I’m back with my annual recap of the publishing year at Readomania, and 2024 holds a special place in our journey—Readomania completed 10 years! Ten years! What began as a vision to offer readers quality literature and provide a platform for talented writers to showcase their work, has grown into something truly fulfilling. I’m incredibly proud of our diverse range of books, with something for everyone, no matter what their age or interests. Developing and editing each of these titles has been a transformative experience for me, enriching my knowledge and perspectives, and making me not just a better editor, but a better person.
As always, we bring to you a list of all books that we published this year.
Our non-fiction titles in 2024 offered a delightful mix of genres, catering to a wide range of reader interests.
Ramendra Kumar’s joie de vivre never ceases to amaze me. Author of over 50 books, his incredibly brave fight against cancer has become a source of inspiration to many. He wrote Coping With Cancer—a research-based book which provides practical insights to manage the Big ‘C’. Each concept carries an introductory note, supplemented by real-life case studies, almost all of which are based on Indian examples. This is a must-have handbook which explores different mechanisms, beyond medical paradigms, to battle the 'emperor of all maladies'.
Ramendra says, “So far four books of mine have been published by Readomania. My experience has been truly awesome. Dipankar has his pulse on the market and has used his experience and instinct to great effect. As a result, three of my books topped the Amazon charts in their categories.
A big shoutout to my editor Indrani’s deft editorial skills. Her advice as to the right tone and tenor of my manuscripts too has always been spot on. Her most outstanding quality is that for her a writer is not a product he/she is a person whose sensibilities need to be respected. In every interaction with her I found her empathy come shining through.”
As a young girl, Ankita Srivastava dreamt of becoming a soldier and serving the nation. This was an impossible dream at a time when the Army was a male bastion. But with her grit and determination, Ankita became an officer of the Indian Army. Hers is a story of blood, sweat, courage, and perseverance, narrated in her inimitable humorous style. No Woman’s Land is an inspirational and entertaining memoir of a lady soldier who etched her footprints in the sands of time.
Ankita says, “My journey with Readomania started with trust and faith in good, easy publishing and moved ahead with complete handholding of my manuscript by the editing team. Ensuring visibility of my book towards larger readership and then transcending into a gradual evolution of the same as being guided to knock doors of prominent literary awards platforms by the whole team made it an enjoyable experience to me as an author.”
Hazaroñ ḳhwahisheñ aisi ki har ḳhwahish pe dam nikle
Bahut nikle mere arman lekin phir bhi kam nikle
Have you always wanted to experience Ghalib’s genius but got wary of the complex Urdu? Faiyaz Ahmed’s Ghalib —The Life, Times and Poetry of Mirza Ghalib, is the first attempt to include both Ghalib’s life and nearly two-third of his Urdu poetry, in translation, in a single volume. Ahmed’s prose is impeccable, the translation intelligible and lucid and the portrayal of Ghalib has been done with great sensitivity and charm. This book is a keeper!
How many Hindu scriptures are there? Which is the oldest? How are they organised? So many of us keep wondering about these questions. A Comprehensive Guide to Indian Scriptures offers an accessible and comprehensive overview of the vast world of Hindu sacred texts. From the ancient Vedas and Upanishads to the Puranas, epics, and Smriti literature, this guide navigates the development of Hinduism’s scriptural heritage. Written by seasoned mythology writer, Sunita Pant Bansal, this book presents the scriptures as they are, without commentary or interpretation, allowing readers to form their own understanding.
Sunita says, “I’m incredibly grateful for the wonderful experience I have had with Readomania. Their editorial team’s professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care for my work were evident at every step. From the editing stages to the final design, they made the entire process seamless, swift, and enjoyable. And both my books came out in a record time of less than 6 weeks—what more can an author ask for!”
Sumita Banerjea’s Script Your Life Your Way offers practical guidance for becoming the best version of yourself, even through life's challenges. Drawing on personal anecdotes, Banerjea addresses emotions and issues like regret, fear, broken relationships, and lack of purpose. With simple insights and reflective questions at the end of each chapter, this book helps you build a balanced and healthy attitude towards life. A valuable resource for personal growth, it’s also a thoughtful gift for anyone seeking guidance and self-improvement.
This year, we published four poetry books that explore a rich tapestry of themes—from the depths of personal reflection to the wonders of devotion, and the complexities of human connection and the anatomy of loss—each offering a unique and evocative journey for readers.
‘Sandhya has churned pain into poetry of wisdom,’ says Adil Hussein, acclaimed film and TV actor. Untamed by talented actress Sandhya Mridul captures the raw emotions of desire, distance, and the deep ache of unfulfilled connections. From the euphoria of first love to the quiet yearning of separation, these verses weave together universal themes of passion, vulnerability, and the beauty of human connection. Sandhya invites us to lose ourselves in the tender world of emotion and reflection.
Justaju by Supriya Newar is a collection of poetry in Hindi and Urdu that is sprinkled with gentle ruminations and reflections, peppered with reminiscences and romance and served to you like an intimate, fireside conversation. The poems are written in Devanagri and have been transcribed in English as well for the ease of modern readers.
‘It takes a village to raise a child.
It takes a cosmos to write a poem.’
This indeed is the key to Ranajit Das’s vast poetic world of thought and feeling, of mystery and meaning, and of abundant love. Ranajit’s poetry depicts the inner quest of a poet in search of an unknown beauty. Aliens in the Metro is a collection thoughtfully selected and translated by the poet himself from his Bengali masterpieces.
Deeply steeped in the Mahabharata, its history and mythology, Listen Radhika by eminent Hindi poet and author Madhav Kaushik, encapsulates the great social vision and original thought of Shri Krishna in its varied nuances. This long poem, a conversation between the eternal lovers Lord Krishna and Radha, transcends the traditional perspective and focuses upon modern-day problems and concerns like feminism, women’s issues, the political discourse etc.
Our fiction titles were each better than the other—entertaining, thought-provoking and page turners all.
Bestselling author and new age Indian classicist, Anuja Chandramouli is widely regarded as one of the finest writers in mythology, historical fiction and fantasy. She wrote Girl Talk, her wickedest yarn yet. And wittiest. This is a compelling story narrated by five strong-willed and wild women who are all connected to each other through blood ties or friendship and whose lives have been affected by men who used them or were used by them.
Talking about her experience with Readomania, Anuja says, “Working with the Readomania team has been an unadulterated pleasure. It is a lovely feeling when your manuscript is cherished and brought out into the world with tenderness and care. And I am grateful to the editorial team for making the birthing experience of my book pain-free and special!”
Musrefa Hossain’s A Tale of Two Oddities—A Camaraderie of Chaos is the story of Bindya, a mischievous nonagenarian, who defies rules and norms, constantly stirring up chaos in her family. Her great-granddaughter, quiet and composed, is her calm counterpart, learning valuable life lessons from Bindya’s fiery ways. This is a tale of two unlikely companions—an old crone and a little girl—bound by spirit, yet worlds apart in nature.
Award-winning author Shalini Mullick penned The Way Home, a tale of fighting inner demons; bonding with friends and self-discovery. Mullick has etched out three perfectly relatable characters who are grappling with past demons, grief, prejudices and familial expectations. They are professionals with real problems that readers can easily relate to. Mullick’s forte is sensitive portrayal of human relationships and this book is no different.
Shalini says, "Indrani is a gentle magician who works wonders with our manuscripts. She is what every editor should be- both a mirror and a lighthouse for the author. Working with the editorial team at Readomania is an enriching experience. They are prompt and professional. Publishing with Readomania gives authors a good platform for visibility. It has been a smooth collaborative process at every step."
Readomania is proud to partner with the JK Paper-Times of India Auther Award in the Best Manuscript category. This year, I had the pleasure of being involved in the selection process, reviewing submissions and choosing the winner. We are thrilled to publish Kausalya—Queen of Hearts by talented teen author, Vibha Sangita Krishnakumar, who was adjudged the winner this year. While history remembers Kausalya as a silent, maternal figure, this novel reveals her true essence—an extraordinary Warrior Queen, embodying truth, wisdom, love, sorrow, sacrifice, and devotion. What price did she pay for her greatness? What secrets lay hidden within her? Read the book and find out!
Another competition that produced two brilliant books this year was the Readomania x Penmancy Pitchfest 2024. The winners Khushboo Shah and Monica Singh are two young and super talented authors who have wowed the readers with their creativity and innovativeness.
Is redemption possible behind bars? Set against the backdrop of contemporary India, Pronounced Guilty by Monica Singh, is a thought-provoking tale that delves deep into the complexities of the human psyche, exploring themes of second chances and the pursuit of justice. In a world where moral boundaries blur and the line between right and wrong is often obscured, Pronounced Guilty prompts readers to question their perceptions of criminals and the Indian criminal justice system. This book is a reflection of the world we live in, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Monica says, "My book couldn’t have found a more perfect home than Readomania Publishers. They’ve been incredibly supportive of Pronounced Guilty and its core message, even though it tackles the sensitive and often overlooked topic of redemption for criminals. The publication journey has been smooth and exciting, from pitching the idea to them, through editing, and cover design. They truly understood the heart of my story and made sure it stayed true to its vision throughout the process. I believe Readomania is one of the very few publishers who are fearlessly curating a catalogue of books that dive into unexplored themes, and creating a space for voices that need to be heard. It’s been an amazing experience!"
‘Easy, enjoyable and disquieting at the same time.’ This is how Politician, Animal rights activist, Environmentalist Maneka Gandhi describes Khushboo Shah’s The Mildly Chaotic World of Chi Kenny. This captivating dystopian satire entertains, enlightens, and inspires, inviting readers to challenge the conventional notions of humanity, morality, conscience and compassion in an animal world that mirrors our own. This scathingly satirical tale, filled with whimsical puns, will jolt you out of your indifference!
Can love mend what destiny has broken, or will fate do them part? Till Fate Do Us Part by Smita Das Jain is a journey that navigates the delicate dance between love and adversity, choices and consequences. A compelling and heart-touching story that many readers will identify with. The story highlights the struggles of a working mother, especially that of a special-needs child. It also brings into focus the challenges faced by doctors while treating patients with special needs.
Smita says, "Publishing with Readomania has been an incredibly enriching experience. Indrani's expertise, dedication, and attention to detail have not only elevated my books but also made the journey enjoyable and seamless. From A Price to Love to Till Fate Do Us Part, I am grateful for Readomania's unwavering support in bringing my stories to life."
Master horror writer, Vignesh Sivasankar conjures nightmares and weaves them into chilling tales. In The Devil’s Autopsy, he narrates five unsolved murder mysteries handpicked from the villages of Assam to the sophisticated skyscrapers of Mumbai that have a torrent of supernatural suspense hidden under the sheets. The Devil's Autopsy is a riveting journey into the heart of darkness. Prepare to be spellbound—one story at a time. ‘The storytelling is engaging which keeps one on the edge,’ says The Times of India about this book.
Another edge-of-the-seat thriller is The Revenge of the Dark Spirits by Namratha Raj. What happens when humans foolishly meddle with the dark world of black magic? What happens when the dark spirits are denied what they are promised? A pacy and riveting thriller based at a resort in a coffee plantation of Coorg, Karnataka, this story depicts the man-animal conflict in a sensational way. The author has woven in elements of tantra and the dark practices to make this story a superb thriller.
After the entertaining roller-coaster ride with Giddha on My Gulmohur and Garnets Under My Gulmohur, humourista Chetna Keer’s quirky protagonist Lollita— the fab-fortyish book influencer, khadi saree-a-holic, climate warrior— is back in another suspense saga in Geisha in the Gota Patti. A lot can happen over tea…even murder! Tea is the major theme in this book and the author has very cleverly woven folk nuggets about tea and tea culture from all over India and the world in this tale.
In the serene hill station of Dalhousie, a honeymooning couple stumbles upon a mud-caked corpse, plunging Inspector Kanet into a high-stakes investigation. As he faces interference from the CID from Delhi, a web of deception begins to unravel. With every suspect hiding secrets, Kanet must navigate a maze of lies to prevent another murder. Full of intrigue, betrayal, and Aneeta Sharma’s The Dalhousie Murders is a relentless thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Ushasi Sen Basu’s The Mo Mysteries introduces us to Mohini Choudhary, Mo to her friends and family, who is an amateur sleuth: a problem-solver of growing repute. Mo is deadpan, no-nonsense, undramatic and dogged. She moonlights as a private detective along with a string of other jobs, but once she has got the scent, nothing can distract her until she’s hunted her quarry down. In this collection of stories set in different locations in India, Mo sets out to untangle mysteries that include an attempted murder of a morning jogger, a stolen family heirloom, a spouse who goes missing during the pandemic and the curious case of a watched woman. A must read!
Ushasi says, "Readomania is an author's dream. They are a publishing house who treat authors with respect; and give you the support you need to bring out your work, and are patient and understanding even during the editorial process. I am very grateful that they let authors be authors, allowing us the freedom to give them our best."
In The Web of Shadows by ace storyteller Deepti Menon, private investigator Akshata is drawn into a dangerous mystery following the sudden death of a young girl at a Mumbai dance bar. As she uncovers dark secrets within the bar’s powerful Madam and her enforcer Ahmad, Akshata’s investigation leads her to a Kerala village ruled by a powerful Namboodrippad family of Tantrics. Amidst a web of intrigue and danger, Akshata must navigate a sinister world where both the mighty and the vulnerable are at risk. This fast-paced thriller keeps readers on the edge of their seat.
Hate, jealousy, fear, adultery, drug racket, prostitution...MURDER! Swarnendu Biswas’s Secrets, Scandals & Lies delves into the dark lives of seemingly ordinary residents in a middle-class housing society in East Delhi. From murder and adultery to fear and deception, these ten interconnected stories span five decades, revealing the hidden truths behind each character’s mask. A gripping exploration of human nature, this book will leave you questioning when the mask becomes the true face.
Shubira Prasad’s Girl of Destiny follows Shama, a beautiful girl orphaned at a young age, as she navigates a life full of love, loss, and tough choices. Raised by her stepmother in a blended family, Shama grows up headstrong and independent, but love remains elusive. From a taboo relationship to a series of marriages and heartbreaks, her life is a roller coaster of destiny, fate, and the consequences of her choices. Set over four decades, this is a compelling tale of resilience and the twists of fate.
Shubira says, "Collaborating with Readomania has been a harmonious dance of creativity and expertise. I believe that together we can craft a masterpiece that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impact."
Mamathi Chari in her avatar as Maya Spark wrote Fury of the Forgotten, the first book in the ExtraOrdinaries series. In a world shaped by Chaos, the birth of powerful beings known as ExtraOrdinaries (EOs) leads to a battle for dominance. When Chaos abandons his pregnant love, their son grows into a vengeful force, threatening the world. Now, a group of unskilled teens—vampires, pixettes, and a fairy godmother-in-training—must confront the Chaos Godling and stop the destruction. With quirky allies and strange creatures, this thrilling tale of power, destiny, and battle against dark forces promises a wild, supernatural ride.
Mamathi says, "When publisher, editor and author are on the same page literally and literarily, then each creation becomes a force to reckon with. Readomania Publishing puts forth the perfect amount of give and resistance, while prioritising the humanity of the author. The freedom to create is nourished by the environment of expertise, ethics, passion and steadfast support that make up the Readomania ethos. Thank you, for everything, dear Dipankar and Indrani."
Let’s now talk about the anthologies that we published this year.
Bebey's Day Out & Other Stories by CV Lakshmi is a heartwarming collection of stories that delves into a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences, exploring the connections between diverse characters across different places and times. From the bustling tech hubs of modern-day India to the cotton fields of seventeenth-century Deccan, the book examines themes of struggle, loneliness, love, and the complexities of relationships. It raises thought-provoking questions about guilt, empowerment, and the supernatural, offering a glimpse into both the past and the future. With a variety of voices and perspectives, these tales invite readers to explore the mysterious intersections of life and the human spirit.
Wind Chimes by the Sea—Stories Blown Ashore offers a captivating collection of tales from the high seas, spanning eras from tall ships to modern-day battles. Featuring stories of adventure, love, war, and survival—including the 1971 Indo-Pak war and battling Covid at sea—veteran sea captain Beetashok Chatterjee brings the seafarer's world to life. Get ready to embark on a thrilling voyage through 11 unforgettable stories.
Award-winning author and master storyteller Sutapa Basu’s The Anatomy of Affection is a collection of ten stories exploring the depth of affection in its many forms. From a grieving husband to a misunderstood gay man, a soldier to a highbrow snob, each protagonist’s response to life’s twists is shaped by profound affection. This anthology delves into the core of human emotions, offering a poignant look at how affection transcends age, gender, and social standing to touch the heart.
After the successful The Blogchatter Book of Thrillers in 2023, this year Team Blogchatter x Readomania came up with another wonderful anthology, The Blogchatter Book of Love. This book explores the spectrum of love in 18 captivating stories that transcend borders, societal norms, and expectations. From a woman passing down her legacy to her granddaughter, to star-crossed lovers and a husband consumed by his wife's dreams, these tales celebrate love in its many forms—beyond age, gender, and distance. Journey through diverse worlds where love knows no limits, with stories from Blogchatter's talented community of writers.
Now, let's take a look at what we had in store for our young readers this year through Reado Junior, our children's imprint.
Storyteller and illustrator extraordinaire, Monika Bhatkhande came out with the second book in her Book Club mystery series, At the Quack of Dawn. This thrilling read for youngsters has a mystery which the readers can solve along with the Book Club sleuths. It has an activity sheet too!
Monika says, "Thank you, Dipankar and Indrani for everything you do. It's been such a pleasure working with you, here's to an amazing 2025!"
Have you explored The World of Tagore by Debapriya Ghosh? Debapriya took on the tough challenge to make Tagore attractive to today’s young readers and came up with this masterpiece. The World of Tagore is a must for today’s generation to understand the genius of the Bard. Step into the captivating world of Rabindranath Tagore, where each story is a vivid masterpiece. From the Bohemian boy to the loyal servant and the Kabuliwala's deep love, the Bard’s tales transcend time, breathing life into every character and setting. Explore Tagore’s timeless narratives and let his words touch your heart.
Debapriya says, “Team Readomania is so much more than a publishing house. It gives a much-needed platform to aspiring and published authors. Readomania stands for quality-based work where talent is the only criterion. Dipankar is the captain of the ship and his vision has catapulted so many of us into fame and success. Indrani is, of course, a guardian angel. As an editor, she has the Midas touch that can really give your book a whole new dimension. Readomania has become a friend, philosopher and guide for me and I feel blessed to be a part of this beautiful Reado family. The way in which Dipankar and Indrani forge a camaraderie among the authors is also commendable. I would also like to mention the brilliant artists on board, Sourish Mitra and Rupak Neogy. Readomania makes the best book covers and illustrations in the field of publishing.”
Thiruvalluvar’s Kural for Kids Book 1, translated and storified by Mamathi Chari, will make you realise how Thiru Valluvar’s kurals guide us even today. This book follows Gettikutti's joyful summer filled with fun, friends, and life lessons at their grandparents’ home. Through stories, riddles, and adventures, Gettikutti learns how the timeless wisdom of Thiru Valluvar's kurals applies to everyday life. From playing hard to protecting the earth, Gettikutti and their friends embody these teachings, showing how these ancient principles guide us all to live happily. Dive into their world and discover how you too live the kurals every day.
Om So Hum by Krupa Gedia (illustrated by Krupa and Anay Gedia) is a creative journey that explores why we think, feel, and experience life the way we do. This book blends insightful Vedic wisdom with engaging journaling activities, helping young readers connect with their mind, body, and soul. Discover the mysteries of the cosmos and learn how to live a more mindful and aware life—while becoming your own best friend.
More good news for our little book lovers! 2025 will see us launch Reado Kids, our new imprint for our youngest readers. These books will have evocative stories adorned with beautiful and colourful illustrations. Wait till you see the first Reado Kids book!
That’s a lot of books, isn’t it? Working with multiple authors across timelines and age brackets, dealing with crazy deadlines, we sailed through 10 amazing years! The immense love and respect my authors have given me have been my greatest takeaway.
I will complete a decade with Readomania in two months. Today, I proudly look back at the brand we’ve built and the dreams we’ve realized. No creative journey is without its challenges—egos, delays, differences, frustrations, and multiple revisions—but when we see the finished books, with their brilliant covers, quality storytelling, and top-notch production, all the effort feels worthwhile.
I wouldn’t have it any other way. We will continue telling great stories and spreading hope and happiness to all.
I, on behalf of Team Readomania, wish everyone a fruitful and healthy 2025. May good literature continue to make us introspect and make the world a better place!
Read something nice, write something beautiful...
INDRANI GANGULY
December 2024
NOTE: All our books are available on Amazon and www.readomania.com (https://www.readomania.com/shop). As a special anniversary offer, grab any Readomania title at 10% discount!
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