Richa Sambhy Mediratta

[b:Gone in a Blink|48498352|Gone in a Blink (Take Three Mysteries, #2)|Richa Sambhy Mediratta|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1571383829l/48498352._SY75_.jpg|73809662] is the sequel to [b:Goan Chase: Take Three Mysteries|32593502|Goan Chase Take Three Mysteries|Richa Sambhy Mediratta|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1486644003l/32593502._SY75_.jpg|53171870], but works as a standalone novel since the connection is in terms of the lead characters and not the story itself. Best friends Ayesha, Nirvaan and Jai are in their fifteenth year and are going through the pangs of adolescence. A series of thefts take place in the upmarket neighbourhood of Ayesha’s residence and inexplicably, someone seems to be intent on harming her physically as well as mentally. Add to it the difficulties she has with her studies and some matters of the heart, Ayesha is sinking fast. A few incidents even threaten her friendship with Nirvaan and Jai. Whether she will be able to redeem herself and her friendship is what follows in this nice Young Adult novel.
Compared to the first novel in the series, this one is longer in size and deeper in terms of characterisation. The plot too is more complex, and the execution thrilling. The troubles that all teenagers face have been dealt with in a sensitive way, making the characters realistic. There are nice messages for the young readers too.
On the downside, the story is more focussed towards Ayesha, with her friends not being in action much. I would have liked to see the trio work together in solving a mystery rather than have Ayesha struggle alone for the most part of the story. Also, the actual mystery and the solving of it could have been more developed. The rushed climax is not as convincing as the rest of the book, which is a big let-down.
With [b:Gone in a Blink|48498352|Gone in a Blink (Take Three Mysteries, #2)|Richa Sambhy Mediratta|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1571383829l/48498352._SY75_.jpg|73809662], the author has created a mystery that, with its relatable characters and the fast-paced narration, would appeal to young readers a lot and I would rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars, rounded up to 4.
… (mais)

My thanks to the author / publisher for the giveaway copy of this nice little book. Goan Chase is a young adult mystery, the series starter, and it's quite promising. Three fourteen year olds, each with some unique talents, also with certain deficiencies, team up to solve a mystery that threatens their stay at, and any future visits to, an idyllic goan villa. In the process, they come close to their death, face their vulnerabilities, and overcome them. There's not much scope for proper development of their characters as it will be a continual process throughout the rest of the series. I think this trio could be India's answer to Enid Blyton's teams of teenage detectives!… (mais)