From Deepa's Desk

  Fragrance of Dried Flowers by Barnali Roy Available in Kindle edition This book is a collection of nine short stories that are based on various issues such as religious disharmony, gender discrimination, prejudice against the struggling segments of society, domestic abuse and other issues that are relevant to the present times.  This is the second book of Barnali that I read and I really like how progressive her stories are in their essence. While some stories have societal issues that have existed since generations, some of the stories are based on current times where people struggling with gender identity are frowned upon by the society. While some stories have happy endings, many others show the stark reality of today's times with their factual and heartbreaking endings.  The characters are well-etched and make a distinct impression upon the reader. The stories, without being preachy, impart valuable morals, often leaving fodder for clear thought and interpretation....

Falling Apart And Other Gifts From The Universe by Catherine Ryan Hyderabad Available in Kindle edition  In her sixties, Addie Finch works as a security guard in an abandoned warehouse. She's a recovering alcoholic whose career as a cop came to a crashing end due to her addiction.  Life as a security guard isn't much, but everything changes the day she meets Jonathan. In his teens, homeless and escaping assault, Jonathon seeks refuge from Addie.  From giving him shelter one day, to deciding to invite him to stay at her shed, Addie finds herself mellowing down to Jonathon's innocence and optimism despite everything that has happened to him. As she tries to help him, Addie faces some of her own past demons, sometimes fighting, sometimes almost succumbing but trying every day with loyal Jonathon beside her always.  I have read several books of this author and have come to expect great stories from her. This book exceeds all expectations and how! I loved the relationship...

  A Cup Of Zen by Kai Tsukimi Available in Kindle edition This book is a collection of 21 short zen-centric stories that make you pause and reflect. I have always been fascinated with the concept of Zen. These stories have only increased my fascination and inclination. Every story is deep in its essence and induces stillness in the mind. I found myself pausing at the end of every story and reflecting upon it. Some stories are clear in their concept, some endings are confusing but every story impacts on a deep level and sets you thinking on it. At the end of every story, there are some reflections on the same, some questions that make you ponder about how the story relates to you. There are also simple exercises based on Zen. I especially loved the reflections. While you may not always get the answer to the questions, they do bring a lot of clarity to the mind. Every chapter has a drawing that is beautiful and poignant. This book is a treat for the eyes, the mind and the soul! I did...

  O Dharmaputri by Vidhya and Parani This book is a collection of beautiful heartfelt letters that the authors have written for their daughter in response to her questions about life. Imbibing ancient wisdom and indic philosophy into their letters, the authors have presented brilliant insights to the various questions that have plagued the human mind namely, the purpose of our lives, about balancing earnings and wealth, about living a spiritual life in today’s materialistic world and so on. The insights are based on real life experiences of the authors. Through snippets of their lifestyle and their family history, the authors have discussed the merits of living a moral and ethical life. Although these teachings are based on the ancient wisdom of India, they are applicable for every age and every generation. Every chapter begins with a question by Uma, the authors’ daughter. It then proceeds with the answers the authors share. The insights shared by them are timeless and inv...

A posh colony in Delhi is rocked by the finding of a dead body. ACP Bhuvan finds himself in a case that appears to be complicated - no clues, no identity (initially) and no apparent motive. When the body is identified, it doesn't exactly solve matters. The ACP and his team find themselves digging deeper and deeper as the suspects prove elusive and the case takes on new angles with every passing day. Will the case be solved, and how? The narrative is quite engaging and nowhere does the story lag. Although there are multiple characters, they are relevant to the story and add to the mystery. The tidbits about New Delhi bring an old-world feel to the story. The crimes, while gory, haven't been overtly described and yet are deeply impactful.  While all the characters are memorable, ACP Bhuvan, his associate Ghanshyam Singh and Munni who has an important presence in the story, stand out with their unique personas.  The ending has been presented very well. The reveal was gradual yet ...