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Encounters - Someone's Always Waiting
ENCOUNTERS is a potpourri of five sumptuous stories involving a motley crew of protagonists. Skating along the borders of fantasy and paranormal themes, the stories track incredible and poignant journeys of self-discovery, tracing the cathartic aftermath of fleeting encounters.
155 pages, Paperback
Published November 10, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 10, 2016
Having read her first book The Revenge of Kaivalya and become a fan of Sumana Khan's writing and the way she deals with the paranormal and fantasy elements with ease, I had high hopes from Encounters too. I am sure anyone who has read Kaivalya, irrespective of whether they like the genre or not, will have the same opinion. Encounters is a collection of 5 stories that are at the same time very normal yet so very abnormal.
The first story is the one that I liked the most. Ratna falls in love with the mighty Vrka who would do anything to keep her safe. As time goes on she feels he is merely an illusion. But again, some of the incidents that happen to people around her makes it difficult for Ratna to accept that Vrka is merely an illusion.
The next tale, The Storyteller, talks of something very sad and relatable to most of us. We have seen the pain and the trauma, but all of us may not have gone through it. While reading the story, the ending is almost guessable, but then Sumana's descriptions have a way of their own - you want to lap up every word she writes.
Reminiscence is all about love and closure, seeing things from different angles and evaluating your relationship based on that. Reminiscing over a marriage of 35 years makes for an interesting read.
Happiness Clinic is one where we all will stand at some point or the other. After all the duties of an employed man, he wants to spend the rest of his time in peace with his wife. Fate makes him meet Dr. Sheshadri with whom he has an immediate connection. It is then that Sheshadri sees what he has been doing all this while to his loved ones.
Best Friends Forever is a creepy story about a girl who is possessed and her best friend. The only question that remains is, is her friend for real or is she too a figment of someone's imagination or a spirit?
The fact that she knows psychology is crystal clear in her writing, for she knows how exactly to appeal to our psyche. There is a very human touch to every story, because each one of it talks about the relationships we all have.
I loved the book and read it from cover to cover and very soon will read it again. I really hope Sumana decides to write some more.
The first story is the one that I liked the most. Ratna falls in love with the mighty Vrka who would do anything to keep her safe. As time goes on she feels he is merely an illusion. But again, some of the incidents that happen to people around her makes it difficult for Ratna to accept that Vrka is merely an illusion.
The next tale, The Storyteller, talks of something very sad and relatable to most of us. We have seen the pain and the trauma, but all of us may not have gone through it. While reading the story, the ending is almost guessable, but then Sumana's descriptions have a way of their own - you want to lap up every word she writes.
Reminiscence is all about love and closure, seeing things from different angles and evaluating your relationship based on that. Reminiscing over a marriage of 35 years makes for an interesting read.
Happiness Clinic is one where we all will stand at some point or the other. After all the duties of an employed man, he wants to spend the rest of his time in peace with his wife. Fate makes him meet Dr. Sheshadri with whom he has an immediate connection. It is then that Sheshadri sees what he has been doing all this while to his loved ones.
Best Friends Forever is a creepy story about a girl who is possessed and her best friend. The only question that remains is, is her friend for real or is she too a figment of someone's imagination or a spirit?
The fact that she knows psychology is crystal clear in her writing, for she knows how exactly to appeal to our psyche. There is a very human touch to every story, because each one of it talks about the relationships we all have.
I loved the book and read it from cover to cover and very soon will read it again. I really hope Sumana decides to write some more.
December 19, 2016
Encounters by Sumana Khan – Book Review
To start with I loved the cover design, the title and the blurb. The blurb promises a potpourri of stories with different themes. I loved the quality of the book cover and paper; so I was interested to read further.
Disclaimer: Received the paperback version of this book from the publishers – cinnamon teal, via The Book Club, in return for a honest review.
There are 5 stories, each of a kind!
The first story pulled me into the story, as in, I loved the language, diction and vocabulary instantly. It was beautifully penned, revealing the character step by step – for those who have issues with revealing type of writing should probably read this story. Being 26 and single, I could so relate to Ratna, though having accomplished something mighty but having tagged as a burden for not being married is so on par with what any Indian woman would face. Though the story is bit on the predictable table, I loved the way it was written. Sumana as a writer wins here!
Reminiscence – the second story; is again a good one with minute details that would make one smile.
Happiness clinic – I so love this title; and so was the story. A family tale, it indeed injects fear and makes you introspect.
Best friends forever – A story that is totally different, looks like Sumana’s psychology degree played its part pretty well. A tale on hallucination and super natural stuff! A good read.
Am not a short story reader, but given the language peppered, this collection is on par with excellence. And, given that this is my first read of Sumana’s – am looking forward for more!
Rating: 3.5/5
To start with I loved the cover design, the title and the blurb. The blurb promises a potpourri of stories with different themes. I loved the quality of the book cover and paper; so I was interested to read further.
Disclaimer: Received the paperback version of this book from the publishers – cinnamon teal, via The Book Club, in return for a honest review.
There are 5 stories, each of a kind!
The first story pulled me into the story, as in, I loved the language, diction and vocabulary instantly. It was beautifully penned, revealing the character step by step – for those who have issues with revealing type of writing should probably read this story. Being 26 and single, I could so relate to Ratna, though having accomplished something mighty but having tagged as a burden for not being married is so on par with what any Indian woman would face. Though the story is bit on the predictable table, I loved the way it was written. Sumana as a writer wins here!
Reminiscence – the second story; is again a good one with minute details that would make one smile.
Happiness clinic – I so love this title; and so was the story. A family tale, it indeed injects fear and makes you introspect.
Best friends forever – A story that is totally different, looks like Sumana’s psychology degree played its part pretty well. A tale on hallucination and super natural stuff! A good read.
Am not a short story reader, but given the language peppered, this collection is on par with excellence. And, given that this is my first read of Sumana’s – am looking forward for more!
Rating: 3.5/5
May 12, 2016
Honestly, I cannot seem to find too many words that can describe what I feel about this book. The stories are simple and yet so powerful. For every story, I thought the beginning was so mundane and everyday. And then one moment, just one moment, that one moment which changes everything. Like a smooth curve in a smooth road. It isn’t something that takes you by surprise; you’ve infact been expecting it. So you aren’t like shaken up or surprised; you’re not jumping out of your seat. But there is no denying the chills that crawl in to the silence that surrounds you when are reading this book.
This is the first time I’m reading something by Sumana and I can say that I loved it. The stories have a very earthy and rustic feeling about them. I could feel that pull of the words; every time I read this one I could actually like I was being transported to another world-Sumana’s world, where her characters lived.
I think it is in stories like these where the magic of words comes into play. You know what’s going to happen, you know what’s normal and what isn’t. And yet when you reach that revealing point in the the story, you cannot but help the cold of the mystery envelope you. Sumana has weaved that magic beautifully!
The vocabulary used is simple and beautiful. The grammar is flawless. The prose flows at just the right pace in most places, dragging only a little in the remaining few. All in all, a reader’s delight.
This is the first time I’m reading something by Sumana and I can say that I loved it. The stories have a very earthy and rustic feeling about them. I could feel that pull of the words; every time I read this one I could actually like I was being transported to another world-Sumana’s world, where her characters lived.
I think it is in stories like these where the magic of words comes into play. You know what’s going to happen, you know what’s normal and what isn’t. And yet when you reach that revealing point in the the story, you cannot but help the cold of the mystery envelope you. Sumana has weaved that magic beautifully!
The vocabulary used is simple and beautiful. The grammar is flawless. The prose flows at just the right pace in most places, dragging only a little in the remaining few. All in all, a reader’s delight.
May 5, 2016
Disclaimer: I was lucky enough to receive a paperback version of this book from the publishers, via The Book Club, in return for my honest review.
I have read Sumana Khan’s first book The Revenge of Kaivalya and loved it. I am not a fan of the horror genre, but so enjoyed this book despite that. So, when her second book came up for blog tour with #TBC, I immediately signed up for the review. And am I glad!
We face desperate moments in our lives. We, as people, or sometimes even the spirits that have not found their way back home. Is it possible for this desperation to boomerang into the universe that brings back messages in different forms, solving our issues for us? It seems so when your read these five short stories or should I say “novellas” by Sumana Khan. When the mind seeks a solution, it sometimes comes in a supernatural form. And why not? Just because logic does not accept it, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist.
Yes, I am completely fascinated by this premise, especially when it brings forth positive solutions.
First Love
Dr. Ratnaveni is thirty-two. She’s highly educated, has a successful career and is regarded with great respect as the youngest head of Forensics in the whole country. On her birthday, instead of exulting in this, her parents are terribly upset that she’s still single. They are ashamed that their only daughter is not married and given them grandchildren. Does it matter that she’s happy? Not at all! The bottom line is that they are ashamed of her.
“I was Dr. Ratnaveni Madhehalli Kamat, university gold medallist, India’s youngest award-winning forensic analyst, the only woman to have access to the country’s most secure crime databases-and all my parents saw in me was failure”.
My heart wept for Ratna. But then, there are so many like her living amidst us.
“They see me as a dishonourable, incomplete entity, who must be lassoed viciously, brought back into the pen, made complete by a man and a life-role that is deemed honourable for a woman.”
“Was I just a pair of breasts and a womb to everyone?”
Powerful words, hard hitting. And Vrka comes into Ratna’s life. Who’s he? Is he for real or is he a figment of her imagination? Is he a human being or a wolf or an alien? Whatever he was, I fell in love with him, as did Ratna.
This is the best story of this lot and gave me such goose-bump moments that it took me a while to begin reading the next one.
The Storyteller
This one is about Murugan Sundaresan’s story narrated in first person. Murugan is an agarbatti salesman who’s doing very well career wise. On this Christmas day, after the heavy sales at Velankanni church, he rides his two-wheeler back home to Mayiladuthurai. Every detour he makes, he lands up in heavy traffic. In a fit of desperation, Murugan decides to take a rarely travelled route via Karaikkal. The road is quite dilapidated and is the reason for lack of traffic.
But it looks like fate has ordained him to take that particular route on that Christmas day. It’s late in the night when he meets Raman Durai (the storyteller) sitting all by himself outside a shanty. Raman stops Murugan and asks him to stay a while to listen to his story – the story of Thirukadal – while they have dinner.
Murugan stays back to listen, fascinated by the story Raman weaves...
The tsunami scene has been described so perfectly. I heard a friend of mine talk about the sea going way back not far from her house. The fate of the locals and the way Raman works at bringing peace with Murugan’s help touched my heart. Beautiful!
Reminiscence
This is Raghavan’s story and is a simple and sweet one. He’s retired and is living in a small house along with his wife Radha. He’s lying on his bed ruminating about his married life over thirty-five years and what a wonderful and thrifty wife he has...
Well written and good story.
Happiness Clinic
Sheshadri has retired from his 45-year-old job as an accountant and is at home. He’s sick and tired of the suggestions given by his family and friends on how he could improve his life. Slowly, but steadily, his temper blows out of control until one day, he shames himself and his near & dear by shouting at everyone in a marriage hall.
Shaken, he leaves the hall all by himself, to walk back home. Because of the sudden torrential rain, Sheshadri is forced to take shelter under an awning of an old, dilapidated building. It’s the call of fate, of course. That’s where he meets his namesake, Dr. Sheshadri, a psychiatrist who runs Happiness Clinic. It’s the first time Sheshadri is able to connect with another human being (?). Read the story to find out how his life is transformed.
I loved this one and could absolutely relate to it.
Best Friends Forever
This is the story of Prerna and her best friend Alice. Something is wrong with Prerna AKA Pammi and her parents are upset. She used to be ill as a kid because of the trauma she suffered at her grandmother’s hands. But later, she had healed. But it looked like the problem has come back after seventeen years when Prerna faints at her place of work.
Who is Alice? Is she a hallucination or is she for real? Will Dr. Srinidhi be able to help Prerna?
I don’t want to say more to avoid giving out spoilers. But this is another one that brought out the goose-bumps in me.
A lovely set of stories by Sumana Khan. If you like to read about the supernatural, then DON’T MISS this one.
After at least a decade, I managed to finish reading a book at one sitting. Need I say more!
I have read Sumana Khan’s first book The Revenge of Kaivalya and loved it. I am not a fan of the horror genre, but so enjoyed this book despite that. So, when her second book came up for blog tour with #TBC, I immediately signed up for the review. And am I glad!
We face desperate moments in our lives. We, as people, or sometimes even the spirits that have not found their way back home. Is it possible for this desperation to boomerang into the universe that brings back messages in different forms, solving our issues for us? It seems so when your read these five short stories or should I say “novellas” by Sumana Khan. When the mind seeks a solution, it sometimes comes in a supernatural form. And why not? Just because logic does not accept it, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist.
Yes, I am completely fascinated by this premise, especially when it brings forth positive solutions.
First Love
Dr. Ratnaveni is thirty-two. She’s highly educated, has a successful career and is regarded with great respect as the youngest head of Forensics in the whole country. On her birthday, instead of exulting in this, her parents are terribly upset that she’s still single. They are ashamed that their only daughter is not married and given them grandchildren. Does it matter that she’s happy? Not at all! The bottom line is that they are ashamed of her.
“I was Dr. Ratnaveni Madhehalli Kamat, university gold medallist, India’s youngest award-winning forensic analyst, the only woman to have access to the country’s most secure crime databases-and all my parents saw in me was failure”.
My heart wept for Ratna. But then, there are so many like her living amidst us.
“They see me as a dishonourable, incomplete entity, who must be lassoed viciously, brought back into the pen, made complete by a man and a life-role that is deemed honourable for a woman.”
“Was I just a pair of breasts and a womb to everyone?”
Powerful words, hard hitting. And Vrka comes into Ratna’s life. Who’s he? Is he for real or is he a figment of her imagination? Is he a human being or a wolf or an alien? Whatever he was, I fell in love with him, as did Ratna.
This is the best story of this lot and gave me such goose-bump moments that it took me a while to begin reading the next one.
The Storyteller
This one is about Murugan Sundaresan’s story narrated in first person. Murugan is an agarbatti salesman who’s doing very well career wise. On this Christmas day, after the heavy sales at Velankanni church, he rides his two-wheeler back home to Mayiladuthurai. Every detour he makes, he lands up in heavy traffic. In a fit of desperation, Murugan decides to take a rarely travelled route via Karaikkal. The road is quite dilapidated and is the reason for lack of traffic.
But it looks like fate has ordained him to take that particular route on that Christmas day. It’s late in the night when he meets Raman Durai (the storyteller) sitting all by himself outside a shanty. Raman stops Murugan and asks him to stay a while to listen to his story – the story of Thirukadal – while they have dinner.
Murugan stays back to listen, fascinated by the story Raman weaves...
The tsunami scene has been described so perfectly. I heard a friend of mine talk about the sea going way back not far from her house. The fate of the locals and the way Raman works at bringing peace with Murugan’s help touched my heart. Beautiful!
Reminiscence
This is Raghavan’s story and is a simple and sweet one. He’s retired and is living in a small house along with his wife Radha. He’s lying on his bed ruminating about his married life over thirty-five years and what a wonderful and thrifty wife he has...
Well written and good story.
Happiness Clinic
Sheshadri has retired from his 45-year-old job as an accountant and is at home. He’s sick and tired of the suggestions given by his family and friends on how he could improve his life. Slowly, but steadily, his temper blows out of control until one day, he shames himself and his near & dear by shouting at everyone in a marriage hall.
Shaken, he leaves the hall all by himself, to walk back home. Because of the sudden torrential rain, Sheshadri is forced to take shelter under an awning of an old, dilapidated building. It’s the call of fate, of course. That’s where he meets his namesake, Dr. Sheshadri, a psychiatrist who runs Happiness Clinic. It’s the first time Sheshadri is able to connect with another human being (?). Read the story to find out how his life is transformed.
I loved this one and could absolutely relate to it.
Best Friends Forever
This is the story of Prerna and her best friend Alice. Something is wrong with Prerna AKA Pammi and her parents are upset. She used to be ill as a kid because of the trauma she suffered at her grandmother’s hands. But later, she had healed. But it looked like the problem has come back after seventeen years when Prerna faints at her place of work.
Who is Alice? Is she a hallucination or is she for real? Will Dr. Srinidhi be able to help Prerna?
I don’t want to say more to avoid giving out spoilers. But this is another one that brought out the goose-bumps in me.
A lovely set of stories by Sumana Khan. If you like to read about the supernatural, then DON’T MISS this one.
After at least a decade, I managed to finish reading a book at one sitting. Need I say more!
May 10, 2016
Sumana’s books are a sensory treat. Having read The Revenge of Kaivalya, my expectations were high with Encounters and I was not disappointed. In fact my daughter and me were fighting to read this book first.
FIRST LOVE is about a 32-year-old India’s youngest award winning forensic analyst, Dr. Ratnaveni. This story emphasizes the fact that your education, professional qualification and social standing does not mean a thing if you are not married ‘at the right age,’ the typical mindset of the middle class parents in India.
Ratna, unknowingly falls in love with Vrka – a myth, an animal or the creation of her hallucinating mind!
Ratna, after her graduation is engaged to be married to Surya, who stays abroad and is well to do only in terms of money but as a person he is a typical male who has a pervert satisfaction to have found a virgin bride for himself which actually arouses him.
This story is a fast paced thriller and even in the end we are groping for answers whether it is a fantasy or the projection of Ratna’s hallucination.
Some words that touched me the most –
“My truth? My parents perceive me as an extra piece of luggage that must be given away. On account of my gender.”
“Not once had anyone tried to understand how important this was to me. But I was not surprised. I had learnt to accept this passive sidelining from a very young age. I had also learnt to be resourceful-to make the best movements possible with my shackles on.”
Isn’t this the truth of almost all the females in our country?
THE STORYTELLER had me spellbound. If not for the introduction of the granite bench at the beginning of the story, I would not have guessed the outcome. It is so engrossing that I too was carried along with the tsunami of emotions. It is like one of those ghost stories that we all heard from some elder in the family as kids. Only that you will not believe as to who the storyteller is!
“I’m an agarbatti salesman. I know it does not sound very…what do you say...prestigious. Boss, let me tell you one thing – your software – geeftware, finance – ginance, everything can do a Titanic.” This made me laugh…the simplicity and authenticity of the language.
REMINISCENCE is such a sweet love story between an elderly couple. It is a story about the little pleasures of life, of important milestones and of memories attached to things and how we cling to them. The story reminds us of a time when even neighbours were family and everyone celebrated and rejoiced with each other and also mourned and helped each other as their own.
“You can afford many curtains. But this saree was gifted by Deepu. He bought it with his first pay, remember? How can I throw it away? You had bought that bangle set to match the saree? So many good memories no?”
This was how we attached value to things long after they had served their purpose. Coming from a background like this, I can easily identify with the characters and story. So what is about this story? Don’t let the narrator surprise you.
HAPPINESS CLINIC is about an elderly gentleman Sheshadri who has retired from work and is trying to figure out the life and people around him and hopelessly failing to do so. He did have his own plans as to how he would spend his time after retirement but he did not have any idea about what his wife or the immediate family wanted to follow his plan. Now after two years of retirement he was reduced to an irritating snob. And then he is introduced to his true self when he comes across the Happiness Clinic and meets his namesake or you can say his alter ego.
What follows is the realization that his wife Sharada is well-educated person who has an immense potential in teaching and changing the course of lives of the students whom she taught.
BEST FRIENDS FOREVER is a para-normal experience with a dash of history thrown in. Prerna is a bubbly young girl whose childhood had been greatly scared by the abuse from her grandmother. And it was Alice who becomes Prerna’s best friend and solace at that time. Is Alice real or is she just an imaginary friend of Prerna? To find out, read this story that is an emotional roller coaster ride.
What makes Sumana’s stories endearing is the usage of colloquial language. It blends in seamlessly into the dialogues that you can only smile at their usage.
Here are some examples -
“Pammi and withdrawn? Never. Once she starts talking , uff! You will bow before her and beg for one minute’s silence. She has so many friends…always they want Pammi. Movie means Pammi…wedding means Pammi…”
“Lot of people worked in the Karaikal port from all these areas. So heavy traffic. The distance is just tonty…tonty-five kilometres. But the buses would stop for every waving hand, stretching the forty-minute journey to one and half hours.”
Just pick up the book and read it…totally worth it!
June 14, 2016
I have read Sumana’s first book, The Revenge of Kaivalya, a paranormal thriller and had enjoyed reading it. When, I got an opportunity to read her second book, Encounters, I grabbled it with both hands. And am I glad that I picked it up?
Encounters is based on paranormal – fantasy fiction theme and is collection of 5 short stories. Each of these stories are written in the author’s incredibly impressive style which is so very captivating. Right from the stories which had some amazing surprise endings to the characters, the narrative, the language, the editing, Encounters has it all right, thus making it a delightful read.
‘First Love’ is a story that many can relate to. It’s about a woman who is an achiever in her chosen field of forensic science, yet struggles to find peace and respect from her family because she is 32 and unmarried. She finds love, comfort and support in a mysterious and supernatural being. Is that supernatural being real or is just her figment of imagination? This one is one thrilling and fascinating story.
‘The Storyteller’ gave me goose flesh! An agarbatti salesman finds himself late in the evening in a shanty on a deserted road. A man narrates the story of a village that was wiped away by the tsunami. In the morning, the salesman finds himself all alone with no trace of the shanty or the man. Who was the storyteller and why did he share his story with the salesman? Well, you need to read this one to feel dazed and amazed.
‘Reminiscence’ is a four decades long journey of Radha and Raghavan as a couple. The story gives a peek into the life of this middle class family and their struggles and triumphs. A regular story but with an ending that will truly surprise you.
‘Happiness Clinic’ is the journey of an old man who finds himself lost, beaten and defeated after his retirement. He meets a doctor at a Happiness Clinic who helps him change his outlook towards life only to find something that leaves him gasping for breath. Apart from the mysterious twist, what I also liked about ‘Happiness Clinic’ is that it gives a lot to think and chew on too, to make a life that is remarkable, positive and happy not only for ourselves but even for those around us.
‘Best Friends Forever’ is my favourite story from this book from the paranormal chills and thrills point of view. This is an intriguing and spellbinding of a young girl Prerna who due to some scarring episodes in her childhood finds solace in the company of the spirit of Alice who died years ago. When her parents take her to consult Dr Srinidhi, a psychiatrist, he realizes that this is not a simple case. Is he able to help Prerna and how does he do that? You certainly need to read this story to get some real spooky, eerie and spine chilling thrills.
The entire collection of stories in Encounters make for a very entertaining and interesting read. The characters and their lives are realistic and the author’s expression make them come alive in front of you. The stories which deal with a few social issues that make you think and ponder on them too.
Encounters is highly recommended for a quick, entertaining and thrilling read.
http://shilpaagarg.com/2016/06/encoun...
Encounters is based on paranormal – fantasy fiction theme and is collection of 5 short stories. Each of these stories are written in the author’s incredibly impressive style which is so very captivating. Right from the stories which had some amazing surprise endings to the characters, the narrative, the language, the editing, Encounters has it all right, thus making it a delightful read.
‘First Love’ is a story that many can relate to. It’s about a woman who is an achiever in her chosen field of forensic science, yet struggles to find peace and respect from her family because she is 32 and unmarried. She finds love, comfort and support in a mysterious and supernatural being. Is that supernatural being real or is just her figment of imagination? This one is one thrilling and fascinating story.
‘The Storyteller’ gave me goose flesh! An agarbatti salesman finds himself late in the evening in a shanty on a deserted road. A man narrates the story of a village that was wiped away by the tsunami. In the morning, the salesman finds himself all alone with no trace of the shanty or the man. Who was the storyteller and why did he share his story with the salesman? Well, you need to read this one to feel dazed and amazed.
‘Reminiscence’ is a four decades long journey of Radha and Raghavan as a couple. The story gives a peek into the life of this middle class family and their struggles and triumphs. A regular story but with an ending that will truly surprise you.
‘Happiness Clinic’ is the journey of an old man who finds himself lost, beaten and defeated after his retirement. He meets a doctor at a Happiness Clinic who helps him change his outlook towards life only to find something that leaves him gasping for breath. Apart from the mysterious twist, what I also liked about ‘Happiness Clinic’ is that it gives a lot to think and chew on too, to make a life that is remarkable, positive and happy not only for ourselves but even for those around us.
‘Best Friends Forever’ is my favourite story from this book from the paranormal chills and thrills point of view. This is an intriguing and spellbinding of a young girl Prerna who due to some scarring episodes in her childhood finds solace in the company of the spirit of Alice who died years ago. When her parents take her to consult Dr Srinidhi, a psychiatrist, he realizes that this is not a simple case. Is he able to help Prerna and how does he do that? You certainly need to read this story to get some real spooky, eerie and spine chilling thrills.
The entire collection of stories in Encounters make for a very entertaining and interesting read. The characters and their lives are realistic and the author’s expression make them come alive in front of you. The stories which deal with a few social issues that make you think and ponder on them too.
Encounters is highly recommended for a quick, entertaining and thrilling read.
http://shilpaagarg.com/2016/06/encoun...
May 16, 2016
Note : This review is up in my blog Book and Ink
I seem to be on a short story reading spree. I don’t regret it one bit. When I like what I’m reading, there isn’t a need to complain at all. So diving straight in,
Stories
There were 5 stories in the collection with all stories being paranormal in nature.
The First story – First Love - For someone sailing on the same boat, I could relate with the story a lot. The climax though was predictable, nevertheless it was heart breaking.
The Second story – The Story Teller–Having seen what Tsunami was capable of, this story hit home. Emotions of loss hit home for me.
The Third Story – Reminiscence – Mundane tasks couldn’t have been narrated possibly in a better manner.
The Fourth story – Happiness Clinic - Aptly titled. The story was just more than a tale of a man finding his way out from depression, it was the tale of how the life of a woman is impacted post marriage.
The Last Story – Best Friends Forever – My personal favourite. Hallucinations and supernatural elements, when mixed, result in something explosively thrilling. This story was just that – it was simply too good. The played her strength here – psychology.
Writing and Characterization
With a fabulous vocabulary and brilliant narration, this book was one treat to read. The phrasing was perfect and conveyed all the right emotions. However, the characterization is debate worthy. Raghavan’s character in third story seemed so well developed with Prerna’s character in the last story lacked finesse. In sense, I felt the writer focused more on Alice’s character instead of that of Prerna’s. This might be justified due to the very story line of that story.
MY SAY: Neatly packaged book. Must read for paranormal fiction lovers
I seem to be on a short story reading spree. I don’t regret it one bit. When I like what I’m reading, there isn’t a need to complain at all. So diving straight in,
Stories
There were 5 stories in the collection with all stories being paranormal in nature.
The First story – First Love - For someone sailing on the same boat, I could relate with the story a lot. The climax though was predictable, nevertheless it was heart breaking.
The Second story – The Story Teller–Having seen what Tsunami was capable of, this story hit home. Emotions of loss hit home for me.
The Third Story – Reminiscence – Mundane tasks couldn’t have been narrated possibly in a better manner.
The Fourth story – Happiness Clinic - Aptly titled. The story was just more than a tale of a man finding his way out from depression, it was the tale of how the life of a woman is impacted post marriage.
The Last Story – Best Friends Forever – My personal favourite. Hallucinations and supernatural elements, when mixed, result in something explosively thrilling. This story was just that – it was simply too good. The played her strength here – psychology.
Writing and Characterization
With a fabulous vocabulary and brilliant narration, this book was one treat to read. The phrasing was perfect and conveyed all the right emotions. However, the characterization is debate worthy. Raghavan’s character in third story seemed so well developed with Prerna’s character in the last story lacked finesse. In sense, I felt the writer focused more on Alice’s character instead of that of Prerna’s. This might be justified due to the very story line of that story.
MY SAY: Neatly packaged book. Must read for paranormal fiction lovers
May 18, 2016
Encounters is a book with five stories that will keep you engrossed while making you ponder over the ending. Each of them has a distinct flavor to it, and I should commend the author, Sumana for being able to keep that thin line of balance under the same theme--Encounter!
First Love takes you on the coaster wheel of life of a woman who is independent, well established but still stressed out by her parents and society cause she is single. The drama unfolds after that, and it is gripping yet sensuous until the end. I absolutely loved the angle to this story.
The Storyteller is a meetup of a typical agarbatti salesperson who encounters a handful of people running an NGO, and the impact of those footsteps trailing along him when he cleans the bench will give you goosebumps!
Reminiscence is an absolutely touching story of a middle class retired family giving a peep into his daily life. The narration is earthy giving a clear picture of all the scenes thus, making the reader feel the depth of each enjoyment, sorrow, and socializing.
Read more @ http://abracabadra.blogspot.com/2016/...
First Love takes you on the coaster wheel of life of a woman who is independent, well established but still stressed out by her parents and society cause she is single. The drama unfolds after that, and it is gripping yet sensuous until the end. I absolutely loved the angle to this story.
The Storyteller is a meetup of a typical agarbatti salesperson who encounters a handful of people running an NGO, and the impact of those footsteps trailing along him when he cleans the bench will give you goosebumps!
Reminiscence is an absolutely touching story of a middle class retired family giving a peep into his daily life. The narration is earthy giving a clear picture of all the scenes thus, making the reader feel the depth of each enjoyment, sorrow, and socializing.
Read more @ http://abracabadra.blogspot.com/2016/...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2016
The stories weren’t horrifying, instead they were meaningful. The book can be read again and again and the author has made sure that every reader leaves with something in hand after completing the book. At least that happened to me. I have never seen so much variation in my reading experience ever.
I would really like to form an order according to my liking of the stories which are part of this collection:
1. Best Friends Forever
2. First Love
3. The Storyteller
4. Happiness Clinic
5. Reminiscences
You can read the complete review here -
thesubtlebraiding.blogspot.in/2016/06...
I would really like to form an order according to my liking of the stories which are part of this collection:
1. Best Friends Forever
2. First Love
3. The Storyteller
4. Happiness Clinic
5. Reminiscences
You can read the complete review here -
thesubtlebraiding.blogspot.in/2016/06...
May 9, 2016
This is a collection of stories with a paranormal connection. The book has her usual inimitable writing style that makes her stories an enjoyable read. I am usually not a big fan of regional flavors in writing and have almost always found it quite jarring. But Sumana manages to seamlessly blend a Kannada flavor into her writing that gives a local feel without ruining the flow of the narrative. Overall the language and narrative are excellent as are the descriptions of the people, places and cuisine, making the story a delightful read. You can check out my detailed review here.
http://luciferhouseinc.blogspot.in/20...
http://luciferhouseinc.blogspot.in/20...
May 20, 2016
Collection of stories that linger long after you've read... top notch writing, highly memorable - particularly if your familiar with the two states (Karnataka and Tamil Nadu) where action takes place.. you'll be wishing to visit those places
I could recognize two of them I had read before - one of them was from online short-story competition, which was my first introduction to Sumana's writing
Tagline is aptly chosen, which along with paranormal theme connects the disparate stories..
Here's to hoping I'll get to read more thrilling stuff from this author in coming years :)
I could recognize two of them I had read before - one of them was from online short-story competition, which was my first introduction to Sumana's writing
Tagline is aptly chosen, which along with paranormal theme connects the disparate stories..
Here's to hoping I'll get to read more thrilling stuff from this author in coming years :)
May 17, 2016
'Encounters' Someone's Always Waiting by Sumana Khan is a series of anecdotes that has some deeper meaning. It is a collection of five fantabulous stories that will give a solitudary peace. Sumana has a quality of showing mysticity and suspense in her work just like the poetry of S.T. Coleridge. I know this is a short story or rather say novellas or maybe novelettes which can't be compared to a poet but what I feel is, it has an essence of mystery in it.
https://captivatingmode.wordpress.com...…
https://captivatingmode.wordpress.com...…
June 7, 2016
Those who have read Sumana Khan's The Revenge of Kailavya will understand when I say that this is one book I will pick up without even thinking or reading the blurb. I was a bit surprised that she went for an anthology. Her description in describing scenes always has proven picturesque and more than often eerie.
First Love...
The story of Ratna is one of the most powerful stories in this anthology. Mysterious and a fantasy where the childhood love of Ratna is an illusion, or so everyone thinks, including Ratna herself. But her love prevents her from exploring other relationships. Would it take a dangerous turn and where will it lead to?
The Characters of Ratna and Vrka are very strong. Vrka the all powerful and Ratna one with a scientific mind. One of those kinds of story where you wish it should have happened to you but never wish the same for a loved one to go through. Enticing and exciting.
The Storyteller
A very creepy story. Have you ever heard the old men sitting around bonfires telling each other ghost stories in remote villages? Steeped in our culture and with a moralistic tinge. Just enough to make the end seem justified.
The Storyteller is one such story which would give you shivers in a dark night. A story of an entire villagewiped away in the Tsunami, waiting to be heard . Then who is the storyteller?
Reminiscence
A couple who has loved and been loved. Their journey in this life is coming to a closure. Sounds normal enough. So what is unique about this story? The POV :)
Happiness Clinic
A very sensitive story about a man trying to adjust to a life of retirement. When he is shown a mirror to the life he has led so far. How often we go by life without even stopping to think about those who have been travelling with us in this journey of life. Happiness Clinic is just that - the mirror to our soul. A man who has retired and wants only to do one thing- spend his days with his wife. But in all the years that she has been his silent partner, she had adorned the role of a mother, sister and many other such relations which complete our life. So when Sheshadri meets Sheshadri,[not a typo] his life takes a turn. For the first time he realizes he has one more job to finish - let Sharada play the most important role of her own life - that of a woman.
Best friends forever
Gripping. Cinematic. The story of a girl possessed and how she gets Dr. Srinidhi involved in this whole story. This story has some serious goosebumps moments.
An emotional roller-coaster ride
Every story has a mixture of psychological or paranormal angle. Ms. Khan has studied psychology which is apparent in her creation of characters. In just 5 short stories she has dissected many human relationships. I loved the way Ms. Khan has portrayed characters from every age group. From a retired man to a young doctor – each makes the reader realize how important every person is in our life.
One of my favorite was the relationship between Sheshadri and his wife Sharda. The beauty in the exploration of relationship between a husband-and-wife and how the husband realizes that even though if he has never abused his wife that does not make him a perfect husband. This realization along with his growth shows the strength of the author's writing.
Attack on the five senses
Ms. Khan uses all the senses in her scenes and portrayal of her characters. Even the sixth sense. :) Words like
'....her mouth felt like Velcro.'
attacks your sense of touch and feel while,
Sweat collected below my armpits and spread in sickly wetness'
attacks your sense of propriety :D But when you read it in the context of the story you can see the characters going through an emotional turmoil.
Added to that is Ms.Khan's liberal splattering of humor across many tense situations. As the seriousness mounts up and can be a bit tedious for the readers, she has injected the right amount of humor to cut through the monotony of overuse of [my] gray cells.
Can bet you your underwear that I will have ...." Mark the word your :)
"Lot of old buffoons laughing like morons early in the morning. It made me surlier."
OK even I have a weird sense of humor and found the above line really rib tickling.
Reason for rating...
http://www.tbcblogtours.com/tbc-blog/...
First Love...
The story of Ratna is one of the most powerful stories in this anthology. Mysterious and a fantasy where the childhood love of Ratna is an illusion, or so everyone thinks, including Ratna herself. But her love prevents her from exploring other relationships. Would it take a dangerous turn and where will it lead to?
The Characters of Ratna and Vrka are very strong. Vrka the all powerful and Ratna one with a scientific mind. One of those kinds of story where you wish it should have happened to you but never wish the same for a loved one to go through. Enticing and exciting.
The Storyteller
A very creepy story. Have you ever heard the old men sitting around bonfires telling each other ghost stories in remote villages? Steeped in our culture and with a moralistic tinge. Just enough to make the end seem justified.
The Storyteller is one such story which would give you shivers in a dark night. A story of an entire villagewiped away in the Tsunami, waiting to be heard . Then who is the storyteller?
Reminiscence
A couple who has loved and been loved. Their journey in this life is coming to a closure. Sounds normal enough. So what is unique about this story? The POV :)
Happiness Clinic
A very sensitive story about a man trying to adjust to a life of retirement. When he is shown a mirror to the life he has led so far. How often we go by life without even stopping to think about those who have been travelling with us in this journey of life. Happiness Clinic is just that - the mirror to our soul. A man who has retired and wants only to do one thing- spend his days with his wife. But in all the years that she has been his silent partner, she had adorned the role of a mother, sister and many other such relations which complete our life. So when Sheshadri meets Sheshadri,[not a typo] his life takes a turn. For the first time he realizes he has one more job to finish - let Sharada play the most important role of her own life - that of a woman.
Best friends forever
Gripping. Cinematic. The story of a girl possessed and how she gets Dr. Srinidhi involved in this whole story. This story has some serious goosebumps moments.
An emotional roller-coaster ride
Every story has a mixture of psychological or paranormal angle. Ms. Khan has studied psychology which is apparent in her creation of characters. In just 5 short stories she has dissected many human relationships. I loved the way Ms. Khan has portrayed characters from every age group. From a retired man to a young doctor – each makes the reader realize how important every person is in our life.
One of my favorite was the relationship between Sheshadri and his wife Sharda. The beauty in the exploration of relationship between a husband-and-wife and how the husband realizes that even though if he has never abused his wife that does not make him a perfect husband. This realization along with his growth shows the strength of the author's writing.
Attack on the five senses
Ms. Khan uses all the senses in her scenes and portrayal of her characters. Even the sixth sense. :) Words like
'....her mouth felt like Velcro.'
attacks your sense of touch and feel while,
Sweat collected below my armpits and spread in sickly wetness'
attacks your sense of propriety :D But when you read it in the context of the story you can see the characters going through an emotional turmoil.
Added to that is Ms.Khan's liberal splattering of humor across many tense situations. As the seriousness mounts up and can be a bit tedious for the readers, she has injected the right amount of humor to cut through the monotony of overuse of [my] gray cells.
Can bet you your underwear that I will have ...." Mark the word your :)
"Lot of old buffoons laughing like morons early in the morning. It made me surlier."
OK even I have a weird sense of humor and found the above line really rib tickling.
Reason for rating...
http://www.tbcblogtours.com/tbc-blog/...
July 15, 2016
Encounters – Someone’s Always Waiting has five stories and when you finish the last one you want more, much more than what the author has shared. It is like a peek into the beautiful garden and you have just had a glimpse. Sumana writes and lays it all out for the reader to enjoy. The stories are simple enough with a hint of paranormal but to call them simple is to deceive the reader. I was not too keen to read this book fearing it to be horror but I am glad I picked it up on a friend’s recommendation.
Sumana spins everyday tales that remind us that nothing is normal and nothing is what it seems. A hidden layer with a surprise awaits us at each story. Suspenseful with a twist each story whets your appetite for more and they are all as different as can be. Even though all the stories are good, The Storyteller and Best Friends Forever really spoke to me. The stories have such a strong emotional element along with the drama and of course the paranormal that I felt I was a part of the stories.
“It caused a flare of most extraordinary hallucinations, changing the course of my life.”
First Love is about a forensic scientist and her first love. The mind-blowing mix of science and paranormal- two so divergent areas yet mixed effortlessly by the author. Vrka with his calm demeanour pulled me in as I wanted to know more about him and Ratna was an unlikely catalyst. She accepts and embraces them making her stronger as the story unfolds. I like the fact that many stories covered a few decades as the characters changed with the story.
The Storyteller with its bittersweet tale and the enigmatic storyteller had me turning the pages quickly. I became engrossed in the lives within the story. It was touching and made me feel so powerless in the grand scheme of things.
Reminiscence was the smallest story of the book but that did not stop it from shining. Life is often lived in regret and yet there are times when even the regret is too late. I was so involved in the lives of Raghavan and Radha that I too felt the silent echoes of 'what if'..
Happiness Clinic read like the ramblings of a grumpy man but the power of mind – good or bad is what guides us was what it actually was conveying. A second look, a bit of introspection and a bag full of love can indeed brighten up any day.
Best Friends Forever with its strong story and even stronger narration gave me goose bumps and I could not stop reading it. For me it was the best story of the book, I shed a silent tear for Alice . The words, descriptions and the conversations of the story so hauntingly real. A masterpiece indeed.
“I saw her then. Alice. Her face so angelic, so afraid and lonely. She let go.”
(I received a copy of the book from Cinnamon Teal Publishing via The Book Club the review is my honest opinion.)
Sumana spins everyday tales that remind us that nothing is normal and nothing is what it seems. A hidden layer with a surprise awaits us at each story. Suspenseful with a twist each story whets your appetite for more and they are all as different as can be. Even though all the stories are good, The Storyteller and Best Friends Forever really spoke to me. The stories have such a strong emotional element along with the drama and of course the paranormal that I felt I was a part of the stories.
“It caused a flare of most extraordinary hallucinations, changing the course of my life.”
First Love is about a forensic scientist and her first love. The mind-blowing mix of science and paranormal- two so divergent areas yet mixed effortlessly by the author. Vrka with his calm demeanour pulled me in as I wanted to know more about him and Ratna was an unlikely catalyst. She accepts and embraces them making her stronger as the story unfolds. I like the fact that many stories covered a few decades as the characters changed with the story.
The Storyteller with its bittersweet tale and the enigmatic storyteller had me turning the pages quickly. I became engrossed in the lives within the story. It was touching and made me feel so powerless in the grand scheme of things.
Reminiscence was the smallest story of the book but that did not stop it from shining. Life is often lived in regret and yet there are times when even the regret is too late. I was so involved in the lives of Raghavan and Radha that I too felt the silent echoes of 'what if'..
Happiness Clinic read like the ramblings of a grumpy man but the power of mind – good or bad is what guides us was what it actually was conveying. A second look, a bit of introspection and a bag full of love can indeed brighten up any day.
Best Friends Forever with its strong story and even stronger narration gave me goose bumps and I could not stop reading it. For me it was the best story of the book, I shed a silent tear for Alice . The words, descriptions and the conversations of the story so hauntingly real. A masterpiece indeed.
“I saw her then. Alice. Her face so angelic, so afraid and lonely. She let go.”
(I received a copy of the book from Cinnamon Teal Publishing via The Book Club the review is my honest opinion.)
June 20, 2016
There are five short stories.One is about a forensic scientist, who feels snug & secure with a strange tourist ,who keeps changing forms .Or is it, that, it is her own imagination, gone wild ? Then ,there is an accountant ,who has retired .He rediscovers himself & thereby rekindles the life of his wife, whom he loves very much & how ! There is a incense stick salesman, who wanders off & comes back with a tale of a town, that has disappeared .And he wants to do something to recall, that lost community.What does he do ? Does he succeed ? And most important of all ,did that community ever exist ? And why did he, only imagine all that ? And there is a psychiatrist, who has to examine a girl .And as he starts investigating , he knows that, there is something very bizarre .And he realises, that he is getting personally involved with his patient, which should never ever happen.Is he able to bring back his patient to normalcy ? And what happens to him ? What is the strangeness about the case, that he is handling ?
It is laced with humour ," Upma is like concrete.....so heavy on the stomach." And in another ," S.P B wept while singing some words backwards " as " this cassette is damaged " .Yet another one, which I am sure all of us feel at some time or perhaps most of the times ...." I don't even know how we are related ,but he's always there in all the functions..... ."
And she pays tribute to our mothers & grandmothers and perhaps, to majority of the women ,as she writes," ....as with many women , when there are no options at all,they make the best of whatever situation , they are thrust in .They create a a new world ; they generate their own happiness .Generate ,mind you,not find.Their mental imprisonment is the greatest tragedy of our society .Instead of correcting it, we glorify it. That is the second tragedy." Many lumps rose in my throat as I read & reread this.
And to end, her stories made me realise that some casual meetings may change us forever & perhaps for the better !
It is laced with humour ," Upma is like concrete.....so heavy on the stomach." And in another ," S.P B wept while singing some words backwards " as " this cassette is damaged " .Yet another one, which I am sure all of us feel at some time or perhaps most of the times ...." I don't even know how we are related ,but he's always there in all the functions..... ."
And she pays tribute to our mothers & grandmothers and perhaps, to majority of the women ,as she writes," ....as with many women , when there are no options at all,they make the best of whatever situation , they are thrust in .They create a a new world ; they generate their own happiness .Generate ,mind you,not find.Their mental imprisonment is the greatest tragedy of our society .Instead of correcting it, we glorify it. That is the second tragedy." Many lumps rose in my throat as I read & reread this.
And to end, her stories made me realise that some casual meetings may change us forever & perhaps for the better !
June 30, 2016
Very rarely you come across an author, whose creations you are reading for 1st time and you think why I didn’t read her books before?
Sumana, I am falling short of words to praise your work, your talent in writing, the way you kept me hooked till I finished each story is totally mesmerizing.
I received Encounters through The Book Club for an honest review. And I would say I totally loved it. Like in her first story in the book First Love, I fell in love with the writer, the characters, the plot, the cover picture…
First love left me spell bound, The storyteller had me awed, Reminiscence left me with tears in eyes and ache in heart, Happiness clinic left me thinking and last but not the least Best Friends made a permanent place in my heart.
Loved the way Sumana has woven the plots, which leave the reader so engrossed, that I actually imagined myself there, characters playing in front of my eyes. Out of five stories, First Love, Happiness clinic and Best friends touched me a lot.
I read the book twice and both the times it left me short of words, gasping for breath till I reached the end of a story.
Encounters-Someone’s Always Waiting, is a mixture of fantasy fiction, paranormal fiction, personal loss of a close one, natural calamity, finding one’s identity and reason of existence.
Each story is of different genre and it leaves an everlasting mark on readers mind.
My Verdict on Encounters – Someone’s Always Waiting … If you want to enjoy a good engrossing read, Encounters is one you must definitely go for.
Sumana, I am falling short of words to praise your work, your talent in writing, the way you kept me hooked till I finished each story is totally mesmerizing.
I received Encounters through The Book Club for an honest review. And I would say I totally loved it. Like in her first story in the book First Love, I fell in love with the writer, the characters, the plot, the cover picture…
First love left me spell bound, The storyteller had me awed, Reminiscence left me with tears in eyes and ache in heart, Happiness clinic left me thinking and last but not the least Best Friends made a permanent place in my heart.
Loved the way Sumana has woven the plots, which leave the reader so engrossed, that I actually imagined myself there, characters playing in front of my eyes. Out of five stories, First Love, Happiness clinic and Best friends touched me a lot.
I read the book twice and both the times it left me short of words, gasping for breath till I reached the end of a story.
Encounters-Someone’s Always Waiting, is a mixture of fantasy fiction, paranormal fiction, personal loss of a close one, natural calamity, finding one’s identity and reason of existence.
Each story is of different genre and it leaves an everlasting mark on readers mind.
My Verdict on Encounters – Someone’s Always Waiting … If you want to enjoy a good engrossing read, Encounters is one you must definitely go for.
March 12, 2016
Sumana has been my favorite blogger. I immensely enjoyed her first novel - The revenge of Kaivalya.
Encounters consists of 5 stories with a paranormal theme. Sumana creates such vivid scenes from the very first page that the reader is sucked into the stories. All the five stories are beautifully woven, with intricate details, believable characters and goosebumpy endings. It is hard to point at one story as a favorite. This one is a page turner you should not miss if you are a fan of paranormal tales.
Encounters consists of 5 stories with a paranormal theme. Sumana creates such vivid scenes from the very first page that the reader is sucked into the stories. All the five stories are beautifully woven, with intricate details, believable characters and goosebumpy endings. It is hard to point at one story as a favorite. This one is a page turner you should not miss if you are a fan of paranormal tales.
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