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The Timingila
Who is the hero of a story? The one who is brave and honourable, or the one who survives to tell the story?
Which is the more powerful weapon? The one that wins battles, or the one that wins the minds of people?
Set in the ancient land of Jivavarta, 'The Timingila' is the story of Trishala, a weak kingdom at the mercy of its neighbours, and Tasvak, the unwanted child of its king.
When a series of unexpected events put Trishala under a tyrant's control, Tasvak is forced into a web of deception as he struggles to resurrect Trishala's lost glory. Along the way, he has to deal with fanatics, assassins, victims, and reformers. Facing manipulation and betrayal at every step, will Tasvak succeed?
'The Timingila' is a fast-paced thriller written as a series of short chapters.
Which is the more powerful weapon? The one that wins battles, or the one that wins the minds of people?
Set in the ancient land of Jivavarta, 'The Timingila' is the story of Trishala, a weak kingdom at the mercy of its neighbours, and Tasvak, the unwanted child of its king.
When a series of unexpected events put Trishala under a tyrant's control, Tasvak is forced into a web of deception as he struggles to resurrect Trishala's lost glory. Along the way, he has to deal with fanatics, assassins, victims, and reformers. Facing manipulation and betrayal at every step, will Tasvak succeed?
'The Timingila' is a fast-paced thriller written as a series of short chapters.
- GenresFantasy
297 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2018
1 person is currently reading
491 people want to read
About the author
Shon Mehta
8 books12 followersShon Mehta (Sheetal Mehta) is an author and philosopher best known for creating the Jivavarta Framework, a secular, grounded storytelling and philosophical universe used to explore sociopolitical themes through literature. Her work focuses on human resilience, social justice, and ethical frameworks, moving beyond traditional fiction into the realm of educational and social reform.
Her debut novel, "The Timingila," earned widespread praise for its sharp critique of class systems and its vivid portrayal of an outcast prince’s fight for identity. Her second major work, "Lair of the Monster," delves into the quiet, often overlooked suffering of commoners in a land torn apart by war and political decay.
Beyond the Page: Shon Mehta’s influence extends beyond her literary works, with her story "A Girl Who Asked Why" being adapted into a short film that won the Best Student Film Award at the ANMTN! International Animation Film Festival. Her work has also made a global impact, crossing from the bookshelf into classrooms worldwide, where it has become a tool for change in several countries.
In India: Her story "The Girl Who Asked Why" is a part of the official Class 10 curriculum in Chhattisgarh (SCERT), teaching gender equality and critical thinking to millions.
Globally: Her literature is featured in the Oxford University Press (Headway 5e) series, included in the undergraduate syllabus at Mahatma Gandhi University, and is required reading in schools across the USA (Woodlawn School), the Philippines, and Kenya.
Social Reform: Her parables are widely used in South Asia for gender sensitization and social justice advocacy.
Her latest work, "The Uncharted Mind (2025)," continues her philosophical journey, exploring personal growth and social reflections through the lens of modern psychology and ancient wisdom.
Although prolific in her writing, she is reticent and socially solitary.
Her debut novel, "The Timingila," earned widespread praise for its sharp critique of class systems and its vivid portrayal of an outcast prince’s fight for identity. Her second major work, "Lair of the Monster," delves into the quiet, often overlooked suffering of commoners in a land torn apart by war and political decay.
Beyond the Page: Shon Mehta’s influence extends beyond her literary works, with her story "A Girl Who Asked Why" being adapted into a short film that won the Best Student Film Award at the ANMTN! International Animation Film Festival. Her work has also made a global impact, crossing from the bookshelf into classrooms worldwide, where it has become a tool for change in several countries.
In India: Her story "The Girl Who Asked Why" is a part of the official Class 10 curriculum in Chhattisgarh (SCERT), teaching gender equality and critical thinking to millions.
Globally: Her literature is featured in the Oxford University Press (Headway 5e) series, included in the undergraduate syllabus at Mahatma Gandhi University, and is required reading in schools across the USA (Woodlawn School), the Philippines, and Kenya.
Social Reform: Her parables are widely used in South Asia for gender sensitization and social justice advocacy.
Her latest work, "The Uncharted Mind (2025)," continues her philosophical journey, exploring personal growth and social reflections through the lens of modern psychology and ancient wisdom.
Although prolific in her writing, she is reticent and socially solitary.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 27, 2018
Part adventure, part fantasy, part thriller novel. Every chapter is like one episode of the story. The plot is complex, it is about lowborn prince and his fight for the survival, and the monk and his fight to achieve the eternal glory.
At first, I was little overwhelmed by the speed of narration, and by different sounding Indian names, once novel progressed it became easy to remember.
What I loved most about the book is, it's ending. Many times novels create this immense built up and then they don't deliver. This is where "The Timingila" is different.
"The Timingila' gives clean finish, no lose ends. Whatever we read throughout the novel becomes clear. The book ends on highest note.
4.5 for novel and .5 for the quotes, its five star from me.
At first, I was little overwhelmed by the speed of narration, and by different sounding Indian names, once novel progressed it became easy to remember.
What I loved most about the book is, it's ending. Many times novels create this immense built up and then they don't deliver. This is where "The Timingila" is different.
"The Timingila' gives clean finish, no lose ends. Whatever we read throughout the novel becomes clear. The book ends on highest note.
4.5 for novel and .5 for the quotes, its five star from me.
April 23, 2018
A Breath Of Fresh Air.
I just finished reading the ARC of "The Timingila", and am blown away by it.
I love fantasy, but many fantasy books are too descriptive for my taste.
This book is not a typical high fantasy, as there is no magic, and there are no magical creatures. Based in the ancient world of Jivavarta, the story narrates the journey of three underdogs towards greatness; a fallen kingdom, a nascent faith, and a fugitive prince.
The crisp banter between the characters is delight to read. My favorites being:
"Maybe I am a villain in your story, but I am a hero in mine."
"Don’t underestimate the power of weapons. A novice with a powerful weapon is deadlier than a warrior with a stick.”
Twists in the plot with grey but believable characters compels you to keep reading further. I have never become so immersed in a book before.
If you like descriptive magical fantasies, this book is not for you. However, if you are looking for fast-paced entertainer with gripping characters and a storyline based in an ancient exotic world, this is must read.
Rating 4.7/5 Rounding up 5
I just finished reading the ARC of "The Timingila", and am blown away by it.
I love fantasy, but many fantasy books are too descriptive for my taste.
This book is not a typical high fantasy, as there is no magic, and there are no magical creatures. Based in the ancient world of Jivavarta, the story narrates the journey of three underdogs towards greatness; a fallen kingdom, a nascent faith, and a fugitive prince.
The crisp banter between the characters is delight to read. My favorites being:
"Maybe I am a villain in your story, but I am a hero in mine."
"Don’t underestimate the power of weapons. A novice with a powerful weapon is deadlier than a warrior with a stick.”
Twists in the plot with grey but believable characters compels you to keep reading further. I have never become so immersed in a book before.
If you like descriptive magical fantasies, this book is not for you. However, if you are looking for fast-paced entertainer with gripping characters and a storyline based in an ancient exotic world, this is must read.
Rating 4.7/5 Rounding up 5
May 4, 2018
"The Timingila" is an absolute disrupter of current trends in fantasy fiction. Although a fantasy book, it has no magic element in it. The story is inspired by ancient Indian culture, but it is not a retelling of Indian mythology.
Compare to the narratve style fantasy novels, The Timingila is an extremely fast read. You can complete whole book in three to four hours. Its complex story line keeps you invested the whole time.
The story takes place in the ancient land of Jivavarta. It is about survival of a small capital kingdom and its prince/warrior. It is about a monk who wants "betterment" of the people at all cost. It is about a king who wants to keep his old religion/traditions relevant in the changing times.
The novel has well thought-out war scenes, exotic locations and good dialogues. The novel is also one of the most quotable books I have read in the recent past.
It is a complete entertainer.
Compare to the narratve style fantasy novels, The Timingila is an extremely fast read. You can complete whole book in three to four hours. Its complex story line keeps you invested the whole time.
The story takes place in the ancient land of Jivavarta. It is about survival of a small capital kingdom and its prince/warrior. It is about a monk who wants "betterment" of the people at all cost. It is about a king who wants to keep his old religion/traditions relevant in the changing times.
The novel has well thought-out war scenes, exotic locations and good dialogues. The novel is also one of the most quotable books I have read in the recent past.
It is a complete entertainer.
May 5, 2018
This is a fantasy on steroids. The author had a story to tell and she tells it in her own unique and original way.
The book is different in style and background than other fantasy books.
It uses its fantasy world cleverly, to take on charged issues such as racism, religious fanaticism, and power without responsibility.
It's a quick and easy read with a great storyline. I recommend.
The book is different in style and background than other fantasy books.
It uses its fantasy world cleverly, to take on charged issues such as racism, religious fanaticism, and power without responsibility.
It's a quick and easy read with a great storyline. I recommend.
May 4, 2018
This book is... odd.
It is a story of conquest and betrayal set in a fantasy-India, but it doesn't read at all like any kind of a modern fiction novel. It feels like a fairy tale, with the way things are baldly written ("He was falling in love with his wife.") and massive jumps happen between both character relationships ("we've met each other twice, we should get married") and time periods ("last chapter he had just conquered a city, now five years have passed since then.")
For the first several chapters I was at a complete loss, mostly just wondering, What in the world is happening? What kind of book even IS this? Eventually, though, you catch on to the unusual rhythm of the story and the overall effect is charming and smoothly engrossing. Half of what happens seems to happen for almost no reason because of how sparsely written the book is and yet, like in fairy tales, you can see where it was obviously foreshadowed the whole time. Though always plain, sometimes the language and syntax is antiquated, and then sometimes it becomes almost jarringly modern. An example that made me snort my soda:
It is was an unusual experiece, but I very much enjoyed reading The Timingila.
It is a story of conquest and betrayal set in a fantasy-India, but it doesn't read at all like any kind of a modern fiction novel. It feels like a fairy tale, with the way things are baldly written ("He was falling in love with his wife.") and massive jumps happen between both character relationships ("we've met each other twice, we should get married") and time periods ("last chapter he had just conquered a city, now five years have passed since then.")
For the first several chapters I was at a complete loss, mostly just wondering, What in the world is happening? What kind of book even IS this? Eventually, though, you catch on to the unusual rhythm of the story and the overall effect is charming and smoothly engrossing. Half of what happens seems to happen for almost no reason because of how sparsely written the book is and yet, like in fairy tales, you can see where it was obviously foreshadowed the whole time. Though always plain, sometimes the language and syntax is antiquated, and then sometimes it becomes almost jarringly modern. An example that made me snort my soda:
"Sometimes I wonder if Soumil is my nephew, or I am his."
"I agree," said Tasvak. "Soumil is mature for his age. He has taken so much responsibility. Once the war is over, I am going to promote him."
"If you give him a position in the court," Viraj said, "I am going to kill myself."
It is was an unusual experiece, but I very much enjoyed reading The Timingila.
May 9, 2018
I was kindly given an e-ARC of the book by NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I have been meaning to post this review for a long time now but life got in the way.
I read this book in almost a single sitting and it's such a fresh take on fantasy. I am not saying it's never been done before but to read it in today's time is a good thing, you know. It is a fantasy, and it's fast moving. The characters are all varied and with their own voices. I loved the way the main character grew as the time passed. From a shunned young man to the heights of glory and his journey there.
If there's one thing I have against it, it's the lack of connection with some of the characters that were supposedly close to the main character. I never really saw the relationship develop between Tasvak and his wife, yes, they fell in love as the time passed but where were the important moments, the ones that make a relationship worthwhile? Those tender moments were sorely missed and I wish there had been at least a few of them.
The author's writing is good, I think with the way the characters acted in their lives and the way the plot evolved, it could be directed at a younger audience than I? Or maybe that's just my feeling of the book. in general. However, all of this does not negate the fact that it is a really good book to read, something new in a way. For one, it is not a typical high fantasy, it's not set in an eerily similar 'Western-minded' world. For once, the set up and the people seemed familiar and I loved that. The lack of magic made it even more tempting to me, if I am being honest. I love reading about magic, trust me but sometimes, it's also such a pleasure to read something without it.
I loved the fact that the main character wasn't a proper, traditional hero. He might have started out that way but during the journey of life, some things happened and the character wasn't all glowy and righteous. He was flawed and was manipulated and manipulative. He grew and maybe not for the best but he wasn't the worst either. I really liked that. The supporting characters were all equally awesome, some that seemed good were good and some weren't quite there yet.
Overall, a lovely book that should appeal to those who want to read something different, something that has a fast pace and at times, odd developments that leave you wondering.
I have been meaning to post this review for a long time now but life got in the way.
I read this book in almost a single sitting and it's such a fresh take on fantasy. I am not saying it's never been done before but to read it in today's time is a good thing, you know. It is a fantasy, and it's fast moving. The characters are all varied and with their own voices. I loved the way the main character grew as the time passed. From a shunned young man to the heights of glory and his journey there.
If there's one thing I have against it, it's the lack of connection with some of the characters that were supposedly close to the main character. I never really saw the relationship develop between Tasvak and his wife, yes, they fell in love as the time passed but where were the important moments, the ones that make a relationship worthwhile? Those tender moments were sorely missed and I wish there had been at least a few of them.
The author's writing is good, I think with the way the characters acted in their lives and the way the plot evolved, it could be directed at a younger audience than I? Or maybe that's just my feeling of the book. in general. However, all of this does not negate the fact that it is a really good book to read, something new in a way. For one, it is not a typical high fantasy, it's not set in an eerily similar 'Western-minded' world. For once, the set up and the people seemed familiar and I loved that. The lack of magic made it even more tempting to me, if I am being honest. I love reading about magic, trust me but sometimes, it's also such a pleasure to read something without it.
I loved the fact that the main character wasn't a proper, traditional hero. He might have started out that way but during the journey of life, some things happened and the character wasn't all glowy and righteous. He was flawed and was manipulated and manipulative. He grew and maybe not for the best but he wasn't the worst either. I really liked that. The supporting characters were all equally awesome, some that seemed good were good and some weren't quite there yet.
Overall, a lovely book that should appeal to those who want to read something different, something that has a fast pace and at times, odd developments that leave you wondering.
May 3, 2018
I liked the premise of the story, but it was written very simply. The language used was quite basic, and I felt that there should have been more world building and character development.
April 26, 2018
This is a surprisingly fresh read for me. It doesn't follow the conventional styles of writing I have been reading recently as every chapter feels like a summary but I like it. Would definitely read more from this author.
May 4, 2018
What attracted me to this book is its cover and tag line "Maybe I am a villain in your story, but I am a hero in mine".
This is not a typical fantasy book, although it takes place in a fictional world named Jivavarta inspired by ancient India, there is no magic in this story.
The young hero /villain character makes his way through a complex and realistically imagined world complete with different religions, social hierarchy, and surreal locations.
As he struggles for survival he faces questions such as; what to believe? who to trust? What is right and wrong.
The author has very unique narration style. The novel is full of quotes which one can relate to. I loved novel for its plot and quotes.
It is a must read of 2018.
Thanks to netgalley for providing me ARC.
This is not a typical fantasy book, although it takes place in a fictional world named Jivavarta inspired by ancient India, there is no magic in this story.
The young hero /villain character makes his way through a complex and realistically imagined world complete with different religions, social hierarchy, and surreal locations.
As he struggles for survival he faces questions such as; what to believe? who to trust? What is right and wrong.
The author has very unique narration style. The novel is full of quotes which one can relate to. I loved novel for its plot and quotes.
It is a must read of 2018.
Thanks to netgalley for providing me ARC.
December 21, 2018
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The style that this novel was written in reminded me of old myths and legends. Removed from the characters but still involved enough in the plot that you care about what happens to them. The length was perfect and I appreciated that it was very succinct. I really enjoyed it. It was a great story about how one lowly born man manages to turn the world upside down. There are important life lessons scattered through the novel dealing with equality, religion, war, love, and many others.
Nice quick read. I'd recommend especially if you're into myths and legends.
The style that this novel was written in reminded me of old myths and legends. Removed from the characters but still involved enough in the plot that you care about what happens to them. The length was perfect and I appreciated that it was very succinct. I really enjoyed it. It was a great story about how one lowly born man manages to turn the world upside down. There are important life lessons scattered through the novel dealing with equality, religion, war, love, and many others.
Nice quick read. I'd recommend especially if you're into myths and legends.
May 21, 2018
The novel is uniquely brilliant. The writer has a vastly different writing style than other fantasy writers I have read. The use of words is simple yet burnished.
Central theme of the story is about hunger for power, and different paths which lead towards power. Battles, weapons, manipulation, or maybe starting a new faith, whatever it takes. I loved the curve of the characters.
Although plot of the novel is complex, the structure of the novel makes it an easy read.
Currently it seems like a standalone novel, but I hope the writer visits the world of Jivavavarta again.
Central theme of the story is about hunger for power, and different paths which lead towards power. Battles, weapons, manipulation, or maybe starting a new faith, whatever it takes. I loved the curve of the characters.
Although plot of the novel is complex, the structure of the novel makes it an easy read.
Currently it seems like a standalone novel, but I hope the writer visits the world of Jivavavarta again.
February 10, 2025
It is a simply written story reminiscent of the fairy tales I read as a kid. It is much more complex however in terms of scope and morals. This story has everything a person could want: grand heroes, manipulative advisors, an epic battles, political machinations, and a love story. Every single character in the story has a desire for power and those they want to protect while getting it. The king’s road is paved with good intentions and blood. The hero of the story is not who is the most honorable but the “one who survives to tell the story.”
May 21, 2024
It is fantasy minus the magic. Quite enjoyed the book even though initially the simplistic style was a bit off-putting (felt like I was reading a Wikipedia summary of the events). Very straight to the point stuff. The story was great though - some twists I didn't actually see coming.
May 27, 2018
Historical Indian fantasy / fable with themes of breaking systems of caste, religion, politics and power.
Sparse writing style with concise chapters and some profound insights, but could be a much more powerful story with some critical editing.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Sheetal Mehata in exchange for an honest review.
Sparse writing style with concise chapters and some profound insights, but could be a much more powerful story with some critical editing.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Sheetal Mehata in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2024
Entertaining and thoroughly godless. good stuff
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews