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9 Pebbles 9 Ripples

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Daytime stories for adults!
Just as a pebble tossed into a placid pool creates ripples, likewise, the reader must discern which story evokes which rasa within them.

In Sanskrit literature 'rasa' can mean taste, juice, emotion, or mood.
Nav-rasas are joy/laughter (hasya), fear (bhayanaka), anger (raudra),
romance (shringar), courage (vira), grief/compassion (karuna),
amazement (adbhuta), disgust (vibhatsya), and peace (shanti).

Each of these nine short stories originate from a rasa.

70 pages, Paperback

Published September 7, 2024

5 people want to read

About the author

Shinde Sweety

3 books107 followers
The heart can be dissected, the brain can be spliced open, but I love to unravel the mind and emotions.
Age: Wisdom tooth? Check. Silver-grey streaks? Check.
Marital status: Was a footloose bachelorette, until Chiku (my naughty bitch) lassoed a leash around my ankle and adopted me as her single Mom :)

Genres I dig: Mystery, Thriller, short stories, Historical fiction

Hobbies to perk me up: Swimming, Sanskrit, sketching, yoga, daydreaming, music

Genres I penned till date: Mythology (Arjun- without a doubt),
Medical Drama (Rage of Maggots)

My upcoming projects: Mytho dystopia, Thriller murder mystery and so on

Instagram: sweetyshinde_author

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for ⭐Toonasa⭐ •Romance Book Lovers' Haven•.
1,576 reviews295 followers
June 12, 2025
4.25/5 Stars ✨
This is a short book, collection of 9 small stories inspired the 9 "rasas" (emotions), used in sanskrit (& hindi) literature. Joy, anger, disgust, love (& more)—you can feel them all. I easily read this in like 1hr!

This was by 1st book by Shinde. It was mostly easy to understand but had few confusing scenes. The Apocalypse story had its quirky (Shakespearean?) feel. All stories are in 3rd person, except last one 🤔🤷‍♀️. Also, the table of content has the page number column blank, so was it for me to fill up lol? 😅

Anyhow, on the stories front: (may contain minor spoilers, as it's my thoughts on each story.)

God's Jigsaw Puzzle had quite the subtle twist. I do think that only the fight was important & Jia should've been let to pin up her sheets (IYKYK). It did show that every bad thing has a reason to occur.

Taali-ban was hilarious, in a bad situation kinda way. I hope no real publication is like that? Right?! 😬.

Apocalypse made me wonder at 1st, until it all clicked! Good message. I do think that mothers/parents've their reasons for abortion & that isn't necessarily bad, but gender targeted female foeticide? Worst.

Forbidden Fruit, ugh that's relatable! We all had that stuck food in teeth, ya?

Enemy at Gates, ever thought to personify microbes? Yeah, it's interesting.

7-hour-itch. Doctors truly are the unsung heroes, especially during the pandemic. Forgoing biases. Also, this book had like 2 COVID-related stories, FYI.

Romancing Raju is 1 of the longer stories. It's got the feel of crush start. But ugh, Raju's sexist-like thoughts grated my nerves! I'm glad she overtook you 😤.

Love Thy Neighbour, another longer story, & oh man this just makes me sad. Obvious domestic abuse & (almost) no one stops it 😩. & Those who did, suffered? + Ugh poor dog. Life's not fair!

Hello, delivers a true message, especially for those like me in their 20s. Dreams vs corporate, chose your priorities wisely to not regret it in future.

Overall, good stories. Thank you to organiser & author for my paperback review copy.

** #arcHonestReview #AllViewsAreMyOwn **

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20 reviews
November 8, 2024
The engrossing anthology 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples by Dr. Sweety Shinde explores the core of interpersonal connections and human nature. Each of the intricately crafted tales captures the reverberations that even seemingly little events may have on our lives. Readers are captivated by the emotional depth of each story by Dr. Shinde's straightforward yet profound style. A book that will make you feel, connect, and engage in a million different feelings.

The book was a wonderful read because of its straightforward language and sincere emotion. An outstanding and remarkable one to comprehend the dynamics of life and human experiences.

Wonderful read
Profile Image for Geetika Adhikary.
120 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2025
In 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples, Dr. Sweety Shinde presents a mesmerizing collection of short stories that dive deep into the complexities of human emotions. Each narrative, like a small yet significant “pebble,” sends out ripples, stirring both the hearts and minds of its readers. With masterful storytelling, Dr. Shinde draws inspiration from the nine rasas of the Natya Shastra, a classical framework for understanding human emotions in Indian aesthetics. These stories evoke a wide spectrum of emotional responses—joy, sorrow, anger, fear, and more—allowing readers to explore and interpret the connections in their own personal ways.

The stories are laced with suspense, introspection, and an underlying current of profound emotional depth. Dr. Shinde’s writing style is compelling, drawing readers in from the very first page, and keeping them hooked as the narratives unfold. Her ability to capture the subtle nuances of the human experience creates a bond between the reader and the characters, making every emotion feel vivid and real.

What truly sets this collection apart is its ability to resonate long after the stories end. The emotions invoked by the "pebbles" ripple through the consciousness, leaving an imprint on the reader’s mind and heart. As the stories encourage reflection on life, love, and the myriad human conditions, they ignite a longing for more—more of the emotions, more of the introspection, and more of Dr. Shinde’s poignant storytelling. 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a collection that invites the reader to experience, reflect, and, ultimately, connect with the raw, unspoken currents of life.
Profile Image for Madiha Reads.
850 reviews14 followers
November 12, 2024

The book’s title really suits it. There are nine stories, and each one affects the way we think, kind of like throwing pebbles into a pond. The pond is our mind, and the ripples are the changes each story brings about. Each story stirs something up, making little waves that change how we see things, even if just a bit.

Every story in this book feels like a heartwarming experience, written in such a wholesome and simple way that I found myself connecting instantly. Each tale resonates in a personal way, making it easy to relate. It’s not flashy or complex—just honest, meaningful, and deeply satisfying to read.

The stories are filled with human emotions that feel so in sync with real life and the practical world we all live in. Each story reflects feelings we've all had, making it easy to connect. It's genuine and down-to-earth, giving me a sense of connection with each character's journey.
100 reviews4 followers
February 10, 2025
Book Review: 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples
Author: Dr. Sweety Shinde
"The heart can be dissected, the brain can be sliced open, but I love to unravel the mind and emotions." With this bold declaration, Dr. Sweety Shinde sets the tone for her collection of short stories in 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples. Through nine stories, she presents small yet potent “pebbles,” each crafted to create ripples in the hearts and minds of her readers.
The book of short stories, “9 Pebbles 9 Ripples”, is an interesting assortment of stories, each to represent one of the ‘nine ’rasas proposed by Sanskrit scholar Bharata in his treatise of Natya Shastra. While the author doesn’t specify which rasa each story evokes, she leaves it to the reader to interpret and connect with the emotional undercurrents. Some stories may evoke more than one rasa. However, at the cost of being labelled as a spoiler, I can’t but share a few glimpses in a short review like this to express my emotions in reading the book, which does not qualify for a spoiler, but only an appetiser.. Not all, but the one that touched my heart most.
I am talking about the story, “Apocalypse” and it certainly is a story that oozes “Adbhut Rasa.” The story has mythological characters, Vishnu and Lakshmi, but the central idea of the story is strikingly contemporary and thought-provoking. The story is told through an unusual conversation between the god and goddess, and to make it interesting, they speaketh in old English ( inspired by Shakespeare?), and Vishnu even quotes about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Would you like to know how the story is connected to the present-day hot movie of Kalki? To do that, you need to pick up the book.
For readers who enjoy suspenseful twists, Love Thy Neighbour delivers a compelling tale. Not all neighbours are lovable- some can be extremely irritating, if not downright dangerous, and this story explores just how far those complications can go.
The collection opens with God’s Jigsaw Puzzle, an intriguing story that hooks readers immediately, setting the tone for the emotional journey ahead. The stories vary in length, with some being short yet impactful, and the book concludes with Hello, leaving readers both satisfied and yearning for more.
Readers will likely find themselves waiting for her to choose to throw some more “pebbles” so that they can enjoy some more ripples stirred in their hearts.
Profile Image for Scube.
87 reviews5 followers
February 14, 2025
Having previously read Rage of Maggots by Dr. Sweety Shinde, I was excited to dive into another one of her work. 9 Pebbles, 9 Ripples did not disappoint and kept me equally engaged with each of its nine short stories. The book lives up to its title, drawing inspiration from the Sanskrit word rasa, with each story beautifully capturing one of the nine core emotions: joy, fear, anger, romance, courage, grief, amazement, disgust, and peace. As a reader, you're left to interpret which emotion each story evokes.

I enjoyed all the stories thoroughly, and here’s how I felt:

- God's Jigsaw Puzzle – Fear
- Taali-Ban – Disgust
- Apocalypse – Amazement
- Forbidden Fruit – Laughter
- Enemy at the Gates – Anger
- 7-Hour Itch – Courage
- Romancing Raju – Romance and Laughter
- Love the Neighbor – Compassion
- Hello – Peace

Two stories that stood out to me were 7-Hour Itch and Romancing Raju.

7-Hour Itch takes place during the COVID pandemic and features a female protagonist, a doctor, who works tirelessly to care for patients. The way the author draws parallels between religion and the pandemic made me reflect long after I had finished reading. One line in particular resonated with me: “Since childhood, she has been used to being wrapped in layers of black cape and hood. Her friends often ask, 'Don’t you feel suffocated?' And now look at them—men and women, all bundled up in masks, veils, dupattas, and handkerchiefs.”

Romancing Raju, on the other hand, was an absolute joy to read. The male protagonist is a typical male chauvinist, insecure about women and always seeking validation for being a man in a corrupted world. I have to give credit to the author for her clever wordplay and engaging writing style, which made the story even more entertaining.

Overall, this book is a must-read and definitely worth your time. I just wish I had a paperback copy of Rage of Maggots as well. Dr. Sweety Shinde has definitely won my heart with her storytelling.
192 reviews10 followers
October 21, 2024
Sweet Shinde has crafted a necklace of nine gems on nine different emotions. Right from the story where a 10 minutes delay starts a chain of events which saves Jui's life to the humour Taali-ban to the vile practice of female infanticide there are stories that reminds you similar incidents you could have experienced, witnessed or heard. COVID figures prominently in some stories giving a more contemporary feeling to them. The best is left as the last story , which, I am sure will leave us thinking seriously about ourselves. A must read book.
29 reviews
October 29, 2024
Dr. Sweety Shinde’s book, ‘9 Pebbles 9 Ripples’ is a beautiful book. Engaging short stories with a pleasant flowing language. that illuminate the beauty in life's simple moments. Each tale resonates with emotional depth, showcasing how small experiences can lead to significant changes in our lives. Each narrative captures a unique moment, demonstrating how small actions can create profound effects on our lives and relationships. This collection is a poignant reminder of the beauty found in life's simple moments, leaving a lasting impact on its readers.
29 reviews
October 29, 2024
Dr. Sweety Shinde's 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples offers a heartfelt collection of short stories that touch upon the intricacies of human life. Each story acts as a glimpse into different facets of emotions, from joy and sorrow to hope and healing. The narratives are concise yet impactful, drawing readers into a reflective journey. Dr. Shinde's writing captures the essence of everyday struggles and triumphs with grace. This collection is a celebration of life’s quiet, powerful moments that leave a lasting impression.
12 reviews
October 29, 2024
9 Pebbles 9 Ripples by Dr. Sweety Shinde is a captivating anthology that dives into the essence of human nature and relationships. Each tale serves as a pebble, creating ripples of insight into the complexities of life, love, and loss. Shinde’s ability to evoke emotion through everyday moments is truly commendable, making the collection relatable and impactful. This anthology is a treasure for those seeking reflection and inspiration through storytelling.
12 reviews
October 29, 2024
Dr. Sweety Shinde’s 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a remarkable collection that intricately weaves together stories of human connection and emotional depth. Each narrative delicately unfolds, revealing profound truths about love, loss, and resilience. The author’s lyrical prose captures the beauty of ordinary moments, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences. It’s an inspiring read that reminds us of the lasting impact of life’s small, significant moments.
24 reviews
October 29, 2024
Dr. Sweety Shinde's 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a beautifully curated collection of stories that explore the subtle yet profound moments in life. The stories are delicately woven, each one reflecting the ripples that small moments can create in our lives. Dr. Shinde's prose is simple yet profound, drawing readers into the emotional depth of each narrative. The book encourages introspection, leaving readers with lingering thoughts and a sense of connection.
Profile Image for Tasneem Anjum.
146 reviews8 followers
February 15, 2025
With 9 entirely different short stories evoking a multitude of emotions, this anthology is a surprising mix where the reader acts as a detective to pick which of the 9 'rasas' were prominent, i.e.,Joy/comedy (hasya), fear (bhayanaka), anger (raudra), romance (shringar), courage (vira), grief/compassion (karuna), amazement (adbhuta), disgust (vibhatsya) and peace (shanti).

My thoughts:
•Each story is short, crisp and contemplative, where facts and fiction are baked with reality.

1. God's Jigsaw Puzzle: How events in our lives are all interconnected, yet we focus on our plans whether they went right or not⌛

2. Taali-ban: How controversy creates curiosity and thus a greater hype, even in the publishing world📚

3. Apocalypse: Humans messing with young lives without caring for great prophecies and heading to their eventual downfall👶🏻

4. Forbidden Fruit: When a minor discomfort has greater consequences. This was the most relatable🍎

5. Enemy at the Gates: A battalion making strategies to attack an unaware host🦠

6. 7 hour itch: Internal monologue of a ©ov!d warrior, the struggles that doctors faced in those gruelling years👩🏻‍⚕️

7. Romancing Raju: Does material wealth give a sense of entitlement and allow superficial judgement?

8. Love Thy Neighbour: Having a supportive environment is crucial for mental health, here the protagonist faced some REALLY nasty neighbours 😮‍💨

9. Hello: A heart to heart conversation with younger self, how life can suck out joy over the years, but it's not too late to reclaim those little wishes✨
4 reviews1 follower
November 13, 2024
9 Pebbles
9 Ripples
By Dr Sweety Shinde
It’s a pleasant surprise like an unexpected dessert. I opened the book hoping to read some normal short stories but I was awestruck by the collage of varied textures. It bursts pleasantly on your skin to create more ripples. An amazing book that leaves one wanting for more
Profile Image for Sudeshna Banerjee.
1,327 reviews39 followers
February 11, 2025
"9 Pebbles 9 Ripples" is a very alluring collection of nine short stories that explore complex human emotions and experiences. A story inspired through the concept 'nav-rasas' meaning nine emotions that exist in literature, each focusing on joy, fear, anger, romance, courage, loss, amazement, loathing, or peace. Every story is very closely interlocked with the reader's mind making ripples about thought and emotions.

Simple yet elegant, the writing style employed by Dr. Shinde establishes a connect with the reader based on the journey of characters. The poetic quality of her prose is enriched with images, which help to breathe life into the tales. The author's well-placed dialogue and internal discourse provide credibility to the characters' voices, thus enhancing the emotional appeal of the stories.

The book affects the reader's emotional state and induces deep thoughts. Dr. Shinde's emphasis on human emotions resonates with the readers, forcing them to think about their experiences and relationships. The stories give a sense of connection and correlation, leaving an imprint on their minds.

Two of my favourite stories from this book are 'God's Jigsaw Puzzle' and '7-hour itch'. I could relate to these stories so much and loved them personally. I would highly recommend "9 Pebbles 9 Ripples" to anyone who is interested in short stories, human emotions, or simply an engrossing and thought-provoking read, as mixing emotional depth with great literary craftsmanship and captivating storytelling definitely makes it a worthy addition to any collection of a reader.
Profile Image for Madhu.
42 reviews1 follower
November 27, 2024
This book is a collection of nine vibrant stories, each brimming with emotions. These tales have the remarkable ability to transport readers back to nostalgic moments from their past or inspire dreams of tomorrow. While every story stands out in its own unique way, a few touched me deeply, perhaps because they awakened emotions I thought were long gone. Thank you, dear author, for not only helping me reconnect with those feelings but also reminding me that it’s never too late to rekindle them.

God’s Jigsaw Puzzle
This is the story of a schoolgirl who believes she has saved her teacher. It is a touching tale of hope, one that stays with you long after reading. It reminds us of the kind of optimism and faith we often lose with age but secretly yearn to reclaim.

Taali-Ban
This story will likely make readers uncomfortable, as it depicts a stark and unsettling reality. Yet, it holds a profound truth: the forbidden fruit is always the sweetest. The author’s unflinching honesty in exploring this theme is both bold and thought-provoking.

Apocalypse
We’ve all encountered Shakespearean-style storytelling, but have you ever seen Indian mythology infused with the Bard’s signature touch? This story reimagines the tenth incarnation of Vishnu in a completely novel way, blending mythological depth with Shakespearean drama.

Forbidden Fruit
A short, humorous story about an awkward moment in a crowd. If you’ve ever made a fool of yourself at work, this tale will bring a knowing smile to your face and remind you of those cringe-worthy yet laughable moments.

Love Thy Neighbour
This powerful narrative revolves around a retired policeman’s family and a young doctor. It depicts violence and the complex interplay between offender, savior, and victim. But what lingers is a poignant question: what about the silence of the victim? This story feels painfully close to reality, challenging readers to reflect on morality and justice.

Hello
The final story is about rediscovering a part of ourselves that we’ve forgotten or lost. It’s a gentle reminder that these fragments of our identity can be rekindled if we allow ourselves to remember and embrace them. The author succeeds in stirring a longing for self-reconnection, leaving readers with hope and introspection.

Profile Image for ♡ Diyasha ♡.
487 reviews18 followers
February 25, 2025
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: 9 𝐏𝐞𝐛𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 9 𝐑𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞

🍷9 𝐏𝐞𝐛𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 9 𝐑𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 explores 𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐯𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 that define 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩, 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, and 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 in a whole new level. The 𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞 holds a 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠. No? 9 pebbles that is thrown into the water creates layers after layers - just like life creates a different pattern in our lives and moves on to create a new one. That's easy to understand but also 𝐬𝐲𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜. Dr. Sweety Shinde is a master of creating a new genre in the English literary world.

🍷Each of these nine short stories is different from each other and holds an immense acceptance from its readers. I loved the short stories of 𝐓𝐀𝐀𝐋𝐈-𝐁𝐀𝐍 and 𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐌𝐘 𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒. Hope you'll love it too. Each story can be interpreted on multiple levels, making it suitable for both casual reading and deeper reflection. Whether it's about pain, love, loss, introspection, realization, they ends up with the themes of hope and healing, human emotions, fate and free will, philosophical reflections.

🍷How the characters find hope at the end of the darkness is impressive. Despite the brevity of short stories, the characters feel real and multi-dimensional. The stories are like our stories with different realizations. Sometimes I felt happy, sometime I was sad and sometimes I was flustered but never disappointed.

🍷The author's writing style is engaging and accessible. Her precise observations of human behavior, the crisp dialogue, and the vivid descriptions are making the settings and emotions come alive. Some stories may feel abstract for readers who prefer a straightforward narrative. What is eye catching - the author's efforts to make a soft scenario into a profound one is truly striking here.

🍷9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a beautifully crafted collection that lingers in the mind long after the last page. It is ideal for readers who enjoy 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧-𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬. Dr. Sweety Shinde’s storytelling is both 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞 and 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥, making this book a worthwhile read for those who appreciate 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 and 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐬𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲.
65 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2025
Dr. Sweety Shinde’s 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a sharp and thoughtful collection of nine short stories, each woven around the timeless framework of navarasas—the nine fundamental emotions of art and life. Within these pages, you’ll find love, awe, fear, anger, courage, and more, often blending seamlessly into one another to create complex shades of human experience.

Shinde’s writing style is crisp and deliberate, offering just the right amount of detail to spotlight the essence of each emotion. Her narratives are short and uncluttered, yet they ripple with impact—sometimes gently, sometimes with a quick burst—mirroring the unpredictability of real life. Beneath these ripples, she reveals the quirks, contradictions, and vulnerabilities of human nature, pulling the reader into the same swirl of emotions as her characters.

The stories stand out for their diversity in tone—some are humorous, some satirical, and others deeply moving. A few even explore life in the shadow of Covid, capturing how the pandemic altered human behavior in ways both profound and mundane. From divine dialogues to reflections with one’s younger self, each piece carries a unique perspective while holding up a mirror to our own truths.

Though compact, the book leaves a lasting impression. It’s insightful, witty, and at times uncomfortably honest, making it a collection worth savoring. Highly recommended if you’re looking for stories that both entertain and provoke reflection.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sridevi Sridhar.
41 reviews4 followers
December 5, 2025
Sweety Shinde presents a concise yet profound exploration of human emotion in 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples, a compilation of nine short stories, each meticulously anchored to one of the ancient Navarasas (nine fundamental sentiments). This structural framework provides a powerful lens through which the author dissects the full emotional spectrum, resulting in a read that is both intellectually satisfying and quickly gratifying.

For readers short on time, this book functions as an emotional espresso that is intense, stimulating and perfectly portioned.

The stories are executed with impressive control, demonstrating the author’s mastery of the brief narrative form. I found the narratives embodying Karuna (compassion) and Shanta (peace) particularly moving, achieving genuine resonance without relying on excessive length. They have to be my absolute favourite.

This collection defies typical expectations of volume and scale. It proves that significant emotional impact can be delivered in concentrated doses. 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is an essential pick for anyone seeking a unique, well-structured literary journey that celebrates the full, vibrant tapestry of human feeling. It serves as a stimulating and culturally resonant antidote to the lengthy novel.

This book reminded me how powerful a single emotion can be. It makes me curious to know what feeling has been rippling through your life lately?
Profile Image for Deepak M.R..
Author 8 books7 followers
July 14, 2025
If you love reading stories, especially short stories, then 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a must read. This collection of short stories by Dr. Sweety Shinde is special because of the use of the 9 rasas or emotions. Each of the 9 stories in this collection have a rasa associated with it that defines the story.

The highlight of this collection is that it is a quick read. The stories are almost like flash fiction that you can finish in one sitting. In fact, the book will intrigue you so much that you will finish it in one sitting. It is a perfect book to read when you are travelling or want to take a short break. You can finish all the stories in one go and enjoy an emotional rollercoaster ride.

The author knows how to connect with the reader and hooks you right from the first line. The easy style of narration is smooth and makes reading the stories a pleasure. Once you complete the book, you will understand the meaning of the titles. Each of the stories are like pebbles that will cause ripples in your mind evoking emotions.

Each of the stories is engaging and I liked them all. The first one is my favourite. The story that has a conversation between Vishnu and Lakshmi is unique. It is a book that I strongly recommend for all those who love to read short stories. Do read this book and let the stories kindle emotions in your heart.
Profile Image for Shipra Arora.
181 reviews6 followers
December 15, 2025
This book is a beautiful collection of short stories. Each story is simple, emotional, and full of little life lessons. But out of all the stories…
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❤️ I loved ONE short story the MOST!
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The short story “Love Thy Neighbour” became my absolute favourite. It touched my heart in a very soft, deep way. I felt connected to the characters, especially the little dog Cherry. This story stayed in my mind even after I finished reading the book.
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✨ What I Loved in the Book
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📘 Easy language and short chapters
🐾 Emotional stories that feel real
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Characters who feel like normal people around us
🌼 Each story has a small message
💓 One story really touched my heart (my favourite: “Love Thy Neighbour”)
🏡 Shows family, neighbours, emotions, fear, kindness… everything
🐶 Cherry the dog makes the story even more sweet and powerful
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💖 Why “Love Thy Neighbour” Is My Favourite
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🐶 It has a cute dog who is full of love
👧 It shows Nina and her small struggles
🏘️ It teaches us not to judge neighbours too fast
😢 It has mystery, sadness and a strong emotional moment
🌟 The ending shocked me in a beautiful
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This book is easy to read, heart-touching, and perfect for people who love short emotional stories.
Some stories are good…
Some stories are nice…
But the book in whole is beyond perfect ❤️
60 reviews
March 21, 2025
There are books you love, books you appreciate, and books that feel like they were meant for you. This collection of short story collections felt exactly that for me. It didn’t just tell stories; it made me feel seen.

Each story felt like an ephemeral moment trapped in time, yet long after I turned the pages, they would persist in my conscience. Some reminded me of the quiet yet odd conversations I’ve had with myself during the wee hours. Some were like old memories resurfacing again, noveltized. There were funny ones, bizarrely sad ones, and a few made me blank out, staring at the ceiling with a mind full of thoughts.

What impressed me most was the effortless weaving of contrasting emotions throughout the book: hope, regret, longing, the whole lot—none of it felt contrived. It was never trying to impress; it was simply true. And that authenticity really made me think about my own experiences, my own choices, and the emotions I tend to shove under the rug.

To me, this book was much more than a collection of stories. It was also the reason why I started reading in the first place. To feel. To understand. To connect. But most importantly, it teaches me that in stories that are not really mine, I can find traces of myself.
31 reviews
March 23, 2025
There are books you love, books you appreciate, and books that feel like they were meant for you. This collection of short story collections felt exactly that for me. It didn’t just tell stories; it made me feel seen.

Each story felt like an ephemeral moment trapped in time, yet long after I turned the pages, they would persist in my conscience. Some reminded me of the quiet yet odd conversations I’ve had with myself during the wee hours. Some were like old memories resurfacing again, noveltized. There were funny ones, bizarrely sad ones, and a few made me blank out, staring at the ceiling with a mind full of thoughts.

What impressed me most was the effortless weaving of contrasting emotions throughout the book: hope, regret, longing, the whole lot—none of it felt contrived. It was never trying to impress; it was simply true. And that authenticity really made me think about my own experiences, my own choices, and the emotions I tend to shove under the rug.

To me, this book was much more than a collection of stories. It was also the reason why I started reading in the first place. To feel. To understand. To connect. But most importantly, it teaches me that in stories that are not really mine, I can find traces of myself
Profile Image for Shweta Sinha.
701 reviews8 followers
June 4, 2025


“9 Pebbles 9 Ripples” presents an emotionally immersive reading experience, appealing to a wide audience through its thematic diversity and emotional relatability. Each of the nine stories is crafted with careful attention to tone and narrative, allowing readers from varied backgrounds to find something they connect with. The thematic variety—ranging from suspense and moral tension in “Forbidden Fruit” to the quiet poignancy of “Hello”—demonstrates the author’s ability to explore different aspects of the human condition.

One of the book’s strongest qualities is how it transforms everyday incidents into emotionally impactful stories. This speaks to a broader commentary on life itself: that even the smallest events can hold profound meaning when seen through a thoughtful lens.

The stories avoid over-explaining, encouraging introspection and emotional engagement. The book doesn’t just narrate—it invites the reader into a collaborative emotional experience. As a result, the collection feels more like a conversation than a monologue.

“9 Pebbles 9 Ripples” is, at its core, a celebration of subtlety, reflection, and emotional honesty—making it both a rewarding and memorable read.
Profile Image for Book Blogger.
451 reviews6 followers
October 22, 2024
A work of art embellished with a rasa – within the artist and the audience alike – complete the essence of knowledge and truth.

"... she gave a giant gulp and wolfed it down her throat."

The story "Forbidden Fruit" is all about humour amid hectic workload of a typical organization. The tenacity to get rid of an issue can cause some bewildering moment around us.

I personally felt the story "God’s jigsaw puzzle" which emphasizes the occurrence of inevitable good in a turbulent situation. "I pray that you reached home safe that day. I hope that I argued long enough to delay you." The story is very much engaging because of the unexpected twist.

The book through its exploration of human life shows “Life has you dancing to its deadlines.”

Each story has a meaning and filled with adventure.

The characters are well developed and drives the readers towards a satisfying reading experience.

The title of the book is exciting and the cover of the book is highly commendable.

The book is influenced by nine Rasas accordingly. The readers can discern which story evokes which rasa within them after reading the crisp yet elaborate stories.
Profile Image for L Venkata Subramaniam.
Author 1 book3 followers
August 9, 2025
9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a truly enchanting collection of short stories — each one a little world of its own, beautifully written and thoughtfully woven. The stories vary in length, yet every single one carries an emotional depth that resonates long after you’ve finished reading. Some make you pause and reflect; others wrap you in warmth, like a familiar melody you’ve always known.

The title itself stirred something special in me — 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples instantly transported me back to my childhood days on the shores of Nakki Lake. I could almost feel the cool breeze on my face, the sunlight dancing on the water, and the joy of tossing pebbles into the still surface, watching ripples expand endlessly outward. That same sense of quiet magic runs through the pages of this book.

This is more than a set of stories; it’s an invitation to remember, to dream, and to feel. The author’s ability to blend simplicity with emotional richness makes this a book you’ll want to return to, again and again. A deeply rewarding read for anyone who loves stories that touch both the heart and the imagination.
24 reviews
September 5, 2025
Book Review: 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples 🌸
Author: Dr. Sweety Shinde
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

9 Pebbles 9 Ripples may be a slim book, but it carries a universe of emotions within its nine short stories. Each piece is crafted with simplicity yet touches something profound be it kindness, destiny, courage, or the quiet resilience that shines in ordinary lives.

As I read, I felt a strong sense of connection. The emotions aren’t distant or dramatic they’re so real that I could easily see fragments of my own life reflected in them. The author’s writing flows effortlessly, making every story both heartfelt and thought-provoking.

The ones that resonated most with me were Love Thy Neighbor . Both stories left me pausing to absorb their warmth and depth, long after I finished.

The title couldn’t be more fitting each story truly lands like a small pebble, sending ripples through the heart and mind.

If you enjoy quick but meaningful reads that linger with you, this book is a delightful choice. It’s gentle yet impactful a reminder that even the simplest stories can leave the deepest impressions. 💕
Profile Image for Bhavi Nagda.
69 reviews
September 7, 2025
9 Pebbles 9 Ripples by Dr. Sweety Shinde is a heartwarming collection of short stories that will touch your soul. Each story is like a small pebble thrown into a pond, creating gentle ripples that spread far and wide. The author's writing is simple, yet profound, exploring themes of kindness, love, and resilience in a way that's both relatable and thought-provoking.

What I loved most about this book is how it captures the beauty of everyday moments and the people in them. The characters are real, flawed, and lovable, and their stories will make you smile, nod your head in recognition, and maybe even tear up a little.

The stories that stood out to me were "Love Thy Neighbor," which showed the power of kindness and compassion in a beautiful way. The writing is effortless, and the emotions feel authentic and true to life.

If you're looking for a book that will make you feel good, think deeply, and maybe even inspire you to be a better person, then 9 Pebbles 9 Ripples is a great choice. It's a delightful read that's perfect for a cozy evening in, and its themes and stories will stay with you long after you finish reading.
Profile Image for Reader Vivek.
226 reviews11 followers
December 2, 2025
Okay, so let’s talk about 9 Pebbles… 9 Ripples. This book feels like having a cozy chat with someone who truly understands emotions. Sweety Shinde has crafted nine little gems—tiny moments from life, really—but each one resonates with a truth you didn’t even know you were missing. She dives into topics like navigating confusing feelings, knowing when to let go, picking up on subtle changes in relationships, and finding clarity amidst the emotional chaos. It’s all so genuine and relatable.

The best part? The writing isn’t dense or overly literary. It’s more like a friend sharing a story over coffee, and you find yourself nodding along, thinking, “Yeah, that makes total sense.” Some pieces offer comfort, others tug at your heartstrings, and a few make you pause and reflect on your own life experiences.

It’s a quick read, but not in a hurried way—more like a book you keep close by to dip into whenever you need a little mental escape. The whole “pebble and ripple” concept is spot on, capturing how life works: those small moments creating significant emotional waves. So, if you’re into gentle, relatable, and thought-provoking reads, this book is truly a delightful companion.
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