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Showing posts from September, 2024

The Midnight Library

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Author: Matt Haig  Genre: Literary Fiction Traits: Take on depression, self harm, self rediscovery  Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY       "The Midnight Library" is a beautiful book by Matt Haig which presents the reality of mental health issues in their raw original forms. The story follows Nora Seed, an ordinary woman with a mundane boring life who is convinced that her life didn't turn out as it should have. She feels unaccomplished and is slowly slipping away into the abyss of depression. As her condition further deteriorates,she could no longer find her life worth living hence, she takes the plunge and commits suicide.       But even after swallowing an excessive dose of pills, Nora Seed isn't dead yet. She wakes up and finds herself in the middle of an infinite library where each book allows her to live a life where she made a different choice and find her perfect life.       With v...

The Forty Rules of Love

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Author: Elif Shafak  Genre: Literary fiction  Traits: Explores the intersection of love, spirituality and self growth.  Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY       "The quest for love changes us" same like the book changed the whole meaning of love. This book tells the story of Ella Rubinstein, a housewife who feels unfulfilled and disconnected from her life. Her world changes when she reads a mysterious book about Rumi, the famous Sufi poet, and his spiritual companion, Shams of Tabriz. As Ella delves deeper into their story, she discovers the 40 rules of love, which become a guiding force in her journey towards self-discovery and spiritual awakening.      Through beautiful prose and masterful storytelling, we experience the transformative power of love, friendship, and spirituality. The novel seamlessly weaves together past and present, East and West, and spirituality and everyday life.       "The 40 ...

Veronica decides to die

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Author: Paulo Coelho  Language: English  Genre: Physiological Fiction  Traits: Heavy themes (suicide, mental illness, mental asylum), life, positivity  Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY      The book starts with the protagonist, Veronica, attempting on her life. But she doesn't die and wakes up in a mental asylum. She is told that her suicide attempt has caused an irreversible damage to her heart and she has only a week to live.       The story takes us on a journey alongside Veronica as she goes through the last week of her life. She befriends other patients in the asylum. To her surprise she finds that many of them don't need to be there at all, they choose to stay of their own accord. She also falls in love and learns about life, as do we. The poetic quality of Paulo Coelho's writing evokes a bitter sweet feeling as the story progresses.It ends in a staggering plot twist that is sure to blow the reader's mind....

Velpaari 2

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  Author: S.Venkatesan Genre: Historical fiction  Traits: Socially relevant, Rural setting, Cultural significance, Philosophical undertones, Tamil identity, Literary fiction  Language: Tamil Click here to be redirected to BUY       The epic journey continues in Velpaari (Part 2) by S. Venkatesan, diving deeper into the life and legacy of the legendary Paari Vallal. This installment beautifully captures the cultural richness and heroic valor of Tamil history. The narrative, filled with emotion, honor, and sacrifice, keeps you hooked from start to finish. Venkatesan's storytelling is vivid, painting a picture of a time long gone but not forgotten. If you're a fan of historical fiction and enjoy tales that celebrate our heritage, this book is a must-read. The way the author brings ancient Tamil culture to life is simply mesmerizing. Velpaari(Part 2) is not just a story; it's a tribute to our ancestors and their undying spirit. R/W Rating:- 9.2/10 Goodread...

If he had been with me

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  Author: Laura Nowlin  Genre- Contemporary fiction Traits- Romance Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY      If he had been with me by Laura Nowlin is about Finny and Autumn, who were best of friends in childhood but now they are indifferent to each other in high school. What actually happened between them, nobody knows except them. Their past remains a mystery known only to them. Since they are neighbors and also go to the same school they see each other almost everyday. As neighbors and classmates, they frequently cross paths, but Finny now has a girlfriend, while Autumn still harbors deep feelings for him.      Written from Autumn's perspective, the book explores her emotions, love and longing for Finny. Although the book moves slow but the story unfolds seamlessly. Towards the end, the pacing quickens, making the story even more engaging. Although we know the ending of the book from the beginning, it doesn't seem like it would...

Velpaari 1

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Author: S.Venkatesan Genre: Historical fiction  Traits: Socially relevant, Rural setting, Cultural significance, Philosophical undertones, Tamil identity, Literary fiction  Language: Tamil Click here to be redirected to BUY      Velpaari is a remarkable historical novel by S. Venkatesan that transports readers to the ancient Tamil era. The story of Paari, one of the legendary Tamil kings, is told with vivid detail and a deep sense of respect for the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. The author's research is evident in the way he intricately weaves history with fiction, bringing to life the landscapes, traditions, and characters of that time.      Venkatesan's narrative is gripping, filled with the valor, wisdom, and generosity that defined King Paari. The book not only celebrates Tamil history but also leaves you reflecting on the timeless values of honor, bravery, and leadership. Each chapter is a window into a bygone era, making it a mu...

Yellowface

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Author: R F Kuang Genre: Literary Fiction Traits: Satirical, Reflective, Critical Language: English  Click here to be redirected to BUY      Yellowface by R F Kuang is a sharp and provocative novel that explores the complexities of cultural appropriation, racism, and the cutthroat world of publishing. The story centers on June Hayward, a white, struggling author who envies the success of her more accomplished friend, Athena Liu, a celebrated Asian-American writer. When Athena dies unexpectedly June seizes the opportunity to steal Athena’s unfinished manuscript, edits it, and publishes it as her under her new pen name “Juniper Song”. And as expected the book was a hit and suddenly June’s dream of living Athena’s life came to life. As she enters literary stardom, she grapples with guilt and increasing backlash from readers and critics who challenge her right to tell a story rooted in another culture. She is constantly bullied and accused on social media, Twitter and Go...

A Second Chance

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Author: Sudeep Nagarkar Genre: Contemporary Romance Traits: Emotional depth, modern setting Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY      It's a story of two people, broken by their hurtful pasts, who somehow find their lives intertwined. Over time, this leads them to a path of healing and new beginnings.      The story shows that life can bring happiness in the most unexpected times. The protagonists are depicted with realistic emotions and struggles, which makes it easy to connect with them. The storyline is predictable yet engaging. It would leave you wondering if one should take a second chance. R/W Rating: 5/10 Goodreads Rating- 3.79/5 (As on the date of publishing of the post) R/W rating: Anukriti

The Wrong Bride

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Author: Catharina Maura Genre: Romance Traits: Angst, Arrange Marriage Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY      This book was my first work from Catherina, and I can safely say I'm obsessed. About the plot, this is about Ares Windsor and his extremely messed up love life and marriage life. Raven Du Pont one of the most career driven women as a supermodel is the FMC and she has to make a difficult decision, one where she has to choose between family and herself.      This book carefully showcases how people the closest to you could also be your enemies. He's forced to marry his fiance's sister because his fiancee leaves him at the altar. But as they navigate through their marriage they realise how entwined their pasts have been. As they uncover so many lies and truths they realise how close they've grown. But when difficulties arise they face them stronger than ever. But as their love and marriage is tested, they fall in and out but don't wa...

Archer's Voice

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Author: Mia Sheridan  Genre: Fiction Traits: Contemporary Romance Language: English Click here to be redirected to BUY       Archer's Voice narrates the poignant tale of a woman grappling with the haunting impact of a disturbing memory, and the profound impact of a man's unwavering love in setting her free from its grasp. The story eloquently portrays the silent suffering of a man and the transformative effect of a woman's support in empowering him to find his voice. While I found the author's writing style a bit unconventional, the character of Archer, a socially awkward and sheltered man, deeply resonated with me due to his endearing innocence and gentle nature. Additionally, Bree emerges as a resilient and resolute character whose presence adds depth to the narrative. This novel poignantly delves into the theme of loneliness and notably marks the first time I encountered a mute protagonist, adding a poignant layer to the storyline. If you're searching for a h...

Married Lovers

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Author : Jackie Collins Genre : Contemporary Fiction  Traits : Strong Female Characters , Complex Relationships, Family Dynamics  Language : English  Click here to be redirected to BUY      Three high-powered Hollywood couples, two hot affairs, one underage Russian ex-hooker, a passionate murder and the players lives are changed forever.      Cameron Paradise, a stunningly beautiful twenty-four-year-old personal trainer, flees Hawaii and her champion-surfer husband, Gregg, in the middle of one of his abusive trades and makes her way to L.A. Tall, blond, with a body to die for, it doesn't take Cameron long to find a job at an exclusive private fitness club where she encounters LA's most important players. She has plans to open her own studio one day, and while every man is targeted in her, she is more focused on saving money and working hard than getting caught up in the L.A. scene of wild parties and recreational drugs.    ...