Book Review: The Paradise Conflict by Abhishek Ghosh | Dystopian Fiction

Book Review

The Paradise Conflict by Abhishek Ghosh

The Paradise Conflict by Abhishek Ghosh

Author: Abhishek Ghosh

ASIN: B08KSHFTCV

Genre: Dystopian Fiction

Length: 150 Pages

Publisher: Novel Nuggets Publishers (5^th October 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/37uMAWL

About the author:

Abhishek Ghosh

Instagram: @abhishekghosh_write_mania

Facebook: @abhishek.ghosh.376

Twitter: @Abhishe67403471

REVIEW

Summary of the book

The Paradise Conflict is a dystopian fiction which is set in a world where freshwater is scarce, air is filled with hazardous pollutants, everything is covered with UV-protection sheets; needless to say, masks are essential; in addition to the misery of this world, the remainder of the population and infrastructure is administered by the Imperial regime. The surviving water bodies are heavily guarded by Imperial outposts and common people are being killed by them, for the inequality this regime is entitled to. The comfort of living and surviving is only meant for the governor and his Imperial servants, not the common people.

This situation cause the rise of a group of people who choose to stand against the regime, the Rebels. This first book in the series portrays a battle between the Rebels and Imperials with a set of characters that are interconnected in a way. The Rebels are looking for ‘the lost paradise’, which is thought to be thriving with all the natural resources and free of any pollutants, hidden somewhere and the wicked tyrant that governor is, makes every effort to stop the rebel activities.

This oppression, revolt, and a ray of hope form the foundation for the story. The book consists of many action-packed segments that are quite entertaining. The main characters are very well-developed considering their arcs, inclination, actions, and the choices they make throughout the book. The book portrays dictatorship, governor’s never-ending greed for power and comforts, which reflects in his corrupt and hollow empire as a huge disparity among subjects, and destruction. Apart from that, there are interesting elements like treachery and many surprises. 

My Opinion

I liked the story and the message the book delivered through my personal reading of it. The setting and the characters are formidable. Gayatri – the Rebel leader, Judy – the second-in-command, Mitra – a bounty hunter, and Arjun – the Imperial admiral were some of the memorable characters I enjoyed reading. The plot involving ‘the lost paradise’ was really interesting to follow. However, the thing which bothered me throughout the book was – plain and naïve writing style. It was like, the bigger picture is there – the mission, the goal, two parties, but it lacked the minor yet important details. Also, it had the problem of ‘tell, don’t show’. There were ample amount of unnecessary dialogues that could have been elaborated in expositions. Whereas, I expected more of the dystopian world, an enhanced and detailed version of this.

Happy Reading!

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Book Review: Apophis by Raj Anand | Science-Fiction

 

Book Review

Apophis: Into the Folds of Darkness by Raj Anand

Apophis by Raj Anand

Author: Raj Anand

ISBN: 978-1648508981

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: 456 Pages

Publisher: Notion Press (24^th September 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/36KfD8p

About the author:

Savinder Raj Anand is a writer, architect, professor, father, and a long-distance runner with a wanderlust to explore and write stories that traverse across diverse cultures.

Raj Anand

Instagram:@rajanandbooks

Facebook: @rajanandbooks

Website: https://www.rajanandbooks.com/index.php

REVIEW

Apophis by Raj Anand is a Science-Fiction book that brings several disciplines together including, science, philosophy, history, astrophysics, and shamanism to fight off the apocalyptic danger posed by this asteroid with 2.45 kilometers diameter and weight more than 360,000 metric tons, moving straight towards the earth. The book is highly educative in terms of facts and information regarding great philosophers and historical events from across various civilizations; very conveniently embedded in the plot.

The most interesting aspect of the book is the central conflict that is between two organizations – the Crypteia, and the lineage of Lazarok (who are committed to protecting the Kleos) and the Kleos – five sentient beings (9-year-old reincarnations of ancient philosophers). The first half of the book depicts how Lazarok shields the Kleos ever since their birth and brings them together on their ninth birthday. The second half portrays how the Kleos, collectively set out on a journey to the mission they are destined to accomplish. They prepare themselves for the intergalactic war which is imminent.

The very conception and the elements the author has involved in the book make it stand out from other books in the Sci-Fi genre. The book combines a lot of contemporary and historical facts to form a large network that justifies scores of unusual events of the past, which makes it seem realistic. There are some vivid, action-packed scenes and other mind-blowing theories to give you an unforgettable experience. The author has incorporated representation from different countries, their culture, myths, legends, and philosophies.

The book starts and ends with the same situation, that is the threat is closing in on the earth and there is a single ray of hope – the Kleos with their shamanic powers and great wisdom. The end is fairly satisfactory as the Kleos achieve what seems to be a fully-powered weapon. The timeline is not linear owing to the fact that international travel and time-travel are the major aspects involved, although it is easily comprehensible and the structure complements the mysterious storyline. Set in December 2021, there is a lot going on in past, present, and future with regard to ancient history & philosophy, the international & Crypteia conflict, and the intergalactic conflict respectively. Some characters like Lazarok, Claire, and Neerja are outstanding. The setting and location the author has chosen are justly compatible with the mysterious and warlike storyline.

 

What I disliked about Apophis?

The thing I most disliked about the book was that it is charged with plenty of nouns and numbers, which is not the exact problem but they were used for unnecessary detailing. The aggregation of Greek, Chinese, Japanese, and Egyptian philosophy and setting didn’t help much in this matter. The nouns were difficult to read, let alone the pronunciation.

The writing style seems to follow the ‘tell, don’t show’ tactic which suspended the illustrious and creative aspect of the novel. For instance, the author has mentioned names of highways and buildings, adding extra emphasis on nouns and overlooking the actual details of the surroundings. The book seems to focus only on two parties, ignoring the common people. It would have been really fulfilling to read the perspective of a commoner.

I adored the first half of the book where each reincarnation (9-year-old sentient beings) of great philosophers is introduced separately with their lineage, special abilities, etc. But when they come together, I couldn’t differentiate between them. As I mentioned earlier, the book is very informative; largely this knowledge is shared via dialogues overstressing the characters. While I enjoyed the plot and conception, I couldn’t keep up with the character arcs and what I said about surroundings.

 

Conclusion

Well, this doesn’t change the fact that Apophis has a lot to offer from science to philosophy to action to humor. This book won’t let you down on that front. Pick this up if you want to know how these nine-year-olds fight against the Crypteia and aliens.

Happy Reading!

========================

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Book Review: 355 Days by Deeba Salim Irfan | Crime-Thriller

Book Review

355 Days: Pursuit of Freedom by Deeba Salim Irfan

355 Days by Deeba Salim Irfan

Author: Deeba Salim Irfan

ISBN: 978-9388766074

Genre: Crime Thriller

Length: 240 Pages

Publisher: LiFiPublications Pvt. Ltd. (1^st January 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/3fOAyci

About the author: 

Deeba Salim Irfan is an award-winning poet and a brand expert. She has been writing since childhood, ever since she had to leave her parents who were in Iran, to live with her grandparents back in India. Deeba’s 3 books have already been published internationally in the last 8 years. Her first novel, URMA, was published in 2012. The translation in Urdu followed and so did the nomination for an award by Urdu Press Club. Next, a collection of poetry was published in 2016, CHARCOAL BLUSH and was a finalist at the Book Excellence Awards in Canada.  She serves as the Chairperson of the Advisory board of the ‘Young Author Awards’ for traditionally published authors under the age of 30. For over last two decades, Deeba is residing in Dubai with her husband and three children.

Deeba Salim Irfan

Instagram: @deebzirfan

Twitter: @deebzirfan

Website: http://deebasalimirfan.com/

REVIEW

Summary

355 Days by Deeba Salim Irfan is a crime-thriller fiction inspired by true events which takes you on the emotional and spiritual journey of a falsely accused protagonist who survives 355 days in captivity and emerges on the other side with a new purpose for his life; this super-engrossing story discloses how media represents distorted facts on an impulse and exploits the ethics of journalism, illegal use of third-degree torture, systemic corruption apparently stating─ “money is everything” and portrays the unanticipated impact on relations during the crisis; filled with surprises, brilliant characters, this cleverly-plotted book will often make you go OMG!

Quote from 355 Days

Narration

355 Days: Pursuit of Freedom by Deeba Salim Irfan is about what characters experience throughout these days of imprisonment, each fighting their own battle. The book is written in third person POV revolving around three main characters─ Aadesh, his wife Maya and the lawyer Nasha. The language is simple, comprehensible and the writing style is truly captivating. The book is well-structured, providing an accurate picture of what’s going on in their (characters’) minds and the outside world, avoiding anything that does not contribute to the storyline.

Setting and Characters

The story takes place in years 2015-16 when a British-Indian business tycoon, Aadesh Dixit gets arrested for his involvement in a murder case. The locations involved in the story are Gurgaon, Delhi, Tihar Jail and The United Kingdom. Aadesh Dixit owns a chain of restaurants in London as well as in India. He is planning to open one of his outlets at the Hauz Khaz village as one of the flagship restaurants. Maya─ Aadesh’s wife is a strong mother who bravely manages her two kids and the household while their father is away at Tihar Jail. Nasha─ a celebrity criminal lawyer is well-known for always standing by the truth. She is one impressive character who has all the qualities of an ideal detective and a lawyer.

Quote from 355 Days

Theme

355 Days shows you how a life of imprisonment can affect a person in jail and the immediate family, especially when the person is innocent. It all starts with media passing fallacious judgements based on their sources just to gain viewership. This may further deceive anyone who is watching to believe something that is not entirely true, causing unrepairable damage to lives involved. The author has done a commendable job at research and portraying the functioning of Tihar Jail. Apart from how characters are coping with the situation, the second most prominent aspect of the book is life in Tihar Jail. At times the book directs the reader’s attention to some sensitive issues like harassment, sexual assault, bribing, bloody skirmishes and the ways prisoners resort to, for money.

Plot

Each page helps forging ahead the plot. Each page will make you question yourself, what if you were in the place of those characters. Would you be able to survive even a single day of that anguish? What it feels like to be separated from your parent or children or spouse? Most importantly, waiting to breathe freedom that has been snatched for the crime you haven’t committed. But there is this thread of hope, on which they are hanging on. Having a strong faith in yourselves can save you. So, here are these main characters putting on brave fronts, making it as bearable as possible for the people they love.

Quote from 355 Days

My Opinion

355 days has a lot in store for you from spirituality, faith to bravery and helping others. There are a lot of quotes that I came across and noted them down as they are foundational and of core values. Each page has something new to offer. Not to forget, dialogues are outstanding and a very important part of the book because of the court hearing sessions. Who would not like a book with such formidable characters and an awe-inspiring plot? Definitely recommended.

Happy Reading!

========================

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Book Review: Stories of Us: The Common Man by Bobby Sachdeva | Short Stories

Book Review

Stories of Us by Bobby Sachdeva

Stories of Us by Bobby Sachdeva

Author: Bobby Sachdeva

ISBN: 978-9389109023

Genre: Short Stories

Length:  254 Pages

Publisher:  Pan Macmillan (6^th December 2019)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌠

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/3hdAbt5

About the author: 

Bobby Sachdeva is a storyteller by choice and a businessman by profession. He writes stories to highlight the problems with norms and standards in our changing society and believes that these perceptions can change. In all his writings, Bobby Sachdeva engages with the problems in the lives of common people and the ways to resolve these. In the last two years, he has written more than a dozen feature films, web series, and tele-serials and his popular book of short stories titled Stories of Us. Apart from writing, Sachdeva has produced nine short films in Hindi and three feature films in Punjabi and started a fully equipped studio, Ajab Productions, in his hometown Amritsar where he lives with his family. The production of his first full-length Hindi film will begin in 2021.

Bobby Sachdeva

Instagram: @ibobbysachdeva

Twitter: @iBobbySachdeva

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iBobbySachdeva/

REVIEW

Summary

Stories of Us by Bobby Sachdeva, a collection of 41 short stories exploring a broad range of lives belonging to diverse social groups of varying wealth, power, status and race where the author directly questions the status quo regarding social, political and economic issues to make readers contemplate about the pressing subjects such as blind faith, discrimination, acquisitiveness and modern-day relations with some brilliant plotlines and some nebulous and abstract stories; strongly condemning our ways while sometimes offering values and ethics you may want to cultivate in your lives.

Narration

Stories of Us: The Common Man by Bobby Sachdeva depicts the struggles of the common man who has to constantly fight against the unscrupulous system. All short stories are narrated in third-person POV except a few. There is one symbolic illustration at the beginning of each story. At the end of the stories, Bobby Sachdeva asks thought-provoking questions to no one in particular but the society. The language is very easy and thus anyone can enjoy the book. The writing style is straightforward and consistent throughout the book.

Setting and Characters

Each story is set in different premises that are pretty much contemporary. The locations include India’s metro cities, villages and a couple of times a foreign country as well. Basically, the book captures the flaws in our society that we Indians intentionally or helplessly allow to exist. Many of the stories seem to reflect the oversimplified images of some characters just like we see in movies or TV shows but cannot be denied completely. There are many stories that follow families blindly adhering to godmen and superstitions without much rational thinking. While there are characters who share a complicated relationship with their families. Some characters are very focused on chasing money leaving behind their families and dreams. There are: fanatic leaders, RTI activist, parents, the only son of the family, eunuchs, daughters, rag pickers, garbage collectors, weak and poor, wealthy and powerful criminals and so on.

Theme

Based on the various themes, these stories can be categorized into 4-5 sections including faith & beliefs, family & relations, wealth & economy and discrimination & harassment.

Maximum number of stories were only focused on the godmen, blind faith, superstitions and unnecessary belief systems. Some of them are brilliant, delivering a strong message and addressing very specific affairs, whereas other stories are poorly executed with the same logic as others.

The second group of stories talks about relationship dynamics, hasty decisions, suspicion, work-life balance, internet affected families, parental expectations, unrelenting children and so on.

The third group involves stories regarding class consciousness, acquisitiveness, social responsibility, unlawful activities and other issues. Here, the author criticizes the government for abrupt implementation of laws after which the people are left alone to bear the consequences.

In the last group of stories, the author throws light on pressing issues like manual scavenging deaths (Do their lives don’t matter?), the life of eunuchs, molestation, threats to the safety of underprivileged & mentally ill people and so on.

My Opinion

Stories of Us raises the voice for the common man but on the contrary, some of the stories are very short and vaguely expressed that it fails to be effective enough. However, there are many stories that stand out from the rest having suitable and realistic plotlines to broach the subject we are turning deaf ears to. I would definitely recommend this to every Indian as it has the power of initiating the change.

I would like to share a few stories that moved me:

The story about attacks on RTI activists.

The story in which an exploiter financially debilitates a retired woman.

The story of humanity prevailing at the risk of a job.

The story depicting that a stray dog’s life is more valuable than an underprivileged girl.

Happy Reading!

========================

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Book Review: Better Than Sex by Atima Mankotia

Book Review

Better Than Sex by Atima Mankotia

Better Than Sex by Atima Mankotia

Author: Atima Mankotia

ISBN: 978-8194337300

Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Family & Relationships

Length:  288 Pages

Publisher: Readomania (10^th February 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2AUDc0R

About the author: 

Atima Mankotia, an alumnus of St Stephen’s College and XLRI Jamshedpur, worked in print, publishing and electronic media for over twenty-five years. Currently, she is teaching Human Resource Management, Organizational Behaviour and Communication in a business school in Delhi and is also pursuing her PhD. Her first novel Staring at the Square Moon was published by Readomania in 2017. She lives in Delhi with her husband Ajay Mankotia and has two children.

Atima Mankotia with her first novel 'Staring at the Square Moon'

Instagram: @atimamankotia
Twitter: @atimamankotia

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atimam

REVIEW

Summary

Better Than Sex by Atima Mankotia─ a YA contemporary and family & relationships fiction is an outstanding and neatly-written book set amidst the hustle-bustle of a no-nonsense Indian wedding in seemingly perfect families where the author delves deeper into unforgettable and realistic characters to bring forth distinctive personalities, addressing subjects like gender identity, societal conventions, and complicated, unconventional relationships; all this with light-hearted humor and a mystery to keep you at the edge of your seat. 

Narration

Better Than Sex is probably the most realistic book I’ve ever read in this genre. It is written in third-person POV following the main character Meenu, the bride. The story basically introduces you to the principal members of both the families. The narration is non-linear and to-the-point. The language is decorated with fine vocabulary and is efficient.

Location and Setting

The story takes place on a bus, driving the marriage party and the bride from Delhi to Chandigarh after the Vidai ceremony concludes. This entire book is a journey from dawn to dusk, briefly yet meticulously exploring characters with various backgrounds and past.  Even in this brief journey, Atima Mankotia has made the best out of it. Chandigarh and Delhi definitely influence the story in some sequences. Delhi University colleges, their culture, dating life of students and Fertilizer Company in Chandigarh are some of the setting-driven subjects. Otherwise, the story is highly influenced by the characters alone.

Theme & Characters

Family & relationships can be described as the main theme of this book. Family drama is not what you can find in this book, it’s free from any such exaggerated nonsense. After a woeful experience of the Vidai ceremony, Meenu is grappling with anxiousness around the strange people who just became her new family members all of a sudden. The fact that her mother, Kamlesh forgets to remind her a thing that she never fails to do when someone is leaving the house, adds up to Meenu’s anguish. Danny, the groom belongs to the Khullar family that has seen the days of struggle during the financial crisis. Roop, Danny’s aunt is portrayed as a formidable and an excellent woman of the household, who never compromises with the wellbeing of her family. On the other hand, Kamlesh, Meenu’s mother has suffered a lot due to her mother-in-law’s toxic behavior and establishes a joyful bond with her daughters-in-law. These families are perfect on the outside, but they have some really dark secrets concealed from each other. The author portrays how torturing it can be, having different sexual preferences than the majority. The book also displays how societal conventions and norms can abandon our simple basic physical needs. Additionally, it prompts readers to contemplate about the unconventional societal behaviors and intimate relations.

Plot

The non-linear narration gives insight into how these families function and how some characters contribute to their families. Mainly they are the influential women of the household. As Neena Gupta ji says in her book review, these are the quirky life stories that every woman will relate to. However, a significant part of the plot is driven by male characters also. As the story progresses, you will become aware of the fact that, you’re yet to discover the secrets. Simultaneously, you will crave the conflict to be settled down but it just won’t. The end is satisfying but I wanted more of it. I really wish there would be a sequel.

I forgot to mention 'sex'. Truly, there are many feelings that are definitely better than sex, you'll find out in this novel. But the book is much more than what the title might suggest.

My Opinion

I loved how Atima Mankotia has included so many remarkable characters and an effective plotline in this light read. Clearly, I didn’t want this to end. I didn’t find humor so compelling. Although, everything in this book is very relatable as we have attended at least one such Indian wedding. There are a couple of scenes that left an everlasting impression. I never felt bored while reading this book and it kept me to the edge of my seat until the end. It was indeed a fun read and I would recommend this to you all.

Happy Reading!

========================

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Book Review: Azrar and the Tale of the Curse by AKR | High Fantasy | Indian Author

Book Review

Azrar and the Tale of the Curse by AKR

Azrar and the Tale of the Curse by AKR

Author: AKR (Ayush Kumar Rajput)

ISBN: 978-9385440540

Genre: Fantasy

Length:  232 Pages

Publisher: Petals Publishers (30^th September 2018)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2WT19wX

About the author: 

Ayush Kumar Rajput writes under the pen name AKR. He is currently pursuing his MBA and has completed his graduation from KCMT. Besides studying, he loves reading about various mythologies of the world and wishes to present them with a seasoning of fantasy. AKR lives in Bareilly and is presently working on the next book in the Azrar series.

AKR (Ayush Kumar Rajput)

Instagram: @i.am_a_k_r/
Twitter: @AKR8395

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorakr/

REVIEW

Summary

Azrar and the Tale of the Curse is a fantasy novel, set in the small village of the Leothe ─ perfect reflection of the Earth─ a world wonderfully created by the author, where the protagonist from the Earth becomes the guardian of Azrar; an ingenious and creatively plotted story about bravery and determination of the main character who selflessly sacrifices everything to protect Azrarians and reinstate power and splendor of the Azrar; that will fire your imagination and would excite you at times.

Narration

Azrar is actually a diary written by Henry Smith, containing his adventurous life story. It is narrated in first-person POV and follows the lead character, Henry. The writing style is pretty fantastic, which is compatible with the setting and the environment. The novel is divided into 21 chapters, where the reader gradually explores the world of Leothe. The language is simple and comprehensible including a lot of author-invented and strange-sounding nouns.

Location and Setting

Azrar is, well, set in a small village called Azrar, the residents of which are suffering from a curse. The story takes place in the year 2016 when Henry unknowingly travels from the Earth to the Leothe. The infrastructure and functioning of this kingdom are portrayed elaborately. Currently, it’s in ruins and indicates very little of what it used to be. Watchtowers, a cave protected with a password, enormous and beautiful castle, sculptures, royal gardens, ponds and a magical forest are some remarkable places you can find in this book. The Derindoras forest is visibly the source of magic for this land that possesses mystifying creatures and unfathomable structures and it is what sets Earth and Leothe apart.

Theme

It is commendable how seamlessly the author AKR has narrated the sequence about Henry finding himself in the whole new world. Indeed, it comes with shocks and surprises. As the story progresses, Henry comes to know about Azrar, the residents, their culture and most importantly, why he is supposed to be there. Every day is a new adventure for him until he sets Azrar free from the curse. Macwood, an important supporting character helps him through this. Henry learns fighting with the sword, gets familiarized with Azrar, fights massive saber-toothed cats called Narzies, becomes more knowledgeable about Azrarians and the curse, fights horned fiery monsters and gets to know more of the secrets concealed from him. Each chapter is packed with absolutely new things and a fresh adventure.

Plot

Children began to born dead in Azrar due to the curse. While some availed the privilege of life, but none could survive beyond the age of 20. There only remain 9 youngsters now who are waiting for their death. Although, when Henry came, Azrarians developed faith in him, as he could be the possible guardian according to the prophecy. He shares an intimate relationship with Meriul, daughter of Macwood. Meriul is one of those nine youngsters, which motivates him further to conquer anything that stood between them.

My Opinion

I personally loved this book and the world of Leothe. I have never read such high fantasy by an Indian author. The mechanism and functioning of this world are what captivated my attention, that not everything is magic-driven. You may find syntax errors here and there in this edition. Otherwise, it’s completely fine. The idea of this story becomes very clear after a certain point and delivers a strong message. The otherworldly setting and creatures don’t overshadow the human feelings and the accomplishment of the protagonist. Narzies are my favorites from Azrar.

Lastly, I would say, this could have been better. It lacks something. The bond between Henry and others seemed illusory. I wish there were other prominent supporting and opposing characters.

Happy Reading!

========================

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Book Review: Afsaane by Ameya Bondre | Short Stories

Book Review

Afsaane by Ameya Bondre

Afsaane by Ameya Bondre | Collection of Short Stories

Author: Ameya Bondre

ISBN: 978-9389763072

Genre: Short Stories

Length: 191 Pages

Publisher: BlueRose Publishers (27 December 2019)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2TcHVR9

About the author: 

Ameya is a physician and public health researcher, currently working with a healthcare technology start-up associated with IIT-Bombay. Born and raised in Mumbai, he studied at KEM Hospital, and later at Johns Hopkins University in the United States. Ameya’s professional life has been rewarding with honours from Johns Hopkins, MIT, Yale and TEDx, and several research publications. Creative writing has been a constant companion over the years, with multiple rounds of writing and editing back and forth, periodic workshops, and continued learning from editors and readers alike. He formally started writing short stories in the winter of 2017, to put them into ‘Afsaane’, his first book.

Ameya Bondre

Follow him on Instagram: @authorameya

Facebook: Author-Ameya-Bondre

REVIEW

Narration

Afsaane is a collection of short stories narrated in a very unique way, represents the intricacy of human relationships combined with a bunch of other subjects that challenge millennials’ anxieties in current dating culture. The writing style is comprehensive and mysterious at the same time accompanied by analogies and the soul of the book I believe, expositions that intensify the feelings. All the stories are narrated in first-person POV except for one. One of the stories is narrated by a drug, fascinating right?

Setting and Characters

All stories take place at different premises, cities, and countries. As I mentioned before, Ameya Bondre has succeeded in creating reliable settings for each story with well-written expositions. For example, in ‘Distances’ author has created a paradise of memories using wooden shelves which helped brilliantly to bring forth reminiscence. There are a good amount of pivotal and critical scenes, executed not perfectly but effective enough; scenes that remain vivid for a lifetime in your memories. There are weddings, break-ups, divorces, child adoption, meetings, and dates. The evocative narration makes them striking and astounding.

What make these stories unique, are the unconventional characters who all stand for reality and connect with young readers. At this time, when a celibate chief of right-wing organization projects divorce as something shameful, it is noticeable that Ameya’s characters are fearless in a way, putting the welfare of their loved ones before sanctions of the society; proves that the newness and uncertainty of the matter don’t make it shameful.

Theme

Firstly, it is necessary to understand that human relations have always been intricate, no matter the time, but times have changed since the last few years. Times and circumstances always offered a choice so unconventional for the society, but now the idea of ‘acceptance’ has made society less intolerant (although there are places where it is exactly opposite for some reasons). There is one story about divorce after many years of togetherness, for better of course and the reasons fair enough. Ameya Bondre has covered all the aspects and perspectives that matter in each story. There is adoption of a child, one attending marriage of his ex, getting over the death of your loved one and moving on, a tale of infidelity that sows the seed for newfound love and reunion of a long lost pair. A few of these stories are incredible and stand out from the others.

My Opinion

Now it’s time for my favorites. I loved how Ameya came up with perspectives of both, the parents and the grandparents regarding adoption. Sensing the gravity of the subject, it is great, how the big picture is compacted in a short story ‘Blinkers on’. ‘Trapped’ is an exceptional story, for its narration through the drug itself about its addict. It gets a bit comical when you realize that. However, it tells not to lose hope that it will be fine. Meanwhile, for drugs, they hope that one snort them soon. After reading ‘A Healthy Home’ one realizes how difficult it would be for Dalit women to raise cranky and physically weak children. In a detached village and home rooted in restricted beliefs, far from newer ideas. Here author sharply remarks and I quote ‘No one had impacted her. Not her family. Not those relatives who got excited about the birth of a male child. Not the health worker.’

I think this review is not enough for what all the book contains. If you will try to look for a meaning, you’ll surely find a few which will fascinate you.

Happy Reading!

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