tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64372879664311747772024-03-20T22:20:55.328-07:00D-ReviewGet the review of latest Books, Magazine, Movies, Music, Games, Gadgets & all that stuff you are ready to spend your money on !!Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-59424894230564068512015-05-10T05:10:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:09:17.034-07:00Capturing Wildlife Moments in India<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2zkljlKcbMRIsCbQvY0ylo84Za3DOu529cmm8z6tDqbuOJ2lq0qmoNvRwZbw1LO6vfg_pp3xOu60YSls0TX-PBL4tC4V9UPrxLiUOz2XYeivfPSrop1q3fVeRdIuiBUAhA9LwxpjRRmM/s1600/Book+Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2zkljlKcbMRIsCbQvY0ylo84Za3DOu529cmm8z6tDqbuOJ2lq0qmoNvRwZbw1LO6vfg_pp3xOu60YSls0TX-PBL4tC4V9UPrxLiUOz2XYeivfPSrop1q3fVeRdIuiBUAhA9LwxpjRRmM/s400/Book+Cover.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Title: Capturing Wildlife Moments in India</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: Ashok Mahindra</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Oxford University Press</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Non-Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.in/gp/product/0199460507/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=3626&creative=24790&creativeASIN=0199460507&linkCode=as2&tag=dreview-21&linkId=VFZOPNSXGI7H4B6N"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-in.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dreview-21&l=as2&o=31&a=0199460507" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Capturing Wildlife Moments in India" contains 120 photographs of animals and birds of India, photographed from visits to over 30 parks,sanctuaries and other locations. </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This book is being published by Oxford University Press(OUP) & Bombay Natural History Society(BNHS).The book will be available at most of the major retail outlets across India and also through online retail sites like Amazon, Flipkart etc.It will also be available for sale through the BNHS website and is priced at Rs.1450 </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Good photography does not restrict itself in just capturing the moment but to capture a real moment and present it as beautifully and vividly as one’s imagination. Capturing Wildlife Moments in India by Ashok Mahindra is a prime example of such presentation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This coffee-table book contains over 100 photos of animals - from Bengal Tiger to Lion-tailed Macaque, from Nilgai to Hoolock Gibbon and birds – from Black-capped Kingfisher to Painted Stork, from Blue Jay to Pallas’ Fish-eagle collected from over 30 locations of Assam, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and many other.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7pls65HhhKW67Vjb8fo4WbhyphenhyphenFTAS6XwYjA7wFm1Pm_nT09j8HaMyCHHypGo_0eifiup07QvXqlt1x0OHhWWFoN555VyVcCXQwEEvl9WAmzZtNj4H2ubfHwSPjJkFUgpulRxU1jNwxlg/s1600/Image+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7pls65HhhKW67Vjb8fo4WbhyphenhyphenFTAS6XwYjA7wFm1Pm_nT09j8HaMyCHHypGo_0eifiup07QvXqlt1x0OHhWWFoN555VyVcCXQwEEvl9WAmzZtNj4H2ubfHwSPjJkFUgpulRxU1jNwxlg/s320/Image+1.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Along with animal’s common name, location and their importance in particular state all the photographs also captions IUCN status of the species. The equipments and photographic technology used is also mentioned along in some tricky photographs which is beyond my inept understanding but might be quite useful to budding photographers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Apart from the photographs, the book also features wildlife hotspots, interest places to stay and details about concession packages for school visits; helping in expanding the tourism and thus the growth and preservation of wildlife. Author understands the concern that if nothing is done to preserve and defend the wildlife there will be a time when these animals can be seen only in such books. He has also pointed out what threats some species are facing and firmly believes that inspiring young adults of our country can make a great change in present scenario and give India’s wildlife a future. Overall it is a good book created for a greater cause. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_f-hgD6G6ZsCfS7X0swDK1lzu9V49OL83KrdlnS0NiOyKLKocQQ0Hj8bz49YFr3l4fQjyFt7hWzQCWypBNm0bR4HbKRIhOP0iE6bQscB9ihmGZpOmqdcUzdqE52M1wKMADcFlKYkfSYQ/s1600/Image3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_f-hgD6G6ZsCfS7X0swDK1lzu9V49OL83KrdlnS0NiOyKLKocQQ0Hj8bz49YFr3l4fQjyFt7hWzQCWypBNm0bR4HbKRIhOP0iE6bQscB9ihmGZpOmqdcUzdqE52M1wKMADcFlKYkfSYQ/s320/Image3.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Photography, like every other art, should be unburdened with the concern of how much trouble the artist went through or what he/she is trying to say or even how the art looks like; all that matters is how it makes you feel. If you have affection towards wildlife or nature at its best, only then this book will be a justifiable recommendation for you. In this age where millions of pictures are available on the internet just a few clicks away and ebooks are making coffee-table books obsolete, such books acts only as a display artifact unless you are a passionate collector.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This post is a part of the book review program at <a href="http://www.saevus.in/">Saevus Wildlife India</a> in association with <a href="http://www.wildlifephotographybyakm.com/section713150.html">The Hemchand Mahindra Foundation</a> for <a href="http://bit.ly/CWMIBR">Capturing Wildlife Moments in India</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a free ebook copy of this book from the Saevus Wildlife India for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
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</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-80686740134010799002015-03-14T22:27:00.002-07:002015-03-14T22:27:24.238-07:00The Best Lesson<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Do you believe in The Butterfly Effect? Everything you do have a rippling effect on the universe in an unimaginable way? I am not sure about that. But I am sure about one thing, every person you meet, every conversation you have, always have an impact on your life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Professor Amey (I am not mentioning the last name intentionally) was my Biology teacher in higher secondary. Biology was never my one of the better subjects, still I scored 91% in my board exam because of him. (I scored 87 in English and 95 in Physics, just bragging.) </span></div>
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How? Because of Amey sir. He is the most charismatic teacher I have ever encountered. The only reason why any student feels a lecture boring is because the subject is monotonous for the teacher; but Amey sir used to teach everything with so excitement, like he had discovered it for the first time, in the class itself. He had a voracious style of teaching which can grip attention of every student and to top it all off, he was gifted with a decent sense of humour (which is kind of hard to come by in the species of lecturers). </div>
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I still remember the time when he was taking a class while his wife was in the hospital delivering their first child. Who does that? Who misses such an important personal moment? I definitely couldn't do that. That's the height of professionalism for me. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I was in my first year of Engineering when I received a call from him. He said he wanted to meet me, so I went. I came to know he got laid of from the college due to some inner politics he wasn't keen to discuss. He was working part-time at some coaching classes. I asked him why he wanted to see me and he said, 'just to catch up'. I asked him why me and he said that he always reconnect with his old students whose contact info he has to get acquainted with their career choices and to guide them. This man was going through a big change in his life but he spared time just to know what's happening with hundreds of his past students? Again, who does that? </span></div>
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I don't remember much of the conversion, it was 8 years ago and mostly consist of me babbling about my college, my interests and future prospects, while he listened patiently. But I do remember some of the things he said. </div>
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These might not be his exact words but what I could recall best and translate: "Never underestimate yourself. People will undermine you on every chance they can get. Don't give them this chance. If you don't respect yourself, no one will and if you doubt yourself, everyone will. Remember, you'll never get what you deserve, you'll always get what you think you deserve. So dream bigger, aim higher, be greedy, there is nothing wrong about that until you are not hurting anyone. Set your standards way beyond your ability and give you hundred percent and then some, just to be sure, and everything will be perfect." </div>
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He was one of the best in his field, struggling in life, still he said these words with such authority that I just sat in awe. I respected him a lot already but he just gave me a hundred more reasons.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That was the last time I saw him. I called him after my graduation. I came to know that he is working as a head of his faculty in one of the best colleges of city. He congratulated me and I congratulated him. It has been 4 years, I haven't get to talk to him since then, I might after finishing up this post. No matter how hard you try sometime it is just too easy to lose contact with people. Still their words always remain with you. Even now whenever I feel down and disappointed, I remember my encounter with my most favourite teacher and refill myself with the spark I had seen in his eyes that evening. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Do not forget to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lookup">#lookup</a> <a href="https://housing.com/">https://housing.com</a> for more avenues of dreaming big <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/together">#together</a>.</span></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-57213663294564028402015-03-11T04:02:00.001-07:002015-03-11T04:06:40.150-07:00#StartANewLife with Change<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The only constant thing in the universe is change. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When someone asked Paulo Coelho what he wants written on his tombstone, he said, “He was alive when he died.” Isn’t everyone? What Coelho meant was most of the people spent their entire life surviving it… not living it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Take me, the writer of this post, for instance (an obvious choice). I get up every day to work the job I hate so that I can make money barely enough for my expenses and go to bed every night feeling tired for nothing and a mild resentment because I know tomorrow going to be the same as yesterday and nothing I do matters. But, that was me last year. Now something is changed. I am changed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Its true people never really changes, but we can grow, get matured enough to appreciate the life and understand the incomprehensible thought of morality and fragile nature of time. Almost every friend of mine and any acquaintance I got a chance to share my thoughts with would agree that one of the worse things one can do with life is make it monotonous. Maybe that’s why the word routine starts with the sound of rut. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Even with all the dates passing by and so much new to explore, don’t we always feel like we are stuck at a place and can’t move forward. The reason behind this feeling is that our brain thrives on change. Something new always brings a prospect of opportunities and excitement. That doesn’t mean change is not scary. It is horrifying, but that’s what makes us feel alive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We all have responsibilities we can’t ignore; everyone has duties to fulfill, so we can’t take a long vacation to our dream holidays. But that don’t mean we can’t take out time for little things that makes us happy, little things that would make us appreciate our lives more, enrich our otherwise boring days and give us new dreams for nights. What is that thing for you? </span></div>
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<a href="http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs39/f/2008/348/c/b/Magic_book_by_Mar_ka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs39/f/2008/348/c/b/Magic_book_by_Mar_ka.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The thing that worked for me is art. I just made one promise to myself on my last birthday, that whether I ever save enough for my dream of travelling around the globe or not, I won’t push back anything on tomorrow thinking that ‘I’m not ready yet’ or ‘there will be time’. These excuses have wasted a couple of years of my life and I refuse to waste anymore. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I read books; lots of books. I watch international shows and movies. I write. I have learned to play harmonica. I am learning Spanish. These little things which I do in the evening 7-10 have not only improved my everyday but also facilitate me with an optimistic attitude towards my profession. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Life hardly works like movies, where you decide you want to change and everything is different. Change works gradually and as every traveler knows, the journey is the best part. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Enjoy the work you do or find something else for your amusement, life is too short for living the days dreading. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So now take your life into assessment, what do you want to change? What would you like different? And work for it as much as you can or as little as you can, but from Today, cause there really is no tomorrow. Start living your life today, create the world you want to live in and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StartANewLife?src=hash">#StartANewLife</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Do remember to check <a href="https://housing.com/">https://housing.com</a> for more inspiration. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Image credit: <a href="http://mar-ka.deviantart.com/">Mar-ka</a></span></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-69251878211944508712015-03-10T03:07:00.001-07:002015-03-10T03:07:59.653-07:00Hope - An Essence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Many things are essential to live and survive in this world: food, health, protective shelter, clean air to breath. The other essential thing, the most underrated one, is hope. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Merriam-Webster defines hope as ‘to want something to happen or be true and think that it could happen or be true’. Again one of those times when words feel inept. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwmd3mgCQCJYeg-tWrAVgiVIGBBnrRNstbgLY6RPfBVp8AOdWfEmhfDvtbE_IPRSM302-WgdcHVnRHBLnbPLo2Jfs3aQx3QufxkiG-GCqU5DSJ5HHlVl6ohXjZcRUOVAmT3cpEn5wiYM/s1600/hope_by_blueshining-d53gld2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwmd3mgCQCJYeg-tWrAVgiVIGBBnrRNstbgLY6RPfBVp8AOdWfEmhfDvtbE_IPRSM302-WgdcHVnRHBLnbPLo2Jfs3aQx3QufxkiG-GCqU5DSJ5HHlVl6ohXjZcRUOVAmT3cpEn5wiYM/s1600/hope_by_blueshining-d53gld2.jpg" height="400" width="271" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the war of optimists, pessimists and neo-world realists, hope is an unfathomable force which inspires us to do great things, drive us to push our boundaries and perhaps the most important tool in the quest of achieving our dreams, even when everything is lost. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is always easy to find hope because it never really leaves us. It is visible in the stories of every successful person we know; it is hidden in books, movies, songs, paintings and all the art around us; it is scattered throughout the globe binding every human with moral zeitgeist. Like time, hope knows no discrimination of rich-poor, color, cast, creed or even intelligence. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then, why are there times when we are down? Why there are ‘failures’ after failures? Why depression causes over a million suicides every year? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In times of letdown, if you are not finding hope, then you are looking at wrong places. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The stories of our generations’ idols, whether it is Stephen Hawking - a living genius fighting with a dreadful disease, Malala - an ordinary girl struggling for her rights, Living legends like Shah Rukh Khan or innumerable sports icons that have battled their past to achieve greatness through their work, are awe-inspiring. But I like to find hope in small random places. This post is to share one such place with you. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCD7PNRBc1Bxde_Xz6ZUg0kCV3PwxPUsYescg0L7893fu6iHD0Kg5uauEMt_j7IJ54-v7x8WOTqntF3JUhOCk_qCzhrIti1D9PfC2HlbkORaUWUGLHCvmDcQ6XS8PJCQIrw0Tj0J4ezA/s1600/Moore-480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCD7PNRBc1Bxde_Xz6ZUg0kCV3PwxPUsYescg0L7893fu6iHD0Kg5uauEMt_j7IJ54-v7x8WOTqntF3JUhOCk_qCzhrIti1D9PfC2HlbkORaUWUGLHCvmDcQ6XS8PJCQIrw0Tj0J4ezA/s1600/Moore-480.jpg" height="400" width="290" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I wanted to kill myself when I was 16.” This was a part of Graham Moore’s Oscar acceptance speech. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On being honored with the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay of 2015 for The Imitation Game, Graham Moore exposed his heart and said he always considered himself weird and was depressed enough to attempt suicide in his teenage. This 33 year old son of two lawyers who divorced and then married two other lawyers had quite a challenging boyhood. From a mere technician working on Garnier shampoo’s ad to a bestselling novelist to Black List topper, he proved his worth against all odds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moore got his hope from Alan Turing and as evident by his words, all he want is to forward that torch of optimism to others. His speech filled audience’s heart with exalting emotions and spread a wave of optimism through over 200 million viewers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If he can, then I can. If I can, then anyone can. With hope, the world is filled with optimism and everything is possible. So <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lookup?src=hash">#LookUp</a> at the sky and get ready for your flight. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do remember to check <a href="https://housing.com/lookup">https://housing.com/lookup</a> for more aspirations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image credits: Hope art by <a href="http://blueshining.deviantart.com/">BlueShining</a>. Photo of Graham Moore © <a href="http://oscar.go.com/">Oscar</a></span></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-67460263130405187152014-09-29T02:03:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:10:48.622-07:00Private India<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsOzq3X1bGSxTy4SbKRvjBe7bp9zo855oXdw6J2P_ipbktapS8E02MZ85_7HQYYhso0eg7IHNqcTCTENrThc-tK8f2O8S9lOxn6G6gfOx4XQN1vQCsh8dEZvx9c5_aeD-ndcuS0dSG2U/s1600/pi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsOzq3X1bGSxTy4SbKRvjBe7bp9zo855oXdw6J2P_ipbktapS8E02MZ85_7HQYYhso0eg7IHNqcTCTENrThc-tK8f2O8S9lOxn6G6gfOx4XQN1vQCsh8dEZvx9c5_aeD-ndcuS0dSG2U/s1600/pi.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Title: Private India</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: Ashwin Sanghi and James Patterson</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Random House</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.in/gp/product/0099586398/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=3626&creative=24790&creativeASIN=0099586398&linkCode=as2&tag=dreview-21&linkId=IY2WGZ6M6BFROOZN"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Private India is a race against time thriller to save thousands of lives, embarking on the trademark of James Patterson’s writing style with an Indian scenario by Ashwin Sanghi. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The opening pages remind you of the serial bomb blasts in Mumbai and the plot thickens with every chapter creating an intriguing web of serial murders and terrorist plots. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Santosh Wagh is a private investigator who runs a firm ‘Private India’, when he is not battling the alcohol. He and his team are hired to solve a series of ritualistic murders that gets complicated on an exponential rate. His quest to find the killer before it is too late and his deductions to unravel the mystery forms the whole stratagem of the book. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />I was very excited about this book, not only because of James Patterson’s name on the cover but also due to my high anticipation from the 4th book of Ashwin Sanghi, and it will be safe to say, I was not disappointed. James Patterson has involved with 8 books of Private series published so far: Private by Maxine Paetro, Private London by Mark Pearson, Private #1 Suspect by Maxine Paetro, Private Games by Mark Sullivan, Private Berlin by Mark Sullivan, Private L.A. by Mark Sullivan and Private Down Under by Michael White. Private India is not the best of the series, but could be easily placed in the top half. Without a doubt, the best from Ashwin Sanghi yet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There was a time when one of the rituals reminded me of the show ‘Castle’ and then the appearance of James Patterson on that show. I count it as a big pro of this novel. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author has very carefully knitted the sublime backdrop of Mumbai. The underworld, politics and religious intricacies forms a strong subtext in this otherwise another brick in gruesome-murders wall of whodunit. With a sea of movies and TV shows presenting bizarre display of dead bodies (What happened to make it vanish? Seems like no one is interested to hide it anymore, the message has become more important than the murder.), one would think that writing has lost its charm in this regard; this novel is one of those which prove it has not. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There is only one drawback I found and it is not a minuscule one. The flow of the book is not steady. There are many times when I am grasping for the narration to slow down and many times I am bombarded with too much detail, uncalled for the progress of story. This mixture of paces diminishes the novel’s re-reading value. That said it’s a quick read anyway. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Recommended for Patterson fanatic/ Private series fan and any casual reader of Crime/Mystery genre. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Blogadda for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-27535135516560341902014-08-30T02:06:00.000-07:002014-08-30T02:06:45.748-07:00Sufi Comics Rumi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXvywU2Oel90GHjL2M3b19VL8J6Ty6eaqsjpE_sng2eQqGsmy_x-Zd64UL39if_7R_de-u7XNk2xrGO230kPOQEryRm7_k23IwRPRDQkaecJD-1A6YUA4_-jKPoE7GFPj6bm7-lqtYT2o/s1600/rumi-book-perspective.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXvywU2Oel90GHjL2M3b19VL8J6Ty6eaqsjpE_sng2eQqGsmy_x-Zd64UL39if_7R_de-u7XNk2xrGO230kPOQEryRm7_k23IwRPRDQkaecJD-1A6YUA4_-jKPoE7GFPj6bm7-lqtYT2o/s1600/rumi-book-perspective.png" height="261" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Title: Sufi Comics Rumi </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Author: Mohammed Ali Vakil & others</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Sufi Studios</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Graphic Novel | Spiritual </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sufi Comics Rumi is a graphic novel comprising short stories inspired from poems of Mawlana Jalaladdin Muhammad Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, jurist, theologian, and Sufi mystic. Recreating time-honored illustrations, Persian translations and verses from Quran written in calligraphy, this book falls in the category of Aesop’s Fables and Panchatantra. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The book contains a small introduction of Rumi followed by 11 stories: </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTFmem-gALiP1u1xA-dfIN1jZSU3l0WBXTdvLb-apbfEyW3BzM70Sgw7AGW5w1yy02Avc5P44Wq33RpxcU6HlBH1decnq8tYLUYADNNjf5qFp8Gy2gFvNcjgQdLMWMwhEHu6nIHzFY68/s1600/Untitled1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTFmem-gALiP1u1xA-dfIN1jZSU3l0WBXTdvLb-apbfEyW3BzM70Sgw7AGW5w1yy02Avc5P44Wq33RpxcU6HlBH1decnq8tYLUYADNNjf5qFp8Gy2gFvNcjgQdLMWMwhEHu6nIHzFY68/s1600/Untitled1.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Tattoo Artist</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Keep Your Dragon in the Snow</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">True Consciousness</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Elephant </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Quarrel about Grapes </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Trickster </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">False Thinking </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grief is Worth More than the Empire of this World </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Serpent </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">You are the Macrocosm </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since you are I</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A tale crafted with simple words and deep moral lessons works as a gemstone. Given the eye-catching aesthetics of the book with light reading, I highly recommend this book for bedtime stories. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">More Info: <a href="http://www.suficomics.com/rumi">http://www.suficomics.com/rumi</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-73545610176429861282014-08-15T22:30:00.000-07:002014-08-15T22:32:53.679-07:00Giveaway: The Time Machine<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_JVClchP4n3lOGCNmgfDV8047jsFxP_WjYnGtubi2izuURKiJPoBhTZBM9WfhJEHvpKJDr3-p1ocGI2RMyIj36jC7ZSuGn1qdINAgd6uzsaPZli5LR-sN7XI9IPoOO9TwJBz1SrUnts/s1600/HG+Wells+-+The+Time+Machine_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_JVClchP4n3lOGCNmgfDV8047jsFxP_WjYnGtubi2izuURKiJPoBhTZBM9WfhJEHvpKJDr3-p1ocGI2RMyIj36jC7ZSuGn1qdINAgd6uzsaPZli5LR-sN7XI9IPoOO9TwJBz1SrUnts/s1600/HG+Wells+-+The+Time+Machine_2.jpg" height="400" width="277" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">The Time Machine by H. G. Wells</span></u></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chilling, prophetic and hugely influential, The Time Machine sees a Victorian scientist propel himself into the year 802,701 AD, where he is delighted to find that suffering has been replaced by beauty and contentment in the form of the Eloi, an elfin species descended from man. But he soon realizes that they are simply remnants of a once-great culture - now weak and living in terror of the sinister Morlocks lurking in the deep tunnels, who threaten his very return home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">H.G. Wells defined much of modern science fiction with this 1895 tale of time travel, which questions humanity, society, and our place on Earth. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/s4hvhkuyso9kqq6/The%20Time%20Machine.epub"><span style="color: red;">Download Epub</span></a> </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: Project Gutenberg</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Disclaimer: All the books featured in Giveaway section are free from copyright and falls in public domain. It is completely legal for you to download, print, share or reproduce these books as you please. </span></i></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-17463515595278395182014-07-20T02:29:00.001-07:002014-07-20T02:30:31.640-07:00Zest of my Life<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The dictionary definition of Zest is: (n.) great enthusiasm and energy. But like every other word in queen’s language, zest is too defined by the perspective and varies from person to person. As suggested by Team BlogAdda, here is my list of five things that I think add Zest to my life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Movies of SRK</i></b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My favorite actor is also the most popular one in the world. Coincidence? Maybe or maybe I just have a great taste. Shah Rukh Khan is not only a very inspiring figure but his movies are always entertaining and a bit different from the Bollywood rut. That’s the reason why apart from Hollywood movies and TV shows I always watch his movies whenever I am feeling down, and he always lives up to the expectations. Meeting him one day is probably the best zest I could get in my life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Books</i></b> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoKrnOTmT3wW2_8YSG4O1rxqwRlGwGURTqcNvIPh7geVsgCQBiYxLUvvqDJuTrU5KJs-xyF1KlhoXif5QPQfd1cwhdJEf7jEWXIJ-SieKx9hcvsdqQJSvbTL0_lloggrL9Xg6DVkNQ_4/s1600/Caspost-Libraries-thomas-fisher-rare-book-library-university-of-toronto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoKrnOTmT3wW2_8YSG4O1rxqwRlGwGURTqcNvIPh7geVsgCQBiYxLUvvqDJuTrU5KJs-xyF1KlhoXif5QPQfd1cwhdJEf7jEWXIJ-SieKx9hcvsdqQJSvbTL0_lloggrL9Xg6DVkNQ_4/s1600/Caspost-Libraries-thomas-fisher-rare-book-library-university-of-toronto.jpg" height="233" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you haven’t seen other posts of this blog, just look around and you’ll know why this thing is here. As said by a great mind, books are portable magic. They not only enhance your knowledge, aptitude and emotional stability, nevertheless also provide a better understanding of the outside world. All these while entertaining you. God, I can’t live without books; Gutenberg is the greatest inventor of all time, Tesla has to come second. Spending endless hours in the National Library will redefine zest for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Drive</i></b> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9JDh3mYfQyb3RHyVRLdwcOE7AdnBM3gaEeNc468J8H4NkOVkQrB_DAoMjFT_XmPY_IQdz09kIbd23uvCCULOE95mt9qS7mvVbPJnFNx0-DqI5DwfKo65hOlJ0QzMv_uWdPB4d1Rd5iA/s1600/tata-zest-front-cross-side-view-120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr9JDh3mYfQyb3RHyVRLdwcOE7AdnBM3gaEeNc468J8H4NkOVkQrB_DAoMjFT_XmPY_IQdz09kIbd23uvCCULOE95mt9qS7mvVbPJnFNx0-DqI5DwfKo65hOlJ0QzMv_uWdPB4d1Rd5iA/s1600/tata-zest-front-cross-side-view-120.jpg" height="224" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A scenic drive with world moving all around you, escaping the present while wind howls, what could be more exciting and refreshing than that? ‘Hank Moody driving in the sunset’ always gets me wonder. The thought of driving a fast car on LA highway or the roads surrounded by farms in SF fills me with energy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That said, don’t drink and drive. Drive responsibly as you never know which dog, cow, kid or some lunatic will jump in your way on Indian road. Be safe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Amusement Parks</i></b> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNLOufzYgT7-0OBgDZDKIj_ebdzio1k_KSqz-_r6DRy8ZaePKrGxoQYlSQv6z2xZAm3OuiaZfyhYMIKYD6xWQPfONDLyh1GwOoW4_UtxHaXS0cCxLf3YU9Glm-VYxqygLFbW2d5r2BFc/s1600/photo11.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNLOufzYgT7-0OBgDZDKIj_ebdzio1k_KSqz-_r6DRy8ZaePKrGxoQYlSQv6z2xZAm3OuiaZfyhYMIKYD6xWQPfONDLyh1GwOoW4_UtxHaXS0cCxLf3YU9Glm-VYxqygLFbW2d5r2BFc/s1600/photo11.png" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">First I thought I’ll include just the roller coaster ride, although now I think the entire atmosphere of a carnival fills me up with enthusiasm. I’d gladly settle for merry-go-round too. Amusement parks bring out the child in me and I do miss that child. I heard Orlando, Florida has Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, Seaworld, Universal’s Island of Adventures and Discovery Cove; I’d love a visit there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Blogging</i></b> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRh_nOpW_tGQ0Mytiavjxpq3sWRjAKy0tCzlifOtuLheZ8Y-WrnlzcRGLidzVSCHuYO5y7wrpc6jelhlTKhoPdTxASCiHSg_kqgW-eKzOZtxBNglUqmnEEGNHh7d25DwJpntzMMi327GM/s1600/blog-blogging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRh_nOpW_tGQ0Mytiavjxpq3sWRjAKy0tCzlifOtuLheZ8Y-WrnlzcRGLidzVSCHuYO5y7wrpc6jelhlTKhoPdTxASCiHSg_kqgW-eKzOZtxBNglUqmnEEGNHh7d25DwJpntzMMi327GM/s1600/blog-blogging.jpg" height="235" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well, this has to be on the list. The most obvious reason why I am sharing my thoughts on a global platform is because I love doing this, not just to expand my knowledge however to explore and feel connected. Blogging is the best provider of adrenaline rush, especially to lonely sociopaths like me (just kidding, no offence to lonely sociopaths). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well, that’s my list. Don’t forget to share yours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This post is a part of the <a href="http://zest.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="Zest Up Your Life">#ZestUpYourLife</a> activity in association with <a href="http://tatamotorszest.com/" target="_blank" title="TATA Motors Zest">TATA Zest</a> and <a href="http://www.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="BlogAdda.com">BlogAdda.com</a>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: xx-small;">Zest brand and images rights reserved with TATA Motors, SRK pic © Excel Entertainment, Red Chilies Entertainment and Reliance Entertainment. Other images are from internet and may assert their own rights. </span></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-37821050290826389572014-07-19T05:41:00.001-07:002014-07-19T05:42:41.847-07:00My Black Wishlist (Part II)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When BlogAdda spawned the idea in my head of my very own Black Wish-list by starting #WhatTheBlack trend, I created <a href="http://d-review.blogspot.in/2014/07/my-black-wishlist-part-i.html">one</a> consisting of all the expensive items. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now here is the second Black Wish-list featuring the stuff I will surely get my hands on in a not-so-distant future. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWzchDMAdvCP2SXIn_zjjWXc1LP1i3m6Di5pFKdNjddTwcJdKPmrFLgsJdypT_yuN9TYLFb2hVUet_KNb-73Yis0UKfOJllRxgQd7sl5qYgStxEuTCnmzotTx9jDls5R2XT32ddZNMQI/s1600/barney-stinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWzchDMAdvCP2SXIn_zjjWXc1LP1i3m6Di5pFKdNjddTwcJdKPmrFLgsJdypT_yuN9TYLFb2hVUet_KNb-73Yis0UKfOJllRxgQd7sl5qYgStxEuTCnmzotTx9jDls5R2XT32ddZNMQI/s1600/barney-stinson.jpg" height="200" width="135" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Armani Men's Collezioni Suit </u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My dear friend Barney Stinson is asking me to ‘Suit up!’ from past decade and now is the time. And what will be a better option than Armani’s Collezioni Suit Solid Black Tone. Made of Virgin Wool, double breasted and having side vents, yup, let’s suit up!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Ipad Air</u></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQeGCX26-uSIQ-8H2ItE6zn6jTR68YePjDhuHUMvTfQTw2TD7qpIaqp3u7KotfxvhYAV7EG2VJ-dus4aSqKmOGROHwP2J_llIq7ZsouvpP0Rd7U9-HWMEIk5ozUKrjTENs2OfNrWdaHo/s1600/Untitled-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQeGCX26-uSIQ-8H2ItE6zn6jTR68YePjDhuHUMvTfQTw2TD7qpIaqp3u7KotfxvhYAV7EG2VJ-dus4aSqKmOGROHwP2J_llIq7ZsouvpP0Rd7U9-HWMEIk5ozUKrjTENs2OfNrWdaHo/s1600/Untitled-1.png" height="97" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Apple’s latest offering in the Tech-world: Ipad Air is much more than just a tablet. The 10” screen is powered by M7 processer and runs on iOS7. The black finished, thin and light as air tablet is a pioneering device. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Moto X - Black</u></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1GmXYw8RG9Er4Sse9dGFAsUHfV0GJy3XXLFllECgN2nffXgabIpfGZxPZKuPQDzrxKUhf0DCNgvvZB8sd5cd1i1hbBg5R_B-5R75Svm5QVzX6JZA4xP0ify6xy-hU8ae1AZwx7brUTc/s1600/motox-non-glare-270.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1GmXYw8RG9Er4Sse9dGFAsUHfV0GJy3XXLFllECgN2nffXgabIpfGZxPZKuPQDzrxKUhf0DCNgvvZB8sd5cd1i1hbBg5R_B-5R75Svm5QVzX6JZA4xP0ify6xy-hU8ae1AZwx7brUTc/s1600/motox-non-glare-270.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Newly revamped (Now Google’s) Motorola has already tilted many scales of sales in smartphone market and their best offering till date is Moto X. This not only excels in performance but is a gorgeous handset emanating charisma from every contour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Seiko Sportura</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Seiko Sportura – Kinetic GMT is a bravura watch with designer looks and radiating allure. Also, Seiko has recently become official brand partner of my favorite team Kolkata Knight Riders. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>MIB DVD Collection</u></b> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtPB8cbg9bTjEf24HoDgFOJHnA4GJbBmJxzz09M3-sb9e-Y6zgyFL0GRQVAsmxIf6-H-7D0z_dhjfxhgWQcOAJ8n6P2vPam-vga8q_tScLKGzHpCT4rCwi69KaipQ8Ldq8c1Ph72zSdI/s1600/mib_de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtPB8cbg9bTjEf24HoDgFOJHnA4GJbBmJxzz09M3-sb9e-Y6zgyFL0GRQVAsmxIf6-H-7D0z_dhjfxhgWQcOAJ8n6P2vPam-vga8q_tScLKGzHpCT4rCwi69KaipQ8Ldq8c1Ph72zSdI/s1600/mib_de.jpg" height="200" width="181" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No list on Black is complete without a tribute to our beloved protector of the world, Men In Black. This movie trilogy has a impressive story flow and great VFX, thus making it a collectible for movie lovers like me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A footnote: Purple is not the new Black. Orange is definitely not the new Black. The binding beauty and bountiful buzz is and will always be borne by Black. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well folks, that’s my Black Wish-list. Don’t forget to share yours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This post is a part of <a href="http://whattheblack.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="WhatTheBlack">#WhatTheBlack</a> activity at <a href="http://www.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="BlogAdda.com">BlogAdda.com</a>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-70623497418385470282014-07-19T03:58:00.000-07:002014-07-19T03:58:12.016-07:00My Black Wishlist (Part I)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dreaming and making a wish-list is the most pleasant activity for anyone, no matter how dark your wishes are (no gruesome pun intended). So when BlogAdda started #WhatTheBlack trend and offered a chance to post your own Black Wish-list, I couldn't pass on that. In fact, I went a step ahead and created two. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is the first part of my Black Wish-list containing all those items I’d be able to afford only if Hefner made me heir to his enterprise (which is doubtful as he don’t know me). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWz5Rs1qfJ5xSmnWZdu9n0IxA8Lw3oeA6wngM-E_y5SlWORi2mgqjdq0_ldUihBgq5VkbXy20w8kIKhADQ1HGQcplAZL0SKnKUHZpZOgu7ISvRlE_APudkO4WbPZYZyE0Mb7Ln4v6hylU/s1600/zoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWz5Rs1qfJ5xSmnWZdu9n0IxA8Lw3oeA6wngM-E_y5SlWORi2mgqjdq0_ldUihBgq5VkbXy20w8kIKhADQ1HGQcplAZL0SKnKUHZpZOgu7ISvRlE_APudkO4WbPZYZyE0Mb7Ln4v6hylU/s1600/zoom.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Porsche 911 Carrera 4S</u> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Porsche is not only my favorite brand of automobile, for me it means a perfect combination of style and power. This bold, beautiful and Black model has power of 400 hp and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. With a top speed of 300 km/h, this drive can change the way you see the world. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS52Sa2Va5cvQF6SCjaq2gsb7G-GbNU-vfwPBERMpV88HlPQV2tXqA3xQM_ZynfrkGceCf6m6X1YSzIZH-AMTaFewxYqOVJgWiFDPgb5-19G1Nb-v-5q1BxLiLvsZNjtx0dLcgTzp9lLU/s1600/WEB_ZOOMGC_3_CAV518B.FC6237_LARGE_large.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS52Sa2Va5cvQF6SCjaq2gsb7G-GbNU-vfwPBERMpV88HlPQV2tXqA3xQM_ZynfrkGceCf6m6X1YSzIZH-AMTaFewxYqOVJgWiFDPgb5-19G1Nb-v-5q1BxLiLvsZNjtx0dLcgTzp9lLU/s1600/WEB_ZOOMGC_3_CAV518B.FC6237_LARGE_large.png" height="200" width="119" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Tag Heuer Grand Carrera</u> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tag Heuer is the Porsche of watches, maybe a bit ahead and Calibre 17 RS2 is a vivid example of this. Loaded with Sapphire Crystal and a dozen of patented technology, the dazzling elegance this automatic chronograph emits is breathtaking. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Nexus 5</u> </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cAwTeT9HOIAz0BPzGyfL7Wnc_8oyTJVdc98OsxcTb6Yrejs_Fjaojx3FuROE_rWX2upK9zdZkoqT0yZaEieBJT8CXUatXD9mB38AcLvVFHfoBxyrCGFoJGI3thiW6LIi_cztjkSRHuU/s1600/unnamed.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cAwTeT9HOIAz0BPzGyfL7Wnc_8oyTJVdc98OsxcTb6Yrejs_Fjaojx3FuROE_rWX2upK9zdZkoqT0yZaEieBJT8CXUatXD9mB38AcLvVFHfoBxyrCGFoJGI3thiW6LIi_cztjkSRHuU/s1600/unnamed.png" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Google has given the world many wonders including this latest smartphone. Nexus 5 comes with the most advanced and user friendly Android OS and the hardware to support every task expected from the user, including the new camera which takes lens-blur photos. Even when the market is cluttered with so many options, this is and will always be an exceptional device. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>The Big Bunny</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Big Bunny aka The Playboy Jet is one-of-its-kind. Many engineers were not impressed by the thought of making a Black colored jet, but Hugh Hefner was firm on his dreams and behold, the world witnessed a new form of luxury. From Bed to Movie Theater and from Swimming Pool to Disco, this jet redefined the term extravagance. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyop7gEucxUs_VaN_mbxvqtPqiLYp7xZvv9Wa4NXVYUeAhh7kg9qHilllmUjqF4Tksc_cQXB046ICVBs92NA7fRf0ZifchO1eSmk6IXSTaYdpyyicvc5wV-Ez2b1fzGGnEjKLJYnaxTDw/s1600/61S2j5hUVrL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyop7gEucxUs_VaN_mbxvqtPqiLYp7xZvv9Wa4NXVYUeAhh7kg9qHilllmUjqF4Tksc_cQXB046ICVBs92NA7fRf0ZifchO1eSmk6IXSTaYdpyyicvc5wV-Ez2b1fzGGnEjKLJYnaxTDw/s1600/61S2j5hUVrL._SL1500_.jpg" height="131" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><u>Black Beauty</u></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Black Beauty by Anna Sewell was the first book I read. If you ever want to check if you are doing great in life (at least financially) see if you can buy a horse. No, there is nothing girly about it, I am not asking for a pony but a black, splendid & marvelous horse or mare. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacPuv5yQulmwQcb0DUntwHUfDpDoUzTT-NYaO0QfPtOGpMX6jPsCYURJywI9evDUvQ950hR6BGYd1e1NzcpMm9oaqeIY0Gam6rlqaLheLGWH-4dXGt5P7NTazvzzsAvC8A3GARPcSSyI/s1600/black_horse_wallpaper_1440x900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacPuv5yQulmwQcb0DUntwHUfDpDoUzTT-NYaO0QfPtOGpMX6jPsCYURJywI9evDUvQ950hR6BGYd1e1NzcpMm9oaqeIY0Gam6rlqaLheLGWH-4dXGt5P7NTazvzzsAvC8A3GARPcSSyI/s1600/black_horse_wallpaper_1440x900.jpg" height="432" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This post is a part of <a href="http://whattheblack.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="WhatTheBlack">#WhatTheBlack</a> activity at <a href="http://www.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="BlogAdda.com">BlogAdda.com</a>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-69361944527879963892014-05-01T07:43:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:16:26.013-07:00Be Careful What You Wish For<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsO2wk4RRX-Evm0MtQ_pI_AvBmZrtZb9cyUBIBSECFmALMkC8O1lUGdl-nL-IPpeMnNLsRh7GnTimf9ezOLV2gE1yGF7LznackKNB8mUJOdR2WEXA1CVne6ACqxggsCfOjxFYnuf2TMQ/s1600/be-careful-what-you-wish-for-400x400-imadsm4j66arwurb.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsO2wk4RRX-Evm0MtQ_pI_AvBmZrtZb9cyUBIBSECFmALMkC8O1lUGdl-nL-IPpeMnNLsRh7GnTimf9ezOLV2gE1yGF7LznackKNB8mUJOdR2WEXA1CVne6ACqxggsCfOjxFYnuf2TMQ/s1600/be-careful-what-you-wish-for-400x400-imadsm4j66arwurb.jpeg" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Title: Be Careful What You Wish For</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: Jeffrey Archer</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Pan Macmillan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.in/dp/1447265092/ref=nosim?tag=dreview-21"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Be Careful What You Wish For is the fourth installment of Jeffrey Archer's Clifton Chronicles. Following the legacy of Clifton-Barrington family, this novel is another commendable work of spinning yarns. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In a frail attempt to take revenge with Sebastian Clifton, Don Pedro Martinez ends up killing his own son, which fuels up the fire within and he pledges to destroy both the families. While he recruits Major Alex Fisher to induce corruption in their shipping business, Emma Barrington Clifton is trying her best to keep up with all the perfidies and disruptions as the head of family business. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lady Virgina’s influence over Jessica’s in-laws and Sebastian’s recovery from the accident making him mature and conscientious, forms other sub-plots of the story carefully entwined with a new character Cedric Hardcastle, a Yorkshire banker; all augmenting to a fast-paced ride with twists hopping out at every other page. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Even though every review mandate a comment on writing style and narration, if there is any exception to this rule – then this is it. Author is famous for boiling powerful stories with easy words. Though I am a bit disappointed to hear that the original 5 part series now may contain 7 or more parts, I have not witnessed any lethargy in the narration and I am happy to read as many books as the writer has to offer unless the story flow falls in a rut, which from this point seems quite improbable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Jeffrey Archer always chooses quite appropriate titles for his work. So let the dear readers be warned, not only the characters will feel the painful truth in this saying, ‘Be careful what you wish for’ but also the readers; as this novel too ends in a cliff-hanger. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">With 4 books released and 3 yet to come, it is the best time for a newbie to jump into the world of Clifton Chronicles, penned by one of the greatest writer of our times. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><br />Rating: </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img src="http://icons.iconarchive.com/icons/custom-icon-design/pretty-office-3/32/Star-Full-icon.png" /><img src="http://icons.iconarchive.com/icons/custom-icon-design/pretty-office-3/32/Star-Full-icon.png" /><img src="http://icons.iconarchive.com/icons/custom-icon-design/pretty-office-3/32/Star-Full-icon.png" /><img src="http://icons.iconarchive.com/icons/custom-icon-design/pretty-office-3/32/Star-Full-icon.png" /><img src="http://icons.iconarchive.com/icons/custom-icon-design/pretty-office-3/32/Star-Half-Full-icon.png" /></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Clifton Chronicles</i> - The Story So Far... </span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAH1FpYGKggWsRjsCS5ZG4qK6gqM5TSF1__e-KTPa6vwoEyAMqWeaIk1EM9T0PFRUluYSEPkeEfn_SuISq9axvj5Sr2n8IydScv1qzqHU9mx8wFTn-QoY1zWvx8EQ32TVNuOC08ugUq8/s1600/only-time-will-tell-200x200-imaduv5htggrf7d9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAH1FpYGKggWsRjsCS5ZG4qK6gqM5TSF1__e-KTPa6vwoEyAMqWeaIk1EM9T0PFRUluYSEPkeEfn_SuISq9axvj5Sr2n8IydScv1qzqHU9mx8wFTn-QoY1zWvx8EQ32TVNuOC08ugUq8/s1600/only-time-will-tell-200x200-imaduv5htggrf7d9.jpeg" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Only Time Will Tell</i></b> – This novel, set in Bristol, England, marks the beginning of the saga. Harry Clifton, a young boy of a waitress and a dock worker, has a special gift of song which will change his life. Harry’s mother, Maisie has done a lot of sacrifices for his better schooling and a lot of efforts to hide the truth of his father’s death from him. But when Harry befriends Giles Barrington, whose father owns the shipping company where Arthur Clifton used to work, something revolutionary is put into motion. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTa00an7BFcoWsHB815W3sf10qCtVNJdqT06tBbAWa5OjVuH3EGoQkElkk1A9Rcw3LPuGtXVYMsevZFvuU8WYYUSpRso8vwkIOzFCYpYYsv0CKmOYE7_x7UwoD2U2qVkneR522nmZELA/s1600/the-sins-of-the-father-200x200-imad6qcyxgntdpfu.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTa00an7BFcoWsHB815W3sf10qCtVNJdqT06tBbAWa5OjVuH3EGoQkElkk1A9Rcw3LPuGtXVYMsevZFvuU8WYYUSpRso8vwkIOzFCYpYYsv0CKmOYE7_x7UwoD2U2qVkneR522nmZELA/s1600/the-sins-of-the-father-200x200-imad6qcyxgntdpfu.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The Sins of the Father</i></b> – Harry Clifton in an attempt to flee from his troubles assume the identity of Tom Bradshaw only to end up in prison paying life sentence for killing a man. His love, Emma is on the quest to find the truth about Harry’s death, when she comes across ‘Diary of a Convict’, memoirs written by Harry in the prison. Giles’ misadventure in the army, Harry’s escapades with Pat Quinn, Hugo Barrington’s death and other sub-plots make this an exhilarating page-turner. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-fPgHRtv1gHbOZEfLTO9q2zuel_2ovdYGFtDyfaNK-aqS2GdLyEwSCS_T2y0PceHi_WQwuxJqRRXNpf-oyl5EZawJnuuD05P5yjuN6SnbKTprzj6hOFsu6JiqRRCb5CjQ8FlP_rrtWY/s1600/best-kept-secret-200x200-imadg4edgagqsfnq.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-fPgHRtv1gHbOZEfLTO9q2zuel_2ovdYGFtDyfaNK-aqS2GdLyEwSCS_T2y0PceHi_WQwuxJqRRXNpf-oyl5EZawJnuuD05P5yjuN6SnbKTprzj6hOFsu6JiqRRCb5CjQ8FlP_rrtWY/s1600/best-kept-secret-200x200-imadg4edgagqsfnq.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Best Kept Secret</b></i> – The novel begins with the resolve of Harry v. Giles. Giles’ marriage and divorce with Lady Virgina, politics of Alex Fisher and Parliamentary elections holds most of the book; along with the progress of Harry’s son Sebastian, his friendship with Bruno Martinez and his entrapment in smuggling by Bruno's father and a notorious antagonist Don Pedro Martinez. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-7795141707245139622013-11-29T08:32:00.000-08:002013-11-29T08:32:58.440-08:00A Trip to Island Pineapple<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DZR-SZI4_doux835n1XzemWc49pwJntEIQp2_JTjPI7G9tL69XUetLbiknKB7BMJNMmyGayrX1ZqOsGzIe3amjqihl5OpLrr6nACgB5Hys-8rZ5MY4_IYHaG1CpgDKGTvm4QPOU-pZc/s1600/bacardi-breezers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DZR-SZI4_doux835n1XzemWc49pwJntEIQp2_JTjPI7G9tL69XUetLbiknKB7BMJNMmyGayrX1ZqOsGzIe3amjqihl5OpLrr6nACgB5Hys-8rZ5MY4_IYHaG1CpgDKGTvm4QPOU-pZc/s1600/bacardi-breezers.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Special thanks to Bacardi for releasing six exciting flavors of Breezer: </span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jamaican Passion </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lime </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cranberry </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Orange </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blackberry Crush </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Island Pineapple </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This post is my attempt to prove why Island Pineapple is the best. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What you like Lime? Then make lemonade. I’m sure nobody will feel sorry for a guy claiming ‘life has given me pineapples’. Your choice is Jamaican? That’s so racist, man. They say Cranberry is sissy, but I’m cool, go on. And as far as Blackberry is concerned, I am an Android person. Being from Orange City, I am tired of Oranges already. But Pineapple is a well-deserved choice and here is the proof: </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbLxHUt_S2Rl5oF726c662PoSq5-2xhNM3MAupXyDsZmpZl1jqeDco-7NcJ_XUyz27nkdReIr4wwGMepfOBRbuenJkq7e4DAp82KgKuPhR-unWoNvpOfcXzSL_tIupNycmC4jKqgD7OU/s1600/7983680-pineapple-cartoon-background.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbLxHUt_S2Rl5oF726c662PoSq5-2xhNM3MAupXyDsZmpZl1jqeDco-7NcJ_XUyz27nkdReIr4wwGMepfOBRbuenJkq7e4DAp82KgKuPhR-unWoNvpOfcXzSL_tIupNycmC4jKqgD7OU/s200/7983680-pineapple-cartoon-background.jpg" width="192" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The etymological aspect</i></b> – Pine, an evergreen coniferous tree and Apple the prime fruit makes Pineapple; embarking the freshness and purity. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The morphological aspect</i></b> – It has a wild look with tough segmented skin and crown of a tuft of stiff leaves making it the most macho in the fruitland. You know a kiosk is a Juice center when you see a Pineapple; they never hang any other fruits in the display, no sir. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWXX07SRPID_df3hsuf_bwVC0LABLk78LO8BM0BFoWh4xX-JdpgCxj6MhRfyqGs0QWaz1C4Y3Z7ROy7PZJ84rspExTNjTBZJA9jDwnJM2xIp0xNofR6LjzawfIOdTmpL-19UPhut8E1Y/s1600/Pineapple+Island+Background.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWXX07SRPID_df3hsuf_bwVC0LABLk78LO8BM0BFoWh4xX-JdpgCxj6MhRfyqGs0QWaz1C4Y3Z7ROy7PZJ84rspExTNjTBZJA9jDwnJM2xIp0xNofR6LjzawfIOdTmpL-19UPhut8E1Y/s400/Pineapple+Island+Background.png" width="311" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The social aspect</i></b> – No wonder if its aroma reminds you of Hawaii and lei or some other tropical island. Its bitter-sweet taste will quench your thirst and leave you wanting for more, both at the same time. Making it a perfect choice for celebrations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The media aspect</i></b> – From <i>The Pineapple Incident</i> of ‘How I Met Your Mother’ to ’50 First Dates’ It had played a great part in many stories, now it’s time to make yours with Island Pineapple. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a nutshell or say pineapple’s thorn, if Pineapple ever decided to stand for President, I would vote him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have something to add? Tweet <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23catchtheflavour">#CatchTheFlavour</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">PS: Do remember to check <b><a href="http://www.breezerindia.com/">breezerindia.com</a></b> for cool games (unless you are colorblind). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZv8Z0MvlNNCD3lodZ-8kR7FGkw3OkQmubgfe6Yosde5T8WieT-VnZp0e2FrgRvTA8qkvtjeQeHLpG72va-VoRcjE_NDD15WMtUlCqmeO1_Ub0EZvJXd12b_WlF0J9cjKqeWsQOM9-7o/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZv8Z0MvlNNCD3lodZ-8kR7FGkw3OkQmubgfe6Yosde5T8WieT-VnZp0e2FrgRvTA8qkvtjeQeHLpG72va-VoRcjE_NDD15WMtUlCqmeO1_Ub0EZvJXd12b_WlF0J9cjKqeWsQOM9-7o/s640/unnamed.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Images ©LukasValine & 123rf, Rights of all the flavors, brand names and product images reserved with Bacardi. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Please ignore this post if your age is below 25 years, otherwise, Cheers!!</span></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-32162527746828815602013-10-17T00:05:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:19:09.283-07:00Neil Must Die<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKN_o3Nt7nRw1Ikio0ai5zqqjVIaseroi3XLS7Z_06AINN_N99pnLvyPlR7E1z2eBdt0tnkKfBu8-28KzvOCieSugk3U68bqeJmZllAkh_75ss8Py5t6-U5c6oeuv3LpKSuMYK1Xx4A7U/s1600/neil-must-die-400x400-imadnfnufzrvgc84.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKN_o3Nt7nRw1Ikio0ai5zqqjVIaseroi3XLS7Z_06AINN_N99pnLvyPlR7E1z2eBdt0tnkKfBu8-28KzvOCieSugk3U68bqeJmZllAkh_75ss8Py5t6-U5c6oeuv3LpKSuMYK1Xx4A7U/s320/neil-must-die-400x400-imadnfnufzrvgc84.jpeg" width="250" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Title: Neil Must Die</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Author: Kaberi Chatterjee</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Publisher: Blackbuck Publication</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.in/dp/1426928785/ref=nosim?tag=dreview-21"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Neil Must Die by Kaberi Chatterjee is story of a man’s journey back to home; with the core of an extramarital affair and a pinch of thriller. Neil, a Bengali guy, living with joint family in Calcutta falls in love with his brother’s wife. The angst of such love and self-guilt forces him to run away but there are deeper dark valleys in the world outside for him to succumb. News of a coming life changes things and he decides to return home and face his future or whatever left of it because Neil must die. Why? Okay, let’s be spoiler free. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">What is with extramarital affair? Why so many writers are interested in it? That was my first reaction after reading the blurb. And yes, I have the answer after reading the book but it has nothing to do with the concept of taboo love. It takes real talent on writer’s part to create average characters, put them in grey slots and still make the reader feel pity for them. The characters of Neil and Tuli are beautifully woven and keep you engrossed in the tale. Generally, a hardcore Drama fiction drags a bit but the subplots included by author makes it a fast paced novel. But what really make you to turn the pages is the impeccable narration and interesting story-flow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Counting the cons; even where the author is a woman, I felt the female characters in this novel unreal and their actions unjustified. I understand, what fiction is if not leap of faith, but still at some points I felt detached from the story due to this and… There is a list of Glossary attached at the end of the book giving definitions of Bengali words and phrases spattered across the novel. Most authors like to say, they include slangs to give shade to characters (or regional background in this case), I am not satisfied with this answer. For instance, when your read Hagrid’s dialogues written by JKR, it is not bad language and you get a good enough idea about how the big guy is. Also, if you come across a phrase ‘niceta meetcha’ you won’t only know what he meant (nice to meet you) but will also get a hint on his ethnicity. I firmly believe it is high time for Indian writers to incorporate such dialogue techniques instead. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are a few scenes which could be categorized as obscene, but I didn’t find anything offending. Hence, overall it is a decent read for everyone but specially recommended to fans of Drama genre. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">3.5/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-19605495864947351372013-10-04T00:36:00.000-07:002013-10-18T00:40:13.917-07:00Giveaway: Sherlock Holmes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rSzQkDBpdzdhepIFK03MN2Wqzl7NZybNErMfXEknsMYub8jCjfuFU1n690aGNrYrGkRdg9N7syA21lF469EsNiB238Hdpw5OlIEX90S6XUUo6xx77EKhUv7tEd_1i46lo9mJ_jI8k8g/s1600/9781849903677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rSzQkDBpdzdhepIFK03MN2Wqzl7NZybNErMfXEknsMYub8jCjfuFU1n690aGNrYrGkRdg9N7syA21lF469EsNiB238Hdpw5OlIEX90S6XUUo6xx77EKhUv7tEd_1i46lo9mJ_jI8k8g/s400/9781849903677.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes </span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Contents: </span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A Scandal in Bohemia </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Red-Headed League </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A Case of Identity </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Boscombe Valley Mystery </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Five Orange Pips </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Man with the Twisted Lip </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventure of the Speckled Band </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventure of the Engineer's Thumb </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventure of the Noble Bachelor </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventure of the Beryl Coronet </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Adventure of the Copper Beeches </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Sir Arthur Conan Doyle</b> was born in Edinburgh in 1859. He trained as a doctor at Edinburgh University and it was during this time that he witnessed methods of diagnosis that would later inspire Sherlock Holmes' astonishing methods of deduction. A Study in Scarlet was Conan Doyle's first Sherlock Holmes novel, published in 1887, but it was The Sign of Four, published in 1890, that catapulted him to worldwide fame. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/jt7s6s0xg2j062u/Sherlock%20Holmes.epub" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Download Epub</span></a></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Source: Project Gutenberg </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Cover © BBC Books</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: All the books featured in Giveaway section are free from copyright and falls in public domain. It is completely legal for you to download, print, share or reproduce these books as you please. </span></i></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-246647081104682902013-09-26T09:42:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:20:09.560-07:00Unnatural Creatures <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XgX0DacQF-xpx1BNJIb_wuF8Eia5GIxDZJl4lKXOx3SHiylVc-HbkqAD11kSpXC5eon0jX8c4wJt5FDbo6nBD1vXzajrypqljzuNZFh2atBY-Z3NzpVd39Os7sG2TtVzSlPgFZKsCvo/s1600/unnatural-creatures-400x400-imadm74pczapug2j.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XgX0DacQF-xpx1BNJIb_wuF8Eia5GIxDZJl4lKXOx3SHiylVc-HbkqAD11kSpXC5eon0jX8c4wJt5FDbo6nBD1vXzajrypqljzuNZFh2atBY-Z3NzpVd39Os7sG2TtVzSlPgFZKsCvo/s1600/unnatural-creatures-400x400-imadm74pczapug2j.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Title: Unnatural Creatures</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Author: Neil Gaiman & others</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.in/dp/140884544X/ref=nosim?tag=dreview-21"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Neil Gaiman, the man who has given us Stardust, Sandman, Coraline and many other jewels to crown our imagination has collected 16 short-stories in this anthology, including one of his own. Every story features an unnatural creature ranging from Unicorns, Werewolves & Mermaids of myths and folk-lore to never-heard-before creatures conjured from the depth of fantasies and even Death; each possessing the effect of Gaiman’s macabre and potential to exploit the darkest corner of reader’s mind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Each story contains a preface from Neil Gaiman, which is not only a treat for the fans but also provides the yarn to hold the set of varying stories; along with a few beautiful illustrations adorning the tales. While most of the stories have a fairy-tale kind of approach, there are some which can be easily categorized in Sci-Fi and dark humor as well. And unlike modern gothic tales, there are no obscenities in these stories, making it an appropriate read for everyone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No one has ever collected or read an anthology with all the stories being favored by every reader. This book is no exception but it is the best it can get. Though some of the stories might seem puerile, why should one let logic ruin the entertainment? All stories are highly graphic with sub-texted humor and a surmounting sense of irony. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Unnatural Creatures is compiled of following stories: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>(I’m unable to decipher the title) by <b>Gahan Wilson</b></i> – A black spot, reminds me of Stephen King’s The Raft, as brutal and as entertaining. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The Cartographer Wasps And The Anarchist Bees by E. Lily Yu</i></b> – The plight and fight of bees and wasps concealing political metaphor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Griffin And The Minor Canon by Frank R. Stockton</i></b> – The tale of a Griffin’s friendship with a Minister. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Ozioma The Wicked by Nnedi Okorofor</i></b> – Adventures of a girl who can talk to the snakes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Sunbird by Neil Gaiman</i></b> – Epicurean club members, who got bored of eating everything, gets an invitation to Egypt. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Sage OF Theare by Diana Wynne Jones</i></b> – Gods are plotting to change the prophecy which marks their doom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Gabriel-Ernest by Saki</i></b> – A man comes to know about a strange boy who lives in his forest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">8.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Cockatoucan by Edith Nesbit</i></b> – A girl has to stop the bird from laughing who is changing everything. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">9.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Moveable Beast by Maria D. Headley</i></b> – A girl on the hunt of a strange beast with a stranger company. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">10.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Flight Of The Horse by Larry Niven</i></b> – A man travels back in time to find a horse, but it is different from the pictures… and has a horn. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">11.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Prismatica by Samuel R. Delaney</i></b> – A boy’s quest to find 3 pieces of a mirror hiding a secret. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">12.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Manticore, The Mermaid And Me by Megan Kurashige</i></b> – Things are not normal at National History Museum. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">13.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Compleat Werewolf by Anthony Boucher</i></b> – He became werewolf to get the woman of his dreams, but things got out of claws. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">14.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>The Smile On The Face by Nalo Hopkinson</i></b> – A teenage girl when bullied finds the fire within. Literally. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">15.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Or All The Seas With Oysters by Avram Davidson</i></b> – Two friends own a bike shop, but nothing is as it seems. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">16.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><i>Come Lady Death by Peter S. Beagle</i></b> – A pretentious woman got bored and invited Death to her Ball; things do went interesting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Though most of these stories has been published before (including Gaiman’s Sunbird) and only two are new, it is a great collection regardless and a must have if you haven’t read most of them before. Highly recommended, not only to Gaiman’s fans or Harry Potter fanatics, but anyone who enjoys getting goosebumps from a read. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">5/5 </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-60922100589686632302013-09-16T06:23:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:20:57.981-07:00Beaten by Bhagath!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Title: Beaten by Bhagath!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: S.V. Divvaakar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Leadstart</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.in/dp/9382473033/ref=nosim?tag=dreview-21"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Before I start discussing this book let me be clear about one thing, so my points are not misjudged. I am not a fan of Chetan Bhagat. But I don’t hate him either. He induced the habit of reading in many youngsters and hence, deserves the respect and success he is getting. Gifted with the talent or not, he is one of the most popular writer of our time. And that’s somehow the same point S.V. Divvaakar is trying to make in this book ‘Beaten by Bhagath!’. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BB, a long forgotten friend of India’s most popular author Ketan Bhagath, always knew he has a way with words. Now, encouraged by his boss, and in attempt to woo her and feed his ego; he begins the quest of getting published as a writer. And not just that, he wants to be a more successful writer than Bhagath, so he can take his revenge for the betrayal. With all these wrong inspirations, he writes ‘Sinner’s Course’ and what follows is a long disturbing journey of book publishing and marketing chaos. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I believe this book tells only one side of the story. Okay, it is difficult for a writer to get published but it’s nothing new, it has always been like that. The screening publishers provide is very important to filter out bad books and writers as their readers will be investing not only money but a good amount of time over them. What did moved up a notch is the promotional scenario. Changing the books to suit the market value or selling undeserving works with good promotions on the basis of deals with some stores is the worst thing happened to the publishing industry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Now, if a writer like Ravinder Singh can change labels from Shrishti Publishers to Penguin Metro Reads, it just proves that art has been turned into business. And not just in Indian market, otherwise, how could one expect a ‘mommy-porn’ book beating the record of Harry Potter. Things are bad and will go worse, with or without Bhagat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let’s break the pattern here and talk about cons first. The narration is simple with poor language. No characterization is done whatsoever. You don’t know anything much about the protagonist and hence can’t be empathetic towards his pain. A good point of the story, friendship of BB and K-10 Bhagath could have been exploited to easily extend the novel’s length and grip over the reader, but was ignored. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">For the pros: It is a light read and gives a lot to discover for someone who has never been exposed to the book-making process, in a funny way (CB kind of humor, if I may add). It does also provide a lot to think over and that’s the best part. All said it is still a much appreciated read than a non-fiction version of a book on similar subject would have been. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Is this a recommended read for a wannabe writer? Yes and no. A writer is a writer, published or not. You cannot ‘wannabe’ a writer, if you know what I mean. So if you are a writer, leave this one alone and read the first two chapters of Yann Martel’s Beatrice and Virgil instead, you will get the gist. And if you wannabe a writer, then this is your gospel. Hope it might scare you off and a few trees would be saved. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Overall, it is a recommended read for anyone who wants a light, enjoyable novel; regardless of your ambitions and bibliophilic habits. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">3/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Mr. Yatin Gupta. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-45465597586615482502013-08-27T23:36:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:21:49.941-07:00The Guardian Angels<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Title: The Guardian Angels</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Author: Rohit Gore</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Grapevine India</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Guardian Angels by Rohit Gore is a conventional love story of an affluent reserved guy, Aditya and a middle-class jaunty girl, Radha; portraying how love crawls in, even with magnanimous differences in one’s backgrounds, personalities and aspirations and how destiny plays. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now when I say conventional, I don’t mean there is nothing new. Because that’s the strangest thing about love, it feels new each time. This novel has its perks and all the pleasantries expected from romance genre. Suffice to say it is a decent read. And it’s good to see that where new writers nowadays keep trying to fit in crude humor at any chance they get, author has abstain himself from such tricks, providing this story a grace which it deserves. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This book has its flaws too, and those which are quite common among Indian fiction writers: mediocre language and screenplay-like story flow. Even with all the proper ingredients, the characters seem a bit restricted, like puppets and never really come alive to surprise you. Same goes with the story; all the twists and twirls one could wish for, convincing sub-plots and serene climax, but still it never engulfs the reader on a deep level. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have read Rohit Gore’s ‘Circle of Three’ before and since know his command over the words and his potential of a great story-teller. Unfortunately, I am not impressed with his current offering. I would love to see him try a slightly different genre or experiment with his narration technique. He does have all the tools, no doubt about it, now he just needs to widen the horizon and see beyond just market values. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Overall, it is recommended for every Indian fiction reader, especially for the fans of romance genre. Hope it will improve the taste of many, as it certainly sets the bar a level high. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">3/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from The Tales Pensieve as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-20034575590415345172013-07-26T10:13:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:22:35.762-07:00The Caretaker<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHXB91KdURm95s2rcWXI0UxPT1FQwmSv_yTvopqc3KDsVMtNzsmYzXKVF-e6r-9pZM7nMAHCK2kq0UdQ3bAeM-C6_KBoSzmFkdrG2Ie8aEOqW85VchGSrXdg2tOi-AdvydFW1C3v8zjU/s1600/the-caretaker-400x400-imadjqfguhgrd57t.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHXB91KdURm95s2rcWXI0UxPT1FQwmSv_yTvopqc3KDsVMtNzsmYzXKVF-e6r-9pZM7nMAHCK2kq0UdQ3bAeM-C6_KBoSzmFkdrG2Ie8aEOqW85VchGSrXdg2tOi-AdvydFW1C3v8zjU/s1600/the-caretaker-400x400-imadjqfguhgrd57t.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Title: The Caretaker </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: A.X. Ahmad </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: HarperCollins </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Caretaker by A. X. Ahmad is a heterodox thriller which follows the life of Ranjit Singh, former Captain of Indian Army, who is trying to make his living and settling his family in Martha’s Vineyard, but as the lids starts to come-off, we enter in the world of a betrayed past, a complex love affair and even complex religious disputes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The protagonist doesn’t come even near to a Hero template which a reader would expect but is a flawed and unfortunate character, thus quite sympathetic. The main plot of the story, even with all the right ingredients of a thriller (as in: secret document, conspiracy, chase, threat of lives and destruction) is weakly presented. There is no deficiency of action sequences but when you expect them the most, romance is induced on the pages instead, thus making it a bit of a drag. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Writing is next to perfect and the best part of this book. Anyone can create larger than life characters and force the reader on a roller-coaster ride, but it takes real talent to make the reader empathize with normal as nobody and walk through 290 pages just to know how things ends up. The story flow is also praiseworthy as author play out the past and present of the lead character, putting things on a new perspective after every few chapters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The embarrassment Sikhs had to bear in western world after 9/11, as most of them can’t differentiate between a Sikh and a Muslim (just like Indians categories westerners in just Blacks and Whites) is intelligently woven into the story; also backing up with the political relationships of US with India and Pakistan at that time frame. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It might not be one of the best books I ever read but after I finished the book, I didn’t have any to compare it with and that’s a good sign. I won’t suggest this book to the hardcore thriller fans, as they might get disappointed. But this book is much more than a conventional whodunit and highly recommended for those who enjoys a complete Drama genre with a scoop of romance, mystery, war, emotions, politics and a lot more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">4/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-60287350416969675102013-06-23T08:08:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:24:01.454-07:00Boomerang <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdq3e9VP-Xg66EL149WgQOc7Uped2G12OPeuEFNjUNt5zo01s1kmEjMt3XIt0GKUwpsNseTgDv6echHx77F2bxbo7fujYwL1SpNw3mfd-5lXbXyEgTgzafq-gKFpnkt6U1nT_xOp0By4/s1600/boomerang-400x400-imadgundwbh5qqpt.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdq3e9VP-Xg66EL149WgQOc7Uped2G12OPeuEFNjUNt5zo01s1kmEjMt3XIt0GKUwpsNseTgDv6echHx77F2bxbo7fujYwL1SpNw3mfd-5lXbXyEgTgzafq-gKFpnkt6U1nT_xOp0By4/s1600/boomerang-400x400-imadgundwbh5qqpt.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Title: Boomerang</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Author: Rajshri Raajgopal</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Frog Books</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Boomerang – what you threw away comes back and how it hits, a quite appropriate title for the story of protagonist’s life, in the novel by Rajshri Raajgopal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anna’s craving and quarreling of love, her battles with society, her desire of a beautiful future and her veiled past marks the stratagem of this book. Sounds tedious? Well, it’s not. This book stands out from the crowd of hundred others written on the similar subject. Even been set on a traditional background, it is a modern story with realistic characters even in bizarre situations and with passions laid delightfully on the pages. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The writing is fresh and acts as the strongest plus point of this book. The pace of the story increases with the number of pages; it begin steadily slow and you will find yourself clinging at a cliff until the climax, which is rather unforeseen and makes the entire tale go up by a rank. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Coming to the cons, I felt the dialogues were weak. Maybe the author wants to connect the character more with the reader than with other characters, or maybe it is the conversation. Also, continual story flow is a very important part of a good book, as how you are seeing is almost as important as what you are seeing. Though a few snippets and poems glued in this novel might have provided a better platform for building characters and relate to the reader, I found them unnecessary. Author could have saved a few pages by avoiding them, as on the whole it is a hardcore drama/suspense and not a chick-lit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Overall, it is a startling debut and my hopes are raised for the upcoming works of the author. Highly recommended for every girl and most of the boys who understand and enjoy a good fiction. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">4/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-27601198927629213082013-06-05T10:30:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:24:48.339-07:00Shoes of the Dead<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Title: Shoes of the Dead</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Author: Kota Neelima</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Rupa Publications</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Shoes of the Dead by Kota Neelima not only have a catching title but also captivating content.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gangri, whose brother committed suicide owing to all the debts his farming cursed on him, is fighting for a dead man’s rights. On the other hand, a young politician Keyur Kashinath, bestowed by political powers transcended due to his father’s legacy is looking forward to embark his mark in the dirty politics. When their world collides, what the reader gets is a story filled with farmer’s plight, dark face of government politics and image of a shattering society caged with false anticipations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One would say there is nothing left to say when it comes to such a concept this book is based upon. And they might be right. Shouldn’t one read Premchand instead? And one might be wrong. People like us, belonging to a foremost middle class group either believes that things are getting better – ‘Hey there is a new chain of XYZ brand in the city.’ or ‘It rained good this year.’ Or, we believe things are getting worse – ‘What petrol prices hiked again!’ or ‘Are you kidding me, no subsidy on LPG?’ But the fact is things have always been the same for the farmers of this nation. Government, politicians, society and corrupted professionals, everyone constitute for it. And maybe they will be this bad for a long time, unless a struggle begins, one such portrayed in this novel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But that’s not all what the author has to offer. She has also taken into account of politician’s thinking. Something, I don’t remember I witnessed anywhere else; and hence an applauding effort.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Writing is refreshing and next to perfect. It feels good to learn that you are investing your time in such a book whose author has done a tremendous research. The confidence, anger and urges are conveniently conveyed with moderate flow, quite appropriate for such a story. No, it’s not a drag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The only bad part I came across is that many-a-times I felt the dialogue between characters as superficial. Reminds you of something you may have heard somewhere. Also, it makes the characters to lose a bit of credibility.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Overall, this is a fresh read which you begin with a sigh of relief that it’s not going to be in the junk shelf of your library and complete with lots of thoughts and emotions storming through your brain. Recommended for every reader who need food for thoughts, particularly those who can’t miss a day’s newspaper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <span style="color: lime;"><b>4/5</b></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Blogadda.com as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
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</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-23903940680970634122013-05-26T08:56:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:25:52.350-07:00Vanity Bagh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Title: Vanity Bagh</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Author: Anees Salim</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Pan Macmillan India</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.in/dp/9382616071/ref=nosim?tag=dreview-21"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Vanity Bagh is a fictional place clearly mentioned as ‘tiny Pakistan’ in Mangobagh with Mehendi – quite analogues to India – as neighborhood. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Imran Jabbari, accused mastermind of a terrorist plot that shook Mehendi with three scooter bombs, is spending his time in jail, recounting the memory of his hometown Vanity Bagh. The places, the people, their fears, hopes and anxiety. Imran’s plans of escape, his delusions and self-amusing nature make him a great narrator. Also, dispersed tactfully are anecdotes from his friends, foes and strangers, which complete this novel of delicious rendezvous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Seeing from a distance this book can be labeled as a biography of a young, unemployed Muslim from Pakistan trying to make his stand, expressing his views on India and the rift between two countries, and how it is destroying his life. Where violence has become a routine of our life and nobody feels uncomfortable if accused terrorist is a Muslim, truth is: everyone is caged, on both sides of the boundary. Blinded by hypocritical media, misguided society and deceiving politicians that rule our life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I took this book in my hands for the first time, it reminded me of Khushwant Singh’s Train to Pakistan and Ruskin Bond’s A Fight of Pigeons; and one might relate the background. But, the infused dark humor makes it a completely different book I ever came across. Don’t get confused; the stated dark humor doesn’t resemble to that of Christopher Moore (who is the master of this genre IMO), but more to Christopher Buckley and Donald E. Westlake. Noir, subtle and pungent.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rarely come a book with such story and characters that breaks the conventional approach and writing that redefines tradition. This is one of those books. The way Anees Salim molded this world of Vanity Bagh makes the reader stare in awe. Another best part of this book is that the author never preaches. And the way humor is blended, reader never loses the grip of the characters or maybe it’s the other way around. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the most inspiring books in the latest releases of modern fiction. A highly recommended book for anyone who wants to read something worthwhile.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">5/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
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</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-45434073477480345632013-05-19T08:06:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:27:23.717-07:00Chameleons<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Title: Chameleons</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: Sanket Ghag</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: LeadStart Publishing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Chameleons by Sanket Ghag is a story of optimism against adversaries, in an edgy sense. As they say, if life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Sunny, who once was living a normal and happy life is now facing dreadful situations; which are strong enough to push him on the verge of suicidal consideration. Losing his love, struggling in his work and unable to find any closure, of the kind he expects, from his family, he now has to decide whether he will let the river of change drag him away or be the change himself; like a chameleon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Readers join the protagonist while he recounts his life towards a not-so-predictable climax with perspicuous writing and engrossing characters. When it comes to connectivity, author has really nailed it. To be frank, I wasn’t expecting a lot from a newbie, but the genuineness of characters simply amazed me. Not until I read ‘about the author’ section (which I only do after completing the book), I realized why I felt so connected with Sunny; because this book is coming from the heart. Nowadays, many new Indian authors are coming out of nowhere penning books to get famous, earn money or just to woo some girl. But, I am thankful that this book is different. It’s a simple guy chasing his dream with a story to tell, saying ‘hear me out’.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Talking about the downfall of this book, I believe it is poorly edited. I can’t pinpoint the exact reason why but many-a-times I felt like the author imagined this story more as a screenplay rather than a novel. With choice of simple words, slangs are still punctuating the language. Even being a quick read, you may find some parts repetitive, slowing down the pace of the reader.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Only if the author sharpens his writing tool a bit, I think he got all the qualities of a ‘deserving’ bestseller. Overall it is an impressive work and acts as a real treat for fans of Indian fiction.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <span style="color: lime;"><b>4/5</b></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher for reviewing purpose. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
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</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-29288877217799008742013-04-30T08:50:00.002-07:002013-04-30T08:50:48.608-07:00April Giveaway: The Art of War<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvaJ7taVnSP6J3ldN1QqjzdjR0abxJJuB3G8gfjG6q3DBWKm-kKN1Vg5xyVy8uLQwhTlTmtFiGqfV5IB0s_DhLIHIKSHA3YxQEd9jtbszlQQPw64_bztUKgthxqJorEHFAMu43OWvPgc/s1600/art-of-war.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvaJ7taVnSP6J3ldN1QqjzdjR0abxJJuB3G8gfjG6q3DBWKm-kKN1Vg5xyVy8uLQwhTlTmtFiGqfV5IB0s_DhLIHIKSHA3YxQEd9jtbszlQQPw64_bztUKgthxqJorEHFAMu43OWvPgc/s320/art-of-war.jpg" width="201" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>The Art of War by Sun Tzu</u></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Conflict is an inevitable part of life, according to this ancient Chinese classic of strategy, but everything necessary to deal with conflict wisely, honorably, victoriously, is already present within us. Compiled more than two thousand years ago by a mysterious warrior-philosopher, The Art of War is still perhaps the most prestigious and influential book of strategy in the world, as eagerly studied in Asia by modern politicians and executives as it has been by military leaders since ancient times. As a study of the anatomy of organizations in conflict, The Art of War applies to competition and conflict in general, on every level from the interpersonal to the international. Its aim is invincibility, victory without battle, and unassailable strength through understanding the physics, politics, and psychology of conflict. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/u8pluk7dgzgxlk5/The%20Art%20of%20War.epub" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Download Epub</span></a></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Source: Project Gutenberg </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: All the books featured in Giveaway section are free from copyright and falls in public domain. It is completely legal for you to download, print, share or reproduce these books as you please. </span></i></div>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-62351357197025464232013-04-20T06:46:00.000-07:002013-04-21T06:54:26.041-07:00Soldier For Women<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">I am really grateful to Gillette and Blogadda team to come up with an initiative to honor the good men amongst us, to salute the soldiers of our daily life who stood up for women. This is not only a great way to spread awareness in these hard times but also an opportunity for me and fellow bloggers to share their experiences. The following post marks my gratitude not only towards my father but for every man who becomes the voice of women and stand with them for their rights. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As they say, your father is always your first hero. And they are right. I always had immense respect for my dad and never needed any reason for that either. But when this opportunity came up, I recalled an incident I'd never gave a second thought to; and that made me to love and respect my dad even more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This tale is about my maternal cousin, Surabhi. She is beautiful, smarty and had always been a topper in her school times. She had just completed her HSC and topped in the merit list too (21st rank I guess, pardon my memory) when she turned 18. Belonging to our average orthodox family, her parents began their search of a groom for her. They were planning to get her married within a year. But Surabhi didn't wanted to get married so soon. Being smart in her academics she wanted to pursue higher education and was interested to work afterwards, understanding how crucial role financial stability plays in withstanding a marriage. She had her reasons. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">'What will society say?' 'Why your daughter is not married yet? Is there something wrong with her?' 'Her elder sister got married when she was 19, isn't she happy?' 'Jay is turning 21 next month, we can't marry him before her.' Again 'what will people say?' My uncle and aunt had their reasons too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I was much younger then and didn't stand a say. My dad is a respectable man and my uncle and aunt favors his opinion a lot. They always consult him on their financial investment and other welfare, because of his knowledge and experience. When my mother told him about Surabhi's dilemma, he went straight to their home, called out Surabhi and made the entire family have a heart-to-heart talk. Though Surabhi's frustration was waning, my aunt and uncle were still reluctant to let her study further. My dad has a great sense of humor and knows how to play with words. Though I vaguely remember the entire conversation, some of the things he said are still engraved in memory. He stated the importance of education to them and boldly used sarcasm to let my aunt know how little helpful she was to her kids when it comes to tutoring them. Being from a Hindi medium school, it was really difficult for her to provide competent guidance to her kids; though she was lucky to get children who were passionate towards study and hence never had any trouble. "Do you want your grandchildren to go through same?" my dad asked. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The ice was thinning, when my uncle protested that they had over expended on their first daughter's marriage and all left is for her marriage, if they spend it all on her education then how will they manage the marriage, as they can't Jay before her. To which, in my mother's surprise, my dad said, "I'm sure she will be able to manage everything after getting a job, if not, I am ready to bear all the expenses of her marriage." I don't have any siblings and dad always considered Surabhi as his daughter. "And forget about dowry, guys will be competing to marry our beautiful and by then, engineer daughter." Somehow, his words did made an effect on them. My dad helped Surabhi to get an education loan, which giving her AIEEE score was not a problem at all. She completed her computer engineering and worked for two years after that before marrying. Now, it has been four years to her marriage, she have a wonderful daughter Anushka with her doctor husband. And unlike her housewife sister and cousins, she is a working woman (IT head at Tech Mahindra) and leading the life she planned. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Such thing makes me wonder how little conversations can mould the passage of life. All we have to do is say the right thing and stand by it. Love you Dad! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This post is a part of <a href="http://www.gillette.com/en-IN/" target="_blank" title="#Soldierforwomen">#Soldierforwomen</a> in association with <a href="http://www.blogadda.com/" target="_blank" title="The Best Community of Indian Bloggers">BlogAdda.com</a>
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Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437287966431174777.post-48397973594095975742013-04-08T06:55:00.000-07:002015-09-05T00:28:42.226-07:00Tantra<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Title: Tantra</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author: Adi</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Publisher: Apeejay Stya Publishing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genre: Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.in/dp/8190863622/ref=nosim?tag=dreview-21"><img src="http://i62.tinypic.com/21afeav.jpg"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Tantra by Adi (no, not Aditya Chopra) is a gripping tale of a vampire hunter's roller coaster ride intertwined with mythical concepts, hunt for the killer and, wait for it, pressure of arrange marriage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Anu Aggarwal, a US based Indian who guards New York City against vampires has to come to New Delhi in search of her boyfriend Brian's killer. Back in her homeland she discovers an alternate side of vampires, gets involved in Vedic Tantra and strive her best to expose all dreadful secrets which will lead her to the killer. All this, while tangling the internal politics of her organization and her aunt's persuasion to get married. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Since Bram Stoker's masterpiece, the concept of vampires has been degraded to many levels. The best example would be the Twilight series; Stephanie Meyers would never get peace for how she insulted such a wonderful concept. Luckily, I didn't expect much from this book and well, it didn't disappoint me. Vampires are, so to speak, just used here to form an unconventional backdrop. As the story proceeds you would find yourself in the midst of a typical Indian writer who want you to believe that secrets are hidden deep in our mythology and the protagonist must fight to stop a catastrophic event. And won't forget to induce some romance, whenever he gets the chance; even amongst all the chaos. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Author had put everything available in the market of fiction i.e. vampires, mythology, love, family drama, politics, social values, etc. in a mixer and served a dish in the form of this book with a topping of eccentric humor. Now this dish looks quite delicious and will surely win the prize for presentation, but it is tasteless. Methinks, an author fails to realize the true potential of his/her story when he/she tries to focus more on the marketing strategies. Thinking about what the reader would like, I instead of what you want to say will eventually void the purpose. Tantra by Adi is just a mambo-jumbo of all the clichés without any soul. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Though writing doesn't collaborate with 'about the author' section which claims Harvard and Stanford Universities, it is simple and appropriate with the type of story. The best part of this book is author's bravery; blending supernatural fiction with your go-to-guy characters isn't as easy as it may sound. Stirring eccentric topics (read bisexuality) is also commendable. I wish author have developed more incidents that would have provided a depth to the characters. But as the climax of the book hints towards the beginning of a series, one could always hope. And I hope things will be more sorted out in following novels with clearer characters, clean story flow and… well I could do with the humor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Recommended for those who reads all and only Indian authors. Take a shot; it is nescient but not boring. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rating: <b><span style="color: lime;">2.5/5</span></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Blogadda.com as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></div>
</div>Drachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15898813590205113691noreply@blogger.com1