People Connect – An Engagement Advantage by Preeti Khanolkar

 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 with empathy are the keys. Preeti is not here to lecture; rather, she is here to remind us of something that we frequently forget in the hustle and bustle: humans are, first and foremost, emotional beings. This is what truly sets it apart.

The structure is refreshingly straightforward. Because each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of employee engagement in the workplace, it is simple to skip chapters based on your needs. There are no long detours. There won't be a lot of information dumps, merely purposeful, clean storytelling.

It's like receiving a map with a small but important revelation at each stop. Empathy, trust, and the profound human need to be seen and heard are at the heart of People Connect. Preeti gently reminds us that without genuine human engagement, KPIs, surveys, and policies have little value. In an era when "remote" and "distant" are often used interchangeably, this message is particularly timely.

Overall, "People Connect serves as a thoughtful guide for aspiring HR professionals, encouraging them to lead with compassion and empathy. 

Purchase here.

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Her Life by Ratna Chandu

 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 the mystery of Riya’s experiences and the secrets she carries. There is a flicker of hope that never dies, mirroring the resilience and strength of many women, even as the novel delves into the gloom of injury and trauma. 

In addition to being a novel, HER LIFE is a profound reflection on the silent struggles that many women face and the quiet bravery required to survive them. This book is absolutely necessary to read for readers who are looking for emotionally charged fiction that does not shy away from the realities of life.

Purchase here.

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Independent India’s First Scandals that Rocked the Nation by Bhaswar Mukherjee

 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 the numerous ways in which their respective arcs influenced the political system and legislation that followed. 

Mukherjee's storytelling style is precise yet approachable. He doesn't shy away from talking about complicated financial details; however, he does so in a way that anyone, even if you don't like finance, can understand and follow. His knack for suspense keeps you hooked, turning each chapter like a courtroom drama. 

 His prose has a distinct flavour—clean, direct, and laced with the kind of urgency that mirrors the tension of the times. In Mukherjee’s hands, both Dalmia and Mundhra are more than mere villains. They are ambitious men with deeply flawed morals, driven by a desire for power and wealth. 

 The author manages to peel back layers, revealing both the charisma that once made them giants and the recklessness that led to their eventual disgrace. It's fascinating to see them not just as criminals but as characters who represent broader issues in corporate ethics.

Overall, "The Founding Fathers of Fraud" is a fascinating dive into the history of financial scandals in India. This book is both educational and thrilling due to the meticulous research and storytelling of the author, Bhaswar Mukherjee. 

Highly recommended for anyone who is interested in the history of corporations and greedy cautionary tales.

The Irresistible Manager - Managing, Leading and Thriving in a Disrupted World by Bhushan Kulkarni

 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 productivity more than a year of education.”

The book stands out for its relevance to the real world. Kulkarni's call to become a "catalyst" rather than a controller feels revolutionary yet practical in an era when AI is reshaping work and organisations are flattening hierarchies. Coaching, facilitation, and cultural stewardship are three often-overlooked skills that he emphasises, which reframes what great management looks like today.

With thoughtfully designed moments for contemplation, useful tools you can actually use, and real-life stories that truly resonate, each chapter reads like a personal workshop. Kulkarni teaches more than just task management. He gives you a lot of great advice on how to motivate your team, connect with them, and establish solid trust.

Overall, "Irresistible Manager" is a useful transformational guide that points the way to success and fulfilment. It also encourages the readers to make a meaningful impact in the world around them. Strongly recommended!

Purchase here. 

Enemies to Lovers by M K Devidasan

 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 feelings for Mohan and her commitment to her cause. As she grapples with this moral dilemma, she must decide whether to confront him about his company's actions or to walk away from the relationship entirely, risking the connection that felt so promising.

Instead of avoiding difficult topics like class inequality, environmental damage, and land exploitation, the author seamlessly incorporates them into the emotional arcs. Strong statements like "Adaptation doesn't mean we have to give up our principles" have a lasting impact in heated boardroom discussions as well.

The story is a must-read for lovers of meaningful romance because it blends social commentary and emotional storytelling with skill. This novel proves that true courage lies in choosing both love and integrity.

In general, "Enemies to Lovers" is a beautifully layered tale of love, personal development, and redemption. I loved reading their chemistry and would recommend this book to all book lovers.

Inverse Paranoid: Turning Challenges into Opportunities by Raja Kumar

 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 of professional & personal life.

It cuts through the noise and delivers practical, actionable advice that you can implement immediately. No complex jargon or theoretical frameworks here – just clear, relatable insights that resonate with the realities of the modern times.

The author's sincerity shines through, providing students, professionals, and anyone else who is feeling stuck or overwhelmed with practical advice. Whether you struggle with overthinking, procrastination, or self-doubt, this book provides actionable steps to turn struggle into strength. 

Strength is not merely an end goal but a journey of personal growth and resilience. The author encourages readers to embrace their challenges, viewing them as opportunities for learning and development, ultimately fostering a more positive mindset.

Overall, "Inverse Paranoid"  is more than just a way of thinking; it's a movement toward living with a purpose. It is a timely reminder that we are being prepared for greatness even in adversity. It is inspiring and transformative.

Purchase 

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The Moving of Mountains: The Remarkable Story of the Agastya International Foundation by Adhirath Sethi

 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 life.

As I went deeper into the book, my desire to visit the place grew stronger with every page. I hope that every passionate teacher reads this book and visits the institute. I long for the day when children don't have to worry about exams and results, which, sadly, can harm their health or even kill them, and instead can enjoy what they're learning, put it into practice, and feel proud to show what they've learnt.

This narrative is not presented by Sethi as a sterile chronology of events; rather, it is presented as an evolving human story filled with setbacks, triumphs, and epiphanies. This book stands out because it tells stories from a very personal point of view—stories about children discovering joy through experimentation, educators rethinking their roles, and a system slowly bending toward innovation.

Sethi’s prose is lucid, evocative, and remarkably engaging. He balances journalistic clarity with literary depth, making the book accessible to educators, policymakers, and general readers alike. His narrative voice is empathic, never preachy, and frequently introspective, prompting the reader to consider their own learning experiences. 

In conclusion, "The Moving of Mountains" is a call to rethink how we educate rather than just a history of one organisation's impact. It informs and motivates readers to take action with its compelling narrative, insightful reflections, and unwavering belief in every child's potential. 

This book has a message that stays with you long after you turn the last page, regardless of whether you are an educator, a social entrepreneur, or just someone who believes in the power of change.

Purchase 

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My Best Friend PART IV: The Final Blow by Siddharth Sen

 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, who maintains a fast pace while never losing sight of the storm that is brewing within his heroine. Not only does the plot change, but it also breaks apart, drawing readers into the gravity of Riya's choices. We are getting closer to a heartbreaking but ultimately liberating epilogue as each chapter peels back yet another layer of her pain and purpose.

Overall, this is more than just a story; it's a celebration of perseverance, loyalty, and the hard-earned light that emerges from even the most difficult situations. The last book in the series is a triumphant conclusion, one that lingers long after the last page and leaves you wondering… is this truly the end?

Purchase here. 

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MY BEST FRIEND Part III: Deadly Secrets by Siddharth Sen

 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 to put the book down because Siddharth does a great job of balancing suspense, action, and emotion. Riya's struggles, from career betrayals to confronting the personal pain of being an orphan in search of meaningful relationships, will make readers feel incredibly connected to her.

Sen's writing makes you feel as though you are on the characters' journey through recognition and eventual comprehension of their tragically complex and confusing narratives throughout the book. You are left with a refreshing sense of anticipation, circumstance, and numerous unanswered questions to resolve as you await the subsequent instalment, as the layers of suspense are peeled away.

The writing is straightforward yet powerful. There are no fancy words, just honest feelings and tension that keep you on the edge of your seat. In addition, the book hints at even more significant mysteries for the next chapter while providing answers to some significant concerns raised in the previous section.

Overall, the stakes are raised in this instalment, which makes readers eager for the conclusion. A must-read for fans of emotionally charged stories and military thrillers.

Purchase here.

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3:40 AM From Heart To Head by Urja Joshi

 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 live
    inside my head so much that
    I can rarely listen to my heart beating.
   I approach everything in life.  
    With logic so often 
     That now emotions feel
     Like a weakness. "
Occasionally, every person reasons out what they are doing. They find a logic behind every task they do. In this process, they forget to hear their heart and justify the emotions behind the task.

🩸"Before you decide to love again
     Make sure to heal & rest.    
     From your past
     Else, you will end up 
     Expecting them to heal
     Your wounds  
    Which were yours to heal all this time."
If hurt by the wrongdoings of someone or yourself, one should give time to heal your body rather than carrying the baggage of your guilt on someone else's shoulders. Every human has an expectation that he feels to satisfy in a relationship. He gives away if the baggage of guilt is loaded too much.

The author has beautifully blended the emotional turmoils and reality of life. The illustration of the verses pokes the reader to think about the situations when they try to pass on or tell someone else. The vivid yet sharp verses hit hard on your psyche.

Overall, it is an extremely enthralling collection of poems. Highly recommended!

Purchase here.

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Naimisha - God's Own Story - The Middle Game : Moves & Counter Moves by Sesha

 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 history through Animish's conversations with his friend Asareer. Rich in political intrigue, the story unfolds with Duryodhana's strategic manoeuvres to claim the Hastinapur throne, while the Pandavas emerge as rightful heirs.

 It's like watching a historical drama where everyone's got their own agenda, and Krishna's the ultimate chess player.  I loved how the author makes the characters feel like real people. he way Krishna's portrayed as both a god and a man is super interesting. 

 Overall, it's like watching a superhero movie, but with a lot more philosophy. If you're into epic stories with lots of twists and turns, this book is totally for you. It's a great way to learn about Indian mythology and get a new perspective on the Mahabharata.

Purchase here.

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The Authenticity Protocol by Varun Agarwal

 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 confront how their pursuit of flawlessness masks deeper insecurities. Meanwhile, sections on friendship dynamics and time anxiety offer actionable insights without sugarcoating the work required to change.  

The book’s strength lies in its refusal to coddle. There’s no toxic positivity here, just blunt truths: "You can’t fix what you don’t understand". Unlike typical self-help fare, it doesn’t peddle “10-step fixes” or demand radical overnight transformation. Instead, it advocates for slow, intentional self-auditing. The prose is concise and accessible, ideal for readers wary of dense jargon or rambling anecdotes. It’s also refreshingly judgment-free—the author acknowledges that self-destructive behaviours (like procrastination or people-pleasing) often stem from self-protection, not weakness.  

This book is tailor-made for the chronically self-aware yet perpetually stuck. If you’re tired of surface-level advice (“Just meditate!”) and crave a deeper dive into your psyche, "The Authenticity Protocol" delivers. It’s especially resonant for high achievers who feel hollow despite their success, or anyone exhausted by cycling through the same relational or career missteps.  

Overall, "The Authenticity Protocol" isn’t a quick fix—it’s a mirror. By prioritising understanding over action, it empowers readers to rebuild their lives from a place of clarity, not coercion. If you’re ready to trade performative self-improvement for unflinching self-awareness, this book is a worthy companion. Just don’t expect it to pat you on the back; expect it to hand you a flashlight and say, “Let’s dig.”  

Purchase The Authenticity Protocol here. 

Pixels to Profits: A Systematic Deep Dive into the Creator Economy by Ankur Mehra

 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 book, the author guides to explore the creator economy with a realistic approach. His use of simple, everyday words offers actionable insights to the reader. His attempts at making this concept simple, deconstructing and democratising the concept of media and the creator space are outstanding.

Overall, it is a handy book to begin with if anyone wishes to be a creator or an influencer. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the future of digital expression and entrepreneurship.

Purchase Pixels to Profits here.

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The Netherworlds: Curse of Fate by Kaylin R. Boyd

 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 cluttered chaos of Loki’s hoarded townhome to the existential struggles of gods grappling with autonomy. The Netherworlds themselves are richly imagined, offering a labyrinthine backdrop that merges underworld realms with a sense of claustrophobic entrapment.  

The ensemble cast shines, particularly the morally ambiguous Loki and Eros, whose burgeoning romance adds heat and vulnerability to their scheming. Their dynamic—chaos meets desire—is electric, balancing wit and tenderness against a backdrop of divine machinations. The lost god’s journey of self-discovery serves as an emotional anchor, his vulnerability contrasting starkly with the arrogance of seasoned deities like Thanatos, whose ruthless ambition drives the rebellion. Hypnos, often overshadowed in myth, emerges as a nuanced figure torn between loyalty to his brother and empathy for the Jinni’s plight.  

The novel’s greatest strength lies in its audacious blending of mythologies, avoiding cliché by focusing on lesser-tread figures (Hypnos, Thanatos) and cross-cultural pairings (Loki/Eros). The romantic subplot is integrated seamlessly, enhancing rather than overshadowing the central conflict. While the large cast and dual pantheons may initially overwhelm, Boyd’s deft characterisation ensures each god’s voice remains distinct. Some readers might crave more exploration of the Netherworlds’ mechanics, but the ambiguity serves the story’s enigmatic tone.  

Overall, "The Netherworlds: Curse of a Fate"  is a triumph for fans of mythic fantasy, offering a fresh take on divine rebellion with heart, humor, and high stakes. 

Purchase The Netherworlds here.

Purchase here. 

Ram C/o Anandhi by Akhil P. Dharmajan

 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, in a rented house. Dreams, regrets, fears, and unnoticed wounds fill each individual's backpack. There is also Anandhi, who is practical, ambitious, and emotionally elusive. Despite being mysterious, her presence is potent. Their tales begin to entangle, but not in a dramatic way, but gradually and naturally, just like in real life. 

This book stands out because of how life unfolds through a web of quiet moments and unspoken truths, not a big twist or a single love story. The plot thrives on emotional continuity rather than big surprises. The structure is quick but personal. Like a new room in the same house, each character arc opens up. Even though there were times when I wanted to stay for longer, especially when Malli was involved, the pacing is effective. 

Heart is all that this book has. It is messy, beautiful, and incomplete, but it speaks of human connection. It does not yell when it questions gender norms. It demonstrates how even strangers can make small but lasting changes to each other's lives. And perhaps most importantly, it serves as a reminder that everyone carries something about which they do not speak. 

The writing of Akhil is very visual. Intimate, raw, and minimalist, each chapter felt like a scene from a South Indian independent film. The narrative voice is straightforward. It's hard to put the book down because the story moves quickly through short chapters, similar to cuts in a movie. The tone is unforced, grounded, and familiar. 

The translation by Haritha maintains its authenticity, particularly in its emotional cadences. The writing of Dharmajan is intimate, cinematic, and sensitive. He builds scenes with a lot of subtext, whether they're about a fight, a memory, or a quiet meal. The dialogue feels natural, and the narrative moves effortlessly between humour and heartbreak. The translator, whose translation is not only accurate but also artistic, deserves credit.

In conclusion, it is an experience as well as a book. It gives marginalised people a voice, transforms a seemingly straightforward love story into a nuanced investigation of human connection, and strikes a balance between compelling plot and social commentary. Don't look at it by its cover or the genre it's in. One of the few books that makes you laugh, think, and feel all in one chapter is this one. A must-read for anyone who believes that the most unexpected people and places can lead to love.

Purchase Ram C/O Anandhi here.

This review is by Blogchatter Book Review Program.

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The Shearings by Federico Iwan

 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 before returning readers to the action, it is important to give them time to process the emotional beats. A reading experience that feels both exciting and important is created by this rhythmic approach.

Overall, "The Shearings" reveals a remarkable new crime writer who has the rare ability to write both a captivating mystery and a profound reflection on what it means to seek justice in a world that is unfair.

Purchase The Shearings here.

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