Sakshi's Bookshelf

  Book: Awakening the Mystic  Author: Rob Dorgan  Review: Rob Dorgan’s Awakening the Mystic is a radiant fusion of fiction, memoir, and spiritual teaching. The novel follows Ren, a seeker whose yearning for inner peace leads him from Catholic traditions to yoga, astrology, and ultimately a transcendent love with his partner, Sean. The story is both personal and universal—inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys of identity, loss, and healing. What stands out most is how Dorgan uses mystical experiences—dreams of saints, visions of silver threads, encounters with archetypal feminine energies—to illustrate the profound truth that love is the essence of human connection. The narrative gently educates without preaching, weaving in yoga philosophy, Patanjali’s Sutras, and the healing power of mudras and mantras. It reads like a soul-guide disguised as a novel. For anyone seeking a book that nourishes both heart and spirit, Awakening the Mystic offers not only an engag...

  Title: Buster the Bridger Mountain Bear Author: Wayne Edwards Review: Author Wayne Edwards brings warmth, humor, and heart to Buster the Bridger Mountain Bear, a story that captures the spirit of friendship and teamwork in the most delightful way. With Gabby Gopher’s bravery, Oliver Wendell Owl’s wisdom, and Buster’s lovable personality, Edwards introduces a cast of characters that feel alive and relatable. What stands out is how seamlessly the narrative blends entertainment with meaningful lessons—children are drawn into the adventure while also learning about compassion, problem-solving, and the power of working together. It’s a story that reads easily, yet lingers long after the last page is turned. The vibrant illustrations elevate the tale even further, giving life to Bridger Mountain and its endearing inhabitants. Every page feels like a window into a charming woodland world where kindness and collaboration always find a way forward. Wayne Edwards has created more than just...

 Title: A Stone’s Throw Author: Wayne Edwards Review: A Stone’s Throw by Wayne Edwards is a heartfelt novel that captures the pain of loss, the weight of family estrangement, and the healing power of unexpected bonds. At its heart is Maggie, a young girl thrust into uncertainty when her mother falls into a coma in 1969 San Francisco. Her world shifts dramatically when her grandfather, Ira Stone, steps into her life for the very first time. The move from city life to a remote Montana ranch is not just a change in scenery—it’s a complete transformation. Maggie, raised in the comfort of familiar routines, is suddenly faced with livestock, chores, and the sharp eye of a grandfather who demands hard work but gives little warmth. At first, their relationship is defined by distance and unspoken tension. Yet as Edwards unfolds their story, readers witness a subtle but powerful evolution. Maggie’s grit and determination not only earn Ira’s respect but also awaken something long-buried in hi...

Author: JOHN EDWARDS Review: This book is a mirror for anyone who has lived through broken relationships and the ache of silence. John Edwards doesn’t write from a distance—he writes from inside the pain, inside the questions, and inside the longing. That makes his words land differently, because they come from a place of lived truth. Unlike traditional books with chapters and polished structure, this one flows without breaks. At first, it feels unpolished, but then you realize that’s exactly the point. Estrangement doesn’t come with clean endings or easy transitions, so why should a book about it pretend otherwise? The style itself becomes part of the message. One of the most powerful things here is Edwards’s humility. He doesn’t just talk about what others did—he owns his part, his mistakes, and his regrets. That vulnerability makes the book feel like a gift rather than a complaint. By the end, what lingers is not just sadness, but also grace. Edwards reminds us that reconciliation, ...

  Title: The Stag Diary - Passage to Colonial Adelaide 1850 Author: Doug Limbrick Review: Imagine packing up your entire life into a few bags and stepping onto a wooden ship for a months-long journey across the world. That’s the reality captured in The Stag Diary. What grabbed me was how personal it feels. Through the diary of Francis C. Taylor, you don’t just read about emigrants—you feel their hunger, frustration, and flickers of hope. It’s like peeking into someone’s journal from 175 years ago. Doug Limbrick doesn’t stop at the diary. He adds context about emigration schemes, explains what Adelaide was like when the passengers arrived, and even includes art from one of the crew members. That combination makes the book feel alive and layered. I also liked how the writing never feels too heavy. Even if you’re not a history fan, the real human emotions make it easy to connect with. It’s not a dusty record; it’s a story of survival and new beginnings. For anyone curious about migrat...

  Title: Tales of Maxia Rose: A Journey through the Enchanted Cauldron Author: Arora Glean Review:  This book is a magical tapestry woven with wonder and courage. Maxia Rose's journey from the ordinary to the extraordinary is filled with secrets, surprises, and spells that leap off the page. It’s the kind of story that pulls you into its world and makes you forget your own. The world of Mascraine is described so vividly that I could see every magical corner. Whether it’s the enchanted creatures, the magic school in Krisintha, or the mysterious enchanted cauldron—each element felt purposeful and immersive. Maxia is a beautifully written character. She’s not fearless or perfect, but her bravery, questions, and quiet strength make her incredibly relatable. I loved seeing her grow through the pages, not just magically, but emotionally. By the time I turned the last page, I felt like I had journeyed with Maxia myself. This is a book that reminds you why you fell in love with read...