Sunday, May 31, 2026

Sinners of the Fallen Night by Niladri Shekhar Mitra

 Sinners of the Fallen Night by Niladri Shekhar Mitra


Sinners of the Fallen Night blends filthy realism and gloomy writing genres. The novel shifts between tales that are immediately uncomfortable and merciless, following people who are stuck in patterns of violence, desire, and desperation.

The story begins with the kidnapping of Ankita Sen, daughter of a rich industrialist. Her calm poise reminded Vikrant of someone very special.  No one could assume or ever think of this same person behind the whole kidnapping.

On the other hand, Rishi in dire need of his drugs kills the person who delivers it. The next day when he realises what he has done he feels bad for it. There he meets Poorna who is a whore, and she shares various anecdotes from her miserable life. This made me think how girls are trapped and used. Many a times, they agree readily to be used to protect themselves from starving.

The book vividly depicts how girls are used and they turning into heartless whores as per their pathetic circumstances.It vividly depicts the dark, filthy backdrops, seeming mindless at times but extremely scary.

I was intrigued to know about Ankita and how the cop, Satyajit and his assistant, Mayank would find about her. Will she be saved by the correct person or something more darker will evolve by the end of the book?

Quote from the book that enraged my anger:
“Look, I don’t care about your revenge,” the voice said. “I’m only in it for the money, that’s the only reason why I’ve helped you execute this whole thing. So, beat her, fuck her, do whatever you want to with her, but make the ransom video. Got it?” “Yup,” Vikrant said, after a moment or two. “And one more thing. Don’t kill her before the ransom is paid. Wait till the money comes in,” the voice said, and hung up."

Each chapter unfolds instances of tragedy that serve a deeper purpose amidst pain that is scattered all over. I was wondering what the real motive of the characters is. The backdrop of how these girls were sold at cheap prices or used after that was scary.

The author has well penned the emotional turmoil of characters. She vividly depicts the pain and turn of their grey shades into an empathetic, free character. They hardly feel any emotion after killing people.

Overall, it contains varied sins undertaken in the falling night. It is crimes that begin with the onset of night and turn into different perspectives with the dawn.

Purchase here.

Saturday, May 30, 2026

The Spanish Table - A romance novel by Yusuf Poonawala

The Spanish Table - A romance novel by Yusuf Poonawala 


 "The Spanish Table" is a suspense-filled romantic book. Set through the eyes of a businessman, Azam Shroff Agarwal. He plans a secret trip to Spain without telling his wife or seeking his children's consent. Each person in this house hides a secret that is unknown to anyone.

It is intriguing to read how he discloses his trip adventure to his family, and his wife, Miana, agrees to this non-refundable trip. There is hidden affection between parent and children. Every person knows about their love and care but never acknowledges it.

Karan, Azam's son who secretly wishes to write something engaging, purchases a notebook for his vacation. On the other hand, Samaira holds her mirror that secretly tells her that she is a star and to do her best.

On reaching Madrid, there is full fledged plan to roam around and experience the weather altogether. What was more exhilarating was their rental car, "Seat Leon". Miana took photographs for each flaw of the car, as she felt, "Trust was for amateurs. Proof was for professionals".

The author has meticulously penned it into four parts. Each part is a suspense filled with curiosity to know what will happen next. Each person's secret is unfolded one by one, making others in awe and finding it hard to absorb the facts. But their slow and steady move towards knowing each other and accepting each other as they are is palpable.

Overall, this is a book that makes you visit Spain in an unexpected manner."The Spanish Table" is a supense filled romantic book. Set through the eyes of a businessman, Azam Shroff Agarwal. He plans a secret trip to Spain without telling his wife or seeking his children's consent. Each person in this house hides a secret that is unknown to anyone.

It is intriguing to read how he disclose his trip adventure to his family and his wife, Miana agrees as this non-refundable trip. There is hidden affection of parent and children. Every person knows about their love and care but never acknowledged it.

Karan, Azam's son who secretly wishes to write something engaging, purchases a notebook for his vacation. On the other hand, Samaira holds her mirror that secretly tells her that she is a star and do her best.

On reaching Madrid, there is full fledged plan to roam around and experience the weather altogether. What was more exhilarating was their rental car, "Seat Leon". Miana took photographs for each flaw of the car as she felt: "Trust was for amateurs. Proof was for professionals".

The author has meticulously penned into four parts. Each part is a supense filled with curiosity to know what will happen next. Each person's secret is unfolded one by one making others in awe and hard to absorb the facts. But their slow and steady move towards knowing each other and accepting as they are is palpable.

Overall, this is a book that makes you visit Spain in an unexpected manner.

Purchase here.

Friday, May 29, 2026

The Bard in Love: Tagore and His Timeless Ladies by Prasun Roy , Joy Sengupta

 The Bard in Love: Tagore and His Timeless Ladies by Prasun Roy ,  Joy Sengupta



"Real friendship is like fluorescence; it shines better when everything has darkened."

"The Bard in Love" is an intimate and minute exploration of the life of Tagore's inner world. His life yearned for a true friend or a naughty buddy like him. He finds one in Kadambari. Same character she introduced in his writing as well.

It reveals the human heart beneath the literary genius. This book does not merely present Tagore as a Nobel laureate or cultural icon but gently reveals the emotional relations and feminine influences that shaped his creativity, loneliness, yearning and artistic development.

The emotional undercurrents in Tagore's poetry, letters, music and philosophy flow through women such as Kadambari Devi, Nalini, Mrinalini Devi and Victoria Ocampo. All these women were part of Tagore's life.

The refusal to sensationalise these relationships is what makes the book so effective. Instead, the narrative unfolds with tenderness, restraint and contemplation, enabling readers to witness how love, friendship, loss and emotional distance affected one of the greatest writers in history.

The writing is lyrical and absorbing, reflecting the emotional depth of Tagore’s own prose. By including letters, memories, and contextual information, the book adds warmth to Tagore, making him more human and less of an aloof genius. Thus, he comes across as a sensitive man desperately searching for a connection, purpose and beauty.

Overall, it is a heartwarming read.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters 

Thursday, May 28, 2026

Artificial Intelligence Made Simple and Practical by Satesh Khubchandani

 Artificial Intelligence Made Simple and Practical: A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Master AI, Save Time, and Get Better Results with 50+ Ready-to-Use Prompts and Workflows by Satesh Khubchandani


Every day I hear to use AI for little tasks of daily life. But hardly did I know how to give instructions to ChatGPT or anything else. But when I stumbled upon this book, I found many interesting facts about how to systematically provide instructions to an AI interface. Everything in this book is built on one simple system: Think clearly. Instruct properly. Build systems. Automate execution. 

The author emphasizes that the difference is structure. This is why prompt construction is not a technical skill. It is a thinking skill. The clearer you think, the better you instruct. The better you instruct, the better the output. 

In the beginning, I used AI like most people do. I asked random questions, expected perfect answers, and got inconsistent results. Sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn’t. It felt unpredictable. Then I realized something simple. AI was not inconsistent. I was. My inputs were in vain. But after applying the techniques provided in this book, I felt a drastic change in my skills.

The author has well penned the pros and cons of using AI properly. His systematic and illustrative diagrams make it easy for the beginner to understand and apply it in their daily usage.

Overall, it is an insightful read.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters 

Monday, May 25, 2026

Connecting The Cuts A DSP Arjun Thriller by Nachi

 Connecting The Cuts A DSP Arjun Thriller by Nachi


"Connecting the Cuts" by Nachi is a suspenseful thriller and the second book in the DSP Arjun Iyer series after "Death of a District Magistrate." The story begins with Arjun and Munu doing their routine combat practice when he receives a call to take over a murder case of a reputed industrialist in Chennai. Though he is not welcomed first by the commissioner of that area, later he surrenders to his excellency. 

His foundations about the case and the murder startled his colleagues and earned him respect at the scene too. He starts with the golden gear that is found at the spot that links him to the string of murders, each linked with symbolic elements that hint at deeper meanings.

As the person was killed by a arusal, a south Indian implement, a sickle used originally in harvesting and as a coconut cleaver and made numerous cuts. Each cut was linking to another murder. As the investigation unfolds, the case evolves into what is known as the Asura Serial Killer Case, adding a thematic layer to the narrative.

It seems like a series of murders across Chennai, each staged to mirror the way Hindu Gods slayed Asuras in mythology. I was intrigued in the way Arjun was effortlessly solving each riddle. There's something genuinely enjoyable about watching someone think the way he does his mind works differently, and you feel that in every scene. The team dynamic adds warmth to what could've easily been a cold, procedural read. Munu and Santosh in particular never feel like background characters they earn their place in every chapter.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book is Arjun's thought process. It is unconventional, often expressed through strange analogies that only his close team seems to understand. These moments add a touch of humor and personality, balancing the otherwise serious tone of the story. The dynamic between him and Commissioner Santosh also adds depth, with subtle hints of unspoken emotions beneath their professional relationship.

The author has meticulously blended the mythology with the slaying of asuras in the present-day scenario. His ease of writing the crime scene and depicting a smart and extremely capable officer solving is palpable. The connection between each cut and murders explained at the end is commendable.

Overall, it is a thrilling read.



Sunday, May 24, 2026

LAUGH WITH ME by Ruskin Bond

 LAUGH WITH ME by Ruskin Bond



Laughing is the best medicine. But we hardly laugh at ourselves. I hardly read any of Ruskin Bond's books. But today when I stumbled upon this book that revives me with laughter, or "How to Live with a Smile," I picked it up. "Laugh with Me" by Ruskin Bond is a colorful amalgamation of thoughts and laughter altogether.

He begins narrating how the cats laugh by sharing the anecdote of his pet cat, especially when no one is watching them. He shares how he overcame the guilt of being caught in the photo where the caption said, "THE DREADED MAN-EATER OF LANSDOWNE." He feels that his name was combined because of the article, but it appeared in the wrong manner. 

"It's easy to laugh at others—at their follies, their blunders, their pitfalls—but not so easy to laugh at oneself"—a quote from the book. He has narrated the funniest parts of his life and how it changed his perspective. One of the most hilarious ones was the one when he was caught with books stuffed in his pants. The first book that came out with whack was "AS YOU LIKE IT" by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE. The second book that came out was "GREAT EXPECTATIONS" by CHARLES DICKENS. The extreme comic part was a bonus whack.

What I liked the most was the colorful pages with no numbering on them. Each page shows a variety of depictions of life with a rainbow of colors. It indirectly depicts that life is full of ups and downs. Each person goes through a panel of highs and lows. This is another way of perceiving your failures and moving towards success. The vibrant illustrations serve as a reminder that every experience contributes to our growth, much like the characters in the story who navigate their own trials. This artistic approach not only enhances the reading experience but also encourages readers to embrace their journeys with optimism.

In one of his episodes, he shares about his story, "The Sensualist," which aroused an ire of certain moralities in the political hierarchy. He was arrested (but given bail) on a charge of "obscenity." The case was tried in Mumbai, where the complaint had been made, and he visited from Dehradun to Mumbai to attend the first hearing and plead guilty or not guilty. In the morning hours, when the train stopped at Vadodra, he had to lead a tug of war with the thief to save his spectacles. 

He has shared memorable books on humor that I began reading with. I still remember the characters TOM SAWYER, ALICE, and many more. His spectacular way of sharing his episodes with life-changing perspectives is commendable.

Overall, this is a book for all. I enjoyed the book and read it with my kids, who relished the colorful pages and the drawings. This made a smile on each one's face. The joy of sharing these stories created a special bond between us, fostering a love for reading that I hope will last a lifetime. Each turn of the page sparked our imaginations, leading to lively discussions about the adventures and lessons learned.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters #bookrecommendations


Thursday, May 21, 2026

Buildit: Building Blinkit in An Evolving India by Albinder Singh Dhindsa

 Buildit: Building Blinkit in An Evolving India by Albinder Singh Dhindsa


This book is not a how-to manual for overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship in India but a realistic picture of the "why" and "what could work." The author shares his experiences and lessons from his journey. He shares that true progress lies in the economic opportunity created by many and will be enabled by an understanding of how the world of technology and that of everyday operations in India merge. 

He shares that in a country like India, many people join scrupulous works at lower wages as they need work. Companies don't pay much as they don't feel you are a reliable or dependent employee. He observed that he needs to create opportunities of work for people. In his initial days of building Blinkit, intimidating workers to come and work for him was not an easy task. It took time to make them trust him.

With the increase in mobile usage, an increasing number of workers started working on delivery stations and Grofers. I get to know about gig workers who are heavily overindexed on the amount of income and flexible timings. This has proven that gig work is not just a way to get entry-level workers to earn slightly more and graduate to something else.

He shares that no one was ready to invest in their start-up. With the rapid increase in Flipkart and Snapdeal, their competition was increasing incredibly. Even when they used to count money after a long day, it was very tiring for him and his colleagues.

He pinpoints that pivots were made by different organizations and probably the real-world equivalent of a laboratory conducting an experiment. If one pays close attention, different organizations are probably the real reason that gave him an idea to boost his start-up.

What I liked the most was his line: "The customer is not a moron. She's your wife. It is meant to make businesses and marketers realize that the person they work for—the customer—is not some unrelatable and mythical creature but a real person making complicated choices.

His deep innovation of creating or opening up his facilities in lockdown was one of the ways the families could get their essentials. His hardcore initiative was for humanity but was not an easy task. To build in this chaotic environment was a bit frustrating and challenging too. He shares that it is the time to think differently about developing our cities and recognize the chain reaction of better outcomes, especially in the productivity of human capital.

I am deeply inspired by his consistent hard work and deep innovative skills. He laid a strong foundation that if you wish to create a change, then it will definitely happen. He has not only shared the positives but the negatives too along with the tricks to come out of these situations.

Overall, it is an inspiring read. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend this to all.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters 


Purchase here

Trauma Nation: Fighting India’s Silent Epidemic by Nishtha Lamba

 Trauma Nation: Fighting India’s Silent Epidemic by Nishtha Lamba


In Trauma Nation: Fighting India’s Silent Epidemic, Nishtha Lamba shows that trauma in India is not just personal—it is shared, passed down, and often unseen. She moves from individual experiences like anxiety and emotional numbness to larger historical events.

Using deeply personal stories from the survivors and personal anecdotes, the author analyzes how trauma is handed down generations like a cursed heirloom. She draws clear connections between the past, our bodies, and our behavior. She indirectly gives voice to what many feel but are unable to articulate.

The book brings a perfect balance between scientific understanding and a deeply human perspective, making these complex ideas feel real. She provides a path in dealing with mental issues and building a psychologically safer society.

Through stories of Gayatri and Amrita, the author shares that children typically confide in their mothers, most possibly within five years of sexual abuse. The general question that lingers in our mind is:

"How will my parents react? Will they blame me? Will they believe me over the abuser who is an adult and a more important person? Should I tell my mother, father, or sibling?"

Usually focusing on what saved her or him rather than what may have trapped her is one way of healing through such scenarios. The author shares that no matter what the age of the child might be, the parent-child bond can safeguard a child or put them at serious risk. 

I was spellbound to know that repression of memories is often the brain's response to protect us from emotions we are not ready to handle. Healing isn't a straightforward path. It includes both acceptance of what happened and a space to express anguish that lingers.

Overall, it is a book that stays with you long after one completes reading. I get to know how to handle trauma from the experiences of others. It is always best to trust yourself.


Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters 

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

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. 

Purchase here.


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. 

Purchase here

Sunday, May 17, 2026

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.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters #bookrecommedations 

Saturday, May 16, 2026

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.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters #Bookrecommendations

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

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. 

Purchase here.

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

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.

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters 

Sunday, May 3, 2026

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. 

Purchase here.

#RAMAYANA #A2ZChallenge2026 #Bookishlife2022_ #ReadTheNew 

The Great Indian Medico Masala by Dr Kumar Nirbhay

 The Great Indian Medico Masala by Dr Kumar Nirbhay


"The Great Indian Medico Masala" is a delightful prescription for wry, warm, and deeply human stories. These stories prove that medicine is not about treating diseases but about understanding people.

I liked all the stories, but the best stories were "The Lone Alcoholic", "The Lion Gets a Heart Attack", and "God is Watching Everything". I was amazed by the beginning quote of each chapter that provoked me to read more. The beautiful yet innovative hospital pictures added to its narrative.

What struck me the most was the SHRAVAN SYNDROME and four bachchas a day. It made me realise that many people only quit drinking during the Shravan month out of fear of Lord Shiva, as if He would not look at them again afterwards. What an irony!

The author brings to life the absurdities, emotions, and quiet truths of medical life just as we experience them. His simple yet engaging collection brings forward many insights altogether.

Overall, it is a humorous read. 

Purchase here.

#Bookishlife2022_ #OpinionMatters 

Friday, May 1, 2026

Whispers of the Buried Past by Harshali Singh

 Whispers of the Buried Past by Harshali Singh



"Secrets can be buried, like seeds, but rarely do they grow into trees that are a source of strength. Instead, they are burdens that destroy the one who guards them."

"Whispers of the Buried Past" is a haunting story of Dheeraj, who is the only heir of the Haveli. His quest to find what's behind the doors of the haveli is worth breathtaking. He is taken aback by the storm of secrets coming on him one over the other. He is unwillingly dragged into a past that seems to recognise him more intensely.

I was breath taken by the anger inherent in him when he saw the ghost or the hidden corpse. The raw anguish of a father getting short of any hopes increased the curiosity level of mine.

It presents guilt not only as an emotion but also almost as an eerie presence that moves through the story alongside the supernatural. 

I loved how it highlights that generational secrets, guilt, and past decisions come to haunt us in the present and the future. Besides being scary, it felt real and more humane. I loved the mystery, the suspense, the secrets of the past, and how intriguing the story was. 

The author has well penned the suspense level in the story, making the reader quest for more. I was thoroughly intrigued by the story throughout and was looking for the next move of the characters.

Overall, I liked the book, and it beautifully blends history, secrets, inner battles, family drama, and slow-burn horror.

Purchase 

#Bookishlife2022_ #A2ZChallenge2026 #OpinionMatters #ReadTheNew 


Rudraman: The Battle For Earth by Vishwas Mudagal

Rudraman: The Battle For Earth by Vishwas Mudagal "Rudraman" is a mythological book that made me dive into the era of 10000BC. It ...