Once Upon A Genie

Once Upon A Genie #1

by Durriya Kapasi

Daisy had no idea what was in store for her when she uncovered the priceless reward concealed in a miscellaneous bottle; a super sexy genie that would pull the rugs below her feet.

Khalil Muwahid, the genie owed Daisy his gratitude for freeing him from the trap. He generously asked her for three wishes without holding any grudges against her. Gradually there was a strong connection between them, the bond of love.

Also, the rules of Djinn world were amended for their love, where Daisy wasn't supposed to ask for the third wish since they could be together, everlastingly.

BUT on the horns of Dilemma, Darren, Daisy's best friend's life was at threat. Does she use the last wish to save Darren? Or does she save her love?

200 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 2017

About the author

Durriya Kapasi is an author of Neverfound Land, her second novel that is also a sequel of her first bestselling book Once Upon A Genie. She’s a Creative Writing teacher, foodie and traveler. Durriya is a cancer survivor and contributes in motivating and encouraging cancer patients through support groups.

For more updates, you can follow her on https://www.facebook.com/durriyakapasi/

Reviews

[Aishwary Mehta (The_Fugitive_Biker) · Rating 1 out of 5]

37th Book of 2018

Quote from the Book I Liked - 'Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes because for those who love with their heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation. -Rumi' 

Rating - 1 Star

Plot Summary - Daisy had no idea what was in store for her when she uncovered the priceless reward concealed in a miscellaneous bottle; a super sexy genie that would pull the rugs below her feet.

Khalil Muwahid, the genie owed Daisy his gratitude for freeing him from the trap. He generously asked her for three wishes without holding any grudges against her. Gradually there was a strong connection between them, the bond of love. Also, the rules of the Djinn world were amended for their love, where Daisy wasn't supposed to ask for the third wish since they could be together, everlastingly.

BUT on the Horns of Dilemma, Darren, Daisy's best friend's life was at a threat. Does she use the last wish to save Darren? Or does she save her love? 

My Review - The story is about a girl Daisy who is 19 years old (keep that in mind). Her parents are separated and she lives with her Grandmother who's a Witch. Her grandmother left a note in her deathbed to check her Closet for a Bottle of Glass. As she was a Witch, the bottle had an entrapped Genie inside it. The Genie grant her 3 wishes after completing which, he'll just disappear from her life. The trouble begins when she fell in love with that Genie, Khalil. Her best friend is a good Guy who cares for her and develops a feeling of Love for her which he himself isn't aware of.

The story from the beginning felt to me a bit too unrealistic and illogical. A question for a reader, How are you supposed to behave when you are alone in your house and the person you loved the most just died and a genie  (Ghost as you'll call him at first site) appears and you cannot escape the room as he has locked the door with his magical powers? My answer, You are supposed to be hell scared and feel utmostly afraid, but, in here the girl who lost her grandmother admires the Physique of a stranger male who all of a sudden trapped her in the room. Then comes the logic of Hypnotising, The Genie kisses her forcefully throughout the book just to hypnotize her whenever he wants. The whole Idea seems as total Harassment to me (which Daisy also should have thought about). Either, the Girl is been written as a Totally 19-Year-old Dumb Girl or the Genie making out and impregnating a 19-year-old girl (who just lost her only caring Guardian who just died) is legible. 

That's just about the raging hormones (if that applies to Genies), the book does not even elaborate about Daisy's best friend Darren's feelings (if the book was meant to be romantic). Not even their is Romance in between the Genie and Daisy, it's all just Casual Love making throughout the book and it's always the Genie who initiates. Daisy just goes on with the flow. The romantic thing that Daisy picturizes also seems illegitimate as that might be some hypnotizing power of Genie.

The most confusing part for me is, either I didn't get the Book or the book is written wrong in a whole lot of levels. Whatever that might be, I felt disgusted throughout the book.

Conclusion - Illogical Read which can be read by keeping your Brain in the Deep freeze to be reinstalled after completing the book.

Full Review on Blog.
Link to Blog - The Tales of Fugitive Biker

[Surabhi Sharma · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Once upon a genie' is a story of a young girl Daisy who lost her grandmother and had no one in the world to be called of her own. After she died, Daisy finds out about a treasure box and a bottle inside it. She opened the bottle and a handsome genie came out of it. She got terrified seeing him at first but gradually there was a strong connection between them, the bond of love.

The book lived to my expectations and I absolutely fall in love with the story. The beautifully made plot and the storyline. It is an unusual love story of a girl and a genie. Love is the strongest emotion and out of the ordinary pair of this story proves it. Read it to travel the magical world and feel the magic of love.

https://thereviewauthor.com/

[Ankita Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blurb:

Daisy had no idea what was in store for her when she uncovered the priceless reward concealed in a miscellaneous bottle; a super sexy genie that would pull the rugs below her feet.

Khalil Muwahid, the genie owed Daisy his gratitude for freeing him from the trap. He generously asked her for three wishes without holding any grudges against her. Gradually there was a strong connection between them, the bond of love.

Also, the rules of Djinn world were amended for their love, where Daisy wasn't supposed to ask for the third wish since they could be together, everlastingly.

BUT on the horns of Dilemma, Darren, Daisy's best friend's life was at threat. Does she use the last wish to save Darren? Or does she save her love?

Review:

First of all, congratulations Durriya Di on your debut novel!

Once Upon A Genie is a story about love, friendship, rules and heartbreak.

It was full of humor, sweet moments, heart touching gestures and a beautiful story.

I absolutely loved reading this book and was glad I bought it. I'd be eagerly waiting for the sequel!

[Aakanksha Mishra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once upon a genie
Once upon a genie

Once upon a genie by Durriya kapasi is the debut novel of the author. I was so excited to read this book since its cover got launched because of two reasons. First I love genies and their magical powers and second I liked the book’s cover and blurb as well. I really enjoyed reading this book and now I’m waiting for its second part. It is a kind of book full with magic, love, and pain.

After the death of her grandmother Daisy opens her cupboard as per her wish and a genie enters her life who is hotter than any guy she has ever come across. He grants her 3 wishes as she had freed her from that bottle. The dominance of Khalil Bin muwahhid, our hot genie, the flirty nature and the intoxicating personality, everything about that handsome genie attracted her towards him and she started falling for him no matter how much she tried to control her emotions. In the context, Daisy asks for her first wish by mistake and that took her to the world of genies. She tries to push away from him from her mind but the more she tries the more he dwells in her heart. She wanted to be with him forever in spite of the fact that a genie and a human can never be together. When her second wish is also granted and the last one remaining, her best friend Darren end up in a hospital and struggles for his life. It puts Daisy in a state of dilemma whether to choose her best friend or her love, as genie would have to leave after all the three wishes of her are granted.

The plot is unique and is surely capable of attracting the audience.
The author has done a commendable job at the storytelling as it provides everything which can do justice with the story. This story is a kind of romance novel which is gonna leave you blushing for sure.

I loved the way how the author has portrayed the characters. Editing job has perfectly done so I didn’t find any mistake in the book.

I really loved the cover of this book which is yellow in color with a picture of a genie. The title ‘Once upon a genie’ is simple but catchy title as the one who loves this magical fantasy world, might find this book interesting. Coming to the blurb, this was the first book I ever read which provides you a detailed description so that you can easily decide if you want this book or not.

For me it’s a must read book and I’m eagerly waiting for its next part.

[Shivangi Rawat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Keeping aside the analysis part for some time, I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and it’s a quick read indeed. The cover of the book is simple yet pretty much eye catching because of the color combo and the design; it complements the title aptly. The title of the book is unique and though provoking enough to arouse the curiosity among the reader as it’s not often that we come across a ‘Genie’ in a title or book. The language of the book is simple and lucid enough. Written in a fact pace narration that made the (around 200 pages) book a quick read I must say. The narrating style of the authoress is quite mature at places and the descriptions of some particular events are written in a gripping way that can make the reader hooked with the story. The theme of the book is love, friendship, sacrifice. When it comes to characterization, I can say that it could have been a little better. Of course it’s portrayed well according to the need of story but when it’s coming to the point of reading about a Genie, then the unique self of it could have been portrayed with different shades. But still they are well enough presented in the book to make the story a compact read. The story reveals mainly two points simultaneously; one is the pure hearted love between a genie and a human and another is strong pure friendship between a girl and his best friend. This book comes up with such a plot that I can call unique and captivating of course. Daisy’s life started to change when fate made her cross paths with a genie named Khalil Bin Muwahid. The dashing good looking genie with an attracting persona made Daisy to fall head over hills for her and when she spend more time with her and got to know about him, she loved him more though she realized that according to the life of Djinns, they can’t be together ever. The only way to keep Khalil with her is keep the last wish (as he bound to fulfill any 3 wishes of Diasy in the sense of gratitude) reserved forever. But destiny had some other plans in store for them as she got to know that her best friend Darren’s life is at stake. Now what will she do? What is more important to her; love or friendship? Whom will she prefer to save and how is the rest of the story. This book is very interesting romance read with blend of strong friendship, emotions, and feelings are portrayed aptly by the authoress. The visualizing narration made it a unique one. I was feeling lost in the book at a time with their journeys. This story demands a sequel and I will be looking forward to read its 2nd part as soon as possible. I would love to recommend this to fictional lovers, romance and love readers. My rating to the book is- 4/5 stars.

[Banaja Prakashini · Rating 4 out of 5]

The loss of her grandmother opens an entrance in Daisy’s life for a genie. Enters Khalil Bin Muwahid, hot as compared to the hell fire and filled with gratitude on being freed, he grants Daisy three wishes.
The eye finds it’s candy and the heart finds it’s lover and Daisy falls for the dominating and gorgeous being descended to provide a shoulder to her tiring life.
Daisy slips out a wish by mistake and that sets them on a tiny journey away from the human world where she learns the ways of the Djinns .
The more time she spends with him, the more he dwells in her mind , making her worry about the fact that a human and a Djinn cannot be together.
With the second wish granted and the last wish remaining, Daisy’s best friend Darren struggles for life in a hospital bed. Making it a tough decision for Daisy whether to choose friendship or love, for the genie would have to leave after all the three wishes are asked for.

Once upon a genie is a pure chicklit and surely appeals to the target audience.
The plot is unique among Indian authors and is fast paced, thus giving a lot of content to read in just 182 pages.
The author Durriya Kapasi has done a great job at the storytelling as it’s a chicklit and requires some description in order to make it demanding among the young ladies who would be cribbing for some romance and the author has excelled at providing it.

If a person ever had a taste for fan fictions, this book is gonna leave them blushing for sure.

I loved the way the book ends giving the hint for a sequel which probably has some genie world action. (That’s what I dreadfully hope.)

Grammer Nazis are gonna love this book, it just has two printing errors ( including the double printing of about 12-18 pages).

The cover is classy along with the blurb that is informative as it could be and that’s the kind of blurb that helps people at having a clear sight of whether they want the book or not.

Ratings-
Cover- 4 out of 5 stars
Title- 4 out of 5 stars
Blurb- 4 out of 5 stars
Plot- 3 out of 5 stars
Writing and Presentation- 3.5 out of 5 stars
Overall rating- 3.7 out of 5 stars

The book aims at a particular section of age so it might not be enjoyed by everyone who reads it. So if you love chicklits, Once Upon A Genie is THE book for you.

I expected a bit more of magical description of the Djinn land than given.

There were a few places which needed a bit of description in order to avoid confusion, for example, everyone knew that Daisy’s grandmother was a good witch but that couldn’t be something that a reader can accept without any revelation on her past.

Reviewed By– Banaja Prakashini

[Damini Aggarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to take a break from the chaos happening outside, if you want to travel somewhere this world will never take you to, if you want to be a child again and then experience all the cheesy things, if you are fond of love, if you wish to read something that will let you set free in the world of imagination, then this is the perfect piece of writing you will ever have in your reading list. The book despite of fantasy is filled with emotions that we being a human have. The kind of fascination, which is being narrated in the book is intact to all the stories you have ever read. The author has her own way of penning down the scene and making you travel with her every word on every page. I was already excited to know what's there inside the book after looking at its cover which is in total relation to the story within. A yellow background color and a shadow of genie is depicting the entire tale in itself.
While if I talk about the flow of a story, this is something I have never read before instead within a few classic books. I mean the narration is beautiful & far beyond from the modern age story books. The depth of words will help you create a scene in front of your eyes. 
I'm eagerly waiting for the next part of the book. 

[Gulshan Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a story of a young girl named Daisy, who lost her only family member left which was her grandmother. While dying Daisy’s grandmother gave her the most memorable gift ever – a genie trapped in a bottle. As Daisy opens the bottle, the genie comes outhttps://qpgames.blogspot.com/2025/02/... grants Daisy with three wishes which he will fulfill before he leaves Daisy. Read my complete review for the book at Once Upon A Genie

[Komal Chandwani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual Rating: 3.5/5

Once Upon A Genie is a refreshing story in terms of the storyline and writing. The perspective of the story is different and exceptional. The story's plot is engaging enough for the readers to keep turning the pages. The writer's command over the language is strong which is a good thing. What I personally like about the book is how it is panned out. Yes, the story could've been more polished, but considering the fact that this is the author's first book, it is exceptional work and calls for an applause.

However, the book had editing and proofreading errors which hindered the good flow of the book. In addition, there were instances of tense change in the same paragraph, which is a big no-no for me. The editor should've paid attention to these during proofreading the book.

Keeping that aside - the characters of this story are beautifully carved out. It took some time to have that "connection" with the characters, but eventually it happened. As I turned the pages, waves of emotions hit me all at once. The thrill, the eagerness to know what was going to happen; the love, and the regret. I couldn't choose what I wanted to feel because the writer had already decided that for me. Hats off!

I would personally recommend this story and if you are looking for something different and something fantastical - this is your jam.

[Dimple Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon A Genie by Durriya Kapasi is a romantic fantasy thriller with boundless sparks of humor. The book spills the stream of the astonishing and mesmerizing fantasy world of genies along with the sprinkles of passionate love between a human and an invisible genie. Through the book, the author attempts to showcase the thin wall that always exists between friendship and love. It is very casually said that “where there is friendship, love dwells forever.” What if one has to choose between the two?

Once Upon A Genie is the story of Daisy, an adorable lady, who gets the biggest surprise of her life when she discovers a magical bottle that was left by her grandmother after her death. She gets more surprised when she witnesses a genie coming out of the bottle. Genie grants Daisy three wishes for freeing him. While Daisy spends some blissful moments with the genie she falls for him. When Khalil (the genie) realizes that he’s going against the rules of his land, he maintains distance between him and Daisy. Love triumphs when Daisy refuses to ask for her third wish to have him forever in her life. Things seemed to go on well when Darren, Daisy’s best friend, struggles between life and death. Will Daisy save her best friend’s life by sacrificing her love or will she choose to stay with her love?

When I read the title of the book I could predict that there will be a genie who will grant all the wish of the main character of the story. But this book bore a very unique concept. It elaborated on the love between a visible and an invisible, between two people of entirely different worlds, which actually accelerated my eagerness to complete the book in a go. The first half of the book was full of humor. I was even lost in the fantasy world of genies in the middle of the story. The twist that takes place at the end was the most unexpected one. One will be compelled to sympathize with the main character of the story over her dilemma to choose between friendship and love. This book deserves to be read by every book lover and reader.

[Padmaja · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thank the Author for providing me a signed review copy. 

Once upon a genie is the story of Daisy, who lives with her grandmother after her parents split up. 

While on her deathbed, her grandmother leaves a note for her. To her utter surprise, Daisy finds out that its actually a genie!! The genie grants her three wishes and the rest of the story is about Daisy and the genie and how Daisy ends up tackling her problems in life.

I loved the book because of the unusual concept. When I read the blurb, I was very excited to read it. The relationship between Daisy and the genie, Khalid is so beautiful! Kudos to the Author for coming up with such a unique concept and weaving an adorable and “bewitching” story out of it. 

Until this book, the only genie I had read about was Alladin’s genie. It was very different from the usual love stories that we read these days.

I love magical stories and “Once upon a genie” didn’t disappoint me. Go read it guys! Very refreshing story. 

Rating 4.5/5

[Nikita Ranga · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story revolves around the protagonist Daisy and her changed life after her grandmother died. The secret gift of her grandmother to her granddaughter and how the way it affected Daisy’s life was worth reading.
By reading the blurb, at first, it feels like another Aladdin and her jinn’s story, however, the fluke gets wrong as one gets indulges him into the wonderful story. Unique theme, Suspenseful plot with a satisfying ending, original well-described characters make it a perfect and engrossing read. The description of Khalil and his Jinn world was fantastic. The chemistry between the couple was beyond words. However, the climax was the best part as it holds the capacity to bring tears. Definitely an engrossing read and a page turner. Highly recommended to everyone.
Negatives-
I didn’t like the cover of the book as the wonderful story inside deserves a much more beautiful cover.
Secondly, the last words of the book say- “ IT’s NOT THE END” I hope it meant that the author will soon come up with a second part as I want to read more about the life of Daisy post marriage and their half human half jinn baby. Did Khalil come again to meet Daisy? And much more.
Rest, no flaws.

[Zainab Travadi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the cover and the blurb. The book is different and very compelling, an awesome combination of romance, humor and suspense. Another aspect of this book is throughout the book reader is taken through a roller- coaster of emotions in various human relations
It elaborated on the love between a visible and an invisible, between two people of entirely different worlds, which actually accelerated my eagerness to complete the book in a day. I kind of didn't want it to be over.
The plot is interesting and well thought. The chemistry between the couple was beyond words. I loved the imaginative and vivid description of the myriad world of genie.
Through the book, the author attempts to showcase the thin wall that always exists between friendship and love. I think the one will be compelled to sympathize with the main character of the story over her dilemma to choose between friendship and love.
The suspense is built throughout and compels you to keep on reading. This is a very well written story and definitely keeps the readers hooked to the book.
Overall I did enjoy this book so much. Super excited for the sequel and more works from the author.

[Soham Shukla · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the genie in the book can grant me a wish, I want the end of the book not to be an end

[Lohitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completed this book in one go, as I didn't want to miss the emotional continuity.
While reading the story I wished for a genie who could secretly add extra pages in the book so that I can fly in the world of jinns for a long time. I'm in so love with the book.The author has made a clear description of everything maybe the imaginary world of jinns or the treatments and details of cancer. I am eagerly waiting for the sequel.I wish the author reveals about daisy grandmother, why was Khalil bottled by her, about daisy child. All I could think was of love, friendship, genie land, Habibti, and da-da.I secretly wished for Khalil to be with daisy forever, I didn't want her to make a third wishOne of the amazing experience I had was I could fly(imaginary) to the genie land along with the story.I could even relate with the cancer tests, treatments as I have my family member undergoing that.All in all a treat for the book lover.If you are a young reader you will blush and get emotional for sure while reading this book.I wish Durriya Kapasi very good luck for the sequel and much more such works.

[SAMVEDNA · Rating 4 out of 5]

A genie and a girl. Yes, imagination definitely has no boundaries. And why should it, when you can narrate it with such flare.
The uniqueness of the plot thickens with the turning pages. The magical world of love, actually dwelling in magic.

A genie grants you three wishes. Three; with little; perhaps no restrictions on the nature of the wish. Three, and you’re done.
So what shall you do if you’re in love with the genie and want to stay with him forever?

You never make the third wish!

But, will you stand that ground if what’s on stake is your friend’s life?
Or will you choose friendship over love?

The book is highly inclined towards a certain genre of readers and they shall be highly entertained while reading it.

[Sulagna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Go to http://bookgirlsulagna.blogspot.com/2... for a detailed review

'Once Upon a Genie' is a one time and an enjoyable read. What I loved about this book is it's catchy concept where a human falls in love with a genie; and a third wheel has been introduced which adds spice to the book. As we grew up reading and watching Aladin, genies have had a special place in our fantasy world; and that's why this book is such a pleasant deviation from the hardcore romantic books. Some of the parts provided comic relief and overall it was a light and good read.

[Murali Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon A Genie by Durriya Kapasi, is a extraordinary novel of love, friendship, fantasy and magic. The blurb of the book takes me on a ride full of curiosity and excitement later on it continues throughout the 186-Pages. The author had beautifully connected the reality with fantasy.

The story begins with Daisy's grandma an good witch passed away with a beautiful gift to Daisy. The gift is none other than beautiful genie and three wishes. The author has maintained a beautiful flow in the story throughout the book. You won't feel like putting the book side for a single second.

The climax is interesting and you can expect a nail-biting finish in the end. It's really hard to predict what daisy had chosen Genie, her love or Darren, her best friend.

I'm happy with the ending and just excited to read the squeal. An superb plot and a MUST READ. One of the best novel I read on fantasy and magic.

The language used in the book by the author Durriya Kapasi is top class. He has perfectly placed each and every word just takes me to the imagination. I doesn't feel like reading the book of debutant no mistakes from author side, only one thing I felt is can be given brief explanation about daisy's grandma.

Overall, Once Upon A Genie is book to pick and enjoy the read in world of love, friendship and magic :)

[Adil Haneef · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started this book I was skeptical whether I will like it or not. But as soon as I started the first chapter I was in a rush to finish this book and the plot revolves around three characters who are so beautifully depicted that I fell in love with all three of them!
It has got everything in it
Good storyline.
Motivation for pushing yourself to the core and not giving up.
Fantasyland that makes you forget for a moment that you're not in the story but merely reading it.
My heart was filled with variety of emotions
Like love, remorse and thrill
There were moments when I felt so touched by the story that I can't describe how it felt
Mesmerising and amazingly well written! Kudos to the writer...

[Manpreet Kaur · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't like the book much. After a brilliant starting, it just gets boring, predictable and rushed.
I couldn't appreciate the characters and the plot.

[ShikhaReadster · Rating 3 out of 5]

You can also read the full review on my blog

What will you do, if you suddenly come across a genie with magical powers? What will be your three wishes? Most of us already know what we will wish for. Being a reader, it goes without saying that since childhood I have spent countless nights modifying my wishes. Well, I want my own magical Pegasus. (This one is number one priority since I was five years old).

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. First of all, I would like to congratulate Ms. Durriya Kapasi for her debut novel. Ever since I read the blurb, I was curious about the story.

This tale is about a 20 years old girl Daisy who lives in Canada with her grandmother. After her parents’ divorce, her grandmother brought her up. She is her only family. Her entire world has shattered after the demise of her grandmother. Although she has bunch of friends (and a best friend), she feels alone in this world now.

Daisy’s granny left her a scroll, in which she instructed her to open her treasure box and find a perfume bottle inside it. To respect her last wish, she follows her instruction. Accidentally she breaks the bottle and to her astonishment a handsome genie comes out of it and grants her three wishes. This is where our story takes an interesting turn.

At first Daisy is afraid of the genie. But when Khalil Bin Muwahid (Khali) thanks her for releasing him and assures her that he won’t harm her, she gradually starts believing him. As for Khalil, he fell in love with Daisy the first moment he saw her. She is also insanely attracted to him.

Daisy asks for her first wish as a joke but Khali grants her wish. What starts off as fun, soon turns into an epic journey to a magical land. It brings them closer to each other. However, Khali soon realizes that due to Djinn world’s rules they can’t be together and starts keeping distance from Daisy. In between all the heart break and college drama, Daisy asks for her second wish and enjoys a lot with her best friend Darren. Finally, because of Khali’s persuasion, the rules of Djinn world are altered for their love. Khali informs Daisy that he will stay with her and they can be together as long as she doesn’t asks for her third wish.

But as the fate would have it, Daisy’s best friend Darren’s life is at risk. He is hanging between life and death and she has to select between love and friendship. Will she use her last wish? The story concludes with Daisy taking the toughest decision of her life.

Being a huge fan of Arabian tales, I always felt there are not enough stories about genies. Djinns are also an integral part of Indian folklore. So I was really impressed with the concept Durriya selected for her first book. I agree that the story is a bit clichéd but I believe that a well executed clichéd story is always better than a half baked new concept. And kudos to author’s writing style, she did full justice to the story. I am a sucker for star-crossed love stories. A relationship which is doomed to fail even before it begin and yet so beautifully written that we come back to it again and again.

Generally I am not a big fan of insta-love in fiction. But here the concept works well. Daisy has just lost her grandmother and she is in a vulnerable condition. Often while grieving, people turn to strangers for warmth & comfort. That’s why people join anonymous support groups too. And no matter how much we deny, it is not impossible for someone to fall in love instantly. Also the fact that Khali is a super-sexy genie, doesn’t hurt (who doesn’t wants that). Only thing which bothered me while reading the story is how Khali hypnotized Daisy many times to seduce her and make out with her.

I liked Darren a lot. He is a funny, easygoing guy. He is that one guy friend whom every girl needs in her life. I wish his point of view was expressed little bit more clearly. Most of the times, I didn’t understand what he is thinking or feeling. I hope we get to see more of Darren in the next book (eagerly waiting for the sequel).

Considering this is author’s first book, she has done a fantastic job of intertwining fantasy with realism. The story surely didn’t disappoint me. I read the whole book in one sitting. Also the cover of the book is enchanting. Definitely recommend it to fellow readers.

My rating: 3/5

[Sumith Chowdhury · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book to read.

The cover was simply awesome. The silhouette representation of the character makes its mesmerizing to the eyes. The man in the front with a mysterious aura surrounding him gives the readers the feeling that the muscular character portrayed over here has supernatural powers. The back cover also gives an idea of the characters and the role they play in the book, with the blurb which describes what basically happens in the book.

The title is eye-catching and unique which goes in perfect blend with the story. The genie is a mystical character with many supernatural powers. The title goes in correlation with the story and is apt with every sequence of the book.

Theme is of a selfless love of a mystical being with a human girl, a deep compassion and respect which goes beyond the relationship between mere humans. A journey of forbidden love is expressed here. It revolves around the fact that love is unconditional, selfless and can happen between any two beings whether they’re of the same kind or not. The love so deep that it made the genie sacrifice despite losing many of his powers and good deeds which he inherited from his clan. The book portrays many emotions like love, happiness, sadness, responsibility, understanding, friendship and so on…

The story as the blurb describes revolves around Daisy and the central character ‘Khalil’ who’s a genie who met at unexpected circumstances. Genie falls in love at first sight with Daisy, however Daisy couldn’t resist herself from falling in love with him, as he was super sexy and way beyond any depth or beyond of any man known and eventually she falls head over heels for him. The romance, the erotic passion, the level of intimacy depicted between the prominent characters are a feast to the eyes while reading the book.

The book is written in such a way that it gives a the touch of a movie as if the reader isn’t reading a book but rather he’s lost in the depths of a Hollywood movie making its way across our heart and soul; making us believe in the characters and feeling their various emotions. A great deal of research has been done for writing the book, thought a fictional one, however one cannot ignore the way the plot has been written which etch the minds of the readers.

Since childhood, I’ve read about genies in my research and some stories, so reading it reminded me of the good old days when my parents used to tell about them and how they grant our wish and fulfill our dormant desires.

Language was lucid and amazing, goes in par with the foreign authors. The compilation done was also fabulous giving a nice poetry surreal touch to it. Narration was both in 3rd and 1st person with a unique blend at certain places with persuades the readers to finish it at a single read.

The ending was really a good one, making it worth reading it. A really amazing book, a must buy. I was glad to purchase it, worth the money. Can’t wait for the sequel to arrive.

[Khyati Gautam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ever thought that do genies exist? How do they look? How they behave? Do they have human emotions and what if some human falls in love with them? Sounds eerie, right!

BLURB:

Daisy had no idea what was in store for her when she uncovered the priceless reward concealed in a miscellaneous bottle; a super sexy genie that would pull the rugs below her feet. Khalil Muwahid, the genie owed Daisy his gratitude for freeing him from the trap. He generously asked her for three wishes without holding any grudges against her. Gradually there was a strong connection between them, the bond of love. Also, the rules of Djinn world were amended for their love, where Daisy wasn’t supposed to ask for the third wish since they could be together, everlastingly.

But on the horns of the dilemma, Darren, Daisy’s best friend’s life was at threat. Does she use the last wish to save Darren? Or does she save her love?

REVIEW:

Once Upon a Genie by Durriya Kapasi is a magical fictional tale that takes you in the world of genies. The cover is quite simple but the title itself arouses the curiosity about the intriguing mystery of the existence of the eerie creatures. The blurb is equally fascinating. The language and expressions in the story are beautiful. The brewing love between a genie and a human keeps the reader glued to the book. The storytelling is so interesting that one wouldn’t be able to take his eyes off the book. As you hold it, you feel the magic.

The narration is very coherent and impressive. The strong imagination and ability to put forth it in an impressive manner of the author are reflected in the book. I am pleased to read this. The plotline is so interesting that even I fell in love with the genie. His character has been portrayed deliberately. The character of Darren signifies the real image of a true friend as well as a true and selfless love. On one hand, Daisy struggles with her predicaments while on the other hand, the two men in her life make every effort to make her life easier and happier. This book is a gem in my bookshelf for its uniqueness and magic!

[Deepali Gupta · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE AND COVER - The title is very catchy and indulges you into knowing more about what the book is about. The cover is so amazing with the glossy cover, i instantly fell for the book. And the blurb all the more, lets you want to read the book very eagerly. Keeping the suspense alive and not giving much.

THEMES COVERED - love, imagination, sacrifice and hope.

CHARACTERS - daisy is the main character and soul of the story, Darren is her best friend and then the hero - khalil( the genie). You will absoulutely love daisy's character of how bubbly cheerful and caring she is. Darren is her best friend and funny. Khalil makes you fall in love with him instantly! Less characters and beautiful plot by the author.

PACE - medium paced.

STORY - It is a different book for sure. Starts with daisy's grandmas death and she leaving a gift for her. when unknowingly she frees the genie away. little did she know and she fell in love with khalil - who asks her for her three wishes and wants to go back to the genie land. they fall in love. she has already asked for two wishes now what about the third one? read the book to know more!

WHAT YOU WILL REALLY LOVE - We all want something surreal? don't we. This book takes you to a sweet trip. lucid language and easy flowing. The way each incident has been described, the freshness of the story. the way each persons dialogue is given with its name , which will not confuse you at all during reading it. It definitely keeps you hooked to the book, and with the ending the book. I am really waiting for its second book. Also as a debut book by the author - she has done a tremendous job. you will feel connected to the story - the pain and the love. The scenes between daisy and genie, also few hilarious incidents that take place. makes you believe in magic all over again!

definitely recommended.

overall -4/5

I would like to thank the author - Durriya kapasi to provide me the book in exchange of an honest review!

[Nidhi Srivastava · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story is one of the simple with the climax quite predictable. I must compliment the author for using simplified language and phrases in the course of the story. The plot is about the girl, Daisy who lost her grandmother and became a part of the misconduct her grandmother was responsible for. Daisy’s grandmother was an expert in witch craft; however her wrong spell led to bottling of a genie for some time. With the death of her grandmother, the gift bottle belonged to Daisy as a part of her grandmother’s last wish. The genie seems unconventional in the story, with a perfect built and on point romance stances. In the beginning, his presence startled Daisy, but with the passage of time, she acquainted herself with his presence all around. The story took turns with the course of wishes being granted to Daisy by the genie. I failed to believe a romantic relationship between people of two different worlds. Well, I reminded myself that it’s all work of fiction and I should live in the world of fiction. The author has played really well with the characters, such as Darren who is Daisy’s best friend, Daisy’s mom, Jessica and even for that matter Thomas. A number of thoughts play in mind every time, the genie kissed Daisy…. To find out more about the love between two different creatures you must grab your copy. There is more to be unleashed with the upcoming three wishes granted to Daisy by her genie. There is more to the relationship of a mother and daughter in the plot. There are some of the lengthy reference scenes described in the plot which were the only thing that I disliked about the plot. However, on an average the plot did well and would continue engaging its readers further. Every time, I read something involving a genie, I crave to have one of those from the Aladdin times.

[Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Title: Once upon a genie
Author: Durriya Kapasi
Format: Paper Back
Total Number of Pages: 200
Publisher: HALF BAKED BEANS
Publishing Date: 2017
Printed Price: INR 225
ISBN-10: 9384315702
ISBN-13: 978-9384315702

Book Title:
The title of the book ' Once upon a genie' looks like a fantasy fiction story name.

Book Cover :
The book cover is a also a quite interesting one. There are many things depicted in the cover image. One is a male figure that may give the readers a hint that he may be the hero of the story. The overlay picture has a woman and man's shadow depicting there is a love story. The color yellow and black is a classic combination depicting brightness and darkness.

Plot:
Who ever is the person, however matured and old the person is, a love story always fascinates them. As such every love story starts unknowingly and in sometimes at unknown places under unknown circumstances. Such is this story because this love story is between a female and a male genie which is just a creature found in fictional works.

The story is a innovative and a creative one. The newness in the plot is a very positive point and a reason to buy the book. Though a fantasy one, definitely there are emotions as like in other stories. The intensity of the plot is gripping and interesting.

Characters:
All the characters are very well designed and plotted.

Narration:
The narration is so very good and gripping

Language and Vocabulary:
The language, grammar and vocabulary is very nice.

My Final Verdict—
A sweet ride of fantasy story !!!
Book title: 5/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language and Vocabulary: 4/5
I personally rate the book 4 out of 5

[Misty Basu · Rating 3 out of 5]

" Don't rush love because even in fairy tales, happy endings takes place on the last page " but does every fairy tale has a happy ending ? or is happiness merely lies in perception. Read and get a deep insight with the new fantasy tale ' Once Upon a genie ' by durriya kapasi.
The book starts with introducing
Daisy, a simple girl from a broken family for whom perhaps the only cure that could make her never ending miseries vanish is getting a genie in a bottle and to her surprise that actually happened. Enter Khalil, the enigmatic and handsome djinn who not only granted her 3 wishes but they even have a romance brewing. Everything seems perfect until Darren, daisy's best friend seeks her help.
Torn between two men , this is a tale of love, friendship ,separation and conflict but above all its about choices. Daisy's dilemma to choose among her friend and lover is the crux of the story.
The novel is staged against two worlds: humans and Djinns and the story is apt at shuttling between both the worlds but somehow along the line lacks intensity. It's cliche and predictable but the sweet moments between Khalil & daisy makes the story very warm and enjoyable.
The concept of fantasy romance is very delicate and hence the author's bold attempt to conceptualise it is commendable. The book does have some unnecessary sub plots and deliberately infused situations but otherwise it's an refreshing experience. The characters are quite likeable but Darren seems little half baked and needed more depth.
Overall Short and precise the book manages to hold attention till the end. Definitely recommended as a good one time read.

[Bibliomania · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story revolves around a character called Daisy who got a misterious box from her witch grandmother. Unknowingly she freed a genie from the bottle inside that box. The genie broke our imagination from aladdin's genie 😜 He is handsome (BF type 😉). Daisy have to ask for three wishes to get rid of this genie. Because she want freedom from that genie. The person who irritated her , became the soul of her whole life. But here comes the twist. Darren - friend of daisy - is also fall in love with her. Love triangle. Whom will she choose? Is a human - genie relationship acceptable to the world? These questions develop a curiosity to read.

The characters were described in a very well manner. While reading we can visualize whatever she wrote. I think I am also fell in love with Genie. The romantic scenes shows the depth of their love. ( never prefer to children this portion). Narration of each and every bit of the story is fabulous.

This story not only portrait the love between two couples but also pointed out the depth of a good friendship. The struggle between love and friendship leads the story plot. Also we can see a rebirth of a shattered mother daughter relationship.

I felt like something is missing in the novel. That is about Daisy's grandmother and her magical powers and childhood of daisy. The end of the story is much predictable because of the hint in the blurb. It could have been avoided.

Eagerly waiting for the second part.

[Ibtesam Rahman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon A genie by Durriya Kapasi
🌸Fantasy
🌸 Rs 225
🌸 187 pages
🌸 Half Baked Beans
BLURB-
Meet Daisy, a young girl with troubled relations with her parents, who has just lost her granny who was a witch. Her granny's last wish is for Daisy to go fetch a bottle from which emerges a genie. (Yes heard it right, a genie- Alladin sort). Meet Khalil Muwahid, the sexiest genie ever who offers Daisy 3 wishes. Before he completes all 3 of her wishes, they fall in love and it's decided that Daisy shall not ask for her third wish so that Khalil will always stay with her. However, her best friend Darren, is on the edge of death and only a miracle can save him.
Does Daisy use her last wish or does she save her love?
OPINION-
Some stories you have alot of expectations from and the story turns out to be good but still not upto your expectations so you are upset about that. This is that story.
Things to notice in the story-
1.The plot, it's original and genuine. I just wish it lasted bit longer.
2. The characters, they are properly described. No character development though.
3. The setting, the genie land described is good. It's what I pictured the never found land would be.
4. The wishes Daisy made, if I got 3 wishes from a genie, I know what to ask for.
5. The language, simple with the perfect mix of Arabic phrases.
6. It has elements of humour, friendship, intense travelling, some forceful illogical love and some magic.
7. The pace, fast paced the story felt rushed and ended way too quickly. The way Daisy fell in love seems irrational to me.
8. The story didn't feel as magical as I was hoping it would be.
9. I hate Daisy's character. I get she was attracted to the genie but if a genie forced his way to my lips, I'd kick his ass. Somehow missing school yet being good at studies. Accepting whatever forceful kisses the genie threw her way, made her look dumb.
Still looking forward to the next book in the series "The neverfound land."

[Nimisha Sharma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Imagine Aladdin and Jasmine in a modern setting and their blossoming love regardless of their separate lands and rules. This is the story of Khalil and Daisy in Once Upon A Genie.

Daisy, the granddaughter of a generous witch has been surprised with an odd looking bottle after the death of her grandmother. A secret trapped inside the bottle, a genie rescued from another witch, has been fated with the young girl.

After a series of arguments and unsettling suspenses, the student is bound to adjust to Khalil, the genie, following adventures, emotions, love and heartbreak.

The narration feels fluid with the story, the twists are smart yet somehow the plot sounds cliched with a love triangle. Daisy's best friend Darren looked like an unnecessary main character to me. With how much I expected out of this book, and I do love it to an extent, I felt low after the unruly plot.

I liked the character portrayal of each but it could have been better if she wasn't crying after every other page, Khalil didn't force the what could have been, a normal falling in love and Darren wasn't creating a fuss all the time. I felt like the story could do better with it's original characters, falling in love gradually and unlike a rushed, forced love story.

I expected a lot out of this book from the starting pages but the middle few ruled out the justice to the story.