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The Speaking Stone
Mumbai, December 2016: A young man found an ancient-looking piece of stone with strange images and Sanskrit inscriptions. A quest to know the origin of the stone brought him to the distant part of the country. Chandannagar, December 2016: A young vivacious historian woman read an old book on a century-old secret story about a little known part of the country. Her curiosity got the better of her as the book disappeared mysteriously before she could complete it. She reached a sleepy quaint state of the country to satiate her curiosity. Eventually they both met and their search began from the city museum to a far-flung rock mountain which revealed a century-old story of a seductive danseuse, her enigmatic lover, a string of her admirers, a painter with a photographic memory, a bird that could speak in many voices, a benevolent king and a gruesome conspiracy. And the most important clue to decode the final secret was with the missing part of "The Speaking Stone" But in the process of unearthing old secrets, their life was also in danger… To know more read... The Speaking Stone.*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
About the Author: Ratnadip Acharya is the author of two successful novels, Life is Always Aimless... Unless you love it and Paradise Lost & Regained. He is a columnist for the Speaking Tree in The Times of India. He contributed many write-ups in different collections of Chicken Soup for the Soul. He lives in Mumbai with his wife, Sophia and son, Akash. He can be contacted via the following channels Website: www.ratnadipacharya.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheRatnadip Facebook: www.facebook.com/ratnadip.acharya.5, Instagram: www.instagram.com/ratnadipacharya Twitter: www.twitter.com/RatnadipAcharya
About the Author: Ratnadip Acharya is the author of two successful novels, Life is Always Aimless... Unless you love it and Paradise Lost & Regained. He is a columnist for the Speaking Tree in The Times of India. He contributed many write-ups in different collections of Chicken Soup for the Soul. He lives in Mumbai with his wife, Sophia and son, Akash. He can be contacted via the following channels Website: www.ratnadipacharya.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheRatnadip Facebook: www.facebook.com/ratnadip.acharya.5, Instagram: www.instagram.com/ratnadipacharya Twitter: www.twitter.com/RatnadipAcharya
445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2019
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125 people want to read
About the author
Ratnadip Acharya
8 books40 followersA voracious reader who felt a deep urge within his being to narrate his original thoughts.
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/TheRatnadip
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
May 17, 2021
Was it fate that Saikat and Suvashini met together in Agartala or was it not ? For Saikat, he found a stone which has some ancient Sanskrit typography written on it. Whereas, Suvashini found an ancient historical book in the library which was somehow lost before. Both these incidents made them reach Tripura, from where their lives would be changing forever.
The whole book is based on two different timeframes - one in the 1900 century and another one in the year 2016-2017. In the start it gets a little bit haphazard to go to the different timeframes in the same read but then as the story moves forward they both have a link together and it all starts making sense.
And the most important clue to decode the final secret was with the missing part of The Speaking Stone But in the process of unearthing old secrets their lives were also in danger. Will they be able to survive and decode the mystery or won't they ?
If you are a historical fiction reader, this is a must! You are going to enjoy this book as a reader. And the best part is it's not only about decoding the stone mystery and leave it behind hanging there. The stone actually comes into use. Find out how and when by reading the amazing book by Ratnadip Acharya.
The whole book is based on two different timeframes - one in the 1900 century and another one in the year 2016-2017. In the start it gets a little bit haphazard to go to the different timeframes in the same read but then as the story moves forward they both have a link together and it all starts making sense.
And the most important clue to decode the final secret was with the missing part of The Speaking Stone But in the process of unearthing old secrets their lives were also in danger. Will they be able to survive and decode the mystery or won't they ?
If you are a historical fiction reader, this is a must! You are going to enjoy this book as a reader. And the best part is it's not only about decoding the stone mystery and leave it behind hanging there. The stone actually comes into use. Find out how and when by reading the amazing book by Ratnadip Acharya.
September 13, 2019
It’s a story of Saikat and Shuvashini. Saikat who got a speaking stone from a stall on the street and want to discover it’s secrets where he meets Shuvashini.
What is that stone all about? Discover now!.
.
The plot of the story is unique and interesting. I liked how the author started the story.
But, with every chapter, it was getting a bit tedious. There were too many errors and unnecessary details shared by the author. The narration is a bit boring though the author tries hard to keep the reader hooked throughout. This book has a lot about ancient times. The only reason why I was able to finish the book. There are some sketches that are super interesting, giving the reader a gist.
The writing style of the author is simple. The book could have been more interesting with proper editing.I liked how the author started the story with the backdrop of streets of Mumbai.
overall it’s an ok read.
What is that stone all about? Discover now!.
.
The plot of the story is unique and interesting. I liked how the author started the story.
But, with every chapter, it was getting a bit tedious. There were too many errors and unnecessary details shared by the author. The narration is a bit boring though the author tries hard to keep the reader hooked throughout. This book has a lot about ancient times. The only reason why I was able to finish the book. There are some sketches that are super interesting, giving the reader a gist.
The writing style of the author is simple. The book could have been more interesting with proper editing.I liked how the author started the story with the backdrop of streets of Mumbai.
overall it’s an ok read.
September 14, 2019
#qotd A fast paced , historical plot , with two parallel stories running , without interfering with each other , this is what a reader expects from any author, (atleast it goes with me .) Don't you think the same guys ? .
.
Thanks to @samvedna_ and @ratnadipacharya for sending me this book .
.
Coming to the story , in the first chapter , you find someone , unexpected (I guessed ) sitting in a bar , drinking , and all of a sudden the next morning he finds an interesting stone in the street of Colaba in Mumbai .
And the second protagonist of the story , shuvashini , from Chanda Nagar (Bengal ) finds out "Rajmala" , an old book , from the corner shelf of the library .
What makes the story interesting is , two different charecters , coming from two different part of the country , searching the same thing , but out of two different interest .
Not only that . Two stories are running parallel to each other one in present and one in past without hampering the other time zone .
Both the protagonists , desperate to unveil the story behind the stone , moves forward in an adventure , meets each other, risks their life, but finds a way to reach upto its core .
But , to be frank , and honest with you guys , I loved the ancient story of Tripura . .
.
It is quite appreciated on author's part , how he manages to bring together two different person with totally different personalities together in a same plot , side by side maintaining two different time zones . .
.
My rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you ask me , if I recommend it or not , yes it is . All those who love reading mystery , thriller, it's just for them , how they finds out the truth behind the speaking stone . Read it guys . It's worth your time . No kidding, it's a good read . .
.
Thanks to @samvedna_ and @ratnadipacharya for sending me this book .
.
Coming to the story , in the first chapter , you find someone , unexpected (I guessed ) sitting in a bar , drinking , and all of a sudden the next morning he finds an interesting stone in the street of Colaba in Mumbai .
And the second protagonist of the story , shuvashini , from Chanda Nagar (Bengal ) finds out "Rajmala" , an old book , from the corner shelf of the library .
What makes the story interesting is , two different charecters , coming from two different part of the country , searching the same thing , but out of two different interest .
Not only that . Two stories are running parallel to each other one in present and one in past without hampering the other time zone .
Both the protagonists , desperate to unveil the story behind the stone , moves forward in an adventure , meets each other, risks their life, but finds a way to reach upto its core .
But , to be frank , and honest with you guys , I loved the ancient story of Tripura . .
.
It is quite appreciated on author's part , how he manages to bring together two different person with totally different personalities together in a same plot , side by side maintaining two different time zones . .
.
My rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you ask me , if I recommend it or not , yes it is . All those who love reading mystery , thriller, it's just for them , how they finds out the truth behind the speaking stone . Read it guys . It's worth your time . No kidding, it's a good read . .
September 2, 2019
The allure of mysterious chase is always fascinating. The chase and thrill are always there. The cryptic clues and linking the puzzle pieces is enthralling. This is tried and tested narrative which is interesting provided the story is engaging. The “The Speaking Stone” by Ratandip Acharaya is a classic treasure hunt.
The story starts in Bombay when Saikat buys a stone from a hawker. The stone mesmerize him and it is only half portion. He becomes determined to find out the story and mystery behind it. Shuvashini is a history scholar who wants to do something original in the historical research. They two meet in Tripura. The story also takes place in year 1900 in the princely state of Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya. He is building a palace for himself and that is parallel story. Saikat and Shuva keeps on probing and what they find???
The story is spellbinding and keeps you engrossed. The language is first rate. The characterization of characters especially two main protagonists is well established early in the book. The way their love story progresses is very innocent and tender. There is no usual physicality as depicted in current books. The story is taken to logical conclusion and one clue leads to another. However, the pace could have been faster and editing tighter. Recommended to mystery and historical fiction buffs.
The story starts in Bombay when Saikat buys a stone from a hawker. The stone mesmerize him and it is only half portion. He becomes determined to find out the story and mystery behind it. Shuvashini is a history scholar who wants to do something original in the historical research. They two meet in Tripura. The story also takes place in year 1900 in the princely state of Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya. He is building a palace for himself and that is parallel story. Saikat and Shuva keeps on probing and what they find???
The story is spellbinding and keeps you engrossed. The language is first rate. The characterization of characters especially two main protagonists is well established early in the book. The way their love story progresses is very innocent and tender. There is no usual physicality as depicted in current books. The story is taken to logical conclusion and one clue leads to another. However, the pace could have been faster and editing tighter. Recommended to mystery and historical fiction buffs.
September 6, 2019
It was a twist of fate that Saikat and Suvashini landed in Agartala together and that their paths kept crossing. Or was it? For Saikat, it was a piece of stone with a sanskrit inscription that he found at a pavement seller’s stall that drew him in. For Suvashini, it was a book in the library that she couldn’t find when she returned for it and couldn’t even find it in the library’s database. It was piece of our country’s forgotten history that beckoned them both to Tripura and put them in each other’s path for their lives to be changed forever.
The book tells two parallel stories. One set in the 1900s and the other towards the close of 2016 & the beginning of 2017. As the book progresses, the readers are lead to draw connections between the two stories and how they are bound together. Some may even say that it is after all the same story with its chapters playing out almost a century apart. However, the author focuses mainly on our modern day protagonists to help play out the drama that had started a century ago. Through Saikat and Suvashini, he takes us on what feels like a treasure hunt. The interest that the book and the stone invoke in our young protagonists lead to something that the readers will not be able to see coming, maybe until the very end.
The protagonists, Saikat and Suvashini, felt very fickle to me at the beginning. It felt like they were taking on a journey on a whim. But as the story picks up pace, you get to see their characters develop and by the end of it, it feels like that they were, after all, best suited for this adventure. There are quite a few other characters that play a part in the saga that unfold in the pages. I cannot disclose much about them without revealing some spoilers, but yes, they play their roles in it perfectly. The one thing that I particularly liked about the book is the fact that in a time when most writers use vernacular words in their storytelling, the author has stuck to English for his narration. And though there is usage of Sanskrit words and Devanagari script, they are an essential part of the plot and completely justified. Plus, there are translations provided everywhere. The plot in itself is interesting. It took me quite a while to figure out where the story would go and even then there were quite a few things that I didn’t see coming. And the historical aspect of it only adds to the intrigue.
I am all about details and as such my only point that I can nitpick about this book is that I felt that there were places where the author could have provided more details with regarding to the settings. But at the same time I also understand that at 300 odd pages, it is already a big book, so the kind of details I expect would have probably slowed the pace and made it an even bigger book.
To round up, ‘The Speaking Stone’ offers its readers a dose of history with adventure, mystery and slight drama in the mix. It will keep you engaged with the plot and the images and charts provided in the book helps the reader picturize everything clearly. Definitely worth a read…
The book tells two parallel stories. One set in the 1900s and the other towards the close of 2016 & the beginning of 2017. As the book progresses, the readers are lead to draw connections between the two stories and how they are bound together. Some may even say that it is after all the same story with its chapters playing out almost a century apart. However, the author focuses mainly on our modern day protagonists to help play out the drama that had started a century ago. Through Saikat and Suvashini, he takes us on what feels like a treasure hunt. The interest that the book and the stone invoke in our young protagonists lead to something that the readers will not be able to see coming, maybe until the very end.
The protagonists, Saikat and Suvashini, felt very fickle to me at the beginning. It felt like they were taking on a journey on a whim. But as the story picks up pace, you get to see their characters develop and by the end of it, it feels like that they were, after all, best suited for this adventure. There are quite a few other characters that play a part in the saga that unfold in the pages. I cannot disclose much about them without revealing some spoilers, but yes, they play their roles in it perfectly. The one thing that I particularly liked about the book is the fact that in a time when most writers use vernacular words in their storytelling, the author has stuck to English for his narration. And though there is usage of Sanskrit words and Devanagari script, they are an essential part of the plot and completely justified. Plus, there are translations provided everywhere. The plot in itself is interesting. It took me quite a while to figure out where the story would go and even then there were quite a few things that I didn’t see coming. And the historical aspect of it only adds to the intrigue.
I am all about details and as such my only point that I can nitpick about this book is that I felt that there were places where the author could have provided more details with regarding to the settings. But at the same time I also understand that at 300 odd pages, it is already a big book, so the kind of details I expect would have probably slowed the pace and made it an even bigger book.
To round up, ‘The Speaking Stone’ offers its readers a dose of history with adventure, mystery and slight drama in the mix. It will keep you engaged with the plot and the images and charts provided in the book helps the reader picturize everything clearly. Definitely worth a read…
August 19, 2019
Book Title: The Speaking Stone
Author: Ratnadip Acharya
Format: Kindle
Book Title:
The title of the book ' The Speaking Stone ' is mysterious and thrilling
Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is an extremely artistic and exotic sculpture of a deity on a large stone which depicts back to many eras and ages back. Amidst the greenery, those sculptures look beautiful.
Plot:
The story is about a quest of a stone which is from an exotic era of yesteryears human life that is found in unvaried conditions in the busy streets of a city where life is faster than a bullet train, city of Mumbai.
Saikat and Shuvasini, the male and the female protagonists here are the seekers of truth of a stone that is found with a pavement seller on the beach roads. The stone tickles Saikat's brain and thus a challenging twist takes place. The story of the stone unfolds great mysteries and both the protagonists play important roles. The travel of the stone and the secret behind the Sanskrit inscriptions found to lead them from Mumbai to West Bengal to many other places.
This roller coaster ride of mystery, thrill, fantasy and exploring story is very well scripted by the author. With great amounts of mystery, the story is a definite page-turner.
What I like:
1. The awesome plotline
2. The characterization of the characters
3. The set up with which the story starts
4. The twists and turns as the story progresses further
5. A perfect mixture of fantasy, history, and science
6. Great storytelling by the author
What I didn't like:
The story is so engaging that no faults are found.
Characters:
The characters in the story are so intelligently interwoven that nowhere the reader feels bored or disjointed from the story. A very well and tightly written characterization of various actors in the story. The best part is the characters are all not only human but other forms of life and non-life too.
Narration:
A very gripping and engaging narration is found in the story.
Language & Grammar:
Simple, colloquial and quality English language with good vocabulary is observed in the story.
My Final Verdict:
An enchanting and mysterious story
Book Title: 4/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language & Grammar: 4/5
Final Rating: 4/5
Author: Ratnadip Acharya
Format: Kindle
Book Title:
The title of the book ' The Speaking Stone ' is mysterious and thrilling
Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is an extremely artistic and exotic sculpture of a deity on a large stone which depicts back to many eras and ages back. Amidst the greenery, those sculptures look beautiful.
Plot:
The story is about a quest of a stone which is from an exotic era of yesteryears human life that is found in unvaried conditions in the busy streets of a city where life is faster than a bullet train, city of Mumbai.
Saikat and Shuvasini, the male and the female protagonists here are the seekers of truth of a stone that is found with a pavement seller on the beach roads. The stone tickles Saikat's brain and thus a challenging twist takes place. The story of the stone unfolds great mysteries and both the protagonists play important roles. The travel of the stone and the secret behind the Sanskrit inscriptions found to lead them from Mumbai to West Bengal to many other places.
This roller coaster ride of mystery, thrill, fantasy and exploring story is very well scripted by the author. With great amounts of mystery, the story is a definite page-turner.
What I like:
1. The awesome plotline
2. The characterization of the characters
3. The set up with which the story starts
4. The twists and turns as the story progresses further
5. A perfect mixture of fantasy, history, and science
6. Great storytelling by the author
What I didn't like:
The story is so engaging that no faults are found.
Characters:
The characters in the story are so intelligently interwoven that nowhere the reader feels bored or disjointed from the story. A very well and tightly written characterization of various actors in the story. The best part is the characters are all not only human but other forms of life and non-life too.
Narration:
A very gripping and engaging narration is found in the story.
Language & Grammar:
Simple, colloquial and quality English language with good vocabulary is observed in the story.
My Final Verdict:
An enchanting and mysterious story
Book Title: 4/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language & Grammar: 4/5
Final Rating: 4/5
October 2, 2019
The Speaking Stone by Ratnadip Acharya takes us back in the early 20th century in the era of King Radha Kishore Manikya, ruler of Tripura. Though the book starts with contemporary Mumbai, we are continuously made to alternate between the past and the present. I really liked this piece of information about the King and his reign as I never heard of him. Without any doubt, the author has put a good amount of effort into researching the central plot and setting it properly. The story revolves around a mystic stone, The Speaking Stone, the significance of which is revealed towards the end of the book. Saikat is the protagonist of this novel who stumbles upon this enigmatic stone and sets on a journey to Tripura for discovering the truth behind its existence. In his journey, he finds Shuvashini who also travels to the same place in her academic pursuit. Both of them gel well with each other to work toward quelling their curiosities.
The story is well written and narrated. This being the debut work of the author has come out well. We constantly vacillate between the present and past and this smooth transition has been made possible by the author's writing. I specifically liked the character of Saikat whose curiosity triumphs his lack of a degree in the concerned education stream. His inquisitiveness renders him enthusiastic enough to take the challenge heads on and work toward solving the mystery. The writing style has been kept simple for every level of the reader to understand and enjoy it. The coherence of the story is fine and the character development equally well. Although the book takes you on a remarkable journey, I found it a tad bit long. The book exhibits an immense potential to become a phenomenal read but what holds it back is the editing which definitely could have been better. The narrative could have thus been crisper and engaging. Too many details apparently not serving any purpose might mar a reader's experience. Hence, it is advisable to polish the story with fine editing.
I loved the cover of the book, the title which perfectly complements the book and all of its characters. Although I was a bit annoyed with Shuvashini for her insincerity towards her prime motive, the excessively mushy conversations between two of the characters from the past; I, overall, liked the book.
The story is well written and narrated. This being the debut work of the author has come out well. We constantly vacillate between the present and past and this smooth transition has been made possible by the author's writing. I specifically liked the character of Saikat whose curiosity triumphs his lack of a degree in the concerned education stream. His inquisitiveness renders him enthusiastic enough to take the challenge heads on and work toward solving the mystery. The writing style has been kept simple for every level of the reader to understand and enjoy it. The coherence of the story is fine and the character development equally well. Although the book takes you on a remarkable journey, I found it a tad bit long. The book exhibits an immense potential to become a phenomenal read but what holds it back is the editing which definitely could have been better. The narrative could have thus been crisper and engaging. Too many details apparently not serving any purpose might mar a reader's experience. Hence, it is advisable to polish the story with fine editing.
I loved the cover of the book, the title which perfectly complements the book and all of its characters. Although I was a bit annoyed with Shuvashini for her insincerity towards her prime motive, the excessively mushy conversations between two of the characters from the past; I, overall, liked the book.
August 29, 2019
Ratnadip Acharya's The Speaking Stone is a riveting read. This is story of Saikat and Suhasini. Both of them are hundreds of kilometers apart. Yet both appear to be on the mission to decipher the secrets of the past that are embedded in stones.
The novel is a romantic thriller. The author should be lauded for the romance part doesn't hinder the fast paced narrative which is an integral part of any thriller. The characters are well etched. They pull you easily into their magical world. Two stories separated by ages run parallel and it is the success of author that he mends these two parts adroitly.
The language used in the book is lucid yet easy to comprehend. The book has ample twists and turns which will satiate the reading lust of every thriller fan. This is a must read book. Not to be missed for sure.
The novel is a romantic thriller. The author should be lauded for the romance part doesn't hinder the fast paced narrative which is an integral part of any thriller. The characters are well etched. They pull you easily into their magical world. Two stories separated by ages run parallel and it is the success of author that he mends these two parts adroitly.
The language used in the book is lucid yet easy to comprehend. The book has ample twists and turns which will satiate the reading lust of every thriller fan. This is a must read book. Not to be missed for sure.
September 13, 2019
This story starts at the note of Saikat strolls over Colaba neighbourhood and buys a mysterious half-stone found in the Colaba causeway and Shuvashini, a history grad who digs for a topic for her dissertation proposal. Soon he gets this piece of stone upon closely studying, he goes north-east parts in search of the missed piece. And the same goes with Shuvashini about the royal palace, mysterious mountains she had come across and decides to go Tripura. Hence the unravelling the mystery begins.
To begin with, This is a book of well researched with a perfect blend of science and history fiction. Both composed and thrilling. I didn’t have to wonder for too long what the connection between the title and the crux was- the two characters were built and developed due in the story unfolds its history and present timeline where expedition sprees. Observing the plot, lurking the twists and turns and following the findings clears a picture. I don’t think this is much of a review as this is unputdownable. As author narrating style made it quite simple and made us think of what next.
Needless to say, I love it when the story is based on adventure and this added value to it drawing hints, implications, abstract descriptions etc., to it. A novel would list a huge hit when it mystifies and drawing people attention to what might happen? In that sense - this it’s the spot.
Overall this was a good read.
To begin with, This is a book of well researched with a perfect blend of science and history fiction. Both composed and thrilling. I didn’t have to wonder for too long what the connection between the title and the crux was- the two characters were built and developed due in the story unfolds its history and present timeline where expedition sprees. Observing the plot, lurking the twists and turns and following the findings clears a picture. I don’t think this is much of a review as this is unputdownable. As author narrating style made it quite simple and made us think of what next.
Needless to say, I love it when the story is based on adventure and this added value to it drawing hints, implications, abstract descriptions etc., to it. A novel would list a huge hit when it mystifies and drawing people attention to what might happen? In that sense - this it’s the spot.
Overall this was a good read.
August 26, 2019
Dorothy Parker said that the cure for boredom is curiosity but there is no cure for curiosity. It is the curiosity that keeps our brain active. Based on the similar concept, The Speaking Stone, set in the astir streets of Colaba, Mumbai, brings forth a story of a stone that houses a tale of love, sacrifice and belief. A historical fiction that encompasses elements of mystery and romance as well, this book traces the journey of protagonists who decided to uncover the truth that remains hidden from the naked eye.
Satvik and Shuvashini are the two main seekers in the story who hail from a very different background. The quest to find out more about the ancient artefact (one half of the stone) brings them together. While Shuvashini is keen on finding a scoop for her thesis, Satvik is intrigued by the unidentifiable picture carved on the stone. Desperate to unveil the story behind that graven image, these two set out on an adventure that possesses a risk to their own life as well.
Read the complete review here: https://aliveshadow.com/category-book...
Satvik and Shuvashini are the two main seekers in the story who hail from a very different background. The quest to find out more about the ancient artefact (one half of the stone) brings them together. While Shuvashini is keen on finding a scoop for her thesis, Satvik is intrigued by the unidentifiable picture carved on the stone. Desperate to unveil the story behind that graven image, these two set out on an adventure that possesses a risk to their own life as well.
Read the complete review here: https://aliveshadow.com/category-book...
September 23, 2019
Whenever I find that a book needs my attention and not just casual reading, I keep it aside to be read either on weekends or whenever I shall get a quiet time from my schedule at a stretch so that I could complete atleast 100 pages in every sitting. Since two-weeks, I picked up Ratnadip Acharya’s 3rd book titled ”The Speaking Stone” multiple times while traveling to office in the Mumbai local but whenever I got a gap of a day or two, I couldn’t remember what happened even in the last page that I read hence I scheduled it for the Sunday of 22nd September and I completed 200 pages in a day and 100 pages today in 3 hours while waiting for my turn in the clinic.
Ratnadip is one author whom I have always respected for the topic he chooses to write his book upon because it always comes with philosophical tales and wordings which makes you self-introspect and understand the deeper meaning of life. This time with this book Ratnadip has written a completely different book than what he has written till date and I must say though I didn’t expect much with this topic, the story kept me hooked with it which made it possible to complete around 300 pages so easily in just two days. The narration of the story is bit slow but keeps you interested in what would happen next as the book involved two different timelines- one of 1900 era whereas the 2nd one based in 2016-17.
Like every other historical fiction where the book becomes very complicated with its innumerable characters and confusing timelines, Ratnadip has tried his best in this book to keep things as simple as possible. Though his book can’t be called a philosophical attempt this time but it is of the genre which blends suspense, mystery, history, fantasy, thriller into a great fiction story which is again inspired somewhere from a true story. I liked how author choses the idea of exploring North-eastern part of India as it automatically gives reader a sense of adventuring into a new path altogether.
I really liked how author was able to connect both the stories together in the last 1/3rd part of the book. It really becomes interesting by the end to know what exactly the truth behind the stone is that the protagonist takes too seriously which even involves us somewhere in the journey. I liked the chemistry that author develops between the characters- in both the eras. I liked how even in the modern set-up where love is in the air between the two characters still author doesn’t lose the focus from the story and doesn’t purposely insert intimate scenes. And- special mention how well Parul is described in the book. I am in love with this character. Also, each characterization in both the era is done so perfectly that you can imagine the story while reading in front of your eyes in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali kind of set-up.
Talking about the drawbacks, I would say the initial pages should have started with some bang that could have directly drowned the reader in the story rather than the gradual set-up which has been used which takes time to develop interest in the tale. Also, some more editing was needed with 50-60 less pages as it really becomes too predictable and slow at times. One static complain that I have with author is that the Cover Page of all his books aren’t interesting- though we say a book isn’t judged by its cover but such good stories and writing needs a good cover page for the readers to notice it.
Except these little things, I would say, with each book, Ratnadip Acharya is getting better. I rated his 1st book 3 stars, the 2nd book 3.75* and I would definitely give this book 4.25* out of 5 for the kind of suspense and mystery author keeps throughout the book. Kudos!
Thanks.
WRITING BUDDHA
Ratnadip is one author whom I have always respected for the topic he chooses to write his book upon because it always comes with philosophical tales and wordings which makes you self-introspect and understand the deeper meaning of life. This time with this book Ratnadip has written a completely different book than what he has written till date and I must say though I didn’t expect much with this topic, the story kept me hooked with it which made it possible to complete around 300 pages so easily in just two days. The narration of the story is bit slow but keeps you interested in what would happen next as the book involved two different timelines- one of 1900 era whereas the 2nd one based in 2016-17.
Like every other historical fiction where the book becomes very complicated with its innumerable characters and confusing timelines, Ratnadip has tried his best in this book to keep things as simple as possible. Though his book can’t be called a philosophical attempt this time but it is of the genre which blends suspense, mystery, history, fantasy, thriller into a great fiction story which is again inspired somewhere from a true story. I liked how author choses the idea of exploring North-eastern part of India as it automatically gives reader a sense of adventuring into a new path altogether.
I really liked how author was able to connect both the stories together in the last 1/3rd part of the book. It really becomes interesting by the end to know what exactly the truth behind the stone is that the protagonist takes too seriously which even involves us somewhere in the journey. I liked the chemistry that author develops between the characters- in both the eras. I liked how even in the modern set-up where love is in the air between the two characters still author doesn’t lose the focus from the story and doesn’t purposely insert intimate scenes. And- special mention how well Parul is described in the book. I am in love with this character. Also, each characterization in both the era is done so perfectly that you can imagine the story while reading in front of your eyes in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali kind of set-up.
Talking about the drawbacks, I would say the initial pages should have started with some bang that could have directly drowned the reader in the story rather than the gradual set-up which has been used which takes time to develop interest in the tale. Also, some more editing was needed with 50-60 less pages as it really becomes too predictable and slow at times. One static complain that I have with author is that the Cover Page of all his books aren’t interesting- though we say a book isn’t judged by its cover but such good stories and writing needs a good cover page for the readers to notice it.
Except these little things, I would say, with each book, Ratnadip Acharya is getting better. I rated his 1st book 3 stars, the 2nd book 3.75* and I would definitely give this book 4.25* out of 5 for the kind of suspense and mystery author keeps throughout the book. Kudos!
Thanks.
WRITING BUDDHA
September 20, 2019
Can a stone speak, or can it posses a whole story which can travel for a century?
The speaking stone by Ratandip Acharya is a historical thriller fiction which has resemblance with the reality.
The book has story about two different centuries 1900 and 2016-17, in 2016 Saikat finds a half piece of stone through a street vendor, but his curiosity to know about to know about the stone takes him to an unplanned journey, full of mystery and mysterious secrets.
On his journey to unknown path, Saiket meets up with Shuvashini incidently who wants to get a doctorate and find out the treasure and secrets hidden in Tripura especially Unakoti.
The novel runs two parallel story, one that of 1900, about the old kingdom where there is a king, a beautiful dancer Parul, a master sculptor Dipankar, a bird, and some conspirators.
Does this two parallel stories of different centuries have anything in common, and how is the speaking stone related to all the characters of past and present?
To find out read this historical thriller and find how the stone will speak and will it ever meet it's other half part?
The book first of all is based on an interesting concept, of creating a fiction out of reality, I mean we as a reader can verify half of the facts and they are supposed to be true, but how beautifully has author managed to insert his imagination into the reality and created a masterpiece story out of it.
Another important thing this book makes us realise is that the states that are often ignored on tourism scale, have so many things to explore, like Tripura.
Story is completely a masterpiece with a great narration in the modern part of it, though it becomes a little tough for readers to switch between the two stories in the consecutive chapters which could have been avoided with a better arrangement for both the stories.
Climax part is something where this structure comes into use, as it makes things really exciting for readers, as we can easily relate each and everything happening in both the stories.
Characters are very important and beautifully developed by the author, especially writing two different stories of two centuries and making characters relatable by their characteristics and especially that of Parul, Dipankar, Indra to Saikat, Shuva, Indrajit.
The book has mystery and suspense throughout for the characters within the story and for the readers reading it.
It's all about exploring this amazingly written historical thriller, if you can.
So don't miss out if you love solving puzzles and mystery games and find the thrill in search of the speaking stone.
The speaking stone by Ratandip Acharya is a historical thriller fiction which has resemblance with the reality.
The book has story about two different centuries 1900 and 2016-17, in 2016 Saikat finds a half piece of stone through a street vendor, but his curiosity to know about to know about the stone takes him to an unplanned journey, full of mystery and mysterious secrets.
On his journey to unknown path, Saiket meets up with Shuvashini incidently who wants to get a doctorate and find out the treasure and secrets hidden in Tripura especially Unakoti.
The novel runs two parallel story, one that of 1900, about the old kingdom where there is a king, a beautiful dancer Parul, a master sculptor Dipankar, a bird, and some conspirators.
Does this two parallel stories of different centuries have anything in common, and how is the speaking stone related to all the characters of past and present?
To find out read this historical thriller and find how the stone will speak and will it ever meet it's other half part?
The book first of all is based on an interesting concept, of creating a fiction out of reality, I mean we as a reader can verify half of the facts and they are supposed to be true, but how beautifully has author managed to insert his imagination into the reality and created a masterpiece story out of it.
Another important thing this book makes us realise is that the states that are often ignored on tourism scale, have so many things to explore, like Tripura.
Story is completely a masterpiece with a great narration in the modern part of it, though it becomes a little tough for readers to switch between the two stories in the consecutive chapters which could have been avoided with a better arrangement for both the stories.
Climax part is something where this structure comes into use, as it makes things really exciting for readers, as we can easily relate each and everything happening in both the stories.
Characters are very important and beautifully developed by the author, especially writing two different stories of two centuries and making characters relatable by their characteristics and especially that of Parul, Dipankar, Indra to Saikat, Shuva, Indrajit.
The book has mystery and suspense throughout for the characters within the story and for the readers reading it.
It's all about exploring this amazingly written historical thriller, if you can.
So don't miss out if you love solving puzzles and mystery games and find the thrill in search of the speaking stone.
December 2, 2019
To what length would you go to quench your curiosity? In Ratnadip Acharya's novel 'The Speaking Stone', Saikat finds a unique piece of stone that changes the course of his life forever. His curiosity gains new heights as he soon finds himself amid nature in Tripura, with a girl who struck his eye at first sight. Shuvashini, in a pursuit to complete her dissertation, finds herself embarking on a mysterious journey with a guy she barely knows. But with a century-old story of a beautiful dancer, her enigmatic lover, a painter with a photographic memory and the piece of speaking stone, there is an age-long mystery waiting to be told.
It was everything one could ever want in historical fiction. Past and present came together in such unique unison. I'm madly in love with this book, and the characters in it. The plot is so well-packed and amazingly well-researched. The mystery and thrill was such a strong element in this novel. It was detailed and the rich Indian historical element in the book just made it so much better. There was not one part of the book I wanted to skip. I, honestly, can't get enough of it. I have no complaints about this book.
Honestly, for this book don't judge it by its cover, it doesn't do justice to the mastery in the writing. It is simple, yet fulfilling. It is definitely my most favourite read this year.
If there is ever a historical fiction you would want to explore, read this one without a doubt. Also, mystery lovers, this book is for you. If this book has a part two I would read it. Hell! If it's a series, I would read each one of them. The author is brilliant in his creation.
To read more such detailed reviews, check out my bookstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mystic_tale...
It was everything one could ever want in historical fiction. Past and present came together in such unique unison. I'm madly in love with this book, and the characters in it. The plot is so well-packed and amazingly well-researched. The mystery and thrill was such a strong element in this novel. It was detailed and the rich Indian historical element in the book just made it so much better. There was not one part of the book I wanted to skip. I, honestly, can't get enough of it. I have no complaints about this book.
Honestly, for this book don't judge it by its cover, it doesn't do justice to the mastery in the writing. It is simple, yet fulfilling. It is definitely my most favourite read this year.
If there is ever a historical fiction you would want to explore, read this one without a doubt. Also, mystery lovers, this book is for you. If this book has a part two I would read it. Hell! If it's a series, I would read each one of them. The author is brilliant in his creation.
To read more such detailed reviews, check out my bookstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mystic_tale...
September 1, 2019
Each one of us loves to shop from the local flea markets because of the deals and most of it because of coming across some really interesting objects. Then there are some people who tend to obsess over a thing that they see and rest only once they find what they are looking for.
Meet Saikat, the male protagonist of The Speaking Stone by Ratnadip Acharya. The book opens with him being stone drunk at a bar in Mumbai from where he is escorted out after closing hours and he decides to spend the night in his car. In the morning, he takes a call to have breakfast at the famous Café Leopold in Colaba. While coming out of the café, he notices a person setting up shop at the causeway and is pulled towards him seeing a stone statue with him. Even though he did not know why, he felt a connection to the statue and he bought it. The seller told him that it was called “The Speaking Stone”. On the other side of the country, Shuvashini Guha, a doctorate aspirant had her hopes cut short because her topic was rejected by a reputed historian and was asked to find a new topic and thus she trudges to the library and tries to look for something when she comes across an old book, “Stories beyond and after Rajmala”. Though she was shown the door as the library closed for the day, a thought began taking shape in her mind. Meanwhile, our protagonist was at his wits end about the statue and decided to find the seller to help him figure it out. His search led him to an old Parsi neighbourhood which finally have him some idea. Based on his, ne narrowed his search to Tripura and made up his mind to go there. Our female lead, Shuvashini also decided to take her research ahead and her path also led her to Tripura and as fate would have it, Saikat and Shuvashini were incidentally bound for the same destination. Their common ideas finally make them team up and a wonderful story of love, betrayal and treasure starts unravelling. From the city Museum to a far-flung mountain with rock carvings, The Speaking Stone then decodes a mystery that was shrouded from the people for a long time.
The Speaking Stone is a wonderfully constructed story with many minute details woven into the plot. The book initially moves as 3 parallel tracks which then coalesce into 2. The historical plot is also wonderfully crafted with each character having a parallel character in the present time. Throughout the plot, the author has dropped many hints, which in hindsight connect many plot points. He has taken a local folktale and created an amazing fictional account around it. It is a decently paced plot with emphasis as and when required. Nowhere does the attention of the reader gets diverted.
As for the characters, Ratnadip has taken great effort to give credible and interesting backstories to each of his characters. It makes them a lot believeable and their actions seem justified, be it any of the characters. The description of each character is quite vivid and it helps you paint a picture of them in your minds and then the rest becomes easier to comprehend.
The climax of the book is praiseworthy and it was not something that can be guessed earlier. The build up is great as well.
This historical thriller gets a 4.75/5 from me.
P.S. Look out for a surprise in the plot.
P.P.S. Read the Author’s warning in the beginning of the book!!!!
Meet Saikat, the male protagonist of The Speaking Stone by Ratnadip Acharya. The book opens with him being stone drunk at a bar in Mumbai from where he is escorted out after closing hours and he decides to spend the night in his car. In the morning, he takes a call to have breakfast at the famous Café Leopold in Colaba. While coming out of the café, he notices a person setting up shop at the causeway and is pulled towards him seeing a stone statue with him. Even though he did not know why, he felt a connection to the statue and he bought it. The seller told him that it was called “The Speaking Stone”. On the other side of the country, Shuvashini Guha, a doctorate aspirant had her hopes cut short because her topic was rejected by a reputed historian and was asked to find a new topic and thus she trudges to the library and tries to look for something when she comes across an old book, “Stories beyond and after Rajmala”. Though she was shown the door as the library closed for the day, a thought began taking shape in her mind. Meanwhile, our protagonist was at his wits end about the statue and decided to find the seller to help him figure it out. His search led him to an old Parsi neighbourhood which finally have him some idea. Based on his, ne narrowed his search to Tripura and made up his mind to go there. Our female lead, Shuvashini also decided to take her research ahead and her path also led her to Tripura and as fate would have it, Saikat and Shuvashini were incidentally bound for the same destination. Their common ideas finally make them team up and a wonderful story of love, betrayal and treasure starts unravelling. From the city Museum to a far-flung mountain with rock carvings, The Speaking Stone then decodes a mystery that was shrouded from the people for a long time.
The Speaking Stone is a wonderfully constructed story with many minute details woven into the plot. The book initially moves as 3 parallel tracks which then coalesce into 2. The historical plot is also wonderfully crafted with each character having a parallel character in the present time. Throughout the plot, the author has dropped many hints, which in hindsight connect many plot points. He has taken a local folktale and created an amazing fictional account around it. It is a decently paced plot with emphasis as and when required. Nowhere does the attention of the reader gets diverted.
As for the characters, Ratnadip has taken great effort to give credible and interesting backstories to each of his characters. It makes them a lot believeable and their actions seem justified, be it any of the characters. The description of each character is quite vivid and it helps you paint a picture of them in your minds and then the rest becomes easier to comprehend.
The climax of the book is praiseworthy and it was not something that can be guessed earlier. The build up is great as well.
This historical thriller gets a 4.75/5 from me.
P.S. Look out for a surprise in the plot.
P.P.S. Read the Author’s warning in the beginning of the book!!!!
September 15, 2019
The cover of this book intrigued me. I saw a beautiful idol carved on a gigantic rock, a couple holding hands under a full moon night, perfect setting for a budding romance. What actually caught my attention as a reader was, why would a couple choose a mysterious place like this and under what circumstances?
.
This aroused my curiosity and in order to delve deeper, I started reading this book. I simply loved the prologue depicting a beautiful romance between two pigeons so vivid that I could actually visualize and paint a picture of it in my mind.
.
Meet Saikat, our main protagonist who hails from an affluent family, with a very charismatic countenance to boast off. One day, after a late night drinking binge with his friends and spending a night sleeping in his car, he comes across a pavement seller selling some goods. He spots a beautifully carved stone and is immediately drawn to it! What amazed and surprised him was that this stone was cut in half vertically with something written in Sanskrit behind the stone. This sparks an unusual interest in Saikat who goes on a mission to find the missing half of this stone.
.
Let’s meet Shuvashini, another important character in this book, a history student working on her PHD. She is disheartened when the thesis she’s working on gets nullified and disapproved. This shatters her dreams and she decides to rework her topic for PHD which brings her to Tripura. At this juncture, both the main characters are oblivious of the fact that they are in the pursuit of chasing the same goal.
.
What I really liked about this book is the wonderful amalgamation of history and transition of two beautiful stories running parallel; one based in Tripura in early 1900 between Parul and her lover (you have to read the book to find out) and the other depicting Saikat’s and Shuvashini’s love story. I loved the narrative especially a beautiful blossoming love story between Parul, the danseuse with mesmerizing beauty that could captivate anyone’s heart and her lover.
.
What intrigued me was the plot and how Saikat and Shuvashini manage to find the other missing half of the stone. There are a lot of scenes in the story that will make you cringe and hope that everything works out in their favor. Will Parul’s love story survive the challenges of their time? Will Saikat and Shuvashini’s love story blossom and see the light of day?
.
It’s a beautiful piece of fiction set with a well-researched historical backdrop. I loved the story, however the editing could have been crisper and to the point. Some sections were a drag and could have been easily avoided. If you are looking for a thriller with a twist of romance and history then this is a go-to book. I would definitely recommend it.
.
This aroused my curiosity and in order to delve deeper, I started reading this book. I simply loved the prologue depicting a beautiful romance between two pigeons so vivid that I could actually visualize and paint a picture of it in my mind.
.
Meet Saikat, our main protagonist who hails from an affluent family, with a very charismatic countenance to boast off. One day, after a late night drinking binge with his friends and spending a night sleeping in his car, he comes across a pavement seller selling some goods. He spots a beautifully carved stone and is immediately drawn to it! What amazed and surprised him was that this stone was cut in half vertically with something written in Sanskrit behind the stone. This sparks an unusual interest in Saikat who goes on a mission to find the missing half of this stone.
.
Let’s meet Shuvashini, another important character in this book, a history student working on her PHD. She is disheartened when the thesis she’s working on gets nullified and disapproved. This shatters her dreams and she decides to rework her topic for PHD which brings her to Tripura. At this juncture, both the main characters are oblivious of the fact that they are in the pursuit of chasing the same goal.
.
What I really liked about this book is the wonderful amalgamation of history and transition of two beautiful stories running parallel; one based in Tripura in early 1900 between Parul and her lover (you have to read the book to find out) and the other depicting Saikat’s and Shuvashini’s love story. I loved the narrative especially a beautiful blossoming love story between Parul, the danseuse with mesmerizing beauty that could captivate anyone’s heart and her lover.
.
What intrigued me was the plot and how Saikat and Shuvashini manage to find the other missing half of the stone. There are a lot of scenes in the story that will make you cringe and hope that everything works out in their favor. Will Parul’s love story survive the challenges of their time? Will Saikat and Shuvashini’s love story blossom and see the light of day?
.
It’s a beautiful piece of fiction set with a well-researched historical backdrop. I loved the story, however the editing could have been crisper and to the point. Some sections were a drag and could have been easily avoided. If you are looking for a thriller with a twist of romance and history then this is a go-to book. I would definitely recommend it.
September 7, 2019
First big thanks to author Ratandip Acharya for providing me a review copy.
The Speaking Stone.
Rarely it happens when I select the book and it surprise me! (In a good way I mean!)
When I picked the book, I was expecting to read a good book as the blurb was amazing. But to my surprise once I started it, I just can’t put it down. I was so much into it that I completely ignored my BoTM.
Ratings
Plot and Language - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pace of the Book - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Character Building - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
OverAll Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The book is written in very simple language and it’s easy to read for all age group young and adult. The characters of the book so life like. Once you start reading you get more and more curious for it. For me the book was just unputdownable.
The story of the book is written in two different times, one in the start of the 20th century and one is the current time. The whole concept of the book is on our protagonist Saikat from Mumbai getting a stone which was named as speaking stone. And once he has possession of the stone, he is restless to find it’s origin and it’s history, while parallelly the story tells us about the history of the Speaking Stone.
This quest of Saiket takes him to journey of the mystical land of Tripura, where he will meet Shuvashini, they form a strong bond of trust which grows in something more and both together starts looking for the answers regarding all the riddles of Speaking stone.
What I like most of about the book is that the book is well researched and written brilliantly. The way author has connected history of Tripura with his fictional story is remarkable. I love all the historical details author has given about the Tripura and it creates curiosity for me to visit this beautiful but less explored state of our country.
The writing style is really simple, yet it shows great potential from the author, characters are also life like, all the events described in the book are so well placed it’s hard to believe that it’s a fiction.
I will recommend this book to everyone, new authors which such potential must me recognised and so the books!!
The Speaking Stone.
Rarely it happens when I select the book and it surprise me! (In a good way I mean!)
When I picked the book, I was expecting to read a good book as the blurb was amazing. But to my surprise once I started it, I just can’t put it down. I was so much into it that I completely ignored my BoTM.
Ratings
Plot and Language - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pace of the Book - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Character Building - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
OverAll Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The book is written in very simple language and it’s easy to read for all age group young and adult. The characters of the book so life like. Once you start reading you get more and more curious for it. For me the book was just unputdownable.
The story of the book is written in two different times, one in the start of the 20th century and one is the current time. The whole concept of the book is on our protagonist Saikat from Mumbai getting a stone which was named as speaking stone. And once he has possession of the stone, he is restless to find it’s origin and it’s history, while parallelly the story tells us about the history of the Speaking Stone.
This quest of Saiket takes him to journey of the mystical land of Tripura, where he will meet Shuvashini, they form a strong bond of trust which grows in something more and both together starts looking for the answers regarding all the riddles of Speaking stone.
What I like most of about the book is that the book is well researched and written brilliantly. The way author has connected history of Tripura with his fictional story is remarkable. I love all the historical details author has given about the Tripura and it creates curiosity for me to visit this beautiful but less explored state of our country.
The writing style is really simple, yet it shows great potential from the author, characters are also life like, all the events described in the book are so well placed it’s hard to believe that it’s a fiction.
I will recommend this book to everyone, new authors which such potential must me recognised and so the books!!
September 7, 2019
My Take:
A beautifully crafted book. The research and the depth of the thinking is very prominently highlighted. Jumping from the busy Mumbai to Chandannagar to Tiripura to Unakoti this one is simply unputdownable.
Saikat chances upon a stone with a seller and on a whim buys the half stone. The stone has depictions of Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha and a beautiful lady and a few Sanskrit words written.Curiosity piqued he starts observing it carefully and tries locating the place where these could be found. A few descriptions from the seller and he decides to solve the mystery by finding the other stone which has the remaining set of clues.
Shuvashini is interested in history and culture and wishes to do her PhD in the same. But after being snubbed by the mentor and determined to prove her wrong she visits the library and picks a book on Rajmala.Only to not find it the next day. She starts reading about Tripura and decides to visit the city for more research.
When they both meet and start exploring the city and musuem they get more clues and set for an adventure of finding the treasure. But there are people who have found them suspicious and are on their trail .The adventure begins . Will they be able to crack the mystery? Or it gets lost forever? Read to find out.
The story jumps between the past and present and yet maintains the rhythm which is commendable. The narration is smooth with minute detailing taken care of. The author has finesse.The story is fast paced with lots of twists and turns that keep you engaged till the end. All the characters are intelligently created and brought together to get the bigger picture.Elements of history, fantasy,mystery, thrill and suspense are well balanced.
Pick this and enjoy the mystery unveil. Waiting for the next one.
I would rate this 4.7/5 .
A beautifully crafted book. The research and the depth of the thinking is very prominently highlighted. Jumping from the busy Mumbai to Chandannagar to Tiripura to Unakoti this one is simply unputdownable.
Saikat chances upon a stone with a seller and on a whim buys the half stone. The stone has depictions of Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha and a beautiful lady and a few Sanskrit words written.Curiosity piqued he starts observing it carefully and tries locating the place where these could be found. A few descriptions from the seller and he decides to solve the mystery by finding the other stone which has the remaining set of clues.
Shuvashini is interested in history and culture and wishes to do her PhD in the same. But after being snubbed by the mentor and determined to prove her wrong she visits the library and picks a book on Rajmala.Only to not find it the next day. She starts reading about Tripura and decides to visit the city for more research.
When they both meet and start exploring the city and musuem they get more clues and set for an adventure of finding the treasure. But there are people who have found them suspicious and are on their trail .The adventure begins . Will they be able to crack the mystery? Or it gets lost forever? Read to find out.
The story jumps between the past and present and yet maintains the rhythm which is commendable. The narration is smooth with minute detailing taken care of. The author has finesse.The story is fast paced with lots of twists and turns that keep you engaged till the end. All the characters are intelligently created and brought together to get the bigger picture.Elements of history, fantasy,mystery, thrill and suspense are well balanced.
Pick this and enjoy the mystery unveil. Waiting for the next one.
I would rate this 4.7/5 .
September 9, 2019
♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
What's the story -
A man in Mumbai found a piece of ancient-looking stone with strange images and sanskrit inscriptions. A young lady in West Bengal finds a book accidentally that contains the long-forgotten story of the royal families and their lives.
Both of them get attracted towards these two objects and decide to visit the part of the country to which those two objects belong.
Their curiosity brings them together in this search where they get to know much about a century old story of a seductive danseuse, her enigmatic lover, a string of her admirers, the history of royal family and a gruesome conspiracy. The motive is to find the other-half of the stone and solve the mystery but in this their own lives are also in danger.
♥️What is the real story of this seductive danseuse?
♥️What is the connection between that half stone and the history?
♥️Will they be able to solve this mind-numbing mystery without facing any problems?
❤❤❤❤❤
RĚVÌÊW ~ The writing style is simply beautiful and easy to read and understand. The story keeps switching to the past and present and the author titled them perfectly to avoid any sort of confusion. The characters are well drawn and are developed in a proper manner. The author designed the entire plot so realistically that it was like reading a real story in a fictional way. The storyline designing and development is just perfect. The climax is amazing, a complete one without any cliffhanger but there's a part two in process. Overall, a beautifully designed historical mystery that will keep you hooked till the end.
Just go for it.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED....🙏🏻
Highly Recommending this beautiful book. Eagerly waiting for the second book in the series.
My RATINGS for this book - 4.5 🌟
What's the story -
A man in Mumbai found a piece of ancient-looking stone with strange images and sanskrit inscriptions. A young lady in West Bengal finds a book accidentally that contains the long-forgotten story of the royal families and their lives.
Both of them get attracted towards these two objects and decide to visit the part of the country to which those two objects belong.
Their curiosity brings them together in this search where they get to know much about a century old story of a seductive danseuse, her enigmatic lover, a string of her admirers, the history of royal family and a gruesome conspiracy. The motive is to find the other-half of the stone and solve the mystery but in this their own lives are also in danger.
♥️What is the real story of this seductive danseuse?
♥️What is the connection between that half stone and the history?
♥️Will they be able to solve this mind-numbing mystery without facing any problems?
❤❤❤❤❤
RĚVÌÊW ~ The writing style is simply beautiful and easy to read and understand. The story keeps switching to the past and present and the author titled them perfectly to avoid any sort of confusion. The characters are well drawn and are developed in a proper manner. The author designed the entire plot so realistically that it was like reading a real story in a fictional way. The storyline designing and development is just perfect. The climax is amazing, a complete one without any cliffhanger but there's a part two in process. Overall, a beautifully designed historical mystery that will keep you hooked till the end.
Just go for it.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED....🙏🏻
Highly Recommending this beautiful book. Eagerly waiting for the second book in the series.
My RATINGS for this book - 4.5 🌟
September 14, 2019
The speaking stone, a historical thriller, with plot switching between beginning of twentieth century and 2017.
The story begins from a posh locality in Mumbai, when Saikat, the protagonist, happens to buy a mysterious stone from a roadside artefact seller. The stone was cut vertically and the other half of it was missing. It evokes curiosity and Saikat has a sudden urge to find the truth behind the stone. Thus begins a quest to get into the storybehind the mysterious stone. The stone takes him to Tripura and during this journey he meet Shuvashini, who is looking for a novel idea for her dissertation and has keen interest in history.
Their hunt for truth unfolds a thrilling mystery from the folds of history which is equally interesting as their journey.
The book has an interesting cover, an amalgamation of present and past.
The title is as mysterious as the story and is in sync with the content of the book.
The plot is unique and engaging with all the subplots contributing effectively towards the story.
The narration is smooth and free flowing. The switch between present and past is handled efficiently.
Characters are portrayed so well that you can visualise them easily.
My only complain with the plot is that at places too many details are added that makes the book lengthy and draggy and you end up skipping pages.
Book has few pictures and illustations to explain complicated facts.
Over all the book is an interesting read that has a capability to keep you hooked till the last page.
The story begins from a posh locality in Mumbai, when Saikat, the protagonist, happens to buy a mysterious stone from a roadside artefact seller. The stone was cut vertically and the other half of it was missing. It evokes curiosity and Saikat has a sudden urge to find the truth behind the stone. Thus begins a quest to get into the storybehind the mysterious stone. The stone takes him to Tripura and during this journey he meet Shuvashini, who is looking for a novel idea for her dissertation and has keen interest in history.
Their hunt for truth unfolds a thrilling mystery from the folds of history which is equally interesting as their journey.
The book has an interesting cover, an amalgamation of present and past.
The title is as mysterious as the story and is in sync with the content of the book.
The plot is unique and engaging with all the subplots contributing effectively towards the story.
The narration is smooth and free flowing. The switch between present and past is handled efficiently.
Characters are portrayed so well that you can visualise them easily.
My only complain with the plot is that at places too many details are added that makes the book lengthy and draggy and you end up skipping pages.
Book has few pictures and illustations to explain complicated facts.
Over all the book is an interesting read that has a capability to keep you hooked till the last page.
December 22, 2020
"One of the strangest things in life that is the secret and treasure of the world open their arms to embrace you only when no secrete matter to you anymore and the treasure you have found within yourself is more precious than any otherworldly treasures."
So back to this book, this book divided into two parts like alternately about two people wanted to explore some treasure or story which related to history happened in 1900 and another part was the story of princely states of Tripura happen in 1900.
A young man named Saikat found a piece of ancient-looking stone with strange images and Sanskrit inscriptions but this stone is bisected vertically. A quest to discover the origin of the stone and another half of the stone brought him to the distant part of the country where he met a vivacious young lady, pursuing her dissertation proposal. They got together to solve the mystery behind the stone.
In search of a piece of stone, they found much string of great story buried in the mountain, century-old of seductive danseuse, her enigmatic lover, a painter with a photographic memory and many more.
I love the way the author writes the story of both centuries which happened in 1900 and 2016 and how he connect both of them alternately. After so many months I read some out of the box story which I like it.
So back to this book, this book divided into two parts like alternately about two people wanted to explore some treasure or story which related to history happened in 1900 and another part was the story of princely states of Tripura happen in 1900.
A young man named Saikat found a piece of ancient-looking stone with strange images and Sanskrit inscriptions but this stone is bisected vertically. A quest to discover the origin of the stone and another half of the stone brought him to the distant part of the country where he met a vivacious young lady, pursuing her dissertation proposal. They got together to solve the mystery behind the stone.
In search of a piece of stone, they found much string of great story buried in the mountain, century-old of seductive danseuse, her enigmatic lover, a painter with a photographic memory and many more.
I love the way the author writes the story of both centuries which happened in 1900 and 2016 and how he connect both of them alternately. After so many months I read some out of the box story which I like it.
September 16, 2019
When someone speaks of stories related to the ancient times, I get really intrigued. Well, the inquisitiveness doubles when you find a book on the same lines. The Speaking Stone is such a book!
Picked up this book after finding the blurb interesting. The cover is perfectly in sync with the title of the book. The plot is interesting and keeps switching between past and present. I enjoyed the part of the story in the past more than that of the present time. The author did a good job with the timelines and did not mess them up. The narration switches well between 1900 and 2017.
Tiny details mentioned in the book are good to read and the description of places are nice. In my honest opinion, a lot of long sentences could have been avoided to keep the story crisp. There are a certain grammatical errors here and there, and me, being a person who has an eye for detail couldn't bypass these errors.
The characters fit well in the story but I somehow found them stereotypical. The plot has a great potential if the errors in sentence formation are rectified.
My honest rating for the narrative and the plot is 3.8/5*
Picked up this book after finding the blurb interesting. The cover is perfectly in sync with the title of the book. The plot is interesting and keeps switching between past and present. I enjoyed the part of the story in the past more than that of the present time. The author did a good job with the timelines and did not mess them up. The narration switches well between 1900 and 2017.
Tiny details mentioned in the book are good to read and the description of places are nice. In my honest opinion, a lot of long sentences could have been avoided to keep the story crisp. There are a certain grammatical errors here and there, and me, being a person who has an eye for detail couldn't bypass these errors.
The characters fit well in the story but I somehow found them stereotypical. The plot has a great potential if the errors in sentence formation are rectified.
My honest rating for the narrative and the plot is 3.8/5*
September 16, 2019
"Can a piece of stone reveal a great story buried in the heart of a forgotten history??" Saikat comes across a stone that ages back centuries. Intrigued by the history that this stone seems to carry, Saikat goes on a journey to find unreveal the story of the stone. He meets Shuvasini who is doing her PhD in history and joins Saikat in his quest.
The story is narrated from multiple point of views. While on one hand the story is about the journey that Saikat and Shuvasini are experiencing, on other hand the parallely the second story is based in 20th century based in the mystical land of Tripura.
I like how the author has connected both the stories and how the storyline proceeds. However while the character of Shuvasini starts off very well, I was disappointed with how little she contributes to the story. A very strong female character could have been built which the author failed to do. On the other hand, kudos to the research work that the author has done and portrayed in the story.
Surely worth reading and great job done by the author in his debut book.
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The story is narrated from multiple point of views. While on one hand the story is about the journey that Saikat and Shuvasini are experiencing, on other hand the parallely the second story is based in 20th century based in the mystical land of Tripura.
I like how the author has connected both the stories and how the storyline proceeds. However while the character of Shuvasini starts off very well, I was disappointed with how little she contributes to the story. A very strong female character could have been built which the author failed to do. On the other hand, kudos to the research work that the author has done and portrayed in the story.
Surely worth reading and great job done by the author in his debut book.
.
May 23, 2021
As if Saikat and Shuvashini were destined to meet, their common thread of thoughts led them to Tripura, where they meet and tread on the common path to discover the buried secrets and uncover some mysteries. Now, this journey is not ordinary as their lives are at stake in pursuit of the forgotten history.
The adventure begins with the coming of the two characters together and the extraordinary tale of love and betrayal begins as they continue to get one step closer to finding the truth. Will they reach the truth or will the truth remain hidden forever? Discover the layered history as it uncovers page by page with these two well-thought-of characters.
https://ilashininggem.blogspot.com/20...
The adventure begins with the coming of the two characters together and the extraordinary tale of love and betrayal begins as they continue to get one step closer to finding the truth. Will they reach the truth or will the truth remain hidden forever? Discover the layered history as it uncovers page by page with these two well-thought-of characters.
https://ilashininggem.blogspot.com/20...
January 11, 2021
It is a historical thriller that talks about an unusual stone.
The stone had images carved on it and that stone was the speaking stone.
The story takes place in two backgrounds that differ as they are set in two centuries, 19th and 20th century.
The main characters are Saikat and Shuvashini.
Saikat wanted to find out about the stone and Shuvashini wanted to find something worth it for her thesis.
They both begin their journey, meet each other on this journey and fall in love with each other.
The interesting part in the book is the speaking stone.
The language of the book is simple and easy to understand.
I would recommend this book to readers who like to read historical fiction.
The stone had images carved on it and that stone was the speaking stone.
The story takes place in two backgrounds that differ as they are set in two centuries, 19th and 20th century.
The main characters are Saikat and Shuvashini.
Saikat wanted to find out about the stone and Shuvashini wanted to find something worth it for her thesis.
They both begin their journey, meet each other on this journey and fall in love with each other.
The interesting part in the book is the speaking stone.
The language of the book is simple and easy to understand.
I would recommend this book to readers who like to read historical fiction.
August 25, 2020
The story starts when Saikat stumbles upon a half of a mysterious sculpted stone, the Speaking Stone, in Mumbai. He is so entranced by it, that he traces it origin to the Unakoti hill in Tripura and decides to travel there to find it's other half. Meanwhile, in West Bengal, Shuvashini is searching for a topic to do her doctoral dissertation on, and comes across a book on the kingdom of Tripura in the library. She too, decides to go get some first-hand experience. We also get to see a parallel story happening in the 1900, in the princely state run by King Radha Kishore Manikya, of how the Speaking Stone came to be.
When I read a book, the thing that attracts me the most is it's setting, and that's why I loved this one so much. I have never read a book set in Tripura, and I learned a lot about the place when I read this. I liked the fact that he chose this location in the first place. The author tries his best to bring out the culture and history of the place and I enjoyed that. The research that went into writing it is remarkable. The mystery was well constructed and succeeded in keeping me engrossed. Many times a historical fiction that jumps between timelines can feel confusing, requiring us to turn back pages to understand things. But here, the transitions were done seemlessly, between 2016 and 1900.
I was really excited about the Shuvashini's character, with her being an expert in history, but she was reduced to a Dr. Watson type character. I would've liked her to have more of a role in the story. She and even the other characters had lots of room for development.
I'd recommend this to anyone looking for an engaging read, and also wants some new information.
When I read a book, the thing that attracts me the most is it's setting, and that's why I loved this one so much. I have never read a book set in Tripura, and I learned a lot about the place when I read this. I liked the fact that he chose this location in the first place. The author tries his best to bring out the culture and history of the place and I enjoyed that. The research that went into writing it is remarkable. The mystery was well constructed and succeeded in keeping me engrossed. Many times a historical fiction that jumps between timelines can feel confusing, requiring us to turn back pages to understand things. But here, the transitions were done seemlessly, between 2016 and 1900.
I was really excited about the Shuvashini's character, with her being an expert in history, but she was reduced to a Dr. Watson type character. I would've liked her to have more of a role in the story. She and even the other characters had lots of room for development.
I'd recommend this to anyone looking for an engaging read, and also wants some new information.
December 24, 2020
Saikat, a young man who finds an aged piece of stone and gets the urge to discover more of its origin, meets Shuvanshini, and they together try to decode the story that's hidden behind the creation of it.
The history of the stone is in the period 1900s in the northeastern state of India Tripura.
Saikat and Shuvanshini, in the hunting process, get to know a story in the history of a danseuse, her lover, her admirers, and many characters with unique and gifted talents (a painter with a photographic memory, a calligraphist who can imitate anyone's handwriting, a bird which can speak in many voices, an architect whose ideas stun the king, and many more)
The book has alternative POVs of the present and history slowly revealing the suspense in tiny bits makes it very moving.
The history and heritage of Tripura are mentioned very well, though the characters are fictional the places, the routes specified, the Ujjayanti palace now being as the museum, the tales behind the big mountain Unakoti mentioned in the story are such true to which you get to know a lot about them.
The best thing I liked is there was no unnecessary dragging in the story.
This is such a great read for me. I liked it and recommend it to everyone.
The history of the stone is in the period 1900s in the northeastern state of India Tripura.
Saikat and Shuvanshini, in the hunting process, get to know a story in the history of a danseuse, her lover, her admirers, and many characters with unique and gifted talents (a painter with a photographic memory, a calligraphist who can imitate anyone's handwriting, a bird which can speak in many voices, an architect whose ideas stun the king, and many more)
The book has alternative POVs of the present and history slowly revealing the suspense in tiny bits makes it very moving.
The history and heritage of Tripura are mentioned very well, though the characters are fictional the places, the routes specified, the Ujjayanti palace now being as the museum, the tales behind the big mountain Unakoti mentioned in the story are such true to which you get to know a lot about them.
The best thing I liked is there was no unnecessary dragging in the story.
This is such a great read for me. I liked it and recommend it to everyone.
February 5, 2020
HOW CAN A STONE LEAD A SNEEK INTO THE CONCEALED PAGES OF HISTORY?
Not everything or we like or see possess the vibe to attract us. A stone which took Saikat's attention made him closely attached to it, as if the stone speaks some untold stories to him. He feels a close connection to find the other half and the need to make the stone complete.
At the other hand shuvashini wanted to explore the untitled book of RAJMALA which was associated with TRIPURA.
Both on their different journey yet same path meet each other at TRIPURA to explore the beauty of the history concealed.
I loved how the timeline switch took place avoiding the confusion for the readers.
if you're a historical fiction fan, this book can be a perfect choice. One has been introduced to the original characters of the history which makes the book less fictional.
THE BEAUTY OF THE NATURE and TRIPURA is worth taking a glance in the book.
I felt that the character of the Indra kishore and Shuvashini could have been portrayed much better.
Not everything or we like or see possess the vibe to attract us. A stone which took Saikat's attention made him closely attached to it, as if the stone speaks some untold stories to him. He feels a close connection to find the other half and the need to make the stone complete.
At the other hand shuvashini wanted to explore the untitled book of RAJMALA which was associated with TRIPURA.
Both on their different journey yet same path meet each other at TRIPURA to explore the beauty of the history concealed.
I loved how the timeline switch took place avoiding the confusion for the readers.
if you're a historical fiction fan, this book can be a perfect choice. One has been introduced to the original characters of the history which makes the book less fictional.
THE BEAUTY OF THE NATURE and TRIPURA is worth taking a glance in the book.
I felt that the character of the Indra kishore and Shuvashini could have been portrayed much better.
August 19, 2020
The Speaking Stone Ratnadip Acharya
"A philatelist is better-versed in century old facts than a historian"
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Do you love books where the readers are also expected to set off a journey to find some mysteries or in other words do you love stories of 'treasure hunts' ?!
.
If yes, then this will be a pure bliss for you people!
.
The blurb 🥀
Saikat gets a really weird stone from a man whom he met in a very unusual place at a very unusual time.The perfect halves of carved faces in the piece of stone strikes a "series" of curiousness in him and he decides to set off a journey to find the true story behind it. Shuvanshi, a history PhD student is searching for an extraordinary topic to work on her thesis paper and a book unexpectedly exposes her to the "less" famous Agartala, the capital of Tripura. She felt it in her bones that she would definitely find something inspiring from this very own place.Well,fate makes them work together to find something hidden mysteriously over the centuries.
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The speaking stone really has a story behind it?! And if it has, will they be able to find anything to make peace with their inner souls rather than the materialistic needs?!
.
O my god ! I enjoyed this thoroughly from the beginning to the end.From a total of 26 chapters the last couple of chapters made me get into a "goosebumps trance".The story has different layers for us to think about.The narration is done in two different time periods which makes it more mysterious at the end of each chapter.The verses in Sanskrit (of course translation is there) made it more authentic and I loved the way how everything came to sense at the end.To be frank I really hope that Saikat and Shuvanshi will have more adventures ahead (hoping for a part 2, maybe😬)
.
A must read for all historical thriller lovers out there.
"A philatelist is better-versed in century old facts than a historian"
.
Do you love books where the readers are also expected to set off a journey to find some mysteries or in other words do you love stories of 'treasure hunts' ?!
.
If yes, then this will be a pure bliss for you people!
.
The blurb 🥀
Saikat gets a really weird stone from a man whom he met in a very unusual place at a very unusual time.The perfect halves of carved faces in the piece of stone strikes a "series" of curiousness in him and he decides to set off a journey to find the true story behind it. Shuvanshi, a history PhD student is searching for an extraordinary topic to work on her thesis paper and a book unexpectedly exposes her to the "less" famous Agartala, the capital of Tripura. She felt it in her bones that she would definitely find something inspiring from this very own place.Well,fate makes them work together to find something hidden mysteriously over the centuries.
.
The speaking stone really has a story behind it?! And if it has, will they be able to find anything to make peace with their inner souls rather than the materialistic needs?!
.
O my god ! I enjoyed this thoroughly from the beginning to the end.From a total of 26 chapters the last couple of chapters made me get into a "goosebumps trance".The story has different layers for us to think about.The narration is done in two different time periods which makes it more mysterious at the end of each chapter.The verses in Sanskrit (of course translation is there) made it more authentic and I loved the way how everything came to sense at the end.To be frank I really hope that Saikat and Shuvanshi will have more adventures ahead (hoping for a part 2, maybe😬)
.
A must read for all historical thriller lovers out there.
January 27, 2020
Saikat a young man found a piece of stone with ancient sculptures on it and Sanskrit inscriptions. His urge to know more about the origin of this stone brought him to the most neglected part of India, Tripura where he met Shuvashini a vivacious young lady and a history teacher pursuing her dissertation proposal. Their quest unravels the mystery of a different era. A seductive danseuse and her enigmatic lover, a royal life and it's consequences. But somewhere between this love story a gruesome conspiracy is germinating. Saikat and Shuvashini together tried to dig out the truth but in this operation of discovering the century old secrets of Manikya dynasty their safety is also in jeopardy.
Speaking stone is something more than just a normal historical fiction. This book simultaneously tells two different stories of two different era 1900 and 2016. Although it is a work of fiction the locations author has chosen really exists. I appreciate that author has tried to put this distant part of our country under limelight. I'm totally impressed with the writing quality because it has successfully balanced the entire storyline so perfectly. Whether it is mystery or thriller or emotional interplay, author has successfully maintained a balance and tension through the entire book. Every chapter ends with a cliffhanger so it gives a chilling sensation and lure you to read further. Entire storyline is so captivating. I like the leading characters though they can be more developed. Altogether a good historical mystery book, something new that surely will blow up reader's mind.
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MY EXPERIENCE: Definitely something new for me and I really enjoyed the entire book. No part was boring for me and the mid section was so intriguing that I couldn't stop myself from reading.
Speaking stone is something more than just a normal historical fiction. This book simultaneously tells two different stories of two different era 1900 and 2016. Although it is a work of fiction the locations author has chosen really exists. I appreciate that author has tried to put this distant part of our country under limelight. I'm totally impressed with the writing quality because it has successfully balanced the entire storyline so perfectly. Whether it is mystery or thriller or emotional interplay, author has successfully maintained a balance and tension through the entire book. Every chapter ends with a cliffhanger so it gives a chilling sensation and lure you to read further. Entire storyline is so captivating. I like the leading characters though they can be more developed. Altogether a good historical mystery book, something new that surely will blow up reader's mind.
.
MY EXPERIENCE: Definitely something new for me and I really enjoyed the entire book. No part was boring for me and the mid section was so intriguing that I couldn't stop myself from reading.
August 27, 2020
A mysterious stone attracts Saikat's attention near Café Mondegar at Colaba, ebony craved stone exactly the half of a piece of stone which seems impossible without any hi-tech machine but this stone looks like an ancient times artefact, here the story of speaking stone started unwrapping which lead him to Tripura.
Subashini no, Shuvashini a proud Bengali, working on her Ph.D but future crafting something else for her, Shuva's writeup smashed by the great historian than a historical event waiting for Shuva's to meet her destiny.
They ended up in Tripura where in the 1900s a kingdom was known as Manikya dynasty.
They met then search through city museum to far-flung rock mountain an Un-revealed old story of a danseuse, her enigmatic lover and many more unrevealed past of that kingdom waiting for them.
Who craved that piece of stone?
Who were Dipanker and Parul?
Is this stone trying to speak something?
And many more questions we have and for the answer, you have to read "The Speaking Stone"
My view:-
The author draws all character so lively that you gonna feel you are in the story and travelling with them.
A well-researched book is like cherry on top because I love stories with solid research and here Ratandip give me a new chapter for my history reads.
Author work on every small detail which I really enjoy.
Story juggles from the 1900s to 2017 it's like reveal story but hold suspense kudos for that.
Author uses laymen language that makes it more enjoyable.😊
Overall a one sits read for me and now im waiting for next book.
Recommendation:-
A book mix of historical background with a full pack fiction is to go book for everyone. More specific if you are into mystery fiction you can go for this without a doubt.
Subashini no, Shuvashini a proud Bengali, working on her Ph.D but future crafting something else for her, Shuva's writeup smashed by the great historian than a historical event waiting for Shuva's to meet her destiny.
They ended up in Tripura where in the 1900s a kingdom was known as Manikya dynasty.
They met then search through city museum to far-flung rock mountain an Un-revealed old story of a danseuse, her enigmatic lover and many more unrevealed past of that kingdom waiting for them.
Who craved that piece of stone?
Who were Dipanker and Parul?
Is this stone trying to speak something?
And many more questions we have and for the answer, you have to read "The Speaking Stone"
My view:-
The author draws all character so lively that you gonna feel you are in the story and travelling with them.
A well-researched book is like cherry on top because I love stories with solid research and here Ratandip give me a new chapter for my history reads.
Author work on every small detail which I really enjoy.
Story juggles from the 1900s to 2017 it's like reveal story but hold suspense kudos for that.
Author uses laymen language that makes it more enjoyable.😊
Overall a one sits read for me and now im waiting for next book.
Recommendation:-
A book mix of historical background with a full pack fiction is to go book for everyone. More specific if you are into mystery fiction you can go for this without a doubt.
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