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Janardan Maity #2
Here Falls the Shadow
Think of your sins. Prepare to die.
On the edge of the forests of Deoghar, in the sleepy little town of Nimdeora, novelist Sangram Talukdar’s peaceful life is unexpectedly shattered when he receives an anonymous death threat.
At first, he dismisses it as a cruel joke. But when two of the family’s beloved dogs, guardians of the estate, are found killed with a clean, swift arrow to each of their throats, Talukdar calls in the astute detective Janardan Maity to investigate.
To uncover the dark secrets of this quiet town, Maity must dig deep into the past – into the Talukdar family’s bloody history, and a dreaded curse that has haunted the family for generations. But he must act quickly, because someone, or something, is lurking in the shadows of the forest, watching, waiting to claim their prey…
On the edge of the forests of Deoghar, in the sleepy little town of Nimdeora, novelist Sangram Talukdar’s peaceful life is unexpectedly shattered when he receives an anonymous death threat.
At first, he dismisses it as a cruel joke. But when two of the family’s beloved dogs, guardians of the estate, are found killed with a clean, swift arrow to each of their throats, Talukdar calls in the astute detective Janardan Maity to investigate.
To uncover the dark secrets of this quiet town, Maity must dig deep into the past – into the Talukdar family’s bloody history, and a dreaded curse that has haunted the family for generations. But he must act quickly, because someone, or something, is lurking in the shadows of the forest, watching, waiting to claim their prey…
256 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2017
11 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Bhaskar Chattopadhyay
17 books171 followersBhaskar Chattopadhyay is an author, translator, columnist and screenwriter. He is best known for the Janardan Maity series and for the translation of Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's iconic novel 'Aranyak'. His primary research interest is the life, literature, art and cinema of Satyajit Ray, and he has written several books on Ray. Bhaskar has also written several screenplays, all of which are in production. He teaches screenwriting to film students and aspiring filmmakers. Bhaskar lives and works in Toronto.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 10, 2017
“If you spend your time hoping someone will suffer the consequences for what they did to your heart, then you're allowing them to hurt you a second time in your mind.”
----Shannon L. Alder
Bhaskar Chattopadhyay, an Indian author, has penned a terrific and nail biting thriller, Here Falls The Shadow that surrounds around the death threat of a notable author and the killings of his family estate's dogs, as a result of which, the infamous and ingenious PI, Janardan Maity jumps to the rescue with an old acquaintance of his, into this sleepy little town covered by forests, to uncover the author's family curses, old traditions, nemesis, and many untold family secrets.
Synopsis:
Think of your sins. Prepare to die.
On the edge of the forests of Deoghar, in the sleepy little town of Nimdeora, novelist Sangram Talukdar’s peaceful life is unexpectedly shattered when he receives an anonymous death threat.
At first, he dismisses it as a cruel joke. But when two of the family’s beloved dogs, guardians of the estate, are found killed with a clean, swift arrow to each of their throats, Talukdar calls in the astute detective Janardan Maity to investigate.
To uncover the dark secrets of this quiet town, Maity must dig deep into the past – into the Talukdar family’s bloody history, and a dreaded curse that has haunted the family for generations. But he must act quickly, because someone, or something, is lurking in the shadows of the forest, watching, waiting to claim their prey.
Notable Indian author, Sangram Talukdar, has shifted from Bangalore to his family estate located in a sleepy little town in Jharkhand that is surrounded by thick, dense forests, in order to write his new novel. But within days, he finds anonymous death threat letters addressed to him and when his estate dogs are killed by arrows, Sangram requests the infamous detective, Janardan Maity to help solve the mystery. Janardan, as a result, asks one of his close acquaintances, who is also an author, Prakash, to accompany him to his sleepy forest town in Jharkhand. Together they journey to the picturesque landscape of Nimdeora, where the Talukdar family estate is located. Upon reaching, the detective duo learns about an age-old family curse that destroyed their family in subtle ways. So the father of Sangram is sure that it is happening due to a curs, but digging a bit into the family history, unravels many untold secrets and family enmity with certain individuals of this town. And looking at all the mind boggling clues, Janardan is sure that there is much more sinister mystery underlying than it seems. Can he solve the crime before the killer claims Sangram's life or someone else's?
This is the first time that I read any book by this author and while reading, I could not believe the stark similarity in the translated version's writing style as well as prose of Satyajit Ray's famous detective series called Feluda. Moreover, the main protagonist and the supporting protagonist resembles a lot with Feluda and his assistant, Topshe. Though it's hard to relate the detective, Janardan with Sherlock Holmes, yet his demeanor simulates a lot with that of our very own Feluda. Although the mystery is very tight and full of suspense, yet the characters failed to intrigue me even in a subtle way.
The author's writing style is simple and easy to comprehend with and is laced with enough tension that will grip the readers right from the very beginning of the book. The dialogues are relatable and realistic enough to engage the readers, and also with an atmospheric and eerie feel, the book will only fascinate the minds of the readers. The prose is articulate and with a pretty fast pace, where the events occur breezily and with enough depth and details that will let the readers to visualize the scenes from this book right before their own eyes.
The setting plays a paramount role in any mystery book, and so it played a great role in this book too. The vivid descriptions of the forest town, Nimdeora is well portrayed into the story line, that will let the readers feel the setting while reading this book. Not only that the author has made this sleepy town look mysterious and bit scary with all those forests and the legends of old family curses and the very cliched mists blanketing the thick dark nights of this town. Each and every detail is strikingly painted by the author, as result, the readers are bound to contemplate this town by their hearts and minds.
The characters, on the other hand, failed to enthrall me, as their demeanor are kind of predictable yet realistic enough to make them look believable in the eyes of the readers. Unfortunately, they lack any interesting trait to talk about them, neither the protagonists nor the supporting characters, no one had any unique charm in their personality to captivate my mind. Like I said, Janardan, felt to me very much similar to Feluda and his silent and calculative demeanor. So there is nothing much unique about Janardan to peak my interest in his further adventures.
In a nutshell, for those who have not Ray's Feluda series, must read it as it will compel and rivet the minds and souls, but for those who have read Ray's infamous series, can easily skip it.
Verdict: An interesting thriller set in a sleepy forest town.
Courtesy: Thanks to the publishers from Hachette India for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
----Shannon L. Alder
Bhaskar Chattopadhyay, an Indian author, has penned a terrific and nail biting thriller, Here Falls The Shadow that surrounds around the death threat of a notable author and the killings of his family estate's dogs, as a result of which, the infamous and ingenious PI, Janardan Maity jumps to the rescue with an old acquaintance of his, into this sleepy little town covered by forests, to uncover the author's family curses, old traditions, nemesis, and many untold family secrets.
Synopsis:
Think of your sins. Prepare to die.
On the edge of the forests of Deoghar, in the sleepy little town of Nimdeora, novelist Sangram Talukdar’s peaceful life is unexpectedly shattered when he receives an anonymous death threat.
At first, he dismisses it as a cruel joke. But when two of the family’s beloved dogs, guardians of the estate, are found killed with a clean, swift arrow to each of their throats, Talukdar calls in the astute detective Janardan Maity to investigate.
To uncover the dark secrets of this quiet town, Maity must dig deep into the past – into the Talukdar family’s bloody history, and a dreaded curse that has haunted the family for generations. But he must act quickly, because someone, or something, is lurking in the shadows of the forest, watching, waiting to claim their prey.
Notable Indian author, Sangram Talukdar, has shifted from Bangalore to his family estate located in a sleepy little town in Jharkhand that is surrounded by thick, dense forests, in order to write his new novel. But within days, he finds anonymous death threat letters addressed to him and when his estate dogs are killed by arrows, Sangram requests the infamous detective, Janardan Maity to help solve the mystery. Janardan, as a result, asks one of his close acquaintances, who is also an author, Prakash, to accompany him to his sleepy forest town in Jharkhand. Together they journey to the picturesque landscape of Nimdeora, where the Talukdar family estate is located. Upon reaching, the detective duo learns about an age-old family curse that destroyed their family in subtle ways. So the father of Sangram is sure that it is happening due to a curs, but digging a bit into the family history, unravels many untold secrets and family enmity with certain individuals of this town. And looking at all the mind boggling clues, Janardan is sure that there is much more sinister mystery underlying than it seems. Can he solve the crime before the killer claims Sangram's life or someone else's?
This is the first time that I read any book by this author and while reading, I could not believe the stark similarity in the translated version's writing style as well as prose of Satyajit Ray's famous detective series called Feluda. Moreover, the main protagonist and the supporting protagonist resembles a lot with Feluda and his assistant, Topshe. Though it's hard to relate the detective, Janardan with Sherlock Holmes, yet his demeanor simulates a lot with that of our very own Feluda. Although the mystery is very tight and full of suspense, yet the characters failed to intrigue me even in a subtle way.
The author's writing style is simple and easy to comprehend with and is laced with enough tension that will grip the readers right from the very beginning of the book. The dialogues are relatable and realistic enough to engage the readers, and also with an atmospheric and eerie feel, the book will only fascinate the minds of the readers. The prose is articulate and with a pretty fast pace, where the events occur breezily and with enough depth and details that will let the readers to visualize the scenes from this book right before their own eyes.
The setting plays a paramount role in any mystery book, and so it played a great role in this book too. The vivid descriptions of the forest town, Nimdeora is well portrayed into the story line, that will let the readers feel the setting while reading this book. Not only that the author has made this sleepy town look mysterious and bit scary with all those forests and the legends of old family curses and the very cliched mists blanketing the thick dark nights of this town. Each and every detail is strikingly painted by the author, as result, the readers are bound to contemplate this town by their hearts and minds.
The characters, on the other hand, failed to enthrall me, as their demeanor are kind of predictable yet realistic enough to make them look believable in the eyes of the readers. Unfortunately, they lack any interesting trait to talk about them, neither the protagonists nor the supporting characters, no one had any unique charm in their personality to captivate my mind. Like I said, Janardan, felt to me very much similar to Feluda and his silent and calculative demeanor. So there is nothing much unique about Janardan to peak my interest in his further adventures.
In a nutshell, for those who have not Ray's Feluda series, must read it as it will compel and rivet the minds and souls, but for those who have read Ray's infamous series, can easily skip it.
Verdict: An interesting thriller set in a sleepy forest town.
Courtesy: Thanks to the publishers from Hachette India for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
February 4, 2019
Bhaskar Chattopadhyay strikes again!
A novelist's life is in trouble. He has received two threatening letters and guess what! He doesn't take them seriously! Well, you won't blame him for his errors in judgement at first.
But when Sangram Talukdar arrives at his family's estate Nimdeora, his jeopardy begins to get doubled. His extremely faithful and beloved dogs get murdered and there it becomes life-threatening. Sangram Talukdar must take steps to save himself from the unknown. The detectives are not familiar with the peculiar town and they will be needing a lot of help from the locals, making their task more exciting.
Since the very first page, the reader expects a murder and he is given just that. The suspects are few, so it must be easy for the detectives, right? Wrong.
Few people in the suspect list turn out to be a difficult question. Throughout the book, the author keeps you engaged shifting your suspicion from one person to another to another.
As you approach near the end of the suspense, the criminal becomes a bit predictable but if you devotedly await for the climax scene, like I did, then you will be blessed with surprise.
The heartwarming account of Nimdeora makes the story more admirable. The setting is gothic, intelligent and suitable for a mysterious murder.
Smooth writing styles shelves the book in unputdownable category. The flow of the plot excels other attributes of this book and makes it a thrilling read. Seeing thriller writers from India makes me prouder as a reader.
A full 5 star to a fabulous work. Recommended to thriller readers.
A novelist's life is in trouble. He has received two threatening letters and guess what! He doesn't take them seriously! Well, you won't blame him for his errors in judgement at first.
But when Sangram Talukdar arrives at his family's estate Nimdeora, his jeopardy begins to get doubled. His extremely faithful and beloved dogs get murdered and there it becomes life-threatening. Sangram Talukdar must take steps to save himself from the unknown. The detectives are not familiar with the peculiar town and they will be needing a lot of help from the locals, making their task more exciting.
Since the very first page, the reader expects a murder and he is given just that. The suspects are few, so it must be easy for the detectives, right? Wrong.
Few people in the suspect list turn out to be a difficult question. Throughout the book, the author keeps you engaged shifting your suspicion from one person to another to another.
As you approach near the end of the suspense, the criminal becomes a bit predictable but if you devotedly await for the climax scene, like I did, then you will be blessed with surprise.
The heartwarming account of Nimdeora makes the story more admirable. The setting is gothic, intelligent and suitable for a mysterious murder.
Smooth writing styles shelves the book in unputdownable category. The flow of the plot excels other attributes of this book and makes it a thrilling read. Seeing thriller writers from India makes me prouder as a reader.
A full 5 star to a fabulous work. Recommended to thriller readers.
July 19, 2023
A fast-paced, Indian "Agatha Christie" styled Whodunit mystery
---
I stumbled upon Here Falls the Shadow by Bhaskar Chattopadhyay, thanks to our group's BOTM.
Janardhan Maity, a detective is summoned by the Talukdar's after Sangram, a writer starts receiving death threats. Maity travels to Nimdeora, a fictional Indian remote place to solve the mystery
The Plot, setting and climax
It was a decent experience to read the book since it was quite fast-paced and barely had a dull moment for me however, it was quite meandering. The plot had the same feeling as in an Agatha Christie novel with plenty of characters to worry about, no one seems innocent and the mystery doesn't resolve until the climax.
It had me guessing throughout about how it is gonna end.
The description of the location, ancestral palace, characters, and surroundings is probably Bhaskar's forte. He has described the setting in the best possible way. I liked that the author has given the readers a decent tour of the various settings in the book which includes Rupasi, the cabin in the Forest and of course the Talukdar's mansion.
The climax, towards the end, is full of revelations and completes every single thread in the plot except for
The Characters
Janardhan Maity seemed perfectly like a carved-out, all-knowing detective who mentally observes and plots plans to find the culprit. A little flawed character would have seemed even better.
However, the character which I disliked the most was the narrator, Prakash who gave vibes of a clingy and irritating aunt who's always questioning Maity's ways and feels depressed not having included him in it. This is one character the writer could have easily omitted.
Despite some of the flaws mentioned above, this book is an average decent read, especially for mystery lovers and I might read more from Bhaskar in the future!
---
Love reading mysteries? Check out The Devotion of Suspect X and my review of the same instead!
---
I stumbled upon Here Falls the Shadow by Bhaskar Chattopadhyay, thanks to our group's BOTM.
Janardhan Maity, a detective is summoned by the Talukdar's after Sangram, a writer starts receiving death threats. Maity travels to Nimdeora, a fictional Indian remote place to solve the mystery
The Plot, setting and climax
It was a decent experience to read the book since it was quite fast-paced and barely had a dull moment for me however, it was quite meandering. The plot had the same feeling as in an Agatha Christie novel with plenty of characters to worry about, no one seems innocent and the mystery doesn't resolve until the climax.
It had me guessing throughout about how it is gonna end.
The description of the location, ancestral palace, characters, and surroundings is probably Bhaskar's forte. He has described the setting in the best possible way. I liked that the author has given the readers a decent tour of the various settings in the book which includes Rupasi, the cabin in the Forest and of course the Talukdar's mansion.
The climax, towards the end, is full of revelations and completes every single thread in the plot except for
The Characters
Janardhan Maity seemed perfectly like a carved-out, all-knowing detective who mentally observes and plots plans to find the culprit. A little flawed character would have seemed even better.
However, the character which I disliked the most was the narrator, Prakash who gave vibes of a clingy and irritating aunt who's always questioning Maity's ways and feels depressed not having included him in it. This is one character the writer could have easily omitted.
Despite some of the flaws mentioned above, this book is an average decent read, especially for mystery lovers and I might read more from Bhaskar in the future!
---
Love reading mysteries? Check out The Devotion of Suspect X and my review of the same instead!
July 17, 2017
I was introduced to Bhaskar Chattopadhyay's writing last year when I read his book Patang. This month, I had a brilliant opportunity to spend some time with his new mystery novel, Here Falls The Shadow. And just like last time, Bhaskar Chattopadhyay has left me speechless with his intelligence and twisted mind! Here Falls The Shadow is another masterpiece in Indian Mystery Novel section and hands down a must read for everyone!
With Here Falls The Shadow, Bhaskar has brought back the old world charm of detectives. This book revolves around our very own "Indian Sherlock" Maity, who has been asked to look into a mystery, set in a sleepy town of Jharkhand known as Nimdeora. Novelist Sangram Talukdar's life has recently turned upside down when he receives a death threat. Things take an ugly turn when the two loyal dogs of his family are brutally murdered, with a clean, swift arrow to each of their throats.
Sangram requests Maity to come to Nimdeora and help him find out the culprit. He cannot go to the police due to an ugly family feud that has been going on for ages in Nimdeora. Maity tries his best to unravel the mystery, but each time he gets closer to finding the culprit, he/she slips out of his grip swiftly, leaving him and his companion Prakash "Indian Watson" flustered and irritated.
To unravel this mystery, Maity undertakes the task to dig deep into the past of Talukdar family and investigate the dreaded curse that has haunted them for years. But Maity and Prakash must act swiftly, because someone is watching them like a shadow, ready to strike for its next kill as soon as the opportunity presents.
The best things of Here Falls The Shadow are the premise of the story consisting of a sleepy down, two dead dogs, owner petrified for his life, a list of suspects including Sangram Talukdar's brother Samar Talukdar and a curse that has haunted the family for long, sets the right mood for a mystery from the very first page itself. Nimdeora has been defined beautifully by Bhaskar, which makes the setting of the story even more spooky!
Each of the characters that come in Here Falls The Shadow is linked to the story somehow, which is something I absolutely love in a book. I am not a big fan of extra characters who only do a cameo in the story and then run off to hiding, leaving me with unanswered questions. And the best part which makes Here Falls The Shadow a brilliant read is the plot.
In a mystery novel, if I am able to catch the culprit since the beginning, it's not a worthy read for me. But Bhaskar Chattopadhyay makes sure and also knows how to keep the readers hooked till the end. I had my money on some other character, but when the mystery unraveled I was left pleasantly shocked that even this could happen in the story! And if and when you read the book, you will be like "What?! He did this?!". The brilliance of twisting characters and plot comes naturally to Bhaskar I must say.
The writing is swift and easy, without much hassle you will breeze through the book satiated with the outcome. I spent a week with this book and I was hardly able to keep it down! I also noticed that Bhaskar has grown as an author with Here Falls The Shadow and that's a really nice change.
When it comes to flaws in Here Falls the Shadow, I am at a loss for words. For me, this book has everything that a mystery novel requires; an intelligent detective, a string of deliciously twisted suspects and the background setting which is mouthwatering. For me, Here Falls the Shadow is a perfect mystery novel.
Without wasting much time, I would like to conclude that Here Falls The Shadow is another entrant to my list of "Best Reads from 2017". I am mentally smacking myself for not picking up Penumbra before this, but it's never too late to read a good mystery, right?
Make sure to pick up your copy of Here Falls The Shadow, and definitely do not miss this one!
With Here Falls The Shadow, Bhaskar has brought back the old world charm of detectives. This book revolves around our very own "Indian Sherlock" Maity, who has been asked to look into a mystery, set in a sleepy town of Jharkhand known as Nimdeora. Novelist Sangram Talukdar's life has recently turned upside down when he receives a death threat. Things take an ugly turn when the two loyal dogs of his family are brutally murdered, with a clean, swift arrow to each of their throats.
Sangram requests Maity to come to Nimdeora and help him find out the culprit. He cannot go to the police due to an ugly family feud that has been going on for ages in Nimdeora. Maity tries his best to unravel the mystery, but each time he gets closer to finding the culprit, he/she slips out of his grip swiftly, leaving him and his companion Prakash "Indian Watson" flustered and irritated.
To unravel this mystery, Maity undertakes the task to dig deep into the past of Talukdar family and investigate the dreaded curse that has haunted them for years. But Maity and Prakash must act swiftly, because someone is watching them like a shadow, ready to strike for its next kill as soon as the opportunity presents.
The best things of Here Falls The Shadow are the premise of the story consisting of a sleepy down, two dead dogs, owner petrified for his life, a list of suspects including Sangram Talukdar's brother Samar Talukdar and a curse that has haunted the family for long, sets the right mood for a mystery from the very first page itself. Nimdeora has been defined beautifully by Bhaskar, which makes the setting of the story even more spooky!
Each of the characters that come in Here Falls The Shadow is linked to the story somehow, which is something I absolutely love in a book. I am not a big fan of extra characters who only do a cameo in the story and then run off to hiding, leaving me with unanswered questions. And the best part which makes Here Falls The Shadow a brilliant read is the plot.
In a mystery novel, if I am able to catch the culprit since the beginning, it's not a worthy read for me. But Bhaskar Chattopadhyay makes sure and also knows how to keep the readers hooked till the end. I had my money on some other character, but when the mystery unraveled I was left pleasantly shocked that even this could happen in the story! And if and when you read the book, you will be like "What?! He did this?!". The brilliance of twisting characters and plot comes naturally to Bhaskar I must say.
The writing is swift and easy, without much hassle you will breeze through the book satiated with the outcome. I spent a week with this book and I was hardly able to keep it down! I also noticed that Bhaskar has grown as an author with Here Falls The Shadow and that's a really nice change.
When it comes to flaws in Here Falls the Shadow, I am at a loss for words. For me, this book has everything that a mystery novel requires; an intelligent detective, a string of deliciously twisted suspects and the background setting which is mouthwatering. For me, Here Falls the Shadow is a perfect mystery novel.
Without wasting much time, I would like to conclude that Here Falls The Shadow is another entrant to my list of "Best Reads from 2017". I am mentally smacking myself for not picking up Penumbra before this, but it's never too late to read a good mystery, right?
Make sure to pick up your copy of Here Falls The Shadow, and definitely do not miss this one!
May 26, 2017
One of the best detective books by a far margin that i have read this year.
Its a return to the old vintage detective fiction and if you in any case loved Sherlock holmes or byomkesh bakshi then this will be a nostalgic joy and there will a sadness once you finish the book as you have to wait for the next book in this series.
Its a second book for the main detective Janardan Maitey and his sidekick watson aka Prakash Ray. The story happens in a fictional town of Jharkhand where a Famous Writer Sangram Talukdar has come ( his ancestor mansion is there ) and he is receiving death threats. Maitey is called to investigate it and there starts the intrigued game of who dun it. lot of people are doubted but the ending will make you surprised. ( I will be honest to say that i was not able to guess it ) . I will not spill more beans but I will only say just grab the copy and savour this book and in case you have not read the first outing of Maitey and Prakash, do grab Penumbra also.
Its a return to the old vintage detective fiction and if you in any case loved Sherlock holmes or byomkesh bakshi then this will be a nostalgic joy and there will a sadness once you finish the book as you have to wait for the next book in this series.
Its a second book for the main detective Janardan Maitey and his sidekick watson aka Prakash Ray. The story happens in a fictional town of Jharkhand where a Famous Writer Sangram Talukdar has come ( his ancestor mansion is there ) and he is receiving death threats. Maitey is called to investigate it and there starts the intrigued game of who dun it. lot of people are doubted but the ending will make you surprised. ( I will be honest to say that i was not able to guess it ) . I will not spill more beans but I will only say just grab the copy and savour this book and in case you have not read the first outing of Maitey and Prakash, do grab Penumbra also.
July 4, 2023
Rating: 2.5
Okayish, considering all the good reviews I saw before buying the book, it didn't live up to the billing.
Okayish, considering all the good reviews I saw before buying the book, it didn't live up to the billing.
July 13, 2019
3.5/5 While the previous book in the Janardan Maity series which was an English country-house mystery, this one was inspired by "The Hound of the Baskervilles". The author sets it up well, some scenes are chilling but because I have read the original, I could guess some of the twists. Unfortunately, the explanation of the entire affair was too far-fetched else this would have been rated higher. Also think the author's detective - Janardan Maity has a bland personality.
July 10, 2023
3.5 Stars
It started at a comfortable pace with more than enough time to grasp details and things happening. I found some details to be unnecessary and extended.
The climax could have been better. Maity explaining everything crossed more than a chapter and became a little boring.
The motives were not that surprising. One could sense some connection between Tushar and Sneha, although I must appreciate the author's thinking to wrap up a nice mystery.
It is perfect for a short and enjoyable Sunday read. Do give it a try
It started at a comfortable pace with more than enough time to grasp details and things happening. I found some details to be unnecessary and extended.
The climax could have been better. Maity explaining everything crossed more than a chapter and became a little boring.
The motives were not that surprising. One could sense some connection between Tushar and Sneha, although I must appreciate the author's thinking to wrap up a nice mystery.
It is perfect for a short and enjoyable Sunday read. Do give it a try
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2017
The perfect cosy thriller that has vintage who done it?. Again, Chattopadhyay does a crazy job with character and plot details, with the twists placed most accurately that every whodunit demands. The setting, characters etc. are beautifully plotted and lures the reader into getting involved in the process The something that is sure to give you a fantastic value for time. Read the book if you've exhausted all of vintage classics and are itching for a new, vintage Detective in town! Here falls the shadow shall not disappoint you!
I absolutely loved this book!!!. Wonderful twists and turns
I absolutely loved this book!!!. Wonderful twists and turns
August 7, 2018
Suspenseful thriller, lots of red herrings thrown in to distract the reader, climax was good though I felt that the motivations of the killer could have been dwelt upon a bit more. Nevertheless, an enjoyable read, Bhaskar da never lets the suspense factor down thus making this book the proverbial page turner.
December 8, 2020
This book stands on the same note as that of any other dectective-solving-murder story. In fact the themes of this book is extremely similar to that of Sherlock Holmes and Bomkyesh Bakshi, the protagonists and supporting characters are as well. The way of telling the story and some plot twists are very predictable, though there's a twist at the end of the novel. This is a classic plot which includes the big reveal by the detective leaving everyone perplexed and pondering. The only difference is the story but by the end the upcoming twist becomes apparent too. This one will remind you of old detective novels for sure.
The plot starts with novelist Sangram Talukdar receiving death threats,which expectedly the character does, and that leaves him with his two dogs murdered, at night by arrows. Upon this senseless killing he calls upon Janardan Maity, to solve the case, and he in turn calls Prakash Ray to accompany and travel with him. Together the duo sets off on a journey of discovering the details of the history of the family. They learn about a curse that has plagued his entire family across generations and has resulted in the misfortune of all men in the family. The dark history of the family intertwined along with the adventures makes this book a light and predictable read.
I'll give this book a 3 out of 5 because of it's sheer predictability though the author, Bhaskar Chattopadhyay does a good job.
-Anshula
@thebookishlawyer (IG)
The plot starts with novelist Sangram Talukdar receiving death threats,which expectedly the character does, and that leaves him with his two dogs murdered, at night by arrows. Upon this senseless killing he calls upon Janardan Maity, to solve the case, and he in turn calls Prakash Ray to accompany and travel with him. Together the duo sets off on a journey of discovering the details of the history of the family. They learn about a curse that has plagued his entire family across generations and has resulted in the misfortune of all men in the family. The dark history of the family intertwined along with the adventures makes this book a light and predictable read.
I'll give this book a 3 out of 5 because of it's sheer predictability though the author, Bhaskar Chattopadhyay does a good job.
-Anshula
@thebookishlawyer (IG)
July 29, 2018
What did I just read….. Was it real? Yup this was the first thing that came to my mind after finishing the book.
Mr. Janardan Maity (detective) visits Nimdeora, on invitation by Mr Sangram to help him to find the person giving him the death threat. And Mr. Maity is accompanied by his best friend, a novelist who wanted to explore to find new theme for his next book (And entire book is written from his point of view). Firstly, Mr. Maity discovers the ugly truth about the ancestors of the Mr. Sangram and finds out that there is a curse on them and hence the reason for the death note and murder of the dogs. Everyone believed that the ghost of Vidhu Raja is responsible for all the mishappenings. But Mr. Maity was not the kind of person to believe in spirits, so he started looking for the logical reasons to the events happening in the house. As one by one as characters come into the picture, story becomes even more intriguing and thrilling. Everyone seems to be a potential suspect. But of course the ultimate person was ………. (you have to read the book to know about that).
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Mr. Janardan Maity (detective) visits Nimdeora, on invitation by Mr Sangram to help him to find the person giving him the death threat. And Mr. Maity is accompanied by his best friend, a novelist who wanted to explore to find new theme for his next book (And entire book is written from his point of view). Firstly, Mr. Maity discovers the ugly truth about the ancestors of the Mr. Sangram and finds out that there is a curse on them and hence the reason for the death note and murder of the dogs. Everyone believed that the ghost of Vidhu Raja is responsible for all the mishappenings. But Mr. Maity was not the kind of person to believe in spirits, so he started looking for the logical reasons to the events happening in the house. As one by one as characters come into the picture, story becomes even more intriguing and thrilling. Everyone seems to be a potential suspect. But of course the ultimate person was ………. (you have to read the book to know about that).
More on https://sidbookreviewer.wordpress.com...
September 13, 2017
Sangram Talukdar is a novelist who has moved into his family’s estate at Nimdeora, near Deoghar with hopes of leading a peaceful life. But what he assumes is a practical joke leads to something much deadlier. A death threat note followed by the murder of the two watch dogs of the estate prompts Sangram to hire a detective. Detective Janardan arrives at Nimdeora accompanied by another author by the name of Prakash. As they delve into the threat to Sangram, they discover that there may be more to the fabled curse on the family. Will Janardan and Prakash be able to suss out the perpetrator before it is too late?
I enjoyed this book thoroughly. Set in a quaint little town, this mystery required exercising the ‘grey cells’ quite a bit. Janardan is an interesting character to follow even with his similarities to Feluda. He is a calculative person whose investigative methods keep the readers engaged.
Read the full review on Bookish Indulgences with b00k r3vi3ws
I enjoyed this book thoroughly. Set in a quaint little town, this mystery required exercising the ‘grey cells’ quite a bit. Janardan is an interesting character to follow even with his similarities to Feluda. He is a calculative person whose investigative methods keep the readers engaged.
Read the full review on Bookish Indulgences with b00k r3vi3ws
June 30, 2021
Very beautifully executed!! What a great read...
Really looking forward to his next adventures!!
Really looking forward to his next adventures!!
August 29, 2019
"Here Falls the Shadow" is a cozy murder mystery, which reminds us of vintage classics. The detective Janardan Maity comes across as a mix of Holmes and Feluda. The name of the detective and it's the true meaning is also highly interesting. Was strongly reminded of Satyajit Ray. The of a sleepy mysterious town with surrounding forests and the legends of an old family curse is very apt with this particular story. And what I was amazed to learn was that the setting was a totally imaginary place. Hats off to the author. I have become a fan and look forward to more stories from him. He has truly satiated my need for a good old murder mystery with a true blue intelligent detective who always gets the culprit in the end.
July 22, 2017
We really don't get to read such mystery novels these days.
A secluded, densely forested, and hilly place.
A sleepy town in the grip of winter.
A family bleeding to death amidst legends of curse, tragedies, and death.
Mysterious characters. Sinister atmosphere.
People who are quite different from what they seem.
And murder!
Overall, this dense but breezy novel, full of gothic elements, and yet encouraging the reader to solve the mystery together with Janardan Maity, our protagonist, turned out to be quite enjoyable, while stimulating the little grey cells.
Recommended.
A secluded, densely forested, and hilly place.
A sleepy town in the grip of winter.
A family bleeding to death amidst legends of curse, tragedies, and death.
Mysterious characters. Sinister atmosphere.
People who are quite different from what they seem.
And murder!
Overall, this dense but breezy novel, full of gothic elements, and yet encouraging the reader to solve the mystery together with Janardan Maity, our protagonist, turned out to be quite enjoyable, while stimulating the little grey cells.
Recommended.
July 27, 2017
This book represents a laudable effort to recreate a Golden Age Mystery (specifically Dickson Carr?) in current-day India. The setting (a remote mansion bordering a forest) and a curse from the past are reminiscent of many stories written during the Golden Age.
The book, however, falls short on some fronts. Firstly, the atmosphere is missing, and that’s not for want of trying. The curse is under-exploited and is allowed to wane away. The atmosphere that Carr so effortlessly created is perhaps aspired for here, but not realised. Secondly, the language is rather flat. That took me by surprise, as the language in the author’s earlier book was crisp and a plus point. Here, it feels rather amateurish. And finally, the book uses multiple hackneyed elements that were perhaps overused during the Golden Age. It robbed the book of the perception of originality. That’s sad, as the plot itself is original.
If you haven’t read many old mysteries, you are more likely to enjoy this. But if have read tons of them, you may feel like how I felt when I watched Bees Saal Baad after reading The Hound of Baskervilles.
That said, the book moves along at a fast clip, and is more credible than Patang, the author’s earlier book. The book gives you the opportunity to spend a few hours away from a bustling city. It keeps you engrossed, and doesn't meander very much. The book is worth a read.
The book, however, falls short on some fronts. Firstly, the atmosphere is missing, and that’s not for want of trying. The curse is under-exploited and is allowed to wane away. The atmosphere that Carr so effortlessly created is perhaps aspired for here, but not realised. Secondly, the language is rather flat. That took me by surprise, as the language in the author’s earlier book was crisp and a plus point. Here, it feels rather amateurish. And finally, the book uses multiple hackneyed elements that were perhaps overused during the Golden Age. It robbed the book of the perception of originality. That’s sad, as the plot itself is original.
If you haven’t read many old mysteries, you are more likely to enjoy this. But if have read tons of them, you may feel like how I felt when I watched Bees Saal Baad after reading The Hound of Baskervilles.
That said, the book moves along at a fast clip, and is more credible than Patang, the author’s earlier book. The book gives you the opportunity to spend a few hours away from a bustling city. It keeps you engrossed, and doesn't meander very much. The book is worth a read.
September 2, 2017
The second book involving Janardan Maity and Prakash Dey is as good as the first one, if not better. Well written and taut, it never let's your attention waver fir a second and yet, the ending remains shocking and revealing at the same time. Interesting ensemble of characters, a hint of the supernatural thrown in and the setting of a quaint small sleepy town, all add to this book which relies heavily and rightly in the atmosphere. Enjoyed the book and couldn't rest till I had finished it. LooKing forward for more adventures of this duo.
July 7, 2017
Minor spoiler ahead:
I don't read many newbie Indian Writers. They don't know the art of writing. Neither the technique, nor the words. And let's not even get into the reading experience. And I don't blame them.
After Patang, however, I must admit - Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is the gem I had to look out for. Fast paced and almost Bollywoodish in its plot, the book was a delight for those seeking a roller coaster ride into thrillers.
With Penumbra, the Writer ventured into slow-paced, character oriented, cosy crime. Although a tad bit Christie-ish in storytelling, the resolution of the plot still left me baffled as a reader - and of course, wanting more of the sleuth, Janardan Maity, & his apprentice, Prakash Ray.
With Here Falls the Shadow, Bhaskar Chattopadhyay will instill your faith in good cosy crime fiction popping out of India!
Foggy wintry hilly landscapes. A mansion at the edge of a forest, in the middle of nowhere. A dysfunctional family with a past. And a Detective called over from elsewhere to solve the problem of a looming threat over Sangram Talukdar, masked under a curse that had settled over the family for decades. And too many clues scattered for the reader. A recipe that can easily go wrong - but trust Chattopadhyay to weave his pen so adroitly, that not a single moment passed by as dull or predictable or even close to Christie-ish. Although you can imagine Maity to very well be a Bengali version of our Favourite Monsieur Poirot!
The book is peppered with sneaky characters, each of whom had something up their sleeve. The plot weaves like a smooth ride till it's resolution wherein you'll be left bewildered as to the identity of the perpetrator. Yet again. Aside that, the storytelling prowess of Chattopadhyay will keep you stuck into the convincing descriptions of the mansion and of the seemingly outstanding Jharkhandi panorama - vacation goals much? The research done on not only the book material but also on the readers was worthy of an applause - he knows exactly what his readers don't read! Well played, sir, well played!
A couple of negatives though ...
In comparison, Prakash Ray had little to do and the entire onus of solving the crime seemingly falls on Maity. I do wish he had a bit more contribution (significant) towards Maity's deduction process, rather than just as a prop in letting the drama unfold. Also, the need for emphasising so much on the publishing industry & the author bit about Talukdar with little impact on the plot did seem to slide a little overboard ... maybe something the author just felt too close to heart for writing ... but not foraying deeper into it (cf The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith).
That said, on the whole, the book is a fascinating read! Here Falls The Shadow, on the whole, is a delightful weekend read, owing to a brilliant storytelling, beautiful celluloid descriptions & of corse, the outstanding unpredictability of the whodunit. Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is, I repeat, the gem in Indian crime fiction you ought to look out for!
I don't read many newbie Indian Writers. They don't know the art of writing. Neither the technique, nor the words. And let's not even get into the reading experience. And I don't blame them.
After Patang, however, I must admit - Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is the gem I had to look out for. Fast paced and almost Bollywoodish in its plot, the book was a delight for those seeking a roller coaster ride into thrillers.
With Penumbra, the Writer ventured into slow-paced, character oriented, cosy crime. Although a tad bit Christie-ish in storytelling, the resolution of the plot still left me baffled as a reader - and of course, wanting more of the sleuth, Janardan Maity, & his apprentice, Prakash Ray.
With Here Falls the Shadow, Bhaskar Chattopadhyay will instill your faith in good cosy crime fiction popping out of India!
Foggy wintry hilly landscapes. A mansion at the edge of a forest, in the middle of nowhere. A dysfunctional family with a past. And a Detective called over from elsewhere to solve the problem of a looming threat over Sangram Talukdar, masked under a curse that had settled over the family for decades. And too many clues scattered for the reader. A recipe that can easily go wrong - but trust Chattopadhyay to weave his pen so adroitly, that not a single moment passed by as dull or predictable or even close to Christie-ish. Although you can imagine Maity to very well be a Bengali version of our Favourite Monsieur Poirot!
The book is peppered with sneaky characters, each of whom had something up their sleeve. The plot weaves like a smooth ride till it's resolution wherein you'll be left bewildered as to the identity of the perpetrator. Yet again. Aside that, the storytelling prowess of Chattopadhyay will keep you stuck into the convincing descriptions of the mansion and of the seemingly outstanding Jharkhandi panorama - vacation goals much? The research done on not only the book material but also on the readers was worthy of an applause - he knows exactly what his readers don't read! Well played, sir, well played!
A couple of negatives though ...
In comparison, Prakash Ray had little to do and the entire onus of solving the crime seemingly falls on Maity. I do wish he had a bit more contribution (significant) towards Maity's deduction process, rather than just as a prop in letting the drama unfold. Also, the need for emphasising so much on the publishing industry & the author bit about Talukdar with little impact on the plot did seem to slide a little overboard ... maybe something the author just felt too close to heart for writing ... but not foraying deeper into it (cf The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith).
That said, on the whole, the book is a fascinating read! Here Falls The Shadow, on the whole, is a delightful weekend read, owing to a brilliant storytelling, beautiful celluloid descriptions & of corse, the outstanding unpredictability of the whodunit. Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is, I repeat, the gem in Indian crime fiction you ought to look out for!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
I finished Here Falls the Shadow this morning, with that peculiar satisfaction that comes from returning to a fictional world you know well enough to walk through blindfolded, yet one that still manages to shuffle its furniture around while you’re asleep.
Janardan Maity, with his precise manner and patient investigative style, remains as magnetic as he was in his first outing, but here Bhaskar Chattopadhyay sharpens the stakes and deepens the shadows—literally and metaphorically.
The story opens in the familiar register of a classic whodunit: a murder in a setting that feels contained but charged, a small constellation of suspects, and the promise that Maity will piece it all together before we do.
But as I turned the pages over my morning tea, I realised Chattopadhyay was playing a longer, subtler game. The pleasure here isn’t just in the unmasking of the culprit—it’s in watching Maity’s mind at work, the way he listens to what’s being said, what’s being withheld, and what’s being dressed up in the polite camouflage of half-truths.
Compared to the first book, this one feels moodier, with a stronger pull toward psychological unease. Chattopadhyay uses atmosphere like a craftsman—small sounds, changes in light, the texture of a room—to keep you on edge. Even the pauses in dialogue start to feel like evidence. By the time Maity walks into the final reveal, you realise you’ve been led through a maze without noticing the turns.
Reading it this morning reminded me why I enjoy detective fiction in series form. You get the continuity of a trusted guide, but the terrain shifts each time.
Here Falls the Shadow is more than just another case for Maity—it’s a study in how darkness, once invited in, spreads to every corner of a story. And now, of course, I’m left with the reader’s double hunger: the satisfaction of a case closed, and the itch for the next one.
Janardan Maity, with his precise manner and patient investigative style, remains as magnetic as he was in his first outing, but here Bhaskar Chattopadhyay sharpens the stakes and deepens the shadows—literally and metaphorically.
The story opens in the familiar register of a classic whodunit: a murder in a setting that feels contained but charged, a small constellation of suspects, and the promise that Maity will piece it all together before we do.
But as I turned the pages over my morning tea, I realised Chattopadhyay was playing a longer, subtler game. The pleasure here isn’t just in the unmasking of the culprit—it’s in watching Maity’s mind at work, the way he listens to what’s being said, what’s being withheld, and what’s being dressed up in the polite camouflage of half-truths.
Compared to the first book, this one feels moodier, with a stronger pull toward psychological unease. Chattopadhyay uses atmosphere like a craftsman—small sounds, changes in light, the texture of a room—to keep you on edge. Even the pauses in dialogue start to feel like evidence. By the time Maity walks into the final reveal, you realise you’ve been led through a maze without noticing the turns.
Reading it this morning reminded me why I enjoy detective fiction in series form. You get the continuity of a trusted guide, but the terrain shifts each time.
Here Falls the Shadow is more than just another case for Maity—it’s a study in how darkness, once invited in, spreads to every corner of a story. And now, of course, I’m left with the reader’s double hunger: the satisfaction of a case closed, and the itch for the next one.
May 26, 2017
One of the best detective books by a far margin that i have read this year.
Its a return to the old vintage detective fiction and if you in any case loved Sherlock holmes or byomkesh bakshi then this will be a nostalgic joy and there will a sadness once you finish the book as you have to wait for the next book in this series.
Its a second book for the main detective Janardan Maitey and his sidekick watson aka Prakash Ray. The story happens in a fictional town of Jharkhand where a Famous Writer Sangram Talukdar has come ( his ancestor mansion is there ) and he is receiving death threats. Maitey is called to investigate it and there starts the intrigued game of who dun it. lot of people are doubted but the ending will make you surprised. ( I wil be honest to say that i was not able to guess it ) . I will not spill more beans but I will only say just grab the copy and savour this book and in case you have not read the first outing of Maitey and Prakash, do grab Penumbra also.
Its a return to the old vintage detective fiction and if you in any case loved Sherlock holmes or byomkesh bakshi then this will be a nostalgic joy and there will a sadness once you finish the book as you have to wait for the next book in this series.
Its a second book for the main detective Janardan Maitey and his sidekick watson aka Prakash Ray. The story happens in a fictional town of Jharkhand where a Famous Writer Sangram Talukdar has come ( his ancestor mansion is there ) and he is receiving death threats. Maitey is called to investigate it and there starts the intrigued game of who dun it. lot of people are doubted but the ending will make you surprised. ( I wil be honest to say that i was not able to guess it ) . I will not spill more beans but I will only say just grab the copy and savour this book and in case you have not read the first outing of Maitey and Prakash, do grab Penumbra also.
June 23, 2020
After reading 'The disappearance of Sally Sequeira' I was looking forward to read this book. (I am going reverse rather than starting from the first book ).
The plot of this book is quite interesting and the writer has made sure that the reader will not put this book down till finished. To give a glimpse of the plot I will say that "Novelist Sangram Talukdar's peaceful life in Nimdeora, unexpectedly shattered when he receives an anonymous death threat."
This book is written in such a way that one can clearly imagine what is happening without missing a minute detail for example the description of Talukdar's house. There are few incidents that make the reader tense and we imagine ourselves in the shoe of Prakash(Janardan Maity's friend). Janardan Maity is a great protagonist as he breaks the stereotypical image of detectives who claim to know all.
Glad to see so well written modern Indian detective series.
The plot of this book is quite interesting and the writer has made sure that the reader will not put this book down till finished. To give a glimpse of the plot I will say that "Novelist Sangram Talukdar's peaceful life in Nimdeora, unexpectedly shattered when he receives an anonymous death threat."
This book is written in such a way that one can clearly imagine what is happening without missing a minute detail for example the description of Talukdar's house. There are few incidents that make the reader tense and we imagine ourselves in the shoe of Prakash(Janardan Maity's friend). Janardan Maity is a great protagonist as he breaks the stereotypical image of detectives who claim to know all.
Glad to see so well written modern Indian detective series.
April 7, 2022
Being an ardent fan of the protagonist Mr. Janardan Maity, I was looking forward to immerse in his world once again and was mesmerized by the characters, the plot and the big reveal. Jharkhand which forms the backdrop of this novel has been beautifully described with sprinkles of its history, culture and its charm.
The best thing I like about Mr. Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is that, his books make you traverse into good old days of a perfect crime novel in its truest form. It's always a worth a wait to see what comes next and for sure you never get disappointed. A page-turner indeed.
Mr. Maity may be compared to Sherlock or Poirot or Byomkesh even but as he himself admits he is not a detective but like one of us, with some special skills and that makes him different from others and the charm with which the author portrays the characters and the setting of the scenes is always a delight to read.
The best thing I like about Mr. Bhaskar Chattopadhyay is that, his books make you traverse into good old days of a perfect crime novel in its truest form. It's always a worth a wait to see what comes next and for sure you never get disappointed. A page-turner indeed.
Mr. Maity may be compared to Sherlock or Poirot or Byomkesh even but as he himself admits he is not a detective but like one of us, with some special skills and that makes him different from others and the charm with which the author portrays the characters and the setting of the scenes is always a delight to read.
February 14, 2020
I liked the author's previous book Penumbra in the Janardhan Maity series. It was a cozy book with a good twist at the end. The good part is that the story did not conceal any clues or did not conjure up clues at the end(that were hidden from the reader). The clues are actually sprinkled all over the story and at good intervals. If you are really a good detective and have an attention to details you can guess it along with the detective. I will not say it is guessable even then.
Coming to the this book, it follows the same template. I felt that the premise at which the story takes place is pretty similar to the one from Penumbra. The mystery is well-laid and solidly executed with good character development. It is a quick read and a very good one. Will definitely recommend the author, the book and the series to other fellow readers
Coming to the this book, it follows the same template. I felt that the premise at which the story takes place is pretty similar to the one from Penumbra. The mystery is well-laid and solidly executed with good character development. It is a quick read and a very good one. Will definitely recommend the author, the book and the series to other fellow readers
July 19, 2020
Here Falls The Shadow- By Bhaskar Chattopadhyay
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I have only one word for this.... WOW!!!!!🤩🤩🤩
Man....!! This one is MIND-BOGGLING..... My first ever book mystery genre which kept me on the edge while reading. If you love reading thrillers and mysteries, this book is absolutely for you. I was unable to keep it aside and infact I got tense and excited while reading it especially at night.
.
The story itself starts with a suspense in a small town called Nimdeora. It's written in very simple language but the plot gets more and more mysterious as you read
.
Well I don't want to give any spoilers. But believe me guys do read this once especially those who love mysteries and love to experience goosebumps while reading....
.
Also I would like if you recommend me few books which have mysteries and thrills and will give me spooky chills while reading😊
--------------
I have only one word for this.... WOW!!!!!🤩🤩🤩
Man....!! This one is MIND-BOGGLING..... My first ever book mystery genre which kept me on the edge while reading. If you love reading thrillers and mysteries, this book is absolutely for you. I was unable to keep it aside and infact I got tense and excited while reading it especially at night.
.
The story itself starts with a suspense in a small town called Nimdeora. It's written in very simple language but the plot gets more and more mysterious as you read
.
Well I don't want to give any spoilers. But believe me guys do read this once especially those who love mysteries and love to experience goosebumps while reading....
.
Also I would like if you recommend me few books which have mysteries and thrills and will give me spooky chills while reading😊
January 19, 2025
This book is definitely a step-up from its predecessor PENUMBRA as the mystery is more layered, but I still don't appreciate the way the author again chooses to introduce a minor dues ex-machina in the climax to solve the mystery. But, barring that slight grievance of mine, this book is brilliantly written, briskly paced and contains a very intriguing enigma at its core that's twisty and puzzling in equal measures. I am not so sure about the author's decision to purposely hold crucial information from readers to make the mystery more tantalizing, but it is what it is, I guess. Also after reading two books from this series, I don't quite like the character of the story's narrator Prakash, who at times feels way too clingy and immature.
But overall though, I loved this book and am eagerly waiting for the next adventure of Mr. Maity.
But overall though, I loved this book and am eagerly waiting for the next adventure of Mr. Maity.
October 16, 2021
Genre- MURDER MYSTERY
*PAGES - 256
* MRP - INR 350 .
"THINK OF YOUR SINS. PREPARE TO DIE " - SOUNDS INTRIGUING ENOUGH RIGHT?? .
Well, the synopsis follows a captivating and enigmatic plot to compel the readers to eye the inside!
.
The story follows a typical DETECTIVE SOLVING MURDER with all the loose ends being neatly tied at the end.
Plot development and characterization are well built with an UNPREDICTABLE climax!
.
One can find moments of suspense, twists and turns with a flavor of spine chilling thrill in different parts of the book , ONLY IN BITS AND PIECES!
.
CONS -Mainly, the pace of the story and excessive exaggeration of visual imagery of the surrounding sometime bored me to skip some portion!! .
Much recommended to the beginners of this genre!!
*PAGES - 256
* MRP - INR 350 .
"THINK OF YOUR SINS. PREPARE TO DIE " - SOUNDS INTRIGUING ENOUGH RIGHT?? .
Well, the synopsis follows a captivating and enigmatic plot to compel the readers to eye the inside!
.
The story follows a typical DETECTIVE SOLVING MURDER with all the loose ends being neatly tied at the end.
Plot development and characterization are well built with an UNPREDICTABLE climax!
.
One can find moments of suspense, twists and turns with a flavor of spine chilling thrill in different parts of the book , ONLY IN BITS AND PIECES!
.
CONS -Mainly, the pace of the story and excessive exaggeration of visual imagery of the surrounding sometime bored me to skip some portion!! .
Much recommended to the beginners of this genre!!
August 11, 2017
Another classic whodunit from Mr. Bhaskar Chattopadhyay. I liked it better than its prequel 'Penumbra' in terms of the story-telling and character development. Family secrets play an important role in this book as well. There are several interesting characters in the story (and hurray! for the presence of an Assamese character) and the story never gets boring. The small town setting of the events make the story even better. It was a gripping read throughout and I am really enjoying the Hercule Poirot-esque Janardhan Maity series so far. I am eagerly looking forward to more books in the series.
June 15, 2017
The second book of the series after "Penumbra".
Once in a while there comes a thriller that breaks the stereotypical formulae and manages to surprise you. It has all the elements of the classic detective era stories - a intriguing and complex plot with all the suspense, fine details and character dissections, making the novel the page-turner that it is. The book takes the reader into a vintage journey of the classic whodunit, where detection is purely logic-based. I can surely vouch it to be at par with novels from the Holmes, Byomkesh and Poirot cannon. Highly recommended!!
Once in a while there comes a thriller that breaks the stereotypical formulae and manages to surprise you. It has all the elements of the classic detective era stories - a intriguing and complex plot with all the suspense, fine details and character dissections, making the novel the page-turner that it is. The book takes the reader into a vintage journey of the classic whodunit, where detection is purely logic-based. I can surely vouch it to be at par with novels from the Holmes, Byomkesh and Poirot cannon. Highly recommended!!
April 25, 2021
This book has a 'Feluda' feeling from the start. After a long time I read a mystery thriller which gave me that feeling of dejavu. What I like most about the story is that, unlike current mystery thrillers, it doesn't have an underlying adult theme (like Feluda) & hence can be read by everyone.
The plot was gripping with a fitting unthinkable but not improbable end twist. The writing & flow was impeccable too.
The character buid ups could have been better though. But the overall experience was satisfying.
The plot was gripping with a fitting unthinkable but not improbable end twist. The writing & flow was impeccable too.
The character buid ups could have been better though. But the overall experience was satisfying.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews