Shivam

So, I’ve finally finished The Final Gambit, the last book in The Inheritance Games series, and… yeah, it was underwhelming. The whole series had potential, but this final book just proved that it never really lived up to it.

This book, like the others, is fast-paced and easy to read. After the halfway mark, it became more interesting than the first two books, and there were a few twists that kept me engaged. The puzzles were a little more creative this time (finally, some variety). The romance was also slightly better, but maybe that’s just because I’ve been reading all three books back to back and got used to it.

But there are a lot of issues. The characters still feel flat and underdeveloped, which made emotional moments fall flat too. The mystery and revelations were mostly predictable. I guessed almost everything before it happened, and when the “big reveals” came, they didn’t feel earned. The family dynamics were all over the place—one moment, something feels important, and the next, it’s brushed aside like it never mattered. No consistency.

The convenience in the puzzles and mysteries was frustrating. Everything was just handed to the characters with minimal effort. Speaking of convenience—how many secret doors does this mansion even have?! Every time something needed to be found, a new secret passageway magically appeared. It became a joke at some point. The ending was the biggest letdown. No tension, no real stakes, no struggle. Everything was just smooth sailing, which made the conclusion feel completely underwhelming.

One of my biggest issues with this whole series is that Avery never truly struggles. Everything works out for her way too easily, which makes the story feel lifeless. The author also spoon-feeds the reader every little detail, as if we’re not capable of figuring things out on our own.

If you’re looking for a light mystery-thriller with a sprinkle of romance, then you might enjoy this. It’s fast-paced, easy to read, and not boring—just don’t expect anything deep, clever, or emotionally gripping. If you’re okay with predictable mysteries, generic characters, and a lack of real stakes, then go for it. But if you want something that truly challenges you or makes you feel something? This series probably isn’t for you.

The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes was a more engaging read compared to the first book, The Inheritance Games. This time, the mystery and twists kept me more intrigued, and there were plenty of surprises. Some of these twists were genuinely good, while others felt unnecessary and out of place, as if the author was just cramming in as many as possible without proper buildup.

The characters, unfortunately, remained a weak point. They still felt flat and lacked depth, making it hard to connect with any of them. While the romance improved slightly compared to the first book, it was still far from memorable or exciting.

One of my biggest gripes was with the puzzles. They were repetitive and far too similar to those in the first book. It felt like the author didn’t even try to add anything new or creative to this aspect of the story. Considering the puzzles are supposed to be a big selling point of the series, this was a letdown.

That said, the book was incredibly easy and fast to read. After I got halfway through, it became difficult to put down despite its flaws. The pacing was solid, and the story did a good job of keeping me curious enough to finish it. The ending was satisfying, though nothing extraordinary.

Overall, The Hawthorne Legacy was an improvement over the first book in terms of intrigue and twists, but it still had the same issues with underdeveloped characters and lackluster puzzles. I’d rate it 3 out of 5 stars. It’s a fun, light read if you don’t set your expectations too high.

So, I just finished The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, and I have some mixed feelings about it. It’s definitely a fast-paced book, super easy to read, and one of those stories where you can breeze through without much effort. But while it started off okay, it didn’t quite live up to the hype for me.

Let’s start with the positives: the book is quick, and the short chapters make it easy to keep going. It doesn’t feel overwhelming, and if you’re looking for something light, this definitely works. But here’s where things went downhill for me.

First, the characters. I just couldn’t connect with them. They felt generic—like they were there to fill a role in the story rather than being real, interesting people. I kept waiting for them to show some personality or depth, but it never really happened. And because of that, I wasn’t invested in what was happening to them.

Then there’s the mystery. This is a book that’s all about puzzles and secrets, right? And I was expecting this mind-blowing twist or revelation at the end. But honestly, the big reveal just felt… flat. It was predictable, and while the last few chapters were engaging and did manage to hook me, the payoff wasn’t worth the buildup.

Oh, and the romance? Yeah, it’s there, but barely. It felt undercooked, like the author just threw it in because it’s expected, not because it actually added anything to the story.

Another thing that bugged me was all the unnecessary details. It felt like the author was trying to make the book longer just for the sake of it. Some parts felt like filler and didn’t add anything to the plot or characters.

To be honest, I feel like this book was written with a movie or TV adaptation in mind. It’s got that vibe, like it’s more about the visuals and the drama than creating a really engaging story on paper.

All that said, it’s not the worst book I’ve read. It’s fast-paced, and the last chunk of the book did get my attention for a bit. If you go into it with low expectations and just want something light, it might work for you. But for me, it didn’t hit the mark.

I’d give it 2.5 out of 5 stars. I’ll still read the next book in the series to see where it goes, but I’m not in any rush to pick it up.

So, I recently picked up Crooked Kingdom, the second book in the Six of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo. To be honest, I was kind of on the fence about it from the start because, let's face it, fantasy books just aren't my thing. Still, I gave Six of Crows a shot and ended up liking it. It wasn't mind-blowing, but it was decent—especially once the story picked up after the first 50 pages or so.

Fast forward to Crooked Kingdom, and I can't lie—this book just isn't working for me. I'm about 150 pages in, and the excitement I felt in the first book is nowhere to be found. It's not that the writing is bad or that the book itself is flawed. I think the problem is me. This genre doesn't really click with me, and trying to get through a second installment feels like a chore.

I noticed that Crooked Kingdom doesn't seem to have the same momentum as Six of Crows. While the first book eventually grabbed my attention after a slow start, this one hasn't done the same. Even after 150 pages, I'm still waiting for something to hook me, but instead, it's been dragging. I wouldn't say it's boring in the traditional sense, but it feels like nothing is pulling me into the story.

What's making this even harder is that I've never DNFed a book in my life—ever. But this might just be the first one. It's tough to admit because I'm usually someone who powers through, no matter how slow or uninteresting the story gets.

If you're into the fantasy genre or loved Six of Crows, you'll probably enjoy Crooked Kingdom. For me, though, it feels like the wrong book at the wrong time, and I might not have the patience to see it through to the end. It's not the book; it's me.

It's a good book even though it's my first book I enjoyed it. The story is not unique or amazing but it's a good book to pass your time. It's a typical love story with a simple plot and and somewhat creative in the end.

Hey there! So, I just finished reading “The Fellowship of the Ring” by J.R.R. Tolkien, and I thought I'd jot down my thoughts. Keep in mind, I'm not usually into fantasy books, but I decided to give this a shot since it's such a classic.

First off, this was my introduction to proper fantasy literature, and I've got to say, it kind of confirmed my suspicions that fantasy might not be my cup of tea. Don't get me wrong, the book wasn't bad – it just didn't blow me away.

The story follows Frodo, a hobbit who inherits a powerful ring and sets off on a journey to destroy it. Sounds exciting, right? Well, it kind of is, but also kind of isn't. The whole book felt like one long walking tour through Middle-earth. We meet new characters, visit different kingdoms, and face some dangers along the way. It's definitely an adventure, but sometimes I found myself thinking, “Okay, but when is something really going to happen?”

I will say that I enjoyed the characters and their interactions. Tolkien does a great job of making you feel like you're part of the fellowship. The friendships, the bravery, the scary moments – it all feels very real. But for me, the plot itself was a bit thin. It's basically “hobbit finds ring, hobbit must destroy ring” stretched out over hundreds of pages.

The writing style is pretty easy to follow, which I appreciated. However, I did struggle with remembering all the names of people and places. Seriously, does every character and location need such a complicated name?

By the end of the book, I wasn't super excited to pick up the next one in the series. I mean, I can see why people love it – the world-building is impressive, and there's a sense of epic scale to everything. But for me, it just didn't click in a way that made me want to invest more time in the story.

I'd give it 3 out of 5 stars. It's well-written and I can appreciate why it's a classic, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me personally. If you're into fantasy or want to check out a cornerstone of the genre, go for it! But if you're like me and prefer books with more straightforward plots, maybe think twice before diving in.

Remember, this is just my take as a casual reader. Millions of people absolutely love this book, so don't let my opinion stop you if you're curious about it!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

I've just finished reading “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky, and what a journey it's been. This book is a real rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. Dostoevsky's skill in getting into characters' heads is truly impressive. The way he portrays the psychological turmoil of the main character after committing murder is intense and believably human. His descriptive powers are off the charts too - you can practically see the gritty, poverty-stricken streets of St. Petersburg and feel the weight of the characters' emotions.

The book starts off a bit slow, but the second half really picks up, diving deep into psychological thriller territory. However, it's not always an easy read. The Russian names are a real challenge to remember and pronounce, which made keeping track of characters a bit of a headache for me. There's also a lot of what feels like unnecessary detail and “waffling” in parts of the book, which can test your patience.

One thing that stood out was Dostoevsky's unique conversation style. Characters often speak in long, unbroken monologues that can be both fascinating and frustrating. It's like the author doesn't want to give you a chance to catch your breath!

Despite these challenges, the book has a way of suddenly grabbing your interest just when you think it's getting boring. It keeps you engaged, even if it's not always comfortable. The ending, in my opinion, was perfect - wrapping up the story in a satisfying way.

Overall, while “Crime and Punishment” met many of my expectations, especially in terms of psychological depth and descriptive power, it was also a bit underwhelming in some aspects. The pacing issues and sometimes excessive detail can be challenging for modern readers.

I'd give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's a classic for a reason, but it's not without its quirks. Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you're into deep psychological exploration and don't mind a challenging read. Just be prepared for a bit of a mental workout!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

If you search for the best non-fiction (business) books list, the one that is popular even today is “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” and after reading it, I understand why. It's one of the best books on finance and it changed my perspective of looking at money.

Told in an interesting and engaging manner, Robert Kiyosaki advocates the importance of financial literacy. By using anecdotes from his life and the lessons he learned from his two father figures, the author explains the difference between the mindset of rich and poor regarding money.

In this book, the author points out the traditional mistakes people make while handling their finances and how the educational system does not focus on financial literacy. Therefore, he encourages people to learn about accounting, financial market, taxes and investing.

One of the fascinating things that stands out in this book is the stark difference between the point of view of the rich and poor person of looking at money. The rich dad sees money in a positive light which is at odds with the popular opinion about money.

Overall, this is an informative book. It made me interested in learning about finance and managing money in a better way. If you want to learn about finance, I highly recommend this book.

Ok so what can I say I was very exited when I purchase this book I thought that in some way it could change my life. But I was wrong this book is so repetitive and out of logic. I can give so many examples to prove that this book is totally illogical but I want it to be spoiler free. I know non-fiction books are somewhat repetitive but this books every next page something repetitive with illogical stories. This book has around 300 pages if you cut it down it will be around max 100 pages. The first 3 to 4 chapters were good but after that the author went overboard. I saw many people like this book they say it changed their life and I'm like WTF did i read this book wrong or didn't understand it, but the only reason I think of is I partially believe in God and Prayers that's why I feel that way, I don't know. The only good thing is that I didn't feel board while reading this book. The CONCLUSION is this, You can give it a try may be you like it may be it will change your life but it didn't work for me

As my first foray into Murakami's world, “Kafka on the Shore” proved to be an intriguing, if occasionally perplexing, read. This 500-page novel is a character-driven narrative that weaves together two parallel storylines, creating a tapestry of the real and the fantastical.

Murakami's writing style is undeniably unique - a blend of the weird, the imaginative, and the comforting. The author crafts a diverse cast of characters, each contributing significantly to the unfolding story. The dual narrative structure, following two distinct characters, adds depth to the tale, gradually revealing unexpected connections.

However, as a newcomer to Murakami's work, I found the story challenging to follow at times. The book touches on some dark and taboo subjects, which might catch some readers off guard. There were also moments where the portrayal of women felt objectifying, though I'd need to read more of Murakami's work to determine if this is a pattern.

Despite occasional lulls in the 500-page journey, the compelling narrative kept me engaged. The ending, while open to interpretation, left me craving more closure. This open-endedness, while thought-provoking, may not satisfy readers who prefer more concrete resolutions.

“Kafka on the Shore” is a book that likely rewards multiple readings, with layers of meaning to unpack. While I plan to revisit it in the future, I would caution against making this your first Murakami experience. It's a good and interesting read, but its complexity and unconventional structure might be better appreciated after familiarizing oneself with Murakami's style through his other works.

In conclusion, “Kafka on the Shore” offers a unique, often bizarre literary journey. It's a book that will make you think, occasionally puzzle you, but ultimately leave an indelible impression. For readers willing to embrace the unconventional, it promises a rich, if sometimes challenging, experience.

“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde presented a fascinating, albeit challenging, reading experience. Initially, I was captivated by the author's meticulous attention to detail and the vivid portrayal of emotions. However, as the narrative progressed, I found myself increasingly frustrated by the sheer volume of descriptive passages, often feeling that they detracted from the flow of the story.
Chapter 11, in particular, proved to be a significant hurdle. The excessive detail, while perhaps intended to convey the character's inner turmoil, felt unnecessarily drawn out and ultimately hindered my enjoyment. I questioned the necessity of such meticulous descriptions, wondering if a more concise approach would have been more effective.
The narrative took an unexpected turn, which surprised me and injected a new dimension into the story. While I didn't necessarily want the book to become a murder mystery, the shift in focus certainly made it more engaging.
Ultimately, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” offers a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as addiction, ignorance, and the corrupting influence of beauty. While I appreciated the author's ambition, I felt that the execution sometimes fell short, leading to a somewhat uneven reading experience. The book's strengths lie in its intriguing premise and the compelling conclusion, but the excessive detail in certain sections detracted from the overall enjoyment. I would give it a 3 out of 5 stars.
Perhaps I am not fully grasping the nuances of Wilde's writing style or the deeper meaning he intended to convey. Regardless, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” remains a significant work in literature, and I can appreciate the effort and artistry that went into its creation.

Hey there! I just finished “As Good As Dead,” the final book in Holly Jackson's “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” trilogy, and wow, what a ride! This book really cranked things up to eleven.

First off, this book is dark. Like, really dark. It's gripping, chilling, and emotionally intense in a way that surpassed even the first book for me. At 550 pages, it's a chunky read, but trust me, it flies by. The pacing is so good that it never feels like a slog.

Okay, I'll admit, the first 50 pages or so were a bit slow to get going. But once it picks up steam? Hold onto your hats, folks! The story just takes off and doesn't let up. It's divided into two distinct halves - the first part is all about the suspense and mystery we've come to expect from the series, while the second half veers into psychological thriller territory. It's like getting two books for the price of one!

What really blew me away was how well Jackson tied everything together. All those loose ends and clues from the first two books? They all come together in this finale in a way that's just chef's kiss. It makes the whole trilogy feel like one seamless story rather than three separate books. I'm not sure if Jackson planned it all out from the start or if she's just that good at weaving things together, but either way, it's impressive.

The character work in this book is top-notch. You really feel for these people, especially the main character. The way the book handles heavy topics like depression, anxiety, and trauma feels authentic and respectful. It adds a layer of emotional depth that really elevates the story.

Now, if you're expecting the same kind of suspense throughout the whole book, you might be a bit let down by the second half. It's a different kind of tension - more psychological than mystery-based. But personally, I was here for it. The whole thing felt like watching an intense movie unfold in my mind.

Overall, I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars. Sure, there were a few tiny nitpicks here and there, but they're so minor they're hardly worth mentioning. This book, and indeed the whole trilogy, exceeded my expectations in the best way possible.

If you've read the first two books, you absolutely need to finish the trilogy with this one. And if you haven't started the series yet? Well, what are you waiting for? The experience of reading all three books is just amazing. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good mystery with a dark edge!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Hey everyone! I just finished “Good Girl, Bad Blood,” the second book in Holly Jackson's “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” series, and I've got some thoughts to share.

First off, this book picks up right where the first one left off, which is great for continuity. It ties up some loose ends from the first book while introducing a new mystery. I appreciate how Jackson managed to keep the familiar elements that made the first book work while still giving us something fresh.

The writing style remains consistent, which is a big plus. It's still engaging and easy to read, making it perfect for a binge-reading session. The main character and her sidekick continue to have great chemistry, which really helps drive the story forward.

However, I have to say, I liked the first book a bit more. The mystery in this one felt a little less gripping compared to its predecessor. Don't get me wrong, it's still good, but it didn't quite reach the same heights as the first book.

One area where I felt this book fell a bit short was in character development, especially for the new characters introduced. They didn't feel as fleshed out as I would have liked. The pacing is still fast overall, but there were a few spots where it felt like it dragged a bit.

The book still has its share of shocking moments, but I found the clues a bit more obvious this time around. In the first book, the hints were subtle and cleverly hidden. Here, if you're reading carefully, you might find yourself guessing the ending a bit too easily.

On the plus side, the emotional aspects of the story are well-handled, and there's a nice touch of romance woven throughout. The ending was satisfying, and despite my criticisms, the overall story is still very good.

I'd rate this book 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's a solid sequel that fans of the first book will likely enjoy. While it may not quite live up to the high bar set by its predecessor, it's still a very enjoyable read with strong characters and an intriguing plot.

If you loved the first book, definitely give this one a shot. It might not blow you away, but it's a worthy continuation of the series that'll keep you entertained from start to finish.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

What can I say this book totally justifies its title ‘How To Win Friends and Influence People'. I mean this book is around 300 pages, 4 parts and 30 chapters and I can guarantee you, you can learn something important from each chapters. This book is for those who don't know what to and when to talk to people, including me. Anyways I can totally say that this book when it was published was way ahead of its time, this book is totally suitable for this generation and also works for next generation as well because this world is very much dominated by person who know how to talk to people.

And the writing style omg, it was just amazing, the way Dale Carnegie write some aspects was just flawless, it was like he himself narrating all the stories and his experience. There is nothing negative in this book if I pinpoint, only one negative point I can think of is some middle chapters were rushed quickly and not elaborated efficiently but that doesn't bother anyone.

So my final words would be read it just read it even if you are extrovert, ambivert or introvert give this book a try and you will be surprised that how much you need this book.

The Metamorphosis I think it is a good book to read in one sitting because it is very thin book about 100 pages (depends on publication). This book is almost his biography, his relation with his father, his family and his job. I read this book in the perspective of how Kafka feels what he's gone through, I already read about him before reading this book and really helps in reading the book.You will compare some instances from this book to his real life. But put this all aside, it is decent book to read not extraordinary that some people call (everyone have their own opinion). There is not much you can get from his book and in end you fell depressed and sad also. I'll not talk more because of spoilers, but this book is for those who want to read a short book.

This is considered to be one of the best fiction novels and no doubt it is a great novel. After I read the book, I just had to watch the movie and oh boy!, what a beautifully written book. The book definitely arose more emotions than the movie. Gatsby is about the emptiness that is profound in the lifestyle of the society where values are completely distanced from the opulence. The more you read this book, the more you would fall into it.
This is a tragic love story. The feelings are intense and at times you would feel so much for Gatsby. There are things you can't buy with money and that is what is shown profusely in the novel. This is a very simple story but a very very complicated one at the same time. There is a lot of symbolism that one may want to understand a bit in detail. So do a bit of research on those scenarios that the author is building. This one is a classic and will always be with me. You have to read this book more than once to completely grasp what Fitzgerald is trying to convey.
Gatsby is a great character that Fitzgerald has developed and many people will relate with him. Daisy is the demure girl that many people would feel so much for. This book rouses emotions and feelings to a different level.

Just finished “White Nights” by Dostoevsky, and man, what a ride! First off, word of advice: don't read the synopsis if you can help it. My copy had spoilers in it, which kinda sucked.

This book hit me right in the feels. I totally connected with the main character – his emotions were so relatable, maybe not as intense as his, but close enough that I almost teared up a few times. It's a quick read, only about 60-70 pages, so you can knock it out in one sitting if you're feeling it.

Dostoevsky's writing is something else. The way he captures emotions is just... wow. You literally feel what the characters are going through. The psychological stuff in this book is insane, in a good way.

That said, I gave it 3 out of 5 stars. Don't get me wrong, it's good, but I wanted more. The relationship between the characters felt a bit rushed, and I wish it was longer so we could see things develop more. I know it's a novella, so I can't complain too much, but still – I was left wanting more from the characters and their connections.

Overall, it's a solid, heart-wrenching read that'll make you feel things. Just be prepared for it to end before you're ready to let go.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Alright, I've just finished “Normal People” by Sally Rooney, and let me tell you, this book is an absolute banger!

First off, I gotta say, this has shot straight to the top of my favorites list. I've only read about 20 books so far, but man, this one's the cream of the crop. I couldn't put it down - seriously, I was itching to pick it up every time I had to stop reading.

The characters? They got me hook, line, and sinker. Even though I'm not exactly like them, I felt their struggles in my bones. And it wasn't just the main duo - every character had me caring about them. Rooney's got a knack for making you feel like you know these people.

Now, I'd seen the TV show before (which, by the way, is also top-notch), but the book still had me glued to the pages. There's just something about Rooney's writing, you know? Every single line felt important - no filler here!

One part that really got me in the feels was when Connell opened up about his mental health. That monologue? Waterworks, I'm telling you. It hit hard.

Compared to “Beautiful World, Where Are You” (Rooney's other book I've read), this one's my jam. Don't get me wrong, they're both about people figuring themselves out, but “Normal People” just clicked with me more.

Oh, and the ending? It's open-ended, which I dig. Lets you imagine what might happen next.

Bottom line: five stars, no question. Would I recommend it? Hell yeah, to everyone and their dog. Whether you've seen the show or not, do yourself a favor and read this book. It's the real deal.

A must read book to learn about money, investing and staying wealthy. Extremely useful fundamental money lessons explained without any technical terms using engaging real life stories (the author talked about why stories are more powerful than statistics) and incidences. Although the book is a list of lessons and advices, it's so well written that you never get bored of it. In fact, you look forward to new lessons and newer examples that second those lessons. Another interesting thing about this book is all those money lessons have some really important life lessons among them, which I found totally relatable and really necessary to think about and act accordingly. For example the author writes - ”Happiness is a complicated subject because everyone's different. But if there's a common denominator in happiness—a universal fuel of joy—it's that people want to control their lives.” Or about failure he writes - ”Failure can be a lousy teacher, because it seduces smart people into thinking their decisions were terrible when sometimes they just reflect the unforgiving realities of risk. “ The book is full of such easily ignored but extremely true statements about simple things in life. I would recommend that everyone new in finance should read this book atleast once and would love to read it again and again to remind myself of all those valuable lessons on life and money. The author ends the book by writing about his own finances before which he very aptly points out - “The difference between what someone suggests you do and what they do for themselves isn't always a bad thing. It just underscores that when dealing with complicated and emotional issues that affect you and your family, there is no one right answer. There is no universal truth. There's only what works for you and your family, checking the boxes you want checked in a way that leaves you comfortable and sleeping well at night.”

Hey there! So, I just finished “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson, and wow, what a ride! This book really surprised me in the best way possible.

First off, this book is like a buffet of genres - you've got murder mystery, thriller, suspense, and even a dash of romance. It's got a little something for everyone, and somehow it all works together brilliantly.

What really stood out to me was the writing style. Jackson has this unique way of presenting the story that makes you feel like you're right there, conducting the investigation alongside the main character. It's immersive and engaging, pulling you deeper into the mystery with each page.

The characters in this book feel incredibly real and relatable. I found myself genuinely caring about them and their stories. The connections between characters develop organically, which adds another layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Now, let's talk about the mystery itself. While it might not have made me scream out loud in shock, it definitely had its “Oh my God, what just happened?” moments. There are these mini-surprises scattered throughout the story that keep you on your toes. And here's the cool part - if you're paying close attention, you might just pick up on some subtle clues about the main culprit. It's like the author is challenging you to solve the case alongside the protagonist.

One of the best things about this book is how easy it is to read. Once you start, it's hard to put down. The pacing is spot-on, keeping you engaged from start to finish. It's the kind of book that makes you lose track of time because you're so absorbed in the story.

I'd rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. While it might not be absolutely perfect, it's pretty darn close. It's definitely up there with some of the best YA mysteries I've read.

So, I just finished “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, and I gotta say, it was pretty interesting. Just to be clear, I'm not really into politics at all - it's actually kinda boring to me. I picked up this book mostly ‘cause I was curious about the struggles of Black people and how Barack became the first Black president.

Honestly, I ended up really enjoying it. It's weird, but I actually got goosebumps a few times while reading - that's never happened to me before with a book! The pacing was good, and there were some nice bits of wisdom scattered throughout.

The book covers Michelle's whole journey from childhood to leaving the White House as First Lady. It was pretty interesting to read about her struggles and what America was like back then. The main theme seems to be Michelle constantly asking herself, “Am I good enough?” She had to prove herself to everyone because she was a Black woman.

A couple things bugged me though. Sometimes it felt like she was harping on about race a bit too much. I get that it's important, but it got a little repetitive for me. There were some other parts that dragged on too.

Overall though, it was a good read. I'd recommend it even if you're not into politics. I'd give it 3.5 out of 5 stars.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

What can I possibly say about this amazing novel, 1984 by George Orwell, that hasn't been already said by many who have read the book for over half a century. When it is said that the book is ‘haunting', ‘nightmarish', and ‘startling' any reader would have to agree! This well known novel grips the reader from the beginning and does not even let go of the grip at the finished reading and the ending what can I say “Winston's welcomed acceptance and outright love of his defeat is what is so sad. In the end, he utterly betrays himself and all his values – and is glad to do so. If he was just defeated, it would be merely tragic; the hero fallen. In mere defeat, there can at least be a kind of grace or honor of having fought the good fight. But his almost ecstatic joy at being finally and fully defeated makes it so much worse. There is no dignity, no hope, no self, no human being left. And, of course, that's the point.”
. A classic you won't want to miss if you haven't taken the time to read it yet.

Wow! Just wow!

Sherlock Holmes is a really famed character, he is the most popular detective in the pop culture and is the most portrayed movie character of all time. But I had never read any Sherlock Homes before and the only Sherlock Holmes movie I had watched was “Sherlock Holmes by RDJ”. Still this collection amazed me a lot!

Most people read these books for the great character of Sherlock Holmes but the thing which I liked the most was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's storytelling. Plus there were some other great characters too, one character which isn't mentioned much in the list of great characters by Conan Doyle yet I liked him very much was the protagonist of the second half of the last novel (John MacMurdo).

The first novel, A Study in Scarlet is a good novel though it's first half was extremely boring. The transition to the second half was hard for me too but once I got into the second half, I realised it was much better than the first one.
The second novel, The Sign of the Four is not a bad novel but it is not as good as other novels in this collection, according to me. Also this book has some racist and sexist elements which make it unsuitable for some of today's readers, but I don't think that's something to criticize as it is also a product of it's time.
The third novel, The Hound of the Baskervilles doesn't begins just after the events of the second novel, they are seperated by a bunch of short stories which aren't included in this collection. That's actually a good thing because now the author doesn't waste time in strengthening the partnership of Holmes and Watson. This novel is the best one in the collection and can be even read as a standalone. It is in this very novel why I realised Sherlock Holmes is this popular.
The fourth novel, The Valley of Fear is also seperated from the third novel by a bunch of short stories. This novel's plot is similar to that of the first novel but better. Unlike previous novels, it connects to the short stories and mentions some of the characters which don't appear in novels but only in short stories like Professor Moriarty.

But to conclude, I'll say the book was amazing, the plus point of the book was story telling, so was its negative point Sir Doyle over explains the situation which isn't needed. But overall I can say every one can read this book even if you saw BBC Sherlock or Sherlock Holmes by RDJ you will find many interesting things.

A good book to read on one sitting. A simple story that teaches us small things that matters in our life.

This was the first collection of Sherlock Holmes short stories that I read! I was quite surprised by how short each of the mysteries were, and how fast they flew by. But I did enjoy them. I loved seeing the deduction at work, and it was iconic finally reading about the duo. From the speech I could easily tell that the BBC casting for the series had been done so well. I felt like the endings were a bit too abrupt at times, and sometimes the stories felt quite short. I did like what characterisation I read, but I didn't fall head over heels in love with either Holmes or Watson like I expected to. Loved the plots to the mysteries and the solving of them though!