Pom's Space

It is a pity that I unknowingly got introduced to Janardan Maity in the last book of the Janardan Maity – Prakash Ray series. Like is the problem with a most Sherlock Holmes readers, I somehow manage to find Holmes’ shadow in most of the detective characters I read. Not lying, I did the same in this one as well. The calm composure of the face, silently calculative nature, speaking no more than required, figuring out complex situations in the mind and not talking unless the whole job is done are characteristics we naturally associate with the legend of detectives, Sherlock Holmes. While it is completely natural for detectives to be that way, I never fail to notice the connection. But, that only acted in favour of the character since after having completed the book, I was in awe of Maity’s enigmatic personality. Throughout the book, the readers see the story though his friend, Prakash Ray’s eyes which sets them in the same neutral footing as him. The plot is that detective Janardan Mai...

 One of the best books ever written – the only thing that comes to mind when I think about the grand emotional ride named Rebecca. I have read numerous thrillers, but I haven’t read a Rebecca. Everything about the book unapologetically appeals to a thriller lover. The writing style is strongly gripping, making it hard to stop at any chapter for a break. There is an effortless flow to narration, making the readers actually visualize the grand scenes in front of their eyes. The plot is narrated by Mrs. de Winter, the second wife of Maxim de Winter. The former, introvert, guideless, initially working as a paid companion to a lady, Mrs. Van Hopper, accepts Maxim’s marriage proposal and moves in to Manderley, the grand, luxurious estate of Maxim. But, does she really know her husband? Is everybody in the house what they seem like? Why is Rebecca, the dead first wife of her husband able to make such an impact of her married life? Why does the housekeeper Mrs. Danvers hate her for no ap...

 Okay so I really liked the first book of the Ajaya series, Roll of the Dice. I was looking for more reads about Duryodhana, his role, struggles and life in general. So this is the book I went for. Though I am not sure about the truth behind some of the facts mentioned in the book, it has substance to offer. For example, Shakuni is said to be younger than Gandhari in the book. When Bhishma abducts Gandhari to be married to his nephew, Shakuni is depicted as a five-year-old boy. Another fact that I am not really sure of : Krishna is said to be older than Karna in the book. These are just some of the few discrepancies I noticed. Anyways, keeping aside those, here are some of the things I liked about the book. The portrayal of Shakuni is really interesting. You would literally feel chills down your spine when you read about this iconic character. The way he carries his grudge about the injustice met to his sister, his vow of reducing India to ashes are really depicted beautifully. ...