The Game of Death by Himanshu Rai is a psychological thriller that grips the reader from the very first page. The novel introduces us to Aliza, a seemingly ordinary schoolgirl whose life takes a dark turn when she receives a mysterious diary. The diary, linked to a missing classmate, Amrit, draws her into a sinister game where reading is the only way to save him. With each page, she uncovers chilling secrets, eerie messages, and life-threatening tasks that make it impossible to escape. The narrative is intense, blending suspense, horror, and psychological manipulation. The use of expectation as a central theme adds depth to the plot Amrit’s struggles with parental pressures, societal norms, and personal identity resonate deeply. The author crafts an unsettling atmosphere, where every character is suspect, and even Aliza’s own family seems to be hiding secrets. Despite its engaging premise, a few pages seem to be missing, making some transitions abrupt. This, however, adds t...
The Village Views by S.C. Farrow , offers readers a delightful exploration of life within an imagined village through the lens of its many residents. This compilation features stories from a wide range of authors, each focusing on different inhabitants of the same village, with each story taking place in a different apartment. The result is a patchwork of perspectives, building a richly textured and layered portrait of the community. The strength of this anthology lies in its diversity of voices and styles. Each author brings their unique approach, which lends a dynamic energy to the collection. Some stories delve deep into the human condition, revealing personal struggles, isolation, and interpersonal dynamics, while others employ humor or surrealism to capture their particular slice of village life. The themes of community, loneliness, and connection recur, giving the book a sense of cohesion despite the variety of tones and approaches. The format of the book, with each c...