Vithika Agarwal’s debut novel, “The Third Party” breaks ground as being one of the torch-bearers that successfully shows the other side of life where characters are settled in their lives and careers, have grown-up children and yet, the notable aspect is the crisis and tough situations they face. These situations comprise both good and bad but as in their younger days, the difference maker is the choices that they make. Not only the protagonist Sara but also the people around her make these choices which form the heart of the novel. With her debut work, Vithika Agarwal provides a refreshing take on post-romantic narrative, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of relationships. “The Third Party” serves as a reminder that even after the “happily ever after,” life continues to present challenges that require effort, understanding, and compromise. By shedding light on these often-neglected aspects of relationships, Agarwal’s novel adds depth and realism to the portrayal of love and its aftermath, leaving readers with a lasting impact and a new perspective on the intricacies of human connections. Indeed, Vithika Agarwal demonstrates a remarkable level of maturity and skill in her handling of human relationships in “The Third Party.” One of the notable aspects of her writing is the recognition that relationships can evolve in unexpected ways, often deviating from our initial expectations or plans. Agarwal adeptly portrays the complex nature of human connections, acknowledging that the development of a relationship may not always align with what we envision. The setting of the story in “The Third Party” is also one of the notable features. Setting it up in the bustling and dynamic city of Banglore where life is as fast as any metropolitan suggests that in the routine of life, people may not get the time to check upon their thoughts and the phases that they go through. The choice of setting in “The Third Party,” specifically in the bustling and dynamic city of Bangalore, adds another layer of significance to the narrative. By placing the story in a fast-paced metropolitan city, Vithika Agarwal effectively captures the essence of modern life, where individuals often find themselves caught up in the busyness and demands of their daily routines. The setting of Bangalore, with its vibrant atmosphere and rapid pace, serves as a backdrop that reflects the frenetic nature of contemporary urban life. In such a setting, Agarwal suggests that people may be so consumed by their daily obligations and external distractions that they neglect to introspect or take the time to reflect on their thoughts and emotions. This notion is reinforced by the idea that in the midst of the city’s bustling energy, individuals may inadvertently overlook the phases and changes they go through in their personal lives. By highlighting this aspect of the setting, Agarwal prompts readers to consider the importance of self-reflection and introspection in the midst of a hectic and fast-paced world. The setting serves as a reminder that amidst the chaos of daily life, it is crucial to pause and examine our thoughts, emotions, and the phases we undergo in our relationships. It encourages readers to carve out moments of introspection and self-care, acknowledging that personal growth and understanding require dedicated time and attention. Furthermore, the setting of Bangalore also adds richness and depth to the narrative by incorporating the city’s unique cultural and social aspects. The dynamic environment and diverse population of Bangalore contribute to the complexity of the characters’ experiences, offering a rich tapestry against which their stories unfold. By portraying the characters in a realistic manner, Agarwal invites readers to connect with their own experiences and acknowledge that relationships can be fluid and subject to change. Through her storytelling, she encourages readers to embrace the uncertainties and complexities of relationships, emphasizing that growth and development can occur even when things don’t go according to plan. Agarwal’s approach fosters a sense of relatability and authenticity, allowing readers to see themselves and their own relationships reflected in the characters’ experiences. By highlighting the potential divergences and challenges that relationships face, she creates a space for readers to question their own assumptions and biases, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the intricate nature of human connections. In handling this delicate subject matter, Agarwal showcases her ability to navigate the complexities of relationships with grace and sensitivity. Her mature and skilful portrayal of the developments within relationships resonates with readers, reminding them that unexpected twists and turns can occur and that growth and acceptance are essential components of any healthy connection. In that sense, “The Third Party” has a distinguishable beauty of its own, which makes it a recommended reading for people not only in their middle ages but also younger people who may want to understand the mindset they may have in later years or the mindset of the people in their family.
Author Feature : Dr Pratima Vishwakarma
Pratima Vishwakarma holds a B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University in Gorakhpur. She has an impressive academic and research background, with sixteen research articles and four book chapters published in reputed national and international journals.
Book: Symphony To Jazz – The Rise Insight
Uncategorized
This book, “Symphony To Jazz” by Author Ankit Khemka is a business guide and comes under the category of ‘Business & Strategy!’ In this remarkable title, the author explores the powerful analogy of jazz music as a metaphor for teamwork, creativity, and innovation in the business world.
Book Review : Pilgrimage : Collection of Poetries
As a collection of poetry, every volume has the potential to engross the readers in a different world that gives them a momentary break from their routine. “Pilgrimage” by M. Timothée Bordenave is a collection of poems that takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. Bordenave has a unique style of writing that blends spirituality with everyday experiences, resulting in a poetic masterpiece that speaks to the soul. Each poem is a reflection of the author’s personal journey, and the reader is invited to join him on his pilgrimage towards a deeper understanding of life. Bordenave’s poetry is deeply introspective, and the reader can’t help but be drawn into his search for meaning.
Bestselling Author Shaheen Kazi Talks About Her New Book ‘SIZZLING WITH SHE 2 SHE’
Shaheen Kazi is an Indian Author; being from Mumbai. She settled in Gulf (Saudi Arabia) for more than two decades. After perusing IATA, she focused on her passion for writing. Her achievements include six books, three anthologies, and many forthcoming projects. She is a versatile author. She also writes short articles for The Literature Times. Sometimes for a change, she works as a Reviewer at MouthShut.com. Her readers of all different ages always pick her books from any Bookfairs. Tasnima Yasmin: Congratulations on the release of the book. Why did you choose to write a collection of short stories instead of a novel? Shaheen Kazi: Thankyou Yasmin. ‘SIZZLING WITH SHE 2 SHE’ is a book that explores a range of emotions, consequences, and ups and downs in relationships. The book features a diverse cast of characters with varying ages and backgrounds. To convey this book’s diverse emotions and moods, I wrote ten different stories since it was not feasible to do so within the framework of a novel. At every level, readers can engage with the characters and their perspectives. Tasnima Yasmin: What inspired you to write this book? Shaheen Kazi: For some time now, I’ve wanted to share my thoughts on LGBTQ issues. It seems that in our society, we are more comfortable discussing topics like sanitary napkins or condoms with our loved ones, but when it comes to the LGBTQ community, we tend to shy away. We should no longer feel ashamed to express our opinions and address this vital issue. I want to inspire readers to be more vocal and bring about positive change. So, join me on a truly captivating journey with SHE 2 SHE. It’s a ride like no other. Tasnima Yasmin: How difficult was it to write about something that is a taboo in many places? Shaheen Kazi: As mentioned earlier, the game focuses on having the right mindset. As an author, my responsibility is to contribute to society through my writing. In today’s world, promoting open-mindedness and understanding among readers is essential. Tasnima Yasmin: Why did you choose to write about lesbianism? Shaheen Kazi: I’ve been to Europe and the United States and seen many LGBTQ communities living freely, doing their work in their respective areas, and enjoying their lives.While looking at them, I felt even in India, there must be lesbians, but do we see them? We’ve seen gay and transgender people, but have you encountered lesbians? I had not. Maybe some lesbians in India have to hide their sexual preferences under the cover or behind closed doors because they are afraid of family, friends and society. So somehow, I felt that I had to pick this topic and write about them, not for them but for humanity. Tasnima Yasmin: What kind of study did you conduct for this book? Shaheen Kazi: The most crucial aspect of writing a book is conducting research.Throughout my journey, I extensively perused several articles and blog posts and engaged in enlightening discussions with various individuals from the lesbian community.I keenly observed their nonverbal cues, unique ways of articulating their perspectives, and distinct lifestyles.I also talked about their sexual activities; a few were so generous that they spoke freely about their partner. Tasnima Yasmin: Which of the ten stories in this book is your favourite? Shaheen Kazi: You’re asking me to pick one favourite story out of ten. Each story is extraordinary and offers something unique to think about, so I can’t choose just one as my favourite. Tasnima Yasmin: Tell us a bit about your interest in erotica, how it began and how you were introduced to it. Shaheen Kazi: Who doesn’t care about eroticism; somewhere we all want to show that we’re good guys and good girls. We all had flown from Doordarshan time and staying in OTT platforms. The new generations are taking birth in web series time. The movie script and stories have changed, and the erotic genre is for modern mature readers. Tasnima Yasmin: What are the other books that you are working on presently? Shaheen Kazi: I’d love to share what I’ve been up to lately. I have a few ongoing projects that I’m always writing about. Over time, you’ll get to know them better. Tasnima Yasmin: Is this collection a sequel? Shaheen Kazi: It’s impressive to see how this trilogy is unfolding! The book series, starting with “Sizzling with Next,” creates an ongoing journey that had include “Sizzling with She 2 She,” and a third volume to follow. Each book contains ten stories that will captivate and leave you breathless. Tasnima Yasmin: What is the USP of your book? Shaheen Kazi: It’s essential to me that my readers understand the value of “acceptance” and “respect”. These two ideas are crucial, and I hope they resonate with you as much as they do with me.
Book Feature : 10X Your Focus to Achieve Career Success in a Competitive World
“10X Your Focus to Achieve Career Success in a Competitive World” by Dhritiman Chakraborty is a comprehensive and practical guide for corporate executives who aspire to enhance their focus and achieve long-term success in today’s fiercely competitive professional landscape. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Chakraborty provides readers with actionable strategies, real-world examples, and valuable insights to help them develop a growth mindset, cultivate positive habits, leverage technology, and overcome setbacks.
Book Review: Beyond The Classroom Author Hemant Jain
Book: Beyond The Classroom – Leadership Traits For Young ProfessionalsAuthor: Hemant JainPublisher: Evincepub Publishing (2023)Total Pages: 208Reviewed By: Neel Preet “Sometimes what we learn inside the four walls are not enough to prepare us for the outer world. The real world not only requires us to be bookish smart but it also demands us to be street smart. Moreover, only when we learn to maintain the balance between the both, we get prepared to face the world & avail the opportunities that lies ahead for us!” This remarkable book, “Beyond The Classroom – Leadership Traits For Young Professionals” by Author Hemant Jain is written with the noble aim of providing leadership traits to the ones who are actively looking out to enhance their overall growth. Through this title, the author tends to change the mindset & the attitude of the readers by providing them with compiled skills, practical advices & strategies for developing the leadership traits. The book also highlights the challenges, which may occur in today’s fast paced & competitive business environment. Moreover, the manner in which the solutions to these challenges are provided in this book by the author is truly incredible! Author Hemant Jain, is a well-accomplished Chartered Accountant with over two decades of experience in leadership positions in top companies in India including Satyam Computers and Bajaj Allianz. Currently serving as CFO of Reliance General Insurance, he has interacted with professionals from various backgrounds, witnessed their successes and challenges, and gained a wealth of experience. The author also has a strong passion for helping the less fortunate and underprivileged. He firmly believes that everyone deserves access to the basic necessities such as food, shelter, and education and is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the poor and underprivileged. Born on 20th of December 1973 in Sikar district of Rajasthan, author Hemant completed his schooling and graduation from Sikar, where he excelled academically. He went on to Ahmedabad to pursue his dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant and cleared his CA in 1997. At the young age of 35, he became the CFO of Reliance General Insurance, today among one of the leading general insurance companies in India. He is happily married to Mrs. Amita Jain and has two sons, Anant and Prateek, both pursuing their professional qualifications. The book, “Beyond The Classroom – Leadership Traits For Young Professionals” by Author Hemant Jain is basically a business & leadership guide, coming under the category of “Business Strategy & Management!” It should be noted that the author is carrying out a very noble act here as he has pledged to donate 10% of the royalties earned from the sales of this book to support the education of underprivileged girls. The book carries a great depth of knowledge and highlights the key leadership traits, which plays a vital role in reaching the doors of success in the modern world where things move real fast & the competition lays on every steps of the walk. Through this title, the author has focused upon the ways of overcoming the challenges of maintaining a healthy work life balance, especially for the ones with busy schedules! This book is a comprehensive guide that teaches the various methods of acquiring those skills, which are needed to succeed both in and out of the classroom. The book focuses on six essential skills – communication, time management, interpersonal, positive attitude, stress management and clear goal setting, along with understanding oneself. The book provides practical advice & techniques for developing these skills, as well as insights into how they can be applied in a variety of settings. Through the, ‘7 Reading Worthy Chapters’ presented in this book, the readers are bound to discover their true potential & move ahead with all their strengths to obtain the required growth & development. Now coming to the Readers’ Connect part for this title, “Beyond The Classroom – Leadership Traits For Young Professionals” I must mention that this book is way too unique. As the title lays down a whole set of the practical guides for those readers, who are looking forward to master the key leadership skills that can lead to a significant transformation in their career, relationships & overall life. This book begins where many ends, since you will find the same theories and formulas elsewhere, while through this book, the author is making an incredible attempt to bring the change in the readers’ mindset. So that the ones, who are following the guides provided by the author can reach out to something that has no limitations! Finally, coming to the Book’s Verdict part, let me begin by mentioning that this title, “Beyond The Classroom – Leadership Traits For Young Professionals” is for sure a MUST READ one. Through this book, the readers not only get the answers of their long unanswered questions, but they also achieve a mindset to create solutions for themselves. Through this book, the author had also provided some real simple & yet impactful approaches to deal with the challenges of personal transformation and move ahead with an open mind & an approach to do the things in the right manner. Hemant Jain is a very promising author, who is very clear with his ideas, which the readers can feel through his spectacular writings. In addition, the author indeed deserves appreciation for his great work as he has introduced the readers with such beneficial knowledge that will help them to achieve their own professional goals, which makes this book even more Reading Worthy! To Order This Book Click Here : Amazon
Writer Ansuman Bhagat discussed regional languages of Jharkhand at Vadodara Literature Festival, eminent writers and celebrities were present
Recently “Vadodara Literature Festival” organized by “I.I.M.U.N” was organized at Parul University, Gujarat from 10 to 11 May. Eminent writers and famous personalities from all the states of India were invited in this literature festival. In which Shabana Azmi, Chetan Bhagat, Tahira Kashyap, Lieutenant General Satish Dua, Alok Srivastava along with well-known writer Ansuman Bhagat from Jamshedpur city of Jharkhand were also included. Ansuman was present there as a panelist and gave his response to the language conference Desh ke Dil ki Kahaniyan at the Vadodara Literature Festival. “IIMUN” is the world’s largest youth-run organization that aims to bring the world closer together by empowering youth to develop solutions to global problems. Many eminent personalities have spoken as speakers in this organization, including people from political and film fields, Shashi Tharoor, Karan Johar, Gauri Khan, Kriti Sanon, Karthik Aryan, Sania Mirza and other popular personalities have spoken about “I.I.M.U.N”.
Journeying My Articulacy by Mir Hadia Ashiq
I was a shy girl who did not talk too much. I can recall that as I entered into my teenage years I started to read more. Writing has really boosted my confidence and helped me with my self esteem because when you feel good inside, it always resurfaces outside.
Sizzling with She 2 She – Shaheen Kazi – Book Review
Sizzling with She 2 She comes with a subtitle that is also a disclaimer which warns that the book is strictly for those who are legally considered adults or 18+ years old. This word of caution comes with the need of the author to make readers aware of the content of the book that is mature and needs a certain understanding and sensibility to go through. The central theme of the book is lesbian stories and the voice of the narrative is such that the author serves as one who intends to make readers aware of the needs, desires and wishes of the lesbian couples. The preface should be read with a lot of attention as it reveals a lot about what is to follow in the book and the main idea or motive that drives the author to write around this topic which is still a taboo in India and is also legally unacceptable if not considered illegal in many other places of the world and people who identify as lesbian or fall anywhere in the spectrum of the LGBTQIA+ are largely stigmatised. The book covers 10 short tales that span over 108 pages. Kazi strictly warns the readers about being careful of the outlook that they hold towards lesbian individuals or lesbianism as a practice of fulfilling physical needs. This care is to be practiced as Kazi says that those who are lesbian are individuals in their own right. They have their thoughts, views, ideas, with only the difference in the way they practice the act of making love with their female partner. Kazi mentions that lesbians are women who have all the physiological activities like the menstruation cycle but their point of difference is the attraction that they feel is towards other women instead of men. Kazi mentions, “Love does not have a gender; it is a sense of an invisible chain that connects the soul” which makes Kazi of the opinion that the readers should not judge lesbians for their choice of making love but learn to understand them for the people that they are. However, this book is a vivid and interesting collection of erotic lesbian short stories that are set in urban, fast paced, modern world of today that makes many people cross each other’s paths. Some of these people have mild attraction towards one another but never meet again. While those who have a strong affinity to one another, end up having a fling that may or may not be carried further into any serious kind of relationship. The author repeatedly stresses on the need to bring about acceptance and respect for one another which he collection of stories serves to reiterate to the readers. This makes the collection rather revelatory of the cause of distancing that is maintained by the regular average people of the society from those who are non-conformists in terms of their sexual preference. The author deduces that it is fear that makes people fail to connect with lesbians and allow them to take up their own space in the mainstream society. As a result, they remain ostracized and marginalised. This makes them occupy the margins of the society and further complicates their path to attaining their basic rights with their individual values in the heart of the society. It increases the fact that they remain misunderstood. Rejection, according to Kazi, is another issue that makes lesbians or those who conform to the umbrella term of LGBTQIA+ as closeted individuals. They fear telling others about their sexual preferences, their need, joys, sorrows, ups and downs and ways in which they can be accepted by the society or match up to the expectations of the society becomes difficult to explain on their behalf. In this collection, there are stories of women who were not born lesbians but due to certain circumstances in their lives they chose to love someone of the same gender conformation. Acceptance and understanding is what lesbians need from the society at the moment which Kazi advocates for through her book. Some of the stories explain how a woman to woman attraction works and the readers will note that it is not much different from that of a heteronormative relationship that is based on mutual understanding, respect and the desire to spend time appreciating one another. The narrative style is easy to follow, free flowing with apt vocabulary and vivid rather graphic descriptions that are typical and characteristic of erotic narratives. This brings a freshness to the writing style and makes the book an enjoyable read. The erotic aspect of the book does not go overboard with the descriptions. It neither romanticizes the idea of lesbian love making nor is the book only about the physical aspects. This reduces any tendency of boring the reader or making them nauseous with characters enjoying cheap thrills. On the whole, the book is a quick and easy read and serves as a basic read before venturing into erotica. Reviewed by: Tasnima Yasmin
