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Book Reviews

Panacea: A story about whisperers of rebellion

Panacea: A story about whisperers of rebellion

In our pursuit of freedom and living life on our own terms, the human spirit can become both exhilarated and challenged. The paths we choose in this quest are as diverse as the individuals themselves. While some embark on inspiring journeys, facing adversity head-on and conquering unimaginable obstacles, others find themselves restricted by circumstance or lacking the opportunities they deserve. It is in these moments that the road less taken, the one fraught with danger and uncertainty, presents itself as the only option. Yet, it is crucial to acknowledge that the choices made in such circumstances are not always a…
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Abhimanyu: The legendary young warrior

Abhimanyu: The legendary young warrior

As a Hindu growing up listening to India's two great and ancient rip-roaring epic tales, I have always been fascinated by each character. So how can anyone not be fascinated by the richness of the characters in Ramayana and Mahabharata? Mahabharata, especially, holds a special place in every Hindu's heart. The Pandavas, the Kauravas, and the war for "dharma" – each character and part of Mahabharata teaches a lesson.  Yudhishthira, Arjuna, Duryodhana, Karna, Draupadi, and Lord Sri Krishna are the first ones to cross anyone's mind when they think about Mahabharata, and rightfully so. But a young lad, who is…
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Anirudh Talwar: A tale of lonely love

Anirudh Talwar: A tale of lonely love

It is no secret that I have been a huge fan of Anushka's work for some time now. I have always loved her unique style of writing and the way she weaves together stories in a way that makes me feel as if I am right there, experiencing everything she describes first-hand. Her latest short novel, Anirudh Talwar, is no exception. I just finished reading it and cannot resist but pen down my thoughts on this fantastic author’s take To put it in one word, it is a fantastic book, a mix of thriller, mystery, romance, and tragedy that keeps…
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Review: Banged in Bangalore

Review: Banged in Bangalore

Love hits you in the most unpredictable ways and at an unexpected time. Even though the other person loves you silently, you are bound to feel the warmth, love, and affection. That’s the magical power of love. But it is often said that “what comes easy doesn’t stay long.” Seems like it applies to love and relationships. Very few people experience the pain of eternally waiting for a true love. When you are especially a love-lorn, one deception or wrong person is enough to shatter your trust in the authenticity and genuineness of relationships. Yet, god creates someone to ‘cushion’…
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Book Review: Taped – A hard found love

Book Review: Taped – A hard found love

By Navya D. Trust, respect, affection, honesty, transparency, and intimacy – both emotional and physical, are the least sought in any relationship, especially in a relationship that drives you bonkers over each other. Isn’t it insane that love knows no bounds, neither time nor distance and it transcends all boundaries just to experience the affection and feel the touch of your loved ones? Maybe not. Not all of us may find all these elements in our first love but when did love come easily to those who needed it so bad? Well, our ‘Tara’ goes through the same bitter journey…
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5 Books with witches and wizards

5 Books with witches and wizards

By Navya D. Are your kids…Nah.. are you a fan of stories with witches and wizards? We have come a long way from Harry Potter, the first story that evoked our interest in magic, witches, and wizards. For a Harry Potter fan, who is already brewing potions, casting spells, and vrooming the broomsticks, stories with witches and wizards brings a lot of joy. Even for someone, who isn’t still exposed to these magic tales, mysticism is something that doesn’t disappoint you. Jump into the costumes, get your snacks ready, and curl up on your sofa because the suggestions below are…
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Book Review: ‘Women Who Misbehave’

Book Review: ‘Women Who Misbehave’

By Shivika Nanda Don’t be shocked by the title when you first see it. This book is meant for all of us because everyone who reads will find a ‘misbehaving woman’ who they can relate to, who they love and adore for being an unapologetic being. This book is a collection of ten short stories where each of them paints a very diverse and vivid picture. Each of the landscapes revolves around a central character ‘women’ who are facing their own unique challenges in their domestic situations. The book has a universal appeal to it. Anyone and everyone who reads…
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Ten Years of Fifty Shades of Grey

Ten Years of Fifty Shades of Grey

By Shivika Nanda This book is a class apart for me. While it has got quite a few mixed reviews, the love and hatred for this novel is widely spread respectively. It’s a book meant for mature audiences. It is straightforward, unconventional and a little different from the usual romance novels out there. When college student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters someone who is handsome, brilliant and extremely intimidating. The unworldly Ana soon realises that she wants this man, and Grey admits he wants her too but on his own terms. When the couple…
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The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

By Shivika Nanda If you are looking for a book on Indian Mythology then this is by far the finest and the most outstanding one. The Palace of illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a rendition of the epic Mahabharata told from the perspective of Draupadi. It is a beautiful retelling of the timeless Indian epic with a very interesting modern twist. It is shaped very elegantly and thoughtfully. It dives deep into the female narratives which are absent in the voluminous tale of Mahabharata. The interesting relocation of the dismissed perspective of a woman is worth a read. The…
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Two Mark Manson Books You Care To Give A F*ck!

Two Mark Manson Books You Care To Give A F*ck!

By Shivika Nanda Save your precious little time mates because it’s time to start giving a f*CK! Yes, you read it right. This book is not about ‘not caring’ as the title suggests. On the contrary, the essential theme of the novel is about finding that one specific area that one wholeheartedly wants to prioritise in life. He wants people to feel comfortable about being indifferent to various other non-significant things. The ‘F’ series by Mark Manson is self-help masterpieces that take you on a roller coaster ride into your own brains compelling readers to change the basic paradigm humans…
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