Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Poems, poetry

Cracked Flutes: Blues from the Soul vol. 1 by Obed Ladiny | Review

Cracked Flutes: Blues from the Soul – Volume 1 is literary venture through the poetic eye as various aspects of brokenness in our society and in our own lives are explored.

Ladiny’s reflections are about the things that concern everyone in everyday living. He has penned emotionally-charged poems flowing with rhythmic cadence and beautifully expressed verse. These poems help readers think about the really important facets of life.

Thought-provoking and inspiring, this book is sure to find a place in readers’ hearts as they bask in a lyrical observation of life.

Title: Cracked Flutes: Blues from the Soul vol. 1

Author: Obed Ladiny

Pages: 99

My review

Have you ever heard the songs from cracked flutes? How do you feel about them- disturbing, out of tune, desperate? But they are original, right? You may not like them but they do exist in this world.

One big cracked flute exists in our heart. It receives every beat down and thrashing. It hopes to produce melodious songs one day. But all that cracks can push out are unholy sounds. Each one represents the darkness looming around the past. These poems bear those songs.

Truth is not sweet. It is rough and brutal to consume. The pain is excruciating. It will overflow through our veins. These poems give you the same feeling. Oppression, colour, pain, anger, dilemma, greed, dreams, despair, sadness…everything is poured through words. They have a disturbing flavour of rawness. The emotions behind these words will strike straight through your heart.

Living each moment in your personal hell is not a good sight. How to get out from that ditch? Pour your heart out to a paper and fill it with void instead. That is better. These abstract poems are deciphering these emotions. They derive different meaning each time you read them. They safeguard some unexplainable magic under their wings for this.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, non-fiction, Self-Help

A Guide to Motivation, Happiness, Success & Resilience by Gavin Aubrey | Review

An action-oriented self-help book for those looking to seriously boost their motivation, happiness, success or resilience.

The brain is a magnificent thing. Unfortunately, it didn’t come with any instructions…

This book provides an easy to understand explanation of how our brains work when it comes to personal motivation, success, happiness and resilience.

So, if you want to know why some people jump the queue when it comes to job promotion, or why others are just, well… happier than you are, this quick and easy read will tell you all you need to know.

Title: A Guide to Motivation, Happiness, Success & Resilience

Author: Gavin Aubrey

Pages: 105

My review

A mind-blowing guide to crack the secret code to our brain

Brain is a fascinating part of our body. Unfortunately, we do not realize its potential in our lifetime. Everything we need is a mind game. Mastering in the control over our thoughts and mind is the path towards success and happiness. This is the journey to master this mind game.

Self-development is one of my favourite subjects for learning. I am always looking for original ideas in this field. But this book really surprised me. The methods and techniques devised are fresh and practical. The author has years of experience in training teams for better performance. This accumulates huge practical knowledge in this subject. Because of that, he knows what works and whatnot. These techniques are foolproof and backed by real-life opinions of people.

Our brain is deceptive. It knows our fears and insecurities. They drag us from reaching our goal. The author introduces techniques to eliminate these beliefs and fears. By applying these methods we can counteract with our belief system. It is the only sustainable way. The author uses the analogy of an iceberg to derive relations between our behaviour, beliefs, values, and feelings. This connection perfectly symbolizes our thought processes.

What I really liked about this book is, the methods to get out of the rut. No matter how motivated I’m, often I found myself in the ditches of rut. But these techniques helped me to eliminate this phase permanently. Understanding our brain and the origin of thoughts is the key.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fiction, short story

Crooked Creek: A Comedy about Writer’s Block and a Neurotic Home Owners Association by Fredrick Robertson | Review

Billy’s first novel launched him into literary stardom. Now all he has to do is write a second book. His decision to move back to his home town might not have been in his best interest. His Neurotic home owner’s association has different plans to manipulate and distract him.
This novella was created to make you laugh. If you have ever been part of a Home Owner’s Association than you know what I am talking about. The length of this novella was done on purpose so you could enjoy so many laughs by the pool, beach, or playground and then move on with your busy life. You will laugh out loud. Be prepared. This is the new Second Edition that has been professionally edited.

Title: Crooked Creek: A Comedy about Writer’s Block and a Neurotic Home Owners Association

Author: Fredrick Robertson

Pages: 73

My review

Crooked Creek is a perfect getaway from our hectic work life. The author is serving you a series of laughs with a pinch of satire.

Billy is an author who landed in literary stardom after publishing his first book. His agent and publishers are pushing him for another work. But he is struggling with writers’s block. He decided to move out to a condo in the quiet suburb to overcome this issue. All his plans get quickly derailed as the Home Owners Association decided to indulge and make his stay even more painful. Billy has to fight hard to cut himself loose from the strangling rules and sadistic people who determined to make his life miserable.

Although this is a hilarious account of the deceptive nature of people who pledged to make others life miserable, it offers more than that. Billy lands on a series of problems. All his attempts to boost his creativity are mercilessly crushed by these people. They are deliberately targeting him. People are squeezing others for their profits. They are eagerly waiting for new owners to hook their claws on. At some point, I felt sorry for Billy. He was helpless in some situations. I was pretty satisfied at the end because finally he turned around and used this circumstance for advantage. It was the befitting reply.

The author has done a fascinating job with narration and characterization. This novella might be tagged as end-to-end humor, but I can clearly see how he created empathy with very few words. That is the magic this book offers. It is a survival story but a hilarious one!

Check out the book here: Amazon.com Amazon.IN
Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fantacy, Fiction, historical fiction, supernatural, Thriller, Young-Adult

TIMESTAMPED: Book One- Postmarked Yesteryear by B. Patrick Bruce | Review

TO PROTECT THE FUTURE, WE MUST FIRST CORRECT THE PAST…

With the passing of her grandmother, and the inheritance of an antique holiday postcard collection, fourteen-year-old Rebecca Renford discovers she is a time corrector. Guided by interdimensional overseers and aided by a handsome, humanized computer historian (called a Continuant), with the selection of each vintage postcard from her album, Rebecca must travel back in time to help rewrite historical wrongs. Battling the omnipotent void and its never-ending roster of evil time disruptors (aka the Clan Gryves), Becca, as she is known by all who love her, is determined to seek vengeance for the deaths of her father and grandmother, Penelope Renford—the most recent time corrector. Smart, feisty and fearless, endowed with magical gifts she has yet to fully comprehend, Becca will stop at nothing until every last member of the Clan Gryves has been banished forever…back into the void, where all evil begins…and all evil belongs!

Title: TIMESTAMPED: Book One- Postmarked Yesteryear 

Author: B. Patrick Bruce

Pages: 294

My review

Timestamped: Book 1 of Postmarked yesteryear is a surprisingly original blend of supernatural and fantasy themes. The plot is fresh and captivating. I can guarantee that this strong female protagonist has the potential to go above and beyond in upcoming books. The plot is twisted to create a parallel world that is acting as a channel in time traveling. But the brilliance of this story lies in, how well the fantasy elements are woven with them.

A new world is created by blending past and present. The ability to travel back and forth in time does not come without responsibility. Becca is gifted and she must fulfill her destiny. She is fearless and determined. But she has to find everything on her own. Even the ability for time correction comes at her without any clue. This creates a sense of mystery and thriller. Becca’s journey is through an unknown path with awaiting dangers that can possibly threaten her life. The only thing that helps her in this journey is her intelligence and attitude.

One of the striking features of this book other than this unique plot is the prologue. A horrible crime is introduced right away on the first page itself. Because of that unusual beginning, I was so eager to connect this incident with the plot. But the author carefully delayed it and that incident is re-introduced only after the time was ripe.

The story is slow-paced at the beginning because the author took the time to introduce the background and characters. But once the main theme is uncovered, it quickly regains its pace. Then the whole story is like an unending maze, opening new doors one after another and giving new dimensions to the story.

Definitely, this is a masterpiece and I’m eagerly waiting to read the next installment in this series.

Rating: 5/5

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fiction, Thriller

Winston Churchill’s Renegade Spy by Steve Haberman | Review

Mid-1940, the darkest of the nights for Britain during WWII. Adolf Hitler’s unstoppable military has conquered most of Europe, including France, only twenty miles from the English coast. It is now set to conquer the island-nation itself. Plotting to aid this onslaught, a German spy lurks somewhere within Winston Churchill’s government.

​Such is the dire news an emissary of the prime minister secretly brings to disgraced Churchill bodyguard, Jonas Shaw, an ex-New York City detective, along with a plea: help discover the agent before the Nazis invade. Shaw has faced many challenges in his eventful life, but none as dangerous and fateful as this one, helping save Western civilization. First in a series.

Title: Winston Churchill’s Renegade Spy

Author: Steve Haberman

Pages: 265

My review

Winston Churchill’s Renegade Spy is a blend of action, politics, mystery, and conspiracy, all set in the background of WWII. Britain is on the verge of invasion and the prime minister suspects the presence of a German Spy within his government. Jonas Shaw, who was previously worked as Churchill’s bodyguard is bought back to find out the identity of this spy. This is his journey through conspiracy filled ditches of politics where greed is a prestigious possession. As he dives deep into this, the plot slowly unwinds. His suspicion changes with the introduction of new characters and twists. With the time running out, this grueling investigation is taking a toll on everyone’s life.

This is undoubtedly a well-written story. The deceptive nature of humans and how it frames the face of a generation is the crux of this story. The author transports us back to the exact scenario of WWII from the first page. The fear and misery bought by an imminent invasion is convincingly portrayed in the story. The economical and social challenges and how it has affected the lives of civilians are also mentioned. Although this is a very fast-paced thriller, the author has tactically introduced a vivid portrait of the war-wrecked society inside it.

A must-read for every thriller lovers.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fantacy, supernatural

Wild Hearts (Mermaids of Cornwall Book 1): A heartwarming romance set in Cornwall by Amaya Hart|Review

A lonely cottage sits peacefully by a secluded beach. Serenaded by the sea, and the beauty of the surrounding hillside. Home to two sisters – Olivia and Rosie – with mystical abilities.One day, the unconscious body of a man washes up on the beach. Rosie discovers, while tending to him, that there is more to him than meets the eye.The interjection of this stranger in the sisters’ lives leads them down a road latent with discovery. Not only of their shocking identities. But also of love.Olivia took a step forward. A tentative one. Then more steps followed.

“Oly”, Rosie warned, refusing to follow her sister.

The closer Olivia got, the more the unknown form grew into clarity, until she was staring at a young man, faced down in the sand, wet, and naked, with the waves lapping at his feet.He was still. Lost to the clinginess of the sand in which he lay, or any feeling at all, except for that of oblivion.

“Go get some clothing, Rosie.” Olivia called.Rosie was hesitant. She didn’t want to leave her sister behind with a stranger, even though he appeared dead.

“Rosie.” Olivia called again. And she ran off. In no time, she returned with a huge towel, which she flung towards Olivia. Olivia picked it up, spread it open, and draped it over the lower half of the man’s body. Then she turned him over, slowly, covering him up in the process.Olivia then noticed movement, the quiet up-and-down of the man’s chest. It was so faint, she hadn’t noticed it at first. He was alive. Olivia felt the cold flush of relief. And she didn’t know why.Like as if a veil lifted off her eyes, the young man became more prominent, his beauty coming into focus. He had a swimmer’s body, lean, strong toned muscles, long dark lashes, shoulder-length black hair glossy with wetness…Then Olivia saw other things. A trail of red running down his forehead. Cuts, like little lips, all over his arms.

“Everything okay?” Rosie called out.

“Go get the doctor, Rosie.” Olivia replied.

“Is he…”

“Just get the doctor.” Olivia said, cutting her off.

Rosie turned, and sprinted towards the cottage. Soon, a brown truck pulled out the backyard, and took the dirt track leading to the village some miles away.

Title: Wild Hearts (Mermaids of Cornwall Book 1): A heartwarming romance set in Cornwall

Author: Amaya Hart

Pages: 124

My review

Wild Hearts is a perfect blend of mystery and romance. The slowly unwinding mystery builds curiosity from the beginning itself. It has a perfect beginning. The author structured this book without losing the suspense. The characters and plot are introduced right away without any introduction or background narration. Their past is slowly introduced at specific points. The mystery is looming at every corner of their cottage in that secluded beach. Many questions are left unanswered at the end. The mystery is yet to resolve. This way the author sets a plot for the other books in the series.

This story has the potential to go above and beyond our imagination. The characters have the depth to carry the story. What I really liked about the plot is the strength of sisterhood. The bond between Olivia and Rosie is very special. They are not only connected with blood but also through mystery. By introducing a stranger to their peaceful life, the author has disrupted their routines. This will let them to explore the unknown. Their journey to finding themselves only began now.

A must-read for all romance lovers.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, non-fiction, Self-Help

Marketing Strategy Ultimate Planning Guide : For Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners by Scott Poniewaz | Review

A Marketing Strategy is at the core of any business and a marketing strategy is a must-have for any business owner or entrepreneur. This simplified, step-by-step guide to building, planning, and executing a marketing strategy is required reading for anyone trying to fuel growth and revenue for their startup or small-business.

Peter Drucker, the famous management consultant, said “Because the purpose of business is to create a customer, the business enterprise has two–and only two–basic functions: marketing and innovation.”

Many business owners and entrepreneurs think of marketing as an afterthought in their busy days. In reality, a well-planned, consistent marketing strategy is as necessary to keep your business growing consistently as a fitness plan is to keep your body healthy. In this marketing strategy ultimate planning guide, you will walk away with the tactics, tools, and tricks to build a plan that will be easy to follow, implement, and run even if you always struggle to maintain consistent marketing efforts. Boost your marketing strategy and grow your business in this unparalleled guide.

Title: Marketing Strategy Ultimate Planning Guide : For Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners

Author: Scott Poniewaz

Pages: 71

My review

Marketing is the driving force of a business. If there are no customers then there will be no existence for the business. Converting an audience into potential buyers needs effective strategies. Being a sought after marketing specialist, the author draws wisdom from his years of experience to this book. Scott is a serial entrepreneur and marketing strategist. He has been on both sides of a business, such as building a marketable product as well as reaching out to the buyers. This unique knowledge led him to greater success in this field. This book is a concise summary of his battle-tested tactics. Because of that, I find these techniques, believable, practical, and most importantly converting.

This book addresses all entrepreneurs and business owners. Because the basic principles of marketing remain the same regardless of the nature of business. These strategies dissect down the business to its end. It helps to analyze your competitors, their products, their audience with your product and its unique features. Finding this gap is the first step.

Marketing is now technology-driven. So the author also explains the methods and plans that have to be adopted to use this technological arm for marketing.

One of the best features I found in this book is simplicity. The author explains A-Z details with utmost clarity, without giving any chance to raise doubts in between. But this is not a book with theoretical concepts. It has an implementation plan. This unique feature separates this one from others.

The completeness of this book is fascinating. The author has left no stones unturned while writing this book. A must-read for everyone who wants to learn or innovate their marketing skills.

Rating:5/5

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Children's books, Comics, Young-Adult

Delly Belly by Milan Paul Kumar | Review

What if a mysterious event could save you from your most embarrassing moments? What if it could teach you everything you need to know and transport you back in time to get it right on your second try? Meet Dele – a successful young boy with a magical secret…

Title: Delly Belly

Author: Milan Paul Kumar

Pages: 13

My review

Dele is an ordinary boy. But he has a secret. His secret saves him from embarrassing situations. He is often bullied and body shamed by his peers. Instead of shutting himself off or reacting angrily, he looks into the reason. He gains his power from the very own subject that he is bullied. He considers his body as an asset and treasure. He regains his strength in all adversities. He is not the one who easily gives up.

This small story teaches our children a lot of valuable lessons. Dele has no friends. He certainly doesn’t excel in studies or physical activities. But he is a fighter. If you put him in a situation he will fight with all his might. He has the strength to overcome his weakness. He has the determination to learn things that he doesn’t know. He has the fire to excel in every challenge. These all are undoubtedly the best qualities everyone needs to excel in life.

The illustrations are bright and vivid which surely create a spark of imagination in children’s minds. The author has narrated an excellent and meaningful story along with these illustrations.

Amina Thajudeen Uncategorized

The Ultimate San Francisco 49ers Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard 49ers Fans! by Ray Walker

Do you think you’re the ultimate San Francisco 49ers superfan?

Do you have a buddy who bleeds scarlet and gold for the 49ers?

Do you want to learn about the history of your favorite five-time Super Bowl champion?

Even if those don’t apply to you, The Ultimate San Francisco 49ers Trivia Book is the best book to learn about the San Francisco 49ers and their history. This trivia book is packed with interesting facts about the 49ers from cover to cover, taking you from the playing fields of the Bay Area to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

Title: The Ultimate San Francisco 49ers Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard 49ers Fans!

Author: Ray Walker

Pages: 139

My review

This is an invaluable possession for every San Francisco 49ers fan. This short book invites us to a walkthrough of 76 year-long history of 49ers. I must say, this book is structured as a very interesting mix of facts and trivia quizzes. The author has traced the history of 49ers from its birth, ownership and legendary players. From owners Anthony Morabito to Jed York and players like Joe Montano, Steve Young, Jerry Rice and Ronnie Lott, who had given their blood and sweat to build 49ers as team to an emotion.

The author left no stones unturned to prepare this book.  It comprises every major and minor events, player stories and behind scenes which shaped the history of the team.

Overall, this is an impressive book written in a very engaging and interesting manner for every die-hard fans of 49ers.

Amina Thajudeen Uncategorized

The Ultimate Vancouver Canucks Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Canucks Fans! by Ray Walker

Have you been thrilled watching Quinn Hughes dominate during his rookie year? Did you laugh at the classy and hilarious way Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider handled their goaltender controversy? Did you jump out of your chair the day Vancouver drafted BOTH Sedin twins?

If you’re that type of fan, you’ve got to pick up The Ultimate Vancouver Canucks Trivia Book!

In a series of incredible, specially themed chapters, this book will test your knowledge of the best franchise the West Coast has ever seen! Try your hand at multiple-choice scenarios, prove your knowledge with true or false questions, and grab some great little-known anecdotes to share at the bar from the “Did You Know” sections.

Title: The Ultimate Vancouver Canucks Trivia Book: A Collection of Amazing Trivia Quizzes and Fun Facts for Die-Hard Canucks Fans!

Author: Ray Walker

Pages: 123

My review

Vancouver Canucks is undoubtedly one of the best teams ever produced in the history of NHL. They had their ups and downs, a fair share of controversies along with thrilling wins over a century-long history. They are the masters of keeping fans in the edge of the seat throughout the game. Cheering heart out for Canucks is a tradition.

This book is a walkthrough to their past, present, controversies and dramas. The author mixed the trivia quizzes with lesser-known facts and fun. I picked this book to relive the days dominated by Kirk McLaren and Trevor Linden.

Canucks had never a shortage of talented players. They rose to fame through persistent hard work. Many stories and facts in this book, underline this fact beyond any scope of doubts. Also, this book gives a greater joy of knowing my favourite team little more