Soul of the Words

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, we explore The Answer Is No by Fredrik Backman—a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human story about Lucas, a man who wants nothing more than to be left alone.

From his refusal to interact with neighbors to his accidental involvement in the absurd Pile Committee over a frying pan, Lucas’s life is a rollercoaster of awkwardness, wit, and unexpected lessons.

Through clever satire and laugh-ou...

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, we step into the enchanting world of The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods. This story, woven across two timelines, follows Opaline, Henry, and Martha as they navigate love, loss, and the mysterious pull of an ancient, hidden bookshop.

Set against a backdrop of magical realism and dreamy landscapes, this novel takes readers through Opaline’s riveting journey in the past, her escape from soci...

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, I delve into White Nights by Fyodor Dostoevsky—a short story that feels like poetry, captures loneliness with precision, and explores fleeting love in the most tender way possible.

We follow the story of an unnamed dreamer wandering the streets of St. Petersburg, lost in his thoughts, until he meets Nastenka, a young woman crying by the canal. What follows is a tale of instant conne...

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, we dive into Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan. Set in 1980s Ireland, this historical fiction novella may be short—just 70 pages—but its story is deeply impactful. Follow Bill Furlong, a coal supplier, as he navigates moral dilemmas, haunting secrets inside a convent, and the weight of doing the right thing even when it’s not easy. With poetic writing, stunning metaphors, and pr...

What happens when a woman checks into a hotel to end her life and ends up accidentally becoming part of a stranger’s wedding celebration? The Wedding People by Alison Espach is a brilliant mix of humor, heartbreak, and life lessons, wrapped in one unforgettable story.

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, I share why this 2024 Goodreads Best Fiction winner is a 5/5 star read for me. From its artful storytelling and complex...

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, I dive into The Women by Kristin Hannah—a book that swept me off my feet and became my favorite read of 2024. Set during the Vietnam War, this gripping historical fiction follows Frankie, a young woman defying societal norms to become a combat nurse.

Join me as I discuss Frankie’s journey of bravery, friendship, and resilience, the beauty of Kristin Hannah’s writing, and why this b...

In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, I review Almond by Sohn Won-Pyung, a story that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on what it means to truly feel. Follow Yunjae’s journey as he learns to navigate life with alexithymia, develops unexpected bonds with Gon and Dora, and discovers emotions he never thought he could feel.

I share why this 5-star book made me sob, how its simplicity struck a chord, a...

Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler is not just a book—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that delves into the raw, unfiltered reality of one woman’s journey. In this episode of Soul of the Words by Abhya, I explore why this book is so much more than a love story. From its heavy themes of trauma and resilience to its relatable imperfections, Adelaide’s story will make you reflect on your own life in unexpected ways.

Join me as I discuss ...