{"id":1558,"date":"2025-04-08T09:58:51","date_gmt":"2025-04-08T09:58:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homindia.in\/?p=1558"},"modified":"2025-04-08T09:58:51","modified_gmt":"2025-04-08T09:58:51","slug":"book-review-the-secret-wishlist-by-preeti-shenoy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/book-review-the-secret-wishlist-by-preeti-shenoy\/","title":{"rendered":"BOOK REVIEW : THE SECRET WISHLIST BY PREETI SHENOY"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b><strong><em>Introduction<\/em><\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>ISBN: 978-93-82618-18-8<\/li>\n<li>Genre : Fiction<\/li>\n<li>Price: Rs. 175\/-<\/li>\n<li>Pages: 256<\/li>\n<li>Publishers: Westland Ltd<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Many times in life you are running towards a goal, only to realize midway that it was a mirage. And when observed closely you will see that you don\u2019t even have a handful of memories to cherish, rather you are only left with a fistful of sand and loads of unanswered questions in the name of it. A Secret Wishlist is a book which not only makes you question many things but also makes you realise the importance of simple things like trust and love.\u00a0<b><strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/b><br \/>\n<b><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><strong><em>About the author<\/em><\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Preeti Shenoy is one author whose every book has been reviewed on my blog till now and yes she needs no introduction. You can read my previous reviews\u00a0here\u00a0where I talk about her, my inspiration, the person who made me realise that I can write and for that I am forever indebted to her!<\/p>\n<p><b><strong><em>Me thinks<\/em><\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n<p>In life there are times when everything you wish comes true as He seems to be in a mood to say AMEN to everything. This book is about those hidden desires, buried deep down away from the prying eyes and such moments when God simply nods and says AMEN.<\/p>\n<p>The Secret Wishlist by Preeti Shenoy is the story of Diksha \u2013 a daughter, a sister, a wife, a daughter-in-law, a mother \u2013 all this and much more but herself. She has gotten so used to this daily rut that she has forgotten to listen what her heart wants. This book is a story about her journey of finding her own self. An unexpected incident makes her realise the importance of living life the way she wants to and be happy. So is born a wishlist as she pushes her heart to tell her every wish .A chanced meeting with an old friend, makes her nostalgic. One thing leads to another and before she can realise she is striking out things on her wishlist at an eerie speed.<\/p>\n<p>Preeti is known for her simple and easy-to-connect characters which make you feel they are so existent. They could be you, me or anyone of us for that matter. The sheer beauty of this story is its honesty. You can feel every wish, every desire, every pain and every emotion very eloquently as Preeti has managed to weave a wonderful tale spun around an array of emotions like love and friendship.<\/p>\n<p>I was able to connect to the young Diksha more and I strongly dislike this practice in Indian societies where every small act is construed to be sin and the person punished even without being given a chance to defend. Teenage is a very delicate age for anyone to be in and a person tends to sway a lot during this time if not guided properly. I wish parents read this book and understood the real emotions hidden behind a confused teenager rather than prosecuting them like this.<\/p>\n<p>This book makes a light read and is simply un-put-down-able mainly because of the emotions involved. I had to keep it down in between for a while and though I was doing something my mind was constantly with Diksha, trying to think what would have happened with her now. I thoroughly enjoyed this roller coaster ride with Diksha as she took me through some of the happy and sad moments of her life. I have always admired the way Preeti deals with some very serious social issues. In this book also, she has managed to create a wonderful impact with the way she has presented an unhappy marriage and a divorce. I would recommend this to all women, especially because it tells you a very important secret to living &#8211; Listen to your heart! And who knows it might push you to write your own secret wish list making you embark on your own journey of self discovery!<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"356\"><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"25\">&#8220;The Secret Wishlist&#8221;<\/strong> by <strong data-start=\"29\" data-end=\"46\">Preeti Shenoy<\/strong> is a contemporary fiction novel that delves into themes of <strong data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"124\">self-discovery<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"126\" data-end=\"145\">personal growth<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"151\" data-end=\"168\">relationships<\/strong>. As with many of Shenoy&#8217;s works, the book combines emotional depth with engaging storytelling, exploring how people can find happiness and fulfillment in life, even when it seems elusive.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"358\" data-end=\"383\"><strong data-start=\"362\" data-end=\"383\">About the Author:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"1017\"><strong data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"401\">Preeti Shenoy<\/strong> is a bestselling Indian author known for her insightful, relatable, and emotionally charged novels. Her works often explore themes of <strong data-start=\"536\" data-end=\"544\">love<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"546\" data-end=\"563\">relationships<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"565\" data-end=\"584\">personal growth<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"590\" data-end=\"607\">mental health<\/strong>, with a focus on <strong data-start=\"625\" data-end=\"648\">real-life struggles<\/strong> and the <strong data-start=\"657\" data-end=\"691\">complexities of human emotions<\/strong>. Some of her other notable books include <strong data-start=\"733\" data-end=\"763\">&#8220;Life Is What You Make It&#8221;<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"794\">&#8220;The One You Cannot Have&#8221;<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"800\" data-end=\"829\">&#8220;A Hundred Little Flames&#8221;<\/strong>. Shenoy\u2019s writing style is approachable, making her books accessible to a wide audience, especially those who enjoy reading about <strong data-start=\"960\" data-end=\"987\">personal transformation<\/strong> and the <strong data-start=\"996\" data-end=\"1016\">human experience<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1048\"><strong data-start=\"1023\" data-end=\"1048\">Overview of the Book:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1049\" data-end=\"1515\"><strong data-start=\"1049\" data-end=\"1074\">&#8220;The Secret Wishlist&#8221;<\/strong> tells the story of <strong data-start=\"1094\" data-end=\"1102\">Tara<\/strong>, a young woman who appears to have a perfect life on the surface. She has a successful career, a comfortable home, and a loving fianc\u00e9. However, beneath her polished exterior, Tara feels unfulfilled and disconnected from her true desires. She has a <strong data-start=\"1352\" data-end=\"1371\">secret wishlist<\/strong>\u2014a list of dreams and goals she has long kept hidden from the world, primarily because they don\u2019t fit into the expectations others have for her.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1517\" data-end=\"1997\">The story picks up when Tara\u2019s life takes an unexpected turn, and she is forced to confront her inner desires, which have been buried under the pressures of <strong data-start=\"1674\" data-end=\"1692\">societal norms<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1717\">family expectations<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"1723\" data-end=\"1748\">personal insecurities<\/strong>. As she begins to explore the <strong data-start=\"1779\" data-end=\"1805\">things she truly wants<\/strong>, Tara embarks on a journey of <strong data-start=\"1836\" data-end=\"1856\">self-realization<\/strong>. Along the way, she faces challenges that force her to make difficult decisions, reconsider her life choices, and <strong data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"1996\">reclaim her happiness<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1999\" data-end=\"2330\"><strong data-start=\"1999\" data-end=\"2024\">&#8220;The Secret Wishlist&#8221;<\/strong> explores themes such as <strong data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2074\">following one&#8217;s heart<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"2076\" data-end=\"2102\">finding true happiness<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"2108\" data-end=\"2144\">making peace with past decisions<\/strong>. The novel encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and ask themselves whether they are truly pursuing what makes them happy or simply living according to external expectations.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"2332\" data-end=\"2351\"><strong data-start=\"2336\" data-end=\"2351\">Key Themes:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ol data-start=\"2353\" data-end=\"3982\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2353\" data-end=\"2715\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2356\" data-end=\"2395\"><strong data-start=\"2356\" data-end=\"2395\">Self-Discovery and Personal Growth:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2399\" data-end=\"2715\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2399\" data-end=\"2715\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2401\" data-end=\"2715\">The central theme of the book is <strong data-start=\"2434\" data-end=\"2452\">self-discovery<\/strong>. Tara\u2019s journey is about realizing who she truly is, what she wants, and how to pursue her dreams without being held back by <strong data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2600\">societal pressures<\/strong> or <strong data-start=\"2604\" data-end=\"2624\">fear of judgment<\/strong>. The book emphasizes the importance of knowing yourself and listening to your inner voice.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2717\" data-end=\"3015\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2720\" data-end=\"2746\"><strong data-start=\"2720\" data-end=\"2746\">Following Your Dreams:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2750\" data-end=\"3015\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2750\" data-end=\"3015\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2752\" data-end=\"3015\"><strong data-start=\"2752\" data-end=\"2778\">Tara&#8217;s secret wishlist<\/strong> represents the dreams and desires that she has long suppressed. The novel highlights the importance of <strong data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"2908\">pursuing your passions<\/strong> and taking the necessary steps to achieve your goals, even if they don&#8217;t align with societal expectations.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3017\" data-end=\"3341\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3020\" data-end=\"3055\"><strong data-start=\"3020\" data-end=\"3055\">Relationships and Expectations:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3059\" data-end=\"3341\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3059\" data-end=\"3341\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3061\" data-end=\"3341\">The novel delves into the complexities of <strong data-start=\"3103\" data-end=\"3120\">relationships<\/strong>\u2014whether romantic, familial, or social\u2014and the impact that expectations can have on personal happiness. Tara&#8217;s relationships, particularly with her fianc\u00e9, are tested as she begins to prioritize her own needs and desires.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3343\" data-end=\"3658\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3346\" data-end=\"3367\"><strong data-start=\"3346\" data-end=\"3367\">Fear and Courage:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3371\" data-end=\"3658\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3371\" data-end=\"3658\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3373\" data-end=\"3658\"><strong data-start=\"3373\" data-end=\"3381\">Fear<\/strong> of failure, judgment, and disappointing loved ones plays a significant role in Tara\u2019s initial hesitation to pursue her true desires. As she learns to embrace her own dreams, the book emphasizes the importance of <strong data-start=\"3594\" data-end=\"3605\">courage<\/strong> and taking risks in order to live a fulfilling life.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3660\" data-end=\"3982\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3663\" data-end=\"3692\"><strong data-start=\"3663\" data-end=\"3692\">The Search for Happiness:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3696\" data-end=\"3982\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3696\" data-end=\"3982\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3698\" data-end=\"3982\">Ultimately, the novel is about the search for <strong data-start=\"3744\" data-end=\"3762\">true happiness<\/strong>. It suggests that happiness comes from within and can only be attained by being <strong data-start=\"3843\" data-end=\"3862\">true to oneself<\/strong>, making choices that align with one&#8217;s deepest desires, and accepting oneself with all of one\u2019s flaws and imperfections.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"3984\" data-end=\"4006\"><strong data-start=\"3988\" data-end=\"4006\">Writing Style:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4007\" data-end=\"4494\">Preeti Shenoy\u2019s writing is <strong data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4044\">simple<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"4046\" data-end=\"4058\">engaging<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"4064\" data-end=\"4088\">emotionally resonant<\/strong>. She writes in a way that makes complex emotional experiences accessible to readers. The book\u2019s pacing is <strong data-start=\"4195\" data-end=\"4205\">steady<\/strong>, allowing ample space for character development and personal reflection. Shenoy\u2019s ability to depict the <strong data-start=\"4310\" data-end=\"4338\">nuances of relationships<\/strong> and the internal struggles of her characters makes the book a <strong data-start=\"4401\" data-end=\"4419\">relatable read<\/strong> for anyone dealing with the challenges of modern life and personal growth.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4496\" data-end=\"4796\">The author uses a <strong data-start=\"4514\" data-end=\"4540\">first-person narrative<\/strong>, which allows readers to connect deeply with <strong data-start=\"4586\" data-end=\"4605\">Tara\u2019s emotions<\/strong> and her thought process as she works through her internal conflicts. Shenoy\u2019s writing is also peppered with <strong data-start=\"4714\" data-end=\"4742\">moments of introspection<\/strong> that encourage readers to reflect on their own lives.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"4798\" data-end=\"4816\"><strong data-start=\"4802\" data-end=\"4816\">Reception:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4817\" data-end=\"5215\"><strong data-start=\"4817\" data-end=\"4842\">&#8220;The Secret Wishlist&#8221;<\/strong> has been well-received by readers who appreciate contemporary fiction with emotional depth and relatability. The book resonates with readers who are familiar with the challenges of balancing <strong data-start=\"5034\" data-end=\"5046\">ambition<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"5048\" data-end=\"5065\">relationships<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"5071\" data-end=\"5093\">personal happiness<\/strong>. Many readers have praised the novel for its <strong data-start=\"5139\" data-end=\"5160\">inspiring message<\/strong> about following one\u2019s dreams and <strong data-start=\"5194\" data-end=\"5214\">embracing change<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5217\" data-end=\"5584\">Critics have also appreciated Shenoy\u2019s ability to create <strong data-start=\"5274\" data-end=\"5301\">well-rounded characters<\/strong> and tackle important life issues, such as <strong data-start=\"5344\" data-end=\"5358\">self-worth<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"5360\" data-end=\"5385\">relationship dynamics<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"5391\" data-end=\"5415\">personal fulfillment<\/strong>. While some readers have pointed out that the plot may feel predictable, the book&#8217;s charm lies in its <strong data-start=\"5518\" data-end=\"5538\">uplifting themes<\/strong> and its focus on <strong data-start=\"5556\" data-end=\"5583\">personal transformation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"5586\" data-end=\"5605\"><strong data-start=\"5590\" data-end=\"5605\">Conclusion:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5606\" data-end=\"5984\"><strong data-start=\"5606\" data-end=\"5631\">&#8220;The Secret Wishlist&#8221;<\/strong> by <strong data-start=\"5635\" data-end=\"5652\">Preeti Shenoy<\/strong> is an inspiring and heartwarming novel that explores the journey of self-discovery, the importance of pursuing your dreams, and the power of embracing personal change. Through the story of Tara, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and question whether they are truly living in alignment with their deepest desires.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5986\" data-end=\"6340\">If you enjoy contemporary fiction with <strong data-start=\"6025\" data-end=\"6044\">emotional depth<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"6046\" data-end=\"6070\">relatable characters<\/strong>, and a <strong data-start=\"6078\" data-end=\"6098\">positive message<\/strong> about following your passions, this book will be an enjoyable and motivating read. Tara\u2019s journey of <strong data-start=\"6200\" data-end=\"6210\">growth<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"6212\" data-end=\"6227\">empowerment<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"6233\" data-end=\"6253\">self-fulfillment<\/strong> will resonate with anyone seeking to create a life that reflects their authentic self.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction ISBN: 978-93-82618-18-8 Genre : Fiction Price: Rs. 175\/- Pages: 256 Publishers: Westland Ltd Many times in life you are running towards a goal, only to realize midway that it was a mirage. And when observed closely you will see that you don\u2019t even have a handful of memories to cherish, rather you are only [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":100,"featured_media":1724,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[245],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1558","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-the-secret-wishlist-by-preeti-shenoy"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1558","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/100"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1558"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1558\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1724"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1558"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1558"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.reilsolar.com\/shopping\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1558"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}