Bookish Indulgences: Blogchatter A to Z

Showing posts with label Blogchatter A to Z. Show all posts

30 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 30, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Zero Day (John Puller #1) by David Baldacci

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When a family is murdered in West Virginia, John Puller is sent to investigate it because of the military connection of the family. John arrives in the area and starts stirring up trouble along with the local homicide detective Samantha Cole. What was meant to be a simple murder investigation turns into something much more with different agencies watching. With the rising body counts, will John Puller be able to solve the case?

The plot was interesting. The author unveils the different layers of the plot in instalments in order to build up the tension in the story and the thrills for the reader. There are so many angles that the plot converges from that it is at times overwhelming. The other thing that I enjoyed about the book was the way that the author has described everything in details; from the characters to the setting to the plot elements. He discusses social issues with same fervor as he describes the military. This may be an issue for some readers, but I love details when delivered properly.

Now here’s my issue - I tried my best to get into the story with an open mind, but the parallels between the Jack Reacher and John Puller were uncanny. Physically big, good at throwing punches and travels light – these describe both Reacher and Puller! (If you didn’t catch the two names before, you should now!) Add to it the complicated father-son relationship and a brother who had an influential and important job that was cut short. Only thing that differentiates the two characters is that John Puller has PTSD and Jack Reacher doesn’t. Having read 23 Jack Reacher novels before picking this book up, it was really difficult for me to reign in my disappointment in John Puller because the author failed to develop the character’s individuality even with the different styles of narration.

Jack Reacher was first published way back in 1997 while John Puller was released in 2011. People who have not read Jack Reacher Series may be able to enjoy this book. But being a Jack Reacher fan, I do not think I can recommend this book to others.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

29 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 29, 2019 2

#BookReview :: You Belong To Me by Mary Higgins Clark

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Dr. Susan Chandler is a District Attorney turned Psychologist who hosts a radio show. When she invites people to engage about women who went missing and later on turned up dead, she has no idea the hornet’s nest she was stirring up. A caller provides information about a lady who went missing from a cruise ship; a chain reaction is set in motion. Soon there are bodies dropping in order to stop Susan from investigating further. But Susan is determined and realizes that she could be on the killers list next.

I found the character of Susan Chandler to be really interesting. To have served as a district attorney says a lot about her determination and talent. The fact that she then turned to Psychology and hosts a radio show, further intrigued me about her. It is an interesting set of skills that she has and as such it moulds her into a character that was just perfect for this case. Armed with knowledge of both the law and the human psyche, she embarks on a journey that not only tests her skills but also her grit.

Mary Higgins Clark has a style of storytelling that one can always depend upon; every time a book disappoints me, I go back to read one her books to get me out of the funk. This book was no exception. She has cleverly woven a story with drama, mystery and action that keeps the readers turn the pages right till the end. You Belong To Me offers up quite a few red herrings to the readers in order to keep them guessing. While I found every element of the book interesting, I have to say I was slightly disappointed by the antagonist’s motives. While the book rounds up well enough, the actual motive bothered me for a while. And that is the only reason that I am not rating this book a complete five stars.

If you like mysteries and haven’t read Mary Higgins Clark, you definitely should.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

27 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 27, 2019 1

#BookReview :: X (Kinsey Millhone #24) by Sue Grafton

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Set in the 1980s, Kinsey Millhone is the protagonist of Sue Grafton's Alphabet series. As a private investigator with a very practical outlook towards life, when she is approached by a lady to find her son, Kinsey feels that it would be an easy case and few easy bucks. Then she finds out that she was paid with marked bills and the client is nowhere to be found. At the same time, while trying to help a friend’s widow, Kinsey stumbles upon a coded list which leads her towards a sociopath. Maybe Kinsey has bitten off more than she can chew this time. Or maybe, Kinsey is the only one who can solve these two cases and come out on top.

What I enjoyed about this book was the multiple storylines that are followed in this story book. Aside from the two main cases demanding Kinsey’s attention, there is more going on in the book. It may feel like filling to some people, but I enjoyed that there were so many things going on in the book. It kept me involved along with Kinsey. Some had easy solutions and one needed more attention than the other. I kept asking myself if these were all somehow connected throughout and got the answer towards the end.

I liked the character of Kinsey quite a bit. There is no doubt that she is smart and intelligent – she had to be in order to be able to make a name for herself in the field that she had chosen for herself. She is also very practical and has a no-nonsense attitude that I liked. The way she observes rather than just seeing things reminded me of the conversation that Sherlock and Watson had in ‘A Scandal in Bohemia’.

Even with so many things running parallel, and with a protagonist like Kinsey Millhone, the book had a few places where I could feel it drag a bit. That coupled with a predictable ending, the book just missed the mark by a bit. But yes, I would certainly like to read more of this series and Kinsey Millhone.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

26 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 26, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Wonder by R.J. Palacio

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August “Auggie” Pullman was born with certain facial differences that needed a lot of surgery and yet his looks are not what ‘society’ would term as normal. He had been homeschooled by his mother for so long but it is time for him to step out of the cocoon and face the real world. With his family at his back and the option of leaving if he feels too uncomfortable, Auggie steps into the real world by enrolling in the 5th grade of Breecher Prep School. Navigating school life with all the rules and bullies is hard enough for every kid, but Auggie has it slightly harder because people cannot seem to get past his looks.

I hardly have the words for this book. It was hilarious and depressing at the same time. As a reader I could not help but FEEL the highs and lows right alongside Auggie. The book covers a lot of elements including friendship, sacrifices, the superficial outlook of the society and actual struggle to fit in.

Auggie is smart, he is witty and he is compassionate and yet all people see is the deformed face. Some kids are downright mean, some avoid him and some are pretend friends. Who do you think is the worst of the lot? That just makes you stop in your track and think. Sometimes it is best not to say anything when you have nothing nice to say. Sometimes looking away can hurt more than anything else. And being kind never hurts anyone but uplifts everyone around.

The book also offers different perspectives through other people around Auggie that helps the reader understand the struggle of people around Auggie as well. Some do shock you but some help the reader empathize and some help get to the core to understand the society’s reactions. And there are some that surprise you in a good way. But each perspective adds up to tell Auggie’s story without wavering.

This is one book that needs to be read multiple times by everybody to help remind us that being kind is so important in this unkind world.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

25 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 25, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Verdict of Twelve by Raymond Postgate

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In Verdict of the Twelve, author Raymond Postgate tell us about a murder case through the different participants at the trial.

The book is barely 250 pages long yet offers so much to its reader. On the face of it, the book deals with a murder case and the trial after. But the way the author has presented it to the readers makes it so much more than a murder case or a trial drama. In the first section of the book, the author takes his time in introducing each of the twelve jurors in detail with details about their lives and their backgrounds. That is when we realize the diversity of the society we live in. The second section of the book deals with the murder case and its representation in the trial. This is where the readers get to consider the nitty-gritties of the evidence and motives of the case. The final section of the book we see the jurors as they deliberate and reach a verdict. Will you agree with it or will the ending drive you crazy?

The wide variety of characters involved keeps the book interesting as the readers are kept on their toes by wondering how each piece of information is being received by each individual and how that would affect the big picture. The case itself was interesting as it could be seen as open and shut case and yet leave you wondering if there was something more going on. The author’s language and style of narration is in line with that of typical British crime classics and build up a feeling of nostalgia at the same time.

Have you ever considered how you can experience something that millions other have before you, yet the way you experience it is never exactly the same with any of them? Have you ever realized, while in a crowd, that you may have nothing in common with any of the others? Have you ever considered why you think the way you do or how you react to a situation can be a culmination of several past experiences or how you can build up prejudices or mistrust of some people or something without even realizing it? These are just some of the things that the book will compel you to think about long after you have turned the last page.

I recommend this book to all crime genre enthusiasts and to people who like books that highlight various aspects of human nature.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

24 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 24, 2019 1

#BookReview :: The Undoing Dance by Srividya Natarajan

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The Undoing Dance by Srivisya Natarajan tells us the story of not only Kalyani, but also the story of the Devadasi system that prevailed in our society.

Set in southern parts of India, post-independence, the book starts off with Kalyani’s story. Born into a family of devadasis, she is forced to cover up her lineage and marry into an influential family. Her day to day struggles caused by the conflict that she feels within herself. But how long can she keep her roots a secret? Will her inner turmoil be replicated in her real life as her secrets are threatened?

Traditionally, the devadasi system was revered. Girls were married to a deity and would then dedicate their lives to the temple and learn the religious rituals and rites attached to it. They would also learn and perform various cultural dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Oddissi as a part of their devotion. Yes, they would bear children of influential people and priests – but there was no stigma attached to their lifestyle. The sex was just an accepted part of their lifestyle and they were well respected and even revered for their status and talent. The problem arose when people stopped differentiating between devadasis and common prostitutes. People started exploiting the system to push girls into prostitution and once the Madras Devdasi Act was put in place, it was difficult for the system to survive as they lost the patronage of the wealthy and were financially crippled.

The book covers the predicament of the devadasi system. Some of the women in the system who were pushed into it were not happy living that lifestyle and that is a fact. But the fact is also that there were women who embraced this lifestyle and even thrived in it. They were free to explore their art and had a level of freedom and respect that the average women of that era usually did not command. They were welcomed at societal functions and their presence was considered as a good omen.

The author has done a good job of portraying different characters and their plights and intentions distinctly. For instance I could understand the conflicts that Kalyani felt and at the same time I could also understand the conflict that Kalyani’s mother-in-law felt. Yet there was a feeling of wrongness at places. Covering a system that has been highly debated about and an art form that can always be interpreted in different ways can be a daunting task. And the only negative aspect of the book is that at most places the author has ended up ‘telling’ us her point of view instead of ‘showing’ us the bigger picture.

The book had me feeling really involved at places and unsettled at others. I take the fact that the author managed to invoke such reactions through this book, for whatever reasons, as a good thing. I’d recommend this book to people who like to read fiction that closely reflect our reality and to those who have an interest in knowing more about the devadasis with a note to read it with an open mind.

Review Copy received from Juggernaut

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

23 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 23, 2019 0

#BookReview :: Travails with the Alien by Satyajit Ray

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I have been a huge fan of Satyajit Ray since I could read on my own and has been an influence on my reading habits ever since. Mystery has been my favourite genre because I started reading with Feluda. My interest in SciFi is primarily because of Professor Shonku while my interest in supernatural is mainly thanks to Tarinikhuro. Besides being a prolific author, Satyajit Ray was a talented screen writer, lyricist, music composer, graphic artist, calligrapher and one of the best filmmakers the world has ever seen.

‘Travails with the Alien’ is his journey of trying to get his script about a friendly alien to come alive on screen. Ray wrote the script of the film based loosely on his short story ‘Bonku Babur Bondhu’ hoping to make the-first-of-its-kind movie in India. Encouraged by the famous sci-fi author Arthur C. Clarke, Ray pitched his screenplay to Hollywood. What followed was described ‘ordeals with the alien’ by Ray himself. Numerous visits to US, UK and France and countless meetings and correspondence resulted in nothing. What was probably Ray’s most ambitious project, never took off.

Failures and disappointments are part of an artist’s life. And Ray knew that well enough. His project never seeing the light of the day was one thing, but seeing the plot similarities in E.T. and the physical appearance of the alien in Close Encounters of the Third Kind had uncanny resemblance to his sketches for The Alien. While the world welcomed, praised and applauded these two movies by Steven Spielberg about over a decade later, Ray’s own hopes of his project ever taking off was quashed forever. The resemblances and the similarities are well known by all Satyajit Ray fans and it bothers me still that no credit was ever given to him for it. This book brings forth the original script by Ray and his correspondence over the period as kind of a proof of the claims of the Ray fans.

Aside from the original script and the collection of correspondence the book also offers the translated version of ‘Bonku Babur Bondhu’, translation of an epic interview of the author on All India Radio and also traces the Maestro’s love and affinity for science fiction.

This book should be of interest to sci-fi lovers, film enthusiasts and is a must have for Satyajit Ray fans for being the bonanza that it is.

Review Copy received from Harper Collins India

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

22 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 22, 2019 0

#BookReview :: The Seven Year Dress by Paulette Mahurin

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I find the subject of holocaust to be fascinating and depressing at the same time. Every time I read a book that covers holocaust, whether real or fiction, it leaves me drained for days. The Seven Year Dress is the story of a real survivor presented in a fictional form.

The story starts with a young girl looking for accommodation and meeting Helen Stein. She feels that the questions asked by Helen were very personal and though she feels uncomfortable, she ends up renting from Helen. The readers then find out more about Helen who was born and brought up Germany in 1930s. She grew with love from her family and seeing hatred on the streets. This book is her journey from being a young carefree girl to ending up in Auschwitz.

The author has done an impeccable job of painting the character of Helen. The character grew through the book from a young soul to that of an old soul through her experiences. Through the protagonist, the author has painted a picture of what life was like for the common people and the Jews in that period. What I liked the best about the book was the part in Auschwitz that portrays human bonds at its rawest form. The fact that there was hope and kindness in a camp like that is unnerving yet optimistic.

The author has also explored the idea that sexuality is a part of one’s identity with the backdrop of the war. On one hand, we see Helen’s rollercoaster journey taking her to places she couldn’t have imagined all the while growing into and accepting her sexuality irrespective of the situations that she was in. On the other hand, through her best friend we see the plight of a gay man during the Nazi reign.

The title of the book, which originally confused me in the beginning, comes from a dress that Max had gifted Helen. What that dress stood for and why it meant so much to Helen will be clear once you read the book and in turn help you understand the title. All in all, this was an interesting book to read. Depressing at times, this only goes to show how capable an author Paulette Mahurin is, it is a heavy book that needs to be given time and attention.

Review Copy received from the Author

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

20 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 20, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Romanov by Nadine Brandes

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There had been so many theories and rumours about Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna while I was growing up that her story intrigued me. I was one of those who hoped beyond hope that she had escaped and the kid in me hoped that she ‘had a great adventure’ while being on the run. I have read quite a few articles on her before and this is the second fiction book that I have read based on her character.

“No amount of age, pride, or maturity could stop me from loving my papa with the heart of a little girl.” ― Nadine Brandes, Romanov

Romanov by Nadine Brandes follows the history of the Romanov family as they are taken hostage till their execution and then it takes on a fictional journey with Anastasia as she escapes the Bolsheviks. The first half of the book portrays the story and the different personalities of the Romanov family. The author has tried to stick to facts for most parts, but I found that she has painted the family with rose tinted colours to make them a bit more likeable to the readers. The family dynamics and the interpersonal relationships are developed well. Once the execution takes place and Anastasia manages to escape, the book takes on a complete fictional turn and the author introduces certain element of fantasy in it.

I liked the way the author has portrayed and developed the character of Anastasia. We see the rest of her family through her eye and her love for them is very evident. There are moments when she comes off a bit naïve, especially when it comes to her views about her father, yet she grows throughout the book. Love and betrayal, moments of happiness followed by hurt and anger, she emotes it all with sincerity.

There were moments in the book that were unbelievable even if we account for the fantastical element. That was the only thing about the book that put me off a bit. For instance, someone suffering from hemophilia cannot survive the type of injuries mentioned in the book and no amount of adrenaline can account for the stunts that Anastasia pulled off.

Overall, quite an enjoyable book while it lasted though I cannot guarantee that I would pick it up a second time.

Review Copy received from Netgalley

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

19 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 19, 2019 2

#BookReview :: The Quiche of Death (Agatha Raisin #1) by M.C. Beaton

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I was introduced to M.C. Beaton and her protagonist Agatha Raisin when I received a review copy of ‘The Blood of an Englishman (Agatha Raisin #17) from Hachette India couple of years back. I am slightly biased towards stories small town murder mysteries thank to my early love for Miss Marple and Agatha Christie’s story telling. I took to the series very quickly.

The Quiche of Death introduces M.C. Beaton’s protagonist to the world. Agatha Raisin is a middle aged lady who had a high flying career in public relations. After selling off her business and her flat in London, she decides to retire early to a quaint old town of Carsley in Cotswold. Life in the village of Carsley turns out to be something she hadn’t been prepared for. When the village prepares for a baking contest, Agatha Raisin, who hasn’t baked a single thing in her life, decides to enter the contest. Winning the contest would bring her popularity among her fellow neighbors. Or so she thought! When the contest judge keels over dead… she realizes that there was a secret ingredient in her Quiche – Poison!

There’s murder, there’s village drama and there’s a love interest for Agatha Raisin. This cozy mystery offers up a lot of funny and dramatic moments for its readers. The dynamics of the small village where everybody knows everybody else’s business was interesting to read about. The local gossip mills turns the investigation cycle all around and Agatha Raisin ends up solving the murder purely by luck – or that is what her friends believe.

What I found endearing was the fact that Agatha had a highly successful career in Public Relations. She can work wonders for her clients. But when it comes to her personal life, she is in hot soup with the villagers of Carsley. A woman who is used to the busy life of London and getting things done her way, she is at loss at building connections in the place she now calls home. As she investigates the case, not once does she pretend to be a qualified detective. Instead she stumbles upon clues and fumbles across facts of the case.

The plot itself is simple. The narrative, the characters, the setting and the delivery of information makes it interesting. It is a well balanced book where each aspect of the book plays an important role in shaping it up. A quick and witty read that you would want to read on a leisurely afternoon with a glass of ice tea.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

18 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 18, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Prithviraj Chauhan: The Emperor of Hearts by Anuja Chandramouli

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Prithviraj Chauhan is a historical name that I knew very little about before I picked up this book. Though yes, Prithviraj and Samyukta’s story is a well known one.

The book begins with a scene where the kingdom is anticipating the birth of a royal baby. Would it be an heir to the throne? And the author has us hooked from the word get go. We see how Prithviraj grows up and the education and training that he gets. The life lessons that he learns comes from all quarters and the inherent quality that he has of attracting people to him is undeniable from a young age. He is charismatic and he is brave. The tales of his heroic acts spread through the land and a young Samyukta falls in love with Prithviraj from those tales. Then they meet and Prithviraj is smitten at first glance. Little do they know that their lives are going to change forever… There is love and there is treachery and betrayal too.

I cannot say this enough and if you have read more than one of my reviews of Anuja’s books, this may feel a bit repetitive. But Anuja can sure tell a story in a way that entertains her readers to the fullest. The book tells us of the life of this charming and fascinating king who belonged to the Chahamana Dynasty. The book only covers his life, but also covered the lives of all those who influenced him in some way or the other. While the romance of Prithviraj and Samyukta plays a crucial role in the story, it is not the author’s main point of focus as she has told the whole story of the short but eventful life of Prithviraj Chauhan.

This book offers a good look into the political and cultural situation of the times and it wouldn’t surprise many readers to know that not much has changed in our core values when it comes down to it. Whether it’s the character of Someshvara, his father, or Karpuradevi – his mother or Kanchanadevi – his grandmother; through each of them, the author has painted a picture that is hard to overlook. And the influence that it had on Prithviraj is undeniable too. Karpuradevi made for an interesting character with shades of grey.

Overall, the book is a refreshing take on our history. It is both informative and entertaining. It is clear that the author has taken certain liberties at place, but for most parts she has stuck to historical facts. If you love historical fiction, do give this book a try!

Review Copy received from the Author

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

17 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 17, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Obsessed by Ruchi Kokcha

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Investigative journalist by profession, Avik is still struggling at a professional level. He thinks he has caught a break when millionaire Kalki Rajput is found murdered. He has a chance to work closely with the victim’s daughter Ananki who was a witness to the murder. Sounds, simple, right? Only Ananki is not all there and she is someone whom the world calls mad. Retrieving the information of what she has witnessed is tougher than what maybe Avik can handle.

There are two aspects of the book that I really liked. I loved the character portrayal of the two main characters – Avik and Ananki. Avik, as the protagonist, is someone we should be championing for. Yet the shades of grey in his character are so dark at places that it is difficult to really care for or about him. He has next to no care for anyone other than himself. The way he treats people is simply gross. And he has some demons of his own. Ananki on the other hand made more sense to me. Crazy as it sounds, the ‘mad’ character is more coherent and logical at times. It made me think of the world that we live in. Second is the psychological element of the book. It is what kept me turning the pages. From the way each character is portrayed to the theme of the plot, the psychological elements kept me going.

While the characters kept the book going, there was little else that gave me a reason to turn the pages. The narrative was tedious to keep up with and it got really boring mid-way. I had to put down the book at one point. It is only my weakness of not wanting to leave a book unfinished and the pull of Ananki that ultimately kept me going. The climax was quite a letdown as well.

Would I recommend this book? That is a difficult one to answer… Maybe if you can borrow it from a library or a friend, then yes. I wouldn’t recommend this one to be a part of your book buying binge at all.

Review Copy received from Harper Collins India

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

16 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 16, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

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I read this book between The Diary of Lena Mukhina by Lena Mukhina and my re-read of The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank. I also read all the three books in a span of seven to ten days. Needless to say, things got really depressing for me for a while. Each of these books is tough to read and they make you think and feel. Reading all three within that short span of time wasn’t a good idea at all.

In Number the Stars, Lois Lowery tells us the stories of a ten year old girl, Annemarie and her best friend Ellen set during the World War II. Annamarie lived in Copenhagen and Nazi soldiers marching through town was a common thing. The story continues to tell how Annamarie and her family help Ellen escape to Sweden in order to avoid the concentration camps.

The book is written for a younger audience and it is very evident in the author’s narrative style. The book is basically a look into the Second World War through the eyes of a ten year old. As the voice of Annemarie is clear and vibrant, it just makes it a tad bit more difficult for the readers when they realize the enormity of the situation that no ten year old should have to face. It is sad and hopeful at the same time because the combination of Annemarie’s bravery and innocence wins over the readers. It is so inspiring at places.

“Outside, she knew, the sky was speckled with stars. How could anyone number them one by one, as the psalm said? There were too many. The sky was too big.”

Unlike The Diary of a Young Girl, this book offers a happily ever after partly. So, the outlook of the book is more hopeful than anything else. Lois Lowry has painted pictures with her words as always. It was a complete pleasure to read this book.

I cannot stop wishing that I had read this book as a kid. I wonder what I would have taken away from the book if I had. Would I have caught on to the nuances of the story? Would I have been as horrified or would I be only curious about how the smell of cocaine numbs the dogs’ sense of smell? I recommend this book very highly – to both kids and adults.

If you have read this book both as a kid and as an adult, tell me the difference in your reception of the book.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

15 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 15, 2019 1

#BookReview :: My Father Drank My Lover and Other Stories by Ashok K. Banker

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Well, I have to admit that I was taken aback by the title of the book. It sounds a bit odd, doesn’t it? At the same time, it is sure to get your attention too.

There are 11 stories in the book where each story is different from the other. Yet they are connected by the bizarreness. The author touches upon different genres of mythology, religion, history, sci-fi, dystopia, fantasy and satire to bring together these 11 stories that simply blow your mind. The very first story of the book is the title story of ‘My Father Drank My Lover’ which combines historical and mythological elements and deals with the Ausras and Devas. After finishing each story my thoughts were that of how could the author possibly top this one. And each time I was taken by surprise. My favourite stories in the collection have to be Tongue and Blood Mangoes.

The USP of the book has to be the way the author has reflected the realities of our world through pure and tangible fiction. It is a book that will feed your mind with each story and then put it to work. None of the messages are delivered in an ‘in-your-face’ manner even though they are very clear. Stories that highlight the way our society looks at women made me smirk through them because it actually highlights the ridiculousness of the thought process of the society that we live in.

There is no doubt that Ashok Banker is a master story teller after delivering a number of best sellers. But through this book he reminds us how a master storyteller can tell a fantastical story that everyone can relate to if they are being honest.

An engrossing collection of stories that are must read for people who like meaningful stories and for people who appreciate a masterful story telling style. It will make you keep wanting for more.

Review Copy received from Pan Macmillan India

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

13 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 13, 2019 2

#BookReview :: The Lies of Locke Lamora (Gentleman Bastard #1) by Scott Lynch

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“There's no freedom quite like the freedom of being constantly underestimated.”

I picked up this book on recommendation from a very trusted source. Though it was a recommendation, all I was told about the book was that it was something that I may like. So, when I picked it up, I wasn’t completely sure what to expect from it.

Locke was mentored by ‘Thiefmaker’ very early in his life. But soon the pupil became more than what the mentor could handle and was passed onto ‘Father Chains’, a blind priest. Needless to say, Father Chains is not a mere priest but is the leader of ‘Gentleman Bastards’ group. This group operates in the underground as a group of menial thieves who earn their living mainly by pick pocketing. Capa Barsavi is the equivalent of a don in the criminal underworld of Camorr and the ‘Gentleman Bastards’ pay their tribute as the minor players that they are known to be. The thing is, they are not what they seem to be… especially under Locke’s leadership, they plan and execute intricate con jobs that are usually attributed to the ‘Thorn of Camorr’. But things are about to change as Capa Barsavi has a challenger in The Grey King, a man no one has seen and lived to tell the tale. With the underworld and the Secret Peace threatened, The Grey King threatens everything including the way of life in Camorr. Will the Thorn of Camorr be enough to stop The Grey King?

The world setting is the most fantastical thing about this book. The author has woven in fantasy into the setting with a number of threads. A lot of things are shown and some are only hinted at. I did wish that a little more of the fantasy elements were utilized in the plot and that probably is the only point I can nit-pick about in this book. Those elements that were introduced in the world setting were barely used leaving me to believe that maybe they have been set up for the rest of the series.

The characterizations were absolutely perfect. The main characters in the book are that of the group of Gentleman Bastards, Capa Barsavi and The Grey King. The author has developed these characters in a way to optimize their personalities and their roles in the story. I loved the characters of Locke and Jean the most, followed by Bug and The Grey King. The author has also put in some kick ass secondary characters whose part in the story line is undeniable. I would also like to take a moment to mention the representation of women in the book that’s the first in a series titled ‘Gentleman’ Bastards. Granted that they are not very well represented in the primary set of characters, but there are some secondary characters that are amazing and it is made clear that the city of Camorr is basically run by some very powerful and influential women.

The author language and narrative style is just perfect. Having finished the book, I cannot imagine it being told any other way. The narrative jumps timelines – one in the present, and another to give us the back stories of the important characters. The best part of the book is that Scott Lynch has managed to pack in some twists that even I could not predict! It is a complete roller-coaster with shifting allegiances and ever adjusting course of action.

I am looking forward to picking up the second in the series and in the meantime I would recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy, thrillers and are fans of a good story telling style.

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

12 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 12, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Kartikeya: The Destroyer's Son by Anuja Chandramouli

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Ganesha is, perhaps, the most venerated of the Gods around the world. Little idols make it into the living rooms of many in the faraway lands. Yet very few know of Kartikeya, Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva’s son. Anuja Chandramouli brings us the story of the overlooked son of the most powerful couple among the Gods. Born to vanquish the Asura King who had displaced Lord Indra from his throne, Kartikeya has a story that will tickle your imagination and definitely keep you entertained.

The circumstance of Kartikeya’s birth is relatively well-known. Soorapadma, Simhamukha and Taraka were the three sons of Maya who were wrecking havoc on heaven and earth. Shiva and Parvati had to come together at a tumultuous point of their lives to give birth to Kartikeya. He was then taken care of and nurtured to be able to fulfill his destiny. With his father’s power and temper, and Devasena by his side, Kartikeya led the army of Devas.

The thing that charms me the most about Anuja’s books is that she always manages to take our mythology and put them forward in a manner where Devas and Asuras both feel very human. This book is no exception. While demystifying Kartikeya’s story for her readers, Anuja also manages to give an insight into other characters in the story. For instance, Indra – the lord of the Lords, can be blinded by power and Shiva can be confused or that Kartikeya could be a seasoned and a cunning soldier while being merciful towards mortals.

Drawing upon some familiar and some not so familiar mythological stories, Anuja has beautifully woven a story about a handsome and powerful God, whose personality has some very contradictory traits. Which of those traits are truly him and which of them have been fabricated just to tell tales? You have to read Kartikeya to discover Anuja’s version of it.

The grandiose language that the author uses to narrate her stories could easily be taken as pretentious. Yet with the scale of the world her stories her set in or the characters that she paints for us, it is only natural for the language to be of that scale. As such I always find it familiar when I get back to reading one of her books.

If you are a fan of Indian Mythology and happen to have an open and imaginative mind, do pick up any of Anuja’s books. She always delivers on hours of entertainment.

Review Copy received from the Author

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

11 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 11, 2019 1

#BookReview :: Jahangir : An Intimate Portrait of a Great Mughal by Parvati Sharma

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Jahangir is one of the Mughal Emperors who has probably been denied the spotlight in history books. Akbar, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb are more talked about than the rest of them put together. He is mostly remembered as the son of Akbar and father to Shah Jahan and his expensive taste in art is also noted. Even his wife, Nur Jahan, has her own space in history as the de-facto ruler of the empire in his stead. Probably his only claim to fame in history is about his relationship with ‘Anarkali’ even though there is very little evidence of it. Through this book author Parvati Sharma tells us about the emperor who ruled for 22 years.

The book is divided into seven parts starting from his Accession to the throne and covering every aspect of his life. Through Parvati Sharma, we see the sides of Jahangir that are not covered in history. For instance, did you know that Jahangir had a flair for writing? He could describe a war and a flower with the same enthusiasm. He had an open mind when it came to religion and some believe that growing up in Akbar’s court and having a Rajput mother enabled him to have a curious mind when it came down to religion and superstition. His interest lay in verifying before believing and it makes me think that he had a scientific mind. Yet his love for fine art was well known. Much of the art and finery that is attributed to the Mughal Empire had been commissioned and collected by Jahangir.

Nur Jahan and his relationship with her is ever a mystery. Some records show that being the daughter of Akbar’s Grand Vizier, Mehr-un-nisa a.ka. Nur Jahan had a brilliant mind and interest in the affairs of the state. With Jahangir’s addiction to liquor and opium, Nur Jahan found it easy to manipulate the emperor and rule in his stead. Other accounts paint a different picture where Nur Jahan and Jahangir were partners. Jahangir admired her knowledge, respected her opinions and as a result involved her in the state of affairs.

I found the book to be very informative and appreciated the selected bibliography that the author has provided at the end. The maps and images offered helped the reading experience. The USP of the book is that the author narrates the story of an emperor and follows up with examples of small anecdotes that prove the point that she is trying to make. It made the read a bit interesting to a person like me who isn’t into nonfiction as much.

Review Copy received from Juggernaut

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

10 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 10, 2019 2

#BookReview :: In Hot Blood: The Nanavati Case That Shook India by Bachi Karkaria

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I am afraid that this is one of those rare cases where I have watched the movie before reading the book. But then Akshay Kumar starrer ‘Rustom’ released in 2016, before the release of this book, if I am not mistaken.

I had to try and remove my impressions from the movie when I started with this book. Before reading the book or even watching the movie, all I knew about this case was that it was the last case where a jury trial had taken place.

Sylvia Nanavati’s confession of an affair with Prem Ahuja to her husband was followed by the murder of Prem at the hands of Kawas Nanavati. When the case was brought to trial, the jury returned with a ‘not guilty’ verdict which was then dismissed by the court. The trial had caused a media frenzy not only due to the status of the defendant or the nature of the case but also because of quite a few of whos-who of the country at the time were known to be friends with Kawas Nanavati. He was jailed after a fresh hearing but managed to get a pardon after serving his sentence for three years.

The book reminded me of how manipulative humans can be. What was a murder case was turned into about loyalty, patriotism and about community. At the same time, we are also reminded of the power of both our judiciary system and our media. On one hand, we see the media frenzy influencing people’s opinion and judgment and on the other hand, we see the judiciary system taking the matter into its own hands. But in the end, the influential people prevail by getting a pardon for Nanavati and enabling them to move abroad and settle down as a ‘normal’ family. What I cannot get over is the many faces of both Sylvia and Kawas. First, she has an extramarital affair with Prem and then she stands by her husband during the trial. Kawas, on the other hand, murders his wife’s paramour and goes back to living a ‘normal’ life with her.

The author has narrated the events in a simple language while creating a setting that comes alive through the pages. What was it like in India in 1950s, just after our independence? From the communal situation to the constitutional changes that India was going through at the time was captured well. This particular case turned out to be one of the last cases to be tried by a jury as the government abolished jury trials soon after.

The book does provide details and insights that google or Rustom doesn’t. But end of the day, even with all the sensationalism attached to it, the book doesn’t really make for a very fascinating read. So, would I recommend it? Yes, if you want to know more about the case but a very emphatic no, in case you are hoping for a distraction or entertainment.

Review Copy received from Juggernaut

This post is a part of A to Z Challenge and BlogchatterA2Z

09 April, 2019

Debdatta Dasgupta April 09, 2019 4

#BookReview :: Hush a Bye Baby by Deepanjana Pal

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Dr. Nandita Rai is a successful gynecologist, whose client list has some of the biggest names of this country. She is well known for speaking out about social causes and bringing the spotlight on issues many prefer to keep buried. Everyone wants to know her personally or be like her. That is until the police get a tip and raid her clinic leading to many questions. Does Nandita, the modern feminist actually enable female feticide? Good thing that Reshma is handling the investigation in this case.

What I expected when I picked up this book was a healthy dose of drama, a section for preaching about social issues and maybe a pinch of thrill. But I was pleasantly surprised and I genuinely enjoyed reading a thriller by an Indian author after a long time.

Reshma Gabuji is an interesting character. A female sub-inspector with a curious mind and witty nature won me over. I liked how she worked the case and would certainly want this book to be just the first in the series for Reshma Gabuji. Nandita Rai is a complex character in certain ways because there were moments that made me question her character. I wished for a little more insight into her personality. The supporting characters failed to make any sort of impression on me. Somehow, even while contributing to the story, they came off as these grey characters that really deserve to be in the shadows.

The book has a steady pace wherein the author has expertly scattered clues for readers to pick up on them. That sure kept the pages turning and it built up the plot to the climax nicely. That’s where the book fell a bit flat as everything else in the book had indicated towards an explosive climax. But the final reveal fell a bit short in execution leaving me feeling slightly disappointed. I also have to mention that the author has delivered a book that talk about a number of social issues without being preachy about it. They are beautifully weaved into the story.

Overall, this book provided me a pleasant surprise in between the covers and I will be keeping my eye out for the author’s books in the future.