A great book can turn a quiet winter evening into time well spent. This winter, meet eight authors bringing fresh ideas, moving stories, and new ways of seeing life to readers. From dark folklore and heartfelt romance to poetry, science, faith, mental well-being, and career skills, this collection has a book for every kind of reader. Each author brings a distinct voice and a story worth knowing. Read on to meet the writers behind these books and find your next pick for the colder months.
1. Ajay Jugraan
Ajay Jugraan is a corporate lawyer by profession and a poet-writer by instinct. His writing moves fluently between humour, tenderness, reflection, and the revealing details of ordinary life. His latest poetry collection, Ratatouille & Potpourri Poems, gathers 44 poems alive with intimate feeling, universal reflection, wit, and moments that invite readers to pause, recognise, and smile. His literary work also embraces English and Hindi short stories, Hindi poetry, and Japanese-style haiku. Through books including Haar Uphaar, The Bridge on the River Song and Antrang Satrang, Jugraan has shaped a distinctive, wide-ranging voice. His forthcoming works include a collection of uncanny stories and memoirs of a diplomat.
2. Pratiksha Misra
Pratiksha Misra, an author, poet, and technology professional with over 20 years in the tech industry, brings Odisha’s lesser-known folklore to readers through 50 Dark Folklore & Ghost Stories From Odisha. Writing since she was nine, Pratiksha blends folklore, human psychology, and the supernatural to tell stories rooted in village memories, oral traditions, and old beliefs. The book brings together 50+ dark tales and superstitions from Odisha, many of which have rarely been told outside their local communities. A #1 book in Odisha Horror, it is a gripping pick for readers drawn to folklore and ghost stories.
3. Gaurav Pattnaik
Gaurav Pattnaik, an educationist, consultant, and AI entrepreneur, brings science and spirituality together in his Amazon #1 Best Seller, Finding Shiva: A Scientific Exploration of the Formless God. Rather than simply praising Lord Shiva, Pattnaik asks questions and looks at the ideas behind the formless God through quantum physics, biology, cosmology, archaeology, and more. The book also explores consciousness, psychedelics, simulation theory, and the meaning of life, while drawing links across world faiths. Written for believers and non-believers alike, Finding Shiva invites curious readers to question what they know about God, science, and reality.
4. Raquel Tellez Mamaril
Raquel Tellez Mamaril, a Filipino registered nurse, licensed teacher, and writer, brings her love for people, travel, and culture to Someone Was Listening. After teaching internationally for over 15 years, she draws from her experiences across countries to create stories filled with romance, friendship, faith, and emotion. Her novel follows three women whose lives change through love, loss, travel, and unexpected encounters. Inspired by Raquel’s own time in India, the book reminds readers that every person carries a story worth hearing. Her first novel, The Last Ride, was also featured at the World Book Fair 2026 in New Delhi.
5. Dr. Biswapratim Dasgupta
Dr. Biswapratim Dasgupta brings 15 years of experience leading businesses across corporate India to Offscript: The Other Side of Enough, a thoughtful book for people who seem to have it all together but quietly feel worn out. Drawing from his own understanding of the cost of constant performance, he writes about burnout, self-doubt, comparison, and the pressure to keep moving. Rather than giving quick answers, Dasgupta creates space for honest reflection and calmer choices. For readers tired of chasing more and looking for meaningful progress without rushing, Offscript is a timely and relatable read.
6. Kavitha Venkatesh
Kavitha Venkatesh, an analytics professional, traveller, and storyteller, brings everyday emotions and human relationships to life in her debut novel, The Day She Met Him. Published by Notion Press, the novel follows Vidya and Vijay, two strangers from very different lives whose paths cross through an unexpected marriage. As they face old wounds, family pressure, and questions about love and trust, their bond slowly changes. Kavitha’s writing focuses on feelings that feel real and close to everyday life. For readers who enjoy warm romance, family drama, and stories about finding love when least expected, this novel makes a heartfelt pick.
7. Prof. (Dr.) Soujanya Pudi
Prof. (Dr.) Soujanya Pudi, an academic leader, ELT specialist, corporate trainer, and author with over 29 years of experience, brings her expertise in communication and education to 21st Century Employability Skills. The book is a practical guide for students, educators, and professionals looking to build skills needed at work, from communication and teamwork to critical thinking, leadership, digital literacy, adaptability, and professional ethics. With a strong focus on value-based education, Dr. Pudi believes career success should go hand in hand with confidence, empathy, and ethical conduct. Her work helps readers prepare for work while becoming better communicators and responsible professionals.
8. Drakshan Abeer
Drakshan Abeer, a young writer and psychology student at Azim Premji University, Bangalore, brings love, emotion, and self-worth to her debut book, With or Without. Born in Bhopal in 2008, Drakshan has been writing poetry and short stories while earning recognition at international and literary events, including the Bhopal Literature Festival. Her novel follows Emily, a young woman who mistakes an ideal love for a perfect one, only to learn that love begins with knowing her own worth. With heartfelt emotions and a young voice, With or Without speaks to readers finding themselves.
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From Ajay Jugraan’s thoughtful poetry to Pratiksha Misra’s dark tales from Odisha, this group of authors brings a rich mix of ideas and stories to the page. Gaurav Pattnaik asks big questions about science and faith, while Raquel Tellez Mamaril and Kavitha Venkatesh write about love, loss, and human bonds. Dr. Biswapratim Dasgupta, Prof. Soujanya Pudi, and Drakshan Abeer bring fresh views on well-being, career skills, and self-worth. This winter, pick up a book, make time to read, and find a story that stays with you.
