Review Diaries (Are You Kidding Me? By Anirban Das)

Name of the book - Are You Kiddin Me? By
Anirban Das
Stars given - 5 on 5 stars.
My take on the book -
Have you ever been in a situation where you went... Are you kidding me? Or man you gotta be kidding me?
If yes then you will like this book.
A series of different situations which makes you laugh and at times go all teary eyed and yet laughing is what this book does.
Most of the characters are very relatable and also these people are those whom you have had been unfortunate enough to meet.
In other cases you are tha poor soul who are in trouble.
But everything said and done I have a tiny problem with the book, the end notes were at times irritating. I am someone who adores adding endnotes and star marks for adding additional information cause I just wanna add it all. But now I realize why people don't like it.
It kind of takes you away from the story.
So that being said Me overall likey the book.

Review Diaries ( AQSON Level 1 by SREEJIB.)

Name of the book - AQSON Level 1 by SREEJIB.
Status - Read, Loved and dying to read Level 2.
Stars- 100 out of 100.
About the book -
"Slowly, she sauntered towards Toya, stopped a few feet away, looked into Toya's eyes, and roared. It was an ear-splitting, feet-numbing, rib-shaking roar that promised death. This was the end of her, Toya knew.

This was how she would die. In this unknown museum at the hands of this Olympian lioness, and, she would never be found again."

When it became impossible to choose between God and Satan, angels decided to play games. Games that would help them pick the guardian angel of this world. Every warrior angel got divided into two teams, Team God and Team Lucifer.

Strict rules were implemented, an unusual map was designed and a council was set up to administer these games. Satan has commenced one such game called Aqson and set the Indian Prime Minister's position as the goal of this game.

Now, a completely unknown species will collide with humans to play a game where losing is not figurative. Angels will stoop to enter the grunge of Indian politics.
A grey eyed lioness will stop at nothing. And, a group of young boys and girls will be forced to rise above their identity to play and win Level 1 of Aqson.

Pick a side, because the game has begun. "

My take on it -
I really, really really, really, really loved it. This book, a freaking commitment phobic like me will happily marry and have kids with. I absolutely loved this one. The story isn't just about this fantasy world of Good vs Devil and God vs Satan. It also shows you all the basic human emotions of love and hatred, love and betrayal. It shows the real world and all it's reality. The veiled references are my favorite, they made me laugh out loud in a crowded metro, with some very angry stares and whispered attacks made my way. But I would do it again, cause it was worth it. I received this book when I was in my way out and but of course I took it with me. And I thoroughly enjoyed my day, though I don't remember much of it except this book is amazing. So now for a quick pros and cons -
Pros-
1. Love the friendship the characters share, it's relatable and enviable.
2. Its very fast paced but very clear in it's descriptions.
3. Not a single word is unnecessary in this 398 paged book.
4. If you love wit, (Wait who doesn't? Cause in laws don't count) you will fly too- as in fly into this book's arms.
5. Gives you a clean slate, cause good and bad are just perspectives.
Now we move in to the Cons and they are all very serious.
1. Book 1 doesn't come with Book 2.
2. I don't know when Level 2 will release.
3. Level 1 ended with a big cliffhanger, I need to know what happens next.
4. Give me some information on what happens next.
5. Have mercy in my nails, which I am eating cause I am at the edge of my seat... What's in store of Level 2.

So in short I would love to give this book all the stars in the world along with my savings and chocolate collection as long as I get to read Level 2 soon.
I hope you are listening to this!
QOTD - Name your favorite anti-heros, cause villain is such a harsh word-from Indian mythology. #badboysofIndianmyths
AOTD - My three absolute favorite bad boys are in this book, Ravan, Lucifer and Karna.
#bestbookof2019 #brightenedmy2019 #2019saved #mythology #myths #humanlore

Review Diaries (The Peshwa - The War of Deceivers by Ravi Sivasankaran)

Name of the book- The Peshwa - The War of Deceivers by Ravi Sivasankaran.
Status - Read and about to be read again.
QOTD - Have you ever been so involved in a book that you were ready to tackle a character in a hug of hug or death?
AOTD - Me? Oh yeah. All the time.
About the book-
Seven years have passed since Peshwa Bajirao Bhat annihilated the Nizam’s armies at Fort Mandu. The two forces have been engaged in attacks and skirmishes ever since. Acting on the advice of his right-hand man, the mysterious Anaamik Dabhade, the Peshwa now sets about laying a trap to truly ensnare the Mughals, and break their might.

The Empire, of course, has methods of its own. And Nizam Ul Mulk is itching for an opportunity to exact revenge of the formidable Bajirao. With assassins, saboteurs and criminals infiltrating the Maratha lands, the Mughal Empire scores as many victories in the night as the Peshwa does during the day.

Meanwhile, in the far reaches of the country, set ablaze by the never-ending conflict between these major powers, a Sikh warlord, a Rajput king and a Bundela princess find themselves increasingly tangled up in the endgame that will determine the very course of history. It is a battle of wits and skill, and the greatest deceiver of them all will prevail.

My take in it-
This is the second book in the series and I am real close to buying the first one. Not cause I didn't get the connection between the two books but cause I really liked this one, so going back to book one is like a no-brainer. Personally I am someone who has hated history after 7th grade. But even I stayed glued to the pages till the end and after a quick water break I am about to read it again, sleep - who wants or cares about it when you got such a cool book in your life. Ps I think I should mention that I have seen Bajirao Mastani and I hated it. I don't do well with cheating and infidelity but somehow I didn't even that much of negativity against those two. But yes many a times when Rao is talking I would hear his dialogues in my head in none other than Ranveer Singh's voice. *giggles*
All in all, I really liked the ass kicking those evil wrongdoers got. Hope book 3 will have them destroyed.
So I, Manali Dey, will love to give The Peshwa - The War of Deceivers by Ravi Sivasankaran a big 5 on 5 star and a big pat on the back. Thanks for making me like history again.

Review Diaries (Angad by Rahul Verma)

Angad by Rahul Verma
Status - 5 on 5 stars with a big batch of candy floss.
About the book-
WHEN THE LAND OF MINDHAAS IS PLAGUED BY THE MONSTERS OF THE SANDS AND A WAR FOR SUPREMACY...

HE IS THE ONLY HOPE...
Three thousand years ago, a man devastated by the loss of his daughter builds a city and creates the kingdom of Mindhaas.
Two centuries later, when the same realm is plagued by the "beasts of the sands" who know none of the ways of civilised living, the king of Mindhaas calls upon his best warrior to rid the world of their entire race.
The leader of the Mindh forces, and the one true love of the princess of Manuforpur, is their only hope.
But little do the protectors of Mindhaas know that their land is soon about to be shaken by the mighty forces of another kingdom as well.
Pirouetting through a time of grand cities boasting gates of gold and when the might of kingdoms was measured by the number of war elephants kept, an epic love story between two souls from different cities creates a stir and provokes a war.
And thus a fellowship of men robed in love and determined to form a sovereign nation from a land known for its splendour and justice rises.
A tale of determination, survival, war, love and... Angad.
My take on it-
Remember those stories that our grandparents told us, of the strong warrior who is right and just and how he and the princess of this another kingdom fell in love. But... then comes the villains in all sorts of shapes and sizes and forms, sometimes they are father in laws while at others they look like sand monsters. But in the end the hero saves everyone, mostly and is declared the ultimate 'prefect' match for the girl and then they live happily ever after or at least till the next crisis comes knocking at their doors. So needless to say I loved reading this book, cause I am absolutely ga-ga over the hero. Kinda partial to the name Angad to be honest, and they guy wore it so good, with honor and courage and strength and power. He isn't one of those macho he mans who shy away from showing their softer side, neither does he take the easy way out, he is honorable. Me likey a lot.
And our heroine is amazing in her own right, she is strong and idealistic and courageous and good soul. These two are meant for each other.
One more reason I loved this story so much is that both of them could have been selfish and eloped but they chose to do the right thing.
QOTD - When faced with one's family's opposition is eloping an option?
AOTD - Nopes. Noooo. Never. Ever. For me my family means everything, I would rather have them accept my decision than stand against them. Love wins!!!

Review Diaries (The Code Of Manavas by Arpit Bakshi)

The Code Of Manavas by Arpit Bakshi

About the book-
Book one of the Maha Vishnu Trilogy, The Code of Manavas, is set some two million years past ad 2050, when earth as we know it ceased to exist and so did mankind. A new race, the Manavas, now exists on Bhoomi, the erstwhile Earth, which is divided into two cities—Madhavpur and Ayudhpur. In the quiet and peaceful city of Madhavpur, a reclusive Krishna is busy with an immense task. He has to prepare a new abode for the Manavas before an impending apocalypse destroys them. He knows something that nobody else does—the Manavas are running out of time faster than they can imagine and there are no inhabitable planets to escape to. To make matters worse, there is someone in Madhavpur who wants to destroy Krishna and subjugate each Manava. The Manavas, it seems, are doomed. Yet Krishna knows there is a slim chance of survival for the Manavas, although there is a huge price to be paid for it. Will the various factions of the Manavas unite for the greater good? Will Krishna, who saved them during the turn of the last Yuga, be able to save them now? What will be the price to pay? Enter the mythical world of Maha Vishnu and get swept up in a fast-paced suspenseful narrative.

We have all heard about global warming and how it's effecting our earth and how in the long run it will do us all in. Right?
We have also read the conspiracy theories and the 'conspiracy theories'. But this book is very different, it tells the story of the world that comes after world we now know is no more. It's long after our earth is no more and this new earth called Bhoomi has come into existence. If one has to give a rough estimation it will come around 2 million years past 2050. Man, the most modern one at that has been replaced by Manavas but his problems remain the same. At least if one concentrates at the very basic points.
We have a smart and interesting and very intuitive chap, Krishna. And take my word for it, you would love to have a chat with him but given he is not busy with his work or thinking about Radhika.
I enjoyed this book alot. Technically it marks the end of 2018 for me, which is incidentally a big coincidence. Not saying anything more, cause otherwise I will start giving spoilers.
In short, me a not so big lover of Lord Krishna, really loved him here and that deserves a big 5 on 5 stars.
Would also love to thank @arpitbakshi  @rupa_publications and @readersarcadia for this wonderful book

Review Diaries (The Werewolf Prince And I By: Marian Tee)

The Werewolf Prince And I By: Marian Tee

Ask anyone who knows me and they will tell you I am a romantic, a big, fat, idiotic rom-com loving moron who loves living in her dream world. They will be absolutely true in their deduction. I am a silly willy romantic fool and will want to be no one else.
And that my friends is my new year resolution for next year, to be myself and indulge in decadent narssissim all year round.
Now coming back to the book, Marian Tee is love. I have read a lot of her books but honestly I love Domenico Moretti most. I know, I know, I am not supposed to have favorites and say they are all good but nopes not gonna happen. I love Domenico, he is the kind of person who I see myself falling in love with, scratch that I am in love with him. Not cause he is perfect, but cause of all his imperfections. He is too arrogant, too stubborn, too ruthless, too pretty (yeaps you heard it right, my Dom Dom is a pretty boy), but I will accept him with all his warts and boils and drool-worthy abs and riches.
Today I read
1. The Werewolf Prince And I - Book 1.
2.A ROYAL HEARTBREAK-The Werewolf Prince and I, Book 2
3. MY WEREWOLF HUSBAND - Book 3.
Given a chance I will collect all the books in this series, my Domenico has lots of siblings you see and so does Misty(his darling wife), and read them again and again cause they will make you fall in love and raise your standards incredibly high, cause if someone doesn't love you with everything they are then is it even love?
Ps books like this are the reason I think I will die single but happily in love.
QOTD - What's your new year's resolution?
AOTD - As I mentioned before I am gonna put my best foot forward and love myself like I love chocolates.
#paranormalromances #werewolflove #MorettiPrince #lovestory #booksarelove #newyearresolution #selflove #narssissim #chocolate

Review Diaries (Two Leaves And A Bud by M A Chacko)

Growing up, I have had always heard of a lot about the then political scenarios and how it would effect the future. I had no clue what they meant and found it very easy to ignore them. But reading Two Leaves And A Bud by M. A. Chacko has helped me join the dots.
About the book-
In Two Leaves And A Bud, M. A. Chacko shares his rich insights into the lives of the Syrian Christian community of India. Three distinct stories weave their magic in this novel: The first, The Faithful Husband, stars Seby, a true Sunday Christian, who has acquired land from the Malabar Namboodiris and contrives to retain the land for his family, using any means.

The protagonist of the second book is a young Catholic boy from Kerala, who sets off for greener pastures to earn a living as a construction worker. Chacko fluently discusses the interplay of family, values, society, marriage, dowry, and property on the day-to-day life of the community.

The Holiday, the final book in this trilogy, is a day in the life of Raymond, who wanders through old haunts in Goa on his day off. With its leisurely pace and graceful style, The Holiday gently touches ethics, culture, politics and religion in this multi-cultural tourist hotspot.

Now my take on it-
As I said before, I was noy very politically inclined nor well informed about any thing politics. But that completely changed when I was in Grad School, big culture shock and all that bling. I then took it upon myself to know about the past and then decided whom to support and whom to reject. The reason I am saying all this is very simple, this book is real. I mean the stories that we are told might even not be fictitious, they are that real and relatable. The stories are about love and greed and intelligence bordering cunningness. It's about society and values and the stark truth of every day life. It's about what goes on in one's mind and how different things are on the 'other side'.
My only problem with the stories where the sudden endings. Otherwise I would have gladly given this wonderful, 'wholesome' book a big 5 on 5 stars. The endings, came too soon at least that's what it was for me. I guess my love hate relationship with short stories continues on.
QOTD - If given a chance to go back in time, what's that one political decision that you would love to change and make it better?
AOTD - How much time you got? I have a long list!
Ps thank you M. A. Chacko and @writersmelon for this amazing book

Review Diaries (Snipers Eye by Mainak Dhar)

QOTD - Do you enjoy watching action movies like The A-Team or The Expandables or are you a rom-com buff?
Me? I love a bit of both. So this book made my day!
It had thrills and chills on one hand annnnnd romance and love and devotion on the other.
Trust me it was like watching a movie but in words!

About the book-
I was out on a date. Everything was perfect… Till that shot… a high-calibre one, no apparent sound. And, the man in front of me fell. A rifle with a suppressor? A sniper in the middle of a Mumbai mall? As the body count mounted, I was soon sucked deeper into the chaos unleashed by that shot. To survive and save those whom I care about, I have to become the man I left behind. I have no choice but to tap into a bloody past that has put me on the terror kill list. I may also have no option but to join hands with the sniper terrorising Mumbai. The problem is that the man has sworn to kill me. In a world where the young and poor kill and die in conflicts started by the old and rich, I and my unlikely companion finally discover the thin line that separates a mere killer from a hero. This is our story…

My take-
I really really really liked it. The cover, for one, looks superb! Gives you a small preview of what comes next! A smart hero with a brave soul but tortured past. An intelligent heroine with a heart of gold. And one hell of a super villain who is not what he seems!
So yeah, I loved it.
Trust me you would too.
Ps mine was a signed copy from the author, cause I won #SnipersEye giveaway by @writersmelon
Thank you!!!
And this book is a big 5 on 5 star.
Ps @mainakdhar Sir, does  actually exist?
If he does can I have his number?
I have a friend (read me) who will be prefect for him.
:)

Review Diaries (Tea Time For The Jilted Lover by Prachi Sharma)

Tea Time For The Jilted Lover by Prachi Sharma
Who likes thrillers???
I do.
Who likes an unputdownable book???
Meeee.
Who likes some serious twists and turns???
Again Me.
And if you are saying yes to all these questions, guess which book you would love???
Tea Time For The Jilted Lover by Prachi Sharma.

About the book-
Homi Palsetia is a bestselling and acclaimed thriller writer. Living in a posh bungalow in Pali Hill, he's also single, debonair and charming male, believing only in no-strings attached relationships for fun.

Having just released his seventh book, he feels he's being stalked by a woman who claims to be madly in love with him. He gets blackmailed on the phone, and feels someone is visiting him at night, spying on him.

The media says he's faking it to promote his book. He himself can't be sure.Things get more complicated when Czech-Spanish acclaimed author Alyna Escobar, from Castilla in Spain, comes into his life. Intelligent, bold and beautiful, she challenges his ways & makes him think about love and commitment. However, their camaraderie is threatened by the stalker, who claims to want Homi all for themselves.

Is Homi actually being stalked by an obsessed fan? Or it is part of his imagination? Will he change his Casanova-like ways for Alyna? Will Alyna accept him despite his history with women? If the stalker is real, what do they want? Will the police ever catch them? Will Homi learn their identity?

Now my take on it-
I had real fun with this book. Homi kept reminding me of this twin of mine, who I have recently adopted. I mean who doesn't like a charming guy, who oozes with confidence, is easy on the eye and writes like a Champ. Homi is likeable, may be a little too much. He is one of those broken bad boys who very girl dreams of fixing, without being bad. He drinks tea, (me likey), can cook (me likey even more) and has a chip on his shoulder (me likey way too much). He is someone you really wanna be friends with. Now I loved the narrative and the easy flow of the story. Be it bringing a new character in or exploring their interests, the author has done a good job. The crimes are well executed, opps, I mean explained and the descriptions are very vivid. Inshort I loved it.
So I, Manali Dey, would love to give Tea Time For The Jilted Lover by Prachi Sharma a big hopping 4 out of 5 stars and a big pat on the back. Grear Job!!!

Review Diaries (Fireside Chat with a Grammar Nazi Serial Killer by Ryan Suvaal)

QOTD - Do you ever decide to read a book by seeing it's cover or reading the name?
AOTD - Actually this is my answer for as long as I live, hell to the yeah... So when I was asked if I would be interested in this book, I nodded. You might fell like what's so strange about it, you see I was over a mail and I went on nodding cause that's how excited I was. And it was one wild ride!!! It was amazingly beautiful and nerve wreckingly exciting.
About the Book-
Fireside Chat with a Grammar Nazi Serial Killer: A psychological thriller with a female protagonist by Ryan Suvaal. This psychological thriller with a female protagonist is a short story, 7000 words long. The book is currently available as pre-order on Amazon, and is going live on 21st December this year, across all marketplaces. You can pre book it at  - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L8J4SYJ

Seventeen gruesome killings across the United States, within a span of six months and there was one clear connection among victims. They were all book authors.
While media was decorating the murders with sensationalist stories, and law enforcement was playing catch-up, the homicidal maniac remained elusive and secretive.
Things got very interesting, however, when one day she decided to appear on an internet talk show for an honest fireside chat. Her reason for being on this show was not a quest for fame, but something much more disturbing.
Now my take on it-
I didn't like it or love it, I simply adored it. A female serial killer, who has style and class and sass all working for her... What more can I ask to make it worth my while? Oh I know I know. It's gotta have an amazing story line and good flow and some interesting twists. And guess which boxes this book ticks on... All of them.
I loved it.
Don't believe me? Here's an excerpt from the book-

So, one evening, when we were all in our rooms, my foster mom sent a WhatsApp message to my foster grandpa that read, “Let’s eat, Grandpa,” an innocuous message to call Grandpa downstairs for dinner. He liked to have dinner early. Except she made two mistakes. First, instead of sending this to Grandpa, she sent it to our internal family group. And, second, she forgot the comma in the message. She sent, “Let’s eat Grandpa.”
Can you see where this is going? Each one of us gets the message, “Let’s eat Grandpa,” just before dinner time. And we were a family of cannibals. You can imagine what happened after that. A small grammatical mistake can lead to disastrous outcomes.

This was an awesome read that gets 7 out of 5 stars!!! I heart you, girl (from the book of course).

Review Diaries (The Slut Chronicles by Kritika Sharma)

Book - The Slut Chronicles by Kritika Sharma
I am loud, brash and opinionated but rarely judgemental,cause I believe no one has the right to judge any other human being if they haven't walked in the former's shoes and led their life. And slut shaming, oh wow! Those creepy people have their very special spot booked right next to Satan when time comes. *deep breath in and out *
I was very intrigued by the title and ended up giving it a read. I had to stop quite a number of times to drink water and cool myself but the girl from the book did me proud.

About the book- “What is love, if not a passionate heartbreak?” Nothing makes Ishana lose her facade except for the word ‘slut’. When someone slut shames her, she smashes his head and becomes headlines again.
She is at the apex of her career but people are not ready to accept her boldness. Her strengths force them to dwell on their own weaknesses. However what no one knows is that her road to success is full of treachery and emotional hell.
Join Ishana as she narrates her story to an oblivious journalist. It is a roller coaster ride full of love, passion, emotions, betrayal and ‘slut shame’. Are you ready to endure the truth of her life?

My take on the book-
Book 1 has raised my expectations to a level where I am waiting for the next one to come out like my life depends on it. Ishana can be any girl we know, hell it can even be one of us who have trusted our teenage crushes with our tender hearts and they all but trampled on it cause they weren't capable enough to handle precious heart cargo in the first place. I have also been in her friends' place and defended my friend's honor but honestly one thing I have learnt after seeing my friends' relationships and it's that if you don't wanna see the truth - no one can make you.
So needless to say I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next one.
This book deserves a big 5 on 5 star and a pat on the back. You go girl!!!

Review Diaries (An Autumn Turmoil by Sourabh Mukherjee)

An Autumn Turmoil by Sourabh Mukherjee.
Status - 5 on 5 stars.
I am a Bengali, born and brought up in Calcutta. So this story is something I can relate to, on more than a 100 levels.
Synopsis -

Durga Puja is two weeks away and Kolkata is ready to burst into festivities. Abhishek arrives in Kolkata from Australia, along with his wife Atreyee. Shubho, an Engineering student, is his cousin. Atreyee is in desperate search of the passion that is missing in her marriage. Shubho loves his childhood sweetheart Jhimli, but finds the thrill missing in their relationship of years.
When Shubho and Atreyee meet, sparks fly. But what starts off as a secret festival romance soon gives way to jealousy and possessiveness. Will their passionate autumn romance change the lives of Shubho and Atreyee forever?

My take on it-
As I said before this story is something that talks about something very close to my heart. The rest of the world talks about Summer Time Love, while we Bengalis have our festive love times, like Durga Puja and Swaraswati Puja. Growing up I had seen many such festive love stories bloom, some made their way to a happily ever after, while others choose the never ever option. And the curious cat that I am always wanted to know what really happened. Many a times I got the story, while at others I was told I was too little to understand which is just a polite way of saying 'mind your own business'. But this story out here gives me closure, for all those times I didn't know what went wrong.
This is story about love, the one's we love, the one's who love us and finally the one's we would love to love. Give it read, trust me you will love it too.
So, I, Manali Dey will gladly give An Autumn Turmoil by Sourabh Mukherjee a big 5 on 5 stars and some much sort after rosogolla, read the book you will know what I mean.

Here’s tge link... 

An Autumn Turmoil https://www.amazon.in/dp/B07GXM724H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ze5aCbKRG90HQ

Review Diaries(The Gift by Sourabh Mukherjee)

Name of the book - The Gift by #SourabhMukjerjee
Status - 5 stars out of 5 stars plus a bag full of candies...
Synopsis -
After his bitter break-up with girlfriend Ishika, Aarav heads for his ancestral house in Mussoorie to get over his grief and to finish the novel he is working on. He meets Kishan, a child who has strayed into the house and spends his nights in the dusty, dark attic, scavenging through old books and toys that once belonged to Aarav and his cousins. Aarav finds his uncle’s diary, which chronicles a heart-warming love story unfolding in that house. What life-changing family secret does Aarav uncover...
My Take-
I loved it. The book is not even 50 pages, 45 if you count the contents pages but the story is of some 39 pages. So essentially it should be called a short story, right? WRONG! In those pages the writer has not only described his situation or his uncle’s but he has essentially drawn a picture so vivid that one gets it all in one go. The descriptions are so life like, it's almost like seeing it all happen in front of you.
There are two parts in the story which are woven together with some really good writing craftsmanship.
And some parts were so goosebump worthy that I had to stop for a second to check if someone was looking at me.
All in all this is one of those must reads, that you havta havta havta read. Don't take my word for it, go check it out yourself. 

Here's the link-

An Autumn Turmoil https://www.amazon.in/dp/B07GXM724H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_MLsaCbFE6BWV9

This book has the thrill of a short story with the essence & fulfillment of a novel.
So, I, Manali Dey will love to give The Gift by Sourabh Mukherjee a big 5 on 5 stars and lots of candy.

Review Diaries (An Old Enchantment by Amanda Browning)

An Old Enchantment by Amanda Browning.
Book 1 on my Mills and Boons #readathron and incidentally it's also the first Mills and Boons book I read when I started reading them during my first year in college.
Synopsis -
Maxi was the black sheep of the family, and her return was not welcomed. What hurt was her father's and sister Fliss's frostiness - that of Kerr Devereaux was of no consequence to her : he could believe the same, Maxi had to agree to Kerr's suggestion that they appear to be lovers. What was strange was his kiss - it was so familiar. And what was alarming was that she liked it - very much...
So back to my take on this book, I love it. Not only cause it was my first M & B but also cause it was an adorable romance. As we all know there are many different kinds of M & B s like Romance, Desire, Doctors, Royalty etc. My favorite till date is Romance. And this book has it in spades.
A strong heroine, who doesn't need some prince to save her. And on the other side of the ring we have a handsome hunk, with a huge chip on his shoulder. And whenever they are together sparks fly!!!
But wait, this isn't all sugar, spice and everything nice. There are bad men, silly jealous sisters and stiff-upper lipped fathers.
All in all, this brings back a lot of nostalgia cause I am pretty sure I ended up imagining my own Mr. Right to be like this chap.
So I, Manali Dey, will love to give An Old Enchantment 5 on 5 stars. Trust me, you will love it.
QOTD - How do you imagine your soul mate be?
AOTD - I want someone who understands, respects and encourages me. Cause anyone can fall in love with me (wink to the narssissist in me), cause I am too darn cute, but I need someone who not only rolls with my crazy but also knows when to rell me in.

Review Diaries (Victims for Sale by Nish Amarnath)

Victims for Sale by Nish Amarnath.
Do you like thrillers?
Do you love yourself some strong women characters?
Do you enjoy taking down evil people who should be shot at sight?
If you answered yes to all the above questions then give this book a read.
Every time I come across a fast paced plot I become a bit apprehensive about the handling and hope that I don't miss out on any interesting stuff. But this one was a treat.
And the twists, oh my my!!!
They were amazing.
Quick QOTD - Are you someone with very little patience and are guilty of jumping to the last chapter to see if your predictions were correct?
Answer- I am guilty as charged.
But even if you are, guess what!
You can't skip this one to the end, cause it's un-skipable.
So I, Manali Dey, will love to give Victims for Sale by Nish Amarnath a big candy filled - 5 on 5 stars.
Good work!

Review Diaries (Regular Porridge by Sukanya Basu Mallik)

Question of the day - Have you ever been cut to ribbons by something you read?
I think that's not just the question of the day, it's more of a question of a life time.
I still remember the when I had my first brush up with war poems, Seigfried Sassoon. Our teacher had asked us to find one movie or story that potrays what war is for us. I choose' Saving Private Ryan', I still remember getting a star for my project.
But Regular Porridge by Sukanya Basu Mallik made me cry. Wars are fought not only by the soldiers, it effects the people around the war zone too.
For the past couple of days I have been caught up with things in a very materialistic way. You see it's my birthday coming up but now I feel so shallow about it all. I mean just imagine what can we do if suddenly our hometown is an active war zone.
The poems don't just make you feel things, it makes you realize that to never take peace and quite for granted.
I did love this book and given my deep love for poems I will gladly give Regular Porridge 5 on 5 and Sukanya Basu Mallik a warm hug. If I an this emotional just reading it, I can't imagine what you went through writing it all.

Review Diaries (Love is for life and beyond by Yashwant Kanodia)

They say love is blind, that loves does not hold a grudge and forgives all. And that's the best way to describe Love is for life and beyond by Yashwant Kanodia. It's about best friends and family, it's about medical emergencies and it's aftermath it's about heartbreak and solace.

The protagonist is a young chap, who sounds a lot like many of my friends. Ambitious yet with principles , dreams high but is grounded. With his first love, he shares all his firsts but gets caught up in life.

I have seen way too many relationships like this one where people on both sides end up driving each other further and further away without realizing what they did wrong. Sometimes they take solace in work, while at other times they find it in the warmth of someone else's. It can be a sibling or a friend or a new relationship 'opportunity'.

I have been kinda harsh for I find cheating to be the worst sin ever. The world is filled with many beautiful blessings but when you commit to someone you should stick to it. There are problems everywhere but that doesn't justify cheating, like never ever.

The story being from only one point of view gives the boy's story so for me even with a happy ending it feels like its still unfinished. So, I, Manali Dey will love to give this book a hooping 4 on 5 stars. 

QOTD- Can you forgive someone for cheating on you?

AOTD- I don't think so. Knock wood. I hope when I am finally in a relationship, it has honesty and courage so that we can talk about anything and everything under the sun, including our missed out communications or wayward attraction.

Quick Note- Finding someone attractive is okay but doing something about it is evil and demented.

Review Diaries (The Alpha Yeti by SUM?)

Question of the day - Do you sit a place and read or like me you dance around the whole house when  you read a book that's really good and your excitement is too high to hide?
Book- The Alpha Yeti by SUM
Status - 5 on 5 and a big Yipeee!!!
Yeah no points for guessing I loved this book.
My name is Manali and for those of you who don't know Manali is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It's beautiful and cool and mesmerizing and whenever I visit there I get free ice-creams. I have always been very curious and inquisitive. I would roam about and wander all around and make friends with strangers. My parents were worried so my Nani read me the story of the evil Yeti who eats little girls like me or as I was back then. So did it stop me from wandering around, no I just started carrying a paper and pencil so I can ask the Yeti questions.
So when I hear of a book that is called The Alpha Yeti but obviously I was interested. And boy oh boy did the author deliver. It's an exciting first part to what's bound to be an interesting series.
Every character is not only well written but also they are well established. Another thing I really loved about this book is the description of the relationship between a father and daughter. Remember Liam Nelson from Taken, yeah this guy can give him a run for his money.
And the Yeti was... Well I can't go any more in the story or else I will end up giving you spoilers, which I don't want to, cause who doesn't hate spoilers. Not me. I hate spoilers. So off you go and pick up this amazing book by SUM - The Alpha Yeti cause it will blow your mind.

Review Diaries (Tarikshir The Awakening by Khayaal Patel)

Question of the day - Stand alone or Series ?
When I read a book I read, eat, breathe and even sleep it. I imagine it all happening in front on me, not literally infront more like actively happening in my mind. And #Tarikshir takes the cake. Like OH MY GAWD (full Janice voice). The descriptions were amazing. Every single character was well thought out and very well established. It has everything that one expects in an epic. There is a King and Queen and a Prince and a kingdom big and strong. There are villains both living and undead. There are super powered allys and evil magical masters and a little bit of romance too.  I have read my share of modern day twist to old mythological stories of past but this one is the one that everyone should watch out for. A fast paced-page turner, this book will give you a taste of thriller mixed with folk stories and healthy dose of horror.
Nothing will be as it seems and good grief there is a major cliff hanger. Incidentally I finished this on on Halloween. Cue in the scary music.
Personally I loved the book, I enjoyed every single moment I spent with it. But I wanna talk about something IMPORTANT. Like the pros and cons of series VS stand alones with reference to #Tarikshir
Pros- Series are nice. They enlighten and entertain you with a lot if cool news, views and stories.
Cons- There are cliffhangers that make you wanna punch people in the face.
Arghs !!!
In simple words I loved the book and am excited for the next one. Hopefully it will be out soon. #fingerscrossed
So I, Manali Dey, will love to give Tarikshir The Awakening by Khayaal Patel a big 5 on 5 and big bribe of chocolates. Please write the next book soon or at least tell me what happens next.

Review Diaries (The Love Curse or Arrow Heart by Rebecca Sky)

Have you ever been in love?

Wait! I take that back, stupid question.

Of course you have been in love, sometimes it works out while at other times its DISASTROUS. And many a times it's one sided or as I call it first stages of being a masochistic person. And boy oh boy, if you grew up in India with Bollywood blaring it's head off on how wonderful your love is if you suffer for or from or the best of it all have it both. Yeah, if you detect heavy sarcasm there you are right or else I am loosing my sarcastic touch. Darn it!

Anyhu so when you see the love of your life- your lobster- your one and only (at least that's what it felt like for me) not give you much attention, you hope for a miracle so that they too fall for you. You hope for a day when your grandkids would ask him about your love affair, your crush turned husband would proudly say with a coy smile 'Your grandma made me fall for her. One moment I was dating this other chick and then poof! I see your grandma and it was like magic.' and then you two happily live together... forever!

Yeah, happened to you too, right?

So imagine if someone could actually do it. Now broaden your mind and imagine that an all girls' school teaches its special students this art form of making any guy dance to your tunes, quite literally with a kiss of love. *wink wink*

But your protagonist isn't like you and me. She believes that love that comes out of magic isn't real. She wants true love. 

Arrow Heart or The Love Curse by Rebecca Sky was a wonderful read. And I am eagerly waiting for book 2 in the series. I must add this that when I bought the book, it was known as Arrow Heart. So searching for part 2 I came across The Love Curse only to find it was the same book with a different name. Needless to say I was a little disappointed but eagerly awaiting for the next one.

And I, Manali Dey, would proudly give this book 5 out of 5 stars. Love you Rebecca Sky, please finish the next book fast... Pretty please!