BookishJoys is a meticulous book review blog that endeavours to cater to literary enthusiasts of all genres. This blog offers well-written and insightful book reviews that delve deep into the essence of each work.
Featuring an extensive range of literary genres, BookishJoys provides readers with a diverse selection of reviews, ensuring there is something for everyone. The blog covers a wide spectrum of books that guarantees to captivate any reader.
Each review on BookishJoys is presenting a comprehensive analysis of the book's plot, characters, writing style, and overall themes. The reviews are informative, offering readers a clear understanding of the book's strengths and weaknesses, encouraging them to make an informed decision on whether to embark on that particular literary journey.
Moreover, BookishJoys incorporates a personal touch into the reviews, expressing my own thoughts and feelings about the books read.
In order to address the pressing environmental and social challenges facing our world, this book’s central premise is that the current model of human existence, driven solely by the pursuit of material wealth and prosperity, has led to the destruction of our planet’s natural resources and the erosion of our emotional and social well-being.
The author, Vipin Malhotra makes a strong case for the necessity of developing a new species of “hybrid humans”. This book’s central thesis is that our planet’s natural resources are being destroyed and our emotional and social well-being is being undermined due to the current model of human existence, which is primarily focused on the pursuit of material wealth and prosperity.
This is a response to the urgent environmental and social challenges that our world is currently facing.The author persuasively makes the case that it is time to abandon the “Vicious Cycle of Prosperity” and adopt the “Love Cycle,” a paradigm change that prioritises compassion, love, and environmental responsibility in all that people do. According to the author, hybrid humans are those who can successfully negotiate the complicated relationship between environmental sustainability and personal fulfilment and who are motivated by both love and money.
Insightful examples and provocative anecdotes are used throughout the book to provide a compelling picture of the transforming potential of hybrid humanity. These people are portrayed as the key to unlocking a more peaceful and sustainable future because of their capacity to combine emotional intelligence with practical problem-solving and their tendency to support community-based solutions.
All things considered, “Hybrid Humans Driven by Money and Love’ is an engaging and topical book that forces readers to reconsider how they relate to both the natural world and other people. It provides a vision of a future more robust and caring in which the union of affluence and love is essential to our survival as a species.
Do you like spending your reading time in nature or indoors?
Birth of a Butterfly chronicles the life of Sequoia, a young lady who immigrated to US with her mother and endures awful adversity. The narrative skillfully combines pain, resiliency, and the pursuit of identity and love.
Sequoia is portrayed by the author as a strong, self-assured person who successfully negotiates friendship, love, and betrayal amid a string of bad circumstances. Sequoia’s perseverance comes through as she faces many challenges and misfortunes with her unflinching attitude.
While Sequoia makes her way through the terrible realities of betrayal, loss, and poverty. The appearance of a dashing billionaire as a love interest heightens the suspense and mystery as their secrets clash and jeopardise Sequoia’s precarious existence.
The themes of deceit, trust, and the ability of love to both heal and destroy are expertly explored by the author.
Birth of a Butterfly seeks to motivate the reader by examining the human spirit and its capacity to triumph over the most difficult challenges. The story moves slowly, and I think it could have been told more effectively. Although I would suggest this book to those who enjoy good storytelling, it would also be a good choice for someone just starting out in this genre or trying to break through their reading slump.
An uplifting story of love, kindness, and tenacity can be found in “Start Living Again” by Saranya Umakanthan . Ananya, the protagonist of this story, is a young woman with dreams and a sparkle in her eyes. However, because of the unexpected turns life takes for everyone, all of Ananya’s dreams are lost in the grief that fills her eyes. On the other hand, Anshik was rescued from his deep despair and lack of confidence by Ananya’s positive outlook and her unwavering love for him, but when he sees Ananya again after three years, he discovers that she has completely changed.
Ananya’s hardships and her spontaneous reunion with Anshik weave a compelling story around the concept of overcoming unfulfilled goals. The victory of the human spirit, bravery, and optimism are all explored in this novel. It is a thought-provoking book that will inspire readers to consider their own goals and difficulties.
The two distinct personalities of the main characters, Ananya and Anshik, come together to encourage one another in following their goals and discover the strength of unity. The phrases at the start of each chapter and the story, although romantic, examine the power of relationships, self-esteem, and drive towards your goals.
Author Saranya has transmitted many thought-provoking and inspirational themes. Through the tale of Ananya and Anshik, the author hopes to rekindle faith in genuine, unconditional love—a love that never holds you down and always allows you to soar.
“Start Living Again” is a beautifully refreshing work of contemporary fiction that will have you turning pages until you find out how Ananya and Anshik’s lives concludes.
Do you have any favorite read from school syllabus?
This engrossing children’s book “Mystery of the Magic Mirror” by Shubira Prasad transports readers on an exciting journey full of charm, friendship, and the strength of teamwork. The narrative centres on a group of three children, Opal, Shailendra, and their cousin Krish, who move into a new home on the outskirts of the city and find a friendly ghost named Xoxo. When their elder cousin Krish arrives with his cute puppy, Chutney, the youngsters takes up an adventure to solve the mystery of the ghost and a strong, evil magic mirror in the neighbouring jungle. They must work together to make their way through the enigmatic and lush jungle, where they will come across obstacles and duplicate pictures.
The author expertly combines humour, mystery, and fantasy aspects to create a fun and captivating story that will enthral young readers. The novel gains depth and beauty from the detailed descriptions of the jungle environment and the distinctive characters, such as the gentle & kind spirit Xoxo. The story honours the strength of friendship, cooperation, and the victory of good over evil as the youngsters band together to assist Xoxo in finding and destroying the evil magic mirror. The children’s bravery and resourcefulness, combined with the fast-paced plot of the novel, make it a page-turner that keeps readers interested in finding out how their adventure ends.
Shubira Prasad’s “Mystery of the Magic Mirror” is a must-read for young readers who love imaginative, action-packed, and thrilling tales of the unknown. This charming book will grab children’s imaginations and encourage them to go on fantasy and real adventures of their own.
Rotten Little Devils, a riveting book by Bruno Beaches takes readers on a thought-provoking path into the shadowy realm of devils and their persistent quest of destruction. The struggle between good and evil has long been a matter of curiosity. The protagonist of the tale is a heavenly angel who, incensed by evil’s victory on Earth, decides to change into a demon. He leaves the safety and happiness of Heaven behind in an effort to comprehend the other side and starts down a treacherous path of trickery and manipulation with the help of an experienced demon.
Bruno demonstrates his narrative talent as he describes the Angel’s training under the guidance of his wicked tutor in exquisite detail. Bruno illustrates the thin line that separates morality from self-destruction through the conflict between virtue and sin in the lives of numerous individuals and their distorted teachings. What distinguishes Rotten Little Devils is Bruno’s skill at drawing readers in with his nuanced depiction of the opposing forces. The story takes on a thrilling tone that draws readers in and holds them there until the very end as the Angel-turned-demon digs further into his mentor’s lessons. Bruno skillfully combines themes of psychological manipulation, existential reflection, and temptation.
Rotten Little Devils, in summary, is a powerful and captivating book that presents a distinctive viewpoint on the never-ending struggle between good and evil. This mysterious and engrossing voyage is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers thanks to Bruno’s outstanding narrative and thought-provoking ideas.
What fictional character would you love to go on an adventure with?
In Saptarishis by Ramesh Arreja, a reader is led on an engrossing journey through the depths of human experience across the passage of time. The narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the enormous influence of our deeds, the interdependence of all existence, and the never-ending question which mankind grapples with- if our life is an outcome of fate, our free will or both.
Rudrah , the protagonist is travelling a path of self-discovery and exploration. He starts to realise how interwoven his existence is and the important roles he has played throughout history as he pieces together the memories of his previous lives and digs farther into ancient history.
Rudrah embarks on an enthralling journey across centuries and civilizations. He experiences love, grief, and profound moments of destiny throughout the journey. These encounters put his commitment to the test and prompt him to consider the meaning and purpose of his existence.With the burden of his legacy bearing down on him, Rudrah must make a crucial choice. He has to decide whether to follow his own course, unaffected by the echoes of eternity, or accept his place in the vast story of time. As he considers the weighty ramifications of his existence, this decision proves to be a pivotal moment in his journey. The narrative delves into themes of fate, identity, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through his journey, Rudrah tackles the intricacies of his history and the boundless opportunities of his future, providing a lens through which to examine life’s eternal mysteries.Saptarishis, the novel is written with depth and proper research.
With it’s simple language and fantastic narration, the story will take your imagination to the realm of mystical and spiritual journey. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and looking forward to read further in this series. So step into the realms of ancient wonders and unravel the mysteries of the past with this captivating mytho-fiction journey. Dive into this enchanting tale where legends come alive and destinies are revealed.
What debuts are you most looking forward to reading?
As a reader I was completely drawn into unusual and fascinating world created by Pooja Kanwar right from the first chapter. The narrative follows Mr. Moon, the main character, as he becomes drawn into a paranormal conflict between good and evil. Along the way, he meets the mysterious Ms. Queen, who casts doubt on his understanding of the afterlife and reveals facts about the reality of heaven and hell.
Pooja Kanwar’s exciting fiction fantasy book The Hell Queen and Mr. Moon is full of eerie encounters that will keep readers captivated from start to finish. An amazing atmosphere is created by the book’s exploration of the worlds of dark shadows, devil spirits, ghosts, shadow-hunters, ghostbusters, and wolves.
The author’s skill to meticulously create each character and make sure they add to the broader story is what makes this book stand out. Throughout the narrative, Mr. Moon, the protagonist, develops into a very relatable and well-developed character. It’s engrossing to read about his experiences with the unearthly beings and his ultimate search for self-discovery.
The plot moves quickly and occasionally takes predictable but interesting twists and turns that keep readers engaged. Suspense, mystery, and fantasy are all expertly woven together by Pooja Kanwar, making it hard to put the book down. The author’s use of poetic words and vivid imagery further enriches the plot, drawing the reader farther into this magical world.
The clever quotations dotted throughout the book enhance the story’s contemplative elements.
Readers will surely be left with a lasting impression by the excellent story The Hell Queen and Mr. Moon. Pooja Kanwar has remarkable storytelling skills by building a universe full of terrifying creatures and supernatural marvels that keep readers captivated all the way to the very end. Fantasy and horror fiction readers will become fully engrossed in this eerie and exciting journey.
What inspired you to write “BE-com-ing Authentically Me” and what do you hope readers will take away from it?
The spark that ignited BE-com-ing Authentically Me came from a higher calling – my spirit guides sat me down and compelled me to write it, to help humanity awaken. My deepest hope is that you will feel empowered to rediscover self-love, letting go of illusions and unleashing your inner alchemist. Explore the conditioning that was pre-programmed into you, transcend the drama in your life, and journey beyond the here and now. The key to life is to open our hearts and mind, rather than walking throughout life like a horse with blinkers remaining in the discomfort of ourselves, because of the implemented status quo of the societal paradigm. We’re all here to expand and illuminate our consciousness and understand what life is really all about.
I hope that through the book’s pages, you’re reminded that you are love, and we’re all here to return to that love for ourselves and each other. Our experiences are not meant to weigh us down and drown us, but rather they are gifts to lighten our load and reveal life’s wholeness. Each moment carries with it an invitation to awaken, as we gently lift the veil of our awareness and understand the lessons we have been given for our souls to grow. With eyes open wide, rather than eyes wide shut, we begin to see and understandlife’s fascinating journey and our true essence.
Though the path may not always be straightforward, it rarely is, faith lights the way, step-by-step, as we come to know life for what it is: a chance to love, to learn, and to understand. My words are but seeds, waiting to take root in fertile soil and blossom in your heart, nourishing your spirit with gentle wisdom and insight into this remarkable adventure called life.
Can you tell us about your journey as a Soul Empowerment Coach and how you discovered your abilities?
My journey as a Soul Empowerment Coach began long before I discovered my abilities. It was a journey steeped with deep trauma that I had to wade through shoulder-deep at times. I endured so much, but realised I had to take responsibility for my life and fight my own demons to rediscover the love and light within myself. I had to understand that I mattered – that I was worthy. I studied many holistic healing modalities to grasp my own healing process. Of course, I’m still developing, healing, and learning, and I’m not the same person I was yesterday. I find joy in helping people reclaim their power and live according to their soul’s rhythm. I’ve always been open to otherworldly realms, even as a child, though I tucked away my conversations with my guide as I grew up and life took over. Spirituality flowed back into my life naturally, unfolding steadily. Speaking with Light Beings in other dimensions.
How do you define authenticity and how can individuals connect with their authentic selves? Authenticity? What is it, really?
In a world where we’re pressured to conform, authenticity means being true to yourself. It’s about honouring your inner voice, not sway to the expectations of others.Authenticity is marching to the beat of your own drum. It’s revealing your quirks, flaws and all. Like a favourite pair of jeans, authenticity is comfortable and lived-in. No facades, no pretence, just you in your raw and real form.When you’re authentic, your actions align with your values. You take responsibility for mistakes because you’re not trying to be someone you’re not. There’s freedom in being yourself, fully and unapologetically. No more mental gymnastics to remember what you said or how you acted. No more wearing these different masks, creating different ‘personas’ just to be able to fit in and be accepted. Who cares what other people think of you? It matters what you think of you and how you feel about yourself.
Authenticity lets you breathe easy, knowing you can trust yourself. It’s deeply fulfilling in a way that hiding behind masks can never be. Like a sigh of relief, authenticity is lightness from releasing heavy burdens of pretence. It’s self-acceptance and growth.So be you, quirks and all. The world needs more brave, raw and real souls.
Could you share a significant personal anecdote or experience that has had a profound impact on your own journey of self-discovery and authenticity?
What does authenticity even mean? It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot these days. But real authenticity requires brutal self-honesty and a willingness to unravel layers of conditioning and programming.My life has been much like a full jar labelled as experiences filled with many different ‘sweets’ called mixed trauma. But my journey towards authenticity began when life shook me to my core. Trauma has a way of cracking you open – it strips the facade and reveals what’s underneath. With each painful experience, another layer of my false self peeled away.
We all wear masks. From a young age, we learn to contort ourselves to fit narrow roles and expectations. I know I did. For years, I twisted myself into a pretzel trying to be the person I thought others wanted me to be. It was exhausting.At first this raw exposure terrified me. I felt like a naked turtle without its shell. But in shedding the weight of those suffocating masks, I uncovered my truest self. For the first time, I saw myself clearly.Trauma, peer pressure, and social conditioning finally forced me to understand that authenticity isn’t about stuff, status or roles. It’s about alignment of your innermost being with your outermost actions. Even now, I’m still unravelling, still becoming. Because authenticity isn’t a destination – it’s an endless inward journey. Showing your true colours makes you vulnerable, yet it also allows for more intimate relationships built on radical honesty. Rather than wearing a mask to fit in, authenticity means ripping off the mask,and baring and honouring your one-of-a-kind spirit. Self-acceptance inside and out is the first step to being accepted by others. Feel at home in your own skin, and it won’t matter what anyone else thinks of you.
My favourite quotes on healing our experiences and authenticity come from the Ascended Master St Germain, who I work with a lot – “Either heal and deal or run and shun.” And from Wayne Dyer -“You cannot always control what goes on outside. But you can always control what goes on inside.” I believe the only limits we have are the ones we impose on ourselves, because we create our experiences according to our beliefs. To change our lives, we must first change our beliefs.
Are there any specific practices or exercises that the readers of your book can implement to support them on their journey of self-discovery and empowerment?
There are many ways to Rome, and thus to rediscovering ourselves. Discover your true self through simple yet profound practices of breathwork and meditation. As you turn your attention inward, let go of distractions and technology. Be fully present in this moment – the only place where life happens.Breathe deeply. Feel yourself recentering. Listen to the gentle guided meditations by Davidji, or the healing 432Hz frequencies to align your energy. The violet flame invocation is a powerful EFT technique that activates transformation just by speaking the words and following the tapping sequence. You’ll feel the energy shift as you repeat the affirmation.Make time for stillness. Follow your breath. Allow your true essence to emerge, unencumbered by the past or future. The present is your point of power – use it wisely to create the life you desire. With patience and practice, self-discovery blossoms, unveiling your unique gifts. You already have everything you need within.
How do you approach and navigate scepticism or doubt from individuals who have read or are familiar with your concepts of self-discovery?
I understand that my concepts of self-discovery may not resonate with everyone. We each have our own unique path in this life. If you’re sceptical or have doubts, that’s perfectly alright. I say, to thine own self be true. You have to do whatever aligns with your spirit. I’m no Yosemite Sam, forcing my way on others. Heck no! My teachings are simply an invitation for those who may find them helpful. Not everyone will, and that’s okay. We must each walk our own journey and do what works for our soul. There are many ways to Rome, and thus many ways to heal. Take what serves you, and leave the rest behind. I’m here for those I can help, not to convince the doubtful. At the end of the day, we’re all just walking each other home.
What advice do you have for readers who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about beginning their journey towards authenticity and embracing their Soul’s purpose?
Heck what does it even mean to embrace your soul’s purpose? We are so messed-up walking through this jungle of life on this planet, we just live a certain way, are a certain way and act a certain way – and most of us are whacked out of alignment, feeling deeply unhappy within. The journey back to ourselves and embracing fully who we are can feel overwhelming and uncertain at times. But, actually feeling this way is a sign that something deep inside you is stirring the pot – the real you is ready to emerge! When the chaos rises up, and all your trauma is wanting to be healed, just remember to breathe.
This is the universe giving you a nudge, asking you to pay attention. What makes your heart sing? What pulls you out of bed each morning? Your passions, your gifts – they are compass needles pointing you to your true north.
You’ve got to take it a day at a time, a step at a time, and one breath at a time. Each small step forward is progress. Trust your instincts, trust the universe, and soon your path will reveal itself one joyful moment at a time. Experiences will keep coming, but as you blossom and become more aware, just smile and keep breathing, keep listening, and let your soul lead the way.
Are you an avid reader? Would you like to tell us about the books which inspires or motivates you the most?
There are many books I love, but the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a book I can’t get enough of. It speaks to my soul every time I crack it open. Coelho’s story of Santiago, a shepherd boy with stars in his eyes, never fails to inspire me. Santiago dreams of finding worldly treasure, but the riches he discovers along his journey are far more precious than gold or jewels. He learns to listen to the wisdom in his heart, read the omens guiding him forward, and understand that the real treasure is the journey itself. The Alchemist reminds us to keep dreaming, to stay open to life’s beauty and surprises, and always follow the path our heart knows is right. Coelho’s timeless fable
Do you like reading books set in your own state or a country?
Being a Mumbaikar, I am proud of Maratha history and no matter how many books you read about it, Maratha history always has many hidden gems in it!
Angria by Sohail Rekhy is set during the turbulent Maratha era in India which transports readers on an exciting historical journey while highlighting the life of the unsung naval commander Kanhoji Angre. Readers will be engrossed in Sohail Rekhy’s skillfully crafted story of bravery, treachery, and loyalty until the very last page.Readers are transported to a realm of danger and intrigue through in-depth descriptions of the Konkan’s tumultuous rivers and the fearsome forts.
Kanhoji Angre, the main character, is a fascinating and complex figure. Kanhoji is descended from Tukoji Sankhpal, Shivaji’s keeper of Suvarnadurg Fort, who instilled in him a love of the sea and a strong sense of duty towards his empire. Kanhoji finds himself at the center of a power struggle that pushes him to rise above his circumstances as foes from all sides threaten the Maratha kingdom. Readers follow his development from a little child to the fearsome naval captain known as “Samudratala Shivaji” (Shivaji if Seas) as he travels.
Kanhoji must traverse a complex web of political intrigue, familial tensions, and constant foreign invasions by the Mughals, Siddis, and Portuguese, all of which are masterfully portrayed by Sohail Rekhy. The British East India Company’s presence heightens the tension and draws attention to the power struggle at this crucial juncture in history.
The vivid and evocative writing style immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and scents of the period. Because of Sohail Rekhy’s extensive research, the plot feels realistic and well-founded.
Angria is a riveting work of historical fiction that transports readers to a period when the battle for Swaraj was raging throughout the Indian Ocean.
This novel about bravery, love, and the undying spirit of Kanhoji Angre will captivate readers who enjoy both history and fiction.
If you could have the magic powers from any book you’ve read, which one would you want?
The captivating romance of Cupid’s Serenade, written by Kristina Stangl centers on Kordelia Silverheart, a cupid with an extraordinary lineage of Greek gods and unparalleled skill and magic for matchmaking romances. Kordelia has matched many well-known couples throughout history, but her latest task might be the most difficult one she has ever had to handle. Dr. Peter Murphy, a strong nonbeliever of all romantic ideas, is the man she is entrusted with finding love for.
Being the daughter of mythology’s most well-known royal couple, Aphrodite and Ares, Kordelia has stayed out of the spotlight while being instrumental in arranging some of history’s most spectacular love tales. Kordelia is unwavering in her belief in the beauty and strength of love, even if she has never experienced it herself. Throughout her lengthy life, she has been exposed to sweeping romances and ageless fairy tales from all around the world.
She goes out to find love for Peter, a guy who is in dire need of it, because she can’t resist taking on a task. After experiencing heartbreak in the past, Peter decided to live a straightforward bachelor life in San Francisco, concentrating on his the dental profession.
After attending a masquerade ball and accidentally running into each other both Kordelia and Peter’s entire life transforms. But after learning about Kordelia’s true identity, Peter is compelled to let go of his preconceived notions about love.
A story full of mythology, romance, and the transformational power of love is skillfully woven by Kristina Stangl. A beautifully written book, Cupid’s Serenade delves into the intricacies of love, the resilience of the human condition, and the eternal force of pure love.
Romance and mythology lovers will both like reading Cupid’s Serenade since it is endearing and captivating. This book is a fascinating escape into a world of magic, fate, and love.
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