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Contamination

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The first madness was that She was born. That the Gods stuffed Her into a bag of tiny human skin. The second madness was, the Gods stuffed Her inside—with Us. “Let her die. Patala has her eye on her,” warned the Village-Shaman. Twenty years on, Amba is too embroiled in her human wars to bother about the voices inside her. Gun-toting psychopath Colonel Rosie Madbull is inflicting dreadful vengeance on her people to get his hands on the gold which is discovered under their soil. But he and his army of bloodthirsty criminalsa have to confront the battle-hardened Amba. But she is no ordinary girl. Fleeing from Madbull’s jail, into the fearsome Jotsoma forest, Amba is destined to fulfil many a prophecy—from seeking refuge inside a monster buffalo and coming face to face with the menacing Patala and her demonic pet Domovai. But her ceremony of ordeals is far from over. In an apocalyptic battle between the good and the evil, she will be forced to unleash the terrifying Furies. But they don’t come alone. They bring the insidious Others, who are now out of control. Hunting with Them will take Amba to the very edge of being a human…

238 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2022

1 person is currently reading
10 people want to read

About the author

Richa Lakhera

14 books21 followers
Ten years of entertainment journalism. A lifetime of manoranjan junkie. Richa believes that you should accept your most demented thoughts fears and fantasies.
Born in Dehradun. Richa did her Masters in Chemistry from Miranda House, before she studied Journalism. Special Correspondent and TV Anchor Richa is currently Associate Editor, entertainment in a prominent news channel. She has extensively covered Hindi Cinema, Bollywood, Fashion and Art in several prominent national news channels and reported from Delhi to Dubai

She has produced, anchored and reported for shows like Night Out, Bollywood Quiz show idbi sawaal india ka, Glamour Show,Filmy Friday, Cinema India, Cinema ke Sikander, Raat Baki.

Richa is a fine artist. She stays in Delhi with her husband and daughter

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Dalia (book_o_creativity).
566 reviews76 followers
November 20, 2022
4.5

The first madness was that She was born. That the Gods stuffed Her into a bag of tiny human skin. The second madness was, the Gods stuffed Her inside with Us. Amba is too embroiled in her human wars to bother about the voices inside her. Training in warfare has turned her into battle-hardened weapon, ready to unleash her wrath on the psychopath Colonel Rosie Madbull who is inflicting horrors on her people to get his hands on the gold that lay under their soil. Atrocities committed by Madbull and his men has now forced Amba to only one option that will take her to the very edge of being human.

If a book could get eerie and deeply engaging at the same time then the answer would be this book. Contamination is a dark, terrifying, richly fantastical book dwelling in the wicked world of Amba. The book threatens to nullify the subtle line between reality and fantasy with the amazing writing that creates an other worldly ambience in every sense. If anything that fuels my curiosity for the unknown and unexplored world of dark fantasy horror is the ancient mythology and supernatural occurences, mysteries that lure me in the deep pens of occult. And this book has that perfect plot development. Amba is a character who grabs your attention at the very beginning. Her character development is really good in this book. Apart from Amba, there is Patala and Tara. I found each women portraying different yet very strong characters in this book. There were other characters too but they were dropped abruptly and I wanted to know more about them.

Considering a small book this has a really good plot and storylin, good story building but the ending was rushed a bit. Beautiful narration is what makes this book more engaging and satisfying that will leave you wanting more. This book has violence and is not masked by any sweet talk so it might be triggering for some.
Profile Image for Mahi Aggarwal.
1,003 reviews26 followers
November 20, 2022
Contamination by Richa Lakhera is a horror thriller novel. The story revolves around our main character Amba,She desires to be just like every other person. However, in an epic war she is compelled to expose her great powers and is brought to the edge of her humanity.The author has done an examplary work in writing this gripping book which will keep you engrossed and in a shroud of mystery throughout the course of the book. She has added all the perfect ingredients that are necessary to make this an intriguing and worthy read. In a way, this book has all the masala to turn it into a script for an amazing movie or web-series. The cover of the book has a daunting look attached to it and is apt for the storyline. The climax is totally unexpected and will make you experience a high level of thrill. This book will definitely appeal to folks who enjoy reading novels that's centred around suspense, thriller, horror etc. when you read this book, you will experience that the entirety is going on in the front of your eyes. It is a totally easy and Beginners pleasant book. Language and presentation is in reality well. Having a penchant for Horror thriller genre I, totally got engrossed in this book. Be the setting, characters,themes or plots all propelled the action forward and took me on a roller coaster ride.
113 reviews3 followers
November 28, 2022
This chilling supernatural thriller with a dash of witchcraft revolves around Amba, a unique girl, who was bestowed with a dark prophesy on her birth. Amba hosts the spirits of the dead inside her, fights this constant raging battle with her inner demons, while the evil mongers in her village try to plot every possible crooked plan to get their hands on the new-found gold in their lands. What would Amba have to unleash to save everything?

The beginning of the book itself was chilling and spooky! The description of the village, the world building was laudable and it got me hooked to the book. The plot was quite captivating and on the whole it’s a unique read. The dynamics between the villagers and Amba’s family members was well-written.

Though the advanced writing style was noteworthy, I felt that it lacked originality, as I noticed that a couple of consecutive sentences were almost identical to Circe. Though it was a short read, it felt stretched and vague at some points.

On the whole this would be an interesting read for anyone who is looking for a spine-chilling female centric book with a dash of spookiness and thrill
Profile Image for Ishan Agrawal.
949 reviews49 followers
November 25, 2022
There are very few books which shakes you to the core with its supernatural element. Though this one falls in one separate category and I have quite a mixed feeling about it.

The story is full of violence and war is at the forefront. The characters have a terrifying vibe to them. And the shoddines is all at play.

The book is quite complex to follow with difficult plots to process. Also the tale never gets a closure . Its only bloodshed and terror and only that seemed to be the motive. Also cohesion is by and large missing in the tale. The detailing is excessive and I as a reader don't prefer that in a novel that is supposed to be horror.

Overall an okayish read and discretionary advice will be needed for young readers
Profile Image for Sameer Gudhate.
1,377 reviews47 followers
March 17, 2023
The current era of Indian literature boasts a plethora of strong and multifaceted female protagonists. These lead characters are imbued with a depth of emotion and an unwavering determination that resonates with readers, inspiring and uplifting them in equal measure. These women embody the trials and tribulations faced by the modern Indian woman, carving their own paths amidst a patriarchal society. Through their trials, these characters exhibit qualities of courage, resilience, and independence, making them role models for the contemporary reader. They are not just limited to the traditional roles of a nurturer or a damsel in distress but are fully-realized individuals with their own ambitions and desires. They are unafraid to break stereotypes, challenge societal norms and take a stand against injustice. These leading ladies not only showcase the strength of women but also highlight the social and political issues that women face in modern times. They are a reflection of the evolving mindset of Indian society and an inspiration to women everywhere to pursue their dreams and fight for their rights.

Contamination, an enchanting work of fiction by the talented Richa Lakhera, is a mesmerizing and intricate tale that follows the trials and tribulations of a valiant female warrior in present times. The novel's layered plotline, rife with twists and turns, captivates the reader from the get-go, taking them on a thrilling and unforgettable journey. At the heart of the narrative is the remarkable and relatable character of Amba, whose strength and amiability make her a standout protagonist. Yet, when she discovers the terrible truth about the malicious Madbull's destructive intentions towards the village of Habishi, Amba is forced to confront a harsh and unforgiving reality. Her unconventional appearance and behavior mark her as a witch in the eyes of the villagers, adding another layer of complexity to her challenges. As she aids the village, Madbull captures her and confines her to the hellish Baikaal prison. Despite the horrors she faces there, Amba manages to break free and return to Habishi, only to realize that she must first change herself before she can change anything else. With its beautifully crafted prose and unforgettable characters, Contamination is a literary triumph that will leave readers breathless with anticipation at every turn of the page.

This scintillating tale is an extraordinary blend of the supernatural, mythology, and horror, taking readers on a mesmerizing journey through the intricate interplay of power, lust, greed, courage, and cowardice. With deft skill, the creator skillfully weaves together a complex tapestry of language, characters, plot, descriptions, and environmental settings to create a captivating world that readers will find difficult to resist. The central conflict of the story is masterfully resolved, leaving a lasting impression on the reader's imagination. The vivid and unforgettable landscapes and settings of the story are sure to leave an indelible mark in the reader's memory. The inclusion of a map at the beginning of the book enhances the reading experience, providing a clear and concise visual representation of the world depicted in the story. The writing style is exquisite, replete with beautiful turns of phrase, while the language is accessible and easy to comprehend.

In essence, this book is a mesmerizing journey brimming with action, suspense, and thrilling encounters that will enthral admirers of mythological and fantasy literature. Notably, the incorporation of actual world predicaments, such as the greed for gold and the ensuing battles, infuses a compelling layer of intricacy into the tale. While the narrative tantalizes the imagination, it also deliberately leaves some inquiries unanswered, thereby sparking a sense of curiosity and intrigue that can inspire readers to delve further into the story's unfolding secrets.
Profile Image for bookloverbiswa.
173 reviews8 followers
November 26, 2022
✨In the event that you are searching for a creepy, paranormal read with rushes and blood and passings, look no further. Richa Lakhera's Contamination is the ideal book for you. A splendid piece of work by the writer "Richa Lakhera" is tracked down in the book. This story is about the hesitant legend, Amba. She wants to be very much like every other person. Nonetheless, in a legendary fight, she is compelled to show her uncommon powers and is brought to the edge of her humankind. Amba's story starts with the introduction of a witch. When she is conceived, she is accepted to be a witch and her clan is unnerved by her. Indeed, even her kin are frozen. This story is an optimal blend of uncommon fables and unpleasantness.

✨️In the earliest reference point of the book, one might feel somewhat hard to get a handle on the ongoings, however, ultimately the story ends up being a holding story. The book likewise has a dash of traditional works. The book closes impeccably, with next to no cliffhangers; giving a concise depiction of what the characters are going through, in the given timeframe. The creator has decent control over the language and makes sense of for her absolute best, the characters alongside the plot, portrayals, and ecological settings. The contention of the plot is settled flawlessly. The scenery and setting of the story are with the end goal that, a peruser will recall it for eternity. New perusers and novices might find the book somewhat challenging to get a handle on; will prescribe the book to eager perusers and fiction devotees.

✨️Overall, THIS IS A MUST-READ. Written cautiously, this book is something that will be a joy to peruse, and I prescribe you to peruse it. This book is certainly worth the buy and worth the read. Go For It Guys, and grab your copy now from amazon.

Book Review By Biswajit Samal
Profile Image for Sonali Sharma.
Author 2 books19 followers
November 25, 2022
📌𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄-
🔺Amba is too embroiled in her human wars to bother about the voices inside her. Gun-toting psychopath Colonel Rosie Madbull is inflicting dreadful vengeance on her people to get his hands on the gold which is discovered under their soil.
🔺But he and his army of bloodthirsty criminalsa have to confront the battle-hardened Amba. But she is no ordinary girl.
🔺Fleeing from Madbull’s jail, into the fearsome Jotsoma forest, Amba is destined to fulfil many a prophecy—from seeking refuge inside a monster buffalo and coming face to face with the menacing Patala and her demonic pet Domovai 😯grab the book and find out what happens next?
🤓Swipe for some excerpts!

📌𝗠𝘆 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸-
🔺Amba, a girl from a small village of Habishi residing around the Hori mountains is the lead protagonist of the story.
🔺I liked how the author poured in such an awestrucking description to Amba and the plot fo the story.
🔺 Elements like old witch, monsterous bull, dark forests, baikaal prison make the story more appealing and visualising.
🔺I guess, a short film based on these characters will make the novel more interesting! Over all it was an experience that can divert you to some different world.
🔺 Initially when I started this book, it wasn't a get going for me. I dropped it and picked it up a week later. It was a kind of okayish read for me!

📌𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻
A story of a girl named Amba, who tries to save the villagers of Habishi. Her fate makes her understand she isn't just a normal human. She has some eternal powers which she has to learn to balance around!

🤔𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱?
Not recommend to beginners as you might not find it much interesting due to high vocabulary used. 👻Rest if you enjoy reading about fantasy and horror drives you crazy📘 this is your pick then!
Profile Image for Ekta M.
542 reviews4 followers
November 28, 2022
In the Hori mountains in village of Habishi there was a girl named Amba. There was something different externally about her. Witch, is what some people called her. Colonel Madbull's murderous army, the Red-Hounds would torture the people of Habishi village to get the gold Madbull believed was buried under their soil. He would never stop. Amba wanted to protect the villagers. When Amba is taken away by Madbull and locked away in Baikaal prison she escapes somehow and finds herself in the Jotsoma forest where she meets a strange figure. Her fate. A prophecy.

To save the Habishi villagers Amba will have to unlearn and shed her human ways soon. She would have to learn the new balance between Her and Us.

#bookreview
When i saw the blurb, i knew i had to read this. Right from the starting the book is exciting. Addition of the map of the Hinterlands of Hori added to the excitement. The introduction of Amba was itself spine-chilling and eerie. The blood lust colonel, the frightening jotsoma forest, the atrocities in the baikaal prison, the monstrous buffalo, the old witch, the creatures...all these elements make the story dark and appealing.
I love the author's choice of words. The vocabulary was high level. At times it was hard to understand what was going on and i wish the ending could have been more satisfying.
But altogether it was unique and engaging. I liked the concept. The setting, the characters everything was just perfect. I could already see a series being made on this. It would be exciting to watch this book come alive on screen.

If you love reading fantasy, horror, thriller then go for it. I wouldn't suggest this to beginners but if you are good with high level vocabulary then you can pick this up.
Profile Image for Anjali Sharma.
975 reviews59 followers
November 30, 2022
If you are looking for a spooky, paranormal read with thrills and gore and deaths, look no further. Richa Lakhera's Contamination is just the perfect book for you. It is India's first military fiction plus horror book. It is the story of a girl traumatised by war and tormented by supernatural horrors.

Amba was born as a weak baby whom no one expected to survive. Amba grew up to be a twenty-year-old tough-headed girl who had been hardened by battles. Rosie Madbull, a psychopath Colonel, is seeking vengeance on Amba's men to get the gold discovered under their soil.

The Madbull is the least of the problems in Amba's life. She was born with something inside her, a "contamination", and when the "others" get out of control, what will happen in the ultimate apocalyptic battle between the good and the evil?

From the first page itself, the author created this spooky atmosphere through her beautiful and atmospheric writing, which I loved. The map at the beginning made me visualise the places, and I could see the scenes in my mind's eye. This book is unlike anything I have ever read. The story is so gripping and captivating that it just engulfs you.

What I liked the most about this book was definitely the author's writing style and the story. The ending gave me goosebumps. Another thing I really liked was how the author used Indian-ness in this story. The setup, the characters, and even the patal are things that we have heard of in myths and lore. This made the book even more captivating and spooky for me.
Profile Image for Unboxing Perspectives.
353 reviews7 followers
November 20, 2022
Indian horror is quite rare for me and that made me pick this book up. This was my first book in Action Horror genre. The book is filled up with loads of action combining it with witchcraft, age old customs, two POVs and lot other factors.

The book revolves around the story of Amba who is born with bad prophecies and a contamination. As she grows up she constantly struggels with her own mind within as well as fights wars against people trying to destroy her place.

The book is filled up with action - that too a brutal action. If you like action movies and indian horror movies, you can surely go for this one. The scenes are vividly explained, sometimes unbearably explained and we get two POVs in the entire story. It makes you imagine the story like a movie. The language is good. Sometimes it takes time to understand the scene but overall it's good and you get to learn a lot of new words. As the story moves it became slightly boring but the pace was picked up by the end. I liked the way the characters are shown and how strong Amba can be in spite of all odds against her. She is not perfect but she fights and keeps on the fight till the end. There are certain loose ends which were not taken up till the end of the story. Beginners may find the book a little difficult to grasp; will recommend the book to avid readers and fiction fanatics. Overall a recommended read for people looking for action packed horror. Beware it can be guresome at times.
Profile Image for Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf.
508 reviews12 followers
December 5, 2022
This is a spine-chilling story that will take you into the realms of the supernatural. It is a horror story filled with a lot of thrill and twists and turns that will have you turning pages faster and faster.
Every page has something bizarre and some mysterious vibe that makes this book an interesting read. This is a mix of fantasy and horror that is sure to keep you engaged throughout.
Amba, the protagonist, is just like any other girl trying to fit in but due to her super powers she is misunderstood and is ignored and put away. The turmoil and the feelings that she experiences are touching as well as relatable.
Even though we know good will triumph over evil, the author has penned it in such a way that it makes the ending interesting. The way it was handled is laudable.
The grievous war with Madbull and his army of bloodthirsty criminals does not deter Amba and we can see that she is a force to be reckoned with! Her escape from the jail and her facing various demos and supernatural animals show her fearlessness, strength, and her will. Colonel Madbull’s character will make you hate him with all your heart!

The characterization is good and leaves us wanting more from them. The language is just right, simple, and easy to follow. The story flows well keeping us hooked with the cliffhangers and twists.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves the horror genre or is into supernatural thrillers. I am sure you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Periwinkle  Wisteria .
407 reviews12 followers
November 20, 2022
TW - Violence, Blood and Gore

I haven't read a horror story for quite a while now and this has been a welcome break. The cover gives off an eerie vibe which led me to pick this book up. The book is a blend of suspense and horror entwined supernatural elements

Our protagonist, Amba, was born a little different and had special powers. As a result she was accused of being a witch and faced resentment from the village as well as her family. 20 years later, she was to take down the psychopath Colonel Madbull and fulfil a prophecy, but her human nature is put to test. Will she succeed? Read on to find out.

I must say that the theme is nice but it lacked proper execution. The suspense element is well built and the story has unexpected twists and turns. Characterisation is appreciable. But I felt that the plot has been made unnecessarily complicated so it was difficult to follow at places. It was way too intense for me and there's just too much violence and blood. These kind of stories should come with proper trigger warnings but the lack of it was a major turn off for me. Also some parts felt too descriptive and verbose. So I feel, this is a very potential theme but presentation and execution needs some work.

Overall, I'll say it's a good book for horror lovers but you really need to be prepared for something intense!
Profile Image for Dharmendra.
345 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2022
Title: Contamination
Author: Richa Lakhera

Review:

“Contamination” by Richa Lakhera is an absolutely riveting thriller with multiple layers to enthuse as well as surprise readers as they turn pages to grasp the monumental story offered to them. Sprawled over two hundred and forty pages, the books keeps a woman named Amba at the centre of the story. Amba’s life is watermarked and mystified by the strange things that pop up every now and then not only causing misery to her but also bringing her to the cusp of life.

From a child who’s birth is suspected of bringing great misfortune, to that of a girl turning out as the saviour for the same people. The book like a moving scenery ( often scary and ugly) takes readers on a journey that explores themes which fall between the black and white shades of life. Amba with all its glory is gory as well as dreadful but yet she fights for the good and takes on the evil Colonel.

Overall, written in a simple and lucid language with strong characters and engrossing plot, “Contamination” is an unusual yet captivating read that keeps readers hooked till the end. Not falling into a particular template of fiction, it is a refreshing and powerful tale. A perfect read for bibliophiles this autumn.

Would recommend it to everyone!

Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
381 reviews8 followers
November 20, 2022
I didn't just read this book I felt the tale giving me chills till the very end!
The story captures the eerie feeling, the intrigue and brilliance that comes with a good narration, articulates suspense, drama heartaches and gore so aptly!
This was my First book Richa Lakhera and boy oh boy am I a big fan now!
I was apprehensive pf demonic action packed mystery theme at the beginning but with a first' few chapters i was enraptured and left scared at the same time. The whole ordeals and mayhem what Amba went through is still fresh in my mind and i was on edge with unfolding of plots.

It's not a comfortable read, it summons rage, exhaustion,devastation and meant to leave a lasting impression. Moreover there's so many aspects and theme explored in one tale be it horror, mystery, action, gore.
What made it a PAGE TURNER is the unanticipated direction Richa Lakhera took this thriller, and that truly pay offs making it a delightfully twisty read.
Every thing the world building, the characters, the epic story telling, fight scenes, moral teachings, highs and lows with secrets,suspense, battles, Evil beings was superb!

If you looking for an unimaginable and immersive read go for this book.
Profile Image for Dr. Devanshi Joshi.
334 reviews13 followers
November 20, 2022
Format- Paperback
Pages- 233 pages

The presented book "Contamination " jotted by Author , Richa Lakhera is an intense & gripping tale of the supernatural & horror.

This is my first ever horror read I can say, but throughout reading I enjoyed it.

The story is of Amba, a strong girl who is encountered by her reality when she gets to know that she has to fight the evil deeds of the Col. Rosie Madbull, the psychopath, the destroyer of Habishi Village where he believes gold is buried.

Amba is believed to be a witch. But things turns upside down when Madbull finds Amba helping the villagers. She was taken away & captured, locked in Baikaal prison, but she managed to escape anyhow. Then when she returns, she realizes she'll have to change many things, starting from herself first. The journey of Amba is full of crusades to conquer the evil. The journey give rise to friends & enemies also.

It is not just an ordinary horror, it is also spiced up with supernatural power comprising of mythological beasts. The character of Amba is overwhelming. The story at some phase felt slow-paced but the story is competent.

Fiction enthusiasts will love it. Also the ones who love to read supernatural stuff will find it engaging.

Happy reading peeps!!!.
Profile Image for Varma Shagun.
832 reviews8 followers
November 22, 2022
"The first madness was that She was born. That the Gods stuffed Her into a bag of tiny human skin. The second madness was, the Gods stuffed Her inside - with Us."

✓Being an ardent reader of supernatural and horror, when this book was recommended to me, I agreed to give this a try instantly. Considering the fact that the blurb intrigued me and the amount of appreciation this book has received, I didn't give any second thought before picking this up.
✓The story revolves around a battle on field and a battle within that Amba, the main character, has to participate in. The story represents Fantasy and Horror. The plot is backed up by supernatural demonic beings and powers which are beyond the human realm.
✓In the beginning, the story seemed too slow and confusing, but gradually it picks up its pace and things start becoming clear. The character portrayal is impressive. This is a highly engaging read.
✓The language is lucid but this sort of narration requires a good amount of concentration, in my opinion. I could not relate the appropriateness of the cover with the story line, however, the title is definitely an appropriate one. This one time read is impressive and can be given a try if you are into fantasy-horror.
260 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2022
Trigger Warning: Rape, Voilence,Gory

The last time my patience was put to test with regards to horror,I was addictively consuming pages and the plot of the book “Girl in the Glass Case”, by Devashish Sardana. And today after a massive horror slump, I have finally finished “Contamination” by Richa Lakhera.
Set around the modern times, the plot circles around “Amba” special child or the “glitch of the universe”, battling voices inside her which are almost demonic, Amba becomes the subject of resentment while she grows up.
One prophecy and immense bloodshed. The book in a nutshell is a highly detailed, descriptive, and gory account of the most often fought battle between the good and the evil.
Being written with dual P.O.Vs the plot was intricate and a little above the average level of readers.It’s not a book we can skim through, on the contrary you need to be completely engrossed by it.
The writer, Richa Lakhera is one talented lady who understands the importance of reader engagement and prose. The book begins like a confusing horror plot but leaves me racing through each page to know more about its enigmatic characters, quickly making me eager to read her next venture. You will not regret picking it up.

Profile Image for Sagar Naskar.
810 reviews14 followers
November 22, 2022
Book : Contamination
Author : Richa Lakhera

I randomly picked up this book but it turned up ending my favourite novel. I’m really happy that this was the first ever horror book I’ve read as well as sad that today it’s completed. In this I really appreciate the wordplay and the storyline. The author narrates the story in a very effective way, that you can't put it down until you reach the last chapter. Suspense is built up throughout the book.

Each chapter will leave you in trills and suspense and confusion and you’ll start guessing from the very beginning. I always thought that books are not for me or how a book can beat a movie, right on my face, it game me real thrill and chills at some points in last chapters.

The story is spine chilling, errie, dark and appealing. The settings, the characters, the choice of words everything is so perfect. A good fantastical world with a pinch of horror. I think this is a really great work by Richa Lakhera. looks like it gave me a love for reading. Eagerly waiting for more such books. A complete page-turner. I recommend it to every thrill lover.

⭐ Rating : 4.2/5 🌟⭐
⭐ Must Recommended 🌟
Profile Image for Aditi Bhowmick.
262 reviews11 followers
November 22, 2022
The story is evolving around Amba, I young girl who is believed to be a witch. Amba always wanted to be treated like a normal humanbeing but the villagers were terrified of her. But she got a chanes to show powers and is brought to the edge of her human kind. She got into involved into a fight with the psychopath Colonel Rosie Madbull and his army of bloodthirsty criminal. They were destroyering the Habishi village and torturing the villageas for get his hands on the gold which is discovered under the villager's soil. But unfortunately Madbull finds Amba helping the villagers. She was locked
away in Madbull's Jail, but she managed to escape and into the fearsome Jotosoma forest. Amba is destined to fulfil many a prophecy which include terrifying things.
.
This is a story about a a girl who beloved to be misfortune turns out as the saviour for the same people. The book is a combined tale of dark, horror, fantasy, thriller. It is a horror novel spiced up with witch craft and magic and also there were old witch, monster bull, mythological creatures makes the plot more gripping. The plot construction and character development is really good. Overall I enjoyed this book
95 reviews2 followers
November 26, 2022
Contamination by Richa Lakhera is a grasping and extraordinary spine chiller about a female warrior that is set in the present. The reluctant legend of this story is Amba. She tries to look like every other individual. Be that as it may, during a titanic battle, she is constrained to show her remarkable capacities and is stretched to the edge of humankind.

This story is the ideal combination of fantastic legends and bizarreness. Through this story, we figure out how different circumstances can be impacted by strength, want, hunger, mental sturdiness, and shortcoming. Richly planned characters are available. We can detect how the battle between great and evil normally prompts a showdown in which the two sides endure and paying little heed to which side wins, the result is quite often horrible.

I would propose this book to anyone who appreciates terrifying stories and spine-chilling thrill rides. This book will be a great presentation if you’re new to perusing books or these sorts. I accept it would be a wonderful spot to begin your perception cycle. An entire bundle has been fastidiously written in a huge and coordinated way.

Book Review By Satyajit Samal
270 reviews4 followers
November 22, 2022
I have recently begun perusing the book and it is a genuine exciting read. A dream novel with otherworldly components. A should peruse for all fanatics of this kind. The cover page of the book
'Defilement ' gives me a scarcy feeling when I see it interestingly. It is both scarcy and alluring simultaneously. The title is additionally fitting for the story.
This story is an ideal mix of extraordinary folklore and ghastliness. Through this story we perceive how power, desire, ravenousness, mental fortitude, weakness can influence various circumstances.
The characters are elegantly composed. We can feel how the fight among great and evil generally powers a conflict where everybody endures and regardless of whether one side successes there is dependably a horrible result.
The characters are flawlessly composed. We get to encounter how fight between the great and evil generally powers a conflict in which everybody endures and consistently has unnerving outcomes regardless of whether one party wins.Overall, it was a pleasant story.
Profile Image for Hepzibah Becca Jael.
689 reviews9 followers
November 23, 2022
Contamination
Richa Lakhera

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review

Amba is living a life battling it inside and out, she is sent to do fight the vile works of Col, she is found helping them by Madbull and that's not good for her.
Amba is written as a strong character with opinions but also fights demons within and in reality. The character of Amba is quite well written with delicate twists to make this book a good thrilling read.

This is a supernatural horror book and I loved to dive into the world of Amba the witch. The book is a journey of her battles both within and in the battle field, the book is good but in my opinion it had even more potential to be something more but was missing something. I picked up this book because the blurb was promising and I did like this book, it was gripping but not terrifying enough for my horror loving heart but it did it's job as a fantasy thriller, the plot is steady flowing, the characters well written and developed, the elements of surprise was an added bonus!
452 reviews4 followers
December 12, 2022
A colder time of year read for me by and large has forever been something that conveys a quality of secret in itself. Getting "Tainting" by Richa Lakhera filled the need very well generally. The book, that includes components of both frightfulness and secret has a female warrior, named Amba as the hero.
This story is the best blend of incredible legends and peculiarity. Through this story, we sort out how various conditions can be affected by strength, need, hunger, mental toughness, and inadequacy. Luxuriously arranged characters are accessible. We can recognize how the fight among perfect and evil typically prompts a confrontation in which the different sides persevere and paying little regard to which side wins, the outcome is frequently horrendous.
Generally I adored the entire account of the writer and the story that she portrays in her book is simply advantures, awe-inspiring and somewhat reviving that open your psyche to expand your creative mind and partake in the manner it is so I would propose to peruse the book .
81 reviews
December 18, 2022
Contamination by Richa Lakhera

Pages: 240
Ratings: 4/5⭐

Contamination by Richa Lakhera is a spine-chilling and mysterious book. The book is based on a female warrior set in the new era. She tries to blend with everyone but in reality no one knows her remarkable strengths, capacities and the lengths she can go. It is a story of supernatural and horror events with lots of twists and turns. The book is a complete page turner.

Amba, the protagonist of the story is a girl who is trying to fit in this world like all the other girls, but due to her different abilities and super powers she is mostly misunderstood at times and was ignored by many people. The story flows in a very good manner and all the events are properly laid out and helps understand and put the story in a perspective.

The author has very well penned down the story and the character development throughout is pretty well done. The language is simple and the horror and mystery vibes are clearly portrayed throughout the book. The ending is also very good and unexpected. Recommended to the horror lovers.
Profile Image for Bhawana Somaaya.
Author 26 books16 followers
July 16, 2024
Before I write anything about the book, I would like to say a little about the author. Richa has been a TV journalist for more than a decade and published 6 novels. So, she breaks the myth that factual writers cannot excel in fiction.
Contamination is a story of witches and dark world combined with deep philosophy and extreme sensitivity. It tells us or rather explores the world of the dark forest, dense trees, buffalo, death, despair and desolation. It is a story of savagery; it is a story of prophecy. It combines pain, passion and power. Have you ever wondered why witches are always women? Why it's women who always go through abuse, oppression, exploitation? There are dark doors, darker mysteries and whales’ secrets that is a pleasure to explore and understand because of the very powerful writing and the striking imageries.
If you are a fan of fiction, of the dark dense world, there should be no second thought about picking up this book because it’s a stomach-churning narrative. Congratulations Richa, you have done splendidly, I am extremely proud of you.
209 reviews3 followers
November 20, 2022
Contamination by Richa Lakhera is an intense thriller read, laced with the supernatural horror genre. The cover and the name will definitely attract your attention.

The story is very interesting and which describes more about the family struggles and which makes us go into that state and make ourselves feel and divert into the story. With cliffhangers and supernatural forces the story has become a spine chilling read.

But it's a very interesting family oriented story and the characters are very thrilling horror in this story, Amba the protagonist, who is brave, relentless yet with a prognostication which has been interpreted wrongly and has to face the consequences.

Finally the story is more intriguing and gripping compared to the title of the book. So it's good to have a look into this story once .

I definitely suggest this book to everyone. The cover page is spectacular. The title is precise and aptly thought off, definitely a reader's collector item.
Happy reading.
Profile Image for Avidd_Readerr.
318 reviews
November 20, 2022
The birth of a witch marks the beginning of Amba's narrative. Her tribe fears her from the moment she is born because they think she is a witch. Even her family members are terrified. This narrative is on a young woman named Amba who battles both her inner demons and the outer world of people. Amba is a reluctant hero who yearns to be an average person but is forced to reveal her amazing abilities in a conflict that pushes her to the limit of what it is to be human. It strongly resembles a fairy tale with a cruel villain lusting after the gold that is hidden beneath a mountain where the Habishis, a tribal group, live and a heroine with magical abilities. However, instead of a prince charming and a damsel in distress, this story features a cruel villain and a very real world of violence and absurdities.Being a fan of thrillers and horror literature, I thoroughly liked reading this book. I was very drawn to the book's supernaturalism.
Profile Image for Sagar Thakare.
155 reviews3 followers
November 20, 2022
This is a horror Thriller book of female protagonist Amba
The first madness was that she was born. That the gods stuffed into a bag of tiny human skin The second madness was,
the Gods stuffed Her inside—with Us. “Let her die. Patala has her eye on her,” warned the Village-Shaman.
Twenty years on, Amba is too embroiled in her human wars to bother about the voices inside her.
Gun-toting psychopath Colonel Rosie Madbull is inflicting dreadful vengeance on her people to get his hands on the gold which is discovered under their soil.
But he and his army of bloodthirsty criminals have to confront the battle-hardened Amba.
Character of Colonel is well composed and defined in the story.
The epic battle between good vs evil, the plot is described well sometimes it is a bit confusing the characters and the ongoing story,
The story is filled with war,action,emotions,horror for the fiction lovers.
Profile Image for Richa !.
175 reviews4 followers
November 21, 2022
"Because witches are always woman!"

Book ~ Contamination
Author ~ Richa Lakhera
Genre ~ Thriller

A thrilling novel that actually thrills me down is what I need!
And this book is a roller-coaster thriller. It talks about war, supernatural powers, horror, witch, violence, mystery, and what not!

The protagonist, Amba, is believed to be born as a witch. People used to be terrified of her. Amba craved to be treated like an ordinary human. And this story is about her fight to become an ordinary human being. Not only this, there's lot more to alarm the readers. Grab the book and find out!

Initial chapters might be confusing, but as you read further, the characters develop and story becomes gripy. It's creepy, terrific, demonic, mysterious, and captivating.

Beginners may find the language a bit twisted. Do give some time to grasp and it's going to be an awesome read. Recommended 💯
Profile Image for Akshay Patil.
288 reviews3 followers
February 26, 2023
The book is a fantasy novel, with a strong emphasis on mythology and the supernatural. The main character, Amba, is introduced as a person with a difficult upbringing, having been born under unusual circumstances and faced with various challenges throughout her life.

The book has a number of other characters who play significant roles in the story, including a gun-toting psychopath named Colonel Rosie Madbull and a number of mythological creatures. There are also references to prophecies, battles between good and evil, and the unleashing of terrifying furies.

Overall, the book is an action-packed adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and mythology. The inclusion of real-world issues, such as the discovery of gold and the resulting conflicts, adds an interesting layer of complexity to the story. The story leaves many questions unanswered, which could entice readers to pick up the book and discover the answers for themselves
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