Varahas Vengeance

The Battle of Vathapi #2

by Arun Krishnan

SEVENTH-CENTURY INDIA. A GRIM STRUGGLE FOR SURVIVAL UNFOLDS. WILL THE PALLAVAS BRAVE THE CHALUKYA FURY, OR BE SWEPT AWAY BY THE RELENTLESS TIDE OF HISTORY?

After months of setting their plan in motion, three gallant Pallava captains march forward, driven by King Narasimhavaraman's vow to avenge their clan's honour. In response, the indomitable Chalukya King Pulikeshi launches a fierce counterattack, aided by his brother, Kubja Vishnuvardhana.

Backed by their powerful allies, the Chalukyas spare no effort in their attempts to decimate the Pallava army, ambushing the enemy on both land and sea. The very survival of the Pallavas hangs in the balance. Can they withstand the unbridled force unleashed by the resurgent Chalukyas or will they succumb to the overwhelming might of their adversaries? Can they rally their defences before all is lost?

The second volume of the adrenaline-fueled saga that began with Nandi's Charge, unfolds in riveting detail in Varaha's Vengeance, taking readers on a thrilling journey through one of the most exciting periods of Indian history.

Genres: Historical Fiction

421 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 16, 2024

About the author

Dr. Arun Krishnan has studied and lived in different cities across India, USA, Singapore and Japan, before putting down roots in Bangalore. He started off with a degree in Engineering and a doctorate, and went on to work in IT, High performance computing, Bioinformatics, computational biology and HR analytics. He has worked at various corporations, research institutes and also in academia as an Assistant Professor of Computational Biology. And then, just to shake things up, Arun went for an MBA and turned entrepreneur. He is a polyglot and is conversant in Tamil, English, Hindi, Bengali, Japanese and Kannada. He loves to sing and plays the guitar, keyboard and percussion instruments. He is also an amateur historian and enjoys visiting historical places. While he has over fifty articles in journals, conferences and book chapters, he has just written his first work of fiction.

Reviews

[Yamini · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in The Battle of Vathapi series takes us deeper into the everchanging power dynamics of southern India. I found that after riveting through the complex names and list of characters in Nandi's Charge, I had a slightly better hold on the story in this book. The pacing of the story is smooth as it transitions from the end of book 1 to the aftermath of those events.

This tale of the 7th century is perfect for fans of historical fiction who wish to leave no stone unturned as the author delves into the depths of politics, conspiracy and attacks. The book is pretty audience-specific and would recommend my fellow readers to gauge a little background about the actual history and geography related to this time period to better understand the dynamics of the story.

Thank you @harpercollinsin and @authorarunkrishnan for the ARC copy.
Genre: #historicalfiction #india
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️

#varahasvengence

[Utkrisht Fella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A solid follow-up to The Battle of Vathapi! Varaha's Vengeance dives deeper into the historical and mythological tapestry, continuing the thrilling saga with engaging characters and a compelling plot. The pacing is excellent, keeping you hooked from start to finish as the stakes escalate. While it's part of a series, it manages to build on the previous book's foundation while offering enough fresh intrigue to stand on its own. Fans of historical fiction with a mythological twist will definitely enjoy this one!

[Rohan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating adventure

I came across the first book of this series Nandi's charge just before it was released. As an admirer of historical fictions I have read a bunch of books in this genre including the books written by The Great Kalki. And as this series revolves around the same events which were the basis of his Sivagamiyin Sapatham I was excited. Yet I tempered my excitement a little as the magic of Kalki's books is the exception rather than the norm. Well I was wrong guys. The books simply blew me away. The breakneck pace, the captivating characters and intense drama contributed to a thrilling read. But then began the long wait for it's sequel.
After almost 3 years As I started reading Varah's Vengeance I was again cautious to temper my expections. Lighting never strikes twice I thought and I was proven wrong again. After reading this book I put forth my humble opinion that Mr. Arun Krishan is probably the most prolific historical fiction writer out there today. This book cements the status of this series as one of the best written in this genre. The book starts after a few weeks after the events of the lasts one. Our beloved characters go through new adventures. New characters are introduced. Stakes are higher. The pawns on the board are finally moving. The pacing is relentless. The character development is top notch. What stands out most is the author's ability to make these characters relatable. Caught of in the whirlwind of events, they go through trials and tribulations. Some of them face the dilema of choosing between their duty and their feelings. The classic dharm sankat scenarios, be it Elango's trepidation to leave Sanghamitra behind for duty or be it Indumati's ordeal, every moment in this book is earned. The battle sequences and there are quite a few of them are remarkably written and never feel repetitive. The author has a way of depicting the battle scenes vividly from the point of view of certain characters while also highlighting their inner turmoils and musings. This adds another layer to the already awesome story. Well I can go on and on. There is nothing to criticize here. If I have to nitpick then I would say I would have liked to see the relationship of Muthuvel and

[Book_withquotes · Rating 5 out of 5]

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In seventh-century India, the Pallavas confront the relentless onslaught of the Chalukyas, risking annihilation in a grim struggle for survival. As three courageous Pallava captains march forward driven by a vow of honour, the indomitable Chalukya King Pulikeshi launches a fierce counterattack alongside his brother Kubja Vishnuvardhana. Ambushed on land and sea, the Pallavas face imminent peril, their very existence hanging in the balance. Can they withstand the overwhelming force of their adversaries, or will they be swept away by history’s relentless tide? “Varaha’s Vengeance” continues the gripping saga, immersing readers in the thrilling drama of ancient India’s tumultuous battles.

This book concretes the situation with this series as one of the most outstanding written of this kind. Whether depicting the bedlam of the fight, the mind-boggling ruses of court legislative issues, or the unobtrusive subtleties of growing sentiment, the creator’s narrating ability radiates through in everything about. I can nearly encounter when the conch shells are blown, strongholds are seized, war elephants are ready and residents are planning for the conflict. This book superbly depicts Elango, Kannan, and Muthuvel who proceed with their process by battling obstacles, making new companions, overcoming foes, and experiencing passionate feelings.

The story streams without a hitch, regardless of the numerous players that make up this verifiable fiction. Never will you feel exhausted, not in any event, when various clusters of troopers from various realms sit and hang tight for activity. Love how connections have been portrayed… be it companions, friends, or darlings. The book is pretty crowd-explicit and would prescribe my kindred perusers to check a little foundation about the genuine history and geology connected with this period to more readily figure out the elements of the story.

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

I eagerly anticipated diving into this book as soon as I finished the first part of this series and I'm more than pleased that it lived up to my expectations. Continuing the epic saga introduced in part one, the author leads us further into the enthralling journey filled with wars, espionage, and a pervasive sense of melancholy.
The depth of research undertaken by the author is evident throughout the narrative, with vividly depicted scenes and well-developed characters springing to life on the page. Whether portraying the chaos of battle, the intricate machinations of court politics, or the subtle nuances of budding romance, the author's storytelling prowess shines through in every detail. The authenticity of the dialogue and interactions between characters further enhances the immersive experience, making it feel as though we are living among them.
The depiction of war scenes and their aftermath, as well as the strategic preparations leading up to them, is particularly captivating, demonstrating the author's extensive knowledge and meticulous research on the subject matter. The intricacies of conspiracies, setbacks, and battles propel the narrative forward and kept me on the edge of my seat.
Despite the abundance of characters, the narrative remains easily navigable, aided by a helpful list of characters and a welcome addition of maps. The inclusion of footnotes providing meanings and explanations of terms used throughout the book proved to be immensely helpful.
The brisk pacing ensures there's never a dull moment, with each chapter leaving readers eager for more. The gripping cliffhanger has now left me impatient for the next instalment!
History buffs and fiction enthusiasts alike will find much to enjoy in this well-researched, fast-paced thriller. For fans of Kalki’s work, this is a must-read that shouldn't be missed.

[Tanushri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Varaha's Vengeance is second book in the trilogy, Battle of Vathapi series. The first book was Nandi's Charge. It was fictionalized version of incidents leading to the battle of Vathapi (now called Badami) in 641-642 CE which happened between Chalukyas and Pallavas.

In the first book, Pallavas were gathering information, thier allies and preparing for the war. The commander of the Pallavas kingdom sent three of his best captains in disguise under leadership of their king Narasimhavaramn to three directions. The three captains have done thier duties as directed and gathered all the information. Now, in this second book, the plan is implemented and executed. Which means war. The Chalukyas respond to their war cry by launching counter attacks led by the Chalukyan king Pulikeshi along with thier allies.

The author has done a commendable job explaining the war scenarios and the scenes. I can almost experience when the conch shells are blown, forts are seiged, war elephants are prepared and citizens are preparing for the war. The characters are meticulously sourced and used skillfully. The part were commanders were seeing there last part of the day was described so beautifully that all the scenes were running on my mind!

Earlier historical genre was not my cup of tea, but with this book I have started reading a new genre and I am glad i did!

To read a more detailed review click on my blog:
https://wp.me/peahYo-3C

[Khushbu Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Varaha’s Vengeance by Arun Krishnan is the second book in the Battle of Vathapi series. This book is a continuation of the book The Nandi’s Charge. The first book ends with Elango, Kannan, and Muthuvel reaching their destinations after fighting many hurdles. This book depicts the Chalukyas' response to the challenge thrown by Pallava.
This book wonderfully describes Elango, Kannan, and Muthuvel who continue their journey by fighting hurdles, making new friends, defeating enemies, and falling in love.
King Narasimhavaram the Pallava king is busy building temples on one side and on the other side is planning to attack Chalukya king Pulikeshi. He sent Elango to King Harsha in the north, Muthuvel to King Manavamma in Lanka, and Kannan to create some trouble in the Ganga kingdom.
When Chalukyan king Pulikeshi discovered it, he invited his allies Ganga king Srivikrama, the Pandya king Jayanthavarman, and the Lanka king Tribhuvana to Aryapura. Here King Pulikeshi discussed political and war strategies against the Pallava king.

What happens when two powerful kingdoms collide on war ground?

Read the full review and summary on my blog. Link is given in the bio.

[Ambica Gulati]

This sequel to Nandi’s Charge: Battle of Vathapi is equally gripping. Arun Krishnan keeps the reader on the edge with a well-woven narrative. The USP of this tale is the attention to detail. Krishnan is meticulous in his research and giving shape to the characters. Their conversations and emotional expressions bring them alive. The narrative flows smoothly, despite the many players that make up this historical fiction. Simplifying the process for the reader are the maps and list of names at the beginning.

The three spies, Elango, Muthuvel and Kannan, are now in love, but their commitment to the cause and the battle remains firmly embedded in their heads and hearts. Imagining an era of kings and deeply-entrenched loyalties is perhaps not the easiest of things, given the fact that values and principles change over the centuries.

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

One Liner: Sustains the thrills of book one

07th Century Bharat

The three Pallava captains have completed the first stage of their missions, driven by King Narasimhavaraman’s vow. The Chalukya King Pulikeshi, with his brother’s help, launches a counterattack.

The Chalukyas will stop at nothing to destroy the Pallava army. Things just got a lot worse for people and the soldiers. Can the Pallava army survive and fight back, or will the dynasty succumb to the Chalukya force?

The story comes in omnipresent third-person POV.

My Thoughts:

This book takes off where Nandi’s Charge ended (a few weeks later). It is not a standalone and should not be read out of order.

NGL, I was excited and wary of reading this one. What if it wasn’t as good as the previous book? Fortunately, I could set my worries aside once the story began.

The book has a steady pace and sustains the momentum throughout. At no point will you feel bored, not even when different batches of soldiers from different kingdoms sit and wait for action. There’s action even when there’s no action.

As the title suggests, this one has the Chalukya kingdom out for revenge. Given its extensive army and near-unlimited supply of resources, you can guess how tense the situation would be.

Apart from pure warcraft and statecraft, we also see betrayal, backstabbing, moral dilemmas, ethical debates, and much more. What does one do when the lines blur?

Like book one, there’s a list of characters at the beginning neatly categorized according to their kingdoms and roles. Apart from the basic map, we also get two little illustrations detailing the tricky settings. Of course, the descriptions are clear enough to visualize the events, even without the illustrations.

My favorite captains – Elango, Kanan, and Muthuvel are right in the middle of the action and danger. The ladies (love) do their bit (Indumati’s arc is terrific) and stand out strong. I’m not happy with the stereotypical portrayal of the queens (pampered dramatic women), but since they have very minor roles, I wasn’t too annoyed.

We have some new characters like Thaamarai (she is a firebrand), Venkata, Anjeneya, Jabali, etc. Each of them asserts their presence with definite characterizations. Of course, we see incompetence, arrogance, and slimness in some. That makes the characters quite realistic.

I really want to see the author’s murder board… oops, storyboard. Keeping so many tracks straight is not easy! It needs a dozen color-coded threads and a huge bunch of sticky notes. Still, once you get into the flow, nothing matters. You keep turning the pages to see what happens.

The chapter titles are mild spoilers, which I don’t mind. Those are necessary to keep the details straight.

We have more battle scenes in this one (book #3 might have a lot more). I like how they felt similar to the scenes from Mahabharata. I’ve been reading the Yudha (war) Parvas for the last few months, so the whole thing feels familiar and just as exciting. However, what I love the most are the scenes where captains follow the rules of yudha dharma and teach their soldiers the importance of abiding by these.

One teeny thing that struck me as odd was the presence of tomatoes in the 7th-century Bharat. From what I know, tomatoes didn’t arrive on the land until after the 15th century, and even then, these weren’t a favorite. Many people from my grandparents’ generation don’t use tomatoes much, and some don’t eat them at all. Anyhoo, that’s a minor issue and has nothing to do with the major plot.

The book ends on a serious cliffhanger. Gasp! I hope book #3 doesn’t take too much time. The title is mentioned, so hopefully, it won’t take a year. On that note, I hope the last book has an orange or brown cover. It would go well with the title.

To summarize, Varaha's Vengeance is a fast-paced and worthy continuation of the previous book. It has action, humor, romance, drama, and a bit of everything to keep you hooked from the first page.

Thank you, Blogchatter, author Arun Krishnan, and publisher HarperCollins India, for a copy of the book.

[Preity · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Varaha's Vengeance," Arun Krishnan masterfully continues the captivating saga initiated in "Nandi's Charge," the first volume of the Battle of Vathapi series. Seamlessly building upon the narrative groundwork laid in its predecessor, Krishnan navigates readers through the turbulent landscape of the Chalukyas and Pallavas era, where the clash of empires dictates the course of history.
Krishnan's narrative prowess shines as he intricately weaves together the threads of ancient warfare, enveloping readers in the cacophony of battle and the quieter moments of introspection. His descriptive prose serves as a portal to a bygone era, where notions of honor and duty collide amidst the chaos of the battlefield.
A hallmark of "Varaha's Vengeance" lies in its well-rounded characters. Krishnan breathes life into both male and female protagonists, allowing them to undergo profound growth throughout the narrative. Whether it's the valorous exploits of Sangmitra or the tender exchanges between Elango and Indu, each character's journey resonates with emotion and authenticity, underscoring the diverse roles women played in ancient societies.
Beyond the battlefield, Krishnan delves into the intricate realm of political intrigue and statecraft, offering readers a glimpse into the ruthless pursuit of power and the profound sacrifices it entails. Amidst the maneuverings of kings and ministers, the human toll of war remains palpable, a testament to the courage and resilience of soldiers on both sides.
Krishnan's meticulous research infuses every page of "Varaha's Vengeance" with historical authenticity, seamlessly blending factual accuracy with compelling storytelling. Whether elucidating the intricacies of siege warfare or unraveling the complexities of diplomatic negotiations, the author's attention to detail enriches the reading experience, transporting readers to a vividly realized ancient world.
While "Varaha's Vengeance" is undoubtedly enriched by its connection to the broader series, it stands as a compelling work of historical fiction in its own right. With its brisk pace, tantalizing twists, and well-drawn characters, this book is certain to enthrall readers across genres. For aficionados of adventure, romance, and political intrigue, "Varaha's Vengeance" offers a captivating journey into the past, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Battle of Vathapi saga.

[Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Arun Krishnan presents another compelling tale in the exciting sequel to "Nandi's Charge: Battle of Vathapi," keeping readers captivated till the finish. Set in the seventh century, the drama continues the tumultuous saga of the Pallavas and Chalukyas, with youthful King Narasimhavarman struggling to carry on his father's legacy amidst political intrigue and looming bloodshed.
"Varaha's Vengeance: The Battle of Vathapi Book 2 continues where its predecessor left off, diving further into the complexities of espionage and strategic warfare. As the Pallavas undermine their opponents' preparations, emotions rise and relationships are challenged in the heat of combat. Krishnan's great attention to detail brings the story to life, painting a vivid picture of ancient India and its complicated web of loyalties and conflicts.

One of the story's noteworthy aspects is Krishnan's dedication to realism, as seen by his extensive research and subtle characterization. From the characters' private talks to the grandeur of military tactics, every detail of the novel is masterfully designed to transport readers to the Pallava and Chalukya worlds. Maps and character lists help readers navigate the narrative, offering a smooth reading experience despite the story's wide breadth.

Despite the epic conflicts and political machinations, the personal travels of the three spies—Elango, Muthuvel, and Kannan—remain at the centre of the story. Their unshakable dedication to duty and honour, despite the obstacles they endure, gives depth and emotional relevance to the plot. In a fight against the Pallavas and their allies, King Pullikeshi must balance professionalism, moral responsibilities, and emotional responses. The story investigates the ethical issues of conflict and humanitarian action, emphasising the fragile balance between protagonists and villains. It is an engaging read for people interested in India's civilizational history, including subjects such as governance, warfare, and moral behaviour.

As the trilogy progresses, Krishnan expertly tackles themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, encouraging readers to consider the ageless intricacies of human nature and the lingering legacy of ancient battles.

[Shweta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arun Krishnan writes a compelling historical fiction book called Varaha's Vengeance, which takes place in seventh-century India. The two strong kingdoms fighting for supremacy and dominance—the Pallavas and the Chalukyas—are at odds in a bloody war for survival. The Pallava captains continue where Nandi's Charge left off in this book, charging ahead to get revenge on those who have wronged their clan's honour. Under the resolute leadership of King Narasimhavaraman, the Pallavas set out on a treacherous expedition to face their enemies. But the Pallavas are about to be destroyed until the Chalukya King Pulikeshi and his brother Kubja Vishnuvardhana launch a powerful counterattack.


The vivid depiction of this turbulent era in Indian history by Arun Krishnan is superb. Action-packed battles, political intrigue, and forged and shattered alliances abound throughout the story. The book is full of examples of the author's meticulous attention to detail and thorough research, which gives readers a rich and engaging experience.

With every turn and twist, the story's unrelenting pace keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The chaos and ferocity of ancient combat are captured in the vivid descriptions of the battle scenes. Furthermore, the author skillfully combines several tales to provide readers with a thorough grasp of the political scene and the different forces at work. Varaha's Vengeance is an exciting and painstakingly researched historical book that immerses readers in an intriguing period of Indian history. Because of Arun Krishnan's skill at narrative and his writing style, the book is impossible to put down. Historical fiction enthusiasts will enjoy this second book in the series.

[Khushi Rungta · Rating 4 out of 5]

"SEVENTH-CENTURY INDIA. A GRIM STRUGGLE FOR SURVIVAL UNFOLDS. WILL THE PALLAVAS BRAVE THE CHALUKYA FURY, OR BE SWEPT AWAY BY THE RELENTLESS TIDE OF HISTORY?"

The second installment of The Battle of Vathapi series is now here - Varahas Vengeance.

The first book, Nandi's Charge, was a complete page turner introducing us to South Indian history. As I had said previously, I did use the time in between to research more about the Pallavas and Chalukyas. And hence I was all set for the new book. Which by the way is an equally exciting read. You won't feel a disconnect anywhere in the book.

What I really liked about the book is how it delved more into the social and psychological aspects. The emotions and dilemmas of the main characters as well as the societal feelings at large, took a centre stage for me in this book. Definitely the politics and war centric scenes are there, but to see the detailing of the characters who contributes to our Indian historical legacy, was a rich experience that author has provided.

Once again, the writing style is very smooth, making it a possibile read for everyone. If you are a history enthusiast, you'd like it more. With the help of maps and footnotes, the book becomes accessible as well as for readers like me, it become a beautiful add on to my collection.

[Neelabh Pratap Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Varaha's Vengeance: The Battle of Vathapi Book 2" by Arun Krishnan is a gripping continuation of the epic saga set in seventh-century India. The novel follows three Pallava captains as they strive to uphold their clan's honor against the fierce Chalukya King Pulikeshi. Arun Krishnan's vivid descriptions and meticulous historical detail bring the era to life, capturing the intensity of battle and the complexity of the characters' motivations.

The story's pacing keeps readers engaged, with a compelling mix of grand battles and personal struggles. Arun balances historical exposition with an accessible narrative, making the book a thrilling read for both history enthusiasts and fans of historical fiction. This sequel not only lives up to the promise of the first book but also deepens the saga, offering a rich and immersive experience.

[Mili Das · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a chunky book of the first part The Nandi's charg (544 pages), this is Varaha's Vengeance is a little short and nice size as a book in this historical series (400+ pages).
It's a story of valor, love, redemption, rage, dedication.

The enigmatic ambience is still going on in the second part. The majestic writing style swiftly takes you to the riveting saga of Indian history which has happened but never been documented as lavishly as it is now.

All characters are revealed now with their position, and firmly rooted to the plot with their background stories. With subplots this second part feels more interesting, an emotional rollercoaster, and unfolds various emotional aspects of life.
Kannan, Sadiyan, Mutthuvel, Elango, becomes prominent and relatable. Lots of things happened in their lives and a lot of things are yet to happen, eagerly waiting for the next part :)

Any new book are you waiting for

[Sathya Narayani · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in The Battle of Vathapi series takes us deeper into the everchanging power dynamics of southern India. I found that after riveting through the complex names and list of characters in Nandi's Charge, I had a slightly better hold on the story in this book. The pacing of the story is smooth as it transitions from the end of book 1 to the aftermath of those events.
This tale of the 7th century is perfect for fans of historical fiction who wish to leave no stone unturned as the author delves into the depths of politics, conspiracy and attacks. The book is pretty audience-specific and would recommend my fellow readers to gauge a little background about the actual history and geography related to this time period to better understand the dynamics of the story.

[Raghunath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Varaha’s Vengeance - Book 2 Of Arun Krishnan’s Vathapi Trilogy takes off, literally, from where Book 1 ends. Expanding on the characters, we see the Chalukyans, Pandyas, Lankans and other allies come out strongly. Travelling through geographies, the author keeps us engrossed and wondering who the eventual winner of the WAR is going to be and if Mamalla will get the revenge he sought out to achieve. On to Simha’s Roar next.

[Anand Menon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the second book just as much as the first, strongly recommend it to anyone who loves a good story. A lovely mix of action (in terms of the prep for war) and emotions. Very heart warming and touching. . Love the way relationships have been depicted... be it friends, peers, lovers. Amazing work. So looking forward to the third and final book.

And the Caveat stays, the author is a dear friend, that bias notwithstanding thoroughly enjoyed the book and can't wait for the third

[Shazzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

No middle book syndrome here. Thrilling!

[shenoyreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating - 3.75🌟

[Ajay Krishnan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read. Very easy language. Continuation of Nandi's Charge. Carries the tempo and has a very exciting end which will make you go for the finale book instantly.

[Ashish Iyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arun Krishnan's 'Varahas Vengeance', the second book in The Battle of Vathapi Series, offers a breathtakingly captivating blend of history, political intrigue, and suspense.

The author's world-building is remarkable, immersing readers in the rich tapestry of Ancient Bharat's landscape and culture.

The characters are masterfully crafted. The narrative, multi-perspective and tightly woven, unfolds with heart-pounding action sequences that kept me on the edge of my seat! Eagerly waiting for 3rd part.