Love & Liabilities by NIHARA HAREESH

 Love & Liabilities by NIHARA HAREESH

"Love and Liabilities" is a thrilling story with past secrets and hidden desires. Initially i felt it a slow paced story but gradually I get involved with the shades of the characters.

The story follows the lives of Aana and Denzel, two people whose paths cross at a time when neither of them is ready, yet both of them are quietly longing for something real. They wish for something true and not for fame or money.

Their meeting begins as a simple friendship that slowly grows into something beautiful, something neither of them can ignore. There’s a mix of possessiveness, protectiveness, and emotional tension that makes their connection feel alive and meaningful.

Denzel is powerful and successful but still is not the man he appears to be. Beneath the surface lies a past that keeps coming back to haunt him. Even though he has everything laid out in front of him, his emotional scars surface at the most unexpected moments, making him vulnerable in a way that feels real and relatable.

What truly stands out is how beautifully the book explores relationships beyond romance. The themes of friendship, sisterhood, and especially the bond within the D’Melo family add emotional depth and comfort to the narrative. Nihara Hareesh reminds us that love doesn’t wait for the right moment, it finds us in the middle of chaos, fear, and emotional baggage, and still chooses to stay.

Overall, Love & Liabilities is a heartfelt blend of healing, passion, and emotional growth. A must-read for anyone who enjoys romances that feel real, tender, and deeply human. 

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Time-Travelling Watch by Shubira Prasad

 Time-Travelling Watch by Shubira Prasad

"Time Travelling Watch" is an exhilarating story of adventure, thrill, and fun with knowledge. The family went on a trip to Goa with Chutney, where they get to see different places.

It begins with a simple beach vacation that quickly turns out to be an adventurous trip where the trio finds a mysterious time-traveling watch. This was somewhere hidden in one of the desolated forts of Goa where hardly any person wanders. This discovery makes their guide or friend believe that these kids are not like other kids but far smarter than their age group.

This discovery sparks a journey through time, where the trio finds itself unraveling enthralling tales from Goa’s history. I enjoyed reading their encounter with Lavanya Shanbhag, a fierce freedom fighter who bravely fought against Portuguese rule. 

I liked the bond of children with Chutney and XOXO; they keep the peacock feather for him to take the smell to have some energy to roam around. 

I was inspired by Lavanya's inspiring and poignant story. It was intriguing to read about her sacrifice. It evoked a sense of courage and sacrifice and led me to know the complex history of the region.

The author meticulously presents courage and resistance among the characters. The characters are relatable and well-crafted. The language is simple yet evocative.

Overall, it is a heartwarming tale of friendship and discovery. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend to all. 

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The War of Worth: A deeply personal memoir on Body Image, Anxiety and the Healing Journey to Self-Love by Nisha Shenoy

 The War of Worth: A deeply personal memoir on Body Image, Anxiety and the Healing Journey to Self-Love by Nisha Shenoy

Living a life with too much weight involves a lot of peer pressure, societal pressure or pressure from family. Though none are directly involved with the person, still, they want you to change. They are indirectly or face-to-face making fun of you and your obesity. Such a heartfelt story relatable to me is this book.

I could feel the pain and anguish of the author when she was sent to a detoxification centre at a mere age of 16 just to protect the family's image. The little food served and mockery done by other same-age mates or elder women is heart-touching and definitely life-changing.

I liked the subtle reflections of these incidents that changed her perspective. Though she started admiring herself as a person long after, these moments still haunt her.

Quote from the book:
❤️ Life doesn't always give us what we need. But it certainly gives us what we deserve."

I enjoyed reading the insightful Part 3 where the author learns to love herself before complaining about her body. Her 10 micro-habits are worth reading and imbibing in our lives too.

Overall, it is an adorable and inspiring read.

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Making [I]t Personal by Dr. Ritu Garg Rastogi

 Making [I]t Personal by Dr. Ritu Garg Rastogi

We all could feel the changes occurring in the weather or environment around us. But how many of us do anything or try at least? This book acts as the first step to evoke awareness among people so that they understand it as their problem and do something. The fact is that we are a part of this change, and if we could bring about a little change, it would do wonders.

It begins with the quote from the Bhagavad Gita that the environment is not ours to take or leave; it is ours to make. It is a human community to protect the environment for their survival. Here I get to know about 17 sustainable development goals in detail.

Learning about the technosphere and biosphere was alarming. I was shocked to know about the global boiling era that has begun. The author clearly states that technology should be used to enhance our lives rather than us becoming enslaved in the hands of technology.

I relished the thought-provoking questions given after each chapter. What I liked the most was how to prepare bio-enzymes. The 9R's added to my knowledge and made me a way to rethink and work efficiently.

Overall, this is a commendable get-together of facts and actionable ideas to collectively work on.

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Mysteries, Mountains and Mythology: Uttarakhand’s Folktales Retold by Supriya Bansal

 Mysteries, Mountains and Mythology: Uttarakhand’s Folktales Retold by Supriya Bansal

Folktales make me reminded of the rich heritage and culture of our country. I liked the cover of the book and so picked it up. The beautiful hilly region and people trekking over it make it more captivating.

This book is a compilation of ten short stories that narrate the history of Uttarakhand and its people in a fresh manner. Each story has a reference to some traditional tale narrated by our ancestors many times. I was mesmerised by these stories and could relive the moments of fresh air, innocence and loyalty towards people.

Each story has its own aroma, but I liked "When the banana plant is blessed for bravery", "Pure putti, pure pur", and "Call for the forest". What I liked the most is why the pyoli flower is named after a young girl raised in the Himalayan foothills. I get to know about the kafaal fruit that only ripens in the summer.

I loved how the stories are intertwined with the traditions, beliefs and innocent locals. The inclusion of local customs, recipes, and mythological references added real depth to the narrative. I was completely immersed in these folktales, so I read these in one go.

The writing is clear, smooth, and easy to follow. The author has well penned the stories, making them accessible without losing their emotional weight or cultural richness. Each tale has a distinct presence and meaning, leaving a lasting impression even after the last page.

Overall, it is a revisit to our glorious ancient past. 

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Good night, Baba: A Daughter and her father Growing up between Bedtime and Sleep by Sayan Dutta

 Good night, Baba: A Daughter and her father Growing up between Bedtime and Sleep by Sayan Dutta

This is a quiet depiction of sweet moments that are temporary where a father recites bedtime stories to his daughter. Though the kids grow, the essence of these sweet memories stays long.

These nighttime rituals do fade away with time, but a strong bond of love and affection is carved. I acknowledged the difference between weeknights and weekends. What struck me the most was the closing notes provided by the author. Each chapter evolved as a new lesson.

The writing is very simple and easy to read. At times, it felt like I was sitting beside them in that room, watching the scene unfold and remembering similar moments from my own life.

The writing style is intimate and minimalistic. It doesn’t overwhelm you with heavy prose; instead, it gently nudges your emotions, allowing you to fill in the gaps with your own memories.

Overall, it is a heartwarming read.

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RAMAYANA - The Epic Retold for the Modern Reader by Nityanand Charan Das

 RAMAYANA - The Epic Retold for the Modern Reader by Nityanand Charan Das

After reading so many retellings of the Ramayana, this book got fixed in my eye. I could not stop staring at the book cover as if it were calling me to reread through your eyes. I could personally feel the whole story through the beautiful illustrations of the story itself. Each illustration was a remarkable picture in itself, as if rejoicing in the story.

The story began in a very simplified version and in a very innovative manner that even a child could read and understand. I was mesmerised by the storytelling and easy-way manner. Beginning with the birth of Lord Rama to their upbringing. Each chapter was taking me along the path of how Lord Rama turned into a warrior and a saviour.

Each chapter begins with the name "JAI SHRI RAM", which made me realise the path that teaches us how to live with courage, kindness and honour. It helped me understand how to stand by what's right and how to love with all our heart. 

I was so absorbed in the narrative that I finished the book in one sitting. The part where Shurpanakha misleads Ravana, the search for Sita, the great battle begins and Hanuman's unwavering devotion. Each part made me feel the pain and sacrifice of each person.

The author has penned it well in a very easy and simple language. He has made the story precise and crystal clear. His systematic approach and beautiful illustrations of the tale make it more attractive.

Overall, it is an emotional and insightful read. 

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