Life update!

Hello readers,

It’s been really long time since I logged on to my blog or to be more specific, I have been away from blogging world for a while. I didn’t mean to abandon my blog, it’s just that many things got in my way and couldn’t find time to sit down and write couple of lines. My first semester of Masters program was pretty laid-back with little fun in the head, but it got more intense as time passed on. To keep up with consistent grade I had to work more and eventually that turned out to be no me time. Just 15 more days to finish up this semester and head back  home for a month long vacation with my Hubby. We planned to visit the Mall of America over the Christmas break which is a 4 hour drive from our place. Amidst of final prep I’m taking quick breaks to keep myself sane by catching up on my favorite TV series on Netflix, watching videos on YouTube and reading couple of pages of book. Being a bibliophile, I wish I had more time to read for pleasure. Wish me Luck for an exam on Monday(7th December) and a presentation that I have on the same day. I will keep you all posted about how I handled it. 

P.S. I promise to post at least couple of lines each day henceforth. 

Life with Roomies!!

Hello lovelies!!! I know I’ve been MIA way toooo long. I’m back home for winter break. Yes, it’s home sweet home!! As I already mentioned in a post, I was pretty much caught with my Grad school. I haven’t had time to read in the past 4 months. Well, don’t fret, I’m not here to whine about that. I’m considering it as a good break. August was the month that I stepped into university with nothing but one thought of getting grade ‘A’ in all of my courses. Never thought I would have so much fun. I’m blessed to have super cool roomies, A and S. We three always stick together no matter what the situation is. S is the bubbly girl that cheers A and me when we are feeling low. A and I have pretty similar characteristics and we gel together so well. The three of us have explored eat-out places in and around university. S has a little addiction to selfies, that I’m not able to have the count of selfies we took in the span of 4 months. I would be happy to post in a picture of us, but I’m not sure if A and S would be comfortable with it. The three of us wanted to visit Chicago, which happened only a few days ago. Since Chicago is couple hours drive from Wisconsin, Husband and I hang out often in the city, but It was so much fun with my roomies this time. You may ask, what I have been doing the last one week —- I have been watching back to back movies which I think has been influenced by a huge movie buff, none other than my roomie S. Long story short, A and S are my BFF :) 

I have gotten back to reading, and I was lucky enough to snag new releases from my library. Also, husband gifted me some awesome books that I can’t wait to share it with you guys. Stay tuned for my next post about books that I will be reading over my winter break.  

(Manga Mini-Review): Fraction by Shintaro Kago

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RATING: 4 STARS

REVIEW: 

This is my first manga by Shintaro Kago. I have been in search of straight up horror/gruesome murder mangas and one of my friend recommended Fraction to me. Kago is an excellent manga artist. If you’re reading this review, then I assume you have a pretty strong stomach. By any chance that you’re a squeamish person, this isn’t the right book for you. It has extreme mature contents and explicit scenes and the murders are grisly. Let me admit, it was unconformable at certain moments. The story is discussed in two perspectives:
1. The serial killer is on killing spree and gets all kinds of meta and crazy as it progresses. In this, a bunch of waiters and waitresses in a small diner, discuss the murders and try to find who the murderer is before the detectives. 

2. The manga artist discussing his next project with the editor of a magazine and discussing the recent murders in the city. This is the most interesting part, as the artist portrayed here is Kago, himself and he discusses how crime/mystery novels trick the readers. Also, this is the section where dark twist happens. **Jaw-dropped**

All you have to know, is Fraction deals with horror/murder and heavy sexual content. One of the best Mangas I’ve read this year. 

Source: inisravishingreads

On Hiatus

Hey Everyone!! This is a quick post to let you all know that I will be on Hiatus for a month. You must have noticed that I haven’t been posting lately and also not commenting on my favorite blogs. I have a pretty legit reason, I guess. I’m moving to Michigan for my Grad school work and the past couple weeks have been busy for me - Mailing out documents, actively looking for an accommodation, following up with apartment coordinator, looking out for roommates and of course packing. Although, Michigan is neighboring state of Wisconsin, I haven’t been there. It’s exciting and sometimes jumpy to think that I’ll be managing my stuff on my own. Husband and I have figured out the best way to keep in touch, since we’ll have to deal with long-distance relationship for a while. Anyways, I’ll see you all from Michigan. Have a wonderful August and Happy reading!!  

P.S : Anyone from the Michigan area? I would love to get some info about the state. If so, please leave a comment stating the best way to reach to you. 

(Review) : Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

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RATING : 4.5 STARS

REVIEW : 

Although, I’ve sat down to type out my review for Speak multiple times, words never came. It’s been over a month since I read the book, even now I’m staring at my laptop screen, my brain can’t string any words for review and I can see Speak rendered me an emotional wreck. Speak is an extremely heartfelt and emotional story. All I would say is, Anderson is a prolific writer I have ever came across in my entire life. Speak deals with quite heavy issue, but the way it was handled, flabbergasted me. Speak is being assigned in English classes for junior high or high school students. I haven’t had a chance to read it in any of my English classes. Anderson’s books are highly regarded and it took me so long to get my hands on her book. 

Melinda Sordino, our protagonist once a happy teenager is now, an outcast at the start of her high school. The reason : She busted the end-of-summer party by calling the cops. Her once best friend, Rachel now becomes ex best friend Rachelle. The new girl, Heather is the only person that talks to Melinda. Does that count as a friend? Heather comes across as a good person, until she starts hanging out with the so-called-popular group. Nobody, in school bothered to ask Melinda what had happened at the party. It is evident to the readers, that Melinda is going through something rough. Does everyone know the real reason for Melinda’s transformation as taciturn? - It will, only when Melinda speaks up.

Although, Melinda was not interested in her academics, art class lures her. She finds serenity in art, and she tries to express her trapped feelings through it. Melinda soon becomes a favorite student of Mr.Freeman, the art teacher. The most endearing person in this novel is Mr.Freeman. He doesn’t push Melinda, albeit he figures out there is something going on with her. Will Melinda be able to open up to her art teacher?  

Speak revolves around teenagers more specifically, Melinda’s issues and that being said, we get more insight of high school experiences. It is powerful novel that every individual must read, albeit not being the target audience. I don’t want to giveaway what issue Melinda faces, but I could most definitely tell you all it’s a tough thing. If you’ve read the book, you know what I’m talking about, if not it’s best to get into the story without knowing anything. 

Anderson’s writing is raw and powerful that makes the readers empathize with Melinda. It’s  the writer’s prerogative to embellish things, but Anderson delivers the story without any of those that will thaw any of the coldest hearts. If you’re someone contemplating picking this book up, there are no second thoughts, I would highly recommend it. One of the best books I have read this year. 

(Review): The Art of Lainey by Paula Stokes

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RATING : 3 STARS

REVIEW : 

Contemporaries is one of my favorite genres. That being said, I pick out the ones that are not cliched. Couple months ago, when the ARC(Advance readers copy) of The Art of Lainey was getting a lot of attention from bloggers, it caught my eye. I wasn’t sure if I would be interested, but reading all glowing reviews from my fellow bloggers, I couldn’t resist but request a copy, myself. I should say, I wasn’t completely sold. I could predict how things were going early on. Most of the contemporaries that I have read and enjoyed in the past, could also be predicted, but with The Art of Lainey, albeit different concept, it involved some melodrama that ticked me off. 

The varsity soccer player, Lainey Mitchell gets dumped by her boyfriend, Jason, in front of so many people and her co-workers. Lainey decides to win him back, and for that she seeks the help of her best friend Bianca. The two, get online to find some tips to win back Lainey’s boyfriend. Every possible tip they find sounds very cliched. It was Bianca, who gives the book The Art of War written by an ancient Chinese, Sun Tzu. Lainey uses the war strategies to get back Jason. Lainey reaches out to Micah, her co-worker to help her out. Micah, recently broke up with his girlfriend too and agrees to help Lainey, thinking that it might also help him win back his girlfriend. 

What I liked? Firstly, strong friendship between Lainey and Bianca. While most YA contemporaries fail to focus on female friendship, Stokes made the friendship sound so perfect and realistic. Although, both have different dreams, they support each other for their decision. Second, Lainey comes across as a shallow person at the start of the story, but her growth was excellent as the story progressed. 

I was exasperated at certain moments.What are they? -  I was thrilled to see how the use of war strategies could work, but in the end it turned out to make your ex-boyfriend/ex-girlfriend jealous. I couldn’t see anything new by incorporating details of The Art of War. I’m not a fan of fake dates but I did enjoy Micah’s choice of places-who wouldn’t enjoy House of Torture (for Pancakes) !! Again, I wasn’t a fan of Jason. At certain moments he sounded as jerk. I couldn’t see why Lainey was so focused on winning him back. All these my personal qualm.

The Art of Lainey was a cute summer read. Of all the glowing reviews I’m in the minority. I would recommend to pick up a copy of The Art of Lainey and find it for yourself. Although, I wasn’t greatly impressed with The Art of Lainey, I’m waiting for Stokes next book.  

My Life Documented in a Month

Hello lovelies, I’m glad to be back after my vacation. Just in case if you’ve missed anything on my blog, here is a small recap:  April 9 - May 10, a month full of fun, and family bonding with my parents and relatives.

It’s been a week since my parents left back to India. A month has just gone by within a blink of an eye. My heart  wants the time to get backward a month but, I know it’s high time to face the reality. Alright, before you blase, I’ll jump right into my fun filled month long trip. 

Early April in Wisconsin was like extended winter this year. Having been dried up in hot sun all round the year in India, it was a pleasant experience for my parents. Couple days after they came over, Wisconsin had  2 inches of snow. The very next day it started to rain, I’m used to this weather and didn’t find anything different. My dad and mom enjoyed the weather more than what I felt the first time I moved here. Our first place was  Chicago. It was a 2 hour drive to The Windy City. Shedd Aquarium(Chicago) was a good attraction spot, one of the biggest aquarium in Mid-West.  

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One whole day is definitely not enough if you want to watch all the shows. We picked out the best show, and we were lucky to see the Dolphin show. The show was around late noon, so we were able to have a look at the most parts of the aquarium. Dolphins naturally possess special abilities and the trainers are the ones who bring out to the public. It was an amazing show. End of show, marked the end of aquarium.We decided to take a walk along the lake Michigan. The cool breeze, blowing wind, and the smell of spring was a perfect evening walk. What’s fun without visiting the Bean. The slow walk lead us to the Bean. Snapping pictures and had a relaxing time at the Millennium park.  Chicago was such an amazing city. Although, I have a lot of friends in Illinois area, I couldn’t drop by to anyone’s place. It was a short trip. 

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Day 2 at Chicago: Shopping spree at Woodfield Mall. Almost the entire day went by shopping. We wanted to have a night time view of the city. Navy pier is the best. Dazzling lights and sky-scrapers were astounding.

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Although, Chicago has many attractions we had to cut down a lot since the duration of my parents stay is just one month. Bags packed  for the next destination - San Francisco. We had a good time at my Sister-in-law’s place. It’s not my first time at the City by the bay, but it was special this time with my parents. At my Sister-in-laws place, kids were the best. They are my sweetie pies. Had a good Indian breakfast prepared by my Sis-in-law, then off to visit the Golden Gate Bridge. 

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It’s always windy out at the Bridge, but the day we were there was too cold and windy than most of the days. As a resident of Wisconsin, the weather shouldn’t have been a problem, but believe me around 4 pm, I was freezing. The reason behind it was I just had only my fleece on. For anyone who would like to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, make sure the weather condition is perfect for talking a walk on the bridge. Nothing can be so relaxing than an evening walk with slight breeze and little talks with your loved ones by your side. 

The view of the Alcatraz Island was fantastic. Anyone, who is not aware of Alcatraz, here we go(the little info I know- I will have to google for deeper info): A rich history is associated with Alcatraz. The federal prison on Alcatraz Island in the chilly waters of California’s San Francisco Bay housed some of America’s most difficult and dangerous felons during its years of operation from 1934 to 1963. Here is a picture of Alcatraz Island taken from Ferry ride : 

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Later that evening we decided to take the Ferry, to get the full view of the bridge and the Alcatraz Island. That was a wonderful experience. It was little foggy and the bridge looked beautiful with little fog. The close view of the bridge was stunning. You guys, do take the Ferry ride from Pier 39, it’s worth it. The Ferry ride was the end of the day’s plan and we stopped at Saravana Bhavan(famous South Indian restaurant) for dinner.

Our next destination - Grand Canyon. Again it was a two hour plane ride from San Francisco to Phoenix and a two hour and 15 minutes drive from  Phoenix to  Flagstaff. The drive was around 10 pm and couldn’t actually enjoy the nature out there. Finally, Checked into hotel and I slept like a log. We spent the next two days to visit the beautiful Canyons. We took the South Rim and the sunset from Hopi Point is the best. If you visit South Rim, don’t forget to see either sunrise or sunset from Hopi Point. 

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Sunset from Hopi Point:

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The best view of sunset orange light on the Canyons:

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Grand Canyon had a lot of walking the entire two days and end of day 2 at Canyon we were all totally exhausted. The plan ride to our next destination - Connecticut was 7 hours from Phoenix. I had planned to read during the plane ride but all I did was sleep.   

Landed at the Bradley International Airport around 6:30 pm. I was so happy to see my Uncle(Dad’s brother) and my cousin brother at the airport. It’s family time again. Home cooked dinner by my Aunt was waiting. We all had a fabulous dinner. My Aunt is talented at cooking. Hartford, CT ( the place where my Uncle lives) is the place where I could finally relax. It just feels like home. The very next day my Uncle planned for New York, so we’ll hit the sack quite early. It’s a 2 hour drive from his place and of course NYC traffic do I need to say more? 

Day 1 at NYC : We rented out an apartment at the heart of the city. Got the keys and we put our bags in the apartment and headed straight to the Rockefeller Center. We took a mini tour and the guide was so funny, eventually we had a good time. Our next stop - Empire State Building. 

Around 7 pm the crowd was clicking pictures of the city. The night view is stunning. What an amazing view. Here is a picture for you all :

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NYC - you rock for the dazzling lights and skyscrapers. The next stop - Isn’t it pretty obvious?? Yes, it’s Times square. We walked around Times square and finally entered a restaurant at 11 pm for dinner, yes, a late dinner and thankfully it was open, surprisingly it was full,and luckily we got a table right away. 

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Day 2 at NYC: The Statue of Liberty. We took a Ferry to visit the Liberty Island. Wow, the first time to see the Liberty statue in person, what more can I add?? I was awestruck. 

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The entire evening was spent at the Madam Tussauds. Had a fantabulous  time snapping pictures with Celebrities. The moment we stepped into NYC, we had to transform to a New Yorker, that’s the best way to keep up with the people and traffic. Speaking of traffic, NYC has the worst ever traffic. Most New Yorkers don’t follow the rules. Guys, if you plan on visiting NYC watch out for traffic and plan accordingly. We traveled by bus, train and Taxi, the entire two days at NYC- A true New Yorker.  

The very next day we had planed for Whale watch at Boston, but we had to cancel it, due to a severe thunderstorm. Instead we went to the Museum of Science. I learnt a lot. It is a good place for anyone who loves Science. This officially marks the end of our trip. After a wonderful and quite tiring trip I’m back at my home sweet home.

Thanks for sticking with me in my journey, I hope you all enjoyed it!!

Today (May 18) is my MOM’s Birthday. I wish her a Fabulous birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!  

Book News (1) + Update

Book News is a new feature here on the blog, where you can get variety of book related information.

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There was a recent survey stating that people who read actual books are way more than those listening to audio books. Not long ago, I realized that I’m in love with audio books. Don’t you think it’s amazing, listening to a book while - driving, cleaning, laundry and many more. Last year around Spring, I came across SYNC. What is Sync?- It is a program that offers two audio books every week through out summer. One is a recent Young Adult book paired thematically with a classic. These audio books are absolutely free. Summer 2014 Schedule has been announced and it starts on May 15. They have amazing books this summer. Click here to check out SYNC. Enjoy the  audio books. 

Update:

I have been inundated with work over the past couple weeks. I apologize for not updating my blog. Although, my spring semester courses are not hard, I had to speed up my work to make sure I have enough free time this month(April). You might be wondering what I’m talking about, so here it is: My Parents are visiting me all the way from India. They are spending a month with me. Yay!! (: So now you get why all the rush in work. I want to spend some quality time with my Parents. We have short trips planned out.  

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The Yellow ones are the places we will be visiting. Pink is the place where I live. Just to give you all an heads-up for my inactive period from April 9 - May 10. I don’t want to use the word hiatus, mainly because I have some blog posts planned,but I’m unsure when I’ll be posting it. I hope to post it soon. I have some good books to read during my plane ride. I’ll make sure to write my review for those books and I’ll definitely read all your blog posts, albeit delay in commenting. Will keep you all posted. Happy Reading !! 

(Review) : Before I Go To Sleep by S.J Watson

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RATING : 4.5 STARS

GENRE : Psychological Thriller / Adult 

REVIEW :

Hands down, Psychological thrillers are my absolute favorite genre. Before I go to Sleep was suggested by a good friend of mine two years ago. Since then, it has been sitting on my shelf staring at me and finally I read it. I regret for not reading it sooner. This is the type of book that I’m always on the lookout for. Watson’s debut is stunning.

Have you ever imagined being waking up without any memory of how old are you in an unfamiliar place? Sounds creepy right? yes, it is. Christine Lucas (protagonist) wakes up every morning without realizing the fact that she is 47 years old and married. The man sleeping beside her says he is her husband, but she thinks she is in her twenties or sometimes even teen. Christine finds photographs of her and her husband Ben, pasted inside the bathroom with name written on it and only after that, she trusts the man who is in bed with her. She has to go through this every day. 

Christine had an accident years ago, in which she lost her memory and now she is an amnesiac which is quite bizarre that she can only retain the memory until she goes to sleep. The only memory she could remember at all times was about her childhood. Multiple trips to doctor’s, various scan and surgery didn’t help. Moreover, Ben lost hope and doesn’t want to see her go through all the painful time in the hospital and moves her back to home. Since then, Ben takes care of Christine although he works full-time. Many doctors approached Ben for Christine’s treatment, but he starkly refused it, because he can’t see her in pain again. Ben seems to be the perfect husband and there were moments that made me feel so sorry for Ben.  

Dr.Nash approaches Christine personally, after Ben’s denial and suggests that she maintain a journal to help her remember previous activities. Christine agrees to it and also he talks her out to get treatment without Ben’s knowledge. She has been meeting Dr.Nash at his office after Ben is off to work. The idea of journal has helped Christine to know what she is going through. She gets sparks of memory in her late twenties and when she tries to focus it would fade away. Christine makes sure to record every detail onto her journal. Sometimes on reading the past events she could figure out that moment leaving out some details, it is then she realizes that her journal is really helping her and determines to find out what made her land up in her present situation and who is responsible for that.

Almost everyday, Christine asks Ben what made her lose her memory, without an exasperated feeling he would tell her it was a hit-and-run car accident and Ben with the help of police found her lying on the road,but there was no record of any witness. People came to terms that it was a car accident, since she was found on the road. Christine has a feeling that something was wrong with the accident concept. She gets glimpses of the name Adam and upon asking Ben, he would tell her that name didn’t mean anything to him. Ben tries not to upset her by telling  about their deceased son, Adam. Ben always tells Christine that they didn’t have any children. 

After several office sessions with Dr.Nash, she confirms that Adam was her son and she grapples with whom to trust. She doesn’t understand why would Ben lie to her. She is determined to ask Ben about it and eventually, she understands Ben. Who would want to hurt her while she leads a happy life with Ben? With the help of her journal and Dr.Nash, Christine is close enough to find the truth.     

In all honesty, 75% of the book was like watching a paint dry, nevertheless the mystery kept me up to read. First part of the story was Christine adapting to her situation and meetings with Dr.Nash. The story gets really interesting when she starts digging out for answers. The entire plot makes sense with last ten pages or so. The ending blew me away completely. I was cringing in shock long after finishing the book. My rating was 80% based on the ending. It’s hard-pressed for any thriller fans to not like Before I go to Sleep. If you’re someone who loves thrillers or slightly leaning towards mystery, do give it a shot. Please, try to stick to the story despite it’s initial boring part and you’ll thank me for reading it. I’m on the lookout for Watson’s sophomore novel which is expected to be out sometime this year.     

Stacking the Shelves # 3

Stacking The Shelves is a book blogging meme started by Tynga’s Reviews, where we show what books, e-books, and other bookish things we got.

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For Review: 

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Torn Away will be my first Jennifer Brown’s work. I hope it doesn’t disappoint. 

Recently I was introduced to Ruby Oliver series and fell in love with E.Lockhart’s writing. I hope to enjoy We were Liars .

If you know me, then I’m sure The Fever is no surprise. I enjoy dark thrillers, and last year I read Megan Abbott’s Dare Me which was a good YA thriller and since then I wanted to read more of Abbott’s works. I can’t wait to start reading The Fever.

Before They Find Us will be my first venture into Michelle A.Hansen’s work. What more do I need if it’s a YA thriller? 

Hands down Psychological Thrillers are my all time favorite genre. I finished with In The Blood last night. It blew me away. I loved it. Review to follow soon. This is my third Lisa Unger book, and she is pretty close to Gillian Flynn - who is the  Queen of  Psychological Thrillers.

I read mixed reviews of The Here and Now  by Ann Brashares. I solely picked up this book since it was Brashares’s book. My all time favorite of Brashares’s work is  The Sisterhood of Travelling pants. Hope this book doesn’t dissapoint me *fingers crossed*. 

Borrowed: 

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Couple weeks back I read If I Stay by Forman and I wasn’t impressed but many people suggested that Where She went is much better than  If I Stay, so let me try my luck with Forman again. *fingers crossed*. 

I know Harlan Coben is an amazing  Mystery/Thriller writer, but I haven’t read anything by him. My Librarian suggested me Caught. 

You guys know how much I love Gillian Flynn. I came across books suggested by Flynn in a magazine and the next moment I was in the library searching for all those books. The only book I could find was A Simple Plan by Scott.B.Smith. 

Last year I read The Summer of Cotton Candy (Sweet Seasons # 1)by Debbie Viguie and I absolutely loved it. I didn’t know the reason for not proceeding with the series. I managed to snag a copy of The Fall of Candy Corn, (Sweet Seasons # 2) . It’s a short read, I guess I would be done with it today. 

What did you add to your shelves? Do link me, I would love to check out yours (:

Source: inisravishingreads