His world. Her world. My world. Your world. It's all the same, yet entirely different. It's nothing but another one of God's oxymorons laughing at us. Some people spend their entire life waiting for an epiphany. While some live.
Sneha Babu’s debut novel Magic in Errors unravels a story showing how the Universe works in beautiful and heart-breaking ways—beginning with a neon-colored hair tie. Over the course of a few days, this seemingly insignificant accessory passes through the hands of six people; strangers, lovers, friends, and enemies. Every encounter sets off a chain reaction of events, forever altering their lives in ways they never could have imagined.
Amidst their unique struggles, a slum boy, musician, policeman, celebrity, movie agent, and businesswoman grapple with the struggle to truly live rather than merely survive. Their lives intertwine in intricate ways, as they confront devastating choices, experience powerful emotions, and endure lasting tragedies, even long after one of them murders another.
What lessons can the world teach us? Does it always pay to be kind? How could someone be connected to a person they have never met? How can a hair tie change the course of someone’s life? Find out in Magic in Errors.
This novella has a dreamy atmosphere but it has a lot of hard topics in it as well. The story is told from multiple points of view and it covers poverty, violence, love, crime, accidents, inequality and more. I found it an interesting read but a bit unsatisfying.
When i first started reading this story, I realised I had not paid enough attention to the description, and it was not, in fact, anything to do with magic. However, I decided to keep reading and became apprehensive. The pov kept shifting, and I couldn't connect with any of the characters. At the halfway point, I started to join together the pieces of the story, and it took quite a turn. Obviously, with a short story, it is hard to give space to get to know characters, but by the end, I had a glimpse of who they were, especially Raahil. I did not even remotely see how it ended coming. For that alone, my rating went up a star. The writing was good, but I did find myself thinking it would have been good as a longer fleshed out story. Could definitely see this being adapted for television.
His world. Her world. My world. Your world. It's all the same, yet entirely different. It's nothing but another one of God's oxymorons laughing at us. Some people spend their entire life waiting for an epiphany. While some live.
Sneha Babu’s debut novel Magic in Errors unravels a story showing how the Universe works in beautiful and heart-breaking ways—beginning with a neon-colored hair tie. Over the course of a few days, this seemingly insignificant accessory passes through the hands of six people; strangers, lovers, friends, and enemies. Every encounter sets off a chain reaction of events, forever altering their lives in ways they never could have imagined.
Amidst their unique struggles, a slum boy, musician, policeman, celebrity, movie agent, and businesswoman grapple with the struggle to truly live rather than merely survive. Their lives intertwine in intricate ways, as they confront devastating choices, experience powerful emotions, and endure lasting tragedies, even long after one of them murders another.
This book was beautiful and tragic. It’s a very short read. Pocket-sized and 104 pages, you can read it in under an hour before your coffee gets cold. But it hits you. Multiple lives connected by this neon hair-tie, all of whom are living a tragic life of some sort. There are horrors and tragedies in the world, and unfortunately for some, it’s an everyday occurrence. This book is beautifully written and many quotes that I think I will keep with me. It’s a heavy read and I can see how it may not be for some, but I do recommend it, if you want to feel something. Do be sure to read the trigger warnings before you start.
Thank you Love Books Tours and Sneha for the opportunity to read this one early!
First thing, the cover is great. My attention was grabbed immediately upon seeing it. A very quick but interesting read. Overall, I enjoyed the story. It's a bit sad, but that's life. I think it was written well and you felt the emotions of the characters.
I'd like to thank the publisher, the Author and Netgalley for allowing me to give my review of this.
Book : Magic in Errors Author : Sneha Babu Rating : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Format : E Book
Six people , Six lives and one stunner of a read. This book I would firstly like to mention brought me out of an ongoing and super annoying reading slump. This one is a superbly interesting read.
It has two parallel plots one is about a slum dweller named Raahil and his friend Amina. The second plot talks about a celebrity named Evelyn Charles and the mystery related to her untimely death under suspicious circumstances. It also mentions a character named Lyla and her chemistry with Evelyn. I grew extremely fond of Ayaana , who is portrayed as an extremely level headed and sympathetic character, I found her relatable in the way that she never used to like the stories to end .
Evelyn's death is being investigated by Aanjany Iyer who is in some way related to her , that I Won't reveal here since I don't wanna give away any spoilers.The book transverses across a timeline, all the characters and their stories are magnificiently interwoven in a very intrinsic manner. This novella is a really impactful work.This goes without saying that all the plot twists and the story itself kept me glued.
The intersection of the two plots is even more interesting making this book worth reading.I felt an instant connection with the characters, which is new for me as far as a novella is concerned since the time spent with the characters is quite less but this one for sure overcame that and made me feel for the characters in the same way as a bulky read does.This is a really great work by Sneha Babu, it surely deserves all the appreciation there is to offer and is worthy of your time.I would love to read her work for times to come.Before I forget to mention it the cover is very beautiful and bewitching.There are certain phrases I loved in this one,I would love to share them with you :
• That which is unreal, does not exist. That which is real, does not cease to exist. • They keep writing love letters on the sand for the sea to steal them away. • There is magic in errors, darling. • Gravity of pain is powerful enough to overthrow love and so,loss sits on the throne, wearing a crown of thorns. • Someone, somewhere, is praying for us, without us knowing. How beautiful is that?
It's an action-packed thriller with twists at every turn. This book brings together multiple points of view around a central focus object that sets up a very satisfying conclusion. This captivating story delves into social hierarchies, evoking empathy and support for the characters. A well-paced storyline with vivid imagery and engaging prose makes this a novella that is worth your time. It will engross you in a mystery and keep you on the edge of your seat.
The story starts with the death/murder of Evelyn Charles and Detective Anginue Ire breaking down in the hospital room when he learns her prognosis. Then we meet Rahal he is a street kid who sells stickers off the train depot‘s to make money and it’s money that he brings to his boss and he gets a commission from. He has never going to school and got an education but Rohall is a smart boy with many thoughts on God life in love and when he meets Ayanna it’s because he sees her drop a Wallet and when he picks it up he sees amounts of money he has never seen before he also thought Ayana was a guy but when he turns around in his face the face with her not only does he realize she is a girl but she smiles at him and wants to know all about him not to mention she wants to buy all of his stickers this is when he finds a neon hair tie and wraps in around his stickers so she can carry them away. Ayana is a famous singer in India and is even recognized by the India music Association but this doesn’t stop her depression and even though her friends are throwing her a party at a local dance club she doesn’t feel like going but she throws her hair up in a ponytail puts on her phony face and attends. This is where she meets Layla Layla is drunk and throwing up in the bathroom when Ayana grabs a neon hair tie and gives it to her to keep her hair back while being sick Ayana ask if there’s anything she can do and I’ll bowl Layla says no because she’s just brokenhearted and drunk they part ways. We will soon learn who broke Leila‘s heart and how the neon hair clip got to be in the mouth of a deceased person. This is a great story about how we in big and little ways touch in affect others lives even when we’re not aware of it we can influence end or change the path of others I thought this was a beautiful story a sad story a tragic story but one with hope and I thoroughly enjoyed it a definite five star read! I’m so glad I decided to get this book it is a profound tale and one I highly recommend. I want to thank net galley and the author for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
This novella offers a short, fast-paced read that you’ll have difficulty putting down. If it weren’t for other responsibilities, I’d have definitely read it in one sitting.
Don’t let the size of this one fool you. This small book packs a big punch. Just look at the list of content warnings below if you don’t believe me. Wandering through six people’s lives, like a dark game of six degrees of separation, we follow a neon-colored hair tye on a dangerous path.
The gorgeous, but haunting cover contains a devastating character study on how interconnected we all are and don’t realize it. It really makes you think about how small the world really is, and how each decision we make – however seemingly small – can have a huge impact. An interesting thing to think about, but don’t think about it too hard or it can be paralyzing.
I enjoyed meeting each character and following them. It was delightful each time we figured out how they fit into the story, like a puzzle piece clicking into place. At times, the timeline got a little confusing. The whole story happened mostly over a week period, I think. But it switched back and forth to before and after the opening scene. I enjoy jumping timelines and points of view, which some people do not. But this time it did get a little confusing.
My biggest complaint was that the story was so short. I always want more, I’m greedy like that. Very rarely – except for those massive fantasy books or similar – do I not want more from a book. So novellas are always a little sad for me. But I will say, that even in the short space, the author managed to flesh the characters out rather well. Many times in short stories or novellas this isn’t done well, but I felt I knew the cast of characters quite well at the end.
I will absolutely keep an eye out for more books by this author. She has a unique voice and clearly has some great things to say.
Content Warnings: Depression, Grief, Sexual Assault, Violence, Murder, Child Abuse, Child Labor, Drug and Alcohol Abuse, Overdose, Homophobia, Gang Activity, Infidelity, Crooked Cops, and More.
From the very first page, 'Magic in Errors' gripped me in a way few stories have. It’s a dazzling tapestry woven with both beauty and tragedy, and Sneha Babu's debut showcases the immense power stories can have, especially when packed in less than 100 pages.
It's astounding how a simple neon-colored hair tie can set off a cascade of events, touching lives and interweaving destinies. Through six vastly different lives - from a slum boy to a businesswoman - the narrative dances around the profound question: What does it mean to truly live? Each character is painted with such depth, grappling with heart-wrenching choices and enduring powerful emotions.
This isn't your typical cozy mystery or thriller. It transcends genres, demanding introspection from its readers. It had me pondering on the interconnectedness of lives, the ripple effects of our actions, and the heartbreak and beauty the universe throws our way.
'Magic in Errors' resonates long after the final page, making me re-evaluate the seemingly mundane objects and encounters in our lives. How many stories are intertwined with our own? How many lives do we unknowingly touch every day? An absolutely brilliant read, it's a testament to the magic of storytelling. Dive in and let yourself be captivated.
Huge thank you to @snehababu.author and @netgalley for my ARC!!
Book review - Sneha Babu - Magic In Errors 5 ⭐️
When I first saw this book on netgalley I liked the look of the cover and the description sounded cool. When I saw how short the book was it put me off. I was telling my friend about it and how I wasn't sure if I should give it a chance or not(I'm not usually keen on short books). As I read the synopsis to her I decided I really did want to read it.
I am so glad I did! Short it may be but this does not make it any less powerful. In fact, given its length it is quite incredible how much it covers and how deeply it makes you think.
I don't want to give too much away so just a quick about the book. A neon coloured hair tie passes through the hands of 6 completely different people. How do they all connect and how does one of them end up dead? The author did amazing at the characterization of each and every person. It really felt like you knew them.
It's a sad and tragic story...however, it's also a deeply moving story on how much even small interactions with strangers can make a difference and how we are all connected.
Definitely thought provoking and worth a read. I am looking forward to reading future books from this author 😊
This is a story infused in sadness, missed opportunities and bleak futures, set against a raw and realistic backdrop of an inner city India I don't know much about. Nevertheless, the writing brings it alive and I found this fascinating. The story touches on many important topics, such as being a member of the LGBTQ+ community in an Asian country, poverty and corruption in the police and it does so in a succinct and understated manner. I wouldn't say that this is an easy read, due to the heavy topics and the story circling around a death, but the writing flows well. The story is written in third person from several points of view and the style is very matter of fact. As such, although this is a bleak story, it's not meant to be a tear jerker and I loved how there are some very uplifting moments, especially towards the end. Thank you so much Sneha Babu for allowing me the opportunity of reading this ARC and best of luck with future endeavours.
Firstly that front cover is 🔥🔥🔥, I read this on eBook and am definitely going to have to get a copy from amazon just for that cover.
Now for inside the cover, and this book is absolutely fantastic It is well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters. This book was absolutely gripping and had me hooked right from the very first sentence up until and beyond the last sentence. Have you ever read a book that after you finished was so mind blowing that you sat just holding the book/kindle and collected your thoughts, but then realised you couldn't collect them - that was this book.
This book was so thought provoking and made me think and question whilst I was reading and long after I had finished. This is not a book that you will read and then forget about, this book will stay with me for a very long time.
I went in blind and it blew me away so I want everyone else to have the same experience so all I will say is please do yourself a favour and read this book
This was such an interesting read overall. It is a story about 6 different people living in various places and their different stories. There are a few main characters in this story: Aanjaney, Raahil, Evelyn, Ayaana, and Layla to name a few. I loved the writing of the author. The story is very engaging overall. I found myself wanting to read more and find out what happened to them all including Evelyn. I also loved the wisdom that the author put into the book in little doses. The wisdom makes you think as you read.
I also loved the beginning of the book and the 6 little monkey poem, this is a very popular poem with kids including my own and almost all parents know it. I think it’s somehow fitting though for this book. The debut book from this author is worth the read y’all!
Magic in Errors was a conundrum I couldn't quite figure out. The description of the novella is not quite what the book turned out to be. I feel as though the author could not stick to a particular style or genre. There are multiple POVs that felt lacking, but the concept of following the hair tie was brilliant. Magic in Errors needs more story to it - at 100 pages, it's far too brief for the topics tackled. The six people the reader follows face challenge after challenge, and I don't believe the brevity of the novella sufficiently gives those challenges the attention they deserve. There's a lot of potential with this novella, and I mostly enjoyed it, but in my honest opinion, it definitely needs expansion.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publishers and author for a chance to read this ARC for an honest review.
I love novellas. Sometimes between or while reading longer books, I need something I can get into and end in an evening and this book was great for that very thing!
The story is a multiple points of view, disparate situations/struggles, beautiful tale all tied together with a common intersection. Although short, it packs in quite a lot of reflection and questions that keep the reader engaged well after finishing.
I found myself wanting more, which is a very good thing for an author of a short story or novella.
The cover grabbed my attention and drew me in immediately.
A gripping thriller with a twist on every page. The author has managed to take up multiple point of views and blend it all arount a central focus object that sets up a brilliant payoff at the end. A certified page turner, the story explores the social strata and its imbalance in a way that makes you feel for the characters and root for them. A well-paced storyline with vivid imagery and an engaging prose,This is a novella with a lot of heart and soul, it is a must read for anyone looking to engross themselves in mystery and stay at the edge of their seat till the end.
I very much liked it. I really liked how all their lives intertwined without most of them even knowing it. You can see how the hair tie gets passed around and is a quick, visible link between some of the characters. It was a great quick read that had some mystery and in-depth thoughts into life and love. Many of these characters are in such different stages and classes of life. Experiencing hard ships and just trying to find their way. It all came together so nicely. It’s a cute, tiny pocket book that holds a story much deeper than you expect.
This is such an unusual book. The cover is captivating and I love the premise of the story. It’s a quick read, I devoured it in one sitting, but that doesn’t mean it’s disposable. Far, far from it. Every part of this tale is meaningful and thought provoking. I love a story that really makes me think and this one certainly does that. Read this book and set aside some time to think about the way the universe moves and as humans, how we differ and yet in many ways we are the same. The characters and settings are diverse and their stories are deep. I loved it.
This book was an interesting read - we follow characters throughout the book as we try to uncover how Evelyn Charles died, and who she really was. This thriller contains multiple POVs ultimately all tied together by a hairband.
I enjoyed Sneha Babu’s writing style, her ability to give each character their own personality, and her ability to write difficult topics well. You can tell she’s a new author, but with time I think she’ll go on to produce 5 star books.
Despite this being her first book, Sneha Babu has done a phenomenal job. I enjoyed the storyline, characterization and the style of her writing. Would 100% recommend to anyone looking for a short weekend read, or for someone trying to get back into reading. I enjoyed the overarching idea of how we are all connected in this disconnected world and that our actions matter. One can't help notice the glimpses of the author's vulnerability through her genuine and honest writing.
My honest thoughts I enjoyed reading this story fast paced story.
I liked the build on the characters and their individual personalities in the storyline, also the discribtions of the surroundings, this is so I can easily pucture where we were.
The way the author has written it allows it to flow nicely as well as grip me from the first sentence, all the way to the end..
I did actualy sit there for a few moments after finishing and just take it all in lol.
I don't know what I was expecting when I decided to review this book, but I'm really glad I did. What does a lone neon hair tie say to you? We visit different POV as we travel along with a lone neon hair tie, seeing the psychological and emotional side it has with people. Six total strangers, each with their own struggles and different from each other or are they. I did find this a quick read but one I would recommend
This is a small book and I loved reading it based on its size. The book is about as tall as a iPhone and it felt special to read a book this is not the normal size. What I loved most about the book was the characters. I don’t want to give away spoilers so I’ll just say this author has a way of writing that I loved. It is a book that will stay with me for awhile after reading it. I encourage you to try out this book.
𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄💭: It begins with a neon-colored hair tie. Keep reading, don't stop, the story comes together in the end. You’ll read about the lives of the characters in the book. This book is beautifully written. My favorite part is reading the quotes. It is a short book, but please know this is a dark and heavy read. It is intended for mature readers.
𝔗𝔯𝔦𝔤𝔤𝔢𝔯 𝔚𝔞𝔯𝔫𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔰: Themes of depression, grief, sexual assault, and violence.
This is a thought provoking novel. It is a quick read, and a lot happens to these characters over the course of a few days as we follow the hair tie and there is an unexpected twist at the end. I read this all in one go and was a bit sad when it ended. My question would be whether there are going to be additional books focussing on specific characters so that we can get to know them more?
This was such a good quick fast paced read. I loved getting to know the characters and their personalities!!! The author did a great job of everything flowing together and I was hooked from the first page and it was so fast I had to sit and take it all in !!! I need more !!!! Also thank you for my gifted copy.
"Love just is. It is born with us. Just like the stars and oceans and forests, you do not need to justify your existence. You are magic. Be magic.”
What a beautifully tragic story. I love the way the story flowed and intertwined by the use of a single hair tie. So well put together. It really is such an easy read, I got through it in one sitting not even realising!
Can I be honest? The writing was horrible. I couldn't follow along and immediately became disinterested in this short story. The writing style and flow could use some work.
First off how amazing this cover and it is the cutest little book! This was such a quick and good read! Parts of this book are hard to read with suicide and murder. A unanimous object a tie die hair tie is passed between multiple people and will come to a devastating end. I really enjoyed and highly recommend!
This book is about lives that are intertwined and how the actions of one or two of the characters impact all of the others. I felt sympathetic for all of them for their circumstances, but not so much their actions. I think out of all of the characters that this book focuses on, only Aayana seems to have the kindest heart as is evident when she takes Raahil under her wing. Aajaney also does what he does for his sister and Raahil in the end. This book was an interesting read, but not what I expected. It was a decent read, but too full of darkness for my taste. Lots of trigger warnings with this one.