#42 Hell inside my head

Don't tell me it is nothing 

For I know better 

I am going through it

My demons are mine

I'll tackle them in my own time 

You don't need to worry 

Stay put, keep distance 

I have history of hurting friends 

I need space to sort 

The hell is in my head

Devil lives within

Hush! He hates noise

Let him devour my soul 

Tear me apart in pieces 

I'll be back soon 

But first I need to die

Succumb to my pain 

Bleed under his torment 

And when his anger subsides

I'll be reborn, from my own ashes

Ready for another hell

Another devil, another torture

But stronger than before...

Bindnee - By Deepika Saini

This is my first time reviewing an e-commerce website. But the mere concept behind this startup, a home-grown jewel by two of my friends Deepika and Rajesh, calls for a dedicated appreciation post. So here it goes..

With ever-growing aspects of e-commerce, we see various.. frankly quite many websites selling clothes that appease your eyes, but have you yet came across one that appeases your thoughts as well?

Bindnee - as the brand name goes, is dedicated to the married woman of Indian society also called Patni / Bahu / Lugaai in various cultures. The founder, Deepika Saini, has used the very word which society uses to bind a woman in a certain role, to break free of those norms. This Bindnee is here to turn the tables. The founder herself is a fashion designer and curates her own designs through Bindnee. The brand aims to rebuild the image of an Indian daughter in law, who is tired of being in the veil. Personally, the whole concept behind the branding and designs is inspiring enough for women like myself. 

Also, If you go through their brand's bio, this brand is not only here to raise the bar for women in terms of freedom to dress but also have thoughts about the environment and sustainability in their agenda. They aim to use sustainable, organic materials without all the toxic chemicals that go into the making of fabrics in the fast-fashion industry. It's highly commendable for an individual to put the environment before their profits.

Coming on to the merchandise, they have a varied variety of Tops, dresses, Kurtas, Bottoms, dupattas, Sarees, Juttis and Jewellery. My personal favourite is their range of Handcrafted Jewellery from Chhatisgarh. The intricate design on the handmade ornaments together with the colourful threads is something I haven't seen anywhere else. I am attaching a screenshot here for the reference of what i am fawning over...

 

All in all, ‘Bindnee’ is a really great effort to break the shackles and to bring about a positive change in society through freedom of expression, women empowerment and sustainable fashion. In a society where the life of a married woman is shackled by unwritten guidelines, seeing someone dare to dream is like seeing candlelight in the pitch-black darkness. 

I wish the dreamer, Deepika Saini, congratulations on being able to materialize her dreams through hard work and enthusiastic diligence. I am quite sure that the world will be able to see the awesomeness behind the concept and the brand will touch the hearts of millions in no time. I wish you all the best for this great business venture. One thing I can say is, Bindnee is here to stay. Kudos!

Book review: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini is a poignant and emotionally impactful book that left me in tears. The author's ability to weave a narrative that delves deep into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the human experience is truly remarkable.

One quote that particularly resonated with me from the book is, “I wondered if that was how forgiveness budded, not with the fanfare of epiphany, but with pain gathering its things, packing up, and slipping away unannounced in the middle of the night.” This quote encapsulates the complexity of forgiveness and the gradual process of letting go of pain and resentment.

Hosseini's storytelling is powerful, drawing readers into the lives of the characters and their struggles, making each emotion and revelation feel raw and authentic. The themes explored in the book, including friendship, betrayal, and the search for redemption, are universal and relatable.

There's no need to say this, but it is a deeply moving and thought-provoking read that stays with you long after you've turned the last page. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of finding peace and redemption amidst life's challenges.

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#37 Warrior Princess

She isn't a princess waiting to be rescued
She is queen who can carry her crown
And your hasty judgements
With equal grace...

Neither sugar and spice
Nor everything nice
She's got fire and fury
Little sparkle and many lilies
In equal measure...

She can't be tamed
Caged or confined
She got her wings
For she's born to fly...


A/N:
Muse for the verse - Simi Sathyan. A friend. A survivor. A fighter.

To a certain Anonymous sender of books.

I have been away from here. And been very much uninterested in carrying on the habit of pouring out things going inside my head, in words.
But recently I went back and read a few things on my blog and most importantly the comments. Some comments that I read for the first time in 2 years.

First of all, for the back story, in 2015 I used to receive some books by an anonymous sender at my home, from Amazon. It was confusing.

Since sometimes authors on Goodreads keep sending ARC books for review to bloggers, I initially thought they were a part of that giveaway. But later, when I confirmed it on Goodreads, they weren't from them.
I even contacted Amazon to know about the sender's details, but it too was a dead end.
And after 2-3 of them, books stopped coming. And, so I stopped thinking about it too.

And today after 2 years. I read these comments on two old-forgotten posts of mine.

First comment was on the post The Silent Killer and the second one on A book review.


I have never done this before but I am guilty of being utterly curious here. So, If the person who posted these comments and/or sent me those books is reading this. Please let me know.

My personal email ID is deepika.vasudeva@gmail.com
Or you can ping me on my phone. You already have my phone number (I know, since I used to receive text messages from amazon before every delivery)

It's been 2 years. I would understand if you wouldn't want me to know your identity now. But I plead you to. Closures are important. I don't want to die in suspense. Please :)


Quite-late-but-nevertheless-finally-here.
Deepika

P.S.- Those books are nice. Thank you. 

#36 Beautiful Imperfections

Perfection doesn't attract me...

Scars, Broken pottery 

Dimmer star next to the brightest one in sky

Clumsiness, broken stones
Asymmetrical shells... 

There's an untold story everywhere 

I am attracted to the untold, unknown. 

#35 Falling out of love

Falling out of love

It's wonderful.

Much like falling in love.

But with yourself.

#34 Fool me twice

Oh so here, it starts again

with you dancing back in my life

Why can't you give it up! Stupid stubborn stain

so it's the same cycle on the roll..

It's been 2 years and a month

Having been through heartbreak,

self hatred, destruction and redemption

I am sorry if I can't do it again..

I stand by what they say 

"Fool me once shame on you

Fool me twice shame on me"

So honey, I am drained and can't do it again..

I am done feeling and dealing

with you and your mood-swings

Now that you are past my tolerance limit

It's time for you to go baby :)


This post is a part of Write Over the Weekend, an initiative for Indian Bloggers by BlogAdda.

Happy birthday to the real Weird Wordsmith ;)

I think, in your entire life..
If you have impacted another's life - you have achieved something.
If you have saved one soul from self-destruction - you have succeeded.
If you have touched one heart - you have truly lived.

You have been all three of those people in my life. It is least to say I’ll never forget you.
Our paths may diverge...
Our conversations may stop...
One day you might as well forget my name...

But for me you'll always be the special friend.
A systematically weird, wisely stupid, insanely intelligent and perfectly imperfect friend. :)

I like you in spite of all your activate-deactivate wali harkatein, rude- polite wale mood swings, friends-strangers wale bizarre days, silent and bak-bak wale alternate attitudes … I like you with all your imperfections… because in the long run, as they say, what matters is not what you say or do (in your case - what you don't say) but how you made someone feel.

And I... feel peaceful whenever we talk. You bring the absolute calmness in a life full of panic, deadlines and pressure. A ray of sunshine.

They say, people come in your life as phases or friends... I might have been a phase that passed but you will be here in my heart as true friend... always.

Happy birthday ❤️

Book review: The Chocolate Thief by Laura Florand

The Chocolate Thief by Laura Florand
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"The Chocolate Thief" by Laura Florand is a contemporary romance that received a four-star rating from me. While it didn't leave a lasting impression like some other books, it still had its moments of warmth and sensuality that made it an enjoyable read.

The standout feature for me was the warm sensuality portrayed in the book, particularly in the steamy scene on the staircase. Laura Florand's writing brought out the passion and intensity between the characters, creating a memorable moment that stayed with me.

The story sets the stage in Paris, a city known for its beauty and romance. The clash between American Cade Corey and French chocolatier Sylvain Marquis adds an interesting dynamic, especially as they navigate the world of chocolate and desire.

While there were no specific memorable aspects beyond the sensuality, "The Chocolate Thief" still offers a delightful escape into the world of Parisian charm, delectable chocolates, and budding romance. It may not be a standout among contemporary romances, but it has enough warmth and allure to captivate readers looking for a sweet and steamy love story.

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Book review: Just the Sexiest Man Alive by Julie James

Just the Sexiest Man Alive by Julie James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Just the Sexiest Man Alive" by Julie James is a contemporary romance that received a four-star rating from me, albeit with mixed feelings compared to my experience with "Something About You." While it didn't quite capture the same level of excitement and engagement, there were still elements that I appreciated.

The intensity of the male protagonist and his jealousy despite his celebrity status added depth to the story. I liked how the female protagonist remained unaffected by his fame, showing strength and independence in her character.

However, one of the drawbacks for me was the lack of descriptive intimacy scenes throughout the book. I found myself waiting for steamy moments that never quite materialized, leading to a sense of disappointment. The delayed first real kiss until the last scene was a letdown, especially after building up anticipation throughout the story.

The snippet introduces Taylor Donovan, a confident and composed woman who refuses to be swayed by Hollywood heartthrob Jason Andrews' charms. Their dynamic as he pursues her and she remains unyielding creates an interesting tension, but I wished for more sparks and passionate moments between them.

This is a decent contemporary romance with moments of intensity and charm, but it didn't quite meet the expectations set by Julie James' other works. While it may not have been a standout for me, readers looking for a light and entertaining romance with a celebrity twist may still find it enjoyable.

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Book review: Something About You by Julie James

Something About You by Julie James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Something About You" by Julie James is a contemporary romance that kept me captivated from beginning to end, earning a solid five-star rating. This book had everything I love in a romance novel – sizzling sensuality, a suspenseful undertone, and characters who felt real and relatable.

One of the most memorable moments for me was the intense encounter between the protagonists in the office room on the third floor of the hotel. The chemistry between Cameron and Jack was electric, heightened by their forbidden attraction and the steamy dialogue that left me breathless. Their interactions were filled with passion and desire, creating a palpable tension that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

The sensuality in the book was off the charts. From the hot foreplay to the moments of heated passion, every scene between Cameron and Jack sizzled with intensity. I particularly enjoyed the theme of reuniting after a gap of time, coupled with the exploration of clearing out misconceptions and discovering a deeper love. Jack's brooding nature added an extra layer of allure, while Cameron's caring and sweet personality made her a character I could root for. Their chemistry leaps off the page, making their romance feel authentic and compelling.

This book is a gem of a romance novel that combines steamy passion with genuine emotion, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Julie James has once again delivered a story that left me thoroughly satisfied and eager for more of her work.

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Book review: The Pirate Lord by Sabrina Jeffries

The Pirate Lord by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"The Pirate Lord" by Sabrina Jeffries is a historical romance that combines humor and sensuality flawlessly, earning a well-deserved five-star rating from me. The book's blend of hilarity and steamy moments made it a standout in the genre.

One of the most memorable aspects of the story was the refreshing banter between the main characters. It reminded me of some of my other favorite books, adding a layer of familiarity and enjoyment to the reading experience. The parallels with Rapunzel's story added an intriguing twist, and I appreciated Sara's strong character for standing up for her beliefs.

Gideon's insecurity, a departure from the usual confident male leads, was a refreshing change. His willingness to admit his vulnerabilities added depth to his character and made him more relatable.

The sensuality in the book was off the charts. The seductions were highly sensual, and the kisses were described in a way that made them unforgettable. One particular scene, where Gideon proves a point through seduction after a fight, stands out as a testament to the author's ability to blend passion and emotion seamlessly.

The snippet sets the stage for a captivating story filled with adventure, passion, and witty exchanges. The dynamic between Sara and Gideon, from their initial clashes to the intensifying passion between them, kept me engaged from start to finish.

In summary, this is a must-read for fans of historical romance, offering a delightful mix of humor, passion, and captivating characters that make it a joy to read.

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Book review: Lucy Sullivan Is Getting Married by Marian Keyes

Lucy Sullivan Is Getting Married by Marian Keyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Lucy Sullivan Is Getting Married" by Marian Keyes is a hilarious contemporary romance that had me laughing out loud and thoroughly enjoying every page. I gave it a well-deserved five-star rating for its entertaining storyline and memorable characters.

One of the standout aspects of the book for me was the character dynamics. I couldn't stand Karen, the bitchy and selfish roommate, but I absolutely loved Charlotte. The relatable nature of Lucy, with her naivety, confusion, and string of bad luck in love, resonated with me on a personal level. I appreciated her decision to care for her father and understood the reasons behind her choices.

The sensuality in the book was warm and engaging. The buildup to the kiss between Daniel and Lucy was well-executed, and the love-making scenes were funny and enjoyable. One scene that stood out to me was when Lucy asks Daniel if he really loves her, showcasing their deepening connection and Daniel's sincere feelings.

The snippet sets the stage for a fun and engaging story, with Lucy navigating the predictions of a psychic about her impending marriage. The introduction of potential love interests like Gus, Chuck, and Jed added layers of intrigue and humour to the plot.

Overall,it is a delightful read for fans of romantic comedies, with relatable characters, witty dialogue, and heartwarming moments that make it a standout in the genre.

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Book review: Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James

Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Practice Makes Perfect" by Julie James is a contemporary romance that left me thoroughly satisfied and entertained, earning a solid five-star rating. The love/hate relationship between the characters, the office romance setting, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic were all elements that I thoroughly enjoyed.

The banter and fiery fights between Payton Kendall and J.D. Jameson were particularly memorable, adding a level of heat and tension that kept me hooked throughout the story. Their interactions were electric, showcasing a deep-seated attraction despite their outward animosity.

One aspect that stood out was the revelation of J.D. falling for Payton eight years ago. While not an overwhelmingly romantic moment, it added depth to their history and feelings, making their evolving relationship more meaningful.

However, one minor drawback for me was that the characters engage in a physical relationship before admitting their emotional connection. While this didn't detract significantly from my enjoyment of the story, it's worth noting for readers who prefer a different progression in romantic arcs.

The snippet sets the stage for a compelling narrative, highlighting the clash and eventual collaboration between two strong-willed lawyers. Their journey from adversaries to allies to lovers is filled with passion, ambition, and undeniable chemistry.

It is a captivating read for fans of office romances and enemies-to-lovers tropes, with engaging characters, steamy moments, and a satisfying romantic arc.

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Book Review: Flowers from the Storm by Laura Kinsale

Flowers from the Storm by Laura Kinsale
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

"Flowers from the Storm" by Laura Kinsale presents a historical romance that left me with mixed feelings. While the character of Archimedea stood out for her rationality and helpful nature, my overall experience with the book was disappointing.

The protagonist, Christian, remained consistently cynical throughout the story, leaving me wishing for a change that never came. Despite hoping for character development or a compelling plot twist, I found myself consistently dissatisfied. The storyline felt stagnant, and I often found myself wishing for either improvement or a swift conclusion.

On the sensual front, the book delivered some good moments, particularly in its sensual kisses. However, the love scenes were described as average, lacking the depth or lasting impact I had hoped for.

The snippet introduces the Duke of Jervaulx as a brilliant yet dangerous character, known for his dissolute lifestyle. The premise of a sheltered woman like Maddy Timms encountering such a figure had promise, but the execution left much to be desired.

The book had moments of sensuality and interesting character dynamics, but it ultimately fell short in delivering a compelling and satisfying narrative.

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Book Review: Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella

Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Can You Keep a Secret?" by Sophie Kinsella is a book that left a lasting impression on me. From the moment I met Emma Corrigan, I felt like I was reading about a friend. Her optimism and vulnerability drew me in, making her journey one that I could deeply relate to.

One of the highlights of the book for me was the character of Jack Harper. His pursuit of Emma was not just charming but also incredibly sweet and sensitive. I found myself rooting for him, especially when he defended Emma in front of Kerry and stood by her at the bring-your-family party. Jack's actions made him more than just a love interest; he became a character I admired for his depth and loyalty.

The sensuality in the book was subtle yet impactful. Moments like the kiss in the park and the love scene at Panther Mansion added a layer of romance that was both heartwarming and realistic.

What stood out to me the most was how the book tackled themes of insecurity and loneliness. Emma's struggles mirrored my own at times, making her a protagonist I could easily connect with. Her journey of self-discovery and finding love in unexpected places kept me engaged until the very end.

Overall, "Can You Keep a Secret?" is a book that touched my heart with its relatable characters, heartfelt emotions, and charming storyline. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good romantic comedy with depth and authenticity.

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Book review : God is a Gamer by Ravi Subramanian

I had the pleasure of reading God is a Gamer by Ravi Subramanian. 

Thank you Blogadda for sending me this book as a part of book review program..

The cover graphically asks a question “Is Revenge a Crime?” Once you start reading the book, you discover only crimes but no revenge. So is it deceiving?

Nope, hold your fire till you reach the end of the book. It fires up slow with seemingly unconnected events happening in distinct parts of the world. Every chapter adds layers to narrative, slowly building up the tension and the mystery. Initially the plot takes time to build up but during the second half the book you can’t put it down even if you want to. And when you think it’s the end, wait for the last page. It will twist everything once more! For a person like me with no knowledge of finance it took time to be understood in the starting, in grasping the technical terms related to banking; else it’s a smooth read moving through the ups and downs of the corporate world.

Individuals and their private lives aren’t much communicated for the reader to connect to any person but portrayal is enough for the story to move quickly leaving the details to reader’s imagination.

Books seems to be a well-researched; relating to a few real life happenings too. It introduces the reader to fairly new concept of bitcoins. All the essential information is nicely incorporated through the discussions so the reader doesn’t feels confused or runs a Google search for each new term that comes up (though I still did to have a better understanding on the go).

It doesn’t create a world of its own but holding the reader in reality, it demonstrates what all happens in the world not-so-known. It perfectly blends up various colours of the corporate world. Casual revelations about the personal lives of the characters amazes the reader. It covers everything- love, lies, murders, cons, dishonour, schemes, corruptions, theft and VENGEANCE! The book is, hence, a seamless blend of fact and fiction.

In a single line I would say: A brilliant read after a long time. A page turner.

My rating : 4.5 out of 5

This review is a part of the biggest Book Review Program for Indian Bloggers. Participate now to get free books!