Queen & King: Each is Growing a Devil Within. It Takes One Devil to Punish Another

by Nandini Gupta

Avanti and Dhairya haven’t had perfect lives. She’s waited tables, sold newspapers, and cleaned houses to get by, with no parental shield over her. He’s worked at a bakery to earn enough money to keep away from his troubled family. When the two meet, they find comfort in each other’s company, forgetting that they’re trapped in a vicious cycle that society has created for people like them. Then, the two have a baby. But what they had hoped would be a beam of light soon turns into the darkest days of their lives. Cracks emerge in their relationship as soon as the realities of their world creep up on them. Avanti has secrets of her own, while Dhairya brews newfound trouble. She’s passionate and possessive, while he’s adamant and obsessive. When conflicts emerge, the person most affected is their baby. But Avanti won’t let Dhairya’s changed behaviour jeopardize her child’s future. How far will she go to protect her baby? And how much is she willing to lose?
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“Once again, Nandini Gupta leads us into a modern-day landscape of profoundly human drama, cultural tug-of-war, and tremendously satisfying storytelling. This world she creates is rich, surprising, and vital, embracing the pathos of the ordinary and transforming it into the riveting. Consumed and haunted by the past, her characters are desperate to rise beyond their personal demons and simply survive in the hopes of one day finding contentment and happiness.” – John Dietrich - Teaching faculty at Dramatists Guild Institute and New York University Tisch School of the Arts, Director, Choreographer, Educator, Writer

“Nandini delves into dreams, human frailty, and truths with an obsession that matches that of the protagonists. The fascinating structure of the narrative makes this book an engaging experience.” – Ananth Mahadevan - Indian screenwriter, actor, and film director.

“Gripping and unsettling in equal parts, Gupta skilfully leads us through the complex dance between a couple’s ideals and society’s standards. A must-read! ” – Neha Hiranandani - Author of “Girl Indian Women Who Broke the Rules,” Columns in The Indian Express, Vogue, Huffington Post, NDTV

“Get ready to be blown away by the unparalleled storytelling ability and vivid imagination of Nandini. Her characters are complex, their plotlines are intricate, and her writing is nothing short of poetic. Get the book and experience the magic for yourself !” – Priya Kumar - Internationally acclaimed motivational speaker, Executive coach, Author of fifteen award-winning books.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nandini Gupta is an Indian novelist. She is the author of Daughter of the Night. Currently, she is studying journalism and dramatic literature at New York University. She also works as a journalist, with her articles appearing in various publications, including The Times of India. She lives in New York.

Genres: Thriller

360 pages, Paperback

Published June 3, 2023

About the author

Nandini Gupta is an undergraduate studying broadcast journalism and dramatic writing at New York University.

She’s the author of “Daughter of the Night,” her debut novel released in November 2021, recognized as a bestseller in her home country, India. Her second novel, “Queen & King” was released in June 2023.

Besides penning novels, she is an avid reporter, filmmaker, and writer often producing short documentaries and writing feature articles and profiles. She’s worked at the opinion and news analysis desk at Times Now, one of India’s most-watched English news channels. She writes and produces videos for Washington Square News, NYU Local, and Cooper Squared, and previously wrote for Youth Aspiring Magazines. Her work has also been featured in The Times of India, The Indian Express, and WNYU 89.1 FM.

Her video profile of an Iranian musician, "Profile of Sepehr Pirasteh: Iranian Composer and Conductor Based in Philadelphia," and her profile on an NYU math professor, "From 'Mad Minute' to formulating magic and meaning in math" were both nominated for the Hearst Journalism Awards Program.

She pursues playwriting, too, and can often be found helping produce plays in New York.

In her free time, she creates content for her YouTube channel, Instagram and other social media.

Some of her work can be found here: https://www.nandini-gupta.com/

Reviews

[Dipa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Queen and King" by Nandini Gupta is a tale that narrates the intricate struggles faced by a mother, a wife, and a woman. The story revolves around Avanthi, who, after enduring numerous hardships, finally finds her dream life through her husband, Dhairya.

The initial chapters set the stage for a seemingly perfect life, where everything falls into place for Avanthi. However, the story takes a sharp turn when she becomes a mother, adding a new layer of challenges to her role as a wife and mother. This theme resonates with many women who have experienced the delicate balance between caring for a child and maintaining a strong marital bond.

As a reader, I found myself readily connecting with Avanthi's story, as I, too, have traversed a similar phase in my life. The author skillfully portrays the internal conflicts faced by women when forced to choose between their children and their spouses. This central dilemma is one that often arises in reality, prompting readers to reflect on their own experiences and choices. It is indeed a story that resonates with women from all walks of life.

The opening and climax of "Queen and King" are particularly engaging, capturing the reader's attention from the very beginning. The narrative presents a thought-provoking exploration of societal expectations and the internal battles faced by women, leaving the reader emotionally invested in Avanthi's journey.

However, the middle part of the book does tend to drag on. The prolonged focus on Avanthi's challenges may leave some readers longing for a more varied pace or additional subplots to maintain their interest. Nonetheless, the depth of the character development compensates for this minor setback, making Avanthi's story relatable and engaging throughout.

I highly recommend "Queen and King" to anyone seeking a relatable and introspective read that explores the complexities of a woman's life. It is a story that will leave readers proud of their own choices and provoke contemplation long after turning the final page.

[Saumya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nandini Gupta's "Queen & King: Each is Growing a Devil Within, It Takes One Devil to Punish Another" is a powerful and compelling narrative that unravels the lives of a couple who have endured tumultuous childhoods for different reasons. It delves into their journey, from their initial meeting to the blossoming of their love, setting an example of love and respect despite the constraints of an orthodox society. However, as they say, "Nothing is permanent," and their lives take an unexpected turn with the arrival of their child.

The birth of their child becomes a pivotal moment, revealing the ugly side of toxic masculinity, societal stereotypes, and the cruel facets of society. In a gripping and precise narration, the author skillfully unfolds the plot, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by a few couples and the profound impact it has on their children.

"Queen & King" offers a voice to those who have gone through similar experiences, boldly addressing issues such as toxic masculinity and societal pressures. It's a story that unearths the demons hidden within society, challenging readers to reflect on the lasting consequences of societal expectations and norms.

While the book's narrative is masterfully executed, it does not shy away from the difficult truths it presents. The story is a reminder that sometimes, even the strongest love and respect can be tested when confronted with the prejudices of society. Overall, "Queen & King" is a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience, wrapped in a compelling narrative that forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths.

[Ajay Tomar · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Queen and King: Each is Growing a Devil Within, It Takes One Devil to Punish Another" by Nandini Gupta is a strong, compelling story of a couple who had a miserable childhood for different reasons. It explores how they met, how their love blossomed, and how they set a beautiful example of love and respect in an orthodox societal environment. However, they soon experience the famous quote, "Nothing is permanent," in their lives.

The birth of their child brings about a sudden change in Dhairya and Avanti's lives. What happens next is a crucial turning point, a result of toxic masculinity, mindset, stereotypes, and the cruel side of society.

The author tremendously and precisely accounts for the whole plot with gripping narration effortlessly. The novel sheds light on the indigestible truth of a few couples and the impact it has on children. It gives voice to the stories of those who have gone through similar experiences.

The character development of Avanti is particularly remarkable. She bravely weathers the storm and serves as an inspiration.

While the title could have been better, every other aspect is commendable, from the writing to the thought process and storytelling.

I highly recommend this book to every kind of reader. 🙌

[Saloni Singh Chauhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queen and King by Nandini Gupta is a family drama/thriller with themes of social commentary on men's mentality and perceiving women as an inferior being.
The story revolves around a married couple and the hardships each character had to undergo and struggle for their life before they met each other. Avanti and Dhairya have struggled all over their past life, for settling a 'home sweet home'; their post marital life brought mirth in both of their lives. But after the birth of their son, remarkable changes come, flactuation in their behaviours and eventually a sense of disturbance haunt them.
Avanti begins to observe numerous alterations in Dhairya's attitude after the birth of Kabir. Dhairya seemed to be keeping a lot of things from her. The overarching premise of the book was favouring male children over girls. When Avanti noticed how strongly rooted in patriarchy her husband's ideas were, she realised that her life with her husband and son was in danger. To learn what transpired next? You must read this book.
Author captures the modern day , landscape of poverty, cultural tug -of- war biased woven horror twist. She delves into the complexity of human drama along with compelling writing that's all keep a reader hooked to the parts where the plot thickens with ellgancy.

[Lea Queen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queen and King by Nandini Gupta is a really important take on the society and it's hidden life behind all the sunshine and happy go lucky attitudes.
This story focuses mainly on Dhairya and Avanti, two people who are fighting for mere existence in this brutal world. They have faced and tried to overcome many bitter aespects of the lower middle class society in the past. So when they find eachother, they fall head over heels for eachother and find solace in eachother. Then enters the child and that's when their bubble bursts.
Faced with the situation of a new member to support, quest for a new job, changed behaviour of Dhairya and past traumas arriving again, it's upon Avanti to save her child.
The story really depicts the bitter truth of the society which we barely get to read in so called 'happy ending ' reads. The past stories with different fonts are a thrill to read. Each chapter has something hidden which made me want to turn the pages quickly. The description of the way each of the main protagonist interacted, not with all calm and cheer, but with the weight of what they have gone through, really deepened my experience of the read and made me understand them better.
The cover is eye catching and the vocabulary is easy to understand.A good read.

[Varma Shagun · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Never enrage a mother."

✓I decided to read this one because I was intrigued by the blurb. The cover says, "Each is growing a devil within, it takes one devil to punish another." This line had immediately caught my attention.
✓The story revolves around a couple - Avanti and Dhairya. Struggling with poverty and childhood trauma, they do various odd jobs in order to survive. Dhairya is the perfect husband that anyone could ever ask for. However, things change after they become parents. What follows is sheer madness.
✓Talking of the cover and the title, I feel they are pretty appropriate. As the story unfolds, a very ugly face of the society is unvieled. Although the main theme of the story is gender inequality and female foeticide, many other sub-themes like poverty and love, have also been incorporated.
✓The ending was so intense! The narration is fast paced. It has lucid language and a gripping plot-line.

[Soochi Sandhiya · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it."

Book Review
The title of the book would never tell you the plot of this story. I first had an impression that its about a kingdom and its king. But this turned out to be an entirely different story.
It is about Avanti and Dhairya and their lives.Their lives are full of struggle and in spite of their hardships they would keep pushing themselves to get a better versions of future.
Life had been hard for Avanti, she kept going and have done different jobs to earn bread and butter. Just when she thought life will take a sweet turn after having a kid, it gets twisted to jeopardize her present.
She was running for better life for her family, but the past and its consequences would keep pestering her.
What was bothering her?
Will she overcome this?
How she will recover the loss of her past?

Likes
The writing style is impressive, the writer have explicitely used the sublots to engage the readers. The vocabulary is enriched and perfectly fitted in the storyline. The characters are well defined and realistic.

[Sanchari Das · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Blood drips from the knife as I stare into his eyes for the last time. I'm told, death is a scary thing. Today, both of us are scared."

Sometimes, life scares one more than death. When dreams break, plans shatter and heart aches to be free, one has to pick up the knife, look fear deep in the eye and smash it with one swift strike. Author Nandini Gupta explores this crude human propensity in her book "Queen and King", where each is growing a devil within, for it takes one devil to punish another.

Trapped in the vicious cycle that society has created for people from the lower strata, Avanti and Dhairya tries to find comfort, peace, and happiness in their love for each other. But as the realities of the world slowly creep in, cracks begins to emerge in their relationship.

And their child, instead of bringing a new beam of light, invites fresh darkness into their life. But in their individual obsessions, struggles and conflicts, it is the baby who becomes the worst sufferer. How much a mother is willing to lose for her child and how far Avanti will go to protect her baby from Dhairya is for the story to unveil.

"That's the thing about humans: they're masters at digging their own graves."

With an engaging tone, smooth narration and thrilling plotline that employs different font style to depict different mode and time frame, the story oscillates between past and present while sending a serious foreboding about the future event which is to unfold soon.

The eternal clash between the rich and the poor is effectively portrayed in the story which tells the tale of the chilling indifference of the rich towards the plights of the poor. The lifelong struggle of the poor and the age-old oppression practiced by the upper class is brilliantly brought out at every step in the story.

The novel also attempts to suggest that poor or rich, the plight of women tend to remain the same everywhere. For, the malicious practice of patriarchy and gender discrimination has reached so deep into the skin of the society and mixed with its blood that none can avoid, deny or ignore it, no matter how hard they strive.

"People told me stories about brave kings when I was a little girl. But no one spoke about the brave queens."

Still, the novel embraces a strong voice of feminism through the journey of its protagonist who refuses to bow down before male dominance. Avanti rejects the norms of the patriarchal society that asks its women to suppress her thoughts, emotions and beliefs and mould herself according to their rules. And she manages to emerge as the strong, confident, bold woman character who can crave her own path of dignity, freedom and self-respect.

But Dhairya fails to live up to his potential and falls prey to the society's mindless games. His is a perfect potrayal of a  character that showcases how it is the society and its evil systems that give birth to criminals. They have the power to turn even the most perfect human into the most dangerous monster.

The stream of consciousness technique of narration as employed by the story works to trace the thought process of the protagonist which helps in establishing an intimate connection with the characters, understand their struggles and view the world through their perspectives. At times, deep philosophical thoughts and musings seep into the tale, making the readers ponder about life for a long time.

"It’s the journey that counts... it's the journey that changes you and makes you, you... not the final destination."

But it's the unexpected revelation at the end of the novel that takes the cake as it catches the readers off guard and then completely dumbstrucks them with the soul crushing events that follow.

Amid all its thrill, suspense and philosophy, "Queen and King" by Nandini Gupta is a novel that brings out the true face of the society and the effects its cruel traps have on its people. But it’s also the story of how one can strive to stand up for oneself and fight to break free from its vicious cycle.

"Listen to yourself for once. Listen to what you want to do. Listen to your story. Be there for yourself."

[Debabrata Mishra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: Queen and King
Author: Nandini Gupta

Queen and King by Nandini Gupta is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the lives of Avanti and Dhairya, two individuals struggling to overcome their troubled pasts and build a life filled with love and happiness. The author skillfully portrays the complexities of their characters and the challenges they face, resulting in a thought-provoking and impactful story.

Avanti, an orphan who has learned to take care of herself from a young age, works as a maid to make ends meet. Dhairya, coming from a poor family background both financially and morally, dreams of a better future. When they meet at a bakery, their lives change forever as they fall in love and decide to marry.

The strength and resilience of Avanti are highlighted throughout the narrative as she navigates the challenges of poverty and abandonment. The transformation of Dhairya from a troubled past, influenced by his father's abusive behavior, into an ideal husband is heartwarming and adds depth to the story.

The book effectively explores the couple's relationship after the birth of their child, depicting the complexities and sacrifices involved in parenthood. It delves into the profound love and unwavering determination of a mother to protect her child, even in the face of danger.

Nandini Gupta skillfully portrays Avanti and Dhairya's hardships, highlighting the social constraints and cyclical nature of their lives. The author's writing is frank and passionate, effectively reflecting the nuanced character traits and complex interpersonal connections. Avanti's unwavering determination as a mother is evident as she strives to protect her child from the repercussions of Dhairya's changed behavior.

The societal norms and inequalities that permeate their lives are also explored, showcasing how these factors can change a person's moral compass and lead to devastating consequences. The author successfully emphasizes the importance of goodness and challenges the notion that one's worth is determined by wealth or status.

The detailed narration immerses the reader in the lives of the lower class in India, providing a vivid portrayal of their dreams, sufferings, and the realities they face. The author's ability to evoke strong emotions and create visual imagery adds to the overall impact of the story.

While the book has its strengths, it also suffers from excessive exposition and repetition, which can hinder the pacing and make certain parts feel stagnant. A more concise and focused approach could have enhanced the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, Queen and King is a powerful novel with a compelling message. The characters of Avanti and Dhairya are well-developed, and their journey through love, loss, and the desire to protect their child resonates with the reader. Despite some minor shortcomings, the book effectively explores societal injustices and personal redemption, leaving a lasting impression on the reader's mind.

[Sameer Gudhate · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Indian literature, the theme of the relentless struggle against societal hardship and a mother's unwavering dedication to protecting her child is a recurring motif that resonates deeply with readers. Indian authors often portray the harsh realities faced by individuals within a complex social fabric, where poverty, discrimination, and societal constraints create immense challenges. Through their narratives, they shed light on the indomitable spirit of mothers who face adversity head-on, exhibiting remarkable strength, resilience, and selflessness to safeguard the well-being and future of their children. This theme captures the essence of the Indian experience, showcasing the depth of a mother's love and the extraordinary lengths she will go to ensure her child's survival, often becoming an emblem of hope and inspiration in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Queen & King by Nandini Gupta is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the harsh realities of two individuals, Avanti and Dhairya, who are trapped in a vicious cycle of societal hardship. This book takes readers on a journey filled with hope, heartache, and the lengths a mother is willing to go to protect her child. The story revolves around Avanti and Dhairya, burdened by their tumultuous pasts. Avanti, a resilient woman who has fought tooth and nail to make ends meet, and Dhairya, who has distanced himself from a troubled family by working at a bakery. When fate brings them together, they find solace in each other's presence, momentarily forgetting the struggles they face on a daily basis. Avanti becomes pregnant. Avanti becomes fiercely protective of her child's future. She refuses to let Dhairya's changed behaviour jeopardize the well-being of their baby. As conflicts arise and tensions escalate, Avanti faces a profound internal struggle. How far is she willing to go to shield her child from the storm brewing around them? And what sacrifices is she prepared to make?

Nandini Gupta has crafted a narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking. The characters come to life on the pages, and their flaws and struggles are portrayed with depth and authenticity. The author skillfully explores themes of love, resilience, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child. The book paints a realistic picture of the challenges faced by individuals trapped in cycles of poverty and societal constraints. The narrative is beautifully written, evoking a range of emotions from joy to heartache.

Overall, Queen & King is a compelling and poignant novel that will leave readers deeply moved. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by individuals caught in the clutches of societal struggles and the lengths; they will go to protect what they hold dear.

[Sufi (_.throne.of.books._) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Queen and King by Nandini Gupta is a thought provoking novel. The novel discuss the part of society who's sufferings we ignore many time even after seeing them and very well realising them . The book explores the lives of people from lower classes and make us understand their pains.

The book revolves around a Couple Namely Avanti and Dhairya. They were a sweet and lovely couple like any dream couple despite being from the lower classand backward society, being barely able to make up for two meals per day, they were living a happy life. Dhairya always supports Avanti in whatever she do despite the society questioning him, ' why is ge treating a women like this and they don't deserve it '. But as it is said in the book ''things aren't permanent'' everything changes in their life. Cracks started forming in their relationship after the birth of their child. Dhairya's behaviour towards Avanti changes. He got into wrong things and bad luck comes to their family. Due to all this tension, gap between them starts to increase.  As a result of toxic masculinity, attitude, prejudices, and the brutal side of society, what happens next represents a significant turning point.

After reading the book i realised many things, and one of them is that many people were not born criminals, but the society and situation make them to do the wrong things. This don't justify their doings. But atleast we can help them by not looking down them and ignoring whatever they're going through.

This is a well written book, character development is very strong. Author has done a great job with both the characters of Avanti and Dhairya, taking us into their past and let us understand the characters more deeply. I like how the story keeps shifting from present to past through Avanti's thoughts.

Author also tried some new things with the book. Like, I loved the way she used different font sizes to make the conversations more real, so that we can feel them in our head. Also one more thing she did is how she took us through days in there lives and not like things happening continously.

It's really a good book. Initially I was thinking of giving the book three stars because of its slow pacing and a little over explanatory and dragging writing but the end made up for that. After reaching the end I think every word she wrote was necessary to take us in the depth of the message she's trying to convey through this book.

The title could have been better and more relative to the book. But everything else is perfect.

I recommend this to each and everyone of you. No matter what genre and type of book you like. You must read this.

[The_D'S_bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

⏩ Tell me a story of a mother's love.

👑 Queen and King By Nandini Gupta is thought provoking yet a heart-wrecking story of a mother protecting her child.

👑 As we all believe, no one can protect a child better than her mother, and this book proves that.

👑 The story revolves around a caring mother, a dutiful wife but, most importantly, a woman trying hard to find herself in the cruel world.

👑 We are definitely moving to a better future, to a better world, but are we really moving forward? There are still places where being a girl is a crime, being independent is a crime, breathing as a girl is a crime.

👑 This story is one of those where Avanti tries to find a stable life for her "coming soon" baby with her husband Dhairya.

👑 Living in a world where being a girl is a crime, Avanti never had a roof of warm parents, while Dhairya fought every day for her mother, from an abusive father beating up her mother.

When they heard news of their baby, it seemed like they were stepping into a new world, having a wish to fill up their world with happiness for their new baby.

👑 But when a priest tells them that something bad or unfortunate will happen to them, their mind is filled with worries.

Yet they welcomed their baby "Kabir" into their world and home with welcoming hands like any other parents, but they didn't know that this would change everything in their lives.

👑 Something worse is yet to come.

👑 Avanti's world is crushed by her husband's suddenly changed behaviour, while it's difficult to survive in a world for her family where being poor, being from a lower cast, being a girl is more than doing a crime, when her own husband is against a girl child.

👑 What happened to her husband suddenly? What exactly is he hiding?

👑 This was one of the most powerful yet touching stories for me, revealing the ugly side of the world, even the world is reaching at moon, "thinking" of society will always be in gutter.

👑 We need more women like Avanti who knows her worth and respects herself than anyone who puts herself against wrong things, protecting her child.

👑 The twist at the end ( which I am not going to reveal here ) is a highlight of the story and a crucial point to turn the story upside down and the author did an excellent job on that.

👑 The rage I feel towards Dhairya's mother cannot be expressed in words.

👑 The favourite part of the story was where finally Avanti decides that enough is enough - I feel proud of her.

👑 An intense, gripping, thought provoking read !!

[Neer · Rating 1 out of 5]

𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘭. 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯'𝘵 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴. 𝘞𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴. 𝘖𝘳 𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴.⁣
 ⁣
Both Avanti and Dhairya's struggles knew no bounds. She sold newspapers and worked as a housekeeper, whereas Dhairya worked in a bakery to make both ends meet. Their paths crossed, they fell in love, and they got married. Avanti became pregnant, and the happiness of the couple reached cloud nine. They welcomed the baby, but Dhairya's behaviour completely changed after Kabir's arrival. How their lives are affected after this is what forms the crux of the story.⁣
 ⁣
The blurb hinted that the story would deal with one or more social issues. It does Indeed. I'd also predicted something after reading, 'How far will she go to protect her baby?' And my prediction was 100 percent correct. Books dealing with social issues have always attracted me, so I was excited to read this one. But my excitement turned into disappointment as I delved further into the book.⁣
 ⁣
Author Nandini Gupta had the right intentions, but her execution is not up to par. She served issues such as patriarchy, poverty, gender inequality, toxic parenting, female infanticide, domestic violence, etc. on the platter, but the dish got spilled all over the place. Things become extremely repetitive in nature. Almost every thought and emotion in Avanti is explained in great detail. Every incident happening with her is followed by a long chain of thoughts and, if not, a paragraph. This becomes a repetitive pattern too, and I was like “Here we go again". It was like the author wanted the reader to be spoonfed with the content. The overstretched narration shattered the pace of the book. There was not a single moment that forced me to close the book and think or just sit and finish the book in one go. It was like I was reading the script of an overdramatic Indian TV serial (only that Dhoomtanana Waali BG was missing). Bold and larger fonts are used whenever a character is speaking louder than normal. I found it creative in the beginning, but with time, it became repetitive too, just like everything else in the book, and started irritating me. I'm still unable to decipher why the book is titled Queen and King.⁣
 ⁣
I don't care what anyone thinks, but I didn't like the book. It had a potentially powerful plot but fell flat on its face in terms of execution. No offence, But I'll not recommend it to anyone.

[Sagar Naskar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review ~ 📚

Title : Queen & King
Author : Nandini Gupta

We all are very much familiar to the popular line,"The first impression is the last impression"- the cover page. It gives me the true feelings of the line. Firstly I was curious because of the title, so i picked this out then I fell in love with this book just after reading the first few lines and it turned out to be such a great and wonderful read. The cover page is very much attractive and eye pleasing and the title gives you a hint about the summary of the book.

A moving and compelling story, Queen & King by Nandini Gupta explores the lives of Avanti and Dhairya, two people with difficult pasts who find comfort in one another. They must face the hard truths of their situation and how it affects their lives as their relationship develops and they become parents.

Gupta depicts Avanti and Dhairya's hardships with skill, emphasizing the social constraints and the cyclical nature of their lives. The author's language is frank and passionate, reflecting the nuanced character traits and complex interpersonal connections. Avanti's tenacity as a mother is demonstrated by her desire to shield her child from the effects of Dhairya's altered behavior.

Queen & King explores love, sacrifice, and the depths to which a parent will go in order to safeguard their kid in a thought-provoking manner. The tale Nandini Gupta skillfully crafts draws readers in and envelops them in the characters' emotional journeys. The novel touches on issues of socioeconomic inequity, private secrets, and the fine line between parental obligations and personal aspirations.

This story was almost like watching a movie. Every scene was running inside my mind. The author's writing skill was the obvious reason behind this.Well written from start to end.This book is amazing and hard to believe the writing is excellent and plot will keep you absolutely hooked!

I heartily suggest Queen & King to people who value moving and thought-provoking stories. A engaging and deep reading experience is provided by Nandini Gupta's strong storytelling and well-developed characters. The book analyzes the fierce commitment and sacrifices made in the name of love and family in addition to shedding light on the hardships faced by people in difficult situations. The riveting book Queen & King will have a long-lasting effect on its readers.

⭐ Rating : 4.5/5 🌟⭐
⭐ Must Recommended 🌟

[Review with Sohini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the author Nandini Gupta’s previous work I was well acquainted with her narration and extremely optimistic about this book “Queen and King”. I would say this book is a wholesome entertainer. This tale can be a turning point for her in the writing world. The untold elements she's brought through her story are phenomenal.

This brilliant story is about Avanti and Dhairya who struggles daily to fit into the day-to-day setup but have come along a long path. Avanti’s father was hit by a car and passed away when she was small.
She had a disturbed childhood. Working at different households and wearing the used clothes of their wealthy daughters was all she had. When the tutor of those kids used to come she intentionally went to serve appetizers more and also stayed there cleaning the floor and all but for what? So that she could never miss out on gaining knowledge. While working in a bakery Avanti and Dhairya came closer and tied the knot. Soon enough they were blessed with a baby named Kabir. Well, beforehand the couple was informed with the foresight of one guru in a temple that the baby would be healthy and all will be fine but as soon as it comes it would bring some ill luck with it. Ignoring it to be some crap they were happy after the birth but soon enough their world would come crushing as some revelations will be made which were kept secret until then along with the different unshown faces of the characters.
✔️What secrets does their baby hold?
✔️What is Avanti hiding and scared of?
✔️Who was behind Dhairya’s sudden change of personality?
And more...

Well, this book has a lot to offer. It talks about how single-minded our society can be, how stereotypical societal issues have the power to alter people’s thoughts, male gender mindsets, the value of a girl child, domestic violence, and traumatized state of mind. Yes, it can be read just in 1-2 sittings but I would urge you to have patience as this is a thought-provoking book that needs time to look over and figure out. Writing a book needs a lot of research, processed thought, etc but once you start to read it you can easily realize these are just no fiction, they are the surrounding picturesque of everyday life.

Engaging and a must-recommended read. It has very small chapters which some way or the other helps and excites the reader to complete faster.
I was so convinced by the cover it successfully delivers the absolute chills that the readers are going to experience all through.

[Dalia (book_o_creativity) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

“Language fails us. Often. Words can never express deeply implanted emotions that have grown throughout the long years. There's always a massive gap between what we feel and what we want to say. And that gap is unfillable.”

When Avanti married Dhairya, they haven't had perfect lives, they had one thing common, poverty. While she battled for her bread everyday by cleaning tables, selling newspapers and sleeping in the roadside, Dhairya toiled himself at a bakery to earn his living. When the two met, they found comfort in each other's company forgetting that they're trapped in a vicious cycle that society has created for people like them. Dhairya was a role model for Avanti and Avanti the key to happiness for Dhairya. They gave a happy name to their love story and got married. But they both didn't know there was an impending doom lurking in their fate. Soon cracks emerged in their relationship and before both of them could do something, it turned into their worst nightmare. What happens when the prey and the predator role is reversed and a mother is threatened?

'Queen & King' is a domestic fiction, crime thriller that encompasses love, relationship, societal stigma and crime. Often the sheer lack of equality in the society and its ignorant glances push people at the lower strata to do unimaginable things, peer pressure and discrimination can crush one's body and soul. It can transform a person for the bad and often it's irreversible. This book captures a very good example of this phenomenon. It slowly entraps in the story, a bigger problem our society face with other related problems. The plot has potential, it raises crucial questions through the narrative of Avanti. It really made me ponder on her thoughts. I like her character, even though she did not have the privilege of education, she is an open-minded, forward thinker. Major shift can be noticed in the characters. Although the plot was on point the story has been dragged quite a lot, it was painfully slow at the beginning.

Coming to the writing style, it was good apart from being too much in the character's head. The change in font size to emphasize the decible of the said words was unnecessary for me. Although I liked the story, I was expecting something different from this book.

[Prayukta Padelkar · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝑫𝒐 𝒘𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒔? 𝑫𝒐 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒖𝒔? 𝑶𝒓 𝒅𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒖𝒔, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒐𝒐𝒎?"
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🎗💜 "Queen and King" Authored by @nandinig26 explores the journeys of protagonists Avanti and Dhairya, a married couple who had to overcome their tumultuous backgrounds and settle into a family full of bliss and affection. Avanti adeptly conquers the trials faced by destitution with being abandoned at an early age and working as a maid, while Dhairya, her spouse, has an egregious past that was influenced by his dad's obnoxious violence but he still tries to upswing himself into an idyllic spouse. Everything was perfect into their married life until the arrival of their child, Kabir. Following the baby's birth, both of their lives encounter a drastic shift, unveiling novel features and some of the worst facts of their distinct personalities.
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🎗💜 This book demonstrates both,the stereotyped nature of our culture as well as how oppressed women are in unhealthy relationships. The conflict of a regular guy to survive within our communities is the main subject of this novel. Also, in this narrative, particular emphasis is placed on issues including domestic assault, harassment, traumatized problems, impoverished circumstances, mainstream acceptance, and prejudices. The context of the book also constitutes to the resilient, compelling plot that sheds insights concerning the crucial subject of "Girl Child." There continues to be a widespread belief that sons are powerful and that only boys are capable of bringing renown to the household. And this is what counts into the diegesis, well depicted by the Author.
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🎗💜 Truly, an appreciation to the Author for the perfect assessment into so many social themes and portraying the characters so well in the book.The development of the characters throughout the novel, the language used in the book are well simplified and lucid. Really loved how the Author tries to deliver an important message through her piece of work. Overall, recommending this beautiful story to everyone out there!!

[SIDDA RAVITEJA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen & King: Each is Growing a Devil Within. It Takes One Devil to Punish Another by Nandini Gupta is a gripping and unsettling novel that explores the darker aspects of human nature. The story follows Avanti and Dhairya, two individuals who have faced their fair share of struggles. They find comfort in each other's company, but they are also trapped in a vicious cycle that society has created for people like them.

The novel is beautifully written, with a strong sense of atmosphere and suspense. Gupta skillfully leads the reader through the complex dance between a couple's ideals and society's standards. The book is full of memorable characters, and the plot is well-paced and engaging.

While Queen & King is a compelling story with intense emotions, it should be noted that it deals with some sensitive themes and may not be suitable for all readers. The book explores the lengths people may go to protect what they love, even if it means doing something they would never have thought themselves capable of.

Overall, Queen & King is a thought-provoking and disturbing novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. It is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and dark romance.

Here are some additional thoughts on the book:

The novel's title is a reference to the fact that both Avanti and Dhairya have a dark side that they are trying to suppress. The title also suggests that it takes one devil to punish another.
The novel explores the theme of revenge in a complex and nuanced way. Avanti and Dhairya both want to get revenge on those who have wronged them, but they also realize that revenge can be a dangerous and destructive force.
The novel is set in a small town in India, but the themes it explores are universal. The book is about the power of love, the nature of evil, and the choices we make in the name of revenge.
I would recommend Queen & King to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers, dark romance, and books that explore the darker aspects of human nature. It is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

[Narayani · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book: Queen and King
Author: Nandini Gupta
Genre: Fiction
..
My Rating: 3/5
⭐⭐⭐
..
Childhood exerts a profound impact on an individual's life, and when one endures a difficult upbringing, it indelibly shapes their future. Consider the plight of an abandoned child, and the unimaginable pain, insecurities, and emotional burden they carry as they grow older. It is no wonder that their past experiences and deep-seated insecurities can sometimes lead them down a path of malevolence.

In this compelling story, the lives of Avanti and Dhairya are marred by complex complications that profoundly impact their marriage. The author skillfully portrays the healing presence of Avanti in Dhairya's life, only to see it dissipate over time. This delicate balance of masculine energy and the inescapable lingering effects of past trauma is expertly depicted. It's a refreshing portrayal of a reality often overlooked in contemporary literature.

However, these recurring struggles ultimately undermine the couple's relationship, leading the plot to take an unexpected turn. The book delves into the true nature of relationships, the sacrifices made in the name of compromise, the intricacies of parent-child dynamics, and the extent to which we must accept bitter truths. The author's attention to detail and exceptional character development truly shine.

There were a few aspects that left me somewhat disappointed, such as certain instances of repetitiveness and unnecessarily elongated scenes. While the book did not keep me on the edge of my seat, the underlying message and themes the author chose to explore were truly remarkable. The finely crafted plot had me yearning to discover its ultimate resolution.

Overall, this book is a commendable piece of work. It offers a poignant glimpse into the reality of human relationships, the sacrifices we make, and the challenges of embracing harsh truths. Though not a gripping page-turner, its profound message and well-executed themes make it a worthwhile read.

[Chandra Sekhar · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Queen & King" is a book that offers a healthy understanding encounter, handling various significant subjects inside a solitary story. It fills in as a sign of the difficulties looked by people from devastated foundations and the cultural predispositions that sustain disparity. The story is heart wrenching and reveals insight into reality many individuals persevere in their regular routines. While the book succeeds in its depiction of Avanti and Dhairya's characters and the cultural issues they face.

The story captivating and mentally charged account that digs into the existences of Avanti and Dhairya, two individuals managing the brutal real factors of neediness and social requirements. The book digs into the intricacies of their process through convincing narrating and distinctive person depictions. It features the subjects of adoration, penance, and a parent's persistent craving to safeguard her kid no matter what.

This book is a gripping read which takes us on journey of harsh truth and the societal problems that are still prevalent. And when Avanti gets pregnant the conflicts and struggles ensue to protect the child.

Avanti starts to notice various modifications in Dhairya's behaviour after the introduction of Kabir. Dhairya appeared to be keeping a great deal of things from her. The general reason of the book was inclining toward male kids over young ladies. At the point when Avanti saw how emphatically established in man centric society her significant other's thoughts were, she understood that her existence with her better half and child was at serious risk. To realize what happened straightaway? You should peruse this book.

Overall, this book is an honourable piece of work. It offers a strong look into the truth of human connections, the penances we make, and the difficulties of embracing cruel bits of insight. However not a grasping exciting read, its significant message and first-rate topics make it a beneficial read.

I can give 4/5 for this book

[Shweta · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Queen and King" is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the lives of Avanti and Dhairya, two individuals struggling to make a respectful life for themselves and trying to break free from the fetters of class hierarchy.

Avanti and Dhairya are both products of difficult circumstances, fighting against the odds to create a better future. Avanti, having endured years of hardship and deprivation, finds solace in marriage with Dhairya's, seeking comfort and love in their relationship. However, as the cracks in their facade begin to emerge, we are exposed to their individual secrets and vulnerabilities.

The characters are well-developed and capturing the complexity of human nature. Avanti's fiery personality clashes with Dhairya's stubbornness, creating a volatile dynamic within their relationship. The author does a commendable job of portraying these conflicting traits and their impact on their child's well-being.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is its exploration of societal limitations and the struggles faced by individuals like Avanti and Dhairya. The vicious cycle they find themselves trapped in serves as a poignant commentary on the injustices prevalent in society. The author's depiction of their determination to protect their child from these circumstances evokes a strong sense of empathy from readers.

The plot is fast-paced and keeps readers engaged throughout. The narrative is filled with tension and suspense, as Avanti uncovers Dhairya's changed behavior and is forced to make difficult choices to safeguard her child's future.

Overall, "The Queen and King" is a captivating read that explores themes of love, sacrifice. Author effectively paints a vivid picture of the characters' struggles and the often harsh realities of their world. It is a poignant reminder that difficult circumstances should not define one's future, and that love can be both the strongest shield and the greatest vulnerability.

[Prajwal Shettigar · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the book titled "Queen & King”, the story delves deep into the lives of Avanti and Dhairya, two individuals who have known struggle and adversity from an early age. With compelling storytelling and vivid character portrayals, the book captures the essence of their tumultuous journey through love, loss, and the overpowering desire to protect their child at all costs.

The strength of "Queen & King" lies in its ability to delve into the depths of human emotions. Avanti's fierce determination to shield her child's future from the turmoil around them becomes the driving force behind her actions. Her character embodies both strength and vulnerability, making her relatable and compelling to readers. Dhairya, on the other hand, portrays the conflicting struggle between love and personal demons, highlighting the fragile nature of relationships in the face of adversity.

The narrative unfolds with gripping tension, leading readers through a series of unexpected twists and turns. The author masterfully crafts a story that keeps the reader engaged, invested, and emotionally connected to the characters.

One of the most poignant aspects of the book is its exploration of the impact of societal expectations on individuals from marginalized backgrounds. While "Queen & King" is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel, there are instances where the pacing slows down, and certain subplots could have been further developed. However, these minor drawbacks do not overshadow the overall impact of the story and the emotional resonance it evokes.

In conclusion, "Queen & King" is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go to protect their child. Nandini has skillfully weaved together themes of societal injustice and personal redemption, creating a story that tugs at the heartstrings and lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.

[Mandrita · Rating 3 out of 5]

‘Queen & King’ revolves around a married couple, Avanti and Dhairya. They aren’t quite well-off, which is apparent from their dialogues and lifestyle. The story is situated in a rural region of India, where gender roles and stereotyping is still ingrained in the mentalities of the inhabitants. Dhairya is portrayed to be different than them, but he seems to change under the influence of substance. The book upholds various major problems of the society, such as inequality, negligence of men’s mental health, strict gender roles, fragile male ego, and discrimination against girl child, domestic violence, substance abuse and entitlement. Both of the characters are shown to be flawed, but in their own ways. These topics have been portrayed quite accurately, so anyone looking to delve into such topics should definitely read this book. Both of them had suffered several childhood traumas, which they carried in well into their adulthood. Their life seemed to have been tough but tolerable, till Avanti gave birth to their son Kabir, after which everything seemed to take a sudden turn for the worse.
The author’s writing style was pretty lucid to me. One thing that was different from other books is the variation of font sizes used to depict variations in tones- this made it easier to read them in my mind and yet successfully captures how the characters must have said it aloud. The book has been divided into a number of short chapters, which makes it really easy to get through the book. I personally did not find the plot to be very interesting. It was enlightening, sure, but not something I would pick up again. Also, I did not find the title to be very fitting. Avanti and Dhairya belong to the impoverished strata of rural Indian society, so unless the author meant it sarcastically, the title doesn’t really justify the content. The story is quite emotional all throughout, and will make the readers feel what the characters go through at every step.

[Authorsdestination · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Queen and Kings" by Nandini Gupta is a beautifully narrated story that talks about the lives of two broken individuals, Avanti and Dhairya, who find solace, true love, and a sense of belonging in each other. This novel not only explores the profound connection between the protagonists but also sheds light on the prevailing myths and superstitions that persist in our modern society.

Through her vivid descriptions and emotive prose, the author brings the characters to life, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles, vulnerabilities, and ultimately, their triumphs.

Despite living in a supposedly modern society, the author addresses the sad reality that some people still hold onto archaic beliefs regarding the gender of a child. By incorporating this theme into the narrative, the author not only raises awareness but also encourages readers to question and challenge such notions.

The characters of Avanti and Dhairya are deeply compelling and relatable. Their journey is portrayed with authenticity and depth, highlighting their individual growth and the transformative power of love. The author skillfully portrays their emotional turmoil, vulnerabilities, and the healing that comes from finding love and a true home within each other.

The author effectively tackles the prevalent myths and superstitions that continue to persist in our society. By presenting these beliefs and their impact on the characters' lives, she encourages readers to reflect on the consequences of blindly following tradition and the importance of breaking free from such limiting mindsets.

In conclusion, "Queen and Kings" by Nandini Gupta is a testament to the power of love, and a reminder that true happiness can be found when we let go of societal expectations and embrace our authentic selves. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a poignant and inspiring tale that challenges the status quo and celebrates the triumph of the human spirit

[Sarthak Mohanty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A life of abundance.
A life without struggles.
A life that seems like a fairytale.

A life Avanti always craved for but, never had.
A life Dhairya could not even imagine in his wildest dreams.

Two strangers struggled to survive and make ends meet in a world full of luxuries. From cleaning the houses as a maid to selling newspapers, a young Avanti had done it all to survive without her parents. While working at a bakery, she meets Dhairya and as fate would have it, they both fall in love and tie the unbreakable knots.

The married couple had days full of love and nights full of hope when they were expecting their first child. Dhairya was a doting husband while Avanti, holding her broken dreams close to her heart was expecting a brighter future for their child. Yet again, fate had some other plans.

The child's birth took the relationship into uncharted territories. While Avanti being passionate about her child's future, slowly starts unraveling her secrets, Dhairya on the other hand, gradually trades his optimism for aggression.

Will it jeopardise the baby's future? Will the innocent child suffer the most? Will the parents give in to their demons? Or, will they join hands for the baby's future! What does life have in store for the three of them. The "Queen and King" will answer that.

"Queen and King" by author Nandini Gupta shows a mirror to society. While most of us live comfortable lives, there are many, who crush their dreams under the weight of helplessness. For them, just being able to get by is also an achievement. Poverty, lack of opportunities, societal norms, all of it paves way for a darker future for them which holds nothing but an eternal void. Many powerful themes have been merged together while bringing this novel to life. Sometimes, it does feel slow but, when the secrets start revealing themselves, like multiple layers, one after the other, the book becomes magnetic in nature. Overall, an impactful read!!

[Dhivya Bavananthi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is an emotional novel which portrays the complexity in the life of Avanti and Dhairya, the protagonists of this novel. They build a life filled with love and happiness. But their past hard life disturbs their present and they are struggling to overcome it. The author has created such an amazingly complex characters and described with her beautiful narration that how they faced all the challenges and so it is a thought-provoking and impactful story to all the readers dealing with the human emotions.

The resilience of Avanti character was high-lighted throughout the story which is influencing the readers. The transformation of Dhairya from a troubled past into an ideal husband is heartwarming and gives an in-depth value to the story.

The book effectively explores the life of couple's relationship after the child-birth. It depicts all the complexities and sacrifices that are involved in a parenthood. It delves deeper into the profound love and unwavering determination of a mother to protect her child even in a danger situation too.

It looks like an intentional story that addresses some of the biggest issues India faces. The story is deeply touching and interesting with an intricate plot. The characters are authentic and the writing style is powerful. The fascinating structure of the narrative make this book an engaging experience.

The characters are desperate to rise beyond their personal demons with consumed and haunted by the past, and simply survive in the hopes of one day finding contentment and happiness. These complexities made some difficulties in the initial narration and also sometimes the ongoing continuous monologue dragged down. But the author made all the chapter names so interestingly and it pulls us as fast as to reach the real day to intrigue what was happened.

With a well-developed raw characters, " Queen and King" gave a profound message.

[Cayley Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book “Queen and King” has been written by Nandini Gupta. The book is very well written and the author has tried to come up with a very different concept. The narration is medium paced, with a smooth flow. Life is full of surprises and this story is an apt one. I loved - how author showcased Avanti’s fighting spirit towards all odds in her life, how the hard days gave a kick-start to a journey ahead.

The story is based on Avanti and Dhairya, two individuals who have struggled a lot from a very young age and worked various jobs to survive. Avanti has sold newspapers, cleaned houses and waited tables as having no family left her no choice and life was hard for her from the very beginning. On the other point Dhairya has also struggled a lot in order to keep up on his own and stay away from his traumatic family. It’s a saying that a person with scars can only feel the pain of the other person’s scars. Exactly how Avanti and Dhairya met, tortured by the past they found comfort in each other and decided to be together thereafter. The also had a baby and then as the responsibilities started emerging so does the differences too. Both Avanti and Dhairya had secrets of their own in this relationship this was creating differences which in the end was going to affect the child only. As you proceed in the story you will realise it is a rollercoaster of emotions and how Avanti is ready to sacrifice everything for her baby. It will show you where immense love takes you and how the society has created a trap for us.

The language employed throughout the book is evocative and vivid, heightening the sense of emotional urgency. The author expertly captures the essence of the thriller genre, employing descriptive prose that paints a vivid picture of intense emotions.

Talking about the title of the book it is really appropriate and the cover of the book is a masterpiece. The book is recommended to everyone.

[Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avanti and Dhairya's lives undergo a dramatic transformation following the arrival of their son, Kabir. However, deep within each of them lies a well-guarded secret, unknown to the other. When these secrets are finally exposed, chaos ensues, forever altering their relationship.
The cast of characters is minimal, allowing for a realistic and relatable portrayal of their personalities. Avanti's childhood experiences are heart-wrenching, while Dhairya's conflicting emotions, transitioning from love to hatred towards Avanti and their child, resonate with the societal influences that have shaped his worldview.
Despite hailing from similar backgrounds, the author skillfully illustrates the disparity between expectations and reality, highlighting the inevitable disconnect between dreams and actuality.
The narrative delves into the lives of the less fortunate, exploring themes of abusive relationships and society's bias towards male children. It unflinchingly exposes the oppression faced by women within households, the burden placed upon them to bear male heirs, and the pervasive mistreatment they endure. Avanti's mental health struggles manifest as frequent hallucinations, which she grapples with, unsure of how to seek help or manage such episodes.
Adding a unique dimension to the storytelling, the font size varies, aligning with the characters' tone of speech. Larger fonts denote louder voices, enhancing the reader's immersion in the narrative.
The only aspect that slightly hampers the story's pace is the extensive descriptions and repetitive actions exhibited by the characters.
Overall, this book sheds light on the persistent societal evils that continue to plague certain segments of our population, exposing the harrowing reality faced by women and girl children who bear the brunt of abuse and discrimination.

[Chinmayee Sahu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the blurb and picked the book but that was quite not like the King and the Queen living in a palace.....happily everafter.... But of course there is a king and a queen not a "real one" but they have a mysterious, thrilling and captivating story.


Unlike others they too have dreams.
They too aspire to live a comfortable life.
They also want to give their child a better life.

Avanti , grew up in the streets , orphan,did many odd jobs to fend herself since childhood .

Dhairya, brought up in a poor family to a violent and a drunk father. His father beats his mother often which Dhairya never liked. He wants to change everything and live a peaceful life.

Avanti and Dhairya love each other and decide to get married. They are having a dreamy life despite of poverty. They are happy with each other. Both of them are working. Avanti gets pregnant and both of them are excited to welcome their child.

Life took a u- turn when the child is born. Not immediately but gradually and drastically. Avanti has her own secrets and Dhairya lost himself mentally and invited many troubles. So many things brewed between them. This affected their child the most.

The writings are simple and mostly conversational either between them or with themselves. The conversation mostly took the characters to their past and connect them with the present. The instances and the other few characters that are placed are perfect. The author@nandinigupta hooked me till the end of the book.In fact I was so tempted that I read the last chapter in the middle but still couldn't comprehend so read every single word.

This book can be a great companion in a monsoon weekend ....grab your coffee alongwith the book and enjoy the monsoon.

Well guys people do ask me what you learn from a non fiction book. Its a waste 😅....really...do comments what you learn and help me argue better😝😝

[Rimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review:
If you're a thriller lover the quotes on the cover page is probably enough to attracts you to the book. Just like me, and also the title.
" Each is growing a devil within;
It takes one devil to punish another."

And then the book starts with the lines -
" Blood drips from the knife as I stare into his eyes for the last time. I'm told death is a scary thing. Today, both of us are scared."

And then we goes ninety days back in past to see the events and incidents which resulted to that situation. But it told as a slice of life, with the little incidents that happened then, which seems very simple and insignificant but at the same time has important to our main protagonists Avanti and Dhariya.

Avanti and Dhariya are two common people, trying to get by their day to day life and also suffering from their pasts. And some secrets they both are hiding. They meet each other, they find comfort each other and soon they become happily married couple, as much happy as the couple can be in their situations. But soon everything starts to change after Avanti gives birth to a baby boy.

This is a gripping, captivating, suspenseful at the same time very emotional read. The way the author portrays the characters and the pain they are going is really touching and too much at times. As for the suspense the author keeps it intact tiil the very end, with lots of cliffhanger short chapters that will make you flip the pages faster.

The structure of this thriller story is quite unique, cause I can't remember if I have read any , writing in this style. But incredible in every sense. I enjoys the story even though at times I got frustrated with the delaying of the truth. Overall at end I will still recommend it to thriller lovers. But please check the trigger warnings before delving into it.