Maya - A Novel: A Novel of Illusion and Self-Discovery

by Ruby Gupta

The title of the novel Maya alludes to one of the basic themes of Hindu philosophy that this world is nothing but an illusion. 

The protagonist of the novel, Viren, travels from India to the US and back to the newly formed State of Chhattisgarh (in India). 

His journey becomes an unconscious journey into the self - a quest to understand the existential angst. 

This is the larger connotation of the title. 

Maya is also the name of one of the central characters of the novel.

278 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Ruby Gupta writes crime and espionage thrillers that weave real investigations with human vulnerability, moral ambiguity, and unexpected twists. Her acclaimed novel The Secret of Leifeng Pagoda, inspired by the mysterious deaths of Indian nuclear scientists, is currently being adapted for screen. She is also the author of No Illusions in Xanadu (Bloomsbury) and A Degree in Death, which was longlisted for the Crossword Book Award.

A former journalist, Gupta brings a reporter’s curiosity and precision to her novels, grounding them in research, atmosphere, and lived detail. She was honoured as the International Writer-in-Residence at the Agatha Christie Festival in England—an experience that deepened her engagement with global mystery-writing traditions.

Ruby Gupta has published ten books, including literary nonfiction and academic titles with Cambridge University Press. Her stories often explore secrets, power, and the thin line between truth and deception, shaped by her background in investigation, communication, and long years of observing human behaviour.

She currently serves as Professor & Head of Department at the ACC Wing, Indian Military Academy, where she teaches, mentors, and continues to write. An avid traveller who has explored more than 25 countries, she often discovers her next story in an unfamiliar street, a fleeting conversation, or a quiet library somewhere far from home.

When she isn’t writing or travelling, Gupta is reading mysteries, researching obscure real-life cases, or sketching out new twists for her next thriller.

Reviews

[Rajdeep Dixit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm still thinking about what happened to the characters in this novel. Is Maya still there in her fort in the middle of nowhere in Chhattisgarh? And where is Viren? What about K.C? Ruby Gupta, you need to write a sequel to this so that we know what happens to them and do they attain enlightenment? I loved this. Who/What is the real Maya?

[Raman R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is a truly unique novel. How in the world has Ruby Gupta managed to merge Tribal culture, spirituality, myths, and religion with the modern world? I found the book extremely interesting. And the finale in the form of a mystery was too good. I love this novel and I think I will read it again....

[Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is absolutely fantastic. I always wondered about the meaning of life and this novel has answered some questions and added other dimensions to it. Plus it has so many emotions -- love, loss, tragedy...I loved this book.

[Shailja Raj · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this book would make a good movie. I can just see Maya on screen and her relationship with Viren would be so intriguing and interesting. This story with the mix of tribal India, spiritual India and modern India would be ideal for the international audience.

[Sheetal Dash]

Wow!!!!!! seems so interesting.I want to read it.

[Roma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew, what an intriguing novel! I kept wondering what could be happening in the story even after I finished the novel. The story is unique and multilayered, and I continue to ponder over it.

[Namrata Advani · Rating 5 out of 5]

My God! What a novel! Is it about God? Is it about Spirituality? Is it about relationships? I guess it is about all of this and more. It is a mystery at the end of it.

[Bhuvan Chandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Indian spirituality I thought was too complex, so I never got into it. But this story had me hooked and dragged me into mysticism and mystery all at the same time. Loved it!

[Ravi Mylarapu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story of many an Indian. So real yet so mesmerising “Sab Maya hai”.

[Kishore Saxena · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a refreshing experience

[Dr. Sakshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Very interesting novel.

[Upasana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an interesting, intriguing and a nail biting story that would not let you put down until finished and still make you ponder over it.

[Shachi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting novel 😊

[Sandeep Jaitly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting book. A must read.

[Chloe A · Rating 5 out of 5]

This synopsis really pulled me in it feels both philosophical and emotionally raw at the same time. Viren’s journey from Silicon Valley back to India already hints at such a powerful contrast between modern life and ancient wisdom, and the introduction of Maya, this mysterious and mystical woman, adds an almost otherworldly layer. I love that the story seems to ask deep questions about illusion, reality, and the true meaning of existence while also tying in very human struggles like grief, trauma, and longing. It feels like one of those books that not only tells a story but also leaves you reflecting on your own life and beliefs long after reading. For anyone who enjoys spiritual depth mixed with emotional storytelling, this sounds like a profound and rewarding read.

[Sweta · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book abruptly starts and quickly ends. It is philosophical just like shophie’s world where one individual is liberated by a guide through a series of conversation. However, the book runs around the bushes too much in the beginning and the middle of the book which can easily distract the reader to quit the book and suddenly after the middle the book catches its theme and becomes interesting to rush towards its end.

[Bandana Bisht · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author balances practical instruction with spiritual wisdom, emphasizing inner stillness, breath control, and the path to self-realization. Real-life anecdotes and scriptural references enhance the authenticity and inspiration. A must-read for those seeking a disciplined, meditative path toward higher consciousness, this book is both a guide and a spiritual companion on the yogic journey.

[Raju · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely riveting!

[Mohit Chawla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm officially hooked!