Tag: bluepenstrokes

Book Review: The Girl on Fire

A Twisted Tale of Crime and Consequence.

Book: The Girl on Fire

Author: Devashish Sardana

Genre: Fiction, Crime Thriller, Murder Myster

Review copy: Book Reviewers Club

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Good

Devashish Sardana’s – The Girl on Fire – plunges readers into the eerie fog of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, where the mist carries more than just whispers—it holds the smoke and ashes of a gruesome crime. IPS Simone Singh, a six-foot-tall, no-nonsense officer with a tonsured head, and Inspector Lucas, her observant, joke-cracking counterpart, step into a case rooted in troubled childhoods and distorted adult desires.

The novel wastes no time in setting its stage. The perpetrator is clear, yet remains just out of reach—an unsettling crime thriller paradox that keeps the tension alive. Sardana expertly manipulates perception, ensuring that nothing is quite as it seems.

Unlike traditional detective fiction – The Girl on Fire – doesn’t rely on meticulous sleuthing. Instead, it delves into forensic and police procedures, offering a detailed look at crime-solving mechanics. The evidence is largely circumstantial, the motivations shadowed by trauma, yet the intrigue never wavers. The novel’s opening is gripping, instantly immersing the reader in a world where deception and psychological scars intertwine. As the investigative duo tries to uncover the motive, Lucas’s sudden revelation pushes the investigation toward a definitive direction. Yet it feels somewhat flimsy—an easy turning point that could have carried more weight, given the gravity of the crimes.

Sardana’s writing is impeccable and taut, crafting a narrative that shifts seamlessly between past and present, examining events from multiple perspectives. This layered storytelling enriches the novel, drawing readers deeper into the complexities of crime, psychological manipulation, past traumas, and survival. Alongside the core investigation, an emerging subplot teases a future novel, leaving hints of unfinished business. While Lucas’s presence adds levity to the dark themes, sharper elements of intelligent humor could have deepened his character.

At its heart, The Girl on Fire is more than a gripping thriller—it’s a stark reminder of the horrors, pain, and trauma so many girls and women endure throughout their lives. Not all emerge unscathed, and the novel refuses to soften these wounds. Though the conclusion ties up loose ends and resolves the cases, justice—particularly for the wronged female lead—feels incomplete, leaving behind an unsettling sense of unfinished reckoning.

For readers who favor crime fiction with psychological depth over classic detective work, The Girl on Fire delivers. Sardana weaves a chilling, fast-paced tale where the most haunting truths lurk in plain sight.

I received a review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Book Review: Ziggy on the Rock

This book celebrates the beauty and culture of the Virgin Islands through the adventures of a young boy named Ziggy.

Book: Ziggy on The Rock:
A Day on the Rock

Author: C.M. Rohan
Illustrated by Sophia Foster

Genre: Fiction, Children’s fiction, Graphical novella

Review copy: Author-provided

Available at: Amazon.com

Recommended: Good

A Day on the Rock is a delightful children’s book that beautifully captures the essence of life in the Virgin Islands through the eyes of a young boy named Ziggy. Written by C.M. Rohan and exquisitely illustrated by Sophia Foster, this heartfelt narrative serves as a dedication to the author’s nephew and daughter, as well as to all the children of the Virgin Islands.

The story follows Ziggy as he embarks on a day filled with adventure and discovery on an island called The Rock. From waking up to the bright morning sun and enjoying breakfast with his grandma to exploring the local market and playing at the beach, each moment is depicted with vibrant illustrations and engaging text. The rhythmic cadence of Rohan’s prose makes this an excellent read-aloud choice. References to luscious local fruits, warm snacks, and the natural surroundings transport readers to a world of quiet charm, where Ziggy, with his curly mop of hair and big, bright smile, teaches children about the joys of a balanced day filled with fun and frolic.

Rohan’s writing is rich with cultural references that celebrate the Caribbean’s heritage and natural beauty, instilling a sense of belonging and pride in young readers. The importance of family and community shines through Ziggy’s interactions with his mother, grandmother, and friends, illustrating the values that are integral to life on the islands.

Sophia Foster’s illustrations are a standout feature of the book, bringing the story to life with her detailed and vibrant artwork. She captures the innocence and wonder of childhood. The predominance of greens and blues in her watercolors, accented by dashes of red and yellow, beautifully exemplifies the sun, sea, and sand of the Caribbean.

Besides its entertaining narrative and delightful color palette, A Day on the Rock serves as an educational tool, offering insights into local traditions, customs, and the vibrant lifestyle of the Virgin Islands. The book encourages curiosity and exploration, inviting children to learn more about their own cultures and the world around them. It educates young readers about the beauty and uniqueness of the Virgin Islands. It is a must-read for children, especially those from the Caribbean, as it provides representation and a meaningful connection to their heritage.​

I received a review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Book Review: Class Distinctions Thru History in Review: A Collection of Essays

With a strong background in history and impressive academic credentials, Scott explores multiple themes on class, race, democracy, and materialism, supporting his narrative with numerous references and quotes.

Book: Class Distinctions Thru History in Review: A Collection of Essays

Author: Stephen Joseph Scott

Genre: History, Non-fiction

Review copy: Author-provided

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Good; Must read for history enthusiasts.

History, as we know it, is gargantuan concealing depths of knowledge that can only be revealed through dedicated research and thematic analysis. In Class Distinctions Thru History in Review: A Collection of Essays, Stephen Joseph Scott delves into the history of class hierarchies and politics, creating a concise handbook for students of World and American History.

With a strong background in history and impressive academic credentials, Scott explores multiple themes, supporting his narrative with numerous references and quotes. Broadly, he addresses:

  • Class and race: Examining how socio-economic status and racial identity have shaped historical events and societal structures.
  • Historical materialism: Analyzing history through the lens of class struggle and economic factors.
  • Revolutionary perspectives: Highlighting the impact of revolutionary movements and figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Fidel Castro.
  • Neo-Conservatism: Discussing the rise and influence of neo-conservative ideologies in the 20th century.
  • Slavery and the founding of America: Addressing the complexities of America’s founding, including the institution of slavery.

Scott addresses sagas as old as civilization itself, illustrating how economic disparities continue to grow, with the rich getting richer while the poor struggle to make ends meet. The book emphasizes that, despite progress, racial injustice remains pervasive in society, even within the world’s strongest nations. Scott explores how economic factors shape social and political structures, driving the widening wealth gap that leads to dissatisfaction and dissent.

Both domestic and foreign policies often overlook class-based disparities, either ignoring the issues or furthering the interests of the powerful. These themes are intertwined with contemporary challenges, offering valuable insights into the complexities of modern society. Movements like Occupy Wall Street and ongoing debates about income inequality and racial discrimination are framed within a historical context, enriching our understanding of these pressing issues.

I particularly enjoyed Chapter 7: Ideology and Hypocrisy amid Slavery and Democracy, which investigates historical influences from Ancient Greece that have shaped modern social and economic structures. I was especially intrigued by how Scott dedicates a significant portion of a chapter to analyzing the award-winning movie Green Book. This analysis reflects on how class and racial identities impact our creative and artistic choices. Faced with oppressive politics, creative outlets like books, cinema, and art emerge as a subtle means of expressing discontent.

Chapter 9 presents another interesting essay, reviewing Where the Negroes Are Master by Randy J. Sparks. This work offers valuable insights into the African end of the Atlantic slave trade. Similarly, the analysis of the Preamble of the American Constitution is engaging, and additional essays prompt inquiries about “who benefitted from categorical constructs of race and class” and the “sins of democracy.” Overall, these chapters highlight the complex interplay between art, identity, and historical context in shaping our understanding of democracy and oppression.

The black-and-white book cover visually encapsulates the theme of the work. The split design effectively contrasts the upper and lower classes, highlighting societal disparities throughout history. The juxtaposition of well-dressed individuals at a social gathering against the somber, crowded environment of the lower class powerfully conveys the book’s focus on social and historical analysis.

Overall, Class Distinctions Thru History in Review: A Collection of Essays is a valuable addition to historical and socio-economic literature. Scott’s insightful analysis and revolutionary perspectives make it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of class and race throughout history. However, the book could benefit from tighter line editing, as occasional editorial lapses and lengthy sentences may distract readers from the otherwise compelling narrative. The writing sometimes feels weighed down by the significant topics it addresses and the extensive research Scott frequently cites.

This academic collection of essays remains relevant today, critically examining historical events and figures while encouraging readers to reflect on the ongoing impact of class and race in contemporary society. Its strength lies in its ability to challenge traditional narratives and promote a deeper understanding of socio-economic dynamics. Scott’s in-depth work prompts readers to question the status quo and consider the broader implications of historical events.

I received a review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Book Review: All Kinds of Stupid

Singh’s writing spans five different “Spaces,” each offering a specific type of content—ranging from doodles and journal-style musings to free verses and life lessons.

Book: All Kinds of Stupid

Author: Saheba Singh

Genre: Free verse

Review copy: Fingerprint publication

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Good

A slim volume of musings and free verse reflecting on our modern lives

Saheba Singh’s All Kinds of Stupid—with its byline Poetry Prose Satire Complicated—offers a distinctive blend of musings, journaling, free verse, and interactive content. Its unique style seems especially tailored for the social media-savvy Generation Z. The sepia-toned, attention-grabbing cover and fragmented byline reflect the book’s multifaceted tone, calling out to a generation that often tags life and relationships as “It’s complicated.”

The book comes with thoughtful additions: a blank B5 journal and a placard promoting the hashtag #akos. These elements encourage readers to engage actively with the book, flipping through its pages to explore the author’s world and share their reflections. Singh’s writing spans five different “Spaces,” each offering a specific type of content—ranging from doodles and journal-style musings to free verses and life lessons. Readers can choose a Space to suit their mood, making the experience flexible and personal.

The writing is raw and sometimes intense, addressing themes like life, relationships, and existential crises. While not entirely unique in content, some pieces stand out for their poignancy, especially those reflecting on the inner child, daily routine, or nature. Each entry ends with a prompt, inviting readers to ruminate, meditate, and share their responses online using #akos. This interactive approach doubles as a clever marketing strategy and adds purpose to the book, encouraging introspection and self-expression. The inclusion of a pocket-sized journal as an accompaniment is a thoughtful touch, aligning with this reflective theme.

One design choice that proved distracting was the ink blot pattern on every page. In the plain black-and-white paperback format, these blotches sometimes obscured the text, making it difficult to read. A more polished design—perhaps with glossy pages and ink blots in soft blue tones—might have enhanced its visual appeal. While this design choice reflects the author’s artistic sensibilities, it could have been executed more effectively.

Overall, All Kinds of Stupid exudes a comforting and minimalist aesthetic, aligned with its themes of solace and self-reflection. Its interactive elements and unique presentation have the potential to captivate young readers, offering them a refreshing reading and journaling experience. For those seeking both creative inspiration and introspection, this book is a worthwhile pick.

I received an advance review copy for free from Footprint Publications and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The Fantastic Other and my continued association with the brilliant masthead

The Fantastic Other is open for Submissions: Poetry, Fiction, Flash Fiction, and Art! The deadline to submit for this issue is July 14th at 11:59 PM EST.

It’s never too late for an exciting update!

Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer as a beta reader for The Fantastic Other (TFO)—an online magazine that celebrates all things speculative, from fantasy and sci-fi to magical realism and the paranormal. Through my association with TFO, I delved into some of the most captivating and innovative works by talented writers and artists. Earlier this year, I was thrilled to be part of their team as we shortlisted winners for the Winter 2024 Flash Fiction Contest!

As I got to know the brilliant art and literature enthusiasts—Grace, Flora, and Amy—I realized that this was more than just volunteering. It was an opportunity to learn about running an online creative journal that brings together a vibrant community of artists and writers.

And when they invited me to join TFO as an Assistant Editor, there was no looking back! It’s my chance to champion indie writers and artists, collaborate with an inspiring team, and keep growing in this dynamic space.

My weekends are abuzz as I dive into amazing submissions for the upcoming issue. Each story is a revelation, and every poem is an insightful journey. The TFO team’s dedication to curating exceptional content for eager readers is truly fulfilling.

I’m proud to share this pro bono association with TFO and thrilled to feature on their Masthead.

@FantasticOther
11:25 PM · Jun 3, 2024

We are proud to announce that Aneesha Shewani is joining our team as an Assistant Editor.

Our little mag has been getting a growth spurt this past year, so her expertise and experience will help us to keep things fantastic, with much more to come!

The Fantastic Other is open for submissions.

We are currently reading for our Summer 2024 issue. The deadline to submit for this issue is July 14th at 11:59 PM EST.

Read the Guidelines and join this fabulous “place for the discussion of dreams, the analyses of fantasies, the prodding of popular larks.”