Take a photo of a barcode or cover
bluepoohreads22's reviews
210 reviews
Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker
Did not finish book. Stopped at 62%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 62%.
This book revolves around Clove, whose seemingly perfect life is shattered when a letter from a women’s prison threatens to expose her violent past. This forces her back into a dangerous situation she thought she had escaped. The novel explores her internal battle to escape her history and reclaim her identity.
I absolutely love the cover and title of the book. The artwork and color palette are stunning, and the title itself evokes a sense of rage, which aligns perfectly with the story's emotional intensity.
The central theme of the book is domestic violence, so it’s essential to check the trigger warnings before diving in. There are also occasional violent portrayals that can be quite disturbing at times.
One aspect of the book that didn’t resonate with me was the writing style—it felt more like telling rather than showing, which I personally don’t enjoy. The narrative style didn’t engage me as much as I had hoped, and I found it hard to connect with the characters and the story on a deeper level.
Despite my efforts to give the book multiple chances, especially considering the serious and important themes it tackles, I ultimately decided to DNF at the 200-page mark. Perhaps it’s due to my current mental space, or maybe it’s that the plot became somewhat predictable, and I didn’t find much more to look forward to.
In conclusion, this book addresses heavy themes, particularly around abuse, and I would advise caution before picking it up. It’s a challenging read, and not everyone may be in the right headspace to engage with it. As for me, I’m setting it aside for now—who knows, maybe one day I’ll return to it. For now, though, I’m marking it as my first DNF of the year.
I would like to thank Times Reads for sending me a review copy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Mental illness, Gaslighting
King of the Sea by Dina Zaman
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
3.5
‘A man had molested Alia (that was when a rooster had crowed in the jungle) and to absolve her ruin, Alia had turned into a chicken. So, the egg was their grandchild.’
This would be my first book from the author. This book is a collection of short stories, exploring themes of love, grief and some element of superstitions.
The stories vary in tone, with some being serious and others quite humorous. Two of my personal favorites are ‘And She Became An Angel’ and ‘The Last Indian Man Left Standing in Kuala Terengganu,’ which stood out for their unique storytelling and emotional depth.
Some of the stories reflects the daily occurrences of people’s livelihood in the Terengganu state. I really liked that the author had blended magic into everyday elements.
Overall, I would totally recommend this book for anyone looking to read a book on magical realism, culture and history. For Malaysians, particularly those from Terengganu, it’s a nostalgic journey that evokes memories of the past while celebrating the spirit of the region.
The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells by Rachel Greenlaw
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
3.0
‘Why is losing a friend always so much harder than losing a love?’
This book follows Carrie Morgan, who returns to her family’s magical mountain town to renovate her late grandmother's cottage. While there, she also becomes the heir to a coveted spell book passed down through generations of Morgan women. As she settles back into her hometown, she meets Matthieu, a mysterious stranger tied to an old legend. But when Matthieu disappears with the arrival of spring, Carrie is forced to confront both her past and the town’s mystical secrets in a quest to find him.
The book starts off with a cozy, atmospheric vibe, full of intrigue and a hint of suspense. There’s an air of mystery surrounding the Morgan women—are they cursed, witches, or perhaps something even more otherworldly? It leaves you wondering, though the question is never fully answered. But then again, it's a magical story, so anything is possible, right?
As this is one of my favorite genres, I was initially excited for the potential of Woodsmoke. The author touches on themes of feminism here and there, but unfortunately, these moments never felt fully developed. There’s a sense of it, but the exploration doesn’t go as deep as I would have liked—it’s more of a surface-level nod than a thorough examination.
The characters didn’t leave a lasting impression. Many of them fade into the background, and I found it difficult to feel a strong connection with them. The only character who really stood out to me was Howard, who was a quietly supportive figure, always standing by his woman through thick and thin.
While reading, I found myself skimming at times. There were moments when my curiosity was piqued, pulling me forward, but for the most part, the story felt predictable. At certain points, I even considered DNF-ing it, as the pace and character development didn’t fully engage me.
That said, Woodsmoke does explore themes of friendship, relationships, and sisterhood—ideas that have potential but could have been delved into much deeper with more character development.
The ending, however, was satisfying and offered a sense of closure that left me content. I appreciated how it wrapped up, even if the journey there wasn’t always compelling.
Overall, I’m unsure if I would recommend this book to everyone. I found myself struggling to keep going at times, and it took some convincing to continue. However, if you’re new to fantasy or looking for something light between heavier reads, this could be a good fit.
I would like to thank Times Reads for sending me a review copy.
This book follows Carrie Morgan, who returns to her family’s magical mountain town to renovate her late grandmother's cottage. While there, she also becomes the heir to a coveted spell book passed down through generations of Morgan women. As she settles back into her hometown, she meets Matthieu, a mysterious stranger tied to an old legend. But when Matthieu disappears with the arrival of spring, Carrie is forced to confront both her past and the town’s mystical secrets in a quest to find him.
The book starts off with a cozy, atmospheric vibe, full of intrigue and a hint of suspense. There’s an air of mystery surrounding the Morgan women—are they cursed, witches, or perhaps something even more otherworldly? It leaves you wondering, though the question is never fully answered. But then again, it's a magical story, so anything is possible, right?
As this is one of my favorite genres, I was initially excited for the potential of Woodsmoke. The author touches on themes of feminism here and there, but unfortunately, these moments never felt fully developed. There’s a sense of it, but the exploration doesn’t go as deep as I would have liked—it’s more of a surface-level nod than a thorough examination.
The characters didn’t leave a lasting impression. Many of them fade into the background, and I found it difficult to feel a strong connection with them. The only character who really stood out to me was Howard, who was a quietly supportive figure, always standing by his woman through thick and thin.
While reading, I found myself skimming at times. There were moments when my curiosity was piqued, pulling me forward, but for the most part, the story felt predictable. At certain points, I even considered DNF-ing it, as the pace and character development didn’t fully engage me.
That said, Woodsmoke does explore themes of friendship, relationships, and sisterhood—ideas that have potential but could have been delved into much deeper with more character development.
The ending, however, was satisfying and offered a sense of closure that left me content. I appreciated how it wrapped up, even if the journey there wasn’t always compelling.
Overall, I’m unsure if I would recommend this book to everyone. I found myself struggling to keep going at times, and it took some convincing to continue. However, if you’re new to fantasy or looking for something light between heavier reads, this could be a good fit.
I would like to thank Times Reads for sending me a review copy.
How to Let Things Go: 99 Tips from a Zen Buddhist Monk to Relinquish Control and Free Yourself Up for What Matters by Shunmyō Masuno
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
3.0
Written by a Buddhist monk, this book promises to help readers navigate the chaos of modern life by teaching the art of letting go. This is a book that focuses on releasing unnecessary stress, not overthinking, and learning how to let life unfold with ease.
The book is divided into five parts, each offering advice on how to live more calmly and mindfully:
- Don’t get overly involved
- Don’t worry about every little thing
- Be measured in your reactions
- Don’t waste your energy
- Don’t see everything as black and white
Each section includes several bite-sized tips, which is where the book’s simplicity really shines. As a seasoned self-help reader, I appreciated that some of the advice was straightforward and could easily be applied to daily life. One tip that really resonated with me was Tip #84: All of your choices are the right ones. What matters is for you to make the most of them. This thought-provoking advice challenges the idea that we need to always make the ‘perfect’ decision, and reminded me to focus on making the most of whatever path I choose.
However, while the book delivers on its promises, I did find that some tips felt a bit repetitive, especially for those familiar with mindfulness or self-help concepts. Some of the advice, such as not getting overly involved or not sweating the small stuff, might come across as a little too simplistic or even dismissive for a more experienced reader.
That being said, this book shines as a great starting point for someone new to self-help. It’s an excellent gift for anyone embarking on a new phase of life or looking for a gentle introduction to mindfulness and self-awareness. For those with more experience in the genre, the book may feel like a refresher or a good tool to flip through when in need of a quick moment of clarity. It’s a simple, easy-to-read guide that emphasizes living in the present and not getting bogged down by life's minor irritations.
In conclusion, while the book may feel repetitive at times for more seasoned readers, it serves its purpose well as an accessible introduction to Buddhist principles and mindful living. Just be aware that some tips could feel somewhat dismissive, especially if you're already familiar with mindfulness concepts. But overall, it’s a good, gentle nudge towards living a more peaceful, uncluttered life.
I would like to extend my gratitude to Times Reads for sending me a review copy.
The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich
emotional
hopeful
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This is my first book by the author, and I've been meaning to explore her work for some time. This novel, set in North Dakota, revolves around a love triangle involving Gary Geist, Kismet Poe, and Hugo, all against the backdrop of economic turmoil and environmental change. The novel attempts to delve into themes of love, fate, and human struggle, focusing on ordinary people grappling with personal and societal challenges.
First off, I have to say I love the cover and the deckled edges of the review copy I received. It adds an element of authenticity, with a slight touch of elegance that makes the book feel special.
As for the characters, I have to admit that I didn’t find them particularly likeable. Because of this, I struggled to become invested in their journeys from the very beginning. While they’re certainly complex and flawed, I found it difficult to fully connect with them.
Despite having short chapters, I felt the pacing was a bit slow for my taste. At times, I even considered putting the book down, but I persevered, hoping the story would find its rhythm. And, in the end, it did—just not until much later in the book.
There’s also an element of magical realism that the author sprinkles throughout the novel, which I did enjoy. These moments provided a layer of intrigue and richness, adding an unexpected depth to the story.
The plot really begins to pick up only after the three-quarter mark. For some readers, this slow build may require a bit of patience. The ending, though, was ultimately satisfying, providing some closure and resolution.
Overall, if you're drawn to complicated family dynamics, love triangles, magical realism, and explorations of environmental issues, this book could be the perfect fit for you. Just be prepared for a slower pace, especially early on, as you navigate the twists and turns of the narrative.
Thank you to Times Reads for sending me a review copy. ❤️
Following the Moon by James Norbury
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
5.0
I’ve always had a soft spot for illustrated books—there’s something about them that heals my inner child.
This book tells the story of a lost puppy, Amaya, and an aging wolf who rescues her. Together, they embark on a journey through treacherous landscapes, following the moon in the hope of reuniting Amaya with her parents. Along the way, they face challenges that teach them profound lessons about friendship, love, sacrifice, and the inevitability of change. The narrative gently explores deep themes of grief, growth, and the healing power of connection.
I was deeply moved by both the story and the stunning illustrations. This book felt like a gentle reminder, a note to self, and a comforting guide for anyone struggling with difficult times. It offers solace when engulfed in darkness and helps remind us that even in the most challenging moments, there is always hope.
What touched me even further was the author’s note at the end of the book. He shares how this was one of his toughest works to write, especially given the sensitive themes of grief and loss. It’s clear that much of his heart and soul went into this story, which makes it even more powerful.
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this today. It soothed me in ways I didn’t expect, especially considering the journey ahead of me—one I’m admittedly anxious about. One line in particular from the book resonated deeply with me: ‘Thanks to impermanence, all things are possible.’ That simple thought brought me comfort, and I’ll carry it with me.
Thank you so much Times Reads for this review copy. I will cherish it and turn to it whenever I need a moment of reflection.
This book tells the story of a lost puppy, Amaya, and an aging wolf who rescues her. Together, they embark on a journey through treacherous landscapes, following the moon in the hope of reuniting Amaya with her parents. Along the way, they face challenges that teach them profound lessons about friendship, love, sacrifice, and the inevitability of change. The narrative gently explores deep themes of grief, growth, and the healing power of connection.
I was deeply moved by both the story and the stunning illustrations. This book felt like a gentle reminder, a note to self, and a comforting guide for anyone struggling with difficult times. It offers solace when engulfed in darkness and helps remind us that even in the most challenging moments, there is always hope.
What touched me even further was the author’s note at the end of the book. He shares how this was one of his toughest works to write, especially given the sensitive themes of grief and loss. It’s clear that much of his heart and soul went into this story, which makes it even more powerful.
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this today. It soothed me in ways I didn’t expect, especially considering the journey ahead of me—one I’m admittedly anxious about. One line in particular from the book resonated deeply with me: ‘Thanks to impermanence, all things are possible.’ That simple thought brought me comfort, and I’ll carry it with me.
Thank you so much Times Reads for this review copy. I will cherish it and turn to it whenever I need a moment of reflection.
Match Me If You Can by Swati Hegde
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
4.0
This is the author’s debut novel. Set in the backdrop of the bustling city of Mumbai, Jia Deshpande, a fashion writer and secret love blogger, needs to prove her matchmaking skills for a new column while ignoring her deepening feelings for her childhood friend, Jaiman Patil. Jaiman, a pub owner and honorary family member, struggles with his own feelings for Jia and his pub's troubles. When Jia's matchmaking efforts go wrong, risking friendships and her bond with Jaiman, she must reconsider her ideas about love, realizing it's more complex than she thought.
I enjoyed reading this novel. It was light-hearted and easy to follow. Jia, our main character, is strong-willed and independent, believing she doesn't need anyone—but that's just on the surface. Deep down, she longs for a meaningful and romantic connection, something many of us can relate to. Her journey of self-discovery and vulnerability is compelling, even if she can be a bit frustrating at times. Although I found her slightly annoying occasionally, she ultimately redeems herself with her growth and resilience, which earns her a bonus point in my book.
Jaiman, on the other hand, is the epitome of a "golden retriever boy"—loyal, affectionate, and eager to please. He harbors deep feelings for his childhood best friend, Jia, but struggles with vulnerability unless he has a bit of liquid courage. His desire to prove his worth and his bouts of jealousy add layers to his character, making him both endearing and flawed. His internal conflict about expressing his feelings is relatable and adds depth to his character.
The novel also features several notable side characters who contribute to the story's lively and enthusiastic atmosphere. These characters enrich the narrative, providing additional perspectives and adding to the overall charm of the book.
However, one aspect I didn't enjoy was the constant back-and-forth between Jia and Jaiman. Their repeated misunderstandings and miscommunications were annoying, detracting from the story's flow. While this push-and-pull dynamic is central to the plot, it sometimes felt excessive and frustrating.
Overall, if you're into themes like childhood friends turning into lovers, the concept of found family, slow-burn romance, and clean, cute vibes, this book won't disappoint you. It delivers a heartwarming story with relatable characters and charming relationships.
My ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
Some of my favourite lines:
💐 ‘Love didn't happen by chance, after all it took effort. And marriage? That warranted serious hard work.’
💐 ‘Maybe falling in love wasn't a choice, but working on nurturing that love within a relationship absolutely was.’
💐 ‘Loving someone means putting hope above fear.’
Thank you to Times Reads and Miss Putri Fariza for this arc.
I enjoyed reading this novel. It was light-hearted and easy to follow. Jia, our main character, is strong-willed and independent, believing she doesn't need anyone—but that's just on the surface. Deep down, she longs for a meaningful and romantic connection, something many of us can relate to. Her journey of self-discovery and vulnerability is compelling, even if she can be a bit frustrating at times. Although I found her slightly annoying occasionally, she ultimately redeems herself with her growth and resilience, which earns her a bonus point in my book.
Jaiman, on the other hand, is the epitome of a "golden retriever boy"—loyal, affectionate, and eager to please. He harbors deep feelings for his childhood best friend, Jia, but struggles with vulnerability unless he has a bit of liquid courage. His desire to prove his worth and his bouts of jealousy add layers to his character, making him both endearing and flawed. His internal conflict about expressing his feelings is relatable and adds depth to his character.
The novel also features several notable side characters who contribute to the story's lively and enthusiastic atmosphere. These characters enrich the narrative, providing additional perspectives and adding to the overall charm of the book.
However, one aspect I didn't enjoy was the constant back-and-forth between Jia and Jaiman. Their repeated misunderstandings and miscommunications were annoying, detracting from the story's flow. While this push-and-pull dynamic is central to the plot, it sometimes felt excessive and frustrating.
Overall, if you're into themes like childhood friends turning into lovers, the concept of found family, slow-burn romance, and clean, cute vibes, this book won't disappoint you. It delivers a heartwarming story with relatable characters and charming relationships.
My ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
Some of my favourite lines:
💐 ‘Love didn't happen by chance, after all it took effort. And marriage? That warranted serious hard work.’
💐 ‘Maybe falling in love wasn't a choice, but working on nurturing that love within a relationship absolutely was.’
💐 ‘Loving someone means putting hope above fear.’
Thank you to Times Reads and Miss Putri Fariza for this arc.
Winds of War by Mica De Leon
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
This was a refreshing read. This is my first time reading a fantasy inspired by Philippine mythology. Kudos to the author for the fantasy debut.
The premise of "Winds of War" revolves around Yin, a wind mage in a world inspired by Philippine mythology, where gods and magic intertwine with the fate of kingdoms. Once revered, magic now lies commodified, leading to unrest and the return of vengeful gods targeting the kingdom of Kayumalon. As Yin grapples with her newfound immense power and a desire for a permanent home, she faces a crucial decision: to use her abilities to save those who oppressed her people or to embrace destruction as a vessel of divine wrath.
The world-building was adequate, creating a solid and immersive setting that drew on rich cultural elements and mythology to enhance the narrative. The pacing of the story was well-managed, maintaining a good balance between action and character development, which kept the plot engaging and the reader's interest sustained. The character development was particularly strong, with well-rounded and evolving characters that added depth and emotional resonance to the story.
I really appreciated that the author provided a glossary as a guide to the kingdom names and other terms. This extra resource was incredibly helpful, as the numerous names and specific terminology could sometimes be confusing. The glossary allowed me to easily reference and understand the context, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable reading experience.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next one soon. If you are looking for an invigorating fantasy read based on Philippine mythology, look no further-this will be the perfect book.
Some of my favourite lines:
✨ ‘Marriages were no different than contracts- simple transactions between partners with mutual or complementary needs.’
✨’Love without duty is an empty promise. Duty without love is vanity.’
Thank you to Times Reads and Miss Putri Fariza for the review copy.
The premise of "Winds of War" revolves around Yin, a wind mage in a world inspired by Philippine mythology, where gods and magic intertwine with the fate of kingdoms. Once revered, magic now lies commodified, leading to unrest and the return of vengeful gods targeting the kingdom of Kayumalon. As Yin grapples with her newfound immense power and a desire for a permanent home, she faces a crucial decision: to use her abilities to save those who oppressed her people or to embrace destruction as a vessel of divine wrath.
The world-building was adequate, creating a solid and immersive setting that drew on rich cultural elements and mythology to enhance the narrative. The pacing of the story was well-managed, maintaining a good balance between action and character development, which kept the plot engaging and the reader's interest sustained. The character development was particularly strong, with well-rounded and evolving characters that added depth and emotional resonance to the story.
I really appreciated that the author provided a glossary as a guide to the kingdom names and other terms. This extra resource was incredibly helpful, as the numerous names and specific terminology could sometimes be confusing. The glossary allowed me to easily reference and understand the context, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable reading experience.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next one soon. If you are looking for an invigorating fantasy read based on Philippine mythology, look no further-this will be the perfect book.
Some of my favourite lines:
✨ ‘Marriages were no different than contracts- simple transactions between partners with mutual or complementary needs.’
✨’Love without duty is an empty promise. Duty without love is vanity.’
Thank you to Times Reads and Miss Putri Fariza for the review copy.
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.0
I have a confession to make. I purchased this book solely because of its gorgeous cover. Just look at that stunning cover! I absolutely love it.
Now, onto the book itself. I believe I would appreciate it more as a novella rather than a novel. The chapters are short and easy to get through, and I enjoyed the thrill of wanting to know more. There are also humorous bits that I found myself cackling about.
The author tactfully tackles abuse and childhood trauma with ease, allowing us to piece things together as the story unfolds. However, the characters lack depth, which might make the book seem a bit dreary to some readers.
Overall, if you enjoy stories about sisterhood and are looking for something fun to pass the time, I believe this book will perfectly suit your taste.
Some of my favourite lines:
🍀 ‘It is as though love is only for the beautiful.’
🍀 ‘It is a marketing ploy: you look at a beautiful person with a great body and think maybe, if you combine the right clothes and accessorize appropriately, you can look as good as they do.’
🍀 ‘I am sure they are celebrating him in hell.’
🍀 ‘She will always have me and I will always have her; no one else matters.’
Now, onto the book itself. I believe I would appreciate it more as a novella rather than a novel. The chapters are short and easy to get through, and I enjoyed the thrill of wanting to know more. There are also humorous bits that I found myself cackling about.
The author tactfully tackles abuse and childhood trauma with ease, allowing us to piece things together as the story unfolds. However, the characters lack depth, which might make the book seem a bit dreary to some readers.
Overall, if you enjoy stories about sisterhood and are looking for something fun to pass the time, I believe this book will perfectly suit your taste.
Some of my favourite lines:
🍀 ‘It is as though love is only for the beautiful.’
🍀 ‘It is a marketing ploy: you look at a beautiful person with a great body and think maybe, if you combine the right clothes and accessorize appropriately, you can look as good as they do.’
🍀 ‘I am sure they are celebrating him in hell.’
🍀 ‘She will always have me and I will always have her; no one else matters.’
Yalpanam: A Novel by Shivani Sivagurunathan
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
3.5
Some time ago, I started reading this book but found the plot sequence a bit disturbing. So, I took a break and then resumed reading.
What captivated me about this book is the eloquent writing—it's almost lyrical. That's what kept me going.
The narrative shifts between past and present Malaya, unfolding at a residence named Yalpanam. The author's vivid descriptions offer readers a glimpse into past Malaya, which I found enjoyable.
However, I found myself confused about the timeline as I read further. Perhaps chapter titles indicating whether we're in the past or present would have been helpful, especially for readers like me. It almost led me to abandon the book due to this annoyance.
As the conclusion approaches, the author skillfully ties up the story, requiring patience from the reader.
I highly recommend picking up this book for its beautiful phrases, insights into past and present Malaya, a touch of time-travel fantasy, and exquisite descriptions.
Some of my favourite lines:
🌱 ‘You want become like Auntie Bonnie? Live in condo by herself, paint donno what picture, then tell me she one artist. Artist, artist is what, you tell me? Smoking cigarette, drink whiskey like she born a man. Where got woman like that? Crazy, ah?.’
🌱 ‘The Yal is a lute. In ancient times, a blind Panan lute player visited a king in Ceylon. The king was so captivated by the Yal player's music that he gifted the blind Panan musician with land on his island. Soon, the lute player filled this new land with people from his homeland in India. This new settlement was called Yalpanam, land of the blind minstrel. 'Jaffna' is a corruption of the Tamil word ‘Yalpanam'.’
What captivated me about this book is the eloquent writing—it's almost lyrical. That's what kept me going.
The narrative shifts between past and present Malaya, unfolding at a residence named Yalpanam. The author's vivid descriptions offer readers a glimpse into past Malaya, which I found enjoyable.
However, I found myself confused about the timeline as I read further. Perhaps chapter titles indicating whether we're in the past or present would have been helpful, especially for readers like me. It almost led me to abandon the book due to this annoyance.
As the conclusion approaches, the author skillfully ties up the story, requiring patience from the reader.
I highly recommend picking up this book for its beautiful phrases, insights into past and present Malaya, a touch of time-travel fantasy, and exquisite descriptions.
Some of my favourite lines:
🌱 ‘You want become like Auntie Bonnie? Live in condo by herself, paint donno what picture, then tell me she one artist. Artist, artist is what, you tell me? Smoking cigarette, drink whiskey like she born a man. Where got woman like that? Crazy, ah?.’
🌱 ‘The Yal is a lute. In ancient times, a blind Panan lute player visited a king in Ceylon. The king was so captivated by the Yal player's music that he gifted the blind Panan musician with land on his island. Soon, the lute player filled this new land with people from his homeland in India. This new settlement was called Yalpanam, land of the blind minstrel. 'Jaffna' is a corruption of the Tamil word ‘Yalpanam'.’