Goan Chase: Take Three Mysteries

by Richa Sambhy Mediratta

‘Leave now or pay the price.’

Jai and his friends, Nirvaan and Ayesha, are super excited to be in Goa for their summer holidays. The three youngsters visit Jai’s aunt who lives in a sprawling villa with a private beach.

Just when things appear to be too good to be true, their host narrowly escapes a fatal accident. Much to their distress, ‘accidents’ continue to occur, putting everybody’s lives in danger.

Is there an evil presence in the house? Somebody who wants to harm them? But, why? Jai, Nirvaan, and Ayesha must race against time to solve this mystery before anybody else is harmed.

If that were not enough, they have to battle with their inner demons. Demons that threaten to come in the way of solving the mystery itself. Demons that will only bring them closer to the hunter waiting patiently for the final strike…

Genres: Mystery

122 pages, Paperback

Published October 5, 2016

About the author

I still remember the first story I penned. It was about a magical crystal ball and my very encouraging English teacher had made me read it out loud in front of the whole class. Since I was only six at that time, a block like stage fear didn't exist, and it was all fun and giggles.
Since I started reading and writing at a very young age, I had finished novelettes by the time I was a teenager (they're still my most valuable possessions). By the time I was in college, I was freelancing for various publications and websites. Over the years, I worked as a contributing editor, advertising copywriter, technical writer, and an award-winning instructional designer.
I started my journey as an author by first learning the ropes of writing children and young adult fiction from the Institute of Children’s Literature, United States. As with many authors, success eluded me for long. The turning point came when I was adjudged one of the winners in the nationwide WriteIndia contest, organized by the Times of India group. It was the answer to a question I'd been asking for a long time; it gave me the courage to finally bring the Take Three Mysteries series to life.
Currently, I'm a hands-on mother to my seven-year-old daughter and a corporate consultant. I love connecting with readers and authors! Connect with me on Twitter @RichaWriter, on Instagram @richawriter, or on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/GoanChase. You can also visit my website @ www.richawriter.com.

Reviews

[Vishnu Chevli · Rating 4 out of 5]

What best can happen to you while traveling from Pune to Mumbai? "Goan Chase: Take Three Mysteries" happened to me. This short mystery plugged me so tightly that I didn't know when Borivali stop came. For its genre, the book has done very good job.

The story started with three teenagers' vacation trip to Goa. As blurb mentioned, kids were excited about fun filled holidays. Jai along with his classmates Nirvan and Ayesha went to Jai's aunt Ms. Sheila Walia's beach villa to Goa. Sheila had recently shifted to her maternal house in Goa. Vacation started with the grand party held by Ms. Walia. But holiday converted into a thriller when accidents started taking place in and around the house. Locals considered the Villa cursed. Walias had never taken curse seriously. But after those incidents, rumors of an evil presence in the Villa started materializing into the mindset of Jai's family member. Three friends being considered as losers by others wanted to prove themselves. They started inspecting areas around incident sites. Instead of enjoying their stay, detectives trio took more interest in the curse. To know more about the story, check out the book.

The mystery books required an amount of darkness properly placed in the storyline. Richa has inked good amount of murkiness around Villa and few characters to raise few questions in mind and suspicion towards few characters initially. She did a good job by delivering a nice package of thriller, adventure, and suspense in just 100 pages.

Good points about the book:
- Fast pace
- Realistic characters
- To the point & Steady storyline
- Suspense and thrill component
I found few things predictable, but I am not sure whether other will feel the same. So I don't want to spoil readers experience.

With Goan Chase, Richa has started an interesting series of "Take Three Mysteries". Main characters or I would say our detective trio are not perfect. Keeping series in mind Richa has created them with different traits. Trio's understanding for each other's strength and weakness helped and will help them in their future series to solve various cases. Prologue for next book in series is already given at the end which made me interested in next book already.

Detailed Review link - http://chevusread.blogspot.in/2017/06...

[Archit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crisp and crunchy 122 pages.



For some mysterious reasons, books set in Goa, gain a strong affinity from me. Goa + Mystery, both of these words had already triggered the curiosity neurons in my brain, easy-to-carry attribute of the book, only nourished my already bubbling up enthusiasm and I was full-on ready to have a bumper ride with my seat-belts on. Just the title was enough to make me like it instantly.

Vacation trips don't turn out to be as effortless as they were during the planning. Touring to Goa with friends is itself a dream that can't come true for many. For Jai, Nirvaan and Ayesha, their fate decided to shine bright for them. They were finally having a trip to Goa, all thanks to Jai's aunt who will be hosting them for good with parties and fun.

What they didn't know was that their enjoyment was about to turn into nightmares. In the enthusiasm to solve a profound mystery, their voyage commenced with a bang and it did not halt.

I was reminded of those days when I myself wanted to become a detective. Searching every nook and corner in case something important is missed by my careful and observant eyes, the book kept me vigilant throughout the story.

Prompting before me those days of Secret Seven and Famous Five, Goan Chase proved to be a fun ride. Returning to those times, was a moment-spent-well in itself.

This well-crafted mystery will have a powerful impact on the young minds who seek thriller books. Richa's uncomplicated writing style, fast paced narration, pinpointed description and life-lessons made it all charming.

Its intrigue, suspense and puzzles that must be solved anyhow, had the power to engross both voracious, reluctant and partial readers. Series Junkies can check this one out for freshening up their minds.

Smart, witty and bursting with personality, Goan Chase was an enjoyable adventure. The characters were affable and their flaws equipped them with a realistic look that readers can pretty much relate to.

Although some may predict few parts, but it doesn't come in between a super fun reading experience.

I can't wait to see what mystery installment Richa writes next.

[Ayushi Nair · Rating 4 out of 5]

With every turning page the curiosity to read further keeps on increasing. Narration is cool and engaging through out the book. Pace is perfect neither to slow or fast. Writing of the story is fascinating, and it keeps the reader involved. Plot revolves around three tenagers Jai, Ayesha and Nirwan who together solves the mystery of the house. The book is a pack of drama, thriller, mystery, twist, and suspense.
Looking forward to read next book in the series.

Highly recommended to all.. For a short and fun read.

[Yesha- Books Teacup and Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

*** I won this book in Goodreads Giveaway. Many thanks to author and publisher. ***

I liked the title of the series ‘Take Three Mysteries’ and goes well with the book.
Three mystery solver of the book.
Three incidents or a hint to solve in the book.

The story is written in third person narration, set in Goa, India.

Characters– Jai, Stuttering 14 yr old boy is struggling with his speech problem but is quite a mind-blowing observer. Ayesha is confident and logical person in 3 friends. Nirvaan- tech and photographic expert is good in almost everything. All 3 protagonist are fighting for their weakness, fighting internally. Their support to each other in the book was nicely written and I loved their friendship. Adults in the book were superstitious and they made the book very dramatic.

What I liked? Many mystery readers are interested in only who or why or how. I fall in ‘How’. Even though I know who is the culprit and why the culprit did all this the how culprit did all that and how mystery was solved always draws me more into it and I end up enjoying it.

So it happened with this book. I knew the motive from the first five chapters, of I haven’t guessed the main and final motive of culprit. And almost at 50% of the book when culprit gave the first hint I was half sure that person is culprit but still didn’t excluded the other suspect. I thought the other suspect might be a helper but author surprised me there. And I was impressed by the final twist in last few chapters. Author kept me running round and round till the end because no other clue was given till the climax. And I love this book for that. I was surprised police reached on time. Lol! That never happens most of the time. In short I liked how story progressed and how mystery was unraveled in the book.

I loved the villa on the beach, the family history, and curse. It all added spooky feeling to the story and made it more interesting which I liked. Check out a trailer HERE, it’s really amazing.

The internal battles of our three mystery solvers, Jai, Ayesha and Nirvaan was very nicely written and it also gave a message that we all are abnormal in one way or other way, there is no one like a perfect person, if call it a normal then we all are abnormal. The zeal and excitement these youth gave in the book in solving mystery was remarkable.

Everything sounded well thought and author gave it a realistic touch. The kind of story that you might have heard bits of it in the newspaper. It was not new or unique story but definitely interesting one.

Why 4.5? There were very less suspects so it was easier to solve the mystery plus as I said culprit himself/herself gave the hint with label “I’m culprit” at one point.

More importantly I want to read more, more from the author with more suspects and longer story. 😉
Overall, it’s short, gripping, fast paced book. I was flying through pages and never stopped to write notes, I finished it in one sitting in less than a day. So… Thumbs up! YA, Beach Mystery lovers would like to read this book.

Read all my review on blog- Books Teacup and Reviews

[Guttu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actual rating 3.5/5

This is one of the easy reads of this year. You can finish this in 2 hours. It is a story about three friends who seek for adventure during their summer vacation. They probably get more than what they want. I don't want to reveal much about the story as it's a short read.
A couple of things before you read this. This is teenage story and meant for that age or as they say "YA" category. You won't like it unless you read it like a teenager. The simplicity of the novel is something that will hook you to this book. You won't put down this till you finish.
What I didn't like about the book was there was not much of Goa in the book. This could have taken place anywhere on coastal belt. Secondly, There was scope for characters to develop. But the length of the book didn't allow it. This could have been a good book for 200 pages at least.
I won't put this on must read list. But you'll definitely enjoy reading this.

[Nico Genes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading different genre no matter of age. Therefore I didn’t think twice when choosing “Goan Chase” and I am really glad I did. It is a young adult mystery, the first in a series, and I must say it's great. I enjoyed seeing how three fourteen year old engaged in solving a mystery that at moments put their lives in danger. Despite the initial belief in their personal deficiencies, through the happening they used and proved their unique talents. The plot kept my attention and surprised me with the twists and turns. I also see this book as a great read for teenagers, as they can identify themselves with the main characters. Beautiful written, definitely a great start for the author. I look forward to her next books.

[Manjri Gopalan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the name clearly says, the story revolves around 3 teenager friends - Jai, Nirvaan and Ayesha, who try to resolve a mystery in order to save Jai's ancestral home. The plot is quite predictable. It's short book and an easy read.

The book is ideal for kids as it gives some good messaging like "everyone has weakness, but one should never lose hope. Instead, one should recognize his/her strength and focus on getting a solution."

[Ruchi Patel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice story of 3 individuals. Jai , Ayesha and Nirvaan. Really interesting and suspense definitely held my attention and i am eagerly waiting for the next part. Nice storyline and good choices of vocabulary and dialogues. Simple yet perfect!!

[Aravind · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to the author / publisher for the giveaway copy of this nice little book. Goan Chase is a young adult mystery, the series starter, and it's quite promising. Three fourteen year olds, each with some unique talents, also with certain deficiencies, team up to solve a mystery that threatens their stay at, and any future visits to, an idyllic goan villa. In the process, they come close to their death, face their vulnerabilities, and overcome them. There's not much scope for proper development of their characters as it will be a continual process throughout the rest of the series. I think this trio could be India's answer to Enid Blyton's teams of teenage detectives!

[Siddhi Palande · Rating 4 out of 5]

What follows is an honest review and I am glad to have had the opportunity to review it.

Going by the name one can incur that it is crime thriller. It follows the story of Jai, Ayesha and Nirvaan, three teenagers who are in Goan in an ancestral bungalow that belongs to Ms Walia, Jai's maternal aunt. The house is cursed, there is possibly an evil presence lurking. And no sooner do we start reading we are gripped by the story. What begins as a minor accident turns into a series of events and it culminates into an intriguing case.

I usually never read the blurb of any book. I wish for the books to surprise me. I am especially attracted to the name and the cover page. This book was no different. However, every page in this book piques your curiosity so much so that you never even realize that you have boarded a rollercoaster. And which also means that you need not read the blurb to buy this book. It is simply and efficiently told mystery.

The seamless writing gets you hooked to the tee. At one point you get a feel of Indian daily soap and then there were those times when the names like Mary Higgins Clark, Agatha Christie, Nancy Drew, kept coming back to me because the book has that magical spell. Also there was that point when I thought Jai-Ayesha-Nirvaan (JAN) were much like Harry-Ron-Hermoine, they were so likeable. At other point it also gave me a feeling of Nora Robert's novel which was set on a beach. This novel has competence which cannot be ignored.

There are 14 chapters in this novella, every chapter is titled, it is 115 pages long novella and can be read in a single sitting. (Me, however, took a day because, well, baby woes 😂.)

Yes, there were those points where the edits have been missed but that doesn't count at all. My debut novel (Beyond The Veil-The Journey Of An Indian Girl) might have more edits, I guess.

Overall, it is very well knit, full of intrigue and it makes you want to read more of JAN's adventures. The next book from Richa is titled Summer of 2017 and brings back the trio.

Publishers: Notion Press
Available on: Amazon, Kobo, Google books, iBooks, Kindle

On the scale of readability, I rate it 8 on 10.

How much rating will I give this one? 4 out of 5 stars. 

Is this book for keeps? I say, it is a definite travel buddy.


#HappyReading

PS: You can follow the author on all social media channels.

For more reviews pls visit https://ofbookbabiesandmore.wordpress...

[Preeti Bajra · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started reading this book I presumed the story and characters to revolve around a juvenile plot considering it’s a children’s fiction. However, once I started reading
I realized it was very well able to tease the cognitive abilities of an adult
reader equally. This was surely a page turner. I finished the book in one sitting as I couldnt not wait for the mystery to get resolved.

The author has put in a lot of effort in building an unravelable plot where you can may keep guessing till the end but will never be sure how the story would unfold.

Apart from a great plot, the story gives a great lesson on what true friendship means. The story revolves around 3 friends who stick together through all the challenges despite having many chances to bail
out. With the target reader group of children, this book certainly has much more to offer than just a great story.

What I loved the most

It’s a gripping story and the way it’s been told. Richa surely has a knack of storytelling. Hard to believe it’s her first novel.

What could have been better

Richa seems to have spent too much time dwelling into details that are not critical to the plot. So, the story can feel like drag in patches.

Pick it up

If you know a teenager who loves to read suspence fiction. Also, as it’s a thin book one can finish it in a sitting or two.

Skip it
If suspence fiction is not your cup of tea.

[Shantala · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This was an easy, fun read that I got through in one sitting, and I am not an especially fast reader.

As far as the mystery element is concerned, it was relatively predictable - for me. But then I read way too many mysteries, so maybe I am not the best judge for this.

Either way, I don't think I am the target audience here. Because I know this story will be perfect for tweens / teens who are relatively new to this genre. In-fact I know even my 7 year old is going to LOVE this (he is looking for new books to read now after finishing Harry Potter). And a friend's tween daughter too.

So while it was a little too-easy of a mystery for me to uncover, this is a great pick for tweens / teens, who I'm sure will enjoy this Goan Chase!

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book by Richa Sambhy Mediratta, is the first mystery book in a series, starring three teenage sleuths: Jai, Nirvaan, and Ayesha. This trio of school friends, find their summer vacation together rather intriguing and set out to find clues to the mysteries that present themselves.

A charming read.

I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.

[Varunsp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting Mystery and easy to read. Finished it in few hours.. Story is about three teenagers and how they solve the mystery by their own .. Expecting the next serie of the book soon. Got this book as giveaway & it's a good read.. Thanks to Goodreads and Richa Sambhy Mediratta .

[Shrikanth Venne · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a short thriller where a mysterious things happen in the house and the trio that is jai ayesha and nirwan being 14 years old solve the small mystery. Overall its a short thriller and suspense goodread... 😊

[susan murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Won from goodreads
A lovely nice thriller with mysterious things happening in the house. Jai with Ayesha also Nirwin, all 14 years old get to solve a mystery.
I found this a really good read which kept me entertained perfect for young teens

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this short book through a Goodreads giveaway. An enjoyable afternoon read, a mystery geared to Young Adult readers. The first book in a new series in which three teenage friends use each other's strengths to solve the mystery. Has potential to become an enjoyable series.

[Ankita Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a light and truly enjoyable read! One of the best Indian books I've ever read, short as it was! Will be eagerly awaiting the next mystery in the series!

[Anish · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice read for a lazy afternoon.
Characters seem a bit haphazard and underdeveloped.
Overall an enjoyable book.
Received via goodreads giveaway.

[Jayant Kashyap · Rating 4 out of 5]

Think it creates a good impact upon children.

[prisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

a good, short read. Its well written and intriguing. also not to brag but I figured out the mystery before it was explicitly told in the text. so yay!!

[Zainab Travadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot and pacing is good. Even after reading the blurb, it didn't feel like it was predictable, which is good. The are twist and turns in the story is intriguing and can readers will be easily drawn in, making it easy to devour this book in one sitting. 

At one point I was flipping back through earlier pages thinking I'd either missed something. The suspense is built throughout and compels you to keep on reading. The book kept me guessing many times but the end was pretty predictable. 


Overall I did enjoy this book. And I can't wait for the next one.

[Sue]

I'm not the target audience for this story and I didn't really enjoy the small section I read.