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The Helpline
Samir is suicidal. Rachael works for a suicide helpline. Fate connects them through a phone call. And so begins Samir’s story of love, longing, errors, regret and a girl who changed his life. As his story reaches its conclusion, Rachael will know the true reason behind his suicidal tendencies. But this suicide helpline is not any ordinary service. There is more to the mysterious and yet so convincing voice of Rachael. As this new mystery begins to unfold, Samir is going to discover three things:
What is The Helpline?
Who is Rachael?
What is Samir’s own identity?
Every year, several teenagers in India attempt suicide because of failing relationships, dwindling careers, parental pressure or the competitive world. This story is about one such teenager, his early problems and the hurdles to cope with them. This story is about finding hope in the struggle. This story is about fighting for what you believe in and discovering your true identity. This is not a story about falling in love. This is a story of rising from a failed love story.
Note: "Proceedings of Rs. 5 per book will be used for child welfare through The Rotary Foundation"
What is The Helpline?
Who is Rachael?
What is Samir’s own identity?
Every year, several teenagers in India attempt suicide because of failing relationships, dwindling careers, parental pressure or the competitive world. This story is about one such teenager, his early problems and the hurdles to cope with them. This story is about finding hope in the struggle. This story is about fighting for what you believe in and discovering your true identity. This is not a story about falling in love. This is a story of rising from a failed love story.
Note: "Proceedings of Rs. 5 per book will be used for child welfare through The Rotary Foundation"
252 pages, Paperback
First published March 29, 2014
3 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 19, 2014
Helpline by Uday Mane, has got many controversial reviews. Some love it and some hate it. I resonate with it. On one hand the reader in me wants to stay glued to the story and on the other hand, the editor in me (don't snicker !) wants to nitpick all the editorial Harakiri the author and editor of this book has committed. But since the editor in me often takes a nap when I am writing, I guess I will sing my lullaby and put it to sleep again.
Suicide is a very controversial subject. The sudden demise of Robbie Williams made me enter into some controversial, heated discussion with some of my loved ones. Everyone knows I have no sympathy for those who even think of committing suicide. God gave you one life as a gift and you don't have any right to squander it. And phuleeze, if you plan to still do it - donate your organs before the act. The world needs all the spare parts!
Ok. That is not a review, but ranting and it feels good.
Coming to Helpline by Uday Mane - this is not just the story of Samir but also Riya and Siddharth. The first thing that caught by attention regarding this book is the relationship between the bro and the sis. I resonated with Riya for issues personal to me. A young girl, motherless, becoming a sis-mom for her brother, who is diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
The little girl Riya grows up fast enough to become the kind and gentle person she turns out to be. As a writer, Uday Mane has not held back at all. Every relationship is nurtured. Whether the friend ambitious Rajesh, coming out of his village, using any means. (Read it as pain in the ****) or a young lad Samir, struggling with his engineering classes. So many students will recognize the trauma of Samir. While parents are not wrong in thinking that they know the best for their kids, sometimes we tend to cloud our judgement in accordance with our own ambition and our failure.
The small-small stories of Riya and Samir are very cute. Especially about the Barbie and Ken. Riya is too forgiving - I would have court marshalled that guy :P
Thankfully Uday Mane shows the silver lining in every dark cloud and this book does not, in any line, justify the act. The question does arise why is the protag so weak? He had everything good going on his life a and a great upbringing and family background. So does love mean so much to him that he is contemplating suicide?
I don't think so. IT WAS NOT THE LOSS OF A LOVE THAT MAKES HIM WANT TO COMMIT SUICIDE now was it? If this is considered a spoiler and the author thinks so, I will remove it - but it was more than that. It was the survivor's guilt. It was the guilt that he was the cause of her going away. Maybe you and I, the strong ones, won't react like that. But a 20 year old? They can.
If you want to pick you this book based on a love story... then don't. This book is not a love story. In the author's words, " Love is a companion not a company". It is a hit against our Indian education system. It is a hit against our Indian parenting system and above all it is a message to all those who are in a dark zone--- that your life is meant for something. All you have to do is look for it. Kudos to the author for that.
Now for the weak points. This book will be a dart game party for the editors, who are also reviewers, out there. I cannot stress enough to all new authors and self published authors out there - you need an editor - a professional one. Not friends and relatives who love you. Someone who will insult you and make you want to throw the MS away. I sincerely hope you find one Uday Mane, for you have all the qualities of becoming a bestselling author.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, I would. At the cost of being called partial, not a good reviewer, too soft, not looking after the interest of the readers and the whispers of paid review .. I do recommend this book.
Reasons:
1. The book has some hard truths about our society.
2. The characters felt real and touches your heart.
3. The stories and the anecdotes of Samir and Riya are too good.
4. The ending had to be read to be believed.
5. Sometimes even with very good English - writers write crap stories and get 5 stars don't they? So if editing is one facet of reviews, then the other side should be the story itself. Here I recommend the story.
Check the full review at
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2014/10/h...
Suicide is a very controversial subject. The sudden demise of Robbie Williams made me enter into some controversial, heated discussion with some of my loved ones. Everyone knows I have no sympathy for those who even think of committing suicide. God gave you one life as a gift and you don't have any right to squander it. And phuleeze, if you plan to still do it - donate your organs before the act. The world needs all the spare parts!
Ok. That is not a review, but ranting and it feels good.
Coming to Helpline by Uday Mane - this is not just the story of Samir but also Riya and Siddharth. The first thing that caught by attention regarding this book is the relationship between the bro and the sis. I resonated with Riya for issues personal to me. A young girl, motherless, becoming a sis-mom for her brother, who is diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
The little girl Riya grows up fast enough to become the kind and gentle person she turns out to be. As a writer, Uday Mane has not held back at all. Every relationship is nurtured. Whether the friend ambitious Rajesh, coming out of his village, using any means. (Read it as pain in the ****) or a young lad Samir, struggling with his engineering classes. So many students will recognize the trauma of Samir. While parents are not wrong in thinking that they know the best for their kids, sometimes we tend to cloud our judgement in accordance with our own ambition and our failure.
The small-small stories of Riya and Samir are very cute. Especially about the Barbie and Ken. Riya is too forgiving - I would have court marshalled that guy :P
Thankfully Uday Mane shows the silver lining in every dark cloud and this book does not, in any line, justify the act. The question does arise why is the protag so weak? He had everything good going on his life a and a great upbringing and family background. So does love mean so much to him that he is contemplating suicide?
I don't think so. IT WAS NOT THE LOSS OF A LOVE THAT MAKES HIM WANT TO COMMIT SUICIDE now was it? If this is considered a spoiler and the author thinks so, I will remove it - but it was more than that. It was the survivor's guilt. It was the guilt that he was the cause of her going away. Maybe you and I, the strong ones, won't react like that. But a 20 year old? They can.
If you want to pick you this book based on a love story... then don't. This book is not a love story. In the author's words, " Love is a companion not a company". It is a hit against our Indian education system. It is a hit against our Indian parenting system and above all it is a message to all those who are in a dark zone--- that your life is meant for something. All you have to do is look for it. Kudos to the author for that.
Now for the weak points. This book will be a dart game party for the editors, who are also reviewers, out there. I cannot stress enough to all new authors and self published authors out there - you need an editor - a professional one. Not friends and relatives who love you. Someone who will insult you and make you want to throw the MS away. I sincerely hope you find one Uday Mane, for you have all the qualities of becoming a bestselling author.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, I would. At the cost of being called partial, not a good reviewer, too soft, not looking after the interest of the readers and the whispers of paid review .. I do recommend this book.
Reasons:
1. The book has some hard truths about our society.
2. The characters felt real and touches your heart.
3. The stories and the anecdotes of Samir and Riya are too good.
4. The ending had to be read to be believed.
5. Sometimes even with very good English - writers write crap stories and get 5 stars don't they? So if editing is one facet of reviews, then the other side should be the story itself. Here I recommend the story.
Check the full review at
http://www.rubinaramesh.com/2014/10/h...
August 3, 2014
http://pebbleinthestillwaters.blogspo...
Book Review: The Helpline by Uday Mane: Failure Is A Part Of Life: Embrace It
You read the solo paragraph on page 45 and you will get a strong touch of Ayn Rand in this book The Helpline written by Uday Mane But rest of the book has original touch of writing, conceptualization and story telling. There is strong emphasis on lead characters and story in this book.
The Helpline by Uday Mane, published by Leadstart, is a story about Samir who has met with a serious tragedy of his life and has reached a desperate and diffused stage of his life where he always thinks of taking his life. Because of the tragedy in his life that took away everything that he had in his life, the love of his life, he keeps thinking himself as the cause of that tragedy and hence has driven himself towards only one destination - Suicide. The book has a philosophical touch somewhere when Samir talks with Riya, interacts with his Nana and remembers him post his death, and when Samir meets Siddhartha at the later stage of his life.
The story of The Helpline by Uday Mane has a big landscape frame where you can find various interesting and touching paintings on that landscape in various forms - some bringing smile on your face, some bringing tears in your eyes and at points taking you deep dive inside your heart for an introspection. The story is touching and so is the way things have been expressed by means of words. For instance read the following:
We looked at each other for a moment. Everybody in the room had left. A part of me wanted to know so much about her, and a part of me did not know where to begin.
The story has a depth and gravity. Strong characterization makes major characters like Nana, Siddharth, Riya, and Samir have been given their own space that is well specified and driven perfectly. Story takes us to see growing Samir under the love of his Nana (Grandfather) and learning all good basic things of life from him as his father is a quite busy politician and has almost no time for his family to spare. While spending his life with his Nana, Samir meets Riya for the first time and there is some hidden relationship established between the two - a relationship of love and hatred, a relationship of enviousness, a relationship of spirituality. Riya's brother Siddharth is totally handicapped and hence requires all of Riya's attention to sustain in life and Riya happily does that.
It takes a long time for Samir to understand the real feeling in his heart for Riya and by the time he comes to know about it, God had something else scribbled in his notebook to happen in due course of time. Overall The Helpline by Uday Mane is quite interesting, heart touching, engrossing and has a serious story line.
Book Review: The Helpline by Uday Mane: Failure Is A Part Of Life: Embrace It
You read the solo paragraph on page 45 and you will get a strong touch of Ayn Rand in this book The Helpline written by Uday Mane But rest of the book has original touch of writing, conceptualization and story telling. There is strong emphasis on lead characters and story in this book.
The Helpline by Uday Mane, published by Leadstart, is a story about Samir who has met with a serious tragedy of his life and has reached a desperate and diffused stage of his life where he always thinks of taking his life. Because of the tragedy in his life that took away everything that he had in his life, the love of his life, he keeps thinking himself as the cause of that tragedy and hence has driven himself towards only one destination - Suicide. The book has a philosophical touch somewhere when Samir talks with Riya, interacts with his Nana and remembers him post his death, and when Samir meets Siddhartha at the later stage of his life.
The story of The Helpline by Uday Mane has a big landscape frame where you can find various interesting and touching paintings on that landscape in various forms - some bringing smile on your face, some bringing tears in your eyes and at points taking you deep dive inside your heart for an introspection. The story is touching and so is the way things have been expressed by means of words. For instance read the following:
We looked at each other for a moment. Everybody in the room had left. A part of me wanted to know so much about her, and a part of me did not know where to begin.
The story has a depth and gravity. Strong characterization makes major characters like Nana, Siddharth, Riya, and Samir have been given their own space that is well specified and driven perfectly. Story takes us to see growing Samir under the love of his Nana (Grandfather) and learning all good basic things of life from him as his father is a quite busy politician and has almost no time for his family to spare. While spending his life with his Nana, Samir meets Riya for the first time and there is some hidden relationship established between the two - a relationship of love and hatred, a relationship of enviousness, a relationship of spirituality. Riya's brother Siddharth is totally handicapped and hence requires all of Riya's attention to sustain in life and Riya happily does that.
It takes a long time for Samir to understand the real feeling in his heart for Riya and by the time he comes to know about it, God had something else scribbled in his notebook to happen in due course of time. Overall The Helpline by Uday Mane is quite interesting, heart touching, engrossing and has a serious story line.
July 13, 2014
WHAT I FELT ABOUT THE BOOK
HIGHS
Story-line – Interesting, intriguing and one you can relate to. This is not just the story of Samir the protagonist, who shows suicidal tendency on account of his inability to cope up with a guilt but is also the story of a sister who’s world revolves around her one and only brother a victim of Down’s Syndrome. The Helpline also introduces us to a true friend in the form of Neha. Her worries, her concern for the protagonist are something that endears her to the readers.
But is there anything as failed love here? Well I wouldn’t use the expression ‘failed love’ for the simple reason that the choice of parting ways was a conscious decision made by the protagonist himself. Instead I would say this is a story of rising from the trauma of a disaster that gave rise to guilt.
The suspense surrounding the reason for Samir’s depression, his suicidal tendency, Rachael and her helpline are all maintained well till the very end. No hints, no clues are dropped anywhere in between. And this is exactly what engages the reader.
Language – Simple and lucid. The narrative flows freely.
Characters - The characters are well etched with all their virtues as well as flaws. Each character contributes to the flow of the story.
Message – The story conveys a strong message to both parents and those suffering from depression/ suicidal tendency. 1) For parents – Don’t force your dreams on your child. It can boomerang. 2) For those suffering from depression/ suicidal tendency – Suicide is not the only way out of your problems. We dream. Some dreams come true, others fail. Accept it and move on. When you are low speak to a dear one. It helps.
LOWS
The beginning few pages seemed to drag, but then from the 4th Chapter onward the story gained momentum keeping me hooked till the end. The editing is wanting in a few places.
MY RECOMMENDATION
Looking for a light read. Then, this is definitely one you can place your hands on. The story touched my heart.
SOME QUOTES, SOME THOUGHTS WORTH SHARING
"A smile is motivation enough to keep us going.”
“Failure is a part of life. Don’t be afraid of it. Embrace it. Face it. Don’t be ashamed of it. You must learn to overcome your fears and build up on your strengths. ………..”
“Seldom do people get multiple choices.”
“Relation is a thin thread held by two souls at each end. It takes just a scissor of misunderstanding to cut this thread.You may be very compatible for each other, but if you cannot compromise, then it is only a matter of time that things start falling apart……”
HIGHS
Story-line – Interesting, intriguing and one you can relate to. This is not just the story of Samir the protagonist, who shows suicidal tendency on account of his inability to cope up with a guilt but is also the story of a sister who’s world revolves around her one and only brother a victim of Down’s Syndrome. The Helpline also introduces us to a true friend in the form of Neha. Her worries, her concern for the protagonist are something that endears her to the readers.
But is there anything as failed love here? Well I wouldn’t use the expression ‘failed love’ for the simple reason that the choice of parting ways was a conscious decision made by the protagonist himself. Instead I would say this is a story of rising from the trauma of a disaster that gave rise to guilt.
The suspense surrounding the reason for Samir’s depression, his suicidal tendency, Rachael and her helpline are all maintained well till the very end. No hints, no clues are dropped anywhere in between. And this is exactly what engages the reader.
Language – Simple and lucid. The narrative flows freely.
Characters - The characters are well etched with all their virtues as well as flaws. Each character contributes to the flow of the story.
Message – The story conveys a strong message to both parents and those suffering from depression/ suicidal tendency. 1) For parents – Don’t force your dreams on your child. It can boomerang. 2) For those suffering from depression/ suicidal tendency – Suicide is not the only way out of your problems. We dream. Some dreams come true, others fail. Accept it and move on. When you are low speak to a dear one. It helps.
LOWS
The beginning few pages seemed to drag, but then from the 4th Chapter onward the story gained momentum keeping me hooked till the end. The editing is wanting in a few places.
MY RECOMMENDATION
Looking for a light read. Then, this is definitely one you can place your hands on. The story touched my heart.
SOME QUOTES, SOME THOUGHTS WORTH SHARING
"A smile is motivation enough to keep us going.”
“Failure is a part of life. Don’t be afraid of it. Embrace it. Face it. Don’t be ashamed of it. You must learn to overcome your fears and build up on your strengths. ………..”
“Seldom do people get multiple choices.”
“Relation is a thin thread held by two souls at each end. It takes just a scissor of misunderstanding to cut this thread.You may be very compatible for each other, but if you cannot compromise, then it is only a matter of time that things start falling apart……”
February 17, 2017
Our first protagonist is Samir, a typical youth of this generation who is struggling with his life. He feels lost and blames himself for the tragedies in his life. Out of desperation, he calls The Helpline for the suicidal and connects with our second protagonist, Rachel. As he narrates the story of his life to this stranger over the phone, and more importantly a stranger who seems to understand him, the story unfolds… What is the Helpline? Who is Rachel? And most importantly, does Samir manage to get out of his situation or does he finally succumb to his suicidal impulses.
Suicide is a common element of our lives. Each day we read about or hear about suicides on the telly. Recently the number of suicides among the youth has gone up – be it as a result of ragging or failed relationship or academic pressure… There are people who would say that suicide is a coward’s way out, but I do not agree. It takes guts and desperation to go against human’s basic instinct of self preservation. So, I was attracted to this book in the first place because it handles this topic.
The character of Samir is such that everyone will be able to identify with some parts of him. He is the most well fleshed out character in the story and we get to know him slowly and steadily as he narrates is his life’s story. Then there is Rachel… Well, I will not say much about her here in the review, other than the fact that she intrigued me from the very beginning. There are several other characters who play some role in Samir’s story. Riya and her brother Siddhartha play a significant role. The plot discusses various issues out of the pages of our lives – from depression to suicidal impulses to the various forms of pressures that a person has to endure in our society. The author takes us on Samir’s journey of self discovery. Both the plot and the characters showed huge potential that the debut author has delivered them both quite well. Uday Mane uses simple language that is easy to get into. The story is well narrated and the pace is set just right.
Overall, this book presented for an exciting read that I did enjoy a lot. It is really nice to realize that not all young authors of today’s generation is going into the well practiced commercial romance stuff and that some do stand out with their novels with some serious content.
http://www.b00kr3vi3ws.in/TheHelpline
Suicide is a common element of our lives. Each day we read about or hear about suicides on the telly. Recently the number of suicides among the youth has gone up – be it as a result of ragging or failed relationship or academic pressure… There are people who would say that suicide is a coward’s way out, but I do not agree. It takes guts and desperation to go against human’s basic instinct of self preservation. So, I was attracted to this book in the first place because it handles this topic.
The character of Samir is such that everyone will be able to identify with some parts of him. He is the most well fleshed out character in the story and we get to know him slowly and steadily as he narrates is his life’s story. Then there is Rachel… Well, I will not say much about her here in the review, other than the fact that she intrigued me from the very beginning. There are several other characters who play some role in Samir’s story. Riya and her brother Siddhartha play a significant role. The plot discusses various issues out of the pages of our lives – from depression to suicidal impulses to the various forms of pressures that a person has to endure in our society. The author takes us on Samir’s journey of self discovery. Both the plot and the characters showed huge potential that the debut author has delivered them both quite well. Uday Mane uses simple language that is easy to get into. The story is well narrated and the pace is set just right.
Overall, this book presented for an exciting read that I did enjoy a lot. It is really nice to realize that not all young authors of today’s generation is going into the well practiced commercial romance stuff and that some do stand out with their novels with some serious content.
http://www.b00kr3vi3ws.in/TheHelpline
June 14, 2015
Reading Uday Mane's 'The Helpline' is like going to your favourite restaurant and being undone by the signature dish. It is a competent book by a new author, it builds strong characters and settings, only to throw it away with cliches in the reason behind his suicidal tendencies.
Samir is suicidal. Rachel works for a suicide helpline. Fate connects them through a phone call. And so begins Samir's story of love, longing, errors, regret and a girl who changed his life. As his story reaches its conclusion, Rachael will know the true reason behind his suicidal tendencies. But this suicide helpline is not any ordinary service. There is more to the mysterious and ye so convincing voice of Rachael. As this new mystery unfolds, Samir will know the answers to most important questions of his life.
The author has noble intentions - He takes research on suicide and dealing with it with utmost seriousness evident from the detailing we get in the initial pages about Samir's condition. The pangs of guilt he experience every now and then, his inner demons which crop up at regular intervals and his unguarded ability to reflect suicidal tendency in the most rare circumstances - all this will move your insides and make you relate to his heartbreak with a warm feeling. I particularly liked Samir relationship with the cafe owner and the back story is heart wrenching.
Problem is, these competent portions are bogged down by over exacting detailing of his dates at a cafe and other famous places in Mumbai never allowing the readers to go beyond the obvious. As you move forward in the book, the mystery is clearly founded way before the climax which is a terrible disappointment. I was also undone that those initial well written portions about Samir's depression ultimately draws down from a heart break and takes the usual, safe route of every other book you will find in market these days. At 230 odd pages, the book is long and will drain you out barring the sincere emotions behind penning it down.
I am going with generous 3/5 for Uday Mane's 'The Helpline'. Chances are you will love the first 50 odd pages, only to be undone by the safe zone author takes to complete this story. In my opinion, an opportunity wasted but i do hope to read more from the author in future.
Samir is suicidal. Rachel works for a suicide helpline. Fate connects them through a phone call. And so begins Samir's story of love, longing, errors, regret and a girl who changed his life. As his story reaches its conclusion, Rachael will know the true reason behind his suicidal tendencies. But this suicide helpline is not any ordinary service. There is more to the mysterious and ye so convincing voice of Rachael. As this new mystery unfolds, Samir will know the answers to most important questions of his life.
The author has noble intentions - He takes research on suicide and dealing with it with utmost seriousness evident from the detailing we get in the initial pages about Samir's condition. The pangs of guilt he experience every now and then, his inner demons which crop up at regular intervals and his unguarded ability to reflect suicidal tendency in the most rare circumstances - all this will move your insides and make you relate to his heartbreak with a warm feeling. I particularly liked Samir relationship with the cafe owner and the back story is heart wrenching.
Problem is, these competent portions are bogged down by over exacting detailing of his dates at a cafe and other famous places in Mumbai never allowing the readers to go beyond the obvious. As you move forward in the book, the mystery is clearly founded way before the climax which is a terrible disappointment. I was also undone that those initial well written portions about Samir's depression ultimately draws down from a heart break and takes the usual, safe route of every other book you will find in market these days. At 230 odd pages, the book is long and will drain you out barring the sincere emotions behind penning it down.
I am going with generous 3/5 for Uday Mane's 'The Helpline'. Chances are you will love the first 50 odd pages, only to be undone by the safe zone author takes to complete this story. In my opinion, an opportunity wasted but i do hope to read more from the author in future.
July 2, 2014
Here I am done reading this fabulous book, The Helpline, by debutant author Uday Mane. The Helpline characterizes Samir, Neha, Riya and Siddhartha. Samir the protagonist of the story comes from a rich family of a politician. He falls in love with Riya who loses her mother at an early age. Acknowledging her responsibilities very well, she takes care of her brother Siddhartha who suffers from Down’s syndrome.
Neha is the girl who encourages a depressed Samir to live and enjoy his life. But the incident occurred in his life, the guilt, the culpability and the thoughts of his past don’t let him get out of depression.
When Neha leaves for her honeymoon, she leaves a newspaper with the number of Crisis Helpline.
Sameer calls-up and a girl answers him. She introduces her as Rachael. Destiny connects Sameer and Rachael through The Helpline and this is how she enters the story. Samir narrates his miserable story to her.
This tale goes through interesting twists and turns. A reader will surely develop a quest to know about both – the reason behind Samir’s depression and Rachael’s identity. And this quest will make a reader go through the story till the end where reality is disclosed.
But who exactly is this girl Rachael? And, what is the wretched occurrence that depresses Samir so much? Want to know more, right? Grab your copies of The Helpline today and take pleasures of reading this incredible story!
Over-all: The cover page of the book is beautiful. It gives a reader some slight hints about the story. The title too is catchy. The cover as well as the title that put the first impression about the book are totally perfect! The writing style of the author is lovable. The narration of the story goes at an easy pace, making a reader grasp each and everything in the story.
No part of the story lies incomprehensible or boring and there are no mistakes in the book.
Categorizing The Helpline as a must read, I would like to rate the book with 4.5/5! Congratulation to Uday for his debut novel and best wishes to him for all his future projects! Hope he comes up with more such interesting novels!
Neha is the girl who encourages a depressed Samir to live and enjoy his life. But the incident occurred in his life, the guilt, the culpability and the thoughts of his past don’t let him get out of depression.
When Neha leaves for her honeymoon, she leaves a newspaper with the number of Crisis Helpline.
Sameer calls-up and a girl answers him. She introduces her as Rachael. Destiny connects Sameer and Rachael through The Helpline and this is how she enters the story. Samir narrates his miserable story to her.
This tale goes through interesting twists and turns. A reader will surely develop a quest to know about both – the reason behind Samir’s depression and Rachael’s identity. And this quest will make a reader go through the story till the end where reality is disclosed.
But who exactly is this girl Rachael? And, what is the wretched occurrence that depresses Samir so much? Want to know more, right? Grab your copies of The Helpline today and take pleasures of reading this incredible story!
Over-all: The cover page of the book is beautiful. It gives a reader some slight hints about the story. The title too is catchy. The cover as well as the title that put the first impression about the book are totally perfect! The writing style of the author is lovable. The narration of the story goes at an easy pace, making a reader grasp each and everything in the story.
No part of the story lies incomprehensible or boring and there are no mistakes in the book.
Categorizing The Helpline as a must read, I would like to rate the book with 4.5/5! Congratulation to Uday for his debut novel and best wishes to him for all his future projects! Hope he comes up with more such interesting novels!
July 7, 2014
The Helpline is a story of a 20 year old Samir who suffers from depression and harbours suicidal thoughts. His good friend, Neha tries to help him to come out of this state of hopelessness but the pain and death seemed more appealing to him, till he decides to call a suicide Helpline. Rachel takes his call at the Helpline and listens patiently and shows him the path that leads towards self discovery and realization. As Samir talks to Rachel, we get to know Samir’s story, his childhood, his love for Riya, his talent for writing stories and his guilt.
The story in The Helpline is a simple one which has a narrative that flows effortlessly and keeps you glued to the book. In fact the narrative is a bit descriptive but that makes the plots very vivid, the case in point, the early morning swimming at the lake scene or the activities of children in the Heartsprings, the good-will foundation for Handicapped children. And it helps you to understand the characters better and even empathize with them. The book has some spectacular moments. I loved the two short stories which showcases Samir’s flair and love for writing in the book. There are two climaxes , one leaves you totally stunned. I mean I didn’t see that coming at all and other one is simply heart-warming! I liked Rajesh’s character and the truths of life that he shared with Samir, especially about Indian parents. The message Samir gives to Riya through spines of the book (Spine Poetry) is fabulous too.
At a few places, I spotted some errors and perhaps the editing could have been a bit tighter. Despite that The Helpline is a book that you’d like to read it at one go, because once you pick it up you wouldn’t feel like keeping it down.
A very steady book and a sure page turner The Helpline is a very engrossing read.
More @ http://shilpaagarg.com/2014/07/helpli...
The story in The Helpline is a simple one which has a narrative that flows effortlessly and keeps you glued to the book. In fact the narrative is a bit descriptive but that makes the plots very vivid, the case in point, the early morning swimming at the lake scene or the activities of children in the Heartsprings, the good-will foundation for Handicapped children. And it helps you to understand the characters better and even empathize with them. The book has some spectacular moments. I loved the two short stories which showcases Samir’s flair and love for writing in the book. There are two climaxes , one leaves you totally stunned. I mean I didn’t see that coming at all and other one is simply heart-warming! I liked Rajesh’s character and the truths of life that he shared with Samir, especially about Indian parents. The message Samir gives to Riya through spines of the book (Spine Poetry) is fabulous too.
At a few places, I spotted some errors and perhaps the editing could have been a bit tighter. Despite that The Helpline is a book that you’d like to read it at one go, because once you pick it up you wouldn’t feel like keeping it down.
A very steady book and a sure page turner The Helpline is a very engrossing read.
More @ http://shilpaagarg.com/2014/07/helpli...
May 3, 2014
What comes to your mind when I say the word “Helpline”? Those clichéd responses by telemarketers or customer service executives asking you to be patient while they lie about resolving your problem? Or some exceptionally good executives who actually go out of their way to ensure that your issue is resolved? Well, Uday Mane’s The Helpline deals with nothing of the above mentioned situations. It deals with suicides. It is his debut book and I must say that the idea behind the book is quite interesting.
Getting on to the storyline, Samir & Rachael are the protagonists of the story. Rachael works for a suicide helpline and Samir is suicidal. Somehow fate connects both of them and Samir starts telling Rachael everything about his life. A girl has changed Samir’s life for worse and his love, longing, errors in judgment about her had led Samir to a stage where he wanted to end his life. Rachael understands his situations and tried to bring Samir out of this. Things progress or I should rather say, unfold. Samir gets to know about the mystery behind this helpline and more importantly, Rachael and it leads him to a journey of self-discovery.
Coming to the writing style of the book, Uday has done a fine job. He knows what he is writing about and he has managed to keep the intrigue intact in the story throughout. My only problem with the book was its lousy editing. It could have been much better seeing the fact that the plot and the characters had such a huge potential. Nevertheless, the book can be read once and also, I must mentioned that some proceeds from the sale of this book will go to charity. So, this must give you another reason to shell out some bucks for this one.
Getting on to the storyline, Samir & Rachael are the protagonists of the story. Rachael works for a suicide helpline and Samir is suicidal. Somehow fate connects both of them and Samir starts telling Rachael everything about his life. A girl has changed Samir’s life for worse and his love, longing, errors in judgment about her had led Samir to a stage where he wanted to end his life. Rachael understands his situations and tried to bring Samir out of this. Things progress or I should rather say, unfold. Samir gets to know about the mystery behind this helpline and more importantly, Rachael and it leads him to a journey of self-discovery.
Coming to the writing style of the book, Uday has done a fine job. He knows what he is writing about and he has managed to keep the intrigue intact in the story throughout. My only problem with the book was its lousy editing. It could have been much better seeing the fact that the plot and the characters had such a huge potential. Nevertheless, the book can be read once and also, I must mentioned that some proceeds from the sale of this book will go to charity. So, this must give you another reason to shell out some bucks for this one.
July 7, 2014
After completing the whole book when I think over the name the first word that escapes my mouth is perfect, it can’t be better because the whole story unfolds around the call to The Helpline.
The cover complements the name and the content perfectly. The way the cover is designed keeping the content in mind is appreciable. The red back cover and white front cover along with the blood completes the look.
After reading a few pages I forgot that this is a work of a debut writer who belongs from a non-writing background. A delightful way of using direct narrative style. No unnecessary usage of phrases or unpronounceable words makes the book more gripping. Few editing errors are spotted but that can easily be ignored. The simple yet efficient storytelling skill of the author, makes this story more demanding.
The book starts with the main protagonist Samir visualizing scenes in the state of a trauma. As the story moves on and Samir calls the suicidal helpline the story starts to grip the mind of the readers. The way of introducing his characters is so good, that any reader can easily make a sketch in their mind. I have seen poems or songs inside a novel but this story have few wonderfully written short stories which gives the book a new height. As the book heads towards the end and the protagonist completes his part of narrating, the story starts to give a strong message. I got goose bumps while reading the end. Kudos to the author for framing such a captivating story.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
The cover complements the name and the content perfectly. The way the cover is designed keeping the content in mind is appreciable. The red back cover and white front cover along with the blood completes the look.
After reading a few pages I forgot that this is a work of a debut writer who belongs from a non-writing background. A delightful way of using direct narrative style. No unnecessary usage of phrases or unpronounceable words makes the book more gripping. Few editing errors are spotted but that can easily be ignored. The simple yet efficient storytelling skill of the author, makes this story more demanding.
The book starts with the main protagonist Samir visualizing scenes in the state of a trauma. As the story moves on and Samir calls the suicidal helpline the story starts to grip the mind of the readers. The way of introducing his characters is so good, that any reader can easily make a sketch in their mind. I have seen poems or songs inside a novel but this story have few wonderfully written short stories which gives the book a new height. As the book heads towards the end and the protagonist completes his part of narrating, the story starts to give a strong message. I got goose bumps while reading the end. Kudos to the author for framing such a captivating story.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
July 18, 2014
The Helpline by Uday Mane is not a book to be read. Yes, it is not. It is a message that needs to be spread wide across the masses. With my review, I do my bit and after reading the review, you need to complete your bit by buying a copy for yourself and soothe your senses.
Samir is introduced to us as a boy with a suicidal tendency. People who care for him continue to follow their lives comforting him but there is a hidden pain that is searching the way out. A voice that needs to be heard, a story that needs a narrator and here he is - Uday Mane.
This is a narrative that describes how does a person with a suicidal tendency feels, what all does he experience when the world sees him as motionless creature occupying the vacant chair. He dives deep into the ocean of memories and brings out the pearls that bring shine in Samir's eyes.
He has a strong hold on his characters and their roles. He has this in-depth understanding of the psyche of the vulnerable personality. Not by any means, you can make out that this is his first tryst with the ink and nibs. Kudos.
A benchmark book for the youth of India.
Source: http://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/2...
Samir is introduced to us as a boy with a suicidal tendency. People who care for him continue to follow their lives comforting him but there is a hidden pain that is searching the way out. A voice that needs to be heard, a story that needs a narrator and here he is - Uday Mane.
This is a narrative that describes how does a person with a suicidal tendency feels, what all does he experience when the world sees him as motionless creature occupying the vacant chair. He dives deep into the ocean of memories and brings out the pearls that bring shine in Samir's eyes.
He has a strong hold on his characters and their roles. He has this in-depth understanding of the psyche of the vulnerable personality. Not by any means, you can make out that this is his first tryst with the ink and nibs. Kudos.
A benchmark book for the youth of India.
Source: http://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/2...
June 21, 2014
The Helpline, a gripping narrative by the debutant writer Uday Mane is published by Frog Books (an imprint of Leadstart Publishing Pvt Ltd). The paper and print quality show that it is a publication house that we should keep an eye on. The cover designed by Yogesh Parab is apt as much as the title is and hooks the readers. It will instantly make you want to grab the book and read on.
The too many turmoil of Samir’s love life is just one of the reasons you want to keep turning the pages to find out what happens in The Helpline. To find out whether he survives the misery of a broken love story, how he turns suicidal and who is Rachael, how she helps him through a suicide helpline, is he able to discover himself after all, how strong is his friendship with Neha, how long will she stick to him to help him survive, what role do the books play in his life, how significant is this mysterious girl Riya and her brother Siddhartha in Samir’s life, when the time comes will he choose to survive or go in an oblivion world; you will have to read the novel, The Helpline.
Read the complete review here: http://ilashininggem.blogspot.in/2014...
The too many turmoil of Samir’s love life is just one of the reasons you want to keep turning the pages to find out what happens in The Helpline. To find out whether he survives the misery of a broken love story, how he turns suicidal and who is Rachael, how she helps him through a suicide helpline, is he able to discover himself after all, how strong is his friendship with Neha, how long will she stick to him to help him survive, what role do the books play in his life, how significant is this mysterious girl Riya and her brother Siddhartha in Samir’s life, when the time comes will he choose to survive or go in an oblivion world; you will have to read the novel, The Helpline.
Read the complete review here: http://ilashininggem.blogspot.in/2014...
August 12, 2014
First of all, Thanks. I won this book in the giveaway. My first win, so I was excited to read it. Plus, the expectations were low. It was a quick and easy read. I would list out what I liked and what could be better.
The GOODs – Story, Characters and the short stories included in between.
The not so GOODs – The flow/way of writing can be improved. For example, in one paragraph, same word was repeated a lot of times, which could be avoided. Considering this is the first book of the writer, I would say I enjoyed reading it. But otherwise, there is a lot of room for improvement.
All the best! :)
The GOODs – Story, Characters and the short stories included in between.
The not so GOODs – The flow/way of writing can be improved. For example, in one paragraph, same word was repeated a lot of times, which could be avoided. Considering this is the first book of the writer, I would say I enjoyed reading it. But otherwise, there is a lot of room for improvement.
All the best! :)
September 19, 2014
I received the book through Goodreads First Reads.
The Helpline by Uday Mane has a beautiful, emotional love story which made me feel a tug at my heartstrings. The story is realistic and the well drawn characters make us fall in love with them. The writing style of the author is interesting and is of real quality. Hope Mr. Mane keeps this level of writing in his future books. As others pointed out, the book demands a bit of better editing.
Overall, a good read which is definitely worth our time and money.
"This is not a story about falling in love. This is a story of rising from a failed love."
The Helpline by Uday Mane has a beautiful, emotional love story which made me feel a tug at my heartstrings. The story is realistic and the well drawn characters make us fall in love with them. The writing style of the author is interesting and is of real quality. Hope Mr. Mane keeps this level of writing in his future books. As others pointed out, the book demands a bit of better editing.
Overall, a good read which is definitely worth our time and money.
"This is not a story about falling in love. This is a story of rising from a failed love."
July 10, 2014
As the author says, this is not a story about falling in love but is a story of rising from a failed love story. It's about love, loss, friendship and hope.
The writing style is very nice and interesting, and I must say that the author has crafted this book really well. I liked the way he has captured the emotions like innocence, guilt, pain...
For me it was an interesting and intriguing read!
Read the full review on my blog: http://tarangsinha.blogspot.in/2014/0...
The writing style is very nice and interesting, and I must say that the author has crafted this book really well. I liked the way he has captured the emotions like innocence, guilt, pain...
For me it was an interesting and intriguing read!
Read the full review on my blog: http://tarangsinha.blogspot.in/2014/0...
August 25, 2014
I got this book as a part of the free giveaways from goodreads.
This book is a fresh and nice attempt at novel writing, especially when it is the author's first book. The title is catchy and the story is touching and emotional. It is slow in the begining but soon gathers pace. The end was a bit loose though and could have been better. Also a few grammatical mistakes were present which could have been avoided during editing.
Overall it was a nice reading experience. Looking forward to more books from Uday Mane.!
This book is a fresh and nice attempt at novel writing, especially when it is the author's first book. The title is catchy and the story is touching and emotional. It is slow in the begining but soon gathers pace. The end was a bit loose though and could have been better. Also a few grammatical mistakes were present which could have been avoided during editing.
Overall it was a nice reading experience. Looking forward to more books from Uday Mane.!
Read
May 3, 2017Disclaimer: I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
I liked the book. A nice story with a message that should be carried to all the teenagers that life can go on no matter how bad our losses are. Some of the things were nicely written. Some of the things were touching and brought tears in my eyes. But at places, I felt the scenes were dragged unnecessarily and some of the things were predictable. However the main point of this book was to carry a message, which it did nicely so Thumbs up Mr. Uday Mane!
I liked the book. A nice story with a message that should be carried to all the teenagers that life can go on no matter how bad our losses are. Some of the things were nicely written. Some of the things were touching and brought tears in my eyes. But at places, I felt the scenes were dragged unnecessarily and some of the things were predictable. However the main point of this book was to carry a message, which it did nicely so Thumbs up Mr. Uday Mane!
October 1, 2014
I loved the way the love story between Riya and Samir developed, focussing on the pure love feeling, rather than the intimacy and physical attraction of teenagers as in many other novels. The build up of the refreshing love story was very casual and slow enough or rather step by step. The complexity of a disabled child with Downs Syndrome, and how positively they treat this child in between their feelings of love, and his role in keeping them together is beautifully etched...
For complete review, click http://archanaonline.com/2014/10/01/t...
For complete review, click http://archanaonline.com/2014/10/01/t...
August 1, 2014
The Helpline is an intersting read. Fact Paced and with a social message........
The best thing about this book is the way Uday has turned it out... The book's ending amazed me.....
The only thing that didnt work for me was that the naration did drag a bit at times.....
Uday is definately an author I'm going to look forward to reading..... Infact he's managed to put out some sound concepts that i felt i could relate to and incorporate myself through a work of fiction.
The best thing about this book is the way Uday has turned it out... The book's ending amazed me.....
The only thing that didnt work for me was that the naration did drag a bit at times.....
Uday is definately an author I'm going to look forward to reading..... Infact he's managed to put out some sound concepts that i felt i could relate to and incorporate myself through a work of fiction.
April 10, 2015
Uday mane has proved that he can write and boy, he writes well. But to be very honest the story line was better than his writing skill. The authors needs more sharpness.
Talking about the book, it's a very nice read. A nice combination of emotions and suspense. It has a capacity to bound the readers. WORTH READING.
Talking about the book, it's a very nice read. A nice combination of emotions and suspense. It has a capacity to bound the readers. WORTH READING.
July 30, 2014
The writing style is engrossing and interesting. The book picks up pace after the initial two chapters.
Read the rest of the review here.
Read the rest of the review here.
Want to read
July 20, 2014Wow I won will edit my review as soon as I receive and read it
August 16, 2014
Decent and quick read. The ending's with a pleasant twist. No vulgarity is an added bonus.
September 16, 2015
(Disclaimer: I know the author personally, and he is a good friend)
While I know Uday Mane, and I always knew that he loved writing, and I always enjoyed his blogs, I was still very pleasantly surprised when I read The Helpline. I am a blogger myself (though an occasional one), and I know how difficult it is to keep a reader glued throughout a 700-odd-word blogpost. This is A NOVEL! And despite this fact, the writing kept me motivated to continue further through most of the piece. I say "most of the piece", because this is not a perfect novel. Let's face facts - No novel is perfect, no writer is perfect. Mane is also not perfect.
I usually tend to visualize my interest level while reading a novel in form of a graph. For The Helpline, the start was as good as it can get. Brilliant introductions, outstanding narrative, exceptional writing! Then, it dipped as I was getting done with the first third of the novel. Somehow, it is not hard to believe that Mane, being more accustomed to the shorter form of writing (i.e. blogging), was overzealous with the treatment of the middle section of the novel (when most of the flashback happens). Here, the writing gets too descriptive. Let me provide an example:
The excerpt above is from a scene where the main character (Samir) pays his love interest (Riya) a visit, and they cook together. There are some extreme details which I, as a reader, felt distracted by. It may be that the author wanted to showcase how much attention Samir paid to even the most nondescript activities that Riya performed; but if that is true, the desired effect could not be brought out completely. As a reader, I felt that it took the focus away from the narrative.
However, as the story progresses further into the final third, the narrative once again takes you in its powerful grip. Samir's deep depression is evident from the writing, to the point that you feel like helping him. The writing is well-paced, too. When you reach the finale of the novel, you are completely taken aback by the huge shocker that awaits you (it would be great injustice disclosing it here). And it is the finest part of The Helpline! Wish I could state more, but all I can say is that it shows how much Uday Mane loves writing, because this is where Samir's love for writing can truly be witnessed. And this is where it does most justice to me, as a reader. The Epilogue is beautiful, too, and adds another possibility to how the story actually ended. This appears intentional, and I feel that Mane allows his readers to speculate, something I don't feel any debut writer ever would have done, because we writers are not usually that brave.
I would not be wrong to say that The Helpline, though having its lows, is a story written with conviction and with heart. A reader like me finds that to be the most important characteristic a novel can possess.
As I end this review, I would like to share some beautiful excerpts, too:
While I know Uday Mane, and I always knew that he loved writing, and I always enjoyed his blogs, I was still very pleasantly surprised when I read The Helpline. I am a blogger myself (though an occasional one), and I know how difficult it is to keep a reader glued throughout a 700-odd-word blogpost. This is A NOVEL! And despite this fact, the writing kept me motivated to continue further through most of the piece. I say "most of the piece", because this is not a perfect novel. Let's face facts - No novel is perfect, no writer is perfect. Mane is also not perfect.
I usually tend to visualize my interest level while reading a novel in form of a graph. For The Helpline, the start was as good as it can get. Brilliant introductions, outstanding narrative, exceptional writing! Then, it dipped as I was getting done with the first third of the novel. Somehow, it is not hard to believe that Mane, being more accustomed to the shorter form of writing (i.e. blogging), was overzealous with the treatment of the middle section of the novel (when most of the flashback happens). Here, the writing gets too descriptive. Let me provide an example:
She poured soaked rice in the cooker and lit the burner to medium flames. “I cleaned the rice before you came,” she informed without turning around. She placed the cooker on the burner, washed her hand, wiped it with a kitchen cloth and said, “So, either you can cut the onions or clean the prawns.” “I will take the onions,” I jumped at my option. She leaned over the working space and reached for a knife. From under the desk, she produced a couple of onions and placed them on the wooden cutting board. She slid the board toward me and said, “Slice them thin.” She moved around the kitchen, picking up a couple of dishes and the prawns bowl on her way back to the desk. She adjusted a trash can between her legs and began working on cleaning the prawns. Just watching her work around the kitchen was delightful.
The excerpt above is from a scene where the main character (Samir) pays his love interest (Riya) a visit, and they cook together. There are some extreme details which I, as a reader, felt distracted by. It may be that the author wanted to showcase how much attention Samir paid to even the most nondescript activities that Riya performed; but if that is true, the desired effect could not be brought out completely. As a reader, I felt that it took the focus away from the narrative.
However, as the story progresses further into the final third, the narrative once again takes you in its powerful grip. Samir's deep depression is evident from the writing, to the point that you feel like helping him. The writing is well-paced, too. When you reach the finale of the novel, you are completely taken aback by the huge shocker that awaits you (it would be great injustice disclosing it here). And it is the finest part of The Helpline! Wish I could state more, but all I can say is that it shows how much Uday Mane loves writing, because this is where Samir's love for writing can truly be witnessed. And this is where it does most justice to me, as a reader. The Epilogue is beautiful, too, and adds another possibility to how the story actually ended. This appears intentional, and I feel that Mane allows his readers to speculate, something I don't feel any debut writer ever would have done, because we writers are not usually that brave.
I would not be wrong to say that The Helpline, though having its lows, is a story written with conviction and with heart. A reader like me finds that to be the most important characteristic a novel can possess.
As I end this review, I would like to share some beautiful excerpts, too:
Death is but the only bitter irony of life.
I am not the protagonist. I am a guy and there are circumstances.
Time is the biggest swindler; it skips on me when I am not looking.
There must be 120 ways to die , but the toughest part is not killing yourself but what happens after. Somebody will have to clean up after you, probably a friend or family, who will never recover from your decision.
There is a thing about our lives. Sometimes you believe you know yourselves far too well. It does not matter if you do. There will occur instances to remind you constantly of what you really are and where you are going to end up.
“Did you know that if we were surrounded by all the books in the world, we would not need to talk to say things to each other?”...
... It happened one Autumn.
On the Night of the Seventh Moon.
A Smooth Talking Stranger.
A Beautiful Mind.
Perfect.
It Had to be You.
Where Dreams Begin.
From This Day.
Love Story.
Nobody’s Baby But Mine.
Once and Always.
Dreaming of you.
I am Ok; You are Ok.
Everything is illuminated.
One Hundred Years of solitude.
For Better, For Worse, Forever.
Till Death do us apart.
April 28, 2018
Storyline was gripping but it seems proofreading /editing was skipped as there were some spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and typos which could have been avoided.
October 20, 2014
The story is about Samir, the son of a rich politician father. Samir learns his values from his Nana and appears to have a lovely life until he turns fifteen and Nana passes away. But his luck continues to hold till his meeting with Neha at college. She’s a wonderful friend who stands by him through rain or shine. And then there is lovely Riya and her brother Siddartha, who suffers from Down’s Syndrome. One can say Samir is lucky to be surrounded by lovely people, but then the carpet is pulled from under his feet and he turns suicidal. How much ever Neha tries to help him, Samir refuses to help himself. Read the story to find out what happens to Samir when he contacts a suicide Helpline.
The story has its heart in the right place. It talks of a young man who is forced to study Engineering while he hates it. He wants to become a writer but that’s completely unacceptable to his father. But Nana had told him he could be anything he wanted to. Torn in different directions, Samir has a tough time until Riya comes back into his life only to tell him after a few months that she’s going abroad for a couple of years. Samir is shattered.
Read the full review here: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in...
The story has its heart in the right place. It talks of a young man who is forced to study Engineering while he hates it. He wants to become a writer but that’s completely unacceptable to his father. But Nana had told him he could be anything he wanted to. Torn in different directions, Samir has a tough time until Riya comes back into his life only to tell him after a few months that she’s going abroad for a couple of years. Samir is shattered.
Read the full review here: http://sundarivenkatraman.blogspot.in...
July 13, 2016
The Helpline is the story of Samir Masand, a college dropout and budding writer who is battling with suicidal thoughts. He has supportive friends who try to help him out and one of these efforts end up in passing him the number of this suicide helpline. Even though Samir resists the idea of taking help from some helpline initially, on one of his bad days he finally decides to call them. The call is answered by Rachel, a volunteer at the helpline who calms down Samir and urges him to share why he wants to end his life. After a lot of cajoling, Samir agrees and it is through this conversation that you get an insight into the life Samir has led till now and what were the circumstances and decisions that led him to a place where he thought that taking his own was the only way out.
I absolutely loved the narration of the book. It does get a little slow at a couple of places but overall its a decently paced and detailed. The strongest thing about the book is the characterisation. You can smile while you remember your strict loving grandparent when you read about Nana, remember the time you spent with....Read complete review here: http://www.coml13.com/index.php/2015/...
I absolutely loved the narration of the book. It does get a little slow at a couple of places but overall its a decently paced and detailed. The strongest thing about the book is the characterisation. You can smile while you remember your strict loving grandparent when you read about Nana, remember the time you spent with....Read complete review here: http://www.coml13.com/index.php/2015/...
March 9, 2015
The synopsis is simple yet effective in delivering the message of what you would be chancing upon by reading this book. And after all the fantasy, scifi books I’ve been reading, this one was a happy change.The author is a natural storyteller, with deep understanding of the topic & has a liberal, unbiased outlook.My only complaint is that the writing or vocabulary didn’t exactly stand out.The editing could have been better as there were a lot of spelling mistakes and grammatical errors.Overall a good book that takes us through the contemporary stage of the protagonists painting a realistic depiction, filled with hopes and hunger for freedom that seem to arise spontaneously in the protagonists.
September 14, 2015
The phase that everyone at some part of our lives goes through, the phase that brings lots of negativity, the phase one cannot understand oneself - DEPRESSION. This is well captured in Helpline.
I liked the love that blossoms between Riya and Samir. There are many places where one tempts to flip pages to know the end, control that eagerness for suspense awaits you. Good read.
I liked the love that blossoms between Riya and Samir. There are many places where one tempts to flip pages to know the end, control that eagerness for suspense awaits you. Good read.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews