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As Death Stared Back
From the Amazon India Bestselling author in the horror genre, comes this bone trembling psychological horror based on absolute reality.
After her husband Punit's death, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare of Punit trying to kill their son. She rushes to his room and finds out that he has had the exact same nightmare.
Ten years later, the dead husband shows up at their door. Sanjana sees that he looks like Punit, behaves like him, and knows everything he knew, but she is convinced that he is not her husband.
As the evidences, of Punit's death start disappearing, will Sanjana be able to save her son from this imposter and prove her husband's death before her sanity collapses?
When your eyes are the sole proof of reality, would you dare to believe that there are times when they lie?
"A Masterful Psychological Horror"- Gauri salvekar, Saket Publication
"Will make you question your reality"- Sidharth Jain, The Story Ink
"Will take you inside the depths of a deranged mind" - Jaya Misra, Author- 'Kama'
"A horror that will shred you to pieces" - Sushant Divgikar, Psychologist, DNA ex-columnist
After her husband Punit's death, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare of Punit trying to kill their son. She rushes to his room and finds out that he has had the exact same nightmare.
Ten years later, the dead husband shows up at their door. Sanjana sees that he looks like Punit, behaves like him, and knows everything he knew, but she is convinced that he is not her husband.
As the evidences, of Punit's death start disappearing, will Sanjana be able to save her son from this imposter and prove her husband's death before her sanity collapses?
When your eyes are the sole proof of reality, would you dare to believe that there are times when they lie?
"A Masterful Psychological Horror"- Gauri salvekar, Saket Publication
"Will make you question your reality"- Sidharth Jain, The Story Ink
"Will take you inside the depths of a deranged mind" - Jaya Misra, Author- 'Kama'
"A horror that will shred you to pieces" - Sushant Divgikar, Psychologist, DNA ex-columnist
185 pages, Paperback
Published November 8, 2019
8 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Ajinkya Bhasme
4 books37 followersAmazon India bestselling author in the horror genre, Bhasme carefully crafts his works based on severe mental illness. He uses his engineering research background from IIT Bombay and his education in psychotherapy to dissect the most complicated stories human minds have to offer. His work is known to be unique and on topics that have never been touched before.
Bhasme's words have garnered him many national and international literary accolades from some of the most reputed media houses in the world. His books are known to be scary but have many trails of unsaid wisdom between the empty spaces.
"Reality is often scarier than nightmares, consider it like slowly being boiled in a pot and not even knowing it", says Bhasme describing his choice of writing horror and connecting it greatly with human psychology.
This 29 year old author prides in spending 2-4 years researching every book. His first novel, When the Devil Whispers, took him 4 years to compile. He calls his work 'partial fiction' because of the truth behind his stories. His objective is to spread awareness about mental health in an impartial way where readers get both entertained and educated through stories of real people.
He did his chemical engineering from IIT Bombay, then worked as a scientist for a drug manufacturing company for 5 years, then he did his diploma in psychotheray and certification in behavioral genetics to complement his work and writing. Some of his books are soon expected on screen.
He is quite active on instagram and spreads awareness through, stories, quotes and comics.
Connect with him on instagram @bhasmewords
Bhasme's words have garnered him many national and international literary accolades from some of the most reputed media houses in the world. His books are known to be scary but have many trails of unsaid wisdom between the empty spaces.
"Reality is often scarier than nightmares, consider it like slowly being boiled in a pot and not even knowing it", says Bhasme describing his choice of writing horror and connecting it greatly with human psychology.
This 29 year old author prides in spending 2-4 years researching every book. His first novel, When the Devil Whispers, took him 4 years to compile. He calls his work 'partial fiction' because of the truth behind his stories. His objective is to spread awareness about mental health in an impartial way where readers get both entertained and educated through stories of real people.
He did his chemical engineering from IIT Bombay, then worked as a scientist for a drug manufacturing company for 5 years, then he did his diploma in psychotheray and certification in behavioral genetics to complement his work and writing. Some of his books are soon expected on screen.
He is quite active on instagram and spreads awareness through, stories, quotes and comics.
Connect with him on instagram @bhasmewords
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 13, 2019
A death stared back
Your favorite quote all the time?
What a plot.!!
Before I proceed with review there are very few authors who makes us impact on us even though this is a horror genre which is less preferred still author able to make a good impact by plot and writing.
A perfect psychology horror book at the end of 2019. When I first saw the cover I was scared, to be honest (it looks scary). But the story is something I loved even though it's horror.
You all know that I love to play with psychology and this book is added to an advantage for me. As you move towards ending it is more and more hard to put down.
From chapter 29 I was like omg!!! Literally, the book takes a completely opposite turn (this is something every reader want at the end of any book).
It's a story of Sanjana, manu whose dead husband comes back to life after 10 years. Now everyone thinks he is a real punit except mother and son. And the twist comes when they found punit talking to someone about 5 stages of the plan.
Almost after 30 % book, it's hard to believe to each character I mean that showcase the development of characters.
The biggest mystery is the last 2,3 chapters. In the journey, it feels everyone dealing with own journey but in the end, we get a crystal clear picture.
I'm damn sure the book will leave you full of emotions. The maze/plot is completely outstanding. The only drawback I felt was a little bit of language improvement but, in front of the plot that's almost negligible
The takeaway was emotions journey
The mental health part
Psychology trigger
Your favorite quote all the time?
What a plot.!!
Before I proceed with review there are very few authors who makes us impact on us even though this is a horror genre which is less preferred still author able to make a good impact by plot and writing.
A perfect psychology horror book at the end of 2019. When I first saw the cover I was scared, to be honest (it looks scary). But the story is something I loved even though it's horror.
You all know that I love to play with psychology and this book is added to an advantage for me. As you move towards ending it is more and more hard to put down.
From chapter 29 I was like omg!!! Literally, the book takes a completely opposite turn (this is something every reader want at the end of any book).
It's a story of Sanjana, manu whose dead husband comes back to life after 10 years. Now everyone thinks he is a real punit except mother and son. And the twist comes when they found punit talking to someone about 5 stages of the plan.
Almost after 30 % book, it's hard to believe to each character I mean that showcase the development of characters.
The biggest mystery is the last 2,3 chapters. In the journey, it feels everyone dealing with own journey but in the end, we get a crystal clear picture.
I'm damn sure the book will leave you full of emotions. The maze/plot is completely outstanding. The only drawback I felt was a little bit of language improvement but, in front of the plot that's almost negligible
The takeaway was emotions journey
The mental health part
Psychology trigger
December 2, 2019
This was a rather quick read, but I did not anticipate that it will be so intense. As Death Stared Back draws you in the story in very little time. I felt for the character so deeply that there were moments when I just wanted to jump into the book quite literally to hug Sanjana. The end... Oh God... English language lacks the requisite vocabulary to express how beautiful it was. I never saw the climax coming... While I thought the underlying plot was something, it turned out to be something else entirely. In the last 3 chapters, my goosebumps refused to go away. Bhasme seems to be a master in plotting his stories. There were some typos in the book which are forgivable, but the language is very neat and contemporary. I like how in places it is so poetic and still dark and relevant to the plot. "Something rotten grew in that ominous garden, nurtured in the womb of the night, that had only seen fear, sorrow and death" Wow, sir.
I want to read it again, knowing what I know now and see if the story still feels the same. The last few pages had me feeling so heavy like something had affected me very deeply. I have recommended this to my mother and I can't wait to see her reaction to the last 3 or 4 chapters. This one is too good.
I want to read it again, knowing what I know now and see if the story still feels the same. The last few pages had me feeling so heavy like something had affected me very deeply. I have recommended this to my mother and I can't wait to see her reaction to the last 3 or 4 chapters. This one is too good.
December 9, 2019
Book Review : As Death Stared Back @bhasmewords
A psychological or paranormal horror book which elicit your worst nightmare alive so guys get ready to read this super amazing horror book which make you cry .Spine tingling scenes and eerie narratives make you edge of your seat. Simply unputdownable!!
This time Ajinkya you nailed it!!!!
And I mean it ,last 10 pages and story takes a sharp 180 degree turn ,this horror, supernatural book turned emotional and as Sajana world's start shattering in front of her eyes as tears started flowing from my eyes.
I'm really out of words to describe the feeling what I felt like when this book finished.
Hope my words justify your truly amazing talent to understand a mother's emotion, courage and her unending love.This book truly deserves more praise and applause.
Story:
After her husband, Punit's death, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare of Punit trying to kill their son. She rushes to his room and finds out that he has had the same nightmare.
Ten years later, dead husband shows up at their door.
Sanjana sees that he looks like Punit, behaves like him, and knows everything he knew, but she is convinced that he is not her husband.
As the evidences of Punit's death start disappearing, will Sanjana be able to save her son from this imposter and prove her husband's death before her sanity collapses?
Highly recommended to everyone
Truly worth it go pick your copy now.
A psychological or paranormal horror book which elicit your worst nightmare alive so guys get ready to read this super amazing horror book which make you cry .Spine tingling scenes and eerie narratives make you edge of your seat. Simply unputdownable!!
This time Ajinkya you nailed it!!!!
And I mean it ,last 10 pages and story takes a sharp 180 degree turn ,this horror, supernatural book turned emotional and as Sajana world's start shattering in front of her eyes as tears started flowing from my eyes.
I'm really out of words to describe the feeling what I felt like when this book finished.
Hope my words justify your truly amazing talent to understand a mother's emotion, courage and her unending love.This book truly deserves more praise and applause.
Story:
After her husband, Punit's death, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare of Punit trying to kill their son. She rushes to his room and finds out that he has had the same nightmare.
Ten years later, dead husband shows up at their door.
Sanjana sees that he looks like Punit, behaves like him, and knows everything he knew, but she is convinced that he is not her husband.
As the evidences of Punit's death start disappearing, will Sanjana be able to save her son from this imposter and prove her husband's death before her sanity collapses?
Highly recommended to everyone
Truly worth it go pick your copy now.
February 28, 2021
I have always felt a deep void in Indian Literature as far as horror genre is concerned. I do understand it isn't a child's play to craft such stories but still even the noteworthy attempts are pretty less. It seems like people have a set mental pattern that here readers only consume romantic tales or mythological fiction so they are better of churning the same to them. Off lately, after reading too many regular love stories, I wanted something to take me out of the reading slump, and hence I chose this one and oh boy, I am glad that I did as it is truly a masterpiece and honestly one of the best psychological horror stuff I have ever witnessed considering the movies into the account as well.
The story is about a closely knitted family of Punit, Sanjana and their little child Manu. Punit is quite a lovable husband but due to some intrinsic weaknesses of his kid, he doesnt like him much. When everything is going well, a sudden unfortunate happening leads to Punit's death and shortly after, his wife starts hallucinating about him. One fine day, she saw a scary dream in which her better half is trying to kill her son and to her astonishment , Manu saw the same dream too. At this point, the emotions are heightened and it seems like there is no turning back. But just when you as a reader feel that rest of the story will unravel the mystery of these weird dreams, Punit returns and behaves that nothing has happened but Sanjana is convinced that this person is anyone but not her hubby. Rest of the novel helps to bridge this gap between real and virtual world and the climax will leave you shattered, shocked and broken all at the same time.
There are books where one can pin point some strengths and shortcomings but then there are absolute genius like this which makes you wonder if a mere review can do justice to it. From building the suspense to augmenting the sentiments to right on your face twists, everything is woven with a tailor like precision. And the mention at the start that this book is based on reality, further send chills down your spine. The cover is pretty spooky though it could have been more creative so as to bear resemblance to the plot. Having said that,its a must read book if one is even remotely interested in this genre or want to explore it. If you like movies like 'Seven' where instead of extreme gory sights, most of the stuff happen in your brain, you will love this one too as it will shake the foundation of one's mental faculties and the psychological aspect is truly the USP of this novel.
The story is about a closely knitted family of Punit, Sanjana and their little child Manu. Punit is quite a lovable husband but due to some intrinsic weaknesses of his kid, he doesnt like him much. When everything is going well, a sudden unfortunate happening leads to Punit's death and shortly after, his wife starts hallucinating about him. One fine day, she saw a scary dream in which her better half is trying to kill her son and to her astonishment , Manu saw the same dream too. At this point, the emotions are heightened and it seems like there is no turning back. But just when you as a reader feel that rest of the story will unravel the mystery of these weird dreams, Punit returns and behaves that nothing has happened but Sanjana is convinced that this person is anyone but not her hubby. Rest of the novel helps to bridge this gap between real and virtual world and the climax will leave you shattered, shocked and broken all at the same time.
There are books where one can pin point some strengths and shortcomings but then there are absolute genius like this which makes you wonder if a mere review can do justice to it. From building the suspense to augmenting the sentiments to right on your face twists, everything is woven with a tailor like precision. And the mention at the start that this book is based on reality, further send chills down your spine. The cover is pretty spooky though it could have been more creative so as to bear resemblance to the plot. Having said that,its a must read book if one is even remotely interested in this genre or want to explore it. If you like movies like 'Seven' where instead of extreme gory sights, most of the stuff happen in your brain, you will love this one too as it will shake the foundation of one's mental faculties and the psychological aspect is truly the USP of this novel.
January 10, 2022
THINGS I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK
- The premise of this book, how it explored the effects of grief due to the loss of a loved one.
- The way it had me doubting myself about what was true and what was not.
- It's ability to keep me invested in the story throughout.
- The writing. Some of the descriptions were beautiful to read.
- The fact that it sheds light on mental health issues.
Now...
THINGS I ABSOLUTELY DID NOT LIKE
- The lack of basic research regarding certain things...... Like the fact that CYCLOSPORINE is an immunosuppressant and NOT an antihypertensive! (In fact one of it's adverse effects is causing high blood pressure) Also Haloperidol is an anti-psychotic, which at times was made clear in the book but at certain points it is indicated that it might have led her to have hallucinations, when it is in fact a quite powerful drug used to treat them? And hydroxytryptamine? It is just serotonin, folks. It is not available as a preparation.(As a doctor myself, this is something that irked me very much. Just a quick google search would've made things a lot better)
- Punit! My man, if your idea of toughening up your 5 year old is feeding him something you know he's allergic to, you should be one that's getting locked up. (Again, as a doctor, if something similar was done by us it would be considered criminal negligence at the least, if not outright murder, leading to imprisonment of at least 7 years) But his guilt (which is fudging deserved) is the only consequence. You killed your kid. You deserve much worse.
- Also, the writing. At times, the narrative reads like a fanfiction almost? And also, at certain points, let me just say there were some interesting choice of words.
- How every chapter had to end on a cliffhanger. It was interesting at first. But soon it became quite tiring, where I would wait for something drastic to happen to know that the chapter ended.
- The matter of how it shed light on mental health issues. The last suicide note Sanjana leaves? I hated that. Here are a few examples of what drove me up the wall.....
"You are the definition of the perfect husband. I just wasn't a good enough wife"
The divine light in his eyes bit.
The 'I wronged everyone around me' part.
Now these things would be perfectly good if only it had been challenged later that, "No. It was not her fault. Having mental illness is not 'wronging everyone around her' and was included only to note the toll her son's death took on her mind. But it wasn't.
Also, just my opinion, as you might have noticed, that Punit absolutely did not deserve her forgiveness.
Also, in a society where psychiatric hospitals are already seen as some monstrous places where the patients end up getting mistreated and tortured, this seemed to be determined to cement in that opinion? This might have been important to how the plot progressed, but doesn't mean I have to like the fact that it reiterates in the minds of the readers that psychiatric hospitals is not something they would want to resort to if needed.
(I might have gone into a lot of detail regarding the negative aspects, but seeing as there's not one review of this with less than 4 stars and which is not singing it's praises, I felt like this, especially considering the misinformation and furthering of stigmatisation, was important to point out.)
Edit: I almost forgot!!! I found the unreliable narrator trope to be done reasonably well in the story until I remembered that Dr. Karthik, who's supposed to be a hallucination gets their own POV?
- The premise of this book, how it explored the effects of grief due to the loss of a loved one.
- The way it had me doubting myself about what was true and what was not.
- It's ability to keep me invested in the story throughout.
- The writing. Some of the descriptions were beautiful to read.
- The fact that it sheds light on mental health issues.
Now...
THINGS I ABSOLUTELY DID NOT LIKE
- The lack of basic research regarding certain things...... Like the fact that CYCLOSPORINE is an immunosuppressant and NOT an antihypertensive! (In fact one of it's adverse effects is causing high blood pressure) Also Haloperidol is an anti-psychotic, which at times was made clear in the book but at certain points it is indicated that it might have led her to have hallucinations, when it is in fact a quite powerful drug used to treat them? And hydroxytryptamine? It is just serotonin, folks. It is not available as a preparation.(As a doctor myself, this is something that irked me very much. Just a quick google search would've made things a lot better)
- Punit! My man, if your idea of toughening up your 5 year old is feeding him something you know he's allergic to, you should be one that's getting locked up. (Again, as a doctor, if something similar was done by us it would be considered criminal negligence at the least, if not outright murder, leading to imprisonment of at least 7 years) But his guilt (which is fudging deserved) is the only consequence. You killed your kid. You deserve much worse.
- Also, the writing. At times, the narrative reads like a fanfiction almost? And also, at certain points, let me just say there were some interesting choice of words.
- How every chapter had to end on a cliffhanger. It was interesting at first. But soon it became quite tiring, where I would wait for something drastic to happen to know that the chapter ended.
- The matter of how it shed light on mental health issues. The last suicide note Sanjana leaves? I hated that. Here are a few examples of what drove me up the wall.....
"You are the definition of the perfect husband. I just wasn't a good enough wife"
The divine light in his eyes bit.
The 'I wronged everyone around me' part.
Now these things would be perfectly good if only it had been challenged later that, "No. It was not her fault. Having mental illness is not 'wronging everyone around her' and was included only to note the toll her son's death took on her mind. But it wasn't.
Also, just my opinion, as you might have noticed, that Punit absolutely did not deserve her forgiveness.
Also, in a society where psychiatric hospitals are already seen as some monstrous places where the patients end up getting mistreated and tortured, this seemed to be determined to cement in that opinion? This might have been important to how the plot progressed, but doesn't mean I have to like the fact that it reiterates in the minds of the readers that psychiatric hospitals is not something they would want to resort to if needed.
(I might have gone into a lot of detail regarding the negative aspects, but seeing as there's not one review of this with less than 4 stars and which is not singing it's praises, I felt like this, especially considering the misinformation and furthering of stigmatisation, was important to point out.)
Edit: I almost forgot!!! I found the unreliable narrator trope to be done reasonably well in the story until I remembered that Dr. Karthik, who's supposed to be a hallucination gets their own POV?
February 21, 2022
As Death Stared Back: Based on a Terrifying Truth
Book by Ajinkya Bhasme.
From the Amazon India Bestselling author in the horror genre, comes this bone trembling psychological horror based on absolute reality..
Just finished this book yesterday - it was fantastic, I mean I don't know how to express my feelings for it, but I guess you can see the rating and do understand how I felt about the book! It was so hard (at points) to read because of all that raw emotion it felt throughout - that's how you know it's a good book! You can say I am still now so much into the story, that it's so hard getting out of it and to read a new book, that's why the best I can do is by writing something about the book here..
This book is about the main protagonist 'Sanjana', who is shocked over the death of her husband 'Punit' and mothering his 5 years old son, 'Abhimanyu' alone. Both mother and son run into the same nightmare that 'Punit' tries to hurt/kill their son. After a few years 'Punit' returns and shows that nothing happened. The rest of the story is full of suspense, horror with lots of twists and turns, that's gonna put you in goosebumps, that's for sure. There would be a point after which you won't feel like taking a break from the story, which happened with me, and you definitely would be curious to know that what's happening next.... And you won't even believe that what gonna happen by the end, which will just keep you in some major shock!
This would be one of my favourite dark thrillers of this decade by an Indian author.. :) Starting from the cover - which gives a spooky feel, and till the end of the story, so well written.. The plot and the narration were so chilling! The paranormal presence in the book was so well done, that it does connect with the heart..
Now I guess I am lacking onto my words from expressing about the book!
Anyway, I definitely do recommend this book to all those who prefer thriller kinda story, they should go and read this one out.. I promise you are never going to complain! I am looking forward to reading one more book by the same author...
Book by Ajinkya Bhasme.
From the Amazon India Bestselling author in the horror genre, comes this bone trembling psychological horror based on absolute reality..
Just finished this book yesterday - it was fantastic, I mean I don't know how to express my feelings for it, but I guess you can see the rating and do understand how I felt about the book! It was so hard (at points) to read because of all that raw emotion it felt throughout - that's how you know it's a good book! You can say I am still now so much into the story, that it's so hard getting out of it and to read a new book, that's why the best I can do is by writing something about the book here..
This book is about the main protagonist 'Sanjana', who is shocked over the death of her husband 'Punit' and mothering his 5 years old son, 'Abhimanyu' alone. Both mother and son run into the same nightmare that 'Punit' tries to hurt/kill their son. After a few years 'Punit' returns and shows that nothing happened. The rest of the story is full of suspense, horror with lots of twists and turns, that's gonna put you in goosebumps, that's for sure. There would be a point after which you won't feel like taking a break from the story, which happened with me, and you definitely would be curious to know that what's happening next.... And you won't even believe that what gonna happen by the end, which will just keep you in some major shock!
This would be one of my favourite dark thrillers of this decade by an Indian author.. :) Starting from the cover - which gives a spooky feel, and till the end of the story, so well written.. The plot and the narration were so chilling! The paranormal presence in the book was so well done, that it does connect with the heart..
Now I guess I am lacking onto my words from expressing about the book!
Anyway, I definitely do recommend this book to all those who prefer thriller kinda story, they should go and read this one out.. I promise you are never going to complain! I am looking forward to reading one more book by the same author...
May 20, 2020
Who is actually dead and who is alive ? When reality and dream blends with paranormal activities this happens. Sanjana , Punit and their little kid Manu are a close-knit family . Punit is great as a husband but not as a father .Manu who took birth prematurely is not much liked by Punit for weak Manu needs exclusive care . Getting more distant from and irritated by his own kid , Punit meets an unfortunate end when Manu is only five years old.They are not only going through huge personal loss but there is some unexplainable unholy incidents occurring out of the blue and Manu is the target of the attacks . The dark gloomy atmosphere adds to more chills. She consults psychiatrist too but more secrets come out. I was not able to understand what's going on when one scene blended into the other and a man walks in after many years as if it's Punit again.Everything at this point was so complex and mysterious it felt like it's a scene straight out of some great psychological horror movie ! Narration was really done effortfully keeping catchy and the timings were maintained effectively . Storytelling was actually the essence of the story that fully justified it and kept the mystery alive till the end . I have included my full thoughts on blog.
November 11, 2019
This book just blew me away! The details, the story and the twists are so beautifully packed that I couldn't stop myself from turning pages.
June 19, 2021
As Death Stared Back - 5/5
By Ajinkya Bhasme
This was a brilliant little novella! I saw someone recommend it on instagram and thought ‘I have to get my hands on that!’
All I am going to say is - I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING! This is how you write a psychological horror! I can’t wait to get my hands on more of this authors work!
By Ajinkya Bhasme
This was a brilliant little novella! I saw someone recommend it on instagram and thought ‘I have to get my hands on that!’
All I am going to say is - I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING! This is how you write a psychological horror! I can’t wait to get my hands on more of this authors work!
December 27, 2019
Masterpiece! It is so heartbreaking and disturbing that it took me a few minutes to come out of the story after finishing it. This book will surely make you flip pages to understand how you missed the twist.
As Death Stared Back is a dark thriller which follows the story of Sanjana. Sanjana is devastated after the death of her husband, Punit, and raises their 5 year old son, Abhimanyu, all by herself. But both Sanjana and her son experience the same nightmares in which Punit tries to hurt or kill Abhimanyu. She also starts hallucinating about Punit after which she starts seeing a psychiatrist for therapy which proves to be helpful. Her world turns upside down when, after 10 years, Punit returns and acts as if nothing has happened. What's worst is that the evidence of his death starts disappearing. The rest of the story focusses on this mystery and how Sanjana does everything possible to protect her son.
There are some books that I recommend and then there are some that I whole heartedly request everyone to read and this one definitely falls in the latter category. Anything I say about the story will be a spoiler so I'll try to very carefully express my feelings about it. When I first started reading it, the story felt like a series of events that just occur. I couldn't understand what was happening and most importantly how it was happening. Just when something started to make sense, the twists made their way into the story and left me shocked and, in the end, shattered.
This is a story that needs to be read by everyone. I request you to read it and gear up for a really dark and twisty ride. I don't cry easy but this one made me tear up in the end!
As Death Stared Back is a dark thriller which follows the story of Sanjana. Sanjana is devastated after the death of her husband, Punit, and raises their 5 year old son, Abhimanyu, all by herself. But both Sanjana and her son experience the same nightmares in which Punit tries to hurt or kill Abhimanyu. She also starts hallucinating about Punit after which she starts seeing a psychiatrist for therapy which proves to be helpful. Her world turns upside down when, after 10 years, Punit returns and acts as if nothing has happened. What's worst is that the evidence of his death starts disappearing. The rest of the story focusses on this mystery and how Sanjana does everything possible to protect her son.
There are some books that I recommend and then there are some that I whole heartedly request everyone to read and this one definitely falls in the latter category. Anything I say about the story will be a spoiler so I'll try to very carefully express my feelings about it. When I first started reading it, the story felt like a series of events that just occur. I couldn't understand what was happening and most importantly how it was happening. Just when something started to make sense, the twists made their way into the story and left me shocked and, in the end, shattered.
This is a story that needs to be read by everyone. I request you to read it and gear up for a really dark and twisty ride. I don't cry easy but this one made me tear up in the end!
December 25, 2019
— OVEREXCITED ME —
OMG! OMG!
I am just utterly speechless in describing the feel I got while reading this book.
There are very few books and authors which make such great deep effect on us and specially in horror where it get even more harder to keep the reader hooked with it.
I have no doubt in saying that author here has done an incredible job for the same.
The story, is an combination of psychology and horror which actually gives us goosebumps at first and then is also capable of making us soo emotional till end.
As you’ll move ahead in reading, I am bet sure that u won’t be able to keep it down.
And did I told you that it is based on an real truth?
That fact just made me think soo much and increased my emotions to an much more extent then how they already were. And the twist which it is hiding.. Don’t even get me started there, it’s just an complete 180 degree rotation to the story.
I am just lacking low on words to explain myself completely.
It’s just one of the perfect books I read and completely utterly loved it.
The cover is such a thrilling one but still a love. And the narration is just superb.
The storyline and flow are wonderful which won’t let you divert even for a second.
I would just say to you that ..IT IS DEFINITELY AN MUST MUST READ.
Else you are really missing out something very great.
OMG! OMG!
I am just utterly speechless in describing the feel I got while reading this book.
There are very few books and authors which make such great deep effect on us and specially in horror where it get even more harder to keep the reader hooked with it.
I have no doubt in saying that author here has done an incredible job for the same.
The story, is an combination of psychology and horror which actually gives us goosebumps at first and then is also capable of making us soo emotional till end.
As you’ll move ahead in reading, I am bet sure that u won’t be able to keep it down.
And did I told you that it is based on an real truth?
That fact just made me think soo much and increased my emotions to an much more extent then how they already were. And the twist which it is hiding.. Don’t even get me started there, it’s just an complete 180 degree rotation to the story.
I am just lacking low on words to explain myself completely.
It’s just one of the perfect books I read and completely utterly loved it.
The cover is such a thrilling one but still a love. And the narration is just superb.
The storyline and flow are wonderful which won’t let you divert even for a second.
I would just say to you that ..IT IS DEFINITELY AN MUST MUST READ.
Else you are really missing out something very great.
October 14, 2021
This book deserves numerous accolades
This is the second book of the author that I have read and I have already become a huge fan of his writing. The story can be categorized into multiple genres. The beginning feels like something supernatural, then it feels like a thriller/mystery, the mid chapters make it look like a crime investigation, followed by a psychological angle, and finally, it ends on a very emotional note.
Each and every mysterious angle is explained wonderfully in the end leaving no question unanswered. Though the twist becomes a little predictable (if you could catch the clues given by the author) a few pages before it is revealed, still, the manner in which the final scene is portrayed and the way it plays out leaves you feeling awestruck and emotional.
The book follows a non-linear narration which is something the author had used for one of his other books as well. Non-linear narration if not handled properly can become really confusing. However, the complex narration has been implemented really well. This is easily one of the best books I have read so far. A must-read.
This is the second book of the author that I have read and I have already become a huge fan of his writing. The story can be categorized into multiple genres. The beginning feels like something supernatural, then it feels like a thriller/mystery, the mid chapters make it look like a crime investigation, followed by a psychological angle, and finally, it ends on a very emotional note.
Each and every mysterious angle is explained wonderfully in the end leaving no question unanswered. Though the twist becomes a little predictable (if you could catch the clues given by the author) a few pages before it is revealed, still, the manner in which the final scene is portrayed and the way it plays out leaves you feeling awestruck and emotional.
The book follows a non-linear narration which is something the author had used for one of his other books as well. Non-linear narration if not handled properly can become really confusing. However, the complex narration has been implemented really well. This is easily one of the best books I have read so far. A must-read.
September 1, 2020
Sanjana a mother of a teenager Manu both were living together in their house. Life is not at all the same as a single mother after the death of Punit Sanjana's husband. Now Sanjana and Manu both were living normal life, until one day when Sanjana's dead husband Punit comes back to their life after almost a decade.
As story moves Sanjana found out that Punit wants to kill her only son.
But the question is why should a father wants to hurt his only son?
" Sanjana carried Manu and rushed to leave. The pyre swallowed her necklace whole and let out an ominous cry. The log of woods and straw shifted and fell down.
"Keep your eyes closed Manu" said Sanjana running away.
Manu slightly opened his eyes behind her. The logs had fallen and something that seemed like a terribly burnt hand emerged out of the ashes clutching her mangalsutra. Manu gasped as Sanjana heard her husband's voice from behind- "will you not wait for me?"
Plot and Narration
The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing because of the lucid writing style of Ajinkya Bhasme. The horror theme of the story is handled skilfully throughout.
I certainly got chills so many times towards the end of this book. It certainly blew my mind.
A must read for the lovers of horror , mystery , thriller.
Highly Recommended
As story moves Sanjana found out that Punit wants to kill her only son.
But the question is why should a father wants to hurt his only son?
" Sanjana carried Manu and rushed to leave. The pyre swallowed her necklace whole and let out an ominous cry. The log of woods and straw shifted and fell down.
"Keep your eyes closed Manu" said Sanjana running away.
Manu slightly opened his eyes behind her. The logs had fallen and something that seemed like a terribly burnt hand emerged out of the ashes clutching her mangalsutra. Manu gasped as Sanjana heard her husband's voice from behind- "will you not wait for me?"
Plot and Narration
The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing because of the lucid writing style of Ajinkya Bhasme. The horror theme of the story is handled skilfully throughout.
I certainly got chills so many times towards the end of this book. It certainly blew my mind.
A must read for the lovers of horror , mystery , thriller.
Highly Recommended
March 3, 2022
I am just speechless!
💥A perfect dark thriller based on a story of a mother's love for her child and a not so loving father. This small family suffers a huge trauma and major loss of life.
💥I Must say it's a proper blend of psychological events with paranormal activities. All this happens juggling between the time frame but yet done so perfectly, connecting minute details and scenes that it gives you horrifying chills and keeps you hooked so well, that too till the end.
💥And those plot twists!
When you are about to recover and digest that one fact; here comes another horrifying twist in the story that just make your mind whirl and you simply can't make out whom to trust and who's actually dead or alive! Yes that's the whole point in the story!
💥Such a horrifying case written very well, which keeps you engaged since the very first chapter itself. Such thrillers are very rare to be found i think. So you should definitely try reading this one!
I just can't wait to read other two thrilling copies from the author!
💥A perfect dark thriller based on a story of a mother's love for her child and a not so loving father. This small family suffers a huge trauma and major loss of life.
💥I Must say it's a proper blend of psychological events with paranormal activities. All this happens juggling between the time frame but yet done so perfectly, connecting minute details and scenes that it gives you horrifying chills and keeps you hooked so well, that too till the end.
💥And those plot twists!
When you are about to recover and digest that one fact; here comes another horrifying twist in the story that just make your mind whirl and you simply can't make out whom to trust and who's actually dead or alive! Yes that's the whole point in the story!
💥Such a horrifying case written very well, which keeps you engaged since the very first chapter itself. Such thrillers are very rare to be found i think. So you should definitely try reading this one!
I just can't wait to read other two thrilling copies from the author!
July 22, 2020
Book Review - #AsDeathStaredBack by
As Death Stared Back, light is all that is needed to find the life inside.
When your eyes are the sole proof of reality, would you dare to believe that there are times when they lie?
I am a huge fan of psychological thrillers and after reading the first book by @bhasmewords, I just could not wait to read the second one and it was a perfect blend of horror embedded into the thrill of how your mind plays tricks with you.
In this intricately woven maze of a 170 pages book, you will feel all the emotions in a matter of hours. Starting with the death of her husband, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare that her late husband, Punit has come back to kill their son. This chilling revelation is further intensified by her shared nightmares with her son. And just when life seems to get normal, her husband walks back in their life in flesh and blood. With the evidence of Punit’s death disappearing, will Sanjana be able to keep her sanity at the same time protect her son from this imposter?
The whole book will make you question whether what is in front of your eyes is truth or a mere illusion, your mind is projecting to throw you off the track. What I like most about the book is that every page ensures that you read the next page without being able to put it down even once. This book by @bhasmewords is a perfect example of “Fewer words carry more weight when structured properly.” I loved this book from end to start and want that we get to see a movie based on this book very soon.. Overall Rating:
Cover - Chilling (5/5)
Plot - Terrifying (5/5)
Climax - Surprising (5/5/)
Overall - Loved it (5/5)
As Death Stared Back, light is all that is needed to find the life inside.
When your eyes are the sole proof of reality, would you dare to believe that there are times when they lie?
I am a huge fan of psychological thrillers and after reading the first book by @bhasmewords, I just could not wait to read the second one and it was a perfect blend of horror embedded into the thrill of how your mind plays tricks with you.
In this intricately woven maze of a 170 pages book, you will feel all the emotions in a matter of hours. Starting with the death of her husband, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare that her late husband, Punit has come back to kill their son. This chilling revelation is further intensified by her shared nightmares with her son. And just when life seems to get normal, her husband walks back in their life in flesh and blood. With the evidence of Punit’s death disappearing, will Sanjana be able to keep her sanity at the same time protect her son from this imposter?
The whole book will make you question whether what is in front of your eyes is truth or a mere illusion, your mind is projecting to throw you off the track. What I like most about the book is that every page ensures that you read the next page without being able to put it down even once. This book by @bhasmewords is a perfect example of “Fewer words carry more weight when structured properly.” I loved this book from end to start and want that we get to see a movie based on this book very soon.. Overall Rating:
Cover - Chilling (5/5)
Plot - Terrifying (5/5)
Climax - Surprising (5/5/)
Overall - Loved it (5/5)
March 6, 2022
Super scary that I was afraid of a little noise... This is my first horror book after many years and let me tell you ... The book scared the wits out of me.
The first half of the book has like another atmosphere, the other end has another! But totally enjoyed!Worth it!
All the twists and turns through out the book were just amazing owing to the main big twist that just shooked me!
I never had these vives from a book since last year when I read I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh. Yes, these two books have totally different plot and genres but the common thing is the big twist that comes in between!
.
Never thought would love this book so much but there were some cliches so gave it a 4 🌟!
.
Highly recommended 😁
The first half of the book has like another atmosphere, the other end has another! But totally enjoyed!Worth it!
All the twists and turns through out the book were just amazing owing to the main big twist that just shooked me!
I never had these vives from a book since last year when I read I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh. Yes, these two books have totally different plot and genres but the common thing is the big twist that comes in between!
.
Never thought would love this book so much but there were some cliches so gave it a 4 🌟!
.
Highly recommended 😁
August 23, 2020
4.5 Stars
A perfect blend of psychology and horror. It's definitely one of the best physiological thriller written by an Indian Author.
The story revolves around Sanjana and her Son Manu, who are haunted by her dead husband punit who appears 10 year's after his death. What is this imposter doing and what is he going to them? The book is the roller-coaster ride which will definitely keeps you puzzled throughout the read and will give you an unexpected twist in the end.
Kudos to the author to think about something unique like this. I'll definitely recommend reading this one and is going to check out his othet works as well.
A perfect blend of psychology and horror. It's definitely one of the best physiological thriller written by an Indian Author.
The story revolves around Sanjana and her Son Manu, who are haunted by her dead husband punit who appears 10 year's after his death. What is this imposter doing and what is he going to them? The book is the roller-coaster ride which will definitely keeps you puzzled throughout the read and will give you an unexpected twist in the end.
Kudos to the author to think about something unique like this. I'll definitely recommend reading this one and is going to check out his othet works as well.
November 11, 2019
Ajinkya has taken the art of thriller writing to the very next level. Post reading When the devil Whispers, I was eagerly waiting for the next book and the wait has surely been worth it. What can a bunch of mysteries lead to a blood curling and heart breaking end or a beautiful one, you should read to find out.
Must read for thriller cum horror loving bookworms.
Must read for thriller cum horror loving bookworms.
February 10, 2024
All I can say is: OH MY GOD.
I wasn't expecting the ending to be this way, and it's towards the end you realise why everything happened the way it did. It made sense in the end! Definitely worth the read, so glad I stumbled upon this book.
I wasn't expecting the ending to be this way, and it's towards the end you realise why everything happened the way it did. It made sense in the end! Definitely worth the read, so glad I stumbled upon this book.
March 13, 2022
Book:As Death Stared Back
Author: Ajinkya Bhasme
Publisher: Paper Towns
Pages: 184
Price: Rs. 249
Ajinkya Bhasme’s Death Stared Back does full justice to the psychological horror genre. You start rethinking about the mind’s true depth.
The book slowly plays with your mind and you realise that the horror is stuck deep within. You become Sanjana. You slowly follow her anxiety regarding Manu, her complex relation with Punit, the horror she and Manu lived in or are living, and more. The writer within Ajinkya has made sure the readers do not get a chance to stop for a few minutes to catch their breath.
Another fair point is the compact nature of narration. You follow each character’s journey easily. While the back and forth in narration can initially be a little unnerving, Ajinkya’s gripping storytelling keeps things going. The book’s first half does feel too unhurried. But once the story hits second gear, you are in for a ride. The story becomes more psychological and less horror. A word of warning: The unexpected can end hurt you, literally.
Ajinkya Bhasme’s Death Stared Back does full justice to the psychological horror genre. You start rethinking about the mind’s true depth
The mind is an unfathomable place. And things can go haywire when mind decides to play games with you. This is exactly what As Death Stared Back by Ajinkya Bhasme is all about. Falling under the psychological horror genre, the twists and turns cannot be missed. In fact, this rather pulsating drama is apparently based on reality.
Sanjana has lost her husband, Punit, and is going to cremate him. As the narrative progresses you slowly understand Punit’s dislike of their five-year-old son, Abhimanyu or Manu, a premature child not upto Punit’s standards. He has even attempted to kill Manu. After Punit’s death, Sanjana and the rather precocious Manu are bonded by nightmares in which Punit is harming Manu. Ten years later, the unimaginable happens: Punit returns home. Who is this imposter? How is he able to slowly make his death a myth? Why is her reality slipping out of her hand? Will she save Manu from the fake Punit’s evil clutches? What is real and unreal? The book delves deep into Sanjana’s journey where sanity is slipping away along with .
Author: Ajinkya Bhasme
Publisher: Paper Towns
Pages: 184
Price: Rs. 249
Ajinkya Bhasme’s Death Stared Back does full justice to the psychological horror genre. You start rethinking about the mind’s true depth.
The book slowly plays with your mind and you realise that the horror is stuck deep within. You become Sanjana. You slowly follow her anxiety regarding Manu, her complex relation with Punit, the horror she and Manu lived in or are living, and more. The writer within Ajinkya has made sure the readers do not get a chance to stop for a few minutes to catch their breath.
Another fair point is the compact nature of narration. You follow each character’s journey easily. While the back and forth in narration can initially be a little unnerving, Ajinkya’s gripping storytelling keeps things going. The book’s first half does feel too unhurried. But once the story hits second gear, you are in for a ride. The story becomes more psychological and less horror. A word of warning: The unexpected can end hurt you, literally.
Ajinkya Bhasme’s Death Stared Back does full justice to the psychological horror genre. You start rethinking about the mind’s true depth
The mind is an unfathomable place. And things can go haywire when mind decides to play games with you. This is exactly what As Death Stared Back by Ajinkya Bhasme is all about. Falling under the psychological horror genre, the twists and turns cannot be missed. In fact, this rather pulsating drama is apparently based on reality.
Sanjana has lost her husband, Punit, and is going to cremate him. As the narrative progresses you slowly understand Punit’s dislike of their five-year-old son, Abhimanyu or Manu, a premature child not upto Punit’s standards. He has even attempted to kill Manu. After Punit’s death, Sanjana and the rather precocious Manu are bonded by nightmares in which Punit is harming Manu. Ten years later, the unimaginable happens: Punit returns home. Who is this imposter? How is he able to slowly make his death a myth? Why is her reality slipping out of her hand? Will she save Manu from the fake Punit’s evil clutches? What is real and unreal? The book delves deep into Sanjana’s journey where sanity is slipping away along with .
September 1, 2020
As death stared back
By Ajinkya Bhasme
" I shall not wholly die , and a great part of me will escape the grave " - Horace
The Ebookbug Review of As death stared back , Genre Fiction thriller mystery horror
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme is a work of fiction and horror which will makes you question the existence of supernaturals.
Sanjana a mother of a teenager Manu both were living together in their house. Life is not at all the same as a single mother after the death of Punit Sanjana's husband. Now Sanjana and Manu both were living normal life, until one day when Sanjana's dead husband Punit comes back to their life after almost a decade.
As story moves Sanjana found out that Punit wants to kill her only son.
But the question is why should a father wants to hurt his only son?
" Sanjana carried Manu and rushed to leave. The pyre swallowed her necklace whole and let out an ominous cry. The log of woods and straw shifted and fell down.
"Keep your eyes closed Manu" said Sanjana running away.
Manu slightly opened his eyes behind her. The logs had fallen and something that seemed like a terribly burnt hand emerged out of the ashes clutching her mangalsutra. Manu gasped as Sanjana heard her husband's voice from behind- "will you not wait for me?"
Plot and Narration
The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing because of the lucid writing style of Ajinkya Bhasme. The horror theme of the story is handled skilfully throughout.
I certainly got chills so many times towards the end of this book. It certainly blew my mind.
A must read for the lovers of horror , mystery , thriller.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Rating 4/5
📓Why you should read this book?
✓ Amazing ending.
✓ Narration was excellent with Engaging storyline.
✓ Who said "I am fearless" read the work of Ajinkya Bhasme and you will get to know more about fear.
Highly Recommended!
Reviewed by
@ebookbug
By Ajinkya Bhasme
" I shall not wholly die , and a great part of me will escape the grave " - Horace
The Ebookbug Review of As death stared back , Genre Fiction thriller mystery horror
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme is a work of fiction and horror which will makes you question the existence of supernaturals.
Sanjana a mother of a teenager Manu both were living together in their house. Life is not at all the same as a single mother after the death of Punit Sanjana's husband. Now Sanjana and Manu both were living normal life, until one day when Sanjana's dead husband Punit comes back to their life after almost a decade.
As story moves Sanjana found out that Punit wants to kill her only son.
But the question is why should a father wants to hurt his only son?
" Sanjana carried Manu and rushed to leave. The pyre swallowed her necklace whole and let out an ominous cry. The log of woods and straw shifted and fell down.
"Keep your eyes closed Manu" said Sanjana running away.
Manu slightly opened his eyes behind her. The logs had fallen and something that seemed like a terribly burnt hand emerged out of the ashes clutching her mangalsutra. Manu gasped as Sanjana heard her husband's voice from behind- "will you not wait for me?"
Plot and Narration
The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing because of the lucid writing style of Ajinkya Bhasme. The horror theme of the story is handled skilfully throughout.
I certainly got chills so many times towards the end of this book. It certainly blew my mind.
A must read for the lovers of horror , mystery , thriller.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Rating 4/5
📓Why you should read this book?
✓ Amazing ending.
✓ Narration was excellent with Engaging storyline.
✓ Who said "I am fearless" read the work of Ajinkya Bhasme and you will get to know more about fear.
Highly Recommended!
Reviewed by
@ebookbug
July 10, 2020
The novel surely grips you from the very first words and it sways you in till the very last word. Sanjana is a very protective mother who is going through the loss of her husband and at the same time raising her son.
As the blurb says, her husband, Punit walks back in to the house ten years later and this is where the story kicks in. I applaud the author for blending horror with ‘domestic issues’. The story touches on layers which should be talked about in real life as well. I won’t call it a horror but a domestic thriller which makes your heart heavy in the end.
The words are poetic and so is the story. I would call it a complete circle of a story. The few issues I have with the story are on its structure and a bit of plotlines. The story constantly moves back and forth in time frame which sometimes made it difficult to understand. I think if the text were written in Italic whenever it went back in time would made it a bit easy for me. This would have neither spoiled the story nor would have made it out of the place. But then again maybe the author really wanted the story to be mingled and jumpy
Punit’s past could have been explored a bit more too. I also think Nipun and Mugs should have been integrated in a better way. There were some characters which I expected to be present in the climax. I love the climax where every important character is present. (Blame it on Poirot stories lol).
I will say it again that it is a story which touches many layers and should be read by all. I would give a double thumbs up for how Sanjana and Manu’s scenes are written in the end. While everyone is calling it a psychological thriller, I would instead call it a domestic thriller which has a very beautiful essence attached to it. Congratulations Ajinkya for daring to explore this genre and doing it in right way. I will look forward to read you.
As the blurb says, her husband, Punit walks back in to the house ten years later and this is where the story kicks in. I applaud the author for blending horror with ‘domestic issues’. The story touches on layers which should be talked about in real life as well. I won’t call it a horror but a domestic thriller which makes your heart heavy in the end.
The words are poetic and so is the story. I would call it a complete circle of a story. The few issues I have with the story are on its structure and a bit of plotlines. The story constantly moves back and forth in time frame which sometimes made it difficult to understand. I think if the text were written in Italic whenever it went back in time would made it a bit easy for me. This would have neither spoiled the story nor would have made it out of the place. But then again maybe the author really wanted the story to be mingled and jumpy
Punit’s past could have been explored a bit more too. I also think Nipun and Mugs should have been integrated in a better way. There were some characters which I expected to be present in the climax. I love the climax where every important character is present. (Blame it on Poirot stories lol).
I will say it again that it is a story which touches many layers and should be read by all. I would give a double thumbs up for how Sanjana and Manu’s scenes are written in the end. While everyone is calling it a psychological thriller, I would instead call it a domestic thriller which has a very beautiful essence attached to it. Congratulations Ajinkya for daring to explore this genre and doing it in right way. I will look forward to read you.
July 13, 2020
As the endless sky shone brighter, filling the dark night, it also revealed its biggest secret that most of its brightest lights hold the darkest stories within them.
.
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme
.
#intro
After her husband Punit's death, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare of Punit trying to kill their son. She rushes to his room and finds out that he has had the exact same nightmare.
Ten years later, the dead husband shows up at their door.
Sanjana sees that he looks like Punit, behaves like him, and knows everything he knew, but she is convinced that he is not her husband. As the evidences, of Punit's death start disappearing, will Sanjana be able to save her son from this imposter and prove her husband's death before her sanity collapses?
When your eyes are the sole proof of reality, would you dare to believe that there are times when they lie?
.
#review
Firstly it is amazing. Unpredictable from first page to last. Authors creativity to unfold the truth & shifting attention towards characters is appreciable. The first half part is totally a horror thriller & the real physiological experience starts after that. The whole story plotted around the centere character Sanjana.
With less characters & their sceptical role makes the whole story interesting & when the real truth unfolds, it's like what !!! The whole world become upside down. What I think & what I found. That's the key amusement in the story.
Moreover it teaches something that can't be expressed: the fear of losing someone.
It's like selfless love. *The only love that a mother can give to her child* ( sorry author 🙈)
No I don't want to spoil everything. So go & read this awesome physiological horror thriller.
.
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme
.
#intro
After her husband Punit's death, Sanjana wakes up to a chilling nightmare of Punit trying to kill their son. She rushes to his room and finds out that he has had the exact same nightmare.
Ten years later, the dead husband shows up at their door.
Sanjana sees that he looks like Punit, behaves like him, and knows everything he knew, but she is convinced that he is not her husband. As the evidences, of Punit's death start disappearing, will Sanjana be able to save her son from this imposter and prove her husband's death before her sanity collapses?
When your eyes are the sole proof of reality, would you dare to believe that there are times when they lie?
.
#review
Firstly it is amazing. Unpredictable from first page to last. Authors creativity to unfold the truth & shifting attention towards characters is appreciable. The first half part is totally a horror thriller & the real physiological experience starts after that. The whole story plotted around the centere character Sanjana.
With less characters & their sceptical role makes the whole story interesting & when the real truth unfolds, it's like what !!! The whole world become upside down. What I think & what I found. That's the key amusement in the story.
Moreover it teaches something that can't be expressed: the fear of losing someone.
It's like selfless love. *The only love that a mother can give to her child* ( sorry author 🙈)
No I don't want to spoil everything. So go & read this awesome physiological horror thriller.
July 11, 2021
The plot of the book is intriguing and the idea of meshing horror into a psychological thriller is very well executed. The first part of the book is a spine-chilling horror story that is almost guaranteed to send chills through you. The transition into the thriller part is excellent and seamless. I loved the detailed research that might have gone into the book as Ajinkya talks about some psychological aspects of human psyche. The thing that stands out in the book is the level of detail that Ajinkya puts in to tell the story. The book opens with a scene that conditions our mind to look at the story from Sanjana’s POV all through the way, tuning us into the fact that what she sees and believes is the truth. Apart from just words, he tries to entice the other senses to make the reader imagine the scenes as they unfold. One thing that didn’t work for me is the shifting timelines and at times it became difficult to comprehend the exact time the story as taking place in, and a mention of the year could have helped that part a bit. The climax is set up beautifully and the revelations are something I did not expect.
The characters are very well crafted, and the author has given due attention to detail to establish them. The character of Sanjana is set up so that the reader is very well attuned to her POV and is able to visualize the story Ajinkya set up, including the truth and the untruths. Punit’s character adds gravitas to the plot, and his appearances maintain the gory narrative of the plot. True to the characters, one scene in the book is pretty gory, one that flips the narrative. The character arcs are pretty flat and a switch in the aforementioned scene makes the characters’ actions understandable in hindsight.
The characters are very well crafted, and the author has given due attention to detail to establish them. The character of Sanjana is set up so that the reader is very well attuned to her POV and is able to visualize the story Ajinkya set up, including the truth and the untruths. Punit’s character adds gravitas to the plot, and his appearances maintain the gory narrative of the plot. True to the characters, one scene in the book is pretty gory, one that flips the narrative. The character arcs are pretty flat and a switch in the aforementioned scene makes the characters’ actions understandable in hindsight.
October 12, 2020
Content - After a few days of her husband Punit's death, Sanjana and her 5yr. old son Manu started having the same nightmares where Punit wanted to kill Manu. Sanjana started to feel like there were some kind of dark forces lurking in her house that wanted to hurt Manu. But amidst all of these, she raised her child well and he is now 15 yrs old. Sanjana is still taking psychiatrist's help to get rid of her nightmare which proves to be helpful. Suddenly after 10 long years, Punit returns and Sanjana and Manu's life turned upside down. But Punit acts like nothing has happened. Sanjana is determined that Punit is an imposter and has come to hurt them.
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What happened next is ofcourse a must read.
📖
📖
My Views - The book is a deep dark psychology thriller which starts as a bone-chilling horror story. The book,from first to last is full of twists and turns amd you cannot get up without finishing the book. Whenever you feel like now you understand what's happening, the story takes a 360 degree turm and will leave you in awe.
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Each and every character portrayed in the book is very well crafted especially Sanjana's. Her strong love for her son, her determination to save her son at any cost,her emotional turmoil, everything is beautifully expressed. The writing style and narration is very smooth. There are time frame jumps in the book but readers will not find it difficult to understand. The language of the book is also simple.
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Overall a very dark thriller with amazing plot. Definitely a must read.
.
What happened next is ofcourse a must read.
📖
📖
My Views - The book is a deep dark psychology thriller which starts as a bone-chilling horror story. The book,from first to last is full of twists and turns amd you cannot get up without finishing the book. Whenever you feel like now you understand what's happening, the story takes a 360 degree turm and will leave you in awe.
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Each and every character portrayed in the book is very well crafted especially Sanjana's. Her strong love for her son, her determination to save her son at any cost,her emotional turmoil, everything is beautifully expressed. The writing style and narration is very smooth. There are time frame jumps in the book but readers will not find it difficult to understand. The language of the book is also simple.
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Overall a very dark thriller with amazing plot. Definitely a must read.
June 5, 2020
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme
‘I feared the dark until I smiled in the fire that burnt me; now the dark fears me.’
Sanjana sees her husband everywhere even though he has been dead for over ten years. All she wants to do is protect her son, Manu who her husband detested when he was alive. One fine day, walks into her house her husband’s lookalike who looks not one day older than how her husband looked ten years ago. How will Sanjana protect her son and her own sanity?
This book is a well crafted psychological thriller with twists you wouldn’t see coming. The very first chapter gets you hooked on the book. There are time frame jumps in first few chapters of the book. It wouldn’t be hard to follow, if you are a seasoned reader, else it might get confusing.
The cover suits the story and the formatting of the book is good. Prepositions were used out of context in couple of places. Chapters were very accurately split and some ended with engaging cliffhangers.
The writing is lucid in the way that it gets across the point to readers effortlessly. The gloomy atmosphere is captured well from the start . Sanjana’s character is well built with suitable arc and an undertone of melancholy. The last two chapters were heartening and you couldn’t help but feel the agony of the character.
If you are newly venturing into psychological thriller, then this is the kind of book you should be starting with.
‘I feared the dark until I smiled in the fire that burnt me; now the dark fears me.’
Sanjana sees her husband everywhere even though he has been dead for over ten years. All she wants to do is protect her son, Manu who her husband detested when he was alive. One fine day, walks into her house her husband’s lookalike who looks not one day older than how her husband looked ten years ago. How will Sanjana protect her son and her own sanity?
This book is a well crafted psychological thriller with twists you wouldn’t see coming. The very first chapter gets you hooked on the book. There are time frame jumps in first few chapters of the book. It wouldn’t be hard to follow, if you are a seasoned reader, else it might get confusing.
The cover suits the story and the formatting of the book is good. Prepositions were used out of context in couple of places. Chapters were very accurately split and some ended with engaging cliffhangers.
The writing is lucid in the way that it gets across the point to readers effortlessly. The gloomy atmosphere is captured well from the start . Sanjana’s character is well built with suitable arc and an undertone of melancholy. The last two chapters were heartening and you couldn’t help but feel the agony of the character.
If you are newly venturing into psychological thriller, then this is the kind of book you should be starting with.
March 27, 2020
This was on my TBR list since it published. An impressive psychological thriller. After his first book "When the Devil Whispers". This book came up with lots of expectations and well it fulfilled it too.
So, the book speaks about a royal family and it's suspense. Well, every family has a bunch of suspense. Sanjana, Punit and their son Abhimanyu aka Manu were living as a happy family where daddy is strict and momma is lenient. Punit had unreasonable expectations from his son which he tried to achieve but as an average child, he failed it. Parents' odd expectations can lead to disastrous results. That happens here too, Manu tries but failed, at the age of 5 he was struggling to get his father's love. This is disturbing, and because of it, they met with unexpected events. Sanjana went crazy and started hallucinations. Things get uncontrollable and worst.
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There is a thin line between Emotional attachment and possessiveness which has been clearly expressed in it. Sometimes grief over someone can be fatal. It is fast-paced with intricate characters, who will make sure that you can't predict the end. I had thought that Dr. Shukla (character) would be the culprit and had imagined how to stay away from these kinds of characters in real life.😅 However, I was proved wrong.
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Still, you think you need recommendation to read it.
Rate 4.5/5🌟
So, the book speaks about a royal family and it's suspense. Well, every family has a bunch of suspense. Sanjana, Punit and their son Abhimanyu aka Manu were living as a happy family where daddy is strict and momma is lenient. Punit had unreasonable expectations from his son which he tried to achieve but as an average child, he failed it. Parents' odd expectations can lead to disastrous results. That happens here too, Manu tries but failed, at the age of 5 he was struggling to get his father's love. This is disturbing, and because of it, they met with unexpected events. Sanjana went crazy and started hallucinations. Things get uncontrollable and worst.
.
There is a thin line between Emotional attachment and possessiveness which has been clearly expressed in it. Sometimes grief over someone can be fatal. It is fast-paced with intricate characters, who will make sure that you can't predict the end. I had thought that Dr. Shukla (character) would be the culprit and had imagined how to stay away from these kinds of characters in real life.😅 However, I was proved wrong.
.
.
Still, you think you need recommendation to read it.
Rate 4.5/5🌟
December 9, 2020
🎐Book name- As death stared back
🎐Author- @bhasmewords
🎐Publisher- @papertownsindia
🎐Genre- Horror Fiction
🎐Rating- 5/5 🌟
🎐Review-
I chose to read this book at night! A BIG MISTAKE. Don't even try. Every single chapter goes to be more horrifying from the last one. The horror is very different from the usual self shown in movies or read in books. This book is interesting and can scare the hell out of you.
The cremation scene is described in a such a detailed way that you can clearly feel every single emotion stated.
The thoughts of the author presented in thw words of Manu are the best part. I just did fall in love with all that wisdom stated.
Every event in the whole book is unique and confuses you even more to know what comes next. The twist and turns going about in the chapters makes you hungry to know more. The shift between past and present is very well precised.
The plot is very new and intriguing. A complete page-turner. The mystery and confusion created is awesome!
If there was a chance to give more than 5 stars I would have immediately given it. In the end I would just like to ask, has no screenwriter or director came across this book? Why it isn't a movie yet!
🎐Author- @bhasmewords
🎐Publisher- @papertownsindia
🎐Genre- Horror Fiction
🎐Rating- 5/5 🌟
🎐Review-
I chose to read this book at night! A BIG MISTAKE. Don't even try. Every single chapter goes to be more horrifying from the last one. The horror is very different from the usual self shown in movies or read in books. This book is interesting and can scare the hell out of you.
The cremation scene is described in a such a detailed way that you can clearly feel every single emotion stated.
The thoughts of the author presented in thw words of Manu are the best part. I just did fall in love with all that wisdom stated.
Every event in the whole book is unique and confuses you even more to know what comes next. The twist and turns going about in the chapters makes you hungry to know more. The shift between past and present is very well precised.
The plot is very new and intriguing. A complete page-turner. The mystery and confusion created is awesome!
If there was a chance to give more than 5 stars I would have immediately given it. In the end I would just like to ask, has no screenwriter or director came across this book? Why it isn't a movie yet!
January 1, 2020
As Death Stared Back is a dark thriller which follows the story of Sanjana. Sanjana is devastated after the death of her husband, Punit, and raises their 5 year old son, Abhimanyu, all by herself. But both Sanjana and her son experience the same nightmares in which Punit tries to hurt or kill Abhimanyu. She also starts hallucinating about Punit after which she starts seeing a psychiatrist for therapy which proves to be helpful. Her world turns upside down when, after 10 years, Punit returns and acts as if nothing has happened. What's worst is that the evidence of his death starts disappearing. The rest of the story focusses on this mystery and how Sanjana does everything possible to protect her son.
The author's style of writing is great and lucid. The language was simple and easy to understand, even beginners can understand.
The author was able to develop great sense of suspense and horror throughout the chapters.
The cover added to it's horrific look.
The Title was very different and looks like goosebumps added to nightmare.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who love thrillers.
August 6, 2020
"𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐬. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲? 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡."
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme is as psychological horror packed with soo much detailing and mystical activities. The protogonist, Sanjana, a lovable mother, over obsessed on her son Abhimanyu get devasted when her dead husband Punit returns to life after 10 years. The first half of the story takes you through nightmares that happens simultaneously to both mom and son and Punit's efforts in killing his son Manu. Meanwhile, Sanjana and Manu attempts to prove Punit as an imposter while the rest of them accepts his sudden presence with no doubt. But here comes the Bhasme magic in the second plot which makes you question your own reality and existence. Each and every chapter's are interconnected which gets revealed only at the last few chapters of the book. The whole book is fast paced and it's completely a page turner for psychological lovers.
As death stared back by Ajinkya Bhasme is as psychological horror packed with soo much detailing and mystical activities. The protogonist, Sanjana, a lovable mother, over obsessed on her son Abhimanyu get devasted when her dead husband Punit returns to life after 10 years. The first half of the story takes you through nightmares that happens simultaneously to both mom and son and Punit's efforts in killing his son Manu. Meanwhile, Sanjana and Manu attempts to prove Punit as an imposter while the rest of them accepts his sudden presence with no doubt. But here comes the Bhasme magic in the second plot which makes you question your own reality and existence. Each and every chapter's are interconnected which gets revealed only at the last few chapters of the book. The whole book is fast paced and it's completely a page turner for psychological lovers.
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