphanage after facing torture from his aunt.
The pace is good. It is indeed a page-turner.
The following paragraph gave me goosebumps -
Nitya flinched. There was a noise in the room. All of a sudden, she realized two things and neither of them calmed her—that she was alone in the house and that she wasn’t alone in her room.
All Stories have their own moments of frightening us. In and all it is a definite go to read book for horror fans.
1. Children of the Walls
2. The Clay Mother
3. Two-tail.
Don't miss out on the, from the desk of the author like a mediocre reader. It definitely builds a mood to read the complete book by tellings us about the creepy background of the nursery rhyme, 'Ringa Ringa Roses'. The one common thread among the three stories is that how sheer determination of the children in face of the fear may have consequences. The first story has theme of neglection towards kids by parents. The second story has theme of how loss of a the one most loving parent can affect a kid. The third story revolves around an orphan who runs away to orphanage after facing torture from his aunt.
The pace is good. It is indeed a page-turner.
The following paragraph gave me goosebumps -
Nitya flinched. There was a noise in the room. All of a sudden, she realized two things and neither of them calmed her—that she was alone in the house and that she wasn’t alone in her room.
All Stories have their own moments of frightening us. In and all it is a definite go to read book for horror fans.
April 1, 2023
A wonderful read though it is a horror book. The three stories centred around kids take you through the travesties experienced by young kids. A young orphan trying to punish his sister's killer slays your heart with his courage and sense of duty even when facing danger. The story of a lonely boy creating a monster as he has no friends or anyone who understands him takes you on horror filled journey through a maze of emotions, loneliness and parent-child relationships. Then comes the ultimate story based on the love of a mother-child. A child loses his mother at a young age and slowly discovers the truth behind her untimely death. All the stories sadden you and yet widen your understanding of child emotions.
May 3, 2020
It has been rightly said by John Milton that the mind is its own place, and in itself, can make a Heaven of Hell and a Hell of Heaven. Our mind is capable of doing plenty of things- if it can solve puzzles, it can also make an atom bomb. Channelizing the right energy into the mind can help us tame it. Well, the characters of Ringa Ringa Roses don’t seem to understand that, for their cryptic encounters with the illusions or residents of their minds can send jitters down anyone’s spine.
Read the complete review here: https://aliveshadow.com/category-book...
Read the complete review here: https://aliveshadow.com/category-book...
May 13, 2020
The tales in this book are entertaining in the sense that they are loaded with horror that hits you like a blast of hot wind on the face. The stories are very interesting and imaginatively written. Of course the thing that is missing in these tales is subtlety. If you are looking to read stories in which the fear creeps in on you silently this book is not for you. On the other hand, if you like entertaining stories in which fear is on the face and growling loudly then this is a great book and is extremely entertaining. On the whole I thoroughly enjoyed reading the tales in the book and definitely recommend this book for people who are aficionados of the horror genre.
October 27, 2020
This Book is a collection of Three short stories, of three Kids... Nitya, Nikhil and Nihar...
All the three stories were Chilling, Scary as well as Creepy, Before reading this book i was so sure that reading Horror fiction will not scare me much... but this book did...
Author Neil D' silva is considered as the best in India in Horror Genre and now having read this book, i can truly say that he is really good at what he does...
Yakshini is another novel, I have been eyeing for long and it seems i will be reading it soon, because these stories have really incresed my love for the Genre...
Highly Recommended for those searching Good Horror Fiction....
All the three stories were Chilling, Scary as well as Creepy, Before reading this book i was so sure that reading Horror fiction will not scare me much... but this book did...
Author Neil D' silva is considered as the best in India in Horror Genre and now having read this book, i can truly say that he is really good at what he does...
Yakshini is another novel, I have been eyeing for long and it seems i will be reading it soon, because these stories have really incresed my love for the Genre...
Highly Recommended for those searching Good Horror Fiction....
November 6, 2020
I am a little late for Halloween but this book was available on KU and I thought why not? I'd heard about Neil D'Silva's horror books on social media and I thought I'd try one. The stories are not very spooky that it will keep you up on rainy nights with a cross in one hand and the Hunuman Chalisa on your lips, but they are interesting and entertaining. I liked the second story in the collection- the clay mother story where an obsessed son creates a clay doll look-alike of his mom after she passes away and the doll starts communicating with him. A good one time read maybe as a break in between your regular books.
May 8, 2020
The thing which stood out most for me was Character Development. We don’t see that often in short stories, for obvious reasons, but in his stories Neil sir managed to put untested kids in demanding situations, provoking their abilities to tackle with the hardships.
I could see the stories moving infront of my eyes, which Neil sir has done effortlessly. The writing is top notch. The vivid settings and different stories are intriguing. Since it’s my first book by him, I am now onto other books under his name....
I could see the stories moving infront of my eyes, which Neil sir has done effortlessly. The writing is top notch. The vivid settings and different stories are intriguing. Since it’s my first book by him, I am now onto other books under his name....
May 19, 2020
I've read fewer than a handful of horror books in my life since I thought they would give me sleepless nights. But I'd read and enjoyed Neil's short story 'The creep on the train' just a couple of days back. So I gave this one a go and I was not disappointed. Great storytelling! I wasn't scared by the stories though coz I'm old enough to know that the real monsters lie in some humans:) ( A point that Neil makes, too, through his stories)
May 4, 2020
With three novellas in one, the range of emotions in these horror stories are differently dealt with. With children as the main subjects, all three stories will appeal to your instincts. I especially loved the second story. Neil D'Silva has brought out the psychology of fear really well, elucidating it at the children's thought levels.
May 6, 2020
What an amazing experience! This has 3 Stories having 1 child protagonist each. All 3 children are very strong. Nitya, Nihar and Nikhil challenge their bizarre situation as people with great imagination and fight their fears. All in all a great read.
August 22, 2020
Three different stories in the horror genre with kids as the stars. In my opinion the kids in all the three stories were quite fearless - the actual heroes in every sense, though what added to the fear factor is that I as a reader was concerned for their safety. A good way devised by Neil to highlight the scary component. My favourite of the three is the Clay Mother.
September 4, 2020
3.5 stars
A collection of 3 horror stories revolving around children. Of 3, first two were ok but i really liked the last one. Overall, an average read and you'll find better horror novels out there.
A collection of 3 horror stories revolving around children. Of 3, first two were ok but i really liked the last one. Overall, an average read and you'll find better horror novels out there.
September 14, 2022
Three short horror tales with each having a spine chilling storyline. My personal favourite was clay mother. It has so many deep psychological aspects to the tale and when it's from a child's perspective it becomes all the more frightening.
May 5, 2020
What an amazing wrting skill !
Can scare the eff outta you if you arent prepared ! 😍❤
Waiting for more stories like this !
Ringa Ringa Roses...
Pocket full of Horrors 🎊
Can scare the eff outta you if you arent prepared ! 😍❤
Waiting for more stories like this !
Ringa Ringa Roses...
Pocket full of Horrors 🎊
September 4, 2020
The stories were amazing, each giving ample scares and chills! Neil D’Silva once again proves his mastery of the horror genre!
July 29, 2022
3 short horror stories. First was ridiculous. The second was tolerable. The third was so dragging and boring that I couldn’t wait for the book to finish.
March 20, 2021
What an exciting read!!!
I am always fascinated by horror genre. The best thing about it is though the theme is same but the experience varies from person to person and the way they perceive it. Neil's book has actually covered all such experiences in a nutshell. Though all the three stories have different plot setting but the thrill, suspense and horror elements uncover itself on its own pace, which actually provides a spine chilling impression on the readers mind. In love with the crisp and compact writing style that kept the stories moving. This is definitely a good read for short story lovers...
I am always fascinated by horror genre. The best thing about it is though the theme is same but the experience varies from person to person and the way they perceive it. Neil's book has actually covered all such experiences in a nutshell. Though all the three stories have different plot setting but the thrill, suspense and horror elements uncover itself on its own pace, which actually provides a spine chilling impression on the readers mind. In love with the crisp and compact writing style that kept the stories moving. This is definitely a good read for short story lovers...
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