Colonel Khan & the Mystery of the Falcon Feather: A Gripping Murder Mystery and Classic Detective Thriller by M.Q. Qureshi

 Colonel Khan & the Mystery of the Falcon Feather: A Gripping Murder Mystery and Classic Detective Thriller by M.Q. Qureshi

"Colonel Khan & the mystery of the falcon feather" is intriguing and full of twists and turns. I picked up the book by having a glance at the book cover depicting Colonel Khan and the related characters. I was curious to read about how this aged person has a sharp eye on the culprits.

The story begins with Sammy Gupta suggesting Imran Qazi hire a detective, Colonel Khan. Qazi was looking for his help in solving a case, and he readily agreed. What follows is his life and his take at different places, from barber's shops to cafes and much more. I enjoyed following his investigation as two deaths and a mysterious feather slowly reveal a deeper story.

Quotes from the book that piqued me:

💘She understood that elegance is an investment that outlasts its cost.” “I’m always amazed how many people walk past every day and have no idea of the history,” Amy said.

The book has the charm of an old-fashioned detective like CID from TV shows, where every conversation and every clue has a purpose, which made the journey all the more satisfying for me. 

The author has seldom dropped clues like missing pieces of a puzzle. The characters, along with mirrored characters, evoke curiosity. their behavior and unveiled each of their secrets along with emotions, grief, and truth. 

When I delved into this detective mystery, it felt like taking a deep dive in the mind of the victim and K! all both. The setting of the book added a layer to the story, and how investigation was compared with cooking was intriguing. As soon as I started reading this book, the author's writing and the colonel's character grabbed me.

Overall, it is a gripping mystery that takes you quickly towards the end.

Purchase here.

Parts of Living by Sindhura Chamala

 Parts of Living by Sindhura Chamala

As the name suggests, the book portrays how a person has different phases of life. This depiction made me ponder how much we ever introspect about ourselves. But as I started diving into the story, it presented a woman who had carefully organized her living. 

The story follows Meera, a fifty-year-old woman who lives alone in her house. Her house help likes her and agrees to whatever tasks she provides. Over the course of a few weeks, she reflects on her relationships, her choices, and the very idea of what it means to continue living. 

The story unfolds through almost 22 days in Meera's life, which perfectly justifies the title. It presents the ordinary moments in our lives playing an important role in changing our perspective and engaging in quiet reflections regarding them. 

The author has well penned the character of Meera and the way she gets influenced by her chat and other persons around. Through interactive conversations between Meera and her online friend, it makes it more captivating. The writing is simple yet evocative. 

Overall, "Parts of Living" is a well-written, thoughtful, and thought-provoking read. 

Purchase here.

Unlock The Animal World: Incredible Facts for Young Superheroes by Ingrid Newkirk

 Unlock The Animal World: Incredible Facts for Young Superheroes by Ingrid Newkirk

"Unlock the Animal World" is an informative yet adventurous read. In this book, I felt like taking a trip around the world, knowing different animals and their nature. Some of the fascinating capabilities made me wonder, if these animals could do it, then why can't I?

Each page of this book shares an inspiring story that kids should be told. I was mesmerized by the brave Janeysha, who took the risk of going inside the drain to protect a scared, hungry, grateful kitten. The way she helped the kitten, ignoring her safety inside a storm drain, is commendable.

The author has well researched the minutest details of these animals and shared a lot about them in detail. The book covers a range of topics, starting with small trips and extending to the Great Migration of land animals on Earth. She even shares about how animals show their true love and affection. She even shares that mice enjoy receiving gentle messages.

What I liked the most was the chapter "Family First" from a fresh perspective. Most animals show their families that they care in ways that aren't as messy but definitely just as impressive. Even pigs enjoy listening to music, playing with footballs, and getting massages.

The core theme of the book is that humans learn varied activities from animals. Still, they are the first to harm animals. Instead, humans should join hands and protect all animals.

It is, on the whole, a thought-provoking and insightful read.

Purchase here.

The Last Man Standing | Will Humanity Survive the fight against Evil by Naveen Singh

 The Last Man Standing | Will Humanity Survive the fight against Evil by Naveen Singh

Will humanity survive the fight against evil?

Naveen Singh’s "The Last Man Standing" is a fast-paced mystery. It is a high-stakes thriller that asks a genuinely terrifying question: "What if human evolution didn't just change our minds but actively consumed our bodies?"

The story begins with a sudden meeting called by Professor Mehta to discuss a unique trait found in a small town, Vilasnagar. To deeply investigate and save the feeble and innocent people, he hands over the task to his capable students, Aaditya and Shalini.

In this town, people are observing a strange change in their capabilities. Each and every person turns into a humanoid with inexplicable mannerisms. As these "super-intelligent" beings rise to power, their physical bodies begin to wither away under the crushing weight of their own evolved minds.

I was intrigued to find out these two navigate the incredibly blurry line between absolute genius and total madness. Aditya consistently risks his own sanity and humanity to uncover the truth and provides the emotional heartbeat of the book.

The premise hits hard and fast. I was curious to know how Aaditya and Shalini fight against this unknown genius. Will they succeed or lose everything in that investigation?

Overall, "The Last Man Standing" is a refreshing addition to the Indian sci-fi landscape. It manages to take a massive, global concept—the survival and evolution of the human race—and deliver it through an intimate, tense lens.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters

The SAINT: It is my Love Story by Anjali Bindal

 The SAINT: It is my Love Story by Anjali Bindal

Becoming a saint is not an easy task. But this story makes you realise the desire to become a reputed saint. But is this an easy task, or do the neighbouring beauty or human longings make it possible?

The story involves a Bihari boy who has a keen desire to become a saint. He runs away from his family and eventually succeeds in becoming a saint. But the problem starts when he is introduced to his teenage crush. His internal desire to keep her safe and sound creates a problem for him to deal with his emotions.

In this book, I get to read about the love of two persons depicted in an unusual manner where both are hiding their love and identity from people. Each doesn't want to share their past life or cracks in their present with nearby people. The author treated faith and romance with warmth and a bit of humour. 

The author demonstrates that spirituality and human emotions are not always mutually exclusive. They sometimes collide, resulting in awkward, amusing, and surprisingly meaningful occasions. This adds to the novel's appeal and impact.

The style is basic and conversational, so it's easy to read in one sitting. It took me only one day to complete.

I paused and laughed my heart out when I saw how Babaji handled his admirers. The romance seemed predetermined and written.

Overall, it depicts that love is eternal and predecided.

Purchase here.

The Chanakya Playbook: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Entrepreneur by Abhiraj Gupta

 The Chanakya Playbook: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Entrepreneur by Abhiraj Gupta

"The Chanakya Playbook" is a rare and intellectually rigorous book that bridges ancient Indian Strategic wisdom with the realities of mordern enterprise. This book is apt for startups, MSME's and global conglomerates alike. 

In this book, the author challenges the mordern corporation through the lens of Chankya's thoughts. He put forth the concept of saptunga, shadunga, and yoga-kshema. He tanslates classical principles into contemporary frameworks that address real world challenges. He talks about systems thinking grounded in responsibility, resilence, and sustainability.

What I liked the most was the importance of discipline, patience, self control and try making sensible decisions. Many of his ideas were simple yet evocative. Many of the ideas are simple on the surface, but they make you reflect on how you approach challenges, relationships, and long-term goals. I especially liked the discussions around balancing ambition with values and the idea that leadership starts with learning how to manage yourself first.

The writing style is clear and easy to follow. The short chapters, examples, and practical insights kept me engaged throughout and made the lessons easier to absorb. It felt more like a guide that encourages you to think differently about growth, leadership, and decision-making.

The book also includes several case studies and counter case studies that explain the reasons behind success and failure. At the end of every chapter, it highlights key lessons that make the concepts easier to understand and apply. I especially loved how the book emphasizes the importance of using intelligence wisely, controlling greed and fear, and maintaining calm leadership during difficult situations and business challenges.

This book teaches economic strategies, risk management, justice in law, leadership, team building, alliances, and many other important aspects required for running a successful business. Whether you are planning to start a business or already managing one, this book serves as a complete guide. The blend of Chanakya’s ancient wisdom with modern business practices is what makes this book unique and impressive.

Overall, it is a insightful read.

Purchase Here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters

Maya, Dead and Dreaming by Lana Sabarwal

 Maya, Dead and Dreaming by Lana Sabarwal

"Maya, Dead and Dreaming" is a gripping psychological thriller with twists and turns. It was a complete page-turner as it evoked a spark of curiosity now and then. Each chapter evokes a sensation of what's next.

The story is about Munna, who receives a letter claiming her childhood friend, Maya's, death. The timeline moves back and forth between 1952 and 1938. Munna is baffled and curious to unravel her past and the related events.

But the question is why now? Why, after exactly fourteen years, does someone want to reveal this? Why not sooner, and why of all people does Munna have to get to the bottom of this?

I was on an absolute rollercoaster ride of curiosity, uncertainties, and twists. The plot execution is masterfully crafted from the start till the end. The mystery enveloping the story follows a great pattern of unpredictabilities and jaw-dropping revelations. 

The author has meticulously weaved secrets and hidden truths about the murder. This secret was cloaked in the shadows for way too long. The characterization of each character had layers upon layers of untold enigmas. 

What astonished me the most was the part that shared about a town steeped with secrets. Here everyone knew everything, whether it was whispers of immutable gossip or the echoes of the past.

Overall, it is a thrilling read.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters