Indian author Kritika G Soin published her second book, a collection of ten short stories, traditionally published by Readomania. After the grand success of Mirror Soul, a novel based on twin flame concept, Vanilla Loves and Dusky Lives is the new offering. The book is a fascinating yet intriguing collection of ten short stories. As the title indicates the themes of the collection is bifurcated into two parts: unconventional and unethical. The standout voice of the book is nonconformist.

The USP of the book is that it has got unconventional love affairs and stories to discuss. Upfront love has various shades, and through its good part that is called Vanila Loves, and bad part Dusky Lives – the book dissects each story with a remarkable precision and utmost intimacy. Combining both parts the book is engrossingly inscribed on the themes of love, loss, betrayal, barriers, hope, relationships, redemption, abuse, friendship and family.

The stories are written from the characters’ emotional experiences, but also taking a dig at their unchecked and clandestine desires to be loved and to love. As the maxim goes – love is blind – some stories stand true to it with immaculate conviction. Plot and characterization in each story is notable, it strikes a chord with readers – either to be loathed or loved by them. The quality of narration is simple and superb, the speech between the plotlines is easy to comprehend. The cover of the book is subtle and calming and the title is suitable for the subject of the book.

Kritika has done striking work in maintaining a balance between both sides of love. From narrating a powerful and acceptable story in Vanila Loves, the way she transforms her narrative in Dusky Lives by vilifying antagonists is something that sets a standard for short story collections. The take on love is new and fresh. Readers will be thrown in a moral battle, which side to patronage, at what cost…can they themselves decide and choose a better life to live.

The overall pace of the stories is fast, yet light. Nearly all stories are impactful with their cast of characters and idiosyncrasies, funded by a decent narration, strong dialogues and remarkable characters.

Each story has a different plot and some of them, in absolute light, celebrate women’s strength. This book has the potential to bring an optimistic change in people’s lives. It will make up a perfect reading this summer, may pull anyone out of their general romance reading slump.