Aswathi Chandran
The protagonist of the story is Raju, aka Srinivasan. The story starts with the day his father died while he was in the womb, how his mother faced hardships to bring him up, and how his life turned out from being a child, teenager, and adult. He becomes a temple inspector and later resigns and joins as a salesman at a multinational tea and coffee company. Being a salesman, he still helps in finding many activities of the criminal, his childhood bully, Sekar, who is into smuggling gold, artefacts, and opium. Sekar is threatening him every time he meets the senior official, Natarajan, to share his findings. The story is interesting, as on one side we are understanding Raju and how his life is entwined with things around him and about the political happenings in Madras Presidency and how things are changing. Explaining each part of Chennai gives me goosebumps, as I am proud of Madrasi. The way Raju learned Telugu was inspiring. People around him were so helpful, which helped him thrive. There should be people in society like Raju who are selfless and think of saving society, rather than selfish people who care for themselves and their families. I loved the adventurousness of Raju.
I am waiting eagerly for the release of the next book in the series. I wish to call it historical fiction too, though the author said it was bio-fiction as it is the life of his father narrated with some facts and fiction. This is the perfect book for people who love reading history, biography, and crime novels.
The book is a satire on our Indian Democracy. Vikram an engineering student from Pune comes to Delhi intending to become a standup comedian but to live in Delhi he needs money so he attends an interview with Great Indian Democracy magazine and gets selected. He didn't know he was the chosen one. He wrote each article in a satirical tone which increased the subscribers.
I love the name given to famous news reporters such as Pranab Goswami and the names of other ministers as well as mentioning the loop holes in the Indian Constitution and politics. I loved the way Mr Verma who is a civil servant explains how civil servants are used by politicians.
It was heart-melting to hear the story of Bala, he is the chairman of GID magazine, who was an IFS officer before and how he was sacked from his service by false acquisition.
I loved this dialogue from the book “The irony is that the most educated group of the people in our country has to pay obeisance every day to a bunch of illiterate, power-hungry people ruling our nation.”
In the story, we can see how a news channel starts with an issue happening around and forgets about it when a new issue comes which is trending and this goes on.
You will enjoy reading if you love satires are into politics and current affairs and know how our system works.
Caged Tiger by Subhashish Bhadra is a great read with a lot of insights into basic things, such as how the constitution gives excessive power to the government over the citizens and how the country and its people are affected. The change of basic things is necessary as it affects the economy, culture, and life. I loved the sentence “Leaders come and go, institutions stay forever”.
As India is a subcontinent with a varied set of people, landscape, culture and language and thinking of unity of the people as one nation some colonial rules are still part of the constitution which gives more power to the government which affects the development of the country.
The author explains the need for change as our country has a large young population and the need of using it effectively in reaching glory. He compares nations that provide freedom for their citizens and how the economic restriction is less and how it paved the way for being a consistent performer and a developed nation and explains with events, articles of the constitution and the amendments made.
This book makes you think and strive for change, being a nonfiction book, it was interesting and informative and made me think from another perspective. The book was written in simple language and kudos to the author for bringing his view, perspective with well researched events and examples to explain the need of the change in the foundation.
Just Aspire by Ajai Chowdhry is a biography. The author narrates his story from his childhood, how he became part of the founding members of HCL and how the entrepreneur journey sculpted him into the person he is now his ideas, and his thinking. I loved how he narrated his experience and gave insights and explanations about his likings, which are similar to my interest in books, futurology techs and space, which connected me to the story and author. The author explained how he had a work-life balance, how he had spent time with family and explained about the family members and bonds. I loved he was a responsible person and contributed to being a part of an NGO and starting one to help the people in need. He had the passion and commitment to make changes in the industry he worked and in people's life. I loved the way he explained about IITs and how I made some changes that had a great impact. Whatever the work is do it with full commitment and passion, and the results will come along as expected.
The writing connects with readers. A well-narrated journey of knowledge sharing from an experienced personality is an inspiration for the current generation. I would recommend this book to people who are interested in reading a biography and knowing about entrepreneurship and its experiences which can help them in their entrepreneurial journey.
“Bloody Dreams” by Gopinath Lakshmanan is a thought-provoking and introspective novel that explores the complexities of gender and societal expectations. The story follows Rajeev, a young man who grows up believing that men are superior to women and that a woman's place is in the home. However, a series of events, including a dream where he becomes a woman, force him to reevaluate his beliefs and confront the harsh realities of gender inequality.
Lakshmanan's skillful writing and vivid descriptions bring the story to life, immersing the reader in the world of Chennai and the struggles faced by women. The themes of gender, identity, and societal expectations are explored in a nuanced and insightful way, challenging readers to examine their own beliefs and assumptions.
One of the standout features of the novel is its characters. Rajeev's transformation from a narrow-minded and chauvinistic man to a more empathetic and understanding person is compelling and well-realized. The other characters, including Divya, Rajeev's girlfriend and the only person who recognizes him in his dream, are also well-crafted and add depth and complexity to the story.
Overall, “Bloody Dreams” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and assumptions about gender and societal expectations. Lakshmanan's skillful writing and well-crafted characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in exploring these important issues. If you're looking for a novel that will make you think and question your assumptions, “Bloody Dreams” is the book for you.
Broken Dreams by Aditya Banerjee is a murder mystery. The crime thriller is a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue that revolves around Karan, an apprentice in a car workshop owned by the Bhaskar brothers. When a crime occurs, the newly recruited officer in Callipur is tasked with investigating the case. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that there is more to the crime than meets the eye.
I loved the village of Callipur where everybody knows each other. The story takes place after a period of emergency in India. The case investigation with the help of a reporter and how each person thinks differently, which helps solve the mystery, makes the book an interesting read.
It is a well-crafted story that will appeal to anyone who loves a good mystery or suspenseful read.
“The Tattoo Trail” is a thrilling murder mystery that follows the investigation of the death of Vishnukanth, a top defense officer working on the India-China doklam issue. Keshav and Sumitra are the investigators tasked with solving the case, and their investigation leads them to suspect Kali Nath.
The author does an excellent job of creating a tense and atmospheric setting, with well-crafted characters and a well-paced plot that keeps the reader engaged. The story is full of twists and turns, and the author keeps the reader guessing until the very end.
One of the strengths of the book is the way it explores complex social issues in contemporary India. The author seamlessly weaves these themes into the story, making for a thought-provoking and engaging read.
Overall, “The Tattoo Trail” is an excellent murder mystery that will appeal to fans of the genre and readers interested in contemporary India. The characters are well-drawn, the writing is engaging, and the plot is full of suspense and surprises. I highly recommend this book.
Kate Elizabeth Russell's debut novel, “My Dark Vanessa,” is a powerful and emotionally charged exploration of trauma and abuse. The novel tells the story of Vanessa Wye, a 15-year-old student at an elite boarding school in Maine, who becomes involved in a relationship with her English teacher, Jacob Strane. The relationship continues for years, and Vanessa comes to believe that it is a consensual love affair. However, as an adult, she begins to confront the truth about the abuse she suffered and the lasting impact it has had on her life.
What makes “My Dark Vanessa” such a compelling read is the way in which Russell handles the subject matter. She deftly navigates the complexities of a relationship that, on the surface, appears to be consensual but is actually deeply problematic. Through Vanessa's eyes, we see how she is groomed and manipulated by Strane, how he preys on her vulnerability and naivety to get what he wants.
At the same time, Russell also examines the impact of the abuse on Vanessa's life. She shows us how it has affected her relationships with others, her sense of self-worth, and her ability to trust. Vanessa's story is heart-wrenching and tragic, but it is also a testament to her strength and resilience.
Throughout the novel, Russell's writing is powerful and evocative. She captures the nuances of emotion and psychology with precision and sensitivity, creating a rich and complex portrait of a young woman coming to terms with her past. The novel is difficult to read at times, but it is also a necessary and important work that shines a light on the pervasive issue of sexual abuse and the lasting impact it can have.
Overall, “My Dark Vanessa” is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of trauma and abuse, and the resilience of the human spirit.
“Fragments of Emotions” is a poignant collection of poems that explore the complex emotions of life. Each poem is beautifully crafted and captures the essence of human emotions in a unique way. The author's use of vivid imagery and metaphors add depth and meaning to the poems, making them resonate with the reader long after they have been read.
The themes explored in the book are universal, ranging from love, loss, pain, and joy. The poems are relatable, and the author's raw and honest portrayal of emotions makes them feel authentic and genuine.
The collection is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different aspect of life. The sections are organized in a way that creates a cohesive narrative and allows the reader to follow the author's journey through life's ups and downs.
Overall, “Fragments of Emotions” is a beautiful collection of poems that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling both uplifted and contemplative. The author's use of language is exceptional, and the collection is a must-read for anyone who loves poetry or wants to explore the complex emotions that make us human.
Pandu the Speaking Dog and My Other Little Friends” is a delightful and heartwarming collection of short stories that will capture the hearts of both children and adults alike. Written by Radhikasatyamurty Dharanipragada, the book features a series of charming tales that centre around the author's pets and their misadventures.
One of the standout stories in the collection is “Pandu the Speaking Dog,” in which the titular character learns to communicate with his owner through a special collar. The story is a delightful exploration of the bond between humans and animals, and the joy that comes from understanding and connecting with one another.
Other stories in the collection feature a mischievous cat named Kiki, a pair of adventurous hamsters, and a curious little turtle. Each tale is filled with humour, heart, and a deep appreciation for the quirks and personalities of our animal friends.
What makes “Pandu the Speaking Dog and My Other Little Friends” such a charming read is the way in which the stories are told. Dharanipragada's writing is warm and engaging, and she has a talent for capturing the essence of her animal characters in a way that is both funny and endearing.
Overall, “Pandu the Speaking Dog and My Other Little Friends” is a charming and heartwarming collection of stories that will delight readers of all ages. Whether you're a fan of animals or simply looking for a feel-good read, this book is a must-read. So, if you're looking for a book that will bring a smile to your face and warm your heart, be sure to pick up a copy of “Pandau the Speaking Dog and My Other Little Friends” today!
“Daisy Jones and The Six” is a gripping novel that explores the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band. Written by Taylor Jenkins Reid, the story is told through a series of interviews with the band members, their families, and those who were involved in their lives.
The book is a masterful work of fiction that captures the essence of the rock ‘n' roll era, with its wild parties, drug use, and artistic creativity. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, and the relationships between them are dynamic and realistic.
What sets this book apart from other rock ‘n' roll stories is how the author weaves the different perspectives to create a complete and compelling narrative. The format of the book, presented as a series of interviews, is highly effective in capturing the different voices and personalities of the characters.
Overall, “Daisy Jones and The Six” is a must-read for anyone who loves music, drama, and a good story. The book is beautifully written and emotionally engaging, and it will leave you thinking about the characters and their lives long after you've finished reading.
Just Saying by Sophie Ranald is a romantic read with a lot of stories entwined with a lot of characters. The protagonist of the story is Alice who was a trainee in a Law firm and was in a relationship with another trainee in the same firm. Thinkings start turning down when the head of her department Gordon was removed and Alice should either move to another department or leave and find a job somewhere else but she changes her mind to join a pub as a part-time worker and things start changing as Joe brings his ex-girlfriend to another room so they can share rent as the income from Alice is less. Zoe tries to lure and get back Joe and Alice is hardworking to get crowdfunding for the pub she is working to not get sold out there is another story of Maurice and Wesly who kept a secret thinking it a shameful thing for forty years and which may cause detention to Wesly from London.
The story mainly revolves around these people and how think to get carried down and what happens at the end. I loved reading it and enjoyed the writing style of the author how the story was divided into each chapter and the way the past events of Alice are narrated like her memory than saying it to someone else and the way each character was developed. I liked Heather who was her best friend to whom she confides everything.
The book is for people who love romance with some humour and satire.
The book is a helpful read for beginners who wish to understand the concept of investing and how to begin their journey of saving and making an investment regularly which helps during their retirement period which can be 20 years of living without a job and regular income from their investment to have a smooth retirement period. There are a lot of expenses that you need money for when you are 25+ like when you have an educational loan of yours to be repaid or need of amount for your kids' education till they can earn for themselves. The author explains such things and how to tackle your expenses by saving more and spending less in a simple and understandable way for the readers.
The book is a short read power packed with a lot of contents that brings back the nostalgic memories of a middle-class family, the way they lived and the togetherness and taking decisions together, budgeting and budget cutting and sacrifice by the parents to buy you a new dress in the year helping parents with their work and sharing the happenings of the day to each other about school, work and about neighbours.
The narrator says how his family became so rich by starting a business and the business owner was his Uncle and how their life revolves and what are the changes that happened in their lives after riches and how dependent their family is on their Uncle and everyone trying to make him comfortable and becoming a guard to him as he is the only breadwinner and reason for the rich life they are living.
The narrator always visits a coffee house and loves to hear opinions and talk to Vincent. I loved the character Anita who was the narrator's wife.
It's a good read for people born in the 80s and 90s which can be a reminiscence of some childhood events.
Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a historical fiction taking place during India's partition. Partition always makes me think of the horrific events that happened in the border states and the communal violence. Partition was just an idea people thought would fade off but the way it happened and how it affected many lives will always be in the hearts of the people.
The story was so amazing and heartbreaking. Three sisters' life and the way the turning of events after the death of their father during Direct Action Day. I loved the character Priya a lot, she was so ambitious. Jamini was someone who wished to be loved and her actions make us angry and her yearning makes us feel pity for her. Deepa, I never thought she will take such big decisions and loved Deepa and Raza in a different way for what they are.
“Humankind would be better off if there were no religions” - it's true when I think of the events that are happening and happened and the hatred towards people in the name of religion.
I loved the writing style which was so lucid, and how each character is narrated and their story. It will create the scene while you are reading and give the picture of how partition changed many lives.
The book Sherlock and Devdas by the author really a different combintaion that worked so well in this thriller. The way their life gets entwined and their friendship and solving the case together was good.
There are lof of twists and turns that a mystery thriller have and this characters working together and solving. The dialogs are impressive. I loved the style of narration easy to read and blend in.
The story starts with the introduction of Sooraj and his bachelor life in his 40s who tries to find a girlfriend through tinder. Finally, he finds someone who matches his exception and comes to the twist that he was married once and have a child and the flashback was good of the school buddies becoming lovers, their marriage and different phases of their life.
This was a nice read with the story from the sides of Ridhi and Sooraj and there were very few characters in the story I loved how each character was brought into the picture.
Love alone is not enough for a relationship to survive.
Kudos to the author for bringing one of the powerful female characters in Ramayana to light. I love Kaikeyi, a warrior princess who married Nemi and became queen of Kosala. Unlike other queens, she is a warrior and was in the plan of Akhand Bharat. The story is narrated from the side of Kaikeyi and why she used the two boons and send Rama to dandaka and her goal.
We all have heard that Kaikeyi loved Ram more than her son Bharat but she decided to remove him as emperor of Kosala and banishment was the idea of wicked Mantra who manipulated her. The story written by the author explaining the decision, how valuable an asset she was to the empire of Dashrath and how she was keenly involved in governing the empire was narrated well.
I loved the writing style and the way each character and situation are narrated. If someone loved to read from the story of Kaikeyi and part of Ramayan from a different perspective, it's a perfect read for you!
I enjoyed Highway to Swades. It was an engaging read. What is India known for its diversity, there are around 100+ of languages spoken in different parts, the culture, the food, the landscape, the climate everything is different in different parts of india. Its diversity is its uniqueness.
I doubt whether one can travel thw whole India and know the enthincity, culture and different faces of india. This book is sure read for one who want to see the different faces of India. The author shares her experience of journey across India and how we can utlize the power and riches for betterment of the nation. It really motivates us work towards betterment of our country.
The book is well complied. I loved the cover pic and wish to say that one who want to learn from others experience to know more about the country should read it.
The food guru is a book from an author who is an ayurvedic medical practitioner from her personal experience and the way she treated. We are what we eat is so true. If you eat healthy food in right quantity we will be healthy. Food plays important role in keeping our mind and body healthy. It has a lot of receipes which can improve our well being. The author also speaks about the combination of the ingredie Which can distrupt oyr bodily functions. This will be an eye opener for us all.
This is a guide to improve ourselves and make a helathy lifestyle. This was an helpful read for me. I loved the simple and delicate way the author explained about health and well being.
I loved this book as it gave a lot of insights how we can change one's condition or improve from illness having nutritional food that are right for the person. I got to know more about the dairy and food that cause inflammation and allergic foods to stomach of few. We can improve our health and our kids looking at what we eat the day and how it affects in the morning or causing any health issue like indigestion, infection etc.,
We all know doctors give medicine for the symptoms and may forget to find the main underlying cause behind it , the nutrition requirement, environment, stress which are causing inflammation. Making small healthy changes one by one can more effective that we can lessen the visits to our doctor.
Kudos to author Sheila for bringing out her experience as paediatrician and naturopathic doctor. The way she observed each her patient and her thought process to bring some changes into their lives and enlighten the mothers with her knowledge is great and thanks for the insights.
The book is right read for moms and mom to be, to understand how they should hear their gut feeling when it comes to their children. The diet mentioned with the plan and the receipts are very helpful.
Great book. The way it was narrated was so good and loved listening. She has covered a lot of things what are the utilities needed for witch craft what are the meaning and when to use what and absolute book for beginners. I wish to learn more about witchcraft and am into it more now.
The way the people around the world think of witch craft in a wrong way is hurtful. It is the way to connect with nature and universe and understand the true essence of life.
The book is a best gift for people who want be vegan and people who follow veganism. I loved the recipes mentioned in the book which would be very useful if you wish to be vegan and cook a food that has right amount of protein, vitamin, minerals required for a day whether you are a normal or athlete or gym person.
The author gives recipes to prepare vegan milk and butter and explains about protein, fat and how you can have high protein using plant based diet.
Merged review:
The book is a best gift for people who want be vegan and people who follow veganism. I loved the recipes mentioned in the book which would be very useful if you wish to be vegan and cook a food that has right amount of protein, vitamin, minerals required for a day whether you are a normal or athlete or gym person.
The author gives recipes to prepare vegan milk and butter and explains about protein, fat and how you can have high protein using plant based diet.
This is a great read for people who are planning to have kids. The book covers a lot of topics like pregnancy planning, pregnancy loss and about each trimester and post pregnancy and postpartum depression. Each stage is explained in detail and what they experienced and other moms and mom to be experienced was there. I really loved the way they explained pregnancy loss they used this word instead of miscarriage and how the loss is different of everyone and how it affects and what needs to be done to have a good relationship with yourself and partner than detaching from everyone around. As it mentioned in title it talks about birth and beyond and I wish you read to understand what would be good for you as Sara and Teresa has shared a lot of stuffs that are helpful for people across the world who wish to have the little ones in their life and to feel the parenthood.
I really there are different ways and positions to give birth as I have watched only one position in movies and in hospital and I got to know more about it we should find the right doctor or midwife who matches with our mindset and we should be able to feel secure talking to them. Changing doctors to get the right and comfortable one is not bad.
The writing style was so simple and lucid and I liked the way they were expressing themselves openly so that it help others and there are few pictures of them with their kids which is so lovely.