Menu
Menu

Neelam

An internationally accredited book blogger, voracious reader and the founder of Booxoul, one of India’s leading book and lifestyle blogs, Neelam is a person with a penchant for bringing out the best in people. A website designer, a renowned book blogger and a leading creative influencer on Instagram, here is a lady who is candid, closer to life and sensitive to the softest of emotions…

A Book Blogger, Reviewer, a true friend, honest critique, a relentless benefactor and more…

Book Reviews

Au Contraire, Mademoiselle by Indrani Mirajkar

|

Au Contraire, Mademoiselle by Indrani Mirajkar When I had done reading the book, the first thought that came to my mind was ‘WOW’, how am I going to review such a book. Where there was no stronger character than the protagonist Rani, she single-handedly overpowered the whole book. Various thoughts were racing through my mind. And I am not even sure, in which genre does this book fall in. Blurb The story is merely an allegory to the protagonist’s battle with life in an attempt to establish her own unique sense of being and existing in the world as we know it! The world is a mere observer to the protagonist’s valiant attempts at conquering herself even as it judges and is forced to participate, albeit reluctantly. As the lotus tries to bloom in the quagmire of life, the world decides to call it a ‘#lousylotus’ for daring to bloom… It’s the story of Rani, who is a loner at heart. She joins a Law College in a not so famous place where people are stereotyped and discriminated, depending on their status. But Rani doesn’t give a hoot of what people think of her. Yes, She is not your everyday girl, she is different, very different indeed. She will do, whatever she wants to do regardless of what people think of her. Over the year she becomes an intimidating lawyer, and that also on her own terms. I don’t know if I liked the story or not! I know, I am sounding a bit confused, and believe me I am. For starters, Rani, the protagonist is too strong and lacks certain emotions for my liking. The plot revolves around Rani; it focuses on Rani at all points of time. Every now and then a few characters are introduced to support the story. The story, though, could have been better, but drags a lot during Rani’s court cases, which kind of went overboard for me. The climax kind of blew me off! I was really shook and wanted more from the Author. The story was left in a big cliffhanger. Long after finishing the book, I kept asking myself, ‘Why did Rani do this? What was the sane reason? Well, I hope the author writes a sequel to this book explaining what happened to Rani? And Why did Rani took this dastardly step?’. For me, it’s a 3 out of 5 stars read. You can get your copy of ‘Au Contraire, Mademoiselle‘ by Indrani Mirajkar on Amazon or Flipkart.

The Carpet Weaver by Nemat Sadat
Book Reviews

The Carpet Weaver by Nemat Sadat

|

When you read a book and that book leaves a lasting impression on you and that in a way changes your perception towards life is what I call a ‘Book to keep on your shelf forever and Nemat Sadat’s book ‘The Carpet Weaver’ is one such book. This book brought forth my emotions in torrent. I was struck by the brilliance of the narrative. Despite the book being Nemat’s debut, I was left awestruck with an appreciation for his writing style, its pace, and its creative profundity. Book Blurb: Afghanistan, 1977. Kanishka Nurzada, the son of a leading carpet seller, falls in love with his friend Maihan, with whom he shares his first kiss at the age of sixteen. Their romance must be kept secret in a nation where the death penalty is meted out to those deemed to be Kuni, a derogatory term for gay men. And when war comes to Afghanistan, it brings even greater challenges-and danger-for the two lovers. From the cultural melting pot of Kabul to the horrors of an internment camp in Pakistan, Kanishka’s arduous journey finally takes him to the USA in the desperate search for a place to call home and the fervent hope of reuniting with his beloved Maihan. But destiny seems to have different plans in store for him. Intimate and powerful, The Carpet Weaver is a sweeping tale of a young gay man’s struggle to come of age and find love in the face of brutal persecution. Review Set in 1970s Afghanistan, ‘The Carpet Weaver’ is a coming-out story of Kanishka, amidst this pours political disarray. This is also a story of love that is a transgression, even in the high society of Afghanistan, where girls and boys mix freely yet homosexuality is frowned upon. This coming of age story is divided into three parts. Three important life-changing twists in Kanishka’s life, which as the story gradually progresses, so progresses the years, and we along with the protagonist escape the once peaceful land of Afghanistan to the refugee camps in the far off ranges of the Baluchistan in Pakistan and then to the US ‘Promised Land of America’, where he slowly starts to rebuild his life. This gut-wrenching book will take you to the places, you’d never want to visit. The pain and emotions throughout the book are as vivid as reality. But also this book is a lesson unto itself. However heartbreaking it may be, one has to stand for himself. I was equally elated – for Kanshka stood for what he was and, heartbroken – because he had to leave his family. This book reminded me so much of Khaled Hosseini’s ‘The Kite Runner‘. Both in their own way stirred us and showed us the stark reality of humanity. This heartwrenching story has earned a 5 out of 5 stars for the author’s sheer empathetic penmanship and the characters that were as alive as any of us. I say, read this fast-paced book, which will compel you to search for the answers, for this book raised many questions. .   .   .   .   . I so so recommend this book to everyone reading this review and for those who have already read this book, I would love to know your opinion of it in the comments below. Happy Reading 🙂

Zero Not Out by Vamshi Krishna
Contemporary Fiction, Book Reviews, Fiction

Zero Not Out: Every journey has to end, for a new beginning by Vamshi Krishna

|

While “Chhichhore” movie entertains us in the theatres, this novel won’t disappoint the sports lover readers among us. Both the stories revolve around the parental support today’s generation craves rather need in this cut-throat era of competition. Also, these stories have our prestige institutes and sports in it. Making it, a complete package of entertainment. Maybe, it’s just a coincidence that I read & watched these stories in the same week. But I must say I liked them equally. The language of the book is really easy and you need not refer to a dictionary every now and then. Though there are few grammatical and spelling mistakes, you will still enjoy the plot thoroughly. It is a gripping and catchy story that made me smile and feel emotional at the same time. Its length is just perfect for a story like this. Everyone who has lived a hostel life will be able to relate to it at some point in time. It also shows the role of a father in his son’s life at different stages of life. I don’t want to share more spoilers but, I would definitely salute Vamshi’s effort to address this critical issue our young population is facing nowadays. Since he is an IITian himself, he understands the pain better. The depression and pressure that follows are known to everyone but are addressed by none. After studying so hard for the entrance exams and clearing the tedious years of college, when the kids fail to secure the job they deserve, they take steps like suicide. Vamshi has not only addressed this issue beautifully but he has also shown how technology can be used to fight it. His efforts will definitely benefit our young generation and to some extent curb youth suicides. In Zero Not Out, author Vamshi Krishna has done justice to the subject and gave readers a perspective on the issue and its probable solution. His creativity in terms of plots is commendable and the way he deals with emotions is remarkable. Though the initial story looks similar to many bestselling novels, gradually it stands out. I am giving this book 4 out of 5 stars for its amazing plot & author’s courage to address a critical issue. Withholding one star for the old storyline & average editing. Happy reading fellas. 🙂

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
Romance, Book Reviews, Fiction

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

|

During stormy stretches of September, now and then I like to read a good slow-burn romance book. And who doesn’t love to read the slow-burning romance in such a delightful climate? Everybody, right! Along these lines, I as of late picked ‘The Bride Test by Helen Hoang. This wonderful and sensuous read and it had taken me in its thrall. Helen had captivated me with The Kiss Quotient. It was one of my topmost loved at that time, thus clearly the desires were high for this book. Brace yourself for what I’m about to tell you, this book literally blew my lid off my top. It was better than ‘The Kiss Quotient‘ from various perspectives. A little about the book: Khai cherishes accounting and loves to keep his house and backyard messed up, just to disturb the hellfire out of his neighbours. He is also Autistic, has sensory issues and feels as though he can never demonstrate the “right” feelings or state the “right” things. Esme Tran has a little daughter and to meet ends together, she works as a maid in a Vietnamese Inn. She stumbles upon Khai’s mom, and she convinces Esme to go to America and charm Khai to wed her. She concurs in the expectation of making her girl’s future secure, and better her family’s conditions. Moreover, she is planning to discover her dad there. (He is an American Businessman). So, Esme and Khai live respectively for three months. She is attempting to woe him, and he endeavouring to repel her charm. Be that as it may, all through this she is discreet about her little girl with Khai and his Mother. The entire story has a cutesy charm. What do I think? Though a bit predictable like any other romance novel, Helen’s ‘Bride Test‘ did not disappoint me at all. In fact, it was charming, cutesy and bewitching to say the least. The narrative of the story is well detailed and thought of well. Every aspect of the book, from the characters to the written language is well structured. The best thing about the narrative is that it gives you a happy, glowing feeling well after you have read the book. And all that, in my opinion, is what makes a book a good read I was in love with all the characters, the moment they popped up in the story. Khai became my favourite with all his vulnerability and the beauty of his heart. Especially, I loved him more for his respect towards Esme and women in general. And Esme with her feminine charm and innocence won my heart. After quite a long time, I read something that made me cry, laugh and gooey at some time. ‘The Bride Test‘ is a 5 out of 5 stars read and I recommend it to all. Btw, what’s your favourite romance book? Do let us know in the comments below. Happy Reading 🙂

Traveller Inceptio by Rob Shackleford
Sci-Fi, Book Reviews, Fiction

Traveller Inceptio by Rob Shackleford

|

What will happen when you are trying to build a machine that will help you in Security Business, but instead you create a machine that will take you back in time? ‘Traveller Inceptio‘ by Rob Shackleford is a Science Fiction. This book revolves around the Time-Travel concept, which takes the researchers 1000 years back in time to Saxon England. SUPER INTRIGUING, right? The setup of this book is somewhat similar to that of The Outlander. But besides the set-up and the concept of time travel, the two books do not have a common ground. It fascinated me beyond my expectations. The narration was the key parameter in reader engagement. I was deeply engrossed in the story throughout the book. And the world-building was done amazingly. Although, initially I was confused about the sudden shift in the timeline. Sometimes the story focused on the research team in the present time and in the very next chapter it got entangled with the mysterious man named Micheal Lost in a deep forest. But once the first part of the book is over, the story catches pace and gets highly engaging. The first thing that connects the readers to the book is language. And in this case, the language is highly engaging. Although the science component of the book was away from reality the catalyst that proved to be moving the story was the narrative and some action scenes kept the adrenaline high. About the characters, I was easily able to connect with them as they were witty and quite eccentric, though a bit stiff at times. The ending of the book elevated the novel as a memorable read. It was an unexpected thrill beyond words. I highly recommend ‘Traveller Inceptio‘ to the readers, who love Science Fiction, Historical Fiction and time travel genres. I am definitely sure that you are going to love this book. .   .   .   .   . Love reading books? Check out our bookshelf, here. Also, if you love reading sci-fi, then do tell us in the comments your favourite science fiction book & try reading this: The Conspiracy Unknown Happy Reading 🙂

Book Reviews

This book is going to sweep you off your feet!

|

A Man from Mandu by Manoj V Jain “So be careful in what you choose, in what you commit, and in your relationships with your studies, your work, your parents, your lovers, and friends. Commitment and responsibility come with freedom, ropes are binding us all, and you have to know which ones to untie and which ones to keep.” This is simply the Era where Spiritual Guru advances as Brands. What’s more, there is no deficiency in profound messages flooding our internet based life. Keeping this as the topic of the book A Man from Mandu’s author Manoj Jain gives his readers a fascinating story of Avishkar Baba, AKA #SadhuOfStories’ in his most recent novel. I have heard quite good praises for Manoj V Jain’s books, yet this is the first occasion when I read one of his books, and I should state, I was really dazzled with his varied way to deal with a storyline. He is one of the rare sorts of people who know how to interest and enchant his readers. What’s more, I was captivated by the minute I began reading the book. From the absolute first page, this book is going to give you a lot to contemplate over. The story is told through the perspective of Tarini, who is almost 40 years old and clueless about her career and life. A bet with her closest friend gives her what she looking for. A challenge. All she has to do is use her marketing skills to create a Brand Guru Avishkar Baba. Avishkar Baba, a new age guru who is gradually gaining popularity. Slowly, his band of devotees duplicates. And he meets them twice a month and keeps them mesmerized with his abstract stories. But the question is who precisely is Avishkar Baba, and what is his game? Is it safe to say that he is a conman, a storyteller or is he the real Guru? I was aghast after reading about how a Guru is rebranded and marketed. And how these Social Media help them grow. What I really liked about the book was its narration. It had a ‘magical realism’ quality. I was captivated by the story throughout. And the language used in the book is crisp, clear and easy to understand. The concept and the storyline of the book are quite unique. It has quite a few backstories, which are weaved smoothly into one story. This fast-paced book is going to sweep you off your feet. A must recommend for every fiction lover. For me, it’s a 4 out of 5 stars read. You can buy this book on Amazon or Flipkart.

Book Reviews

An Unbelievable Story that you would Love to Believe

|

Your Destination Has Arrived by Barry Cheema When I started reading this book, I thought this is yet another book where a young author is trying to sell his book in the name of spirituality. But I am glad to accept that, I was wrong. This book touches all the topics relevant to our generation. From depression to terrorism, ragging to racism, spirituality to love, philosophy to everything. He touches base with everything & does it with simplicity, without making this book a heavy read for us readers. Congratulations Barry, who has succeeded in writing a wonderful novel. Basically, this book is what “Kal Ho Na Ho” is, to Bollywood lovers. It has dramatic events (a grand Indian wedding, a terrorist attack), a strong life lesson (you need to finish the book to know it) and like the author says “an unbelievable story that you would love to believe” (& also, a dog). The characters are beautiful & fit so well with the storyline that you wish you also have people like them in your life. A master likes Pinky Ji, a friend like Kumar & a lover like Sachi. This book also describes the wrong preaching of yoga that is happening across the globe and how people are fooled in the name of faith & religion by so many Godmen. It shows us a path to avoid these so-called spiritual masters & gurus. I really liked the way he has explained topics like catharsis and emotional intelligence while narrating the story of Bruno. If you really want to enjoy a spiritual read but not able to take the heavy content available on the internet, you should read this book. It introduces you to spirituality/meditation in a language that you will easily understand & will definitely connect to. Though the book looks quite lengthy (376 pages), but it’s so gripping that there is no turning back, I mean no way you are putting it down. The small chapters make it easy to read and help the reader to connect the dot better. Language is easy and you need not refer to a dictionary every now & then. I am giving this book 5 out of 5 for its amazing blend of characters, storyline, spirituality & everything good. You can buy your copy of ‘Your Destination Has Arrived‘ on Amazon or Flipkart. Happy reading fellas! 🙂

Sidereal Destiny by Vaishnavi Sanoj
Book Reviews

Sidereal Destiny | A Book Review

|

Sidereal Destiny by Vaishnavi Sanoj What if every move of your life is being governed by the distant stars and moon? A destiny governed by each word of an astrologer. Blurb Two couples, Arpitha – Aarush and Anand – Rashmi has no bounds. The only thing dividing getting them together is a thin boundary of caste, religion, social status, and Arpitha and Anand’s mother. A mother, who does not take a step without consulting star’s chart. Chaos reigns in these two couples’ life. But will they escape their fate drawn their chart? or they will fight their destiny against all odds? Review A true storyteller knows how to keep its readers hooked and in this case, Vaishnavi is a master in storytelling. Author Vaishnavi has given utmost importance to the plot. The twists and turns never fail to shake its readers from the very edge of the seat. The concept of the story is taken out of our everyday lives yet the way the story is told is simply astounding. Though the beginning of the story is slow but as you near the third chapter, the story takes the pace and hooks you to each word. I really enjoyed the narrative. It is so smooth, it enthralls you to keep reading till late at night. It is a very light read and yet potent. The author gives us something to think about throughout the story. A lot of thought is given to the characterization. Each character has a distinct personality. And some characters leave their imprints on you. However, there is a good balance of everything: characters, their emotions and the emotions in between. Do I recommend this book? Vaishnavi’s Sidereal Destiny is a perfect light read. Fast-paced and very enthralling. The written simplicity bowls over its readers and earns a 5 out of 5 stars. You can get your copy of ‘Sidereal Destiny‘ on Amazon. Also, read: The Patriots Legacy

Unlock the World of Words: Join the Booxoul Community Today and Discover Your Next Great Read!

Readers Find Gems
Authors Get Noticed !

Join our vibrant community where readers find new adventures and authors get the spotlight they deserve.

About Us

Welcome to Booxoul, where books are our soul! We devour stories, craft manuscripts, and deliver stellar reviews. Ranked No. 2 in India and Asia, we spotlight authors and ensure your book shines and captures hearts. Dive into literary magic with us!

Contact Detail

Follow Us

Facebook-f Twitter Linkedin-in Instagram

Newsletter

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.
Copyright © 2024 Booxoul | Developed & Maintained by Skillup Ventures