The sins of the mother by Danielle Steele

​"The sins of the mother" by Danielle Steele - Family! 

This book is published by Bantam Press in 2012 and has 368 pages. 

Olivia Grayson, in her seventies, a timeless, ageless business woman runs a successful and profitable company selling affordable furniture. She has two sons, Philip and John, who work with her. Her two daughters Liz and Cassie are not in business. Being a successful businesswoman has cost Olivia the family time. Her mother and her husband had been her support systems and they have handled the family ably. 

Everything looks fine, what’s the problem? What’s the sin? How will the sin affect the children? Which mother has sinned?

The story has a lot of characters and all of them are her family, either by birth or by marriage. First born Liz is the unsure one who hasn’t achieved anything. She is always confused and lacks confidence. She also writes, but hasn’t sold more than a couple of stories. Two failed marriages and two daughters Sophie and Carol. Second child Philip is the CFO and heir apparent. His wife Amanda is a lawyer and aspires to become a judge. She is cold and almost devoid of emotions and wants Philip to become CFO for the status. Third child John is an artist and works for his mother because that was expected of him. He is the Head of creative design.  John’s wife Sarah is a college professor. Their son is Alex. Youngest Cassie is a music producer, extremely successful, lives in England and is estranged. She lives with rock star Danny Hell, ten years younger. Then there is Taylor, 28, school teacher. Andrew is Liz’s agent and he is British. Peter runs a law firm and looks after legal aspect of Olivia’s business. 

It’s a likable family. Like any family, there are disagreements, issues, problems, fights, support, love, chaos and fun. There are little twists and turns but they do not escalate. They don’t allow the regulated flow of the story to alter. This is the strong point and weak point at the same time. This story has a lot of potential to become dramatic, emotional, spicy but author prefers to keep the feel good mood intact. 

Well what’s the sin? The way story is written, there doesn’t seem to be any. 

Many a stories of Danielle Steele feature variety of persons, relationships, emotions etc. but one common thread is they are either well off, well to do or at least they have no money problems. 

Why did I read this book? Author. 

What I didn't like? No upheavals. 

What did I like? Feel good. 

Read if you like Danielle Steele stories. 

Careful what you wish for by Mahtab Narsimhan

​"Careful what you wish for" by Mahtab Narsimhan - Monkey’s paw!

This book is published by Orca book Pub in 2022 and has 45 pages. 

Eshana, a tenth grader, is bullied by Cara. Frustrated, she wishes she could do something, she wishes something happens. While thinking she stumbles on a website called I-WISH. What she wishes starts coming true.

Is it really happening or is she dreaming? What does she wish? Why her wishes come true? Why should one be careful?

This book appears to be a modern retelling of old story “Monkey’s paw”. The storyline is similar but the setting is modern. 

It’s a short story. You can read it quickly and be done with it. Doesn’t take much time. Doesn’t bore you. An young adult fiction. 

It’s a very straight forward story. A couple of more twists and a few more pages wouldn’t have hurt. 

Why did I read this book? Length. 

What I didn't like? Very straight forward story. 

What did I like? Length.

Recommend as a quick read.

Sinbad and the tomb of Alexander by Kevin Missal

​"Sinbad and the tomb of Alexander" by Kevin Missal - A defeat!

This book is published by Penguin Random House India in 2022 and has 336 pages. This is Book 2 of Sinbad series. 

Sinbad is ostracized from the Ninurta Guild, no longer a Seid (monster Hunter), just Sinbad the sailor (actually a pirate). Caliph Haroon Al-Rashid gives Sinbad an assignment. It’s to save a person who is searching for Tomb of Alexander the Great. Iblis recruits lame archdemon Sakhr to find the tomb and water of life.

Can Sinbad find the tomb? What is water of life? Why is Iblis interested? What price does Sinbad have to pay? Will Sinbad win?

Sinbad leads a crew consisting of Ashrafiya - the vampire, Best Friend - Seid Husayn, Pressa - the Chinese seer, Markus - a giant African warrior, Seid Idris whose husband Vampire Emir is arrested, his love and the Devil’s daughter - Safeena who is staying away from him. There are magical beings like Ifrit - a genie made out of fire and glass and clay, Nephilim - children of fallen angles, Draugr - the living dead, Gholum - Demon made of remains of humans raised by Rabbi.

Safeena doesn’t reciprocate Sinbad’s love. The guild wants to capture Safeena and use her as a weapon. The guild doesn’t like Caliph Harun Al-Rashid who has sent Sinbad on this mission. Iblis has recruited Sakhr. The stage is set. 

The story is full of magic, magical beings, Sinbad’s thinking on feet, his supreme confidence, his crew who is also his family. Although there are so many ingredients to make a fantastic story, author misses the bus. Note that the story is not bad, but it is not as good as it could have been. Author has lost the opportunity. 

Sinbad has his own fears. His greatest fear is of abandonment. He fears that one day his friends will abandon him and leave to pursue their life goals and he will be left all alone. 

Why did I read this book? Had read the first book. 

What I didn't like? Lost opportunity. 

What did I like? Humanness in Sinbad.

Read only if you plan to read the series, otherwise Avoid. 

The capital conspiracy by Neelabh Pratap Singh

​"The capital conspiracy" by Neelabh Pratap Singh -  Good start!

This book is published in 2022 and has 204 pages. This is ebook 1 of  ‘JV Solanki thrillers’. 

JV (Jai Veer) Solanki is a retired para commando. Jas Kaur heads and is forming a special unit of IB called Scorpion. Shanaya Gill, niece of Jas Kaur (IB) is spiriting a USB stick when she is kidnapped. She manages to pass the USB stick to her friend Amit Gupta before kidnapping.

Why is Jas Kaur’s niece kidnapped? Who kidnapped her? What’s On the USB stick? How does Jas know JV? What is Capital spring?

JV (Jai Veer) Solanki, 45, is enjoying his retired life in Hrishikesh. Although he has left soldering, has the soldier left him? Jas Kaur has formed scorpion to fight the enemies of India within, to do what regular agencies can’t do. She has a special connection with Shanaya. In her personal life, Jas has several relationships but she has a commitment issue and is still single. Shanaya is miffed with Jas. But she agrees to be her spy. Rehana is a Kashmiri agent. Her brother was martyred so, she preferred intelligence over cricket. Shanaya is a typical confused college going teenager. 

The narrative of the story is based on the recent events in India (Anti CAA protests, Shaheen Baugh etc.). The protests are instigated and fueled by leftists branding the current nationalist government as fascist. There is a bigger conspiracy and these protests and violence is only the beginning. Jas has her suspicion about certain student leaders and enlists Shanaya to spy for her. The story is interesting. It’s also not very long. It’s compact. Lot of gun fights, bloodshed and deaths. Although it’s the National conspiracy, this book concentrates on kidnapping and rescue of Shanaya. 

The other party is always one step ahead of Jas and JV. How? Obviously a traitor. However, the traitor is a little too obvious. So revelation of the identity doesn’t come as surprise. 

This book introduces JV Solanki. Patriot. Retired. Still in shape. Never shies away from action. A 45 year old hero. Little old for a protagonist. This is first book of the series. I would say it’s a good start. Three more books are already published. 

There are some grammatical errors and spelling mistakes in this book. Should have been rectified.

My collectible sentences from this book:

-He has to catch some zeds. 

-JV felt like his bones had turned to dust. 

Why did I read this book? Curiosity about new thriller series. 

What I didn't like? Poor concealment of traitor’s identity. 

What did I like? Compactness . 

Recommend reading. 

The setup by Falguni Kothari

​"The setup" by Falguni Kothari- Sudden death!

This book is published in 2021. 

Aditi, third generation American, is a pediatric intern. She idolizes her grandfather. One day he requests Aditi to “meet” three boys, grandchildren of his friends, a prospective match. Aditi doesn’t like the idea of ‘arranged marriage’ one bit, but agrees nevertheless as an exception because she can’t disappoint her Dadu. Her first date is Krishna Lal. He too is a reluctant participant on his granny’s request. The second date is a surprise. 

What happens at first date? Why is the second date a surprise? Will Aditi enjoy the date or will it be a torture? Is there something called arranged marriage in this age? Is there a love story where Aditi is not the protagonist?

This book has limited number of characters. Dadu (Dr. Madhav Gupta, retired neurosurgeon) moved from Florida to New York to stay with his son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter after death of his wife. Aditi adores her grandfather. They have a special bond. She is a competent doctor. Prachi is Aditi’s younger sister and a marketing executive for big pharma. Krishna, the funny guy, is a lawyer. He is tall, muscular, handsome and witty. Gulabo aunty runs the restaurant called ‘Gulabo’. Nani (Gayatri) is 81, looks 61 and acts like 21.

It’s a match of opposites. Marwari vegetarian girl and Punjabi carnivorous guy. One loves good life, one is immersed in career. One believes in the institute of marriage, one doesn’t believe in marriage. One brags, one doesn’t. One is extrovert, one is introvert. 

The story starts well. Develops nicely. Then it piques and it abruptly ends. It’s sudden death. Poof! It’s a tiny novel. Author could have used a few hundred more words for proper landing. This abrupt end leads to the biggest question remaining unanswered and relegated to a non issue. One believes in marriage and one doesn’t. How does it end?

It’s Novel by an author of Indian origin about Indians settled abroad. This is a new genre. It’s a decent Feel Good novel. 

My collectible sentence from the book:

I froze like a brainless Popsicle. 

Why did I read this book? Blurb. 

What did I like?  Overall story.  

What I didn't like? Sudden death. 

Recommend reading. 

Oh God! Let me be barren by Vilas Vare

​"Oh God! Let me be barren" by Vilas Vare - Unselfish service!

This book is published by Scion publications Pvt. Ltd. in 2022 and it has 160 pages. It's translated from Marathi toi English by Prof. V. G. Apte.

Sujata, in her forties, shapely, fit, good looking housewife, is barren. Her Husband Vijay is a leprocy technician who is later promoted as leprosy doctor. She and her husband have tried everything but, despite having no medical deficiencies, they are childless. Sujata is frustrated but Vijay is supportive. 

Will Sujata conceive? Will she become mother? Is her barrenness a curse or boon? Will she convert her barrenness into something more important?

Sujata‘s barrenness is seen as curse. She is kept away from pregnant women. She is treated like a pariah. 

She loves her husband so much that she refuses sperm donation. She’s good looking and childless. There are men who proposition her. Disgusting!

Vijay is born to help. Be it patients, marriage of colleague or curing leprosy. He is a real selfless, publicity shy, ernest and sacrificing person. He refuses proposal for second marriage because he loves his wife. He also encourages her to do good for the society. 

The couple is made for each other. They help even those who behaved badly with them. Vijay cures, resettles and integrates young leapers  in society. Sujata starts helping women in the shanty settlement near her house. Her social work is frowned upon by the neighbors. But she perseveres. She transforms the shanty settlement  and the lives of its occupants. 

The book has a few out of context things. Vijay’s brother is never mentioned in the book until we come towards end and suddenly he is shown as uncaring and unconcerned. He doesn’t reciprocate Vijay’s love. There was no need to even mention him. He was not needed for the story. Vijay doesn’t expect anything from anyone and does what he does as service to humanity. Sujata doesn’t understand this. But she does exactly the same, then why doesn’t she understand?

This book brings to the fore two issues in the society. First is the inhuman treatment of leapers by their family and society and need for their resettlement. There are many ashrams for leapers. Here they are rehabilitated but they are not integrated in society. Vijay cures them, rehabilitates them and integrates them, all at his own expense. His work is better than anyone else. Second issue is of wandering people who have no document to prove that they exist. Sujata works for them. Giving them identity, decent place to live, forming an economic group, arranging small capital for business and rehabilitating and integrating them in society. This is a great social service. Sujata’s barrenness is a blessing in disguises. It’s this barrenness that motivates her to do what she might not have done otherwise. 

Author Vilas Vare is known for writing books that address social issues and highlight the sorrows and suffering of the affected people. His books, however, are not dark or dystopian. They are realistic. That is his USP!

Translator has remained true to his role. He has translated what was written rather than trying to improve it. There is a list of Marathi words, that can’t be translated, and its meaning is given at the end to assist those who don’t know Marathi. 

Why did I read this book? Previous book by the author was good. 

What I didn't like? Few out of context things. 

What did I like? Positive approach. 

Recommend reading the original or the translation. 

Disclosure: Translator of this book is my father.

A dark queen rises by Ashok Banker

​"A dark queen rises" by Ashok Banker - Huge! 

This book is published by Simon and Schuster India in 2020 and has 656 pages. This is Book 2 of ‘Burnt empire saga’. 

Jarsun, husband of princess Akreen, exiled brother of then occupant of Burning throne Sha’ant, assassinates the king Akron and takes control of the kingdom. Akreen runs away to Reygar with her daughter, Krushita through red desert on a desert train led by Bulan. Triak, Prince of Arrgodi decides to disregard the peace treaty between Argodi and Mrashk nations, but is defeated by Mrashk king Vasurava. He joins King Jarsun, becomes his trusted lieutenant and usurps his fathers throne. King Gwan  and Queen Bensera perform a prayer to Stone God and are blessed with two young strapping twins. The girl is Krushni and the boy is Drishya. 

Main characters in this book are interesting. Tirak, the tyrant. He is half Urrkh. He undergoes multiple transformations. Meek boy too aggressive Prince to ruthless commander to defeated youth to idolizing follower to Urrkh to defeated and helpless captive to supremely confident warrior king. Jarsun is the scheming Lynchpin.  He wants to control Burnt empire and occupy burning throne. He never does anything without purpose. Krushita is Jarsun’s daughter. She is very powerful and can take control of minds. She hates her father for trying to kill here mother. She is guided by Sage Vessa. He is the second Lynchpin in the story who is working on multiple plots at the same time. Drishya is the eighth son of Vasurava and Curie. He is Tirak’s nephew and nemesis. Akreen is Krushita’s mother. Bulan is the master train of caravans. They are a Vanjani. Two persons and bodies merged together. 

The relationship between Jarsun and Tirak (father-in-law and son-in-law, disciple and guru, master and vassal, idol and bhakt, reverence and hate, player and pawn) is most curious. This relationship undergoes multiple upheavals. 

Story in the desert is very interesting with a journey of 20,000 miles that takes 7 years. It’s a microcosm of normal humans, Urrkh, Vanjani, undead warriors and creatures like shwan, desert dragon, dromads and buzzards accompanied by phenomena like fire storm and spinning dervishes. It’s an enticing world. However, the battle with the army of dead is Long drawn. It stretches too long. Similarly the kovadi (kabaddi) sport of Tirak takes a lot of pages. It’s a huge book. If such things were trimmed a little bit, the story would have become crisp. 

Bane’s repentance almost comes like an afterthought. It’s unconvincing. It’s like ‘Sau chuhe khake billi chali haj’. The final fight between Tirak and Drishya also turns out to be a non event.  

Book1 of this series ‘Upon a burning throne’ was published in 2019. This book followed quickly in 2020, but next book isn’t published for two years now. 

Mahabharata, any time any where, in any form, by anyone is always interesting. Here an accomplished author like Ashok choses to reimagine the epic in his unique way, targeted for western audience. He tweaks the story to add new twists. 

Why did I read this book? Author, Mahabharat. 

What I didn't like? Length. 

What did I like? The divergence from Mahabharat. Character of Krushita.  

Recommend reading only if you plan to read the series. 

The Waiter by Ajay Chowdhury

​"The Waiter" by Ajay Chowdhury - Justice served?

This book is published by Harvill Secker in 2021 and has 288 pages. This is Book 1 of Kamil Khan series. 

It’s sixtieth birthday party of successful businessman Rakesh Sharma in England. Rakesh declares in the party that he will sell his company and spend time with his young wife (Neha) doing charity. Neha finds Rakesh murdered after party and calls Saibal (Rakesh’s friend and caterer of the party) who is on his way back with his family. Kamil is son of Saibal’s friend from Calcutta. Kamil was one of the the waiters at that party. In his former life he was a sub inspector in Calcutta Police.

What is a sub inspector doing in England waiting tables? Why was Rakesh murdered? Whodunit?

There are various characters in this book. Rakesh, the millionaire who is murdered. He runs a very successful company called PinRak. Neha, his Secretary turned wife, half his age. She truly loves him. Pinky, first wife of Rakesh. She has a grudge against Neha. Arjun, grown up son of Rakesh and Pinky. He doesn’t like Neha as well. Tania Raazia, an upcoming Bollywood star who also is from Calcutta. Saibal, friend of Rakesh, restaurant owner and employer of Kamil. Maya, Saibal’s wife and head chef of the restaurant. Anjoli, daughter of Saibal and Maya and Kamil’s only friend in England. Neha is her best friend. Kamil, former Sub Inspector, Calcutta Police and current waiter at Saibal’s restaurant. His past haunts him. Rehman, former chief of police of Calcutta and Kamil’s father. Maliha, a lawyer and Kamil’s former fiancée. 

The difference of this book is that there are two stories. One story happens in England and another has happened few months ago in Calcutta that resulted in Kamil waiting tables. The stories are unfurled alternately for the readers. Is there a connection? Like many murder mysteries, the story is slow, systematic and methodical. Like many murder mysteries the murderer is revealed in the last 20 pages. Like many murder mysteries a small clue cleverly buried somewhere results in the epiphany to the detective. So what’s the USP? It’s the part of story after the murderer is revealed! Here author doesn’t take the beaten path. Readers can draw their own conclusion if the Justice was served! No pun intended.

Kamil’s journey is interesting. The idealistic former sub inspector loses everything, gains something, is about to lose that something and finally learns a life lesson.

I collected one sentence for my collection of interesting sentences:

His mustache looked like an emancipated caterpillar has curled up and died in despair on his upper lip. 

Story ends with numerous possibilities for Kamil. Which of them will come true? I think Imam and Anjoli are good prospects. Guess we will have to wait till I read  Book 2 titled “The cook” that’s already published.

Why did I read this book? Blurb.  

What did I like? The end. 

What I didn't like? Pace. 

Read if you love murder mysteries.

The 1st assassin by Mainak Dhar

​"The 1st assassin" by Mainak Dhar - Page turner!

This book is published in 2022 and has 304 pages.

Aadi Sen is most decorated officer of army and now intelligence (RAW). He is recovering from PTSD and is assigned a desk job. A terrorist called Bin Azam is plotting to kill American President when he visits India. A task force between Indian and American intelligence agencies is set up. It constitutes Sen (RAW), Salil, Ajay Pillai (IB), Amy Khan (US Secret service) and Donzel Bethune (CIA). 

Is Aadi comfortable with desk job? What is the plot? Who is behind it? What is the ultimate game? How far will they go?

The story quickly picks up speed and then maintains it. Something is happening all the time. Author keeps the excitement going and readers want to know what happens next. Indian intelligence establishment appears a little daft and a lot naïve. 

Aadi, who is a soldier, has to play an uncomfortable sleuth. He is not cut out for the cloak and dagger game but he is in it for his country. His rebellious nature and unconventional initiatives yield several breakthroughs. Maa is Aadi’s mother who raised him to be a soldier after she lost her husband in action. She knows Aadi and gives him good advise. Amy is part Indian origin second generation American. She has her challenges. She believes in Aadi and is impressed by him. Srini is Aadi’s boss who trusts Aadi and facilitates the bureaucracy. Donzel is the large CIA guy who is not trusted by Indian intelligence.

Why the title? Well, seven assassins enter India. The Indian intelligence establishment and the perpetrators neutralized six. That leaves the first assassin. The terrorists are always one step ahead of the intelligence. How? Is there a traitor? Author does well to conceal the identity of assassin but experienced readers can decipher it. The climax, however, falls short of the excitement expectations. 

This book captures the audience. Rather than reading at your time of leisure, you make time for it. It’s a good thriller, a page turner. It ends with a strong hint of a sequel. 

Why did I read this book? Author. New release. 

What I didn't like? Daft Indian intelligence. Subdued climax. 

What did I like? Everything else. 

A page turner. Recommend reading. 

Legal confidential by Ranjeev C. Dubey

​"Legal confidential" by Ranjeev C. Dubey -  World of law, or is it?

This book was published by Penguin books India  in 2015 and has 312 pages.

Ranjeev is a small time lawyer plying his trade in Teeshajari court. One day he joins Shanx and Deo in their law firm ‘City law’. Here begins his roller coaster ride in the world of law. 

Why does Ranjeev join City Law? Does he grow professionally? Does he become partner? How does a law firm work?

This is a story narrated by a lawyer in first person. It’s narrated not as pure story but a combination of story, drivel, thoughtful insights and philosophy. Readers become wise to the functioning of a law firm as the protagonist becomes worse with experience. From the outside, hotshot lawyers impress everyone. Their apparent comradery with their colleagues and partners and their working as a team impresses us. But in reality it’s a dog eats dog world. There is a cut throat competition. There is exploitation. There is politics. There is undercutting. 

Author doesn’t mince words in criticizing emergency, Indira Gandhi, politicians and bureaucrats. He also doesn’t hesitate in naming them. Author is severely critical of the lawyers, courts and Justice system. He is even cynical about their effectiveness and  the real Justice. 

The story is semi interesting. It’s Uninteresting because it’s a series of events, not really a homogeneous story. Author’s personal life is practically nonexistent in the story. His wife has very little role to play in the story.  It’s interesting because readers want to know if he leaves the law firm that exploited him, that didn’t recognize his efforts, that even undermined him, that didn’t give him what was rightfully his. How he leaves it and what happens next. Well at the end they are disappointed. The story ends at a cross road where anything can happen and readers don’t get their answer. Probably author has left the story at such a juncture to stretch reader’s curiosity for the sequel, but the sequel hasn’t come in last seven years. 

Author has good command over English and uses several anecdotes and quotable quotes. Here is my collection of quotable quotes from this book:

It was the ultimate triumph of optimism over common sense.

Freedom really is another word for nothing left to lose. 

You fought to kill and lived to fight. 

A clear intention is not the same thing as clear objective.

The gin was pregnant with longing. 

Deo was more thorough in his work than Mother Superior was in her moral policing. 

He mixed charm, wit and dollops of optimism, and served it to me in a cocktail called ‘Desire’. 

To choose to be a lawyer is to explore the sewers of human perversity. 

Why did I read this book? Blurb . 

What I didn't like? Semi interesting narration. 

What did I like? Quotable quotes. 

Read if the review interests you. 

The gift by Sourabh Mukherjee

​"The gift" by Sourabh Mukherjee - Predictable !

This e-book is published by Shrishti publishers and distributors in 2018 and has 28 pages. This is a book in ‘It’s all about love’ series. 

After his pregnant live-in girlfriend dumps Aarav, he travels to the ancestral home to complete his

first novel based on the life and diary entries of his uncle, who closed his extremely successful business to live a quiet life in the mountains. The housekeeper of ancestral house has ’found’ a kid. 

Why did the girlfriend dump him? Why did his uncle give up successful business? Who is the kid? What is the gift?

It’s a short story narrated in first person by the  protagonist, Aarav. More often than not, a short story becomes effective not because of the literary value but because of author succeeding to surprise the readers and delivering the unexpected. 

This story fails on that front. The story is predictable. Readers can easily guess what happens next and what will happen in the end. There are no twists, no surprises, nothing unexpected. 

So one wonders ‘what was that?’ Short Length of the book is actually a blessing. 

Why did I read this book? Length. 

What did I like? Length.

What I didn't like? Predictability.  

Give it a miss!

Once upon an IAS exam by K. Vijayakarthikeyan

​"Once upon an IAS exam" by K. Vijayakarthikeyan -Simplicity!

This book is published by Rupa Publications India in 2018 and has 142 pages. 

Book starts with Vishy failing IAS exam, shattering his dream. He makes two decisions. He takes admission in a coaching center and proposes his best friend Rithika. 

Will Vishy appear for the exam again? Will he pass? Will Rithika say yes? Will there be love or heart break between them?

Vishy is a confident, sarcastic, brilliant young man. He is madly in love with Rithika. But his sarcasm leads to his doubts. It appears as if he has trust deficit. Rithika is a young girl who trusts Vishy’s abilities. Rithika isn’t sure if she likes Vishy or loves him but doesn’t want to lose him. She works, is a good singer, lives in a hostel and is a model girl next door. Her parents are not even mentioned in the book. Her office colleagues conveniently come to Vishy’s rescue when he desperately needs help, twice. 

Story happens in year 2010. It’s fairly straight forward story. The surprises, twists and turns are all mild. Nothing hits you, nothing bamboozles you. Author has many opportunities to bring in emotions, drama, even a villain. But author steers clear. This gives an impression that probably the story is more fact than fiction. The book also doesn’t ‘bother’ the readers. 

This suspicion is bolstered by the fact that author is an IAS officer and was working as Commissioner, Coimbatore Municipal Corporation when this book was published. 

So, is it a love story or the story of IAS exam? Well, both. The book cover tells us as much. By writing a ‘small’ book, author has actually restricted himself from giving justice to both stories. 

Book cover is interesting. It shows a guy with a pile of books on his head and in one hand looking at a girl. 

Why did I read this book? Interesting title.

What did I like? Simplicity.

What I didn't like? Simplicity. 

Recommend as easy read. 

Bhoomija: Sita by Anand Neelakantan

​"Bhoomija: Sita" by Anand Neelakantan - It’s not her story!

This ebook is published by Westland in 2017 and has 24 pages. 

Although the name of this book is Bhoomija, it’s not the story of Sita. It’s about how Valmiki conceived Ramayan. The actual story in the book is of Krauncha birds that we all know. 

Valmiki composes a shloka spontaneously upon seeing the male Krauncha killed by a Nishada while mating. Here author diverges from the known story and gives it a twist. 

What is right and what is wrong? What’s right for one is wrong for other. In that case which is the one emotion that’s absolute? 

This twist given by the author is endearing and it gives a different dimension to Ramayana. Conception of Sita, though, could have been a little more elaborate. 

Why did I read this book? Author. Length. 

What I didn't like?  Conception of Sita.

What did I like? Everything else.  

Recommend reading. 

A special day by Sourabh Mukherjee

​"A special day" by Sourabh Mukherjee - Poignant!

This e-book is published by Shrishti publishers and distributors in 2018 and has 22 pages. This is a book in ‘It’s all about love’ series. 

Mike gets a deserved career enhancing opportunity of lifetime, but lets it go because he has to be in Goa on that day, a special day. 

Why does Mike decline? What’s the special day?

The story is delivered in first person by two characters Mike and David. Mike lets the Opportunity go. David has difficulty in remembering things. It’s a short, intense, poignant, emotional story that doesn’t let you go. The story never slacks. Although it’s somewhat predictable, it leaves you contemplating and hits you hard. 

Author deserves credit for such a good story. 

It’s a very small short story published as e-book. 

Why did I read this book? Size. 

What did I like? Everything. 

What I didn't like? Umm…

A must read. 

Lynchpin: The best laid schemes of mice and men by Siddharth Maheshwari

​"Lynchpin: The best laid schemes of mice and men" by Siddharth Maheshwari -  Action thriller!

This book is published by One point six technologies Pvt Ltd  in 2021 and has 290 pages. This is author’s debut novel. 

ATC Jaiprakash Mathur causes midair collision of two commercial aircrafts in Mumbai. A group of terrorists sabotages a surrender function of another group of terrorists resulting in death of the surrendering terrorists, two ministers and many others. Chief Justice of India is shot dead. Hindu Muslim riot is instigated in Meerut. Naxal violence erupts in Jharkhand as a Naxal leader is gunned down by people in police uniform. There are bomb attacks. There are Drone attacks in Calcutta.

What is happening? Why is it happening? What is the objective? Who is the Lynchpin?

These are events designed to cause socioeconomic distress in the country. Each one is precise. Either it disrupts social harmony or economic activity. 

Inspector Vikram Aditya Singh from Indian Police sees a link in these unrelated incidents. With the help of his friend DSP Ranbir Roy of IB he convinces the powers to be and they both head the task force. RAW, Army, IB, Police and other agencies collaborate. 

Author doesn’t spend time in travails. The action begins from the word go and doesn’t stop till the end. Although the story is fast paced and action packed, the plot is a little weak. Some of the things are too simple for a plot that has national and international consequences. Especially the recording of confession is naive. 

Author uses names of real life persons from different fields for the characters like Manoj Tiwari, Jagmohan Reddy, Ravindra Jain, Anirban Ghosh for the characters that have no connection to real life person. 

He calls a 3BHK apartment in Worli, modest. Phew! He has never stayed in Mumbai. In Mumbai it’s more than comfortable, lavish. The terrorists travel in black Range Rovers. How difficult is it to spot a Range Rover in India? Shouldn’t they have used a less conspicuous car?

Chapters are titled with colloquial phrases. The titles are Interesting and it’s a novelty. I collected a couple of new/out of the way words like soigné, petrichor. 

What about title? Lynchpin is a pin that keeps the wheel attached to the Axel. Looks like Lynchpin is a famous book name. I found at least six on Amazon. 

Why did I read this book? Cover. 

What I didn't like? Flaws as mentioned. 

What did I like? Action.

Recommend reading. 

The return by Erin Knightly

​"The return" by Erin Knightly - Wow!

This book is published by James Patterson’s BookShots (Penguin Random House UK) digital in 2016 and has 86 pages.  This is a book of Sunnybell series.  

Ashley had fallen for Mack head over heels when she was a teenager. But he broke her heart. Now Mack McLeroy is a professional Bull rider. Ashley Montoya wanted to become a barrel racer (a kind of obstacle horse racing) but couldn’t become professional barrel racer due to terminal illness of her mom. A Bull riding accident brings Mack back to Sunnybell for convalescing. They both need something from each other and it’s not love. They hate each other. 

What is it that Mack wants from Ashley? What does Ashley want from Mack? Will they help each other, kill each other or fall in love?

Book starts with a Bull ride. Man Vs beast. Beast wins! Man is injured badly. Professions of the lovers is the USP of the book. A very out of the way and interesting one. Author takes us to the heart of Texas with Bull riding, ranches, cowboys and horses. The tu-tu-main-main between the protagonist is endearing.  They are hurt, they hesitate in acknowledging the attraction and magnetic pull and shun or insult each other to overcompensate. 

Ashley is beautiful. She is still attracted towards him. She finds him sexy even when he is disheveled. She feels flutter in her stomach when he is around but she can’t forget how he has ditched her and broke her heart and wants to punish him for it. Mack has a reputation of a playboy but this girl still unsettles him. He regrets the way he treated her and considers her the prickliest girl in town. He is probably the most handsome Texan and is also good at heart.

It’s a love story. Being a BookShots book, it’s small and quick read. How to fit the love story in few pages? Do away with the lovers being introduced and attracted towards each other. They already know each other, rather hate each other, when the story starts. 

Author, Erin Knightly, has done a very good job. She has captured the emotions perfectly, be it lovers tiff, lust, love, attraction, insecurity, helplessness, and channeled them to make an effective story. Texan background gives it an exotic feel. Blurb of this book doesn’t do Justice to it. The blurb makes the story look shallow. In reality it’s sensuous. 

I found interesting English sentences worth mentioning in this book. They make the book exotic. Some of them are:

Frozen molasses made more progress than he had. 

Less fun than eatin’ dirt. 

Her sarcasm as thick as mud. 

As surely as a bear with a thorn in its butt. 

This book has little used words, used mainly in North America like Dang, stoked, britches, bronc, limber, daggone. It adds to the exoticism of the book. 

Why did I read this book? Goodreads rating.

What I didn't like? Umm….. 

What did I like? Everything

Definitely recommend reading. 

Sherlock Holmes in Japan by Vasudev Murthy

​"Sherlock Holmes in Japan" by Vasudev Murthy writing as Akira Yamashita- The lost years! 

This book is published by HarperCollins in 2014 and has 288 pages.

Everyone, including Watson, has presumed Sherlock dead. One day Watson gets a letter from Japan with a ticket and a short note from Sherlock. On the boat ride to Japan, his cabin partner is murdered. There is an attempt on Watson. Another murder.

Where will Sherlock meet Watson? What is he doing in Japan? What was he doing for last almost three years? Who is trying to stop from reaching Japan?

It’s a different kind of plot. Yakuza, Japanese equivalent of American mafia has penetrated Japanese foreign service and Sherlock is investigating. What’s different? One, there is hardly any investigation and deduction. Two, most of the story is narrated by a character after the events have happened. Three, a lot of time is spent in travel leaving less time for real detective work. 

They travel from England via Alexandria, Vladivostok,  Aden, Bombay, Calcutta, Angkor Vat, Saigon, Nagasaki, Kyoto, Tokyo. Something happens at each sojourn. Someone is on their trail, some agent of Dr. Moriarty. In Calcutta they meet Prof. Jagdish Chandra Bose. Sherlock develops interest in the Indian and Japanese music. 

This is a Sherlock Holmes novel written years after the original set of novels by Arthur Conan Doyle. This is Holmes’s adventure during ‘great hiatus’. It’s period between May 1891 and April 1894, between supposed death of Sherlock at Reichenbach Falls and his reappearance. 

Author doesn’t copy writing style of Arthur Conan Doyle but still retains similarities with it. Since the author is an Indian, a lot of story unnecessarily happens in India. It’s a slow story. Shaving a few pages off may have been good for it. 

Why did I read this book? Title, cover.

What I didn't like? Lack of detective work.

What did I like? Attention to detail. 

Sherlock Holmes fans can try it, not a must read for others. 

Rudra: The name of destroyer by Hem Raj Jat

​"Rudra: The name of destroyer" by Hem Raj Jat - Don’t bother!

This book is published by Notion Press in 2021 and has 210 pages. 

National Investigation Agency (NIA) agent Captain Shekhar has disappeared six years ago presumed dead. Officers Kevin, Nikhila, Anirudh convince Chief Dr. Kulshreshtha to launch a search mission and find Rudra. 

Who is Rudra? Is he Shekhar? Is he related to Dr. Kulshreshtha? What skills does he possess? Who does he destroy?

The story can at best be called absurd. It starts somewhat promisingly. But then it’s all a journey downhill. It’s narrated in flashback, mostly. The helicopter travels impossible distance. One man possesses power and skills so unique that he kills 40 terrorists armed with machine guns, using a spade. His memory goes and comes conveniently. No bullet touches him. His hands move faster than guns. He moves faster than guns. 

The English used in this book is bad. The grammar is bad. The construction of sentences are not in “appropriate English”. Some times there is a mix up of tense. In one sentence the place is mentioned as there, in next sentence it’s mentioned as here. 

There are continuity issues. e.g. They carried multiple missions to find him and then it says it’s her first time in the Himalayas. People from his previous life calling him Rudra instead of Shekhar. It’s torture. 

Book cover shows a blood covered, battle scarred man with matted hair, wearing Rudraksha sitting on a stone on a snow covered mountain holding something that emits smoke (chillum?). It’s good. 

Why did I read this book? Cover looked good. 

What did I like? Umm…..

What I didn't like? Almost everything. 

AVOID. 

Happy birthday by Danielle Steele

​"Happy birthday" by Danielle Steele - Feel good!

This book is published by Corgi in 2012 and has 416 pages. 

Valerie Wayett is 60. She is a wedding planner, TV Show host and a celebrity. Her daughter April is 30. She runs a restaurant. Jack Adams is a former NFL superstar and now a famous TV sportscaster. He is 50. They were all born on the same day albeit different years. Valerie and Jack dread to acknowledge their age. Mike is 34. He is a snobbish food critique. 

What happens on their birthday? Do their paths cross? How will it impact their lives?

Valerie although 60, looks at least 10 years younger thanks to her healthy lifestyle and plastic surgeon. She is refinement personified. There is no man in her life. On her sixtieth birthday a radio show host announces her true age. Valerie is distraught. Jack Adams is 50 but looks much younger and has a very active sex life with girl’s half his age or less. He is a football legend. His age is also announced on radio. He too is upset. April, Valerie’s daughter, is least bothered about her looks, despite being beautiful. She never applies makeup. There is no man in her life too. She runs a restaurant and is a workaholic. On her birthday she comes to know that she is pregnant. Result of a one night stand and birth control malfunction. She is fully busy with restaurant and can’t really afford to give time to the baby. Mike Steinmann gives April a lousy review. He is also father of April’s baby but doesn’t want any kids owing to parents who are always drunk and a brother who committed suicide. 

There is a crisis in the lives of all four of them. The crisis brings upheaval. The references and contexts change. The priorities undergo drastic transformation. It’s epiphany. 

The story is simple, like most of DS books. You know how it will end after reading first few chapters. Although it’s a feel good story, lack of twists or surprises makes it very predictable. But it’s still enjoyable. 

The strong point of this book is the characterization. They are very well thought. Their personality traits are adorable. Readers can relate to the characters.  You can’t help loving them, especially April: the non pretentious, lovely, workaholic, girl next door. 

As April runs a restaurant, there are a lot of scenes at the restaurant. You get to know names of a lot of American and European dishes. 

Title of the book is Happy Birthday. However, apart from the fact that three characters share the birthday and the story starts with their birthday, it has nothing to do with the story. 

Why did I read this book? Author. 

What I didn't like? Predictability. 

What did I like? Characterization. 

Recommend reading if you like feel good genre. 

AgniBaan: Guardians of the fire chamber by S. Venkatesh

​"AgniBaan: Guardians of the fire chamber" by S. Venkatesh - Mytho-thriller!

This book is published by TreeShade books in 2021 and has 336 pages. 

535 CE: A young guardian of the fire chamber from Egypt travels East to the land of holy rivers with Minew Satey, the Fire Arrow, to protect it from dark forces and to unite with its twin Agnibaan. 

Present day: Dhruv, an out of work Shauryas (Elite unit of Indian Army) special agent has a chance encounter with Megha, a nerdy historian. US Presidential elections are around the corner. The favorite is assassinated. A dastardly attack in Arunachal Pradesh kills 180 Indian soldiers. Australian, American and Japanese submarines are destroyed during Quad military exercise. There is an EMP attack on Delhi. 

Is China behind this? Why target India? Where is Agnibaan? Who is behind all this? Who is the head of dark order?

It’s a typical mytho-thriller where an object from past, that has immense powers, becomes the center of attraction in present times. There is a dark side, who has lot of resources, looking for it and then there are good guys, few but determined, who fight against all odds and save the world.  The object here is Agnibaan. He who controls the Agnibaan, will control the world. 

Identity of the chief of dark side is supposed to be the big secret and it’s revelation is supposed to give a jolt to the readers. However, the identity is poorly concealed here. I could identify the person by the end of the chapter in which the character is introduced.

There are loose ends too. What was the need to unite Fire Arrow with Agnibaan? Isn’t it more sensible to keep them separate and halve the risk of falling into wrong hands? Were Fire Arrow and Agnibaan in the fire chamber? What’s the outcome of American Presidential elections? Why is Agnibaan called so when there’s no baan (arrow) in it?

The climax happens in the jungles of Sunderban in Bengal. Dense jungle, heavy rains, nature’s fury, crocodile, Bengal Tigers, villains, cyclone, land-devouring sea etc. create a perfect backdrop for the action filled climax. Although long, the climax is good except the very end. You get wet, feel the attacking sea while reading. This climax is written for a movie. 

Why did I read this book? Title.

What I didn't like? The very end of climax, loose ends. 

What did I like? Rest of the climax. 

Recommend reading.