Review of The Knotty Decisions by Nisha Kalamane


Rating: 5/5

I picked up The Knotty Decisions thinking I’d skim a few ideas about relationships — what I got was a calm, steady guide that felt like a thoughtful conversation. The writing is gentle and direct; I kept feeling like the author was sitting across from me, asking the simple, honest questions I usually avoid.

What the book is about

At its core this book is about choices in love and life — the moments when you’re unsure whether to stay, move forward, or pause and really look inward. It doesn’t push a single “right” answer. Instead it helps you slow down, name what’s happening inside you, and make decisions that feel true to who you are.

The tone and style

The tone is friendly, not preachy. Sentences are plain and human — nothing fancy, no jargon. That makes the book easy to read when emotions are raw and thinking feels jumbled. It uses short reflections and relatable examples so you can actually sit with an idea instead of being overwhelmed by theory.

The exercises and checklists

What stood out most were the practical bits: the exercises, the checklists, the moments where the book asks you to write, tick, or reflect. These aren’t busywork — they’re small, clear tools that nudge you toward clarity. I found myself stopping and doing them, and each one helped me see patterns I hadn’t noticed before.

Why the advice felt grounded

The author writes from a background that blends mental-health awareness with relationship coaching, and that shows in the balance of empathy and structure throughout the book. The guidance feels rooted in real practice rather than just optimism, which made it trustworthy for me.

Presentation and format

The book is tidy and approachable; its length and layout make it easy to read chapter by chapter or to work through slowly with a notebook. The structure invites short sessions of reflection rather than a single long read, which I liked.

Who I think this book is for

If you’re standing at a relationship crossroads, thinking about commitment, or trying to understand why you repeat certain patterns, this book is a patient companion. It’s also useful to read with a partner when you want structure to start honest conversations.

Why this book matters for youngsters like me

This isn’t a book only for people already married or deeply involved in long-term relationships. For youngsters — students, early-career people, anyone just starting to date or figuring out who they are — it’s super useful. It teaches you how to recognise your needs, spot patterns early, and set boundaries before confusion becomes habit. The exercises help build habits of honest reflection that will save you a lot of time and emotional energy down the road. Reading it now felt like learning a life skill: not dramatic, but quietly powerful.

Final words

Reading The Knotty Decisions felt like someone handing me a small, practical map for a confusing stretch of road. It doesn’t tell you exactly which turn to take — it helps you see the signs more clearly. I kept coming back to its exercises and the calm honesty of the writing; for me, it was the kind of book that stayed with me after I closed it.

Review of The Game Changer Monk by Akshay Shroff


Rating: 4/5

The title itself pulled me in. A monk and a secret agent in one story isn’t something I see often, so I went into the book with a lot of curiosity. I expected action, but I also hoped it would give me something meaningful — and it actually did.

What the Story Gave Me

The book follows Lakshya Gaitonde, a former covert operative who has stepped away from violence and chosen the quiet life of a monk in the Himalayas. But that calm doesn’t last long. A new terror threat and a global situation linked to the post-pandemic world drag him back into the life he thought he had left behind. What I liked is how the book keeps things clear. Even though the plot moves across countries and touches on geopolitics, it stays very readable. You always know what Lakshya is trying to do, and why the stakes matter.

Lakshya as a Character

For me, Lakshya worked because he’s written like a real person, not some overpowered spy. He has calmness, but he also has doubt. His monk life shows his softer side, and his return to missions shows his sharp, focused side. That push and pull made him interesting to follow.

The Writing & Pacing

The writing is direct. It doesn’t try to be complicated. The chapters move quickly — a mix of calm thoughts, tense missions, and surprising moments. I never felt stuck; the story keeps flowing.
The author also gives short reflective pauses, especially related to Lakshya’s inner world, which balanced the action nicely.

What I Enjoyed Most

What stood out for me was the combination of two worlds — the spiritual quietness of a monk and the chaos of global conspiracies. That blend made the thriller feel fresh. The references to the pandemic and world tensions added a real, grounded feel, which I personally liked.

A Very Small Critique

If I have to mention one tiny thing, I wish a couple of scenes slowed down just a bit more. Not a serious issue — just a personal taste thing.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Game Changer Monk felt like a gripping yet meaningful read. It has action, mystery, global stakes, but also heart. Following a man who’s torn between peace and duty gave the book a deeper touch. For me, it was a smooth, engaging journey from a quiet monastery to a world full of secrets and danger — and I genuinely enjoyed being part of that ride.