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Darya Nandkarni's Misadventures #1
Kiss of Salt
♥ For lovers of slow-burn atmospheric mysteries that are almost literary fiction. With armchair travel and intriguing characters. Think Nordic noir meets Nancy Drew. ♥
*Heliconia Lane was a spot of heaven until you discover the secrets that lay behind its closed doors.*
It was crazy really, for Darya to think she could have some peace and quiet at Heliconia Lane. Yes, it was located in a beautiful corner of South Goa—by the beach, no less—but after her Aunt Farideh disappeared twenty years ago—from this very place—nothing has been the same again. And now her uncle was dead under bizarre circumstances as were two of the neighbours on his street.
What was happening? Was there a murderer on the loose? Why were people dying? Was it connected to her aunt’s disappearance in some way?
And most importantly, was Darya going to be next?
A cozy, Agatha Christie-style whodunnit, Kiss of Salt introduces Darya Nandkarni, an amateur, and accidental detective, who is clever, spirited, resourceful, yet troubled and vulnerable. Her adventures will make you laugh, cry, gape, and marvel, and you won't be able to put down the book until you've solved the mystery along with her in the beautiful side-streets of Goa.
** If you liked Kiss of Salt, check out the next in the series: THE SECRET ANGELS **
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2019
111 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Smita Bhattacharya
16 books66 followersSMITA BHATTACHARYA writes atmospheric cosy, and psychological mystery fiction. Strong female protagonists and twisty whodunnits are her forte. Her psychological thriller novel—Dead to Them—was amongst the top Crime, Thriller & Mystery books of Amazon India in 2022. It has been optioned for a movie. She has also authored a popular amateur detective series—the Darya Nandkarni Misadventure Series. The first of the series—Kiss of Salt—is in talks to be optioned for a movie.
Smita lives in Mumbai but has solo travelled to over 45 countries. Her stories are heavily inspired by her travels and by those she meets. She has worked in a vineyard, a newsroom, a school, a library, a bank, an advisory firm, and a technology start-up.
You can read her colourful travel and life stories at www.smitabhattacharya.com.
Smita lives in Mumbai but has solo travelled to over 45 countries. Her stories are heavily inspired by her travels and by those she meets. She has worked in a vineyard, a newsroom, a school, a library, a bank, an advisory firm, and a technology start-up.
You can read her colourful travel and life stories at www.smitabhattacharya.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
November 20, 2020
Many Thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What an incredibly written quagmire of a whodunnit this turned out to be.
Smita Bhattacharya’s book #1 Kiss Of Salt in Darya Nandkarni's Misadventures series is an exhilarating ride thru the enchanting locales of Goa, a place famously known as the Pearl Of the Orient.
Darya Nandkarni is on a mission to help her father clear out his brother’s house after his demise. Sea Swept, Constellation and Casa de Primavera; the 3 houses that are located in Heliconia Lane hidden away from prying eyes, is a location to die for. Darya arrives in Sea Swept hoping for rejuvenation and recovery after some trying and distraught time in her life. Sea Swept is however hardly the place of solace as Darya confronts the past of a missing Farideh, the wife of her uncle Paritosh. Soon Darya realizes that nothing is as it seems in Heliconia Lane as one mystery after another begins unfolding.
How to know what’s behind smiling faces? We think a smile means happiness…contentment, but it’s only an appearance, a cloak of pretence. Only a child smile when he’s really happy.
There’s romance, there’s suspense, there’s a cold-case investigation, there’s amateur sleuthing, and then there’s the final denouement in the climax a la Agatha Christie style that made this a thumping winner for me. Darya’s character has been so wonderfully etched, she’s flawed in so many ways like many of us trying to find our footing, but she shows grit and determination to untangle the myriad clues and secrets lurking under the surface of this placid waters. Interspersed with beautiful quotes from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam , Kiss Of Salt is a book to be savored.
A gripping and brilliant whodunnit, there’s never a dull moment in the story as Darya follows her heart to bring the truth to light. The supporting characters adds an additional layer of enigma as the past of not just Farideh but that of Aaron also unravels.
Looking forward in delight to read all the books in the series.
Highly recommended.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Medium.com, Goodreads, Amazon India and twitter.
What an incredibly written quagmire of a whodunnit this turned out to be.
Smita Bhattacharya’s book #1 Kiss Of Salt in Darya Nandkarni's Misadventures series is an exhilarating ride thru the enchanting locales of Goa, a place famously known as the Pearl Of the Orient.
Darya Nandkarni is on a mission to help her father clear out his brother’s house after his demise. Sea Swept, Constellation and Casa de Primavera; the 3 houses that are located in Heliconia Lane hidden away from prying eyes, is a location to die for. Darya arrives in Sea Swept hoping for rejuvenation and recovery after some trying and distraught time in her life. Sea Swept is however hardly the place of solace as Darya confronts the past of a missing Farideh, the wife of her uncle Paritosh. Soon Darya realizes that nothing is as it seems in Heliconia Lane as one mystery after another begins unfolding.
How to know what’s behind smiling faces? We think a smile means happiness…contentment, but it’s only an appearance, a cloak of pretence. Only a child smile when he’s really happy.
There’s romance, there’s suspense, there’s a cold-case investigation, there’s amateur sleuthing, and then there’s the final denouement in the climax a la Agatha Christie style that made this a thumping winner for me. Darya’s character has been so wonderfully etched, she’s flawed in so many ways like many of us trying to find our footing, but she shows grit and determination to untangle the myriad clues and secrets lurking under the surface of this placid waters. Interspersed with beautiful quotes from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam , Kiss Of Salt is a book to be savored.
A gripping and brilliant whodunnit, there’s never a dull moment in the story as Darya follows her heart to bring the truth to light. The supporting characters adds an additional layer of enigma as the past of not just Farideh but that of Aaron also unravels.
Looking forward in delight to read all the books in the series.
Highly recommended.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Medium.com, Goodreads, Amazon India and twitter.
September 24, 2020
A Little bit of everything
Kiss of Salt had elements of many genres in it. A beautiful and lovely place, interesting characters, an old mystery and how our gradually opens up and shows different facets affecting the people in the present day.
Liked the story.
Kiss of Salt had elements of many genres in it. A beautiful and lovely place, interesting characters, an old mystery and how our gradually opens up and shows different facets affecting the people in the present day.
Liked the story.
August 22, 2019
Darya Nandkarni arrives at Heliconia Lane in Goa to collect important things after her uncle passed away. Heliconia lane is a beautiful place and the way it is described feels like a serene destination for a peaceful vacation. And that is exactly what Darya needs in her life after the mess she got out of.
But everything is about to change, people who she thought she knew all too well were actually strangers. Lies to cover more lies and secrets that the people kept between them are about to come out.
They say "looks can be deceiving" and Heliconia lane is definitely a far cry from being the quite safe haven. As the story develops, Darya unearths buried past secrets that are scattered all around, she uses her sleuthing skills to uncover what left unsolvable.
In almost all the mystery or thriller books, I usually take a bit of time in warming up to the protagonist's feelings and seeing them as a person but in this book the protagonist was an instant favorite because her character was not all spotless, her life was messy and she was slowly and surely getting back on her feet. The progression of plot was intricately planned and none of detail how ever small were overlooked. There were so many twists and turns that you'll never expect going into it, it's just a massive web of amazing mystery.
Like i said earlier, despite being a complex storyline I didn't find any character or the plot itself superfluous. Sometimes while reading a murder mystery there will be struggles such irrelevant gory details and unnecessary stress on other characters who carry less or no importance to the story whatsoever thus making it tedious but in Kiss of salt , each character played vital role in end for the story to make sense. All the elements just seem to easily blend successfully making it a nail-biting mystery.
But everything is about to change, people who she thought she knew all too well were actually strangers. Lies to cover more lies and secrets that the people kept between them are about to come out.
They say "looks can be deceiving" and Heliconia lane is definitely a far cry from being the quite safe haven. As the story develops, Darya unearths buried past secrets that are scattered all around, she uses her sleuthing skills to uncover what left unsolvable.
In almost all the mystery or thriller books, I usually take a bit of time in warming up to the protagonist's feelings and seeing them as a person but in this book the protagonist was an instant favorite because her character was not all spotless, her life was messy and she was slowly and surely getting back on her feet. The progression of plot was intricately planned and none of detail how ever small were overlooked. There were so many twists and turns that you'll never expect going into it, it's just a massive web of amazing mystery.
Like i said earlier, despite being a complex storyline I didn't find any character or the plot itself superfluous. Sometimes while reading a murder mystery there will be struggles such irrelevant gory details and unnecessary stress on other characters who carry less or no importance to the story whatsoever thus making it tedious but in Kiss of salt , each character played vital role in end for the story to make sense. All the elements just seem to easily blend successfully making it a nail-biting mystery.
November 10, 2019
'Kiss of Salt' is an absolutely enjoyable story. After a long time I have read a mystery thriller that has given me the slow thrill kind of feeling.
The story develops at a leisurely pace and the turning point in the story is really worth the initial slow process.
The story starts with Darya going to Goa to sort out her dead uncle's personal effects after his death and the events that happen in the process make for a thrilling read.
The characterisation is precise, not many extraneous characters. Each and every character has a role to play . They have been depicted very well that make them so genuine. Initially I kind of had discounted Darya as a cry baby loser kind of person but then the character growth that happened gradually was worth the effort. I usually love reading thrillers that are fast paced but this book came as a pleasant surprise.
I look forward to reading more stories by the author.
If you love reading thrillers then do pick this one up It will be a thrilling and chilling adventure! I recommend it for all those who enjoy murder mysteries/ thrillers.
The story develops at a leisurely pace and the turning point in the story is really worth the initial slow process.
The story starts with Darya going to Goa to sort out her dead uncle's personal effects after his death and the events that happen in the process make for a thrilling read.
The characterisation is precise, not many extraneous characters. Each and every character has a role to play . They have been depicted very well that make them so genuine. Initially I kind of had discounted Darya as a cry baby loser kind of person but then the character growth that happened gradually was worth the effort. I usually love reading thrillers that are fast paced but this book came as a pleasant surprise.
I look forward to reading more stories by the author.
If you love reading thrillers then do pick this one up It will be a thrilling and chilling adventure! I recommend it for all those who enjoy murder mysteries/ thrillers.
August 12, 2019
Kiss of Salt
Author - @smitabe
Publisher - Rumor Books India
Price - 165(kindle)
Page - 314
Genre - Mystery
📖
📖
Content - Heliconia Lane,a beautiful corner in South Goa,by the beach and away from traffic and people Three couples lived in three separate houses but their friendship and bondage were deep.Darya,niece of a couple lived there,Paritosh and Farideh,loved to come there on her holidays and used to play with children of other couple's. Everything was fine until one day Farideh went missing.Her husband and the neighbors gave their best to find her but all went in vain.
.
It has been 20 years now. Paritosh is dead and so is another couple in a bizarre accident.Darya has come to pick necessary things from his uncle's home.But something is not right.As Darya started to go deep in her uncle's death mystery,new shocking things are coming out.
.
Are the deaths not natural?If these are murders,who is the killer?Why were they dead?Are more people gonna die soon?Is Darya next in line?To know all the answers,read the book.
📖
📖
My Views - The book is a murder mystery but without the gruesomeness of it It started with a cozy vibe with beautiful description of Goa.The pace of the book is slow with mysteries building slowly but it is not boring or you will not feel like you should stop reading it.Its great to read how Darya unfolded the mysteries herself layer by layer.The character of Darya is shown as a strong,confident woman though her life is in a turmoil.The supporting characters also play vital roles in the story.
.
The story is written in such a way that every character will fall under suspicion and you can not keep the book down without finishing.
A very well written book by @smitabe once again.
📖
My Rating - 4.7⭐/5⭐
#teammysecretbookself
Author - @smitabe
Publisher - Rumor Books India
Price - 165(kindle)
Page - 314
Genre - Mystery
📖
📖
Content - Heliconia Lane,a beautiful corner in South Goa,by the beach and away from traffic and people Three couples lived in three separate houses but their friendship and bondage were deep.Darya,niece of a couple lived there,Paritosh and Farideh,loved to come there on her holidays and used to play with children of other couple's. Everything was fine until one day Farideh went missing.Her husband and the neighbors gave their best to find her but all went in vain.
.
It has been 20 years now. Paritosh is dead and so is another couple in a bizarre accident.Darya has come to pick necessary things from his uncle's home.But something is not right.As Darya started to go deep in her uncle's death mystery,new shocking things are coming out.
.
Are the deaths not natural?If these are murders,who is the killer?Why were they dead?Are more people gonna die soon?Is Darya next in line?To know all the answers,read the book.
📖
📖
My Views - The book is a murder mystery but without the gruesomeness of it It started with a cozy vibe with beautiful description of Goa.The pace of the book is slow with mysteries building slowly but it is not boring or you will not feel like you should stop reading it.Its great to read how Darya unfolded the mysteries herself layer by layer.The character of Darya is shown as a strong,confident woman though her life is in a turmoil.The supporting characters also play vital roles in the story.
.
The story is written in such a way that every character will fall under suspicion and you can not keep the book down without finishing.
A very well written book by @smitabe once again.
📖
My Rating - 4.7⭐/5⭐
#teammysecretbookself
April 20, 2022
There are few people who aren't able to live even one life peacefully whereas there are some who has that Midas touch that whatever they do and set their sight on, it turns into success. Having read about the author and observing her journey through her posts with outstanding credentials to her name ,I was really inspired with her work ethics and admirable time management skills. Hence , I decided to pick her novel which bind my attention like no other mainly to the enchanting cover and interesting premise.
The story is built in the backdrop of GOA . Though it is a mix of various genres but still if someone has to assign one it will be crime thriller. It is a story of a young girl Darya who is on her quest to find the truth related to her Uncle's death . Visiting Goa after a long time make her recall her childhood moments and the stress free time she had spent here.
The intricacies of relationship is beautifully portrayed in the novel. The layer by layer revealation of events and the depth of perspectives is truly mesmerizing to witness.
The characters speak to you as if narrating their own imperfections and hidden traits with a mysterious aura around them. The tale isn't something that instantly gratifies you , rather it is a slow burner that requires undivided attention to completely immerse in it . It enchants the soul like no other and gives an experience that is hard to forget. It won't be an exaggeration if I say the author is slowly turning into a role model for me . Such a perfectionist in everything she does. Seems to have more time in her kitty than everyone else
Really looking forward to read and review every other novel by her.
The story is built in the backdrop of GOA . Though it is a mix of various genres but still if someone has to assign one it will be crime thriller. It is a story of a young girl Darya who is on her quest to find the truth related to her Uncle's death . Visiting Goa after a long time make her recall her childhood moments and the stress free time she had spent here.
The intricacies of relationship is beautifully portrayed in the novel. The layer by layer revealation of events and the depth of perspectives is truly mesmerizing to witness.
The characters speak to you as if narrating their own imperfections and hidden traits with a mysterious aura around them. The tale isn't something that instantly gratifies you , rather it is a slow burner that requires undivided attention to completely immerse in it . It enchants the soul like no other and gives an experience that is hard to forget. It won't be an exaggeration if I say the author is slowly turning into a role model for me . Such a perfectionist in everything she does. Seems to have more time in her kitty than everyone else
Really looking forward to read and review every other novel by her.
September 23, 2019
The title is and catchy and the cover design is very thoughtful as well. The language used in the novel is simple to understand. The twist and turns in the story is intriguing and can readers will be easily drawn in, making it easy to devour this book in one sitting. The author has written the novel in such a way that the suspense of the story is kept intact till the end. This book is recommended to all the readers who loves reading murder mystery.
September 3, 2019
Kiss Of Salt is a real page-turner. Apart from being an amazing crime thriller, it is also a soothing and lively book. There is an element in the story that keeps you in anxious and relaxed state, both at the same time.
.
It’s a suspenseful story of Darya, who goes to Heliconia Lane thinking to have some peace and quiet. But does she really find that? Infact, her purpose of visiting totally changes after she actually does.
She soon finds out that there are many things that she needs to know. Several deaths happening in the vicinity doesn’t seem to be a co-incidence. Read the book to know how she is finally able to unfold the mystery behind those deaths.
.
As I already mentioned, this book, being a murder mystery, keeps you in a comfortable state. It will keep you at the edge to keep flipping the pages.
.
The story is addictive and the narration is engaging. The use of language is moderate and very easy to understand. It’s only the presentation that makes it easy to finish this 300-paged book.
.
The flow of the story is like a freely flowing river, in its limits and consistently moving ahead. There might come a point where you might find it slow-paced but you’ll soon realize that everything mentioned in the pages is logical and doesn’t go waste at the end.
.
The story does have many characters and it plays beautifully with them. Every highlighted character has an important part to play in the mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed knowing them through this story.
.
Last but not the least, I really adore the cover and the choice of title, goes perfectly aligned with the plot. The cover picture conjugates well with the theme, which is set in Goa in a very peaceful and vacation worthy spot.
.
Overall, I absolutely loved reading this book. A gripping and intense page-turner, ready to give you a nail-biting experience. Prepare yourself for an unexpectedly satisfying journey and take your time to read it.
.
It’s a suspenseful story of Darya, who goes to Heliconia Lane thinking to have some peace and quiet. But does she really find that? Infact, her purpose of visiting totally changes after she actually does.
She soon finds out that there are many things that she needs to know. Several deaths happening in the vicinity doesn’t seem to be a co-incidence. Read the book to know how she is finally able to unfold the mystery behind those deaths.
.
As I already mentioned, this book, being a murder mystery, keeps you in a comfortable state. It will keep you at the edge to keep flipping the pages.
.
The story is addictive and the narration is engaging. The use of language is moderate and very easy to understand. It’s only the presentation that makes it easy to finish this 300-paged book.
.
The flow of the story is like a freely flowing river, in its limits and consistently moving ahead. There might come a point where you might find it slow-paced but you’ll soon realize that everything mentioned in the pages is logical and doesn’t go waste at the end.
.
The story does have many characters and it plays beautifully with them. Every highlighted character has an important part to play in the mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed knowing them through this story.
.
Last but not the least, I really adore the cover and the choice of title, goes perfectly aligned with the plot. The cover picture conjugates well with the theme, which is set in Goa in a very peaceful and vacation worthy spot.
.
Overall, I absolutely loved reading this book. A gripping and intense page-turner, ready to give you a nail-biting experience. Prepare yourself for an unexpectedly satisfying journey and take your time to read it.
August 29, 2019
Name of the book - Kiss of Salt by Smita Bhattacharya.
Stars given - 4 on 5 stars.
My take on the book-
Books are supposed to educate and open our minds to new possibilities.
And this book did that in aces for me. You see I am writing murder mystery and almost everything is done except murder.
Not funny I know, but this book has a not too gory murder.
Me likey a lot.
Currently food poisoning is kicking my ass but I going at my TBR list like a maniac.
For this book I loved the descriptions of Goa, a lot. Been then, seen it all and loved it.
The characters were very real and relatable.
Like there was this one character who seemed like a clone of someone I know. That person will remain un-named cause the concerned person is follows me.
🙈🙈🙈.
Ps watcha waiting for read it and let me know how you like it.
Stars given - 4 on 5 stars.
My take on the book-
Books are supposed to educate and open our minds to new possibilities.
And this book did that in aces for me. You see I am writing murder mystery and almost everything is done except murder.
Not funny I know, but this book has a not too gory murder.
Me likey a lot.
Currently food poisoning is kicking my ass but I going at my TBR list like a maniac.
For this book I loved the descriptions of Goa, a lot. Been then, seen it all and loved it.
The characters were very real and relatable.
Like there was this one character who seemed like a clone of someone I know. That person will remain un-named cause the concerned person is follows me.
🙈🙈🙈.
Ps watcha waiting for read it and let me know how you like it.
August 18, 2021
Kiss of Salt (Darya Nandkarni’s Misadventures #1) by Smita Bhattacharya was a different kind of mystery cozy, at least for me. It had all the elements of a cozy mystery: town by the sea, interesting characters, and an unexpected mystery. Because it was set in India, some of the way the words were used and/or traditions were new to me. The writing was well done, and the ending was quite an interesting way to solve a mystery. Fans of Agatha Christie will love this book.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions expressed are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2019
Book Name: Kiss of Salt
Author: Smita Bhattacharya
No of Pages: 315
Publisher: Rumour Books India
Format: E-Book
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side,
Of my darling- my darling- my life and my bride,
In her sepulchre there by the sea-
In her tomb by the sounding.
The title and cover of the book are quite impressive. I kind of like the view seashore appearing in the faded woman's body is appealing.
The plot opens in the beautiful Valsolem beach located south of Goa which is also a less explored area of the city. Darya's uncle's house located in Heliconia Lane by the beach, after he had died Darya was cleaning up his uncle Pari's room. It was a total mess pile of paper, photographs, ripped books, bills, clothes, and many other things scattered all over the room. She ends up getting herself caught with a bundle of secrets that urge her to solve them. Darya herself was broken from inside after her breakup with her boyfriend Spandan.
The author has described Goa city gracefully. The writing is simple and lucid. 'Darya' is the female protagonist of the story.
Darya was in the process of solving the layer of the secret one by one which leads her to the criminal. Will, she ever all to solve the mystery.
Don't wanna give any spoiler. I know readers would love to find out what happened in the end.
I love to read mystery books and this book comes under that category. I enjoyed reading this book.
Author: Smita Bhattacharya
No of Pages: 315
Publisher: Rumour Books India
Format: E-Book
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side,
Of my darling- my darling- my life and my bride,
In her sepulchre there by the sea-
In her tomb by the sounding.
The title and cover of the book are quite impressive. I kind of like the view seashore appearing in the faded woman's body is appealing.
The plot opens in the beautiful Valsolem beach located south of Goa which is also a less explored area of the city. Darya's uncle's house located in Heliconia Lane by the beach, after he had died Darya was cleaning up his uncle Pari's room. It was a total mess pile of paper, photographs, ripped books, bills, clothes, and many other things scattered all over the room. She ends up getting herself caught with a bundle of secrets that urge her to solve them. Darya herself was broken from inside after her breakup with her boyfriend Spandan.
The author has described Goa city gracefully. The writing is simple and lucid. 'Darya' is the female protagonist of the story.
Darya was in the process of solving the layer of the secret one by one which leads her to the criminal. Will, she ever all to solve the mystery.
Don't wanna give any spoiler. I know readers would love to find out what happened in the end.
I love to read mystery books and this book comes under that category. I enjoyed reading this book.
August 25, 2020
A gripping page-turner. I've a special liking for the crime thrillers in which an event, that had occurred years ago, is responsible for the events (usually murders) happening in the present. It was exactly like that. The book will give you a very Agatha Christie type feel and you won't like to rest before finishing the story.
November 29, 2019
Her heart thudded wildly in her chest.
The sea crashed into the dark rocks.
🦄🦄🦄
Heliconia Lane, the safest place in Goa, home to three houses with their own stories to tell.
This is where Darya finds herself after the death of her uncle, Paritosh, one of the residents of Heliconia Lane.
After the disappearance of his wife, Farideh, 20 years back, he had been living alone. Darya always looked up to them because everyone said their live story was one written by the Heavens.
What should have been a quick clean through turns into a mystery when Darya finds herself knee deep in circumstantial evidence, a web of lies and cute guys.
Can Darya solve the mystrey of Heliconia Lane before it's too late.
🦄🦄🦄
Kiss of Salt by Smita Bhattacharya is a page turning murder mystery book that keeps you hooked from the very beginning.
The details of the book always keeps you wondering who done it and I have to admit I did not predict that ending.
The characters are perfect in their own way and add perfectly to the story.
The author's portrayal of Goa is beautifully accurate and pulls you into the place even if you haven't been there.
There are no unnecessary chapters and plot holes but instead the story is filled with trust and turns that keep your heart racing.
One con is that there are certain phrases written in the local language of Goa I.e. Konkani, and because I am from Goa it was easy for me to understand but someone who dies not know the language may not understand certain phrases unless translations are provided.
🦄🦄🦄
Overall a great mystrey book and one that needs to he read if you're a fan of this particular genre.
Rated 95/100
The sea crashed into the dark rocks.
🦄🦄🦄
Heliconia Lane, the safest place in Goa, home to three houses with their own stories to tell.
This is where Darya finds herself after the death of her uncle, Paritosh, one of the residents of Heliconia Lane.
After the disappearance of his wife, Farideh, 20 years back, he had been living alone. Darya always looked up to them because everyone said their live story was one written by the Heavens.
What should have been a quick clean through turns into a mystery when Darya finds herself knee deep in circumstantial evidence, a web of lies and cute guys.
Can Darya solve the mystrey of Heliconia Lane before it's too late.
🦄🦄🦄
Kiss of Salt by Smita Bhattacharya is a page turning murder mystery book that keeps you hooked from the very beginning.
The details of the book always keeps you wondering who done it and I have to admit I did not predict that ending.
The characters are perfect in their own way and add perfectly to the story.
The author's portrayal of Goa is beautifully accurate and pulls you into the place even if you haven't been there.
There are no unnecessary chapters and plot holes but instead the story is filled with trust and turns that keep your heart racing.
One con is that there are certain phrases written in the local language of Goa I.e. Konkani, and because I am from Goa it was easy for me to understand but someone who dies not know the language may not understand certain phrases unless translations are provided.
🦄🦄🦄
Overall a great mystrey book and one that needs to he read if you're a fan of this particular genre.
Rated 95/100
August 25, 2021
Welcome to South Goa, India where the adventure
of Darya Nandkarni takes place. Darya is there to
help her father clear out his brother’s house. The
brother has been found dead after an anonymous
phone call. The Uncle’s house in called Sea Swept.
It is located on Heliconia Lane with only two other
homes, the Constellation and Casa de Primavera.
The lane is hidden away from routine traffic.
Twenty Years ago, Darya’s Aunt Farideh
disappeared. Never to be heard from again.
But as Darya goes through her uncle’s papers,
she discovers clues to make her think her aunt was
still alive.
Now her uncle is dead and it appears to be murder
plus the couple living in the Constellation have also
died under mysterious circumstances.
Things are not as they seem and Darya starts to
do her own investigation.
This is a riveting and gripping talently written
mystery with well defined and artfully crafted
characters that all blend into the final solution.
I enjoyed learning about Goa and other little towns
mentioned throughout the story. I felt like I was
right there involved with Darya. I felt her confusion,
her sadness, her happiness and look forward to
reading the next adventure she will face.
I volunteered to read Kiss of Salt. Thanks to the
author vis the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is voluntary and my own.
A Highly Recommended Read!!!
of Darya Nandkarni takes place. Darya is there to
help her father clear out his brother’s house. The
brother has been found dead after an anonymous
phone call. The Uncle’s house in called Sea Swept.
It is located on Heliconia Lane with only two other
homes, the Constellation and Casa de Primavera.
The lane is hidden away from routine traffic.
Twenty Years ago, Darya’s Aunt Farideh
disappeared. Never to be heard from again.
But as Darya goes through her uncle’s papers,
she discovers clues to make her think her aunt was
still alive.
Now her uncle is dead and it appears to be murder
plus the couple living in the Constellation have also
died under mysterious circumstances.
Things are not as they seem and Darya starts to
do her own investigation.
This is a riveting and gripping talently written
mystery with well defined and artfully crafted
characters that all blend into the final solution.
I enjoyed learning about Goa and other little towns
mentioned throughout the story. I felt like I was
right there involved with Darya. I felt her confusion,
her sadness, her happiness and look forward to
reading the next adventure she will face.
I volunteered to read Kiss of Salt. Thanks to the
author vis the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is voluntary and my own.
A Highly Recommended Read!!!
August 27, 2021
What a twisty-twervy thriller. Although this book started off slow, it certainly ended with a bang.
After Darya Nandkarni's uncle passes she heads to Heliconia Lane in South Goa to take care of things for her family. Darya has just gotten out of a bad relationship and has quit her job to do this and is keeping those facts a secret from her family. Heliconia Lane consists of three houses and being at her uncle's house is stirring up memories of her childhood. The book is primarily about her Aunt Farideh who had gone missing more than 20 years ago and how her Uncle Paritosh, whose house she is cleaning out, had continued searching for her through all of his years, but is also about the residents of the houses on Heliconia Lane. The longer Darya stays, the more information comes to light, and strange things begin to happen.
There were just a handful of characters and I loved being able to connect with them. Although it started off rather slow (2nd book this year to help me with the meaning of "slow burn"), the more you read, the quicker the pace, leading you to a page turning end! The way the author explained the area, it almost felt like I was there. The only downfall was that I'm not so familiar with the country and/or culture, therefor I struggled with some of the terminology and words used but I love reading books based in other countries because it is like a trip somewhere that I haven't been. Overall, fantastic mystery thriller that I was glad to have read.
After Darya Nandkarni's uncle passes she heads to Heliconia Lane in South Goa to take care of things for her family. Darya has just gotten out of a bad relationship and has quit her job to do this and is keeping those facts a secret from her family. Heliconia Lane consists of three houses and being at her uncle's house is stirring up memories of her childhood. The book is primarily about her Aunt Farideh who had gone missing more than 20 years ago and how her Uncle Paritosh, whose house she is cleaning out, had continued searching for her through all of his years, but is also about the residents of the houses on Heliconia Lane. The longer Darya stays, the more information comes to light, and strange things begin to happen.
There were just a handful of characters and I loved being able to connect with them. Although it started off rather slow (2nd book this year to help me with the meaning of "slow burn"), the more you read, the quicker the pace, leading you to a page turning end! The way the author explained the area, it almost felt like I was there. The only downfall was that I'm not so familiar with the country and/or culture, therefor I struggled with some of the terminology and words used but I love reading books based in other countries because it is like a trip somewhere that I haven't been. Overall, fantastic mystery thriller that I was glad to have read.
December 1, 2019
Nice read
Book Name: Kiss of Salt
Author: Smita Bhattacharya
Publisher: Rumor Books India
Page: 314
Genre: Mystery
The book is all about the murder mystery. The protagonist Darya who wants to take a pause after the breakup with her boyfriend Spandan. She moves to her uncle's house located in Heliconia Lane by the beach after her uncle died. Darya unfolds the mystery in her own way and finds out the murder. Each character is portrayed in a way that everyone is suspected to be a murderer. The book is purely a page-turner and Dharya's expedition at the verge to captivate the murderer is enchanted. Suspense is maintained till the end. The cover page added the much-needed spice to the reader to tempt them to for it.
My Rating:4/5
#teammysecretbookself
Book Name: Kiss of Salt
Author: Smita Bhattacharya
Publisher: Rumor Books India
Page: 314
Genre: Mystery
The book is all about the murder mystery. The protagonist Darya who wants to take a pause after the breakup with her boyfriend Spandan. She moves to her uncle's house located in Heliconia Lane by the beach after her uncle died. Darya unfolds the mystery in her own way and finds out the murder. Each character is portrayed in a way that everyone is suspected to be a murderer. The book is purely a page-turner and Dharya's expedition at the verge to captivate the murderer is enchanted. Suspense is maintained till the end. The cover page added the much-needed spice to the reader to tempt them to for it.
My Rating:4/5
#teammysecretbookself
September 24, 2019
POSITIVE WORDS:
》An engaging whodunit I read after a long time. Truth be told, I waited for this book and was not disappointed by it.
》 Won't get into the blurb, but that's what got me interested.
》 The narrative is not dillusional.
》The language is enough to drag to the depth of the tale.
》 A meticulously woven tale without any lingering loophole.
》The front cover is thought ful and somewhat symbolic.
_________________________
NEGATIVE WORDS:
》 The pace of the story is a bit slow.
》 Only if the story could be shortened.
》An engaging whodunit I read after a long time. Truth be told, I waited for this book and was not disappointed by it.
》 Won't get into the blurb, but that's what got me interested.
》 The narrative is not dillusional.
》The language is enough to drag to the depth of the tale.
》 A meticulously woven tale without any lingering loophole.
》The front cover is thought ful and somewhat symbolic.
_________________________
NEGATIVE WORDS:
》 The pace of the story is a bit slow.
》 Only if the story could be shortened.
October 20, 2019
Kiss of Salt is a book that has a little bit of everything and in just the right mix to keep the reader hooked. An ideal setting, an old mystery, some new twists and the promise of a suspense laced journey makes this book a winner.
Read the detailed review here - https://www.bookgeeks.in/kiss-of-salt...
Read the detailed review here - https://www.bookgeeks.in/kiss-of-salt...
November 26, 2020
It is a short book and filled with intriguing elements. With the backdrop of Goa, the book is a pleasure to read. Darya’s character as a woman who came on a break to a woman investigating a case happens with a gradual pace.
The author has described the scenes of Goa vividly, and the reader will have no difficulty imaging the scenes inside the house or on the streets. She has an innate sense of storytelling. She describes the street scenes with honesty and clarity.
The book has a few characters, and each one of them has a role to play in the story. Each character has a motive to cause harm. And similar to Agatha Christie, Darya also brings everyone together to reveal the culprit and their motives.
The subject of the book hints towards domestic violence, and the author has done a brilliant job of showcasing it. The victim, quite often, does not realize the abuse, only in hindsight, they comprehend the red flags. And time and again, society also turns a blind eye towards them as it’s not their problem. She also portrayed how the victim feels isolated and helpless in such situations.
Every chapter ends on a cliffhanger, pushing the reader to keep reading (readers can finish reading in one sitting).
Thinking of reading a good mystery set by a seaside, this is your pick!
My rating is 3.5 stars.
The author has described the scenes of Goa vividly, and the reader will have no difficulty imaging the scenes inside the house or on the streets. She has an innate sense of storytelling. She describes the street scenes with honesty and clarity.
The book has a few characters, and each one of them has a role to play in the story. Each character has a motive to cause harm. And similar to Agatha Christie, Darya also brings everyone together to reveal the culprit and their motives.
The subject of the book hints towards domestic violence, and the author has done a brilliant job of showcasing it. The victim, quite often, does not realize the abuse, only in hindsight, they comprehend the red flags. And time and again, society also turns a blind eye towards them as it’s not their problem. She also portrayed how the victim feels isolated and helpless in such situations.
Every chapter ends on a cliffhanger, pushing the reader to keep reading (readers can finish reading in one sitting).
Thinking of reading a good mystery set by a seaside, this is your pick!
My rating is 3.5 stars.
November 25, 2019
s a story of Darya who came to his uncle's place at Goa to clear his house after his death. Darya who is already tired of her life, her job and boyfriend is here for a break from everything. While collecting his uncle's things she found out some letters from her late aunt. But but she has some serious doubts. She thinks her uncle was murdered, her aunt is alive and there is something cooking between the people of her colony. How is she gonna solve it all?.
The plot of the story is super interesting. I liked how the author developed the plot. The way each and every mystery unfolds with each chapter is amazing. The narration of the book is crisp and engrossing. The author keeps the reader hooked throughout from the very first page. It's a slow-paced book with too many details which made me lil tedious. The author builds curiosity to know what will happen next? How will Darya solve it? The character development done by the author is commendable. Each character has their own secrets described by the author interestingly. There are two stories simultaneously happening and Darya trying to solve it.
CONTINUED: https://www.instagram.com/p/B5PHe1ygh3M/
The plot of the story is super interesting. I liked how the author developed the plot. The way each and every mystery unfolds with each chapter is amazing. The narration of the book is crisp and engrossing. The author keeps the reader hooked throughout from the very first page. It's a slow-paced book with too many details which made me lil tedious. The author builds curiosity to know what will happen next? How will Darya solve it? The character development done by the author is commendable. Each character has their own secrets described by the author interestingly. There are two stories simultaneously happening and Darya trying to solve it.
CONTINUED: https://www.instagram.com/p/B5PHe1ygh3M/
September 9, 2021
I really enjoyed this one, primarily because of the location. This time around, Darya travels go Goa (India) to help sort through the estate of a deceased relative. I enjoyed reading about amateur sleuth Darya and how she went about solving her case, while learning a good bit about Goa and the surrounding areas along the way. (I am a BIG fan of Goa, and wanted to travel there someday even before reading this book. Now I want to go even more.)
The plot moved along at a good pace. Darya discovers something among her uncle's papers that makes her think something suspicious is going on. Then the body count starts rising, and it's time for a serious investigation!
Darya herself is an intriguing protagonist, and I enjoy learning more about her with each new book. (I started the series with Book 3, and am now going back to read the first two.) She is multi-faceted, dealing with some issues, but still likeable and clever.
Recommended for cozy fans who like their mysteries with a bit of an edge and a nice dose of international settings!
The plot moved along at a good pace. Darya discovers something among her uncle's papers that makes her think something suspicious is going on. Then the body count starts rising, and it's time for a serious investigation!
Darya herself is an intriguing protagonist, and I enjoy learning more about her with each new book. (I started the series with Book 3, and am now going back to read the first two.) She is multi-faceted, dealing with some issues, but still likeable and clever.
Recommended for cozy fans who like their mysteries with a bit of an edge and a nice dose of international settings!
November 11, 2020
Kiss of Salt is a mystery set in Goa (southwestern coast of India) in 2009. It is written in the third person from Darya's perspective. Darya leaves Mumbai to clear out her recently deceased Uncle's house in Goa. The house is one of only three on Haliconia Lane. 20 years before, Darya's aunt disappeared from that house.
This story has themes of family secrets, lies, loyalty, and close-knit community. The characters were mercurial and enigmatic (except for Darya). This fit the themes of secrets and lies. I loved the ending with the gathering of the suspects (very Agatha Christie but with a very un-Christie twist!)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story has themes of family secrets, lies, loyalty, and close-knit community. The characters were mercurial and enigmatic (except for Darya). This fit the themes of secrets and lies. I loved the ending with the gathering of the suspects (very Agatha Christie but with a very un-Christie twist!)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 28, 2021
I liked it. It wasn't my favorite book by any means, but it was intriguing and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen. It started off really slowly, and I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to keep going. Once I got past the first few chapters and hit the first piece of the puzzle to be revealed, I was convinced.
There were some places that seemed like the book wasn't edited particularly well. A few instances of words used inappropriately and possibly intended to be something else, but it wasn't a show stopper. There were a few times that I was thoroughly confused by a strange sentence, but a couple of re-reads and I was on my way forward.
Jury is still out on whether I would go back for another book in this series, but I did enjoy this one for the most part.
I received a kindle format copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
There were some places that seemed like the book wasn't edited particularly well. A few instances of words used inappropriately and possibly intended to be something else, but it wasn't a show stopper. There were a few times that I was thoroughly confused by a strange sentence, but a couple of re-reads and I was on my way forward.
Jury is still out on whether I would go back for another book in this series, but I did enjoy this one for the most part.
I received a kindle format copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 28, 2020
Darya, returns to Heliconia Lane after the death of her uncle. She's there to go through his belongings and get the house closed up. Going back, she remembers her Aunt, Faridah, who disappeared twenty years ago. As she goes through her uncle's things, she begins to question her aunt's disappearence. She also realizes that her aunt's presumed death, her uncle's death, and the death of another couple who live in heliconia Lane are all somehow linked. This book follows her investigation into the twenty years ago death, the two a couple of years ago and her uncle's a few months ago.
I received this book free in return for my review of same.
I received this book free in return for my review of same.
August 13, 2019
Book: Kiss of salt
Author: Smita Bhattacharya
Review: The book opens in a calm and serene manner which is unheard of in a murder mystery book.
The story is about darya who goes to her dead uncles house to collect their remanants and memorabilia after their death, but soon discovers something is amiss. Listening to her instincts she investigates to come to a possible wild outcome.
Read this one to find out what happened next!!!! Writing style is fairly impressive and characterisation of all the characters is good. The story flows easily and the plot doesn’t disappoint.
The cover and name of the novel do justice to the plot.
It would have been the perfect mystery if it was a little fast paced.
You can pick this one up it won’t disappoint.
4/5
Author: Smita Bhattacharya
Review: The book opens in a calm and serene manner which is unheard of in a murder mystery book.
The story is about darya who goes to her dead uncles house to collect their remanants and memorabilia after their death, but soon discovers something is amiss. Listening to her instincts she investigates to come to a possible wild outcome.
Read this one to find out what happened next!!!! Writing style is fairly impressive and characterisation of all the characters is good. The story flows easily and the plot doesn’t disappoint.
The cover and name of the novel do justice to the plot.
It would have been the perfect mystery if it was a little fast paced.
You can pick this one up it won’t disappoint.
4/5
Read
November 2, 2020Winsome Thriller
This book appealed to me as it was written by a young woman of Indian descent. I had found several other authors whose novels were intriguing and unique, all young Indian women. This book went in a totally different direction, and drew me in like a net! I highly recommend getting acquainted with the likable, seemingly befuddled, but very incisive Darya!
This book appealed to me as it was written by a young woman of Indian descent. I had found several other authors whose novels were intriguing and unique, all young Indian women. This book went in a totally different direction, and drew me in like a net! I highly recommend getting acquainted with the likable, seemingly befuddled, but very incisive Darya!
November 29, 2020
Smita sent me a copy of her latest book. Many thanks!
I love a good mystery. This one was one of those slow burners. She set the stage by introducing characters and the real impetus for the mystery in a normal story fashion ( but not actually insinuating there was a mystery). It just slowly developed.
Darya is asked by her father to return to Goa, where her uncle (her father's brother) lived and had just died. He wanted her to sort through his personal belongings and clean up the place as he was unable to do so himself. As Darya is there, she has memories of the good times in the past when she visited with her family. However, there was also a tragic event that stopped her and her family from visiting for the past 20 years. Pieces, memories and questions cause Darya to explore this tragic event and voila, we have a mystery.
I have to say, Smita had me totally fooled as to the outcome. A very good 'who dunnit'.
I love a good mystery. This one was one of those slow burners. She set the stage by introducing characters and the real impetus for the mystery in a normal story fashion ( but not actually insinuating there was a mystery). It just slowly developed.
Darya is asked by her father to return to Goa, where her uncle (her father's brother) lived and had just died. He wanted her to sort through his personal belongings and clean up the place as he was unable to do so himself. As Darya is there, she has memories of the good times in the past when she visited with her family. However, there was also a tragic event that stopped her and her family from visiting for the past 20 years. Pieces, memories and questions cause Darya to explore this tragic event and voila, we have a mystery.
I have to say, Smita had me totally fooled as to the outcome. A very good 'who dunnit'.
November 11, 2019
4.5* .... Gripping thriller and definitely a page turner .. but bit slow paced...keeps you guessing till the end...
October 17, 2019
Sometimes it's all about the soothing waves and kissing tides that calm your soul.
Kiss of salt by Smita falls under the cozy Indian mysteries any author hasn't touched till date. The story revolves around Darya, a strong and independent protagonist who lived in Heliconia Lane, Goa twenty years ago. It was a dream heaven for Darya, not until her aunt Farideh goes missing. 20 years down the line she comes back to Goa on hearing her uncle’s death. Little did she know, there were mysteries associated with their deaths. Will Darya be able to know the truth behind their deaths. Will she be able to relish the essence of her dream land like ever before??
The title and the cover page hold a depth in their creation.
The description of Goa was serene.
The story goes at an average pace but however keeps the reader hooked.
With proper sequencing and good succession of events, the author was at her best and so does the unfolding of mystery.
The names were chosen unique and the characters were described the best.
To those readers who are looking for a good mystery read, this one is highly recommended.
Kiss of salt by Smita falls under the cozy Indian mysteries any author hasn't touched till date. The story revolves around Darya, a strong and independent protagonist who lived in Heliconia Lane, Goa twenty years ago. It was a dream heaven for Darya, not until her aunt Farideh goes missing. 20 years down the line she comes back to Goa on hearing her uncle’s death. Little did she know, there were mysteries associated with their deaths. Will Darya be able to know the truth behind their deaths. Will she be able to relish the essence of her dream land like ever before??
The title and the cover page hold a depth in their creation.
The description of Goa was serene.
The story goes at an average pace but however keeps the reader hooked.
With proper sequencing and good succession of events, the author was at her best and so does the unfolding of mystery.
The names were chosen unique and the characters were described the best.
To those readers who are looking for a good mystery read, this one is highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews