Book Review: Pokhran by Uday Singh | Indian Crime-Thriller

Book Review

Pokhran by Uday Singh

Pokhran by Uday Singh

Author: Uday Singh

ISBN: 978-9387022874

Genre: Crime, Thriller & Mystery

Length: 213 Pages

Publisher: SrishtiPublishers and Distributors (15^th July 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2CbYQ1E

About the author: 

Uday is a philosopher, economist, and engineer with a firm belief in the progressive march of humanity towards a better and brighter future. He has traveled and lived across countries and continents, which has given him a unique outside-in perspective on India. With a Masters of Business Administration from Columbia University, when he is not writing, he works at an investment bank in New York City and likes to spend time with his family in Princeton, New Jersey.

Uday Singh

Instagram: @uday_singh_0000

Twitter: @udaysingh007

Author's interview at GovernanceNow: ‘Always write (or live life) with all passion and heart in it’

REVIEW

Summary

Pokhran by Uday Singh is a thriller fictional novel based on the true events that took place in India following the ‘Smiling Buddha’ operation – a successful nuclear bomb test, in 1974; the book shows how it impacted the lives in Pokhran; moreover, the story follows the protagonist whose life is closely connected with ‘Smiling Buddha’ operation; with a wonderful cast of supporting characters and an excellent fast-pacing and enthralling plot, the book touches numerous thought-provoking subjects highly relevant to the current circumstances; packed with shocks and surprises at every page, surely makes it an enjoyable read.

Narration

Pokhran is narrated in first person POV most of the times by Chaitanya, the protagonist. The writing style is natural and easily comprehensible, perfect for the kind of novel it assembles. The language is simple and can be read by anyone including children. The structure of the novel complements the mystery element of the book that makes you eager to read more every time the chapter ends.

Setting and Characters

Pokhran by Uday Singh, as it suggests, begins with the ‘Smiling Buddha’ operation at the Pokhran Test Range, Rajasthan, and a prologue with a glimpse of the situation in 2019. Firstly, the book focusses on the childhood and school-life of Chaitanya in Pokhran and his trips to Payradanga, Calcutta, and Kakekapura, a village his best friend belonged to. The portrayal is so vivid that it makes us reminisce about those invaluable moments of our golden age. Chaitanya’s character arc remains tremendous throughout the book with the same amount of ups and downs. Apart from these locations, the book travels you through MIT, Boston, and Syria.

The supporting characters include Paramvir, his father who brought up Chaitu to be strongest. Radhika, Chaitanya’s sister who stands by her brother throughout her life and supports him at every stage. Ramesh Sir, Chaitanya’s favorite teacher and his mentor who sees the great potential in his student. Divyani, her childhood friend and crush from Payradanga. Zara, his wife, and a persecuted Yazidi from Syria having a fearless and lively personality. There are even more pivotal characters from diverse backgrounds.

Theme

The theme of the book can be collectively described as crime, thriller, and mystery. The book addresses many subjects varying from religion to human trafficking. It sheds light on the communal riots in parts of West Bengal after the Bangladesh Partition. It also discusses land redistribution and greedy politicians. The subjects that are highly relevant at this time in 2020 such as discrimination, equality, refugees, immigration, and encounters to conceal their felonies. The author shares the objective behind writing this novel, an idea of the formation of the government and society that eradicates the generational build-up of the wealth gap, which I strongly disagree with. But the intent is indeed very good that of level playing field.

Plot

The plot is about the ups and downs in Chaitanya’s life. There are several heart-breaking moments in his life. There are delightful moments too, marking his success and celebrating emotional bonds with other characters. The book is filled with meaningful dialogues providing different perspectives.

My Opinion

The book is engrossing that I never felt bored reading the book. It is a fast-paced book that lures you to complete the book in one sitting. There are a lot of elements involved that somewhat don’t keep up with what readers might be expecting which makes it highly unpredictable. The plot and the concept, as I said earlier is excellent. However, the purpose of writing the book, introduction to ‘Paracratic society’ which I think is very unrealistic and dangerous for humankind. Instead, I would like to take away this great thought from the book – “It is in the service of others that you will find true joy and happiness”.

I also think that my difference of opinion should not be considered a part of this evaluation. The author has done a commendable job in jotting down this remarkable story of Pokhran and her son. If Pokhran doesn’t get recognized by the readers all over the country, then I'll consider it an underrated work of Indian literature. I’m truly looking forward to reading more from the author.

Happy Reading!

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Book Review: Kaalkoot The Lost Himalayan Secret by S. Venkatesh

Book Review

Kaalkoot The Lost Himalayan Secret by S. Venkatesh

Kaalkoot by S. Venkatesh

Author: S. Venkatesh

ISBN: 978-8193642450

Genre: Historical Fiction (Crime, Mystery & Thriller)

Length: 335 Pages

Publisher: TreeShade Books (7 December 2018)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2YU4AGK

About the author: 

Venkatesh wears many hats. In his roles as private equity investor, executive coach, business leader, entrepreneur and Board member, he has helped businesses thrive and grow. He has spent a significant part of his professional life in the stock markets with Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan and continues to be an avid investor. Venkatesh has been keenly interested in Eastern philosophy and mysticism right from his college days at IIT Delhi and IIM Calcutta.

He has found his inspiration to write in rather curious settings - while crawling through war tunnels in Vietnam, coming face-to-face with a bear in the Nilgiris, chancing upon an Indus Valley ruin while on a road trip, listening to “Madhushala,” or just drinking cutting chai by the roadside. He is passionate about self-discovery and the power of stories to inspire and transform.

S. Venkatesh at Higginbotham's, Chennai

Follow him on Instagram: @authorsvenkatesh

Twitter Handle: @AuthorVenkatesh
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSVenkatesh/ 

REVIEW

Narration

Kaalkoot is a crime thriller with the backdrop of mystery, as the subtitle suggests─ The Lost Himalayan Secret. The story has many aspects like the history and the warfare. The book initiates from the time when Quit India Movement was launched. The story is narrated in the third person point of view. The voice is very clear and gives the exact information the reader would want. The narration doesn’t follow any character in particular, it narrates thoughts of every character being followed. The structure of the book is clever and evenly spaced out.

Location and Setting

Kaalkoot has covered many monumental places which includes Mumbai, Kolkata, Goa, Delhi and locations of Himalaya terrain. The novel takes place in June 2018. The story starts with a Prof. Bani living in Kolkata who is poring over some conspiracy theory he had come to know thirteen years back. Damini is an agent at underground Anti-Conspiracy Group (ACG) formed by Indian Government. The setting really complements the plot that absorbs the reader into the world full of agents, hackers and the danger imposing on them all.

Theme

Kaalkoot is a crime thriller with the adventure that comes along discovering the truth and revealing mysteries. In the prologue itself, the author mentions the destruction of the whole earth. Sameer Rajan is the protagonist for the novel and he is one of the strong and courageous characters. While searching for his missing girlfriend he comes to know about the looming threat to thousands of lives from bioweapon called Kaalkoot. These three characters cross their paths only for what fate has destined for them and that is keeping the evil from succeeding in their plans.  

Plot

The story is divided into five parts each focuses on the different task and revealing something new. The book is packed with action scenes and others are intriguing ones. The baseline being the conspiracy theory and the study of history, a history geek would love to reflect on past events. Along the story comes various characters of distinct background from across the country and some foreign. Mostly they are experts, mountaineer, agents and professors. The story doesn’t halt for a second, thus the characters are always in action making their lasting impression, e.g., and agents who don’t get the luxury of time to make a decision. Meanwhile, only three of them (Bani, Damini and Sameer) knows the forthcoming ruination. And they are being constantly followed by the minions of the antagonist. They have to make their choices wisely and quickly for saving those thousands of lives.

My Views

I completely loved Kaalkoot. This is one of the ever progressive novels I have read in my life. The book has many aspects covered from which I liked reading about the history and bioweapons. One of the interesting parts was warfare and international alliances. This might not seem different but it is very different in its own way. The Himalayan secret and the conspiracy theories are very fun to read about literally burying face into the book.

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Book Review: The Curse of Anuganga by Harini Srinivasan

Book Review

The Curse of Anuganga by Harini Srinivasan

The Curse of Anuganga by Harini Srinivasan

Author: Harini Srinivasan

ISBN: 978-8193642498

Genre: Historical Fiction (Mystery)

Length: 280 Pages

Publisher: TreeShade Books (28 April 2019)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2KzF00u

About the author:

An aficionado of literature, history and dance, Harini Srinivasan has found innovative ways of bringing her passions to her work. Among her achievements is her contribution as an editor of several prestigious publications published by the Publications Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, such as Selected Speeches of the President: Pranab Mukherjee; The Republican Ethic: Selected Speeches of Shri Ram Nath Kovind; Indian Dance – Through a Critic’s Eye; Abode Under the Dome; Legends of Indian Silver Screen; and Selected Speeches of the Vice President: M. Venkaiah Naidu.

Harini Srinivasan

She also has to her credit a children’s book “The Wizard Tales - Adventures of Bun-Bun” (now into its second print) and a blog on classic Hindi films and books. Along the way, she undertook different roles (Civil Servant, Project Manager, Communications Professional and Editor) across countries (India, Germany and the Netherlands). A doting mother of a 10 year old son, Harini Srinivasan lives with her family in Gurgaon.

Check her blog: www.bagsbooksandmore.wordpress.com

Follow her on Instagram: @hsriniv12

Twitter Handle: @HSriniv12
Visit her Website: http://harinisrinivasan.com/

REVIEW

Narration

The Curse of Anuganga is a Historical Fiction based on the history of Vakataka dynasty capital, which is Nandivardhana. Driving the inspiration from the history of ancient India, the author Harini Srinivasan has tried to put her views and story which could have caused the mysterious events that took place at the end of the 4^th century. The story is narrated in the third-person point of view which follows the main character Shaunaka. The author has tried her best to portray Ancient India with the wealth of rich culture of architecture, developed imperial government, language and literature. She has used many Sanskrit words throughout the book quite often which affected the efficiency of writing style. The writing style and the structure is very good and the story is consistent and average paced throughout the book.

Location and Setting

The story takes place in 403 CE when the Rani Prabhavatigupta (390 CE – 410 CE) was the regent Queen, ruling over the kingdom Nandivardhana on behalf of her two young sons. Harini Srinivasan has successfully portrayed the image of this kingdom and how it worked, it is just perfect and is a remarkable point about The Curse of Anuganga. There are different quarters in the kingdom of Nandivardhana and the story mainly revolves around Buddhist Quarter, Administrative Quarter, Jewellers’ Quarter and the market of the city. The book also described the infrastructure of various constructions which added value to the magnificent period of Indian history.

Theme

The Curse of Anuganga follows a murder mystery and the constant threat to the kingdom from an unknown source throughout the course. The main character Shaunaka is the son of a well-known goldsmith, Vishnuveera. The prologue and the opening took me by surprise and my expectation got higher, but nothing sort of happened until towards the end. After studying the theories about Kalidasa, author went along with the theory that associates Kalidasa to the court of King Chandragupta II. So, there is this great element to read about, which is Mahakavi and his invaluable creations and accomplishments.

Plot

Shaunaka is given the charge to work on the bride’s jewellry at the corner house in Buddhist Quarters. Unfortunate Shaunaka and his brother Ashwini find themselves in front of the Vinayashura’s dead body. Vinayashura, the owner of that corner house who was rumored to have deep connections with the royal family, was mysterious enough to Shaunaka and now after the murder, he is intrigued to know more about the mystery at hand. Because of their logic and keen observation skills, Shaunaka and Ashwini have land duty of assisting the head of police to solve this murder. Also another event, the royal wedding of the prince is facing the obstacles and both mysteries are causing a threat to the security of Nandivardhana.

My Views

The use of Sanskrit might have compromised the capacity of the narration but it was very essential to the story and it was fun to learn bits of Sanskrit this way. I loved many characters and the list includes Devi Tanirika (wife of Vinayashura and mother of bride─ Tarika), Pitamahi Ahalyabai (Grandmother of Shaunaka and Ashwini), Bharavi and Yakshvatsa. I expected more from the character of Mahakavi Kalidasa. The story was not much intriguing as it was just moving straight forward without any major events in between. Thus, the climax was burdened with all the mysteries. While the language, setting and the representation of mysterious events in the ancient history of India were expertly carried out.

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Book Review: Hope in Paris! by Donnalyn Vojta (The Teddy bear Chronicles #1)

Book Review

Hope in Paris! by Donnalyn Vojta

(The Teddy Bear Chronicles Book #1)

Hope in Paris! by Donnalyn Vojta

Author: Donnalyn Vojta

ISBN: 978-0999241028

Genre: Crime, Thriller & Suspense

Length: 292 Pages

Publisher: New Traditions Publishing (1st June 2018)

My Ratings: 4.5/5

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

About the author:

"I have a B.A. (cum laude) from North Central College in Naperville, IL with a major in Humanities (Philosophy emphasis) and a minor in Literature. I also have a Juris Doctorate degree from The John Marshall Law School in Chicago, IL. I practiced law as a litigation and real estate transactions attorney for over 13 years, but then quit that career to do something that makes me happy.

Thus, here I am writing novels. I love it! As far as my accomplishments in the publishing arena, I have a traditional publisher, and both of the first volumes of my unique thriller series have launched. Volumes I and II have been met with wonderful ratings and reviews which, I must say, warms my heart. Volume I is entitled HOPE IN PARIS!, and Volume II is entitled CHLOE'S CRUSADE! When I am not writing, I am working as a private academic tutor to students ages 4 and up."

Donnalyn Vojta

Follow her on Instagram: @suspense_author

Check out her Website: https://www.donnalynvojta.com/

Twitter Handle: @DonnalynVojta

REVIEW

Narration

Hope in Paris! is a suspense thriller book amazingly narrated by three teddy bears. And it is not a story for KIDS. Yes. Talking about narration, it is the best-est part of Hope in Paris! There are three Teddy Bears at different locations who narrates the story, like they can read and listen and have minds that can store the memories. But like any other non-living objects, they can’t move by themselves or smell or eat. Donnalyn Vojta is so intelligent that she took care of this very well, the Teddy Bear learns as they watch and observe. At sometimes they are funny also. They got their names. Fair Bear, Sleepy Time Bear and Love Bear. First few chapters are the introduction to their surroundings, with whom they live and their past. The story remains steady until the suspense struck hard and it speeds up.

Location and Setting

Fair Bear is in Chicago, Love Bear at Madison and Sleepy Time Bear is in Paris. Fair Bear lives (if that can be a thing) with a couple, Kelly and Mark. Kelly is about to become an RN (Registered Nurse). Mark is her boyfriend who provides her with finances. Kelly and her sister have had a very horrid past with their parents so they happen to leave their parents. Love Bear stays with Richard who is searching for ‘the one’ but never succeeds further than the third date. Sleepy Time Bear rather works at an orphanage at Paris with Ms. V (Rachel Verona), singing and drama instructor. As the story moves, Fair Bear and Love Bear travel to Paris. And most of the story revolves there. The author has described the beauty of Paris so very well that one would not stop cherishing it. The hotels, cafés and the orphanage itself.

Theme

Hope in Paris! is Crime, Thriller & Suspense. After three or so years after, the body of the victim is IDed and news spread across the US and Paris. There is one psychopath who is involved in that murder. I hope it is not a spoiler to say that they all are interconnected that all end up in Paris for some reason. Kelly reunites with her elder sister in Paris after so many years. Richard (Pharmaceutical Engineer) is there for completing his romance novel and to find ‘the one’.

Plot

I cannot explain much because of spoilers and the suspense. Well, the story is all about these two sisters, Kelly and Victoria Donovan. They’ve suffered enough and now their lives are in danger because they have pieces of evidence against the murderer! Will they survive? Opening and ending are at their best. There is one side-character named Chloe, friend to Kelly, plays a strong character and will be continuing the story for the sequel (That’s what I think). The characters are well developed that one can get attached to them emotionally and care about them. Character arcs are also well maintained. There is mention of Schizophrenia (chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves) which develops a kind of awareness for mental disorders. It also depicts how bully parents erode kids’ self-esteem and create long-lasting damage.

My Views

First things first, the narration got me by surprise. The humor that Teddy Bears added was very entertaining in this suspense thriller. The characters and their backstory that the reader can directly connect to. At first, the story was slow paced but gradually paced faster. The wonderful description of Paris. I googled one hotel mentioned in Hope in Paris! and surprise, the exact hotel I saw in the pictures the one I imagined while reading. So, to enhance your experience you can read watching the pictures of these extremely beautiful locations for that Paris vibes. There are a few flaws in the storyline and the writing, for which I will give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The romance factor was really interesting and was moving along the plot very well. It is really charming how the Donnalyn Vojta has carried out good two relationships considering the fact of their being in Paris.

Last but not the least the mental disorders factor. And the bully parents issues.

I would recommend it to everyone out there above age 14. Not just because of suspense or thriller but surprisingly amazing narration.

Happy Reading!

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Book Review : Done With Her... by Chirasree Bose | Dhiraj Sindhi

Book Review

Done With Her... by Chirasree Bose

A revelation that stabs at your subconscious

Done with Her... by Chirasree Bose

Author: Chirasree Bose

ISBN: 978-9388855518

Genre: Crime-Thriller & Mystery

Length: 73 Pages (Kindle Edition)

Publisher: Evincepub Publishing (2019 Paperback Edition)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/317Opnk

About the author:

Being an indoor person, Chirasree loves to read, write, and paint. If she's not doing either of the three, you'd find her observing people and reading into their emotions. That's where she gets her story ideas from. With her debut novel 'Done With Her...', she intends to ignite diverse emotions in the readers' minds. She believes in making a difference through her writing. This novel is her baby step towards that goal.

Chirasree Bose

Follow him on Instagram: @chirasreebose_author

Check out her Website: https://sreeblogs.com/

Twitter Handle: @Chirasree2819

REVIEW

Done With Her… is a crime thriller debut novel by Chirasree Bose. It is a short length novel with page count of 73 pages. The story is narrated in first-person point of view by two main characters. Some chapters are narrated by Spreeha and others by Avesh. They both are working for the same company where Spreeha has recently joined.

In the first few chapters I struggled to understand what is going on and who is narrating the story, it was complex because of the mysterious narration. Although the writing style is really up to the mark, reaching the level of the crime-thriller genre. The whole story is divided into very small chapters and the most interesting thing about the book is chapter titles. Each and every chapter succeed to hook the reader craving for another one. I finished it in a very single sitting. The language used is not very tough and beginners will relish it if they like crime-thrillers.

The story takes place after Spreeha joins the same company as Avesh and Vrijen. Avesh and Vrijen are friends from the same village. The secrets start to unveil as they meet their college friend, Dheeraj. Then the plot gets intensified as the events unfold. Characters are well crafted, even with this short length the story is character driven. You’d want to know what these characters are up to. However, for me, it was much predictable. Also, the chapters narrated by Avesh are well written despite male-point-of-view, in fact she nailed it.

Love takes over your heart, whereas lust owns your mind.

There is much more apart from crime and mystery. The author talks about love and lust. Also, Chirasree Bose has a message to convey to her readers which adds more value to Done With Her… Love has no definition, no limits and no rules whatsoever. There is enough hatred on earth already, let love spread its wings.

All in all, I enjoyed reading it and not a single sentence was boring. And the end was ever satisfying. I would recommend it to everyone out there, quick and thrilling read.

Thank you Soulful Quote for this review copy!! Happy Reading!

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