Bookishlife2022_

  Uncover the Secrets: Why The Spy’s Apprentice by Manish Orian Kindo Should Be Your Next Read In a world where one decision can change the course of your life, how far would you go to survive? How much would you risk to protect the people you care about? These are the powerful questions at the heart of The Spy’s Apprentice – a thrilling new novel by Manish Orian Kindo that’s capturing the attention of readers everywhere. Set against a backdrop of crime, politics, and hidden identities, The Spy’s Apprentice dives deep into the world of espionage, this isn’t a typical brooding spy story that we have read or seen a million times before. It’s a fast-paced journey of survival, loyalty, and betrayal, told through the eyes of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. The book kicks off with a high profile murder and our protagonist, Sajjan, showing up at his old friend’s house — not alone, but accompanied by a young woman and her little sister. What seems like a desperate pl...

 Tadow - Vivid Echoes of Modern India by Shalaka Kulkarni | Book Review Tadow is an unfiltered, gritty collection that peels back the layers of society with unflinching honesty. Shalaka vividly captures the nation’s pulse through the unwavering gaze of a storyteller who refuses to look away. It is a collection of more than fifty short stories, all of which are set in India. These stories showcase various aspects of our country, ranging from the bustling metropolises to the serene, from crowded streets to peaceful hill stations. It simultaneously captures myriads of emotions, exploring the meaning of what it is to live. I loved all the stories, but "Taqdeer", "Champi", "Taciturn", "RunSway" and "Concord". In the story "Piety", the interaction between Farzi and Manan empowers the story with optimism. I felt as if it were narrated for me, and the way God guides us cannot be expressed in words. So it is important to feel the prese...

 People Connect – An Engagement Advantage by Preeti Khanolkar | Book Review Life may not be always rosy in all that we do at our workplace. However, learning from both good and bad experiences is the key to growth in our careers. Growth in our careers often comes from reflecting on our successes and failures alike. By embracing challenges and seeking feedback, we can hone our skills and become more resilient professionals. This book is a treatise for those wanting to engage with employees in creative ways, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration can flourish. By implementing the strategies discussed, leaders can inspire their teams to think outside the box and contribute meaningfully to the organisation's success. The author illustrates how genuine relationships at work foster trust, loyalty, and ultimately success through personal anecdotes and reflections. Checklists and corporate jargon are not the subject of this book. Being present, caring more, and leading...

 Her Life by Ratna Chandu | Book Review This book is a fantastic account of Riya's journey and the tranquillity that brought her to a hospital surrounded by a series of unfortunate events, a destination that seems impossible to reach. The perfect plot adds flavour and spice to the story as it progresses at a steady pace. The entire work is the result of the flawless storytelling that brought each section of the book to life. The book combines chilling suspense with everyday joys and struggles. You can feel Riya's happiness, her discomfort in a small apartment, the heat and noise of Mumbai, and her quiet fear that something is off. The narrative shines brightest in its initial chapters, which tenderly explore the warmth and closeness of their relationship. Ratna Chandu's writing is simple yet evocative, making the reader feel at home with Riya and Abhay's world. The suspenseful undercurrent running through the book keeps the reader engaged, pulling them deeper into th...

 The Founding Fathers of Fraud: Independent India’s First Scandals that Rocked the Nation | The True Crime Account of the Dalmia and Mundhra Scams by Bhaswar Mukherjee | Book Review "The Founding Fathers of Fraud" is an immersive and engaging read. It is a fast-paced read that is bound to stun the readers with both the extent of research and the extent of the scams. It presents the complete account of the Mundhra scandal from 1957, considered the first big financial scandal of independent India, committed by Ramkrishna Dalmia and Haridas Mundhra.   Dalmia and Mundhra, as well as the beginnings of the fraud, are briefly introduced at the beginning of the book. The book traces the financial and political repercussions of the scam from the damaging impact on the financial sector and privatisation of India's insurance sector and also the impact in Parliament.  This book aims to investigate the machinations of Dalmia and Mundhra, their similarities and differences, and t...

 The Irresistible Manager - Managing, Leading and Thriving in a Disrupted World by Bhushan Kulkarni | Book Review This is not just a management book; rather, it is a conversation that is interspersed with real-world tales, useful tips, and a dash of humour. It's a very practical guide that helps you lead well in today's quickly changing world. Kulkarni combines behavioural science, insightful insights from Indian corporations, and lessons shaped by global disruption in his 18-chapter blueprint for transforming leadership. Quotes from the book that piqued me: 🌸 “Efficiency is about focusing on doing things right in the most resource-optimal way.” 🌸 “If you can’t scale up and deliver on time, we’ll have no choice but to move our orders elsewhere.” 🌸 “Results matter, but without strong processes, they will never be sustainable.” 🌸 “People who multitask all the time can’t filter out irrelevancy. They’re chronically distracted.” 🌸 “A one-hour increase in sleep raises productiv...

 Enemies to Lovers by M K Devidasan | Book Review "Enemies to Lovers" , a captivating drama that explores the complexities of love, ambition, and morality. It is  a riveting blend of personal conflict and corporate betrayal that immediately grabs you. Mohan Kapoor and Aarya Mehra are the main characters of the story. Aarya, a passionate social worker dedicated to uplifting the needy through her NGO. Mohan Kapoor, Kapoor Industries' charismatic CEO—powerful, successful, and concealing a dark secret. Their worlds collide at a charity event in Mumbai, where Aarya seeks funds for her noble cause. The way they get along? Electric. But just when it seems like love is blossoming, Aarya discovers the shocking truth: Mohan's company is involved in illegal land acquisitions, ruthlessly displacing poor families for profit. Aarya is forced to confront her values as a result of this revelation, which turns their blossoming romance on its head. Aarya is torn between her growing f...

 Inverse Paranoid: Turning Challenges into Opportunities by Raja Kumar | Book Review “Inverse Paranoid” by Raja Kumar challenges readers to see life’s adversities as opportunities, offering a transformative mindset rooted in resilience and gratitude.  This book presents a transformative perspective, encouraging readers to view life as working in their favour rather than against them. Raja Kumar’s practical insights, drawn from personal experiences, simplify complex ideas, making them accessible and relatable. Quotes from the book that piqued me: 💦“True luxuries are not about the size of your home but the size of your heart.” 💦"Don’t just steal the style, steal the thinking behind the style." 💦"Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment." With authenticity and actionable insights, Raja inspires us to embrace the belief that life always works for our growth and success. Raja has beautifully put together a concise guide to navigating the complexities ...

 The Moving of Mountains: The Remarkable Story of the Agastya International Foundation by Adhirath Sethi | Book Review   This book tells the inspiring story of the Agastya International Foundation, a movement that dared to view education as a treasure trove of ideas, happiness, and mystery rather than as a treadmill for exams. The journey unfolds like a blooming flower, sparking curiosity to learn more.  The reality hits hard, but it also helps us understand life better, teaching us to be ready for it and live without guilt. Though it's the story of building an institution, it feels more like a guide on ‘how to live a meaningful life’. Every page felt like it was speaking directly to my heart. The change in approach, the constant flow of new ideas, and the willingness to change direction when needed—all while staying focused on the goal of providing true education—made this institution what it is. I loved how much it teaches us, not just about education, but also about l...

 My Best Friend PART IV: The Final Blow by Siddharth Sen | Book Review "My Best Friend" , the best-selling series by Siddharth Sen, brings Riya Singh's gripping story to a thrilling and emotional conclusion.  Riya's journey as an honest army officer has been one of courage, heartbreak, and unwavering spirit. The mysteries and conspiracies revealed in previous volumes, particularly the Crimson Dagger arc, are skilfully connected in this final section.  This is impossible to put down thanks to the author's trademark short, incisive chapters. The emotional payoff is incredibly satisfying, despite the plot's daring twists that necessitate belief.  Character arcs come to their natural but unexpected climaxes, especially when the complex protagonist transforms from a victim into... well, that would be telling. The ending leaves just enough ambiguity for you to think about it long after you've finished reading it. The narrative is expertly steered by the author...

 MY BEST FRIEND Part III: Deadly Secrets by Siddharth Sen | Book Review A bestselling author's fourth instalment, "My Best Friend Part III: Deadly Secrets", is an engaging addition to the four-part series. Siddharth Sen is known for writing compelling stories. This book delves deeper into the life of an honest and brave army officer named Riya Singh. Riya Singh faces a web of intrigue and deception as she uncovers hidden truths that threaten not only her own life but also the lives of those she holds dear. With each page, readers are drawn into a gripping narrative filled with unexpected twists and the enduring power of friendship. Riya's journey takes an intense turn as shocking secrets about her past and present emerge, even though she has already encountered professional obstacles and emotional challenges in the previous sections. Will she ever be able to locate her closest companion? How does she then discover? Why does she experience this? It's difficult...

 3:40 AM From Heart To Head by Urja Joshi | Book Review “3:40 a.m.” is a poetic take on the constant tug of war between the head & the heart, a forever battle between logic & emotion. It takes the reader on a journey starting from “grieving” & ending on “acceptance”. Narrated by a fearless character, Zara, the book is a roller coaster of emotions ranging from desperation, emptiness, anxiety, denial, heartache, betrayal, and depression to letting it go, joy, love, union, art, hope, growth & so much more than one can imagine. A few of the verses that piqued me: 🩸 "The most            Beautiful place         To be in love        With our own self." I wonder, do we admire the first person we belong to, "Me"? I feel many ignore themselves in regard to their responsibilities and tasks they adhere to. The beautiful place to be loved the most is your own self. 🩸 "I...

 Naimisha - God's Own Story - The Middle Game : Moves & Counter Moves by Sesha | Book Review "Naimisha: God's Own Story – The Middle Game: Moves & Counter Moves" is a really cool book about the Mahabharata. t is the second instalment in a series that reimagines the Mahabharata, offering readers a fresh perspective on this ancient epic.  The narrative unfolds across two primary settings: Mathura/Dwarka and Hastinapur/Indraprastha, providing a comprehensive view of the events leading up to the Kurukshetra War.  In this gripping tale, Animish recounts pivotal moments in Hastinapur's history, set against the backdrop of the Kuru princes' graduation ceremony. s tensions simmer between the Pandavas and Kauravas, Animish's reflections offer a unique perspective on the brewing conflict that will eventually escalate into the Kurukshetra War.  The story delves into themes of destiny, power struggles, and the impact of individual actions on the course of hist...

 The Authenticity Protocol by Varun Agarwal | Book Review  A Refreshingly Honest Guide to Unmasking Your True Self  If you’ve ever felt like an impostor in your own life—chasing goals that don’t fulfil you, repeating self-sabotaging habits, or drowning in overthinking—"The Authenticity Protocol"  might be the wake-up call you’ve been waiting for. This isn’t another self-help book dripping with empty affirmations or lofty promises. Instead, it’s a gritty, practical manual for anyone ready to dissect "why" they’re stuck—and how to break free.    Structured into digestible chapters, the book tackles universal pain points: relationship patterns, career dissatisfaction, money anxieties, and the relentless trap of comparison. Each section peels back layers of behavior to expose their roots—whether childhood conditioning, societal pressures, or internalised fears. The chapter on “Self-Worth and Perfectionism” is particularly revelatory, challenging readers to conf...

 Pixels to Profits: A Systematic Deep Dive into the Creator Economy by Ankur Mehra | Book Review "Pixels to Profits" is an invaluable resource that demystifies the creator economy while highlighting its boundless opportunities. The book pinpoints the concept that when the creator creates content on a channel, they end up building a community of consumers that absorb their content.There are a multitude of other ways a creator can make money in the creator economy – over and above brand deals, through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, selling merchandise, building courses and many more. The creator economy comprises: ❤️ Creators ❤️ Channels ❤️ Collaborators ❤️ Commerce ❤️ Consumers Through the pages of the book, I could relive the moments when there was less social media and how connecting with people was new to us. Gradually, the pattern changed, and social media took its grasp, and in no time, most of the brands took the help of social media creators. Through this...

 The Netherworlds: Curse of Fate by Kaylin R. Boyd | Book Review A Mythological Tapestry of Rebellion and Romance  Kaylin R. Boyd’s " The Netherworlds: Curse of a Fate"   is a gripping fusion of divine intrigue, cross-pantheon alliances, and simmering romance, all woven into a tale that challenges the very threads of destiny. With a bold premise that pits gods against the Fates themselves, this book is a refreshing entry into the mythological fantasy genre, blending Greek and Norse lore with originality and flair.   The story centres on a nameless, imprisoned god—stripped of his divinity and trapped as a wish-granting Jinni in Tartarus—whose chance encounter with Hypnos, the Greek god of Dreams, sparks a daring escape. Meanwhile, Hypnos’ twin, Thanatos (Death), conspires with the Norse trickster Loki to overthrow the Fates, enlisting Eros, the god of Desire, in a quest to uncover a mysterious weapon.  Boyd masterfully juggles multiple plotlines, from the cl...

 Ram C/o Anandhi by Akhil P. Dharmajan | Book Review "Ram C/o Anandhi" , written by Akhil P in Malayalam and translated into English by Haritha C.K., begins as what appears to be a light-hearted romance but quickly delves into deeper emotional and social themes.  The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of contemporary societal issues, exploring the complexities of relationships and the struggles faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world. As the characters navigate their journeys, readers are invited to reflect on the broader implications of love, loss, and the quest for identity. It is about an aspirant filmmaker named Ram who moves from Alleppey to Chennai, where he meets the fierce and independent Anandhi. What begins as a dynamic between lovers and enemies evolves into a moving journey of love, friendship, and self-discovery. However, life has other plans, as it frequently does. Ram finds himself living with Bineesh, Kiran, Reshma, and Vetri, four strangers...

 The Shearings by Federico Iwan | Book Review An impressive new voice emerges with "The Shearings ", which weaves a complex tale of retribution, trauma, and justice. In " The Shearings" , we meet Charlotte Jones, a formidable American attorney whose personal tragedy—the traumatic kidnapping and death of her younger sister Mari decades earlier—shaped her professional commitment to justice. Iwan effortlessly weaves a rich tapestry that feels authentic in Charlotte's urban life in Washington, D.C., in the 1980s, as well as her rural upbringing in Floyd, Virginia. Nuanced treatment is given to characters with morally ambiguous roles as well. The author explores how circumstance, history, and choice interact to influence human behaviour rather than painting anyone as solely villainous. " The Shearings" evolves from a straightforward procedural to a thoughtful investigation of human nature as a result of this psychological realism. The author is aware that...