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Dancing With Demons
Karan Pratap Singh is on the brink of winning the Amateur Boxing Championship, when in a moment, he loses it all. His fall from glory seems fuelled by ruthless arrogance and an out-of-control anger management problem. That, however is just symptomatic of a deeper issue. Buried under layers of his fractured subconscious lies a childhood secret he cannot come to terms with.
Sonia Kapoor is a beautiful, volatile young woman with a secret that torments her at night but a secret that she feels no guilt for.
When fate throws Karan and Sonia together in Mumbai, their personal demons and pasts collide and stir up trouble in their fragile and uncertain present. But, is redemption possible without forgiveness?
Dancing with Demons is a fast-paced action drama of love, loss and resurrection.
Sonia Kapoor is a beautiful, volatile young woman with a secret that torments her at night but a secret that she feels no guilt for.
When fate throws Karan and Sonia together in Mumbai, their personal demons and pasts collide and stir up trouble in their fragile and uncertain present. But, is redemption possible without forgiveness?
Dancing with Demons is a fast-paced action drama of love, loss and resurrection.
296 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2014
4 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Nidhie Sharma
6 books32 followersNidhie Sharma is a Writer-Director living in Mumbai, known for authoring ‘Dancing with Demons’, the first boxing fiction drama in India and her work in Bollywood. ‘Dancing with Demons’ is a Crossword Fiction Bestseller.
Her second book titled 'Invictus', an inspirational autobiographical account of surviving a jungle near the Indo-China border as a thirteen year old was published on Aug 10, 2021. The book has been on the Amazon 'Outdoor survival' bestseller charts at Number 1.
She has studied filmmaking and Screenwriting from New York University and has previously graduated with honors in English Literature.
Sharma has recently written on the third season of Emmy Award Nominated cricket-thriller web series 'Inside Edge' for Amazon Prime Video which soon. She has previously worked as an Associate/Second Unit Director on the second season of the Anil Kapoor helmed adaptation of Hollywood action thriller series 24 and on political thriller feature film 'Daasdev' and ‘Yeh Saali Zindagi’
Having previously directed documentaries, ‘Kids Bank of India’ for Climate Change activist Al Gore's Current TV (Al Jazeera), travelogues for the American and European markets, and working on American indie ‘YOU’ in Los Angeles, Sharma is directing a mainstream Indian film soon.
Nidhie Sharma was raised in the Armed forces environment and has extensively travelled the world. An adventure sports enthusiast, she is passionate about telling human stories set within the action genre. Her twitter handle is @iamnidhiesharma.
Her second book titled 'Invictus', an inspirational autobiographical account of surviving a jungle near the Indo-China border as a thirteen year old was published on Aug 10, 2021. The book has been on the Amazon 'Outdoor survival' bestseller charts at Number 1.
She has studied filmmaking and Screenwriting from New York University and has previously graduated with honors in English Literature.
Sharma has recently written on the third season of Emmy Award Nominated cricket-thriller web series 'Inside Edge' for Amazon Prime Video which soon. She has previously worked as an Associate/Second Unit Director on the second season of the Anil Kapoor helmed adaptation of Hollywood action thriller series 24 and on political thriller feature film 'Daasdev' and ‘Yeh Saali Zindagi’
Having previously directed documentaries, ‘Kids Bank of India’ for Climate Change activist Al Gore's Current TV (Al Jazeera), travelogues for the American and European markets, and working on American indie ‘YOU’ in Los Angeles, Sharma is directing a mainstream Indian film soon.
Nidhie Sharma was raised in the Armed forces environment and has extensively travelled the world. An adventure sports enthusiast, she is passionate about telling human stories set within the action genre. Her twitter handle is @iamnidhiesharma.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 29, 2016
Disclaimer: I received a free paperback version of this book from the author via The Book Club in return for my honest review.
Karan is a boxer. I was hesitant to sign up for the book for this reason. I can’t relate to this bloody sport. But I heard from some people that the book is really good and got tempted. I am glad I did.
The story begins with Karan in the boxing ring. He’s on the verge of winning the finals and has great chances of participating in the Olympics. But his demons surface at the wrong moment, to the point that he beats up his opponent to a pulp. That’s when he’s banned from boxing for the next four years. His coach and mentor Jerry is terribly disappointed with his pupil and washes his hands off him. It’s up to Madan to help Karan to survive. Madan organises underground matches where Karan makes enough money to get by.
Into this scene walks Sonia. She goes to live in Karan’s spare bedroom as a PG. She also has her demons to face and has recurring nightmares. Read the story to find out if the two of them are able to set behind their ghosts and get on with their lives.
Sonia’s character has been brilliantly sketched. Her characteristics are introduced bit by bit until we get to know the whole Sonia after many chapters. I simply loved it. The scene I like best is when she goes to buy a bottle of Old Monk at a shady shop. No, I won’t tell more. I am sure everyone will want to read it.
Karan is also a superb character, only second to Sonia. The author has done a lot of research on boxing and has made the story and situations totally authentic. I got pulled in with the descriptions despite not liking the sport.
Next come Jerry and Madan who are equally good. All the other characters – Imtiaz, Vijay, Sawant, Chottu, Ria and the others – everyone played their roles to perfection.
What I liked best about the book was that I wanted to know what happened next at the turn of every page. Well paced and interesting. Kudos to the author!
I have just one peeve. After all the build up towards the end, the epilogue is too brief and abrupt. I know the reader should be left begging for more, but even considering that, it was rather disappointing.
Karan is a boxer. I was hesitant to sign up for the book for this reason. I can’t relate to this bloody sport. But I heard from some people that the book is really good and got tempted. I am glad I did.
The story begins with Karan in the boxing ring. He’s on the verge of winning the finals and has great chances of participating in the Olympics. But his demons surface at the wrong moment, to the point that he beats up his opponent to a pulp. That’s when he’s banned from boxing for the next four years. His coach and mentor Jerry is terribly disappointed with his pupil and washes his hands off him. It’s up to Madan to help Karan to survive. Madan organises underground matches where Karan makes enough money to get by.
Into this scene walks Sonia. She goes to live in Karan’s spare bedroom as a PG. She also has her demons to face and has recurring nightmares. Read the story to find out if the two of them are able to set behind their ghosts and get on with their lives.
Sonia’s character has been brilliantly sketched. Her characteristics are introduced bit by bit until we get to know the whole Sonia after many chapters. I simply loved it. The scene I like best is when she goes to buy a bottle of Old Monk at a shady shop. No, I won’t tell more. I am sure everyone will want to read it.
Karan is also a superb character, only second to Sonia. The author has done a lot of research on boxing and has made the story and situations totally authentic. I got pulled in with the descriptions despite not liking the sport.
Next come Jerry and Madan who are equally good. All the other characters – Imtiaz, Vijay, Sawant, Chottu, Ria and the others – everyone played their roles to perfection.
What I liked best about the book was that I wanted to know what happened next at the turn of every page. Well paced and interesting. Kudos to the author!
I have just one peeve. After all the build up towards the end, the epilogue is too brief and abrupt. I know the reader should be left begging for more, but even considering that, it was rather disappointing.
December 19, 2016
Indeed an enticing cover and title different from usual rom-coms, and the blurb says that the novel is based on ‘boxing’ which is new to me as a reader, and hence I picked this book for review when The Book Club offered.
Excellent characterization – be it Karan or Sonia, the author has fleshed the characters pretty well. Especially Sonia, her character resonates with the reader in you for hours together post reading.
A beautiful novel with the events that concoct to keep the reader in you engaged. The author has done justice for the time spent on this novel. A sheer recommendations for a light read in one go. The chapters are knit well, fast and intriguing throughout. Very well written novel.
There were interesting details about the rule and regulations of boxing which amused me to a great extent.
The novel is also on par with excellence with respect to grammar and sentence structure, the editor deserves a good pat on his/her back for this. Tremendous job!
The only disappointing factor is the abrupt ending, otherwise a very promising novel by the author. Looking forward to read more by the author.
Excellent characterization – be it Karan or Sonia, the author has fleshed the characters pretty well. Especially Sonia, her character resonates with the reader in you for hours together post reading.
A beautiful novel with the events that concoct to keep the reader in you engaged. The author has done justice for the time spent on this novel. A sheer recommendations for a light read in one go. The chapters are knit well, fast and intriguing throughout. Very well written novel.
There were interesting details about the rule and regulations of boxing which amused me to a great extent.
The novel is also on par with excellence with respect to grammar and sentence structure, the editor deserves a good pat on his/her back for this. Tremendous job!
The only disappointing factor is the abrupt ending, otherwise a very promising novel by the author. Looking forward to read more by the author.
July 25, 2016
Sports romances have always been a favourite of mine and boxing in itself is a lure. I have always been fascinated by that sport and it has played a big role in me picking up this book. The author has delivered a really great read with this book.
The blurb is fascinating enough to reel in a reader and the book name is in itself another bait because it is so aptly named. I was instantly wondering about the protagonists and their stories.
The story starts off with the end of Karan's boxing journey and promptly leads us further into the life Karan has carved out for himself with the help of Madan. And then enters Sonia into the storm that is Karan's life. How they fall for other and how they work out their future are what kept me interested till the end.
The protagonists, Karan and Sonia, both of them, are very strong characters. They both have had bad luck and they are right now dealing with their personal demons. They are both determined and passionate and angry. There's so much passion and anger that both of them ignite when they interact. This does lead to some misleading scenes which help in breaking them apart and then finally making them come together.
The author has treated the story with the right amount of expertise. Her knowledge and passion for boxing are seen in the technical details. The story itself is finely crafted especially Sonia's backstory. Karan's story is out there for us right from the start. Sonia is the mystery there and each layer is expertly peeled to show the entire face of Sonia near the end. The plot is fast paced and had me turning the pages eagerly awaiting the next scene. There is an air of anticipation while reading the book.
The book not only satisfies my appetite for action but also for emotion and romance. The romantic aspect was a bit lacking in the sense that there could have been a bit more personal connection between them. The chemistry is hot enough to ignite the pages. The reader's emotions are easily engaged by the characters.
Another positive point for the story was the visualization aspect. The scenes are very easy to imagine and that's because of the author's writing style. She shows rather than tell and it shows! I for one can easily imagine this book being made into a movie.
A very interesting face paced sports romance drama inspite of the ending being a tad abrupt.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review via The Book Club*
My Rating : 4.5/5
July 10, 2016
Dancing with Demons is action packed book .It is like having a masala chai that contains various ingredients like elachi ,lavang , dal chini and mint leaves . This book contains similar things….like lots of emotional clogging ,suppressed anger and ofcourse demons which makes the book interesting to read
Author Nidhie Sharma has written the book in an ethnic way with appropriate proportion of lots of dishum dishum in it , which helped me to visualize each and every scene in an elaborate way .The book is quiet lengthy ,but it keeps the readers hooked on to story till the end.
The emotions of characters like Karan and Sonia are carefully weaved in a filmy way . Whenever the lead protagonist try to make things right by focusing their energy on something then and there , their past like a blood sucking leech haunts and drains out their focused energy by making them feel and vulnerable .This particular aspect of Karan and Sonia is apt because we also do face demons in our lives like break up i, rejection of proposal due to medical issues which when we see /hear it again our energy gets drained .
And this makes feel Grrh…….
So to shut these demons we focus on work , which spoils our relations with our close and immediate family .
Dancing with Demons book by Nidhie Sharma has described the anguish and wish of Karan and Sonia in a sensitive way .This book will give you all a reason to feel good in rainy season because it is written by Nidhie Sharma .I applaud Nidhie Sharma for writing some intrinsic scene in the book in a flawlessly fashion ,as writing these kind of scenes is a bit difficult for others writers like me because such scenes should be written in a proper state of mind .
I recommend this book strongly to all because I bet that you will not get a better book to read this seasons as it has all compound which a good reader and good reviewer would want ..
Author Nidhie Sharma has written the book in an ethnic way with appropriate proportion of lots of dishum dishum in it , which helped me to visualize each and every scene in an elaborate way .The book is quiet lengthy ,but it keeps the readers hooked on to story till the end.
The emotions of characters like Karan and Sonia are carefully weaved in a filmy way . Whenever the lead protagonist try to make things right by focusing their energy on something then and there , their past like a blood sucking leech haunts and drains out their focused energy by making them feel and vulnerable .This particular aspect of Karan and Sonia is apt because we also do face demons in our lives like break up i, rejection of proposal due to medical issues which when we see /hear it again our energy gets drained .
And this makes feel Grrh…….
So to shut these demons we focus on work , which spoils our relations with our close and immediate family .
Dancing with Demons book by Nidhie Sharma has described the anguish and wish of Karan and Sonia in a sensitive way .This book will give you all a reason to feel good in rainy season because it is written by Nidhie Sharma .I applaud Nidhie Sharma for writing some intrinsic scene in the book in a flawlessly fashion ,as writing these kind of scenes is a bit difficult for others writers like me because such scenes should be written in a proper state of mind .
I recommend this book strongly to all because I bet that you will not get a better book to read this seasons as it has all compound which a good reader and good reviewer would want ..
October 31, 2014
Downloaded this book a few days back and started reading it immediately. Very interesting plot. Each chapter ends on a high note and creates intrigue. I particularly liked the two characters and their fiery chemistry. Boxing matches are very engaging. The fast pace keeps you turning the pages. Very visual and well written.
July 1, 2017
Well to begin with, i m not much of a sports enthusiastic, but somewhere after i came across a woman writing about boxing was something difficult to fathom. Once i started reading this book, it felt as if i could visualise the storyline. The language is crisp and chapters are intriguing. Although the storyline was reminiscent with emotions, i was rooting for more romance but never the less, thats my weakness.
Who controls the past controls the future, who controls the present controls the past.
Way to go for the author. Awaiting this eloquent fiction novel to become a big screen masterpiece.
Who controls the past controls the future, who controls the present controls the past.
Way to go for the author. Awaiting this eloquent fiction novel to become a big screen masterpiece.
June 30, 2016
Dancing with Demons is a unique book with a different concept. Lets have a look at it thoroughly :
Cover- The color scheme of the book is blue and black. It has a boxing field and down there is couple who seems to be standing on the road. The cover of the book gives us the glimpse of the novel.
Title- Dancing with Demons is the title and I feel it perfectly suits the book as the characters fight with their inner demons and the way they struggle to overcome them is being shown here.
Blurb-Karan Pratap Singh is on the brink of winning the Amateur Boxing Championship, when in a moment, he loses it all. His fall from glory seems fuelled by ruthless arrogance and an out-of-control anger management problem. That, however is just symptomatic of a deeper issue. Buried under layers of his fractured subconscious lies a childhood secret he cannot come to terms with.
Sonia Kapoor is a beautiful, volatile young woman with a secret that torments her at night but a secret that she feels no guilt for.
When fate throws Karan and Sonia together in Mumbai, their personal demons and pasts collide and stir up trouble in their fragile and uncertain present. But, is redemption possible without forgiveness?
Dancing with Demons is a fast-paced action drama of love, loss and resurrection.
Plot- The plot is simple yet complicated. The two protagonists' stories start in the middle of nowhere. When mysterious Sonia KApoor starts staying at Karan Pratap Singh's things take a turn. Both face the hurdles of the life and sooner or later they start developing feelings for each other. But the demons and their dark past stops them to come close. When their past starts coming in their present things take a different road. The plot construction is crisp and to the point. There was no digression.
Characterization- The art of characterization is phenomenal. I really loved Karan and Sonia's character. Sonia is a round character who changes her behavior according to the situation. She is mysterious lady with a dark past. Her actions speak louder than words and the way she handles the shopkeeper and other goons is breathtaking. When she falls for Karan she waits for him to return to her. She silently prays for his victory.
Karan Pratap Singh is the heart throb of every girl whose image almost fades after the fight and his rude attitude. The ban makes his life more miserable. Slowly he tries to collect the broken pieces of his life but sooner or later he comes across more and more of mess. Sonia's entry in Karan's life brings a change in him though he never acknowledged her. he tried hard to become as hard as rock but the soft corner in his heart makes him fall for her. But he is unable to confess her as her past creates lots of issues in their lives. He tries hard to mend the things and always stuggles with his demons.
Theme- The main theme is of Guru Shishya. Karan and Jerry were really close. When Karan messed up at the field Jerry was extremely hurt. He felt as if all his struggle to make this boy a champion went in vane. he disconnected himself with KAran till his ban. Karan worked hard to get back his trust. This side of the novel is innocent and nostalgic.
The other theme is of love. Karan and Sonia fall for each other but their bitter pasts never let them come close. Though they went through trials and tribulations yet they were inseparable.
STyle- The novel is written in third person narrative. The poetic diction on the book serves as an icing on the cake. Further, the way this story is delineated is impeccable. Moreover, The variety of sentences brings positive vibes. The paper quality is amazing.
Cover- The color scheme of the book is blue and black. It has a boxing field and down there is couple who seems to be standing on the road. The cover of the book gives us the glimpse of the novel.
Title- Dancing with Demons is the title and I feel it perfectly suits the book as the characters fight with their inner demons and the way they struggle to overcome them is being shown here.
Blurb-Karan Pratap Singh is on the brink of winning the Amateur Boxing Championship, when in a moment, he loses it all. His fall from glory seems fuelled by ruthless arrogance and an out-of-control anger management problem. That, however is just symptomatic of a deeper issue. Buried under layers of his fractured subconscious lies a childhood secret he cannot come to terms with.
Sonia Kapoor is a beautiful, volatile young woman with a secret that torments her at night but a secret that she feels no guilt for.
When fate throws Karan and Sonia together in Mumbai, their personal demons and pasts collide and stir up trouble in their fragile and uncertain present. But, is redemption possible without forgiveness?
Dancing with Demons is a fast-paced action drama of love, loss and resurrection.
Plot- The plot is simple yet complicated. The two protagonists' stories start in the middle of nowhere. When mysterious Sonia KApoor starts staying at Karan Pratap Singh's things take a turn. Both face the hurdles of the life and sooner or later they start developing feelings for each other. But the demons and their dark past stops them to come close. When their past starts coming in their present things take a different road. The plot construction is crisp and to the point. There was no digression.
Characterization- The art of characterization is phenomenal. I really loved Karan and Sonia's character. Sonia is a round character who changes her behavior according to the situation. She is mysterious lady with a dark past. Her actions speak louder than words and the way she handles the shopkeeper and other goons is breathtaking. When she falls for Karan she waits for him to return to her. She silently prays for his victory.
Karan Pratap Singh is the heart throb of every girl whose image almost fades after the fight and his rude attitude. The ban makes his life more miserable. Slowly he tries to collect the broken pieces of his life but sooner or later he comes across more and more of mess. Sonia's entry in Karan's life brings a change in him though he never acknowledged her. he tried hard to become as hard as rock but the soft corner in his heart makes him fall for her. But he is unable to confess her as her past creates lots of issues in their lives. He tries hard to mend the things and always stuggles with his demons.
Theme- The main theme is of Guru Shishya. Karan and Jerry were really close. When Karan messed up at the field Jerry was extremely hurt. He felt as if all his struggle to make this boy a champion went in vane. he disconnected himself with KAran till his ban. Karan worked hard to get back his trust. This side of the novel is innocent and nostalgic.
The other theme is of love. Karan and Sonia fall for each other but their bitter pasts never let them come close. Though they went through trials and tribulations yet they were inseparable.
STyle- The novel is written in third person narrative. The poetic diction on the book serves as an icing on the cake. Further, the way this story is delineated is impeccable. Moreover, The variety of sentences brings positive vibes. The paper quality is amazing.
November 20, 2014
‘Dancing with demons’ is the first work of fiction by Nidhie Sharma. This book is a combat sports novel where romance will linger at the back of the readers head.
The cover is designed to perfection. It has every element to catch the eyes of the readers and to describe the contents of the book. The boxing ring, the couple walking with hands wrapped around each others are the indication of the mixture of combat sports and romance inside the book. The most interesting thing which I think will surely make a mark is the badge on the front saying ‘soon to be made into a Bollywood movie’. The blurb is interesting and gives the book a good first impression.
There is no introduction or starter, the author has chosen to jump into the story from the very first page which will not give the readers any room to settle down. The book is divided in short and crispy chapters which is very much in the trend these days and keeps the readers hooked. The first chapter is written wonderfully and will definitely mesmerize the readers by the narrating style and the change of events. The author has a skill of describing scenes with perfect words which will attract the readers to read more.
The story starts with Karan Pratap Singh (the main protagonist) a prominent boxer and an uprising star in a combat sport fighting one of the most important fight of his life and the readers will witness, how that fight and the inner demons of Karan will change his fate. The author has efficiently changed the scene to introduce Sonia Kapoor. The story moves on with the lives of these two, fighting their past and taking a stand against their fate. This is a Harlequin book and the readers will not get disappointed by the way the romance is injected in the story, it matches the standard. The swift juggle between the scenes, the lucid narrating style, the witty conversations and the dark characters will keep the readers engaged till the end.
One more thing that will mesmerize the readers is the characters. The characters has different shades and a very creepy past to fight with which makes them unique. The describing style of the author makes them visible to the readers and the readers will woo over the protagonists.
The book has a lot of drama, from the very beginning to the end. At some part I felt the drama was crossing the limit and dropping the speed of the story. The tiny chapters are not helping the drama to unfold either. There are some scenes where the effort of the author to keep the suspense alive by hiding some facts, was visible to the readers. The first half of the book is better than the second half and I felt the story has ended in a jiffy and lacks the expected drama.
Final Words: The characters of this book has a come alive by the author's description skill and will leave a lasting effect among the readers. A fancy story line with speedy narrating will make this book a hit.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
The cover is designed to perfection. It has every element to catch the eyes of the readers and to describe the contents of the book. The boxing ring, the couple walking with hands wrapped around each others are the indication of the mixture of combat sports and romance inside the book. The most interesting thing which I think will surely make a mark is the badge on the front saying ‘soon to be made into a Bollywood movie’. The blurb is interesting and gives the book a good first impression.
There is no introduction or starter, the author has chosen to jump into the story from the very first page which will not give the readers any room to settle down. The book is divided in short and crispy chapters which is very much in the trend these days and keeps the readers hooked. The first chapter is written wonderfully and will definitely mesmerize the readers by the narrating style and the change of events. The author has a skill of describing scenes with perfect words which will attract the readers to read more.
The story starts with Karan Pratap Singh (the main protagonist) a prominent boxer and an uprising star in a combat sport fighting one of the most important fight of his life and the readers will witness, how that fight and the inner demons of Karan will change his fate. The author has efficiently changed the scene to introduce Sonia Kapoor. The story moves on with the lives of these two, fighting their past and taking a stand against their fate. This is a Harlequin book and the readers will not get disappointed by the way the romance is injected in the story, it matches the standard. The swift juggle between the scenes, the lucid narrating style, the witty conversations and the dark characters will keep the readers engaged till the end.
One more thing that will mesmerize the readers is the characters. The characters has different shades and a very creepy past to fight with which makes them unique. The describing style of the author makes them visible to the readers and the readers will woo over the protagonists.
The book has a lot of drama, from the very beginning to the end. At some part I felt the drama was crossing the limit and dropping the speed of the story. The tiny chapters are not helping the drama to unfold either. There are some scenes where the effort of the author to keep the suspense alive by hiding some facts, was visible to the readers. The first half of the book is better than the second half and I felt the story has ended in a jiffy and lacks the expected drama.
Final Words: The characters of this book has a come alive by the author's description skill and will leave a lasting effect among the readers. A fancy story line with speedy narrating will make this book a hit.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
July 29, 2016
A story of two broken, damaged souls who are trying to find themselves, searching for acceptance and love as well. That they find each other is itself a miracle and how they find each other is the fun part – the part where I could not keep the book down.
How the two meet is the most unlikely of stories and the painful, tainted past they come from gives credibility and impetus to the story. Harsh reality, apathy and scorn makes life tough for them but they both hang on.Boxing and Karan take center stage for most of the novel and the author’s interest and research about the sport comes through. Nidhie writes with her heart and mind totally focused. Her writing is fast, precise and passionate – it had me engrossed from the first page. Different, delightful and engaging that is what this book is.
Sonia is running from her past as is Karan yet they both have so chemistry that all things fade away when they meet. How she tries to blend in spite of her beauty, her confidence. How being different is a hindrance and an advantage. Karan understands the demons she faces from her horrible past since he faces similar ones. Different yet familiar the book has enough spirit to let love triumph and how!!
She has enough problems of her own yet she has not lost her humanity, in fact both Karan and Sonia have that soft mushy center going for them, that keeps them grounded, kept me reading and made for a wonderful, sensitive page turner. She finds a safe harbour with Karan. Sonia and Karan make an unlikely pair but I was rooting for them all along. This is a story of resurrection and fighting for redemption first and a love story later. Love only makes facing those demons a must, since the two cannot coexist.
Even during the latter part of the book when the training and boxing takes center stage a little mush could have boosted their spirits. The use of the word ‘foxed’ was one that caught me many times, it seems to be the author’s favorite word used liberally especially in the beginning. I am surprised an editor did not pick it out and use a synonym. :) But this is just me stuck on a word. I loved the sentences and chapters and the story. The last few chapters show the fight and the struggle of Karan to achieve his goals. As they struggle to find closure the book steams ahead, in fact I felt the ending could be more detailed with an epilogue for romance lovers like me :) ;)
Sad but true so many love stories fall apart because we cannot let go of the demons and ghosts of our pasts. This is where Dancing with Demons wins - striking a fine balance between love and hate. A highly recommended read!
(I received a copy of the book from the author via The Book Club and this is my honest opinion.)
How the two meet is the most unlikely of stories and the painful, tainted past they come from gives credibility and impetus to the story. Harsh reality, apathy and scorn makes life tough for them but they both hang on.Boxing and Karan take center stage for most of the novel and the author’s interest and research about the sport comes through. Nidhie writes with her heart and mind totally focused. Her writing is fast, precise and passionate – it had me engrossed from the first page. Different, delightful and engaging that is what this book is.
Sonia is running from her past as is Karan yet they both have so chemistry that all things fade away when they meet. How she tries to blend in spite of her beauty, her confidence. How being different is a hindrance and an advantage. Karan understands the demons she faces from her horrible past since he faces similar ones. Different yet familiar the book has enough spirit to let love triumph and how!!
She has enough problems of her own yet she has not lost her humanity, in fact both Karan and Sonia have that soft mushy center going for them, that keeps them grounded, kept me reading and made for a wonderful, sensitive page turner. She finds a safe harbour with Karan. Sonia and Karan make an unlikely pair but I was rooting for them all along. This is a story of resurrection and fighting for redemption first and a love story later. Love only makes facing those demons a must, since the two cannot coexist.
Even during the latter part of the book when the training and boxing takes center stage a little mush could have boosted their spirits. The use of the word ‘foxed’ was one that caught me many times, it seems to be the author’s favorite word used liberally especially in the beginning. I am surprised an editor did not pick it out and use a synonym. :) But this is just me stuck on a word. I loved the sentences and chapters and the story. The last few chapters show the fight and the struggle of Karan to achieve his goals. As they struggle to find closure the book steams ahead, in fact I felt the ending could be more detailed with an epilogue for romance lovers like me :) ;)
Sad but true so many love stories fall apart because we cannot let go of the demons and ghosts of our pasts. This is where Dancing with Demons wins - striking a fine balance between love and hate. A highly recommended read!
(I received a copy of the book from the author via The Book Club and this is my honest opinion.)
July 13, 2016
Rarely do we come across novels of debutant authors which hold us in captive the moment the book lands in our hands.
Nidhie Sharma’s Dancing With Demons is one such book. The story is about Sonia and Karan. Both are facing demons of their past. Both had incidences in past, which leaves them shattered and with deep wounds.
Karan’s childhood loss makes him an angry person and when during a crucial boxing match when he faces a person from past he loses his cool, which results in beating his opponent brutally which results in 4-year ban on boxing. His one mistake makes him lose the most crucial phase of his career.
Sonia, on other hand, too had a past which gives her nightmares. She did what she felt was correct to save that one person whom she loved the most. But alas... that same person instead of being grateful accuses Sonia of destroying her life. That one incident changes Sonia, her prescriptive towards life and people. To know more about Sonia's life and the mystery around her, one must definitely read the book.
When fate throws these two shattered lonely persons together, how they face and overcome their past demons is worth a read.
Nidhie, being a debutant author has done a nice work. The way in which the boxing details, Karan’s training, each and minute details of the game are described makes you appreciate the author’s writing and research skills. While reading you feel it's written by someone who is into boxing as each and every minute detail is taken care of.
The way in which Nidhie has written about both the protagonist’s life, the way she has revealed their troubled past in bits and pieces throughout the book, which leaves the reader guessing and hooked to book and continue reading as what-happens-next kind of addiction. The twists and turns in the plots are unexpected and mind blowing.
Nice work Nidhie. Must read book if you love fiction, romance, suspense and action. Since it's gonna be made into movie soon (as it's written on the book cover), eagerly waiting to see the actions on screen, as I loved reading each and every part of the book and while reading the images have been played in my mind, can't wait to see those scenes on screen.
Happy Reading…
Nidhie Sharma’s Dancing With Demons is one such book. The story is about Sonia and Karan. Both are facing demons of their past. Both had incidences in past, which leaves them shattered and with deep wounds.
Karan’s childhood loss makes him an angry person and when during a crucial boxing match when he faces a person from past he loses his cool, which results in beating his opponent brutally which results in 4-year ban on boxing. His one mistake makes him lose the most crucial phase of his career.
Sonia, on other hand, too had a past which gives her nightmares. She did what she felt was correct to save that one person whom she loved the most. But alas... that same person instead of being grateful accuses Sonia of destroying her life. That one incident changes Sonia, her prescriptive towards life and people. To know more about Sonia's life and the mystery around her, one must definitely read the book.
When fate throws these two shattered lonely persons together, how they face and overcome their past demons is worth a read.
Nidhie, being a debutant author has done a nice work. The way in which the boxing details, Karan’s training, each and minute details of the game are described makes you appreciate the author’s writing and research skills. While reading you feel it's written by someone who is into boxing as each and every minute detail is taken care of.
The way in which Nidhie has written about both the protagonist’s life, the way she has revealed their troubled past in bits and pieces throughout the book, which leaves the reader guessing and hooked to book and continue reading as what-happens-next kind of addiction. The twists and turns in the plots are unexpected and mind blowing.
Nice work Nidhie. Must read book if you love fiction, romance, suspense and action. Since it's gonna be made into movie soon (as it's written on the book cover), eagerly waiting to see the actions on screen, as I loved reading each and every part of the book and while reading the images have been played in my mind, can't wait to see those scenes on screen.
Happy Reading…
August 4, 2016
‘Is redemption possible, without forgiveness?’ This question in the synopsis on the back of the cover, could well be called the crux of the story.
‘Dancing with demons’, is the story of two strong-willed individuals who come from completely different walks of life. Both of them, while running away from their past lives that only offered them rejections and pain, bump into each other in the most unusual of circumstances.
Karan Pratap Singh, a professional boxer manages to reach the finals of the Amateur boxing championship with is hard work and determination to rise above his past. Just when he is about to win the match and reach the Olympics- his ultimate goal- the demons of the very past show up their ugly face once again, bringing with it all the memories he had been running away from all his life. Unable to deal with it all, Karan loses his focus and beats his opponent almost to pulp, ending up with a ban for four years. He loses everything that he had earned over the years, including the money, the name, and most importantly, his goal of playing in Olympics.
Enter, Sonia, a fiery young woman. Apparently, she also has a past she is running away from. As luck would have it, the two meet each other, when she ends up at his door after looking up his advertisement in the newspaper for a tenant.
The author has gone slow in revealing Sonia’s background, and that why is she the way she is. The story, more or less, revolves around Karan Pratap Singh and his fight against all odds to win the championship once again after the ban is lifted.
I LIKED:
The author, Nidhie Sharma, has managed to keep the readers spellbound with little sparks of romance, cleverly weaved around boxing. Owing to her interest in combat sports and her proximity to the famous boxing coach, Joe Clough, Nidhie has managed to do complete justice on that front. The language and the pace is crisp and well-paced.
I DISLIKED:
My only complaint, if any, is that the romance angle could have been covered in a little more detail.
Over all, ‘Dancing with demons’ is an interesting, entertaining read. I give the book, a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Disclaimer: I had received a paperback version of the book from the author, via The Book Club, in return of my honest and unbiased review.
‘Dancing with demons’, is the story of two strong-willed individuals who come from completely different walks of life. Both of them, while running away from their past lives that only offered them rejections and pain, bump into each other in the most unusual of circumstances.
Karan Pratap Singh, a professional boxer manages to reach the finals of the Amateur boxing championship with is hard work and determination to rise above his past. Just when he is about to win the match and reach the Olympics- his ultimate goal- the demons of the very past show up their ugly face once again, bringing with it all the memories he had been running away from all his life. Unable to deal with it all, Karan loses his focus and beats his opponent almost to pulp, ending up with a ban for four years. He loses everything that he had earned over the years, including the money, the name, and most importantly, his goal of playing in Olympics.
Enter, Sonia, a fiery young woman. Apparently, she also has a past she is running away from. As luck would have it, the two meet each other, when she ends up at his door after looking up his advertisement in the newspaper for a tenant.
The author has gone slow in revealing Sonia’s background, and that why is she the way she is. The story, more or less, revolves around Karan Pratap Singh and his fight against all odds to win the championship once again after the ban is lifted.
I LIKED:
The author, Nidhie Sharma, has managed to keep the readers spellbound with little sparks of romance, cleverly weaved around boxing. Owing to her interest in combat sports and her proximity to the famous boxing coach, Joe Clough, Nidhie has managed to do complete justice on that front. The language and the pace is crisp and well-paced.
I DISLIKED:
My only complaint, if any, is that the romance angle could have been covered in a little more detail.
Over all, ‘Dancing with demons’ is an interesting, entertaining read. I give the book, a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Disclaimer: I had received a paperback version of the book from the author, via The Book Club, in return of my honest and unbiased review.
July 30, 2016
Dancing with demons is really awesome book and a different read, I have never read anything related to boxing, so this was totally different genre when I picked this book. I got this book when famous Bollywood star Salman khan’s movie Sultan being released and the movie’s theme is also on Boxing.
My feeling was mixed when I got this book as boxing is not popular sport in our country also I didn’t know how there points being calculated and how players being qualified for further round, but after reading this book I got the information easily. I think we Indian got some interest in Boxing when Vijendra Singh and Mary Kom played in Olympics otherwise it is totally alien game for India.
Now about this book, it starts when Karan Pratap Singh is going to win in boxing ring to qualify for Olympics, but his demon surfaces while boxing with his opponent and Karan severally beats his opponent which makes him disqualify for 4 years. Jerry the coach of Karan is totally disappointed because of his behavior. On the other hand Sonia who is also fighting her own demon by running away on parole. Fate connects Karan and Sonia, where she resides in Karan’s house as a PG. Read further to know how both of them face their demons and how they overcome from their past.
I liked both the lead characters especially the story of Sonia, which is presented bit by bit which makes readers to know further about her. Also author has mentioned in her acknowledgement that from where she got the inspiration to write on boxing, and also about boxing rules. Because of her research on boxing the novel is perfectly articulated and represented by the author. The boxing matches are so engaging that it keeps you turning the page. It is so well written that many times it feels like you are watching a movie.
I give 4* for the book, and loved to read this novel, also waiting to watch this on screen.
I liked this sentence it’s on a page no 215 “Doctor’s didn’t decide destinies. God did”.
I received a free paperback copy from the author via The Book Club in return for my honest review.
My feeling was mixed when I got this book as boxing is not popular sport in our country also I didn’t know how there points being calculated and how players being qualified for further round, but after reading this book I got the information easily. I think we Indian got some interest in Boxing when Vijendra Singh and Mary Kom played in Olympics otherwise it is totally alien game for India.
Now about this book, it starts when Karan Pratap Singh is going to win in boxing ring to qualify for Olympics, but his demon surfaces while boxing with his opponent and Karan severally beats his opponent which makes him disqualify for 4 years. Jerry the coach of Karan is totally disappointed because of his behavior. On the other hand Sonia who is also fighting her own demon by running away on parole. Fate connects Karan and Sonia, where she resides in Karan’s house as a PG. Read further to know how both of them face their demons and how they overcome from their past.
I liked both the lead characters especially the story of Sonia, which is presented bit by bit which makes readers to know further about her. Also author has mentioned in her acknowledgement that from where she got the inspiration to write on boxing, and also about boxing rules. Because of her research on boxing the novel is perfectly articulated and represented by the author. The boxing matches are so engaging that it keeps you turning the page. It is so well written that many times it feels like you are watching a movie.
I give 4* for the book, and loved to read this novel, also waiting to watch this on screen.
I liked this sentence it’s on a page no 215 “Doctor’s didn’t decide destinies. God did”.
I received a free paperback copy from the author via The Book Club in return for my honest review.
July 14, 2016
Don’t we all love a bit of glamour, a muscled, brooding hero and a fiery kick-ass heroine. ‘Dancing With Demons’ has all this and much more. Set in the back-drop of boxing sport, the author churns out an emotional tale with interesting backstories and sprinkling of romance.
Karan loses everything when in a moment of anger, he forgets all the rules and injures his opponent during the final of Amateur Boxing championship. He is banned for four years and spurned by his own coach, Jerry, who was his biggest support.
The story then moves four years ahead. Having no means for a living he takes up Sonia as PG and sets her up in the spare bedroom of his apartment. Sonia is also fighting her own demons from the past and prefers the arrangement with Karan, except that she has an obsession with cleanliness. Despite their resolve to remain indifferent they are drawn to each other and fall in love.
Now that his ban was over, Karan wanted to go back to boxing and redeem himself. ’Dancing With Demons’ is journey of Karan Pratap Singh to reclaim his dominance in the boxing ring against all odds. Sonia’s story is revealed bit by bit, which keeps a reader hooked.
The main characters are well developed; while Karan has an anger management problem, Sonia is daring and courageous. Amongst the supporting characters I loved the characterization of Madan, who was both shady as well as endearing. He had his own way of showing affection for Karan.
Coming to romance between our two protagonists. I felt that part of relationship needed more attention. Absence of adequate interaction and communication between them left a void in the narrative. My heart went out for Karan when he was dealing with the childhood trauma, but the romance between Karan and Sonia failed to touch my heart.
Language and narration is fantastic. The author has researched the world of boxing very well and the knowledge expertly woven into the narrative gives the story great authenticity. The novel is fast-paced packed with action and drama. An entertaining read.
Karan loses everything when in a moment of anger, he forgets all the rules and injures his opponent during the final of Amateur Boxing championship. He is banned for four years and spurned by his own coach, Jerry, who was his biggest support.
The story then moves four years ahead. Having no means for a living he takes up Sonia as PG and sets her up in the spare bedroom of his apartment. Sonia is also fighting her own demons from the past and prefers the arrangement with Karan, except that she has an obsession with cleanliness. Despite their resolve to remain indifferent they are drawn to each other and fall in love.
Now that his ban was over, Karan wanted to go back to boxing and redeem himself. ’Dancing With Demons’ is journey of Karan Pratap Singh to reclaim his dominance in the boxing ring against all odds. Sonia’s story is revealed bit by bit, which keeps a reader hooked.
The main characters are well developed; while Karan has an anger management problem, Sonia is daring and courageous. Amongst the supporting characters I loved the characterization of Madan, who was both shady as well as endearing. He had his own way of showing affection for Karan.
Coming to romance between our two protagonists. I felt that part of relationship needed more attention. Absence of adequate interaction and communication between them left a void in the narrative. My heart went out for Karan when he was dealing with the childhood trauma, but the romance between Karan and Sonia failed to touch my heart.
Language and narration is fantastic. The author has researched the world of boxing very well and the knowledge expertly woven into the narrative gives the story great authenticity. The novel is fast-paced packed with action and drama. An entertaining read.
August 7, 2016
When a Writer-Director who is an adventure sports enthusiast comes out with her first novel, which is soon to be made into a Bollywood movie, expectations are high. And Nidhie Sharma’s debut novel, “Dancing with Demons” definitely lives up to those expectations.
“Dancing with Demons” is written in a language that is raw. Nidhie Sharma has not couched her words in politeness or niceties. And somehow this adds to the story and makes it more real, though there were a few instances, where the English could have been better.
The details which go into describing the moves and rules of the boxing matches show the amount of research that has gone into the story. As I was reading the book, I sort of slipped away into another world, the world of boxing: the emotions and hopes and frustrations of the people in that world.
The title is “Dancing with Demons” and the demons are real. In both Karan’s life and Sonia’s. The pain, the anger, the angst, the frustration that the characters experience in dealing with them are portrayed really well.
I love the way she has built up the characters. Not just Karan and Sonia but the supporting cast as well. Sonia comes across as a strong headed woman. She does not take anything lying down. She fights, she drinks, she is real! So is Karan. You can see his vulnerability under his anger. Jerry as the coach feels for the young Karan and is so upset when Karan blows his career because of his anger that he walks away even though he loves Karan as his own. Madan is a lovable crook. You get irritated with him but you understand where he comes from.
What I didn’t like was that while Karan’s anger is explained, I would have liked a little more background story on Sonia. Also the story could have done with a little bit of settling down. The ending felt a little bit rushed and abrupt.
All in all a good book, a quick exciting read. It is definitely worth picking up a copy for yourself.
“Dancing with Demons” is written in a language that is raw. Nidhie Sharma has not couched her words in politeness or niceties. And somehow this adds to the story and makes it more real, though there were a few instances, where the English could have been better.
The details which go into describing the moves and rules of the boxing matches show the amount of research that has gone into the story. As I was reading the book, I sort of slipped away into another world, the world of boxing: the emotions and hopes and frustrations of the people in that world.
The title is “Dancing with Demons” and the demons are real. In both Karan’s life and Sonia’s. The pain, the anger, the angst, the frustration that the characters experience in dealing with them are portrayed really well.
I love the way she has built up the characters. Not just Karan and Sonia but the supporting cast as well. Sonia comes across as a strong headed woman. She does not take anything lying down. She fights, she drinks, she is real! So is Karan. You can see his vulnerability under his anger. Jerry as the coach feels for the young Karan and is so upset when Karan blows his career because of his anger that he walks away even though he loves Karan as his own. Madan is a lovable crook. You get irritated with him but you understand where he comes from.
What I didn’t like was that while Karan’s anger is explained, I would have liked a little more background story on Sonia. Also the story could have done with a little bit of settling down. The ending felt a little bit rushed and abrupt.
All in all a good book, a quick exciting read. It is definitely worth picking up a copy for yourself.
September 5, 2016
The story takes off with the scene from a boxing ring where Karan Pratap Singh, the protagonist is on the verge of winning the Amateur Boxing Championship. But then, his old demons come dancing to him, destroying his hopes, his dreams, his boxing career- almost. And he sure has lost his mentor and coach Jerry on that fateful night, when he decided to thrash his opponent to a pulp. A four year ban meant ruination. When he has no means of making both ends meet, Madan steps up, even if it meant organizing illegal boxing matches, getting him jobs as a security officer and the likes. He finds a paying guest for Karan- Sonia Kapoor who pays up the complete one year rent upfront.
Sonia is also fighting her own demons and is keeping a low profile. She favors this arrangement being Karan’s flatmate as he doesn’t ask any questions, stirring some true horrors of her past. A beautiful, confident, courageous woman that she is, Sonia tries to start afresh and blend in. But her past catches up with her.
As their fate collides, they struggle with their demons. Karan relishes to come back to the boxing mainstream. But will his coach forgive him? Karan and Sonia fall for each other. But how do they have any future together?
Whoa!
What impressed me most about the book was that a lot of research on boxing had gone into it, making the story powerful and true. The situations, especially the rules of the bouts were explained to the T. With the Olympic fever on, it was as if I was watching a live match. The author’s training in the sport has proved beneficial.
The characters, especially that of Karan, Sonia and Jerry are well etched. While I loved the spunk and the spirit in Sonia(especially in the Wine Shop scene and the small yet alluring moments she had with Karan), my heart went out for the dedicated, passionate and zealous Karan. Jerry’s character......
Read the rest at https://kohleyed.me/2016/08/18/dancin...
Sonia is also fighting her own demons and is keeping a low profile. She favors this arrangement being Karan’s flatmate as he doesn’t ask any questions, stirring some true horrors of her past. A beautiful, confident, courageous woman that she is, Sonia tries to start afresh and blend in. But her past catches up with her.
As their fate collides, they struggle with their demons. Karan relishes to come back to the boxing mainstream. But will his coach forgive him? Karan and Sonia fall for each other. But how do they have any future together?
Whoa!
What impressed me most about the book was that a lot of research on boxing had gone into it, making the story powerful and true. The situations, especially the rules of the bouts were explained to the T. With the Olympic fever on, it was as if I was watching a live match. The author’s training in the sport has proved beneficial.
The characters, especially that of Karan, Sonia and Jerry are well etched. While I loved the spunk and the spirit in Sonia(especially in the Wine Shop scene and the small yet alluring moments she had with Karan), my heart went out for the dedicated, passionate and zealous Karan. Jerry’s character......
Read the rest at https://kohleyed.me/2016/08/18/dancin...
August 9, 2016
What happens when a boxer, caught by his demons from the past, cruelly crushes the opponent in a match that ruins more than one life? Why is this girl reluctant to disclose her identity to anybody? And what happens when both of them meet, each one fighting with their demons from the past? Dancing with Demons is the answer to all these questions. And in the most thrilling and gripping way. I totally loved the story and storytelling.
Karan Pratap Singh, a young promising boxer has ambitious plans for Olympics. His coach Jerry has trained him well. However, destiny had some other plans for him and Karan lands himself in a 4-year band from the sport after a match. Sonia wants to keep a low profile and she succeeds till inspector Somnath finds her hiding in Karan’s flat. Both Karan and Sonia have a past that they are not very proud of. The demons from the past have their hooks deep into their present and future. Finally, they decide to face those demons once and for all.
There is something very passionate about stories built on sports background. Dancing with demons is no different. Passion and exhilaration form the core of this story. You can actually feel the pain, the enthusiasm and the conflict of the characters. The twists in the plot keep you hooked to it all through the book. The climax though slightly predictable, thankfully, does not disappoint. The writing is crisp and engaging. The transition from one chapter to another is smooth and does not leave any gap for suppositions.
The cover says “soon to be made into a Bollywood movie” and like all bookworms, I am frantically hoping that the movie should be as good as the book. Only a few movies do justice to the original books. Nidhie Sharma has certainly set the bar pretty high.
Karan Pratap Singh, a young promising boxer has ambitious plans for Olympics. His coach Jerry has trained him well. However, destiny had some other plans for him and Karan lands himself in a 4-year band from the sport after a match. Sonia wants to keep a low profile and she succeeds till inspector Somnath finds her hiding in Karan’s flat. Both Karan and Sonia have a past that they are not very proud of. The demons from the past have their hooks deep into their present and future. Finally, they decide to face those demons once and for all.
There is something very passionate about stories built on sports background. Dancing with demons is no different. Passion and exhilaration form the core of this story. You can actually feel the pain, the enthusiasm and the conflict of the characters. The twists in the plot keep you hooked to it all through the book. The climax though slightly predictable, thankfully, does not disappoint. The writing is crisp and engaging. The transition from one chapter to another is smooth and does not leave any gap for suppositions.
The cover says “soon to be made into a Bollywood movie” and like all bookworms, I am frantically hoping that the movie should be as good as the book. Only a few movies do justice to the original books. Nidhie Sharma has certainly set the bar pretty high.
September 6, 2016
Dancing with Demons is a love story of a sportsman. What kept me intrigued is the lovely book cover to start with and then the amazing plot.
The story is about Karan Pratap Singh who is touted to be the next big thing in the boxing world. But, things went wrong during his biggest match. He lost the match and even got a four year ban from boxing. Here, the chemistry between the coach and the protégé is brilliantly brought up and somewhere I could feel the pain of his coach, Jerry.
Sonia who has her past and Karan who has his demons to fight are put together, as she turns up as a paying guest in his apartment. Life is not easy for both of them as they somehow strive hard to earn a living and make ends meet. Here, the love –hate relationship between them is very nicely brought out and it is one of the factors that kept me turning pages.
Subsequently, both of them decide to face their demons and set ahead in life with right foot forward.
The plot is superbly etched and each and every character is so nicely brought out that it had a lasting impression on me. I could easily visualize everything right from the start and it shows how good the narration and plot is. I could not find even a single dull moment in the book. The other interesting thing is that, the book will soon be made into a motion picture.
Overall: The book is simply difficult to put down and it kept me entertained right from the start. I would recommend this book to one and all and especially to those who love reading romantic fiction.
The story is about Karan Pratap Singh who is touted to be the next big thing in the boxing world. But, things went wrong during his biggest match. He lost the match and even got a four year ban from boxing. Here, the chemistry between the coach and the protégé is brilliantly brought up and somewhere I could feel the pain of his coach, Jerry.
Sonia who has her past and Karan who has his demons to fight are put together, as she turns up as a paying guest in his apartment. Life is not easy for both of them as they somehow strive hard to earn a living and make ends meet. Here, the love –hate relationship between them is very nicely brought out and it is one of the factors that kept me turning pages.
Subsequently, both of them decide to face their demons and set ahead in life with right foot forward.
The plot is superbly etched and each and every character is so nicely brought out that it had a lasting impression on me. I could easily visualize everything right from the start and it shows how good the narration and plot is. I could not find even a single dull moment in the book. The other interesting thing is that, the book will soon be made into a motion picture.
Overall: The book is simply difficult to put down and it kept me entertained right from the start. I would recommend this book to one and all and especially to those who love reading romantic fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2014
Lovely story, hard to put down. I found this at a bookstore few days back and when I read the synopsis I decided to buy this one. It was a good decision. This is a really gripping and engaging tale about two misfits. I fell in love with both Sonia and Karan, specially Karan. I really liked the way their relationship was developed in the book, the slow build, the fights, the unsaid attraction, the secret glances, their inner thoughts, the humour, the explosive moments, literally as well. I think the author has done a remarkable job with the two main characters. They feel so real and their vulnerabilities moved me. The secondary characters were well developed too. I loved the character of Madan and the doctor . Jerry, the coach is very well developed as well.
The story has a lot of emotion and drama which is beautifully balanced by the action. I enjoyed the boxing element in the book. Its very refreshing to read a drama set in a world. Its a nice insight into the sport.
I also enjoyed how the themes of hope and resurrection are explored in the novel. So many layers and they slowly unravel. I also found this dry humour running through the book. It is very good storytelling and is very visual too, almost like a movie.
There are many emotional high points in the story and I felt a lump in my throat at many times. I chuckled a few times too. The author know how to control the emotion of the readers and how to keep the readers attention. It is a very well written story.
The story has a lot of emotion and drama which is beautifully balanced by the action. I enjoyed the boxing element in the book. Its very refreshing to read a drama set in a world. Its a nice insight into the sport.
I also enjoyed how the themes of hope and resurrection are explored in the novel. So many layers and they slowly unravel. I also found this dry humour running through the book. It is very good storytelling and is very visual too, almost like a movie.
There are many emotional high points in the story and I felt a lump in my throat at many times. I chuckled a few times too. The author know how to control the emotion of the readers and how to keep the readers attention. It is a very well written story.
November 7, 2014
The cover says it is to be made into a movie. I was immediately interested. Once I started to read the book, I realised I was seeing the film already. It is very visual and the boxing scenes are very exciting. The story grips from the first chapter itself. The writer has managed to capture every emotion and nuance with rare craft. Impressive for a debut novel.
Karan and Sonia are two lost souls who destiny brings together under the same roof and then all hell breaks loose. Both are strong headed and volatile. I really liked the way the writer is able to bring out their vulnerable and fragile cores using inner voices. Their clashes and soft moment and some really very entertaining scenes you will remember long after you put down the book.
The writer has with great dexterity weaved in their rough romance into the real story which to me was about two people who are looking to rise above their own limitations and secrets and vanquish the demons. Karan must make a comeback in Boxing and Sonia needs to put the past behind.
The poems in the book are beautiful and the narrative is fast with passionate flair. The author is a fine storyteller.
This is a massy and classy book for all ages. The youth will really enjoy it. Action, Raw romance, boxing, hope and final resurrection. Kudos Nidhie Sharma.
Karan and Sonia are two lost souls who destiny brings together under the same roof and then all hell breaks loose. Both are strong headed and volatile. I really liked the way the writer is able to bring out their vulnerable and fragile cores using inner voices. Their clashes and soft moment and some really very entertaining scenes you will remember long after you put down the book.
The writer has with great dexterity weaved in their rough romance into the real story which to me was about two people who are looking to rise above their own limitations and secrets and vanquish the demons. Karan must make a comeback in Boxing and Sonia needs to put the past behind.
The poems in the book are beautiful and the narrative is fast with passionate flair. The author is a fine storyteller.
This is a massy and classy book for all ages. The youth will really enjoy it. Action, Raw romance, boxing, hope and final resurrection. Kudos Nidhie Sharma.
November 12, 2014
The first thing I want to say is that it is impossible to put this book down till you reach the end. It grips you and keeps you engaged. Karan as the ex boxer trying to get this life together and Sonia as the volatile girl who comes to mumbai, both the characters grab your attention. They kept me hooked as the story and their demons revealed themselves bit by bit. The slowly building chemistry between them and the way they yo yo between attraction and friction got me immediately. I personally loved their rough and real love story. Two fractured souls secretly looking for love while continuing to grapple with their private demons that constantly come in the way.
The layers in the novel are amazing too. The Boxing chapters are full of pace and action and even though I don't understand the sport, the author took me into that world and I was transfixed by the beauty and brutality of boxing. But the real theme is that of putting our demons to rest comes out beautifully in the end.
I particularly liked how well Karan and Sonia are developed. They were complex nuanced and so easy to fall in love with. Sonia is a cracker of a heroine holds off Karan well.
All in all, the story is very visual and well written. I would absolutely recommend it. A really impressive debut novel.
The layers in the novel are amazing too. The Boxing chapters are full of pace and action and even though I don't understand the sport, the author took me into that world and I was transfixed by the beauty and brutality of boxing. But the real theme is that of putting our demons to rest comes out beautifully in the end.
I particularly liked how well Karan and Sonia are developed. They were complex nuanced and so easy to fall in love with. Sonia is a cracker of a heroine holds off Karan well.
All in all, the story is very visual and well written. I would absolutely recommend it. A really impressive debut novel.
November 7, 2014
I finished reading this book last night and cannot stop thinking about Karan and Sonia. They are still dancing in my head. So real and well fleshed out. As a reader, I found this book to be very visual. Maybe because as the book says inside that the writer is a filmmaker by profession. It would make a really engaging movie. I would go watch this film anyway.
Some stories make you examine your path and this book does that without sermonising. There are many layers in the story but I thought the message was that you can fulfil your destiny only if you are able to defeat personal demons, and that self acceptance is the first stop towards healing.
Boxing is also described in great detail and I could almost see the fights. The writer seems to know boxing from the inside. I wonder if she is a trained boxer herself?
Sonia and Karan's on-off love hate relationship is another highpoint in the book and I fell in love with both. There scenes are equally tense and funny and romantic. It feels like a real and rough love story of two misfits.
To me this is a very impressive debut by Nidhie Sharma. Fast, gripping and action packed.
Some stories make you examine your path and this book does that without sermonising. There are many layers in the story but I thought the message was that you can fulfil your destiny only if you are able to defeat personal demons, and that self acceptance is the first stop towards healing.
Boxing is also described in great detail and I could almost see the fights. The writer seems to know boxing from the inside. I wonder if she is a trained boxer herself?
Sonia and Karan's on-off love hate relationship is another highpoint in the book and I fell in love with both. There scenes are equally tense and funny and romantic. It feels like a real and rough love story of two misfits.
To me this is a very impressive debut by Nidhie Sharma. Fast, gripping and action packed.
December 3, 2014
I saw this in the new arrivals at a store and picked it up then read it over 3 days. Then I put it away to see how I feel about the story, if the story will stay with me long after I have read it. My verdict is that this story sticks. It moved me. There is a lot of emotion and drama in the telling. I am still thinking about Karan and Sonia. I love the way their characters are developed and how the mystery of their past slowly unfolds. I really enjoyed the interplay between the two protagonists. For two people as damaged as them, their love story felt very real and well developed. Also Madan and Jerry , even the doctor were well developed.
The chapters were short and the writing kept me hooked. Romance is not the main thread here, it is actually Karan and Sonia putting the demons to rest. It a lovely redemption story. I am not a fan of boxing but could tell how well the fights are researched and written.
There were so many layers to the story and the fast pace made it very gripping to read. It was hard to put the book down. Impressive debut . Highly recommended.
The chapters were short and the writing kept me hooked. Romance is not the main thread here, it is actually Karan and Sonia putting the demons to rest. It a lovely redemption story. I am not a fan of boxing but could tell how well the fights are researched and written.
There were so many layers to the story and the fast pace made it very gripping to read. It was hard to put the book down. Impressive debut . Highly recommended.
January 19, 2015
I am not a fan of boxing but there is something so gripping in the way this tale is told that I felt deeply for karan. I felt his pain and his inner conflict and could see beyond the brutality of boxing. The story keeps you engaged till the end. I could not put the book down. The writing style is a beautiful balance of speedy narration and high emotions. It flows smoothly and is very visual. Infact, I liked it more than I liked The gone girl. Very impressive for a debut writer. The theme of hope and resurrection is so beautifully brought out. I specially like the short poems in the book and the way Karan and Sonia are developed they feel very real. The boxing tournaments are well done and so is the drama and intrigue which keeps building till the demons of Karan and Sonia are revealed.
In short, this is one of the best books I have read this year. Kudos to the writer. Hoping the movie based on this book is just as good.
In short, this is one of the best books I have read this year. Kudos to the writer. Hoping the movie based on this book is just as good.
July 29, 2016
The book opens at the boxing ring and we see our protagonist about to topple his opponent and claim the title. What follows can only be called most unfortunate and the events lead to a 4 year ban for Karan in boxing. It looks like Lady Luck just got up and walked out the door and took his coach and mentor Jerry along with her. Karan has nowhere else to go and sticks with Madan who organizes illegal boxing matches where betting and such activities take place, this ensures that Karan gets enough money to put food on his table.
A gruff Karan is surprised when a girl walks into his house and agrees to stay in his spare bedroom as a paying guest. Sonia too, like Karan has multiple demons inside her, torturing her and not giving her a good night’s sleep.
The book revolves around how these two deal with each other as well the demons that live inside each of them.
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A gruff Karan is surprised when a girl walks into his house and agrees to stay in his spare bedroom as a paying guest. Sonia too, like Karan has multiple demons inside her, torturing her and not giving her a good night’s sleep.
The book revolves around how these two deal with each other as well the demons that live inside each of them.
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August 4, 2016
DWD has, not only an interesting storyline, but also equally interesting characters. Each character has their attributes that are described well enough to lend the elements of romance and mystery, in the right proportions, to the story. The story keeps you on edge, the characters ensure that your interest does not wither away.
The interesting part about the story is the focus it places on Karan and Sonia as people. There is romance, yes, but the passion doesn’t take away from the individual strength of Karan and Sonia’s characters.
The story scores well even in terms of the vocabulary used, the grammar, and the pace of the story. It could’ve been better if the small number of typos was taken care of. Nonetheless, the story holds your attention and leaves you a happy reader.
The interesting part about the story is the focus it places on Karan and Sonia as people. There is romance, yes, but the passion doesn’t take away from the individual strength of Karan and Sonia’s characters.
The story scores well even in terms of the vocabulary used, the grammar, and the pace of the story. It could’ve been better if the small number of typos was taken care of. Nonetheless, the story holds your attention and leaves you a happy reader.
November 2, 2014
I am wondering if this a love story because I think it is an amazing one with two equally powerful characters but its a lot more than a love story. Karan and Sonia stayed with me even after I had finished reading the book. To me it was more of a powerful and moving drama about two lost souls. It was about finding the courage to accept oneself and rising above it. Overall, an uplifting tale with well written boxing sequences. The story is set in mumbai but can be told in any other part of the world because of the universal theme and characters that feel like flesh and blood. Really enjoyed reading an Indian author after a long time.
October 31, 2014
Downloaded on my kindle after reading about this book online. The first thing that struck me was how well the characters were developed. I could see them almost, maybe because the writing has a visual quality. Their inner thoughts helped me understand them. The other thing was how well the story of these two people was intertwined and told. Boxing is also described in a way that makes it easy to understand it. I also enjoyed how the intrigue and mystery is slowly revealed. Gripping book overall.
December 3, 2014
Very enjoyable story. Gripping, engaging. It starts on a big high with the boxing tournament and is very visual throughout. The energetic pace of the writing never falls and thats an achievement. For me Karan and Sonia's story works and so does their very interesting relationship. The secondary characters are equally well developed. Lots of nice poems in the book. Emotion, action and intrigue are all well used. The most interesting thing for me was how skilfully the plot of the story unfolds.
Overall, one of the best debut books I have read this year.
Overall, one of the best debut books I have read this year.
August 3, 2016
#DWD #Sport #Boxing #Past #Demons #Romance
Book Review: Dancing with Demons by Nidhie Sharma
Like we promised here is the Book Review of Dancing with Demons. The book says it is getting made into a Bollywood movie.
So read the book with Irfaan Khan's voice as narrator. As you read, you will visualize it scene by scene as if in a movie.
I have been talking & playing boxing with my son since I started reading this one. Dont worry no one was hurt till I finished it ;)
Book Review: Dancing with Demons by Nidhie Sharma
Like we promised here is the Book Review of Dancing with Demons. The book says it is getting made into a Bollywood movie.
So read the book with Irfaan Khan's voice as narrator. As you read, you will visualize it scene by scene as if in a movie.
I have been talking & playing boxing with my son since I started reading this one. Dont worry no one was hurt till I finished it ;)
January 27, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. It's racy, very visual and with unexpected twists. Drama, action, romance and mystery in good measure. Both Karan and Sonia are wonderfully etched out and real characters and they suck you into their world. The book has a good message about putting your past to rest. Since the book is being adapted for the screen, it will be wonderful to see this gripping drama come to life. The boxing matches are so vivid and I could visualise them totally. Would wholly recommend this book for its story, plot and very interesting characters. Kudos to the author.
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