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Batshit
Twenty-something Pia Bhandari has the ideal life – or so it seems. As long as she puts on a happy face, no one is any the wiser about the sinister voices in her head. Not her boyfriend Raghav, or her soon-to-be-married younger sister Khushi, her long-time psychiatrist Dr Agarwal, her father Ajit or even her mother Neeta, who is otherwise obsessed with controlling her daughter’s life.
But Pia’s demons follow her wherever she goes. One yellow-eyed demon in particular. Feral and bloodthirsty, it threatens to rip through Pia’s life, leaving a murderous trail in its wake. Hurtling between the opulent kothis of GK-2 to the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms, this twisted tale about a Delhi girl’s fight against the dark forces is about to get batshit .
But Pia’s demons follow her wherever she goes. One yellow-eyed demon in particular. Feral and bloodthirsty, it threatens to rip through Pia’s life, leaving a murderous trail in its wake. Hurtling between the opulent kothis of GK-2 to the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms, this twisted tale about a Delhi girl’s fight against the dark forces is about to get batshit .
216 pages, Paperback
Published February 15, 2023
1 person is currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Kritika Kapoor
3 books2 followersDelhi girl, cat lady and zombie-novel-aficionado Kritika Kapoor currently lives in Pune and works as Assistant Editor for Delhi Times, Times of India. During her over a decade-long career at TOI, which includes a four-year stint as the editor of Goa Times, she has written about topics ranging from art and literature to cinema and pop culture. 'Batshit' is her first novel. Followed by 'Wolfish'.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 10, 2023
Kritika Kapoor's Batshit is a book that mixes social satire with horror, along with some discussion of mental health and complex mother-daughter relationships.
Pia Bhandari is rich and moderately successful at her job. She has a boyfriend her mother approves of, but he wouldn't propose marriage, and Pia knows that he is cheating. Pia herself isn't sure of what she wants, or even who she is, and things come to head when she has a total breakdown during her younger sister Khushi's wedding. And yet, three months after that, Pia is changed completely. She has lost the weight she was struggling with for some time, her paintings are doing well, and even Raghav seems to be on the verge of proposing. But Pia's mother doesn't seem happy. Because she knows that this new Pia isn't really just Pia, she knows that the demon is back.
As we follow Pia into the present and the past, we come to know more about this demon that apparently possesses Pia, Pia's struggles since childhood and the traumas she suffered while growing up. But lest we sit down and dismiss her as just a phantom of Pia's mind, the demon, the yakshini, takes complete hold of Pia and goes into a rampage like never before.
Short and fast paced, Batshit is an interesting amalgamation of genres that will keep its readers interested and invested in the story. Kapoor touches upon a number of themes, but this story basically stays that of Pia and her demon. Quite original in its own way, with definite feminist undertones, Batshit is a different than usual book by an Indian writer.
Pia Bhandari is rich and moderately successful at her job. She has a boyfriend her mother approves of, but he wouldn't propose marriage, and Pia knows that he is cheating. Pia herself isn't sure of what she wants, or even who she is, and things come to head when she has a total breakdown during her younger sister Khushi's wedding. And yet, three months after that, Pia is changed completely. She has lost the weight she was struggling with for some time, her paintings are doing well, and even Raghav seems to be on the verge of proposing. But Pia's mother doesn't seem happy. Because she knows that this new Pia isn't really just Pia, she knows that the demon is back.
As we follow Pia into the present and the past, we come to know more about this demon that apparently possesses Pia, Pia's struggles since childhood and the traumas she suffered while growing up. But lest we sit down and dismiss her as just a phantom of Pia's mind, the demon, the yakshini, takes complete hold of Pia and goes into a rampage like never before.
Short and fast paced, Batshit is an interesting amalgamation of genres that will keep its readers interested and invested in the story. Kapoor touches upon a number of themes, but this story basically stays that of Pia and her demon. Quite original in its own way, with definite feminist undertones, Batshit is a different than usual book by an Indian writer.
March 23, 2023
Demons or hallucinations - The debate never ends. We might have read books and seen movies that talk about the scientific truth behind paranormal activities as well as the ones that condone the belief that ghost exists. While the debate prevails, the reading and viewing experiences provided by such creative products are unarguably endearing. Batshit by Kritika Kapoor is one book that hooks the readers to the happening and boring life of Pia while leaving them lingering on the thoughts about the demons in her head.
Pia belongs to a family of perfection and is going to marry someone who, according to her family is the embodiment of perfection. What matters to the family is the sprawling mansions, extravagant functions, and splurge of money to impress the world outside. While the family expected their younger daughter Khushi's wedding to be a cakewalk (they are all social animals) Pia turns out to be a hot potato, and the relapse of her past happens on the very night of the wedding. The mess she is, Pia messed up her sister's wedding. What happens next? How she deals with the demons in her head? How her life changes after that night and everyone else's for that matter is the crux of the book.
Dark humor and stark reality
The author unapologetically lays bare the societal standards of the thin girl is beautiful and poised girl is a successful formula. She subtly places the scenarios where with a single line of thought or dialogue the characters come across as body shaming and judgemental. Pia's looks have been a constant topic of discussion before and after her weight gain and loss. How a plump woman is left out in the cold during family gatherings much worse scanned from tip to toe with hidden disgust and evident pseudo sympathy
How someone's mental health is a butt of jokes for the family much less the society is palpably portrayed throughout the book. The worst-case scenario when the closest ones are unaware of the real issues is a reality that is sticking out like a giant tree of truth in the book. Someone who has been through the same can relate closely with pia and be sympathetic and empathetic in the process.
A cliche trope with a unique narrative
The trope of Good for nothing heroine with a perfect and smug sister and don't care, partner, is a trope that has been overdone. So is a mother who body shames her daughter to feed on her insecurities. But what makes the book stand out is the uniqueness of the narrative. The author makes the readers swim through the psyche of each character and makes them connect with each of them. Like a movie screenplay, the characters are placed in the right place at the right time to the viewers the right perspective and a visual representation of imagination. Once we are immersed in the book we just go with the flow with no regard to the trope. The readers are just in the eye of the tornado with Pia waiting for what happens next.
Pia belongs to a family of perfection and is going to marry someone who, according to her family is the embodiment of perfection. What matters to the family is the sprawling mansions, extravagant functions, and splurge of money to impress the world outside. While the family expected their younger daughter Khushi's wedding to be a cakewalk (they are all social animals) Pia turns out to be a hot potato, and the relapse of her past happens on the very night of the wedding. The mess she is, Pia messed up her sister's wedding. What happens next? How she deals with the demons in her head? How her life changes after that night and everyone else's for that matter is the crux of the book.
Dark humor and stark reality
The author unapologetically lays bare the societal standards of the thin girl is beautiful and poised girl is a successful formula. She subtly places the scenarios where with a single line of thought or dialogue the characters come across as body shaming and judgemental. Pia's looks have been a constant topic of discussion before and after her weight gain and loss. How a plump woman is left out in the cold during family gatherings much worse scanned from tip to toe with hidden disgust and evident pseudo sympathy
How someone's mental health is a butt of jokes for the family much less the society is palpably portrayed throughout the book. The worst-case scenario when the closest ones are unaware of the real issues is a reality that is sticking out like a giant tree of truth in the book. Someone who has been through the same can relate closely with pia and be sympathetic and empathetic in the process.
A cliche trope with a unique narrative
The trope of Good for nothing heroine with a perfect and smug sister and don't care, partner, is a trope that has been overdone. So is a mother who body shames her daughter to feed on her insecurities. But what makes the book stand out is the uniqueness of the narrative. The author makes the readers swim through the psyche of each character and makes them connect with each of them. Like a movie screenplay, the characters are placed in the right place at the right time to the viewers the right perspective and a visual representation of imagination. Once we are immersed in the book we just go with the flow with no regard to the trope. The readers are just in the eye of the tornado with Pia waiting for what happens next.
March 30, 2023
— rating: 4★
Batshit is a captivating, thought-provoking, and enjoyable read. Kritika Kapoor did such an amazing job with this short yet gripping novel. I finished reading this in a day and it was crazy. BATSHIT crazy! It's a psychological thriller you need to pick up right away.
One of the strengths of this book is the way in which the author delves into the psyche of the main character, exploring the depths of her fears and desires.
Pia, the main character is all about perfection and grandeur. She has the idea life— or so it seems. As long as she puts on a happy face, no one would know about the sinister voices in her head.Not her boyfriend Raghav, or her soon-to-be-married younger sister Khushi, her long-time psychiatrist Dr Agarwal, her father Ajit or even her mother Neeta, who is otherwise obsessed with controlling her daughter’s life.
But Pia’s demons follow her wherever she goes. One yellow-eyed demon in particular. Feral and bloodthirsty, it threatens to rip through Pia’s life, leaving a murderous trail in its wake. Hurtling between the opulent kothis of GK-2 to the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms, this twisted tale about a Delhi girl’s fight against the dark forces is about to get batshit.
Most of the book I was trying to figure out what is real, and what isn't. This book consummately kept me on my toes the whole time. It kept me second guessing, yet it was easy to get through.
Kritika Kapoor does an excellent job of creating suspense and tension throughout the story. The action sequences are expertly crafted, in a way that you won't be able to put this booo down.
Pia is a very unique character, for the most parts I could not relate to her. But there were parts where I saw myself in her. Pia struggled with her body image, with her family's expectations, with challenges that came with being in a relationship, and with figuring out herself.
She has a twisted outlook on life, and the voices in her head make it worse.
There were things I did NOT see coming. I had goosebumps reading some parts. Pure spine-chilling horror.
Overall, Batshit is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The author skillfully weaves together a complex plot with flawed yet unique characters, creating a story that is both thought-provoking and suspenseful.
I highly recommend it to someone who loves twisted stories and psychological thrillers.
Batshit is a captivating, thought-provoking, and enjoyable read. Kritika Kapoor did such an amazing job with this short yet gripping novel. I finished reading this in a day and it was crazy. BATSHIT crazy! It's a psychological thriller you need to pick up right away.
One of the strengths of this book is the way in which the author delves into the psyche of the main character, exploring the depths of her fears and desires.
Pia, the main character is all about perfection and grandeur. She has the idea life— or so it seems. As long as she puts on a happy face, no one would know about the sinister voices in her head.Not her boyfriend Raghav, or her soon-to-be-married younger sister Khushi, her long-time psychiatrist Dr Agarwal, her father Ajit or even her mother Neeta, who is otherwise obsessed with controlling her daughter’s life.
But Pia’s demons follow her wherever she goes. One yellow-eyed demon in particular. Feral and bloodthirsty, it threatens to rip through Pia’s life, leaving a murderous trail in its wake. Hurtling between the opulent kothis of GK-2 to the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms, this twisted tale about a Delhi girl’s fight against the dark forces is about to get batshit.
Most of the book I was trying to figure out what is real, and what isn't. This book consummately kept me on my toes the whole time. It kept me second guessing, yet it was easy to get through.
Kritika Kapoor does an excellent job of creating suspense and tension throughout the story. The action sequences are expertly crafted, in a way that you won't be able to put this booo down.
Pia is a very unique character, for the most parts I could not relate to her. But there were parts where I saw myself in her. Pia struggled with her body image, with her family's expectations, with challenges that came with being in a relationship, and with figuring out herself.
She has a twisted outlook on life, and the voices in her head make it worse.
There were things I did NOT see coming. I had goosebumps reading some parts. Pure spine-chilling horror.
Overall, Batshit is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The author skillfully weaves together a complex plot with flawed yet unique characters, creating a story that is both thought-provoking and suspenseful.
I highly recommend it to someone who loves twisted stories and psychological thrillers.
December 30, 2025
(3/5 || 2025)
March 10, 2023
Batshit was interesting; a breath of fresh air from the usual ones
I rarely give Indian literature a chance.
Big fan of this theme & genre, so I instantly decided to check whether the new-gen Indian Novel was any good.
It started all well but went stale towards the middle. It went almost like every other generic Indian book. I was about to put it down when I reached the third act and it became somewhat better. Then it kept getting better. I don't know how the author fixed the pacing (or was it the removal of pretentious douchebags in the south Delhi society depicted in the book?) and salvaged the book.
I was hellbent on giving this a 2/5.
But Kritika Kapoor deserves brownie points for salvaging it, having written it well, and not screwing up a debut.
Good luck. And stay Batshit Crazy with such stories.
I rarely give Indian literature a chance.
Big fan of this theme & genre, so I instantly decided to check whether the new-gen Indian Novel was any good.
It started all well but went stale towards the middle. It went almost like every other generic Indian book. I was about to put it down when I reached the third act and it became somewhat better. Then it kept getting better. I don't know how the author fixed the pacing (or was it the removal of pretentious douchebags in the south Delhi society depicted in the book?) and salvaged the book.
I was hellbent on giving this a 2/5.
But Kritika Kapoor deserves brownie points for salvaging it, having written it well, and not screwing up a debut.
Good luck. And stay Batshit Crazy with such stories.
December 4, 2024
Pia Bhandari is in her thirties, facing a midlife crisis because her mother is forcing body standards on her, and her boyfriend is cheating on her with an Instagram influencer. She has had a troubled childhood because of multiple issues like her abusive mother, a friend who was perfect in all ways and a sister who had an ideal life. Now, it’s her chance to get what she wants, but only if she listens to the demon inside her. It grants her one wish per sacrifice she is willing to make, but how far can she go till the demon ceases to exist?
This is the author’s debut book and my second one by her. I have noticed one thing in common in these books: they both have strong substance, but the execution somehow isn’t balanced. The second half of the book was great and intense, but the first half wasn’t very impressive.
The theme of mental health, body issues, toxic parenting, and eating disorders was fine, but at some point, it just became too much of everything, and I didn’t know what the author was trying to concentrate on. It became like too many cooks spoiled the broth, and instead, the author could have chosen just a few of these and could have elaborated on that. As with her previous book, the first half was very inept and casual, and I couldn’t feel for any of the characters. However, the second half was reasonable and justified the theme of horror. Only the feminist portion is not found in the book as it was marketed.
I couldn’t love the book entirely, but I don’t hate it either. If you can bear with a rather clumsy start and have a good ending, then you can go ahead and pick it up.
This is the author’s debut book and my second one by her. I have noticed one thing in common in these books: they both have strong substance, but the execution somehow isn’t balanced. The second half of the book was great and intense, but the first half wasn’t very impressive.
The theme of mental health, body issues, toxic parenting, and eating disorders was fine, but at some point, it just became too much of everything, and I didn’t know what the author was trying to concentrate on. It became like too many cooks spoiled the broth, and instead, the author could have chosen just a few of these and could have elaborated on that. As with her previous book, the first half was very inept and casual, and I couldn’t feel for any of the characters. However, the second half was reasonable and justified the theme of horror. Only the feminist portion is not found in the book as it was marketed.
I couldn’t love the book entirely, but I don’t hate it either. If you can bear with a rather clumsy start and have a good ending, then you can go ahead and pick it up.
March 28, 2023
Twenty-something Pia Bhandari has the ideal life – or so it seems. As long as she puts on a happy face, no one is any the wiser about the sinister voices in her head. Not her boyfriend Raghav, or her soon-to-be-married younger sister Khushi, her long-time psychiatrist Dr Agarwal, her father Ajit or even her mother Neeta, who is otherwise obsessed with controlling her daughter’s life.
But Pia’s demons follow her wherever she goes. One yellow-eyed demon in particular. Feral and bloodthirsty, it threatens to rip through Pia’s life, leaving a murderous trail in its wake. Hurtling between the opulent kothis of GK-2 and the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms, this twisted tale about a Delhi girl’s fight against the dark forces is about to get batshit.
.
A fast paced debut that has touches of a lot of emotions, is a great example of Delhi upper class society and most importantly the unreliability of human nature and minds. A 214 page ups and downs that you surely need to read this season!
.
But Pia’s demons follow her wherever she goes. One yellow-eyed demon in particular. Feral and bloodthirsty, it threatens to rip through Pia’s life, leaving a murderous trail in its wake. Hurtling between the opulent kothis of GK-2 and the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms, this twisted tale about a Delhi girl’s fight against the dark forces is about to get batshit.
.
A fast paced debut that has touches of a lot of emotions, is a great example of Delhi upper class society and most importantly the unreliability of human nature and minds. A 214 page ups and downs that you surely need to read this season!
.
October 12, 2023
CW: Emotional Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, Eating Disorder, Body Shaming, Family Issues, Abusive Therapist, Forced Stay in Mental Health Facility
I only write reviews for books I DNF if I get a decent chunk in (69%) and I have some constructive things to say. Judging by reviews all over the place, I am also in the minority, so your mileage may vary
Batshit is the story of a bourgeois Indian woman in her late 20s with a partner and family who treat her with varying amounts of distance, controlling, and emotional abuse. She has a vague mental health issue and/ or childhood trauma that is a catalyst for supernatural events. Due to all of this, she is understandably depressed and not looking after herself, which her wonderful kith and kin are taking as a cue to treat her worse. Also, there's a demon.
I think this book is advertised incorrectly. I have seen it advertised as horror and feminist horror, which may become more accurate in the last bit I didn't read, but these do not seem accurate. I don't know exactly what I would characterise this, but I think it needs contemporary life or romance or something because the vast majority of this book is just an upper class woman with incredible material privilege and shitty people in her life. Like, you could tag a different final third on this book and it could be a Bridget Jones' Diary or Algorithms set in Delhi. I wasn't to be clear that I am not disparaging those or this story, simply making it clear how little foreboding, foreshadowing, or anything vaguely horror related showed up.
I think horror books have a tough time (particularly in my experience/ to my taste) balancing the spooky elements with the framing and with there being a lot of pressure on the non horror elements of the book to be good enough to justify themselves and play into the horror. Let me be clear, I totally get that a horror book can't be all nightmare time all the time, but the story building up to it has to serve the horror, and, personally, I want to see elements of horror, blurring reality and comprehension, and/ or some line of effect, deterioration, etc. I'm not saying they aren't in this book, well, the former is, but the latter really isn't so much, but the narrative is only a woman's awful family and partner. That only is only there to mean there is a single element, I'm a woman with a shitty family that left me with C-PTSD, so I'm not playing down the effects of these things on her. But, we only see this, and no real foreshadowing or building or tension for the horror.
This could be the point and I'm just not getting it.
Regarding the feminism, I'm not sure I'm seeing it. Referencing things that are discussed within feminism and having cartoonishly shitty me who (paraphrasing as I can't remember the exact quote) 'might get triggered if they think art is too feminist because they have already been called out as part of #MeToo' doesn't feel like feminism to me. The inclusion of judgments around weight, makeup, looks, diet, eating disorders are all well and good, but they are rather hamfisted and the language around them and the way they play out doesn't feel like the feminist critique it thinks it is. There's a crucial moment I won't spoil around one of these topics and maybe I'm just not looking at it the right way, but I'm not sure I like it. I'm getting myself worked up and I don't want to be mean and there's a chance I'm totally wrong, but the feminism I'm seeing is more of the girlboss and not intersectional.
I didn't like the way mental health is handled and equating mental health and the demon. Using mental health and disability as allusions/ effects/ representations of horror elements is an age old tradition that traditionally fucking sucks and is handled incredibly poorly. I can't comment on where this goes, but I was getting bad vibes that only got worse.
Look, as a contemporary romance, awkwardness story like those I mentioned it's fine. The writing isn't awful and getting an Indian perspective and all the cultural elements was great. I don't want to be too hard on the things I've raised because so much of media is as bad or much, much worse on these topics, but seeing it touted as feminist and sold as straight horror I wasn't setup to give this book the fair shake it deserved. That's on the advertising and me to a large extent, but the book definitely seems to have some issues.
I did love the description of the gallery of femme demons Pia painted, but that was literally my favourite moment of the book and I would have trades this book for a glimpse at one of those paintings in a heartbeat.
I DNF'd with about a quarter to go. I'm in the minority. I'm very autistic and opinionated about the importance of intersectional feminism. I really don't like bourgeois people and stories about them. This is all subjective and you shouldn't trust me. I am absolutely not telling you to avoid this book and if you like it, great. Ideally, this review would either put off someone who feels even more strongly than I do about the things I've mentioned, but more than anything I would like it to have a prospective reader going in forewarned and forearmed so they can have the best experience possible. I know I would have if I had the heads up.
I only write reviews for books I DNF if I get a decent chunk in (69%) and I have some constructive things to say. Judging by reviews all over the place, I am also in the minority, so your mileage may vary
Batshit is the story of a bourgeois Indian woman in her late 20s with a partner and family who treat her with varying amounts of distance, controlling, and emotional abuse. She has a vague mental health issue and/ or childhood trauma that is a catalyst for supernatural events. Due to all of this, she is understandably depressed and not looking after herself, which her wonderful kith and kin are taking as a cue to treat her worse. Also, there's a demon.
I think this book is advertised incorrectly. I have seen it advertised as horror and feminist horror, which may become more accurate in the last bit I didn't read, but these do not seem accurate. I don't know exactly what I would characterise this, but I think it needs contemporary life or romance or something because the vast majority of this book is just an upper class woman with incredible material privilege and shitty people in her life. Like, you could tag a different final third on this book and it could be a Bridget Jones' Diary or Algorithms set in Delhi. I wasn't to be clear that I am not disparaging those or this story, simply making it clear how little foreboding, foreshadowing, or anything vaguely horror related showed up.
I think horror books have a tough time (particularly in my experience/ to my taste) balancing the spooky elements with the framing and with there being a lot of pressure on the non horror elements of the book to be good enough to justify themselves and play into the horror. Let me be clear, I totally get that a horror book can't be all nightmare time all the time, but the story building up to it has to serve the horror, and, personally, I want to see elements of horror, blurring reality and comprehension, and/ or some line of effect, deterioration, etc. I'm not saying they aren't in this book, well, the former is, but the latter really isn't so much, but the narrative is only a woman's awful family and partner. That only is only there to mean there is a single element, I'm a woman with a shitty family that left me with C-PTSD, so I'm not playing down the effects of these things on her. But, we only see this, and no real foreshadowing or building or tension for the horror.
This could be the point and I'm just not getting it.
Regarding the feminism, I'm not sure I'm seeing it. Referencing things that are discussed within feminism and having cartoonishly shitty me who (paraphrasing as I can't remember the exact quote) 'might get triggered if they think art is too feminist because they have already been called out as part of #MeToo' doesn't feel like feminism to me. The inclusion of judgments around weight, makeup, looks, diet, eating disorders are all well and good, but they are rather hamfisted and the language around them and the way they play out doesn't feel like the feminist critique it thinks it is. There's a crucial moment I won't spoil around one of these topics and maybe I'm just not looking at it the right way, but I'm not sure I like it. I'm getting myself worked up and I don't want to be mean and there's a chance I'm totally wrong, but the feminism I'm seeing is more of the girlboss and not intersectional.
I didn't like the way mental health is handled and equating mental health and the demon. Using mental health and disability as allusions/ effects/ representations of horror elements is an age old tradition that traditionally fucking sucks and is handled incredibly poorly. I can't comment on where this goes, but I was getting bad vibes that only got worse.
Look, as a contemporary romance, awkwardness story like those I mentioned it's fine. The writing isn't awful and getting an Indian perspective and all the cultural elements was great. I don't want to be too hard on the things I've raised because so much of media is as bad or much, much worse on these topics, but seeing it touted as feminist and sold as straight horror I wasn't setup to give this book the fair shake it deserved. That's on the advertising and me to a large extent, but the book definitely seems to have some issues.
I did love the description of the gallery of femme demons Pia painted, but that was literally my favourite moment of the book and I would have trades this book for a glimpse at one of those paintings in a heartbeat.
I DNF'd with about a quarter to go. I'm in the minority. I'm very autistic and opinionated about the importance of intersectional feminism. I really don't like bourgeois people and stories about them. This is all subjective and you shouldn't trust me. I am absolutely not telling you to avoid this book and if you like it, great. Ideally, this review would either put off someone who feels even more strongly than I do about the things I've mentioned, but more than anything I would like it to have a prospective reader going in forewarned and forearmed so they can have the best experience possible. I know I would have if I had the heads up.
March 12, 2023
If we had the power to get whatever we want by any means, the world would be batshit crazy.
The name is perfectly fitting for the story. What a speedy read!
I finished this in 4 hours in the middle of the night, and that's how addicting the narrative is. A psychological thriller that keeps you questioning till the last line, and on the edge of your seat. The lead character, Pia, starts off as relatable yet distant: a South Delhi girl struggling with her body image, stuck in a relationship that seems impossible to fix, battling an overbearing family's expectations, yet privileged enough to lead a life without the burdens of the middle class thanks to her father being a rich lawyer. Her worldview is established as twisted, the reasons revealed slowly.
The story uses psychology and horror in a great mix, so much so that in the middle you'd actually start to question if it's even a horror. The "demon", manifesting as a voice in Pia's head usually and possessing her with yellow bloodhshot eyes, is based on the familar malevolent Yakshini of Indian myths. The development of the story is great, and doesn't leave any untied ends.
The novel is also a great example of what overbearing parent, or parents, can do; how messed up one's interpersonal relationships can become because of such treatment at home. But it also stays true to the element of horror in it, using the tactic of "shadow following" to get the eerie vibes across. Apparently, reading this at 2am also helps intensify the vibe, because with the rising sun I can still feel the hair on my skin rise. The element of schizophrenia, and that grey area of questioning if indeed all the evil beings of the tale are really mental disorders or starkly real, weaves in very well into the duality described above.
In the end one has to sympathise with Pia, and not so much with her victims (although some of that sympathy extends to her mother Neeta as well, until you acknowledge how far she contributed in messing her up too). Including Freudian theories and Rosharch's studies, two of the most debated ideas in psychology, adds to the effect of uncertainty and mystification. And somehow both the psychological and ritualistic explanations make sense. The Yakshini plays into both, fitting in very well with the explanations put forward on both fronts.
If you're looking for a short but exciting read, this is your stop. A little over 200 pages, this is perfect for a long train journey or getting over a slump (which I was slightly into ngl). As a debut novel the author has done a great job. The open ended ending also gives great food for thought and discussion. The last line could definitely be something to ponder over, especially based on how the concept had been played on throughout. Having a privileged South Delhi girl be the lead also works really well, given how the privileges blessed on Pia become her bane in the end as well.
In the end, all you can ask is, did everyone get what they deserved? Did it go overboard, or was it not enough? What is real torture: dying a gruesome death in the hands of a demon, or living with the burden of witnessing it happen?
The name is perfectly fitting for the story. What a speedy read!
I finished this in 4 hours in the middle of the night, and that's how addicting the narrative is. A psychological thriller that keeps you questioning till the last line, and on the edge of your seat. The lead character, Pia, starts off as relatable yet distant: a South Delhi girl struggling with her body image, stuck in a relationship that seems impossible to fix, battling an overbearing family's expectations, yet privileged enough to lead a life without the burdens of the middle class thanks to her father being a rich lawyer. Her worldview is established as twisted, the reasons revealed slowly.
The story uses psychology and horror in a great mix, so much so that in the middle you'd actually start to question if it's even a horror. The "demon", manifesting as a voice in Pia's head usually and possessing her with yellow bloodhshot eyes, is based on the familar malevolent Yakshini of Indian myths. The development of the story is great, and doesn't leave any untied ends.
The novel is also a great example of what overbearing parent, or parents, can do; how messed up one's interpersonal relationships can become because of such treatment at home. But it also stays true to the element of horror in it, using the tactic of "shadow following" to get the eerie vibes across. Apparently, reading this at 2am also helps intensify the vibe, because with the rising sun I can still feel the hair on my skin rise. The element of schizophrenia, and that grey area of questioning if indeed all the evil beings of the tale are really mental disorders or starkly real, weaves in very well into the duality described above.
In the end one has to sympathise with Pia, and not so much with her victims (although some of that sympathy extends to her mother Neeta as well, until you acknowledge how far she contributed in messing her up too). Including Freudian theories and Rosharch's studies, two of the most debated ideas in psychology, adds to the effect of uncertainty and mystification. And somehow both the psychological and ritualistic explanations make sense. The Yakshini plays into both, fitting in very well with the explanations put forward on both fronts.
If you're looking for a short but exciting read, this is your stop. A little over 200 pages, this is perfect for a long train journey or getting over a slump (which I was slightly into ngl). As a debut novel the author has done a great job. The open ended ending also gives great food for thought and discussion. The last line could definitely be something to ponder over, especially based on how the concept had been played on throughout. Having a privileged South Delhi girl be the lead also works really well, given how the privileges blessed on Pia become her bane in the end as well.
In the end, all you can ask is, did everyone get what they deserved? Did it go overboard, or was it not enough? What is real torture: dying a gruesome death in the hands of a demon, or living with the burden of witnessing it happen?
April 8, 2023
🦇Sometimes, when you finish reading a book, you feel a certain kind of vacuum within you because you were so very involved in the story and with the characters, that it coming to an end almost makes you feel a lot of bittersweet emotions.
🦇When I started reading Batshit, I didn’t know that this book had the potential to do that to me. I picked it up as a random read and it turned out to be a read that’s going to stay with me for a long time, majorly because of its unique plotline, exemplary narrative, character development and connect.
🦇To talk about the story, it primarily revolves around Pia Bhandari, a South Delhi girl who does as her obsessive mother says, sometimes voluntarily and sometimes involuntarily until she reaches a point when she decides to stop listening at all and instead do what the demon inside her asks her to. Yes, you read it right; it’s a demon we’re talking about!
🦇However, this demon, as it seems so, is just in the form of sinister voices in her head and none around her including her parents, boyfriend, sister or even her mother, are aware of it until she starts doing things that triggers a warning and puts forward a question- is this demon merely a figment of Pia’s imagination or is it actually for real?
🦇The story takes us through Pia’s childhood, her traumas, her mother’s anger and obsession with Pia, the summoning of an actual demon, Pia’s trials with psychiatrists and finally the revelation of what is actually going on!
🦇The story is quite interesting and unique. Also, the way the author has developed Pia with regard to her psychology is something that deserves an applaud.
The narration is buttery smooth and the story flows naturally and beautifully.
🦇Me being a thriller fan with a special liking towards horror, this is just the book I wanted to read for a long time.
I’d suggest all horror-thriller fans to not give this book a miss!
🦇When I started reading Batshit, I didn’t know that this book had the potential to do that to me. I picked it up as a random read and it turned out to be a read that’s going to stay with me for a long time, majorly because of its unique plotline, exemplary narrative, character development and connect.
🦇To talk about the story, it primarily revolves around Pia Bhandari, a South Delhi girl who does as her obsessive mother says, sometimes voluntarily and sometimes involuntarily until she reaches a point when she decides to stop listening at all and instead do what the demon inside her asks her to. Yes, you read it right; it’s a demon we’re talking about!
🦇However, this demon, as it seems so, is just in the form of sinister voices in her head and none around her including her parents, boyfriend, sister or even her mother, are aware of it until she starts doing things that triggers a warning and puts forward a question- is this demon merely a figment of Pia’s imagination or is it actually for real?
🦇The story takes us through Pia’s childhood, her traumas, her mother’s anger and obsession with Pia, the summoning of an actual demon, Pia’s trials with psychiatrists and finally the revelation of what is actually going on!
🦇The story is quite interesting and unique. Also, the way the author has developed Pia with regard to her psychology is something that deserves an applaud.
The narration is buttery smooth and the story flows naturally and beautifully.
🦇Me being a thriller fan with a special liking towards horror, this is just the book I wanted to read for a long time.
I’d suggest all horror-thriller fans to not give this book a miss!
April 16, 2023
Batshit by Kritika Kapoor
.
As humans, we occasionally fall prey to the shortcomings of our brains to believe things that may or may not exist. Most people believe that it's our road to insanity, about imagining, hearing, and forming things in our brains. But for some reason, it could be a defense mechanism of our consciousness to make us live in an unimaginable state of mind, because the real world has nothing but hard on us.
The story revolves around Pia Bhandari, a South Delhi girl who lives on the words and decisions of her obsessive mother. She never had an easy life, the anger issues of her mother and the constant controlling attitude have always made her feel miserable and weak.
Later the story unfolds into a sinister angle by introducing us to a demon that lives inside Pia. However, this demon, as it seems so, is just in the form of sinister voices in her head and none around her including her parents, boyfriend, or sister, is aware of it.
As we sail more into the story we come to about Pia's childhood, her traumas, Pia's trials with psychiatrists, and the final act that reveals the existence or non-existence of the demon.
Despite the dark and unsettling premise of the novel, the author handles the subject matter with sensitivity and nuance, allowing readers to empathize with Pia's plight while also feeling a sense of unease and dread.
The characters are well-drawn and multi-dimensional, with flaws and weaknesses that make them feel real and relatable.
"Batshit" for me as the name suggests is a captivating and haunting read that will stay with readers long after they've finished the final page.
It's a testament to the power of storytelling to explore complex themes and ideas in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
.
As humans, we occasionally fall prey to the shortcomings of our brains to believe things that may or may not exist. Most people believe that it's our road to insanity, about imagining, hearing, and forming things in our brains. But for some reason, it could be a defense mechanism of our consciousness to make us live in an unimaginable state of mind, because the real world has nothing but hard on us.
The story revolves around Pia Bhandari, a South Delhi girl who lives on the words and decisions of her obsessive mother. She never had an easy life, the anger issues of her mother and the constant controlling attitude have always made her feel miserable and weak.
Later the story unfolds into a sinister angle by introducing us to a demon that lives inside Pia. However, this demon, as it seems so, is just in the form of sinister voices in her head and none around her including her parents, boyfriend, or sister, is aware of it.
As we sail more into the story we come to about Pia's childhood, her traumas, Pia's trials with psychiatrists, and the final act that reveals the existence or non-existence of the demon.
Despite the dark and unsettling premise of the novel, the author handles the subject matter with sensitivity and nuance, allowing readers to empathize with Pia's plight while also feeling a sense of unease and dread.
The characters are well-drawn and multi-dimensional, with flaws and weaknesses that make them feel real and relatable.
"Batshit" for me as the name suggests is a captivating and haunting read that will stay with readers long after they've finished the final page.
It's a testament to the power of storytelling to explore complex themes and ideas in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
January 9, 2025
Was not expecting this audible freebie to charm me so much.
Started very slow and very dull, I didn't gel with it to begin with. I don't particularly enjoy people with mental health conditions, namedly schizophrenia, as being portrayed as violent and dangerous - but this was an actual demon! Which made her murder people in order to lose weight and get the cheating boyfriend she doesn't love to propose to her! And it's only when the demon is introduced that the story starts to get good and bloody weird. You're left in a state of 'did that actually happen?' With a lot of scenes.
What I wasn't expecting was for the narrative around eating disorders and abusive mother-daughter dynamics to be just so perfect. I've truly never read a book that's explored these subjects in a way I've actually related to. It was so bizarrely comforting. Pia being celebrated for being the absolute worst version of herself. Her mum's happiness being expressed with cruelty towards her. Urgh. Heartbreaking. But it's made this a book I really love.
I'm seeing some reviews questioning the feminist aspect of the book, and I think it's important to keep in mind intersectional feminism looks different across different demographics. I found its perspective into the 'role' and value of women valuable.
The ending- short finale. I quite like a quick cut off. She's consumed by the demon, goes on a murdering spree and then dies. The ending makes sense, I'm glad the Kritika Kapoor didn't try and force a happily ever after out of it. Pia was bled dry or abandoned by every significant relationship she had and her attempt to grasp control ended in demonic possession who then did the same.
I can give 5* because the beginning was so, so very slow. If the book was better paced, it would be easily rounded up.
Started very slow and very dull, I didn't gel with it to begin with. I don't particularly enjoy people with mental health conditions, namedly schizophrenia, as being portrayed as violent and dangerous - but this was an actual demon! Which made her murder people in order to lose weight and get the cheating boyfriend she doesn't love to propose to her! And it's only when the demon is introduced that the story starts to get good and bloody weird. You're left in a state of 'did that actually happen?' With a lot of scenes.
What I wasn't expecting was for the narrative around eating disorders and abusive mother-daughter dynamics to be just so perfect. I've truly never read a book that's explored these subjects in a way I've actually related to. It was so bizarrely comforting. Pia being celebrated for being the absolute worst version of herself. Her mum's happiness being expressed with cruelty towards her. Urgh. Heartbreaking. But it's made this a book I really love.
I'm seeing some reviews questioning the feminist aspect of the book, and I think it's important to keep in mind intersectional feminism looks different across different demographics. I found its perspective into the 'role' and value of women valuable.
The ending- short finale. I quite like a quick cut off. She's consumed by the demon, goes on a murdering spree and then dies. The ending makes sense, I'm glad the Kritika Kapoor didn't try and force a happily ever after out of it. Pia was bled dry or abandoned by every significant relationship she had and her attempt to grasp control ended in demonic possession who then did the same.
I can give 5* because the beginning was so, so very slow. If the book was better paced, it would be easily rounded up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2023
"Batshit" by Kritika Kapoor is a dark and twisted tale of a young Delhi girl's struggle with her inner demons. Twenty-something Pia Bhandari appears to have it all - a loving boyfriend, supportive family, and successful career. However, Pia is plagued by sinister voices in her head that threaten to tear her life apart.
Despite seeking the help of a long-time psychiatrist, Dr. Agarwal, and hiding her struggles from those around her, Pia's demons continue to haunt her. In particular, a feral and bloodthirsty yellow-eyed demon that follows her wherever she goes.
As the story unfolds, we see Pia grappling with her inner demons and fighting to keep her sanity. The book takes us on a journey through the opulent neighborhoods of Delhi, from the kothis of GK-2 to the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms. Along the way, we encounter a cast of characters, including Pia's boyfriend Raghav, her younger sister Khushi, and her controlling mother Neeta.
Kapoor's writing style is engaging and keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships and interactions add depth to the story. The book's strength lies in its portrayal of mental health and the impact it can have on an individual's life.
"Batshit" is a gripping and disturbing read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The story is well-crafted, and the characters are relatable and well-drawn. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers, then this book is definitely worth a read.
Despite seeking the help of a long-time psychiatrist, Dr. Agarwal, and hiding her struggles from those around her, Pia's demons continue to haunt her. In particular, a feral and bloodthirsty yellow-eyed demon that follows her wherever she goes.
As the story unfolds, we see Pia grappling with her inner demons and fighting to keep her sanity. The book takes us on a journey through the opulent neighborhoods of Delhi, from the kothis of GK-2 to the plush bungalows of Sainik Farms. Along the way, we encounter a cast of characters, including Pia's boyfriend Raghav, her younger sister Khushi, and her controlling mother Neeta.
Kapoor's writing style is engaging and keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships and interactions add depth to the story. The book's strength lies in its portrayal of mental health and the impact it can have on an individual's life.
"Batshit" is a gripping and disturbing read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The story is well-crafted, and the characters are relatable and well-drawn. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers, then this book is definitely worth a read.
March 31, 2023
Batshit explores an interesting concept where the author has tried to pen a psychological thriller by using a paranormal being as a central idea to the plot. The overall storytelling is interesting and keeps you turning the pages. What worked me in the book was that the events in the book keep you interested in the future of the characters. Another aspect which I liked was that the author has kept the pace of the book steady. What didn’t work for me was that the first half of the book and the second part seem completely poles apart. The idea of a possessed character seemed interesting, but the initial part of the story takes too long to set up the plot, and the clarification seems rushed towards the end. Blending the idea of Mother Complex with the concept of a Yakshini, Kritika has attempted to bridge horror and thriller genres. The plot justifies the concept, however the blend could have been a bit more detailed to extract the best of both worlds. The climax, for me, could have been a bit more worked upon to get that moment where the reader holds their breath.
Coming to the characters in the book, I felt that while Pia’s character had the complexity and the depth that the plot needed, the details were too little, too late. The level of detail about her character could have been explored a bit more and the background to her actions could have been introduced earlier on, so as to help the reader connect with the concept throughout the book. Neeta as a character did catch my attention and her actions were interesting to note, specially in hindsight of the climax.
Coming to the characters in the book, I felt that while Pia’s character had the complexity and the depth that the plot needed, the details were too little, too late. The level of detail about her character could have been explored a bit more and the background to her actions could have been introduced earlier on, so as to help the reader connect with the concept throughout the book. Neeta as a character did catch my attention and her actions were interesting to note, specially in hindsight of the climax.
March 27, 2023
3.5 stars
This is the story about 27 years old Pia Bhandari who seems to have the ideal life. Or so it seems. Her life is not that perfect. Her boyfriend Raghav won’t propose to her, she is gaining weight, her younger sister is getting married before her, and she cannot stop hearing the voices in her head.
Her demon follows her wherever she goes. Her demon seems to have yellow eyes and is bloodthirsty.
And Pia is slowly losing herself to the demon. She is losing her mind and things are going batshit.
This book was an entertaining and engaging read, and had me hooked from the first few pages. Also it is very fast paced. Even though this book is horror, there were also a few hilarious scenes in between where I laughed out loud.
Pia was an interesting character who was losing her mind and spiralling out. There was mention of Yakshini, which is a class of female nature spirits in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain religious mythologies, quite a lot.
I feel torn about the ending. I was both overwhelmed and underwhelmed by the ending. Even though the ending made sense, I feel the ending could’ve been better and conclusive.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book. It was engaging and well written. I’d definitely recommend this book!
This is the story about 27 years old Pia Bhandari who seems to have the ideal life. Or so it seems. Her life is not that perfect. Her boyfriend Raghav won’t propose to her, she is gaining weight, her younger sister is getting married before her, and she cannot stop hearing the voices in her head.
Her demon follows her wherever she goes. Her demon seems to have yellow eyes and is bloodthirsty.
And Pia is slowly losing herself to the demon. She is losing her mind and things are going batshit.
This book was an entertaining and engaging read, and had me hooked from the first few pages. Also it is very fast paced. Even though this book is horror, there were also a few hilarious scenes in between where I laughed out loud.
Pia was an interesting character who was losing her mind and spiralling out. There was mention of Yakshini, which is a class of female nature spirits in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain religious mythologies, quite a lot.
I feel torn about the ending. I was both overwhelmed and underwhelmed by the ending. Even though the ending made sense, I feel the ending could’ve been better and conclusive.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book. It was engaging and well written. I’d definitely recommend this book!
March 31, 2023
Pia's rich, perfect family wants her married to her boyfriend who doesn't give a damn. Her weight is a topic everyone wants to comment on. Especially her mom who wants to lead Pia's life in every step she takes. Now that her younger sister Khushi is getting married before her, all her relatives want to chime in and advise. People just body shames her and her own family does it. The messed up situation brings out the demon inside her.
Is it really a demon who possessed her or a burst out which makes her hallucinate things?
The Yakshini part of it, the demon she made deals with appears believable but when we get to see the overbearing parent part of the story, it made me question is it really the demon who made her do things or the relationship with her mom brought out a split personality which did all the nasty work. The ending didn't answer the question for me and I think the open ending is what the author wanted. She captured the insecurities - how the society pressurizes people with beauty standards, how it treats people who aren't married yet, how it affects a person's mental health and the judgemental side of people raw.
Batshit is a short, easy to read psychological thriller with heavy topics included.
Is it really a demon who possessed her or a burst out which makes her hallucinate things?
The Yakshini part of it, the demon she made deals with appears believable but when we get to see the overbearing parent part of the story, it made me question is it really the demon who made her do things or the relationship with her mom brought out a split personality which did all the nasty work. The ending didn't answer the question for me and I think the open ending is what the author wanted. She captured the insecurities - how the society pressurizes people with beauty standards, how it treats people who aren't married yet, how it affects a person's mental health and the judgemental side of people raw.
Batshit is a short, easy to read psychological thriller with heavy topics included.
October 6, 2024
‘South Delhi meets the Exorcist…,’ reads the text in a bright yellow bubble on the cover of the Indian horror fiction novel ‘Batshit’ by Kritika Kapoor, which safe to say – raises high expectations from horror enthusiasts like me. The South Delhi part is true, the Exorcist bit? Not really.
The story follows Pia Bhandari, a young woman with body issues, mommy issues, and severe mental health issues—all of which are worsened by a demon issue. She is dating a hot guy named Raghav who won’t propose, constantly monitored by her overbearing mom, Neeta; over-medicated by her psychiatrist; and outplayed by her younger sister, who is set to marry her childhood sweetheart, all of which unleashes the dormant monster inside Pia.
While the dysfunctional relationship between Pia and her overprotective mother Neeta is depicted in a well-crafted manner, the story doesn't get scary, eerie, or spooky until the climactic chapter. Only the climax delivers some blood, deaths and gore, the rest feels underwhelming in terms of horror. The simple conversational language, limited characters, and a largely straightforward chronological storytelling makes it an easy read.
The story follows Pia Bhandari, a young woman with body issues, mommy issues, and severe mental health issues—all of which are worsened by a demon issue. She is dating a hot guy named Raghav who won’t propose, constantly monitored by her overbearing mom, Neeta; over-medicated by her psychiatrist; and outplayed by her younger sister, who is set to marry her childhood sweetheart, all of which unleashes the dormant monster inside Pia.
While the dysfunctional relationship between Pia and her overprotective mother Neeta is depicted in a well-crafted manner, the story doesn't get scary, eerie, or spooky until the climactic chapter. Only the climax delivers some blood, deaths and gore, the rest feels underwhelming in terms of horror. The simple conversational language, limited characters, and a largely straightforward chronological storytelling makes it an easy read.
April 16, 2023
To begin with, Batshit is class apart! What an engaging page-turner it was.
As a reader, whose interest mostly veers around art, history, biography, memoirs, travel, novels, etc. I never saw myself delving into multiple genres such as horror and supernatural powers, served with humour, social commentary and feminist undertone. But I did, and happy that with Batshit, I allowed myself to expand my reading style.
To anyone who is currently at a bookstore, reading this review while contemplating buying Batshit - this book will blow your mind away, it is simply unputdownable and highly recommended for those who love horror/supernatural genre and at large a reader who is looking for some freshness. The writing is beautiful and very different, language a notch better than contemporary Indian authors. Amazingly well written, fast paced, interesting to core type of a book, which will surely leave you on tenterhooks.
More power to author Kritika Kapoor who is immensely gifted with words, vision and the art of storytelling. Can't wait for more books by her.
As a reader, whose interest mostly veers around art, history, biography, memoirs, travel, novels, etc. I never saw myself delving into multiple genres such as horror and supernatural powers, served with humour, social commentary and feminist undertone. But I did, and happy that with Batshit, I allowed myself to expand my reading style.
To anyone who is currently at a bookstore, reading this review while contemplating buying Batshit - this book will blow your mind away, it is simply unputdownable and highly recommended for those who love horror/supernatural genre and at large a reader who is looking for some freshness. The writing is beautiful and very different, language a notch better than contemporary Indian authors. Amazingly well written, fast paced, interesting to core type of a book, which will surely leave you on tenterhooks.
More power to author Kritika Kapoor who is immensely gifted with words, vision and the art of storytelling. Can't wait for more books by her.
Read
November 19, 2024Imagine living a life where everyone thinks you're perfect, but inside, you're fighting demons. Welcome to Pia's world.
"Batshit" is a gripping tale of a Delhi girl's struggle against the dark forces that haunt her. Pia's life seems ideal - rich family, boyfriend, and social status. But beneath the surface, she's battling sinister voices in her head and a terrifying yellow-eyed demon.
The book sheds light on India's societal pressures, where appearances matter more than mental health. Pia's family obsesses over her weight, and her mother body-shames her. Kapoor boldly critiques these norms, showcasing the devastating effects on individuals.
While the "troubled heroine" trope is familiar, the author's narrative stands out. She skillfully weaves together Pia's past and present, making readers connect with each character.
- Mental health matters, not societal expectations
- Embracing imperfection is strength, not weakness
- Family support is crucial, not judgment
📚 Recommendation:- For fans of psychological thrillers, mental health advocates, and anyone seeking a relatable story.
"Batshit" is a gripping tale of a Delhi girl's struggle against the dark forces that haunt her. Pia's life seems ideal - rich family, boyfriend, and social status. But beneath the surface, she's battling sinister voices in her head and a terrifying yellow-eyed demon.
The book sheds light on India's societal pressures, where appearances matter more than mental health. Pia's family obsesses over her weight, and her mother body-shames her. Kapoor boldly critiques these norms, showcasing the devastating effects on individuals.
While the "troubled heroine" trope is familiar, the author's narrative stands out. She skillfully weaves together Pia's past and present, making readers connect with each character.
- Mental health matters, not societal expectations
- Embracing imperfection is strength, not weakness
- Family support is crucial, not judgment
📚 Recommendation:- For fans of psychological thrillers, mental health advocates, and anyone seeking a relatable story.
February 20, 2023
This debut novel is equal parts social satire, horror comedy, and psychological thriller with teases of romance and murder mystery thrown in for good measure.
The opening scenes are peppered with smart, incisive, laugh-out-loud observations on Delhi's upper middle class social milieu, from the perspective of a female character on the margins. It so echoes the tradition of Austen, that you think you might be getting into a witty romance, albeit with some darker undercurrents. How wrong you would be.
The novel spirals, similar to the movie Parasite, into a world of madness where people are not who they seem and reality itself is constantly shape-shifting, ephemeral. The quintessential bait and switch.
Deeply exploring gendered social expectations and pressures and the psychological mother wound through the medium of body horror, the book is a riotous journey from beginning to end.
Once I started, I couldn't put it down. Pick it up and see for yourself!
The opening scenes are peppered with smart, incisive, laugh-out-loud observations on Delhi's upper middle class social milieu, from the perspective of a female character on the margins. It so echoes the tradition of Austen, that you think you might be getting into a witty romance, albeit with some darker undercurrents. How wrong you would be.
The novel spirals, similar to the movie Parasite, into a world of madness where people are not who they seem and reality itself is constantly shape-shifting, ephemeral. The quintessential bait and switch.
Deeply exploring gendered social expectations and pressures and the psychological mother wound through the medium of body horror, the book is a riotous journey from beginning to end.
Once I started, I couldn't put it down. Pick it up and see for yourself!
February 23, 2023
I've been in a reading slump for over a year. This book has ended it and how! Right from the first page, Batshit draws you in and you cannot look away from Pia and her demons. Horror is not my genre of choice but the story is so compelling, the writing so good, that I raced through it in less than a day. Kritika Kapoor has done what few first-time authors can do, told a story in a voice that is very clearly her own and taken a simple concept of how far will you go to get what you want and elevated it in an insightful and downright scary manner. I'm a fan for life and I cannot wait to see what she writes next. Special mention to the mom character, who was written with so much love and biting precision that I had to keep the book down and take a breath at one point.
January 14, 2024
3.5 🌟 A great first debut novel.
The story of Pia and her relationship with her mother might seem like a familiar one in some ways to some people. Feeling like you can never make your mother (or father) happy and feeling like you’re existing to only impress them. Or perhaps you’re the mother, wanting only the best for your child but you don’t realise how tightly you’re grasping.
The dive into Pia’s psyche was an interesting one and her whole grapple with her demon was fabulous horror.
I was too sure how I was fairing with this story for a little while but something did make me keep wanting to come back to it and I’m glad I did because the last third of the book or so really brought it all together for me.
The story of Pia and her relationship with her mother might seem like a familiar one in some ways to some people. Feeling like you can never make your mother (or father) happy and feeling like you’re existing to only impress them. Or perhaps you’re the mother, wanting only the best for your child but you don’t realise how tightly you’re grasping.
The dive into Pia’s psyche was an interesting one and her whole grapple with her demon was fabulous horror.
I was too sure how I was fairing with this story for a little while but something did make me keep wanting to come back to it and I’m glad I did because the last third of the book or so really brought it all together for me.
November 3, 2023
The conflation of mental illness and demonic possession is an old, and sometimes problematic trope in horror fiction so it seems odd to find it here, in a modern, entertaining, funny, genre-hopping social/family satire about Indian families that's also a horror story. Protagonist Pia's mental illness or possession (or a bit of both) is open to question for much of the story and Kapoor does a neat job of balancing the two until, by the end, we get a definitive answer. This is quite a short book but, even then, the horror (while effective) is a little sparse until a gory glut of it towards the end that just feels a bit too rushed.
February 21, 2023
Are you a woman who grew up with sexism, fat phobia and more fun stuff in India? Where marriage was the biggest achievement for any woman, even one with a college degree and her own ambitions? And you were just told repeatedly, that it’s all for your own good beta.
Then stop looking for non Indian authors who can’t explain this unique situation. READ this book. it is a rollicking joyride through the horrors of the urban Indian woman’s life. An absolute page turner that you won’t be able to put down, and will leave you with some haunting questions as well.
Then stop looking for non Indian authors who can’t explain this unique situation. READ this book. it is a rollicking joyride through the horrors of the urban Indian woman’s life. An absolute page turner that you won’t be able to put down, and will leave you with some haunting questions as well.
October 21, 2023
It's the better written of the two Yakshini books I've read this year, the first one being Neil D'Silva's Yakshini. And while it is better written and better characterised, it still falls woefully short of being a good horror novel because the scares are sparse and the slow build-up doesn't justify the rushed scares that come towards the end.
That said, I'll definitely read anything Kritika Kapoor puts out next. It's bound to be interesting.
That said, I'll definitely read anything Kritika Kapoor puts out next. It's bound to be interesting.
November 19, 2023
i dont normally do bad reviews bc its all about taste like im clearly not the target audience for this one but i picked it up because the cover is DOPE in capitals. then i put it down about halfway thru because i did not enjoy any of it. then i read a bunch of reviews about how good it is so i finished it. it was not good. sorry. a half finished thought - a sleeping pill wrapped in a cheese single but in such a way that you can still see the pill? sorry.
November 9, 2023
I was hoping for it to go one way... but it didn't. I, for one, really did enjoy the tête-à-tête between the public façade put on by the New Delhi bourgeoisie and the problems kept behind closed doors. Weirdly, I ended up enjoying the drama more so than the horror aspects of the novel.
June 13, 2024
"*Batshit*" is a gripping read with unexpected twists that keep readers engaged. However, the ending could use some refinement. At times, the narrative lags, making certain parts feel a tad boring. Overall, I'd rate it *3.5 out of 5 stars*
September 25, 2024
While I really enjoyed many aspects of this book, I felt like they were building toward something else and was disappointed when it didn’t deliver! However, it still delivered along its predictable path (which was true to its horror standing) and was an enjoyable conclusion.
May 16, 2025
I will admit that I read this one because I was intrigued by the cover and title and was honestly expecting something a bit cookie cutter and generic. I was pleasantly surprised how good it was. The story flowed evenly and was written very well. A very enjoyable (if that the right word) read.
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