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With Dark Understandings
Former Lieutenant and present Opposition Member of Parliament Andres Orce is running for the leadership of his political party. Having earned a reputation as an unconventional politician, the party bosses have become ill-tolerant of his non-partisan direction. Surrounded by candidates that are much more preferred by the party elite, he has to carve out an independent strategy to win. If he succeeds, he is best positioned to lead his party in the upcoming general elections. The major obstacle is the military. It rules with a system of government that differs radically from its constitutional democratic past. Almost four decades of its rule has produced severe economic complications. Orce too has played his part but now is plagued by the battles by his inner demons through his nightmares, which continues to haunt him.It is a do-or-die Political game with vast implications.
340 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
March 28, 2020
As a political scientist, I really enjoy a story laced with what Shakespeare described as “the spurns that patient merit of the unworthy take,” especially when the spurns and the merit are politically laced. Add to that an unfamiliar Asian subcontinent setting, and you could keep me reading forever. This is what Chowdhury gives us.
The novel’s prologue gives us a background dating several centuries -1492 specifically- which the first chapter takes up in 1975, with friends Arman Sultani and Andres Orce enjoying a vacation in the latter’s family estate. That Orce suffers from nightmares similar to the 15th Century fortune teller with whom the Prologue opens gives the reader an early warning that a tragedy shall ensue. I normally don’t write this way, but I wanted to give the reader a taste of Chowdhury’s style; which might confuse Americans. That said, the author uses the perfect style for the intricate and surprising plot twists to come.
The author’s style is the only thing I could criticize. Novelists who write in English should take into consideration Americans make up one of the largest reading blocks. It is true many in India have English as a strong second language; and those English speakers would feel comfortable with the author’s style. I personally would seek more of a balance. However, the story is so titillating in its political foreignness that I have to make ample allowances for a departure from commercial concerns.
The story and the characters are well developed. And Chowdhury has come up with a terrific yarn that will keep you turning pages.
Five Stars!
The novel’s prologue gives us a background dating several centuries -1492 specifically- which the first chapter takes up in 1975, with friends Arman Sultani and Andres Orce enjoying a vacation in the latter’s family estate. That Orce suffers from nightmares similar to the 15th Century fortune teller with whom the Prologue opens gives the reader an early warning that a tragedy shall ensue. I normally don’t write this way, but I wanted to give the reader a taste of Chowdhury’s style; which might confuse Americans. That said, the author uses the perfect style for the intricate and surprising plot twists to come.
The author’s style is the only thing I could criticize. Novelists who write in English should take into consideration Americans make up one of the largest reading blocks. It is true many in India have English as a strong second language; and those English speakers would feel comfortable with the author’s style. I personally would seek more of a balance. However, the story is so titillating in its political foreignness that I have to make ample allowances for a departure from commercial concerns.
The story and the characters are well developed. And Chowdhury has come up with a terrific yarn that will keep you turning pages.
Five Stars!
December 1, 2023
"With Dark Understandings" by Fazle Chowdhury is a gripping historical novel that takes readers on a tumultuous journey through a kingdom facing perilous times. The storyline, set in 1492, unfolds with a prophecy from a 60-year-old fortune teller predicting impending calamity. The entry of a new empress and her allies validates the prophecy, leading to the demise of a seven-century-old peaceful kingdom!
Chowdhury intricately weaves a narrative that explores the consequences of the new empress's rule. Mass burnings and destruction alter the once serene landscape, replacing the old order with chaos. Silent warfare simmers beneath the surface, erupting during the civil war of 1936. The PAM, a right-wing fascist party, assumes control after a vicious civil war, plunging the nation into authoritarian rule.
The author delves into the complexities of political opposition, as the Liberal Socialists attempt reforms repeatedly thwarted by PAM and the military. The provinces rebel, and by 1976, the country is teetering on the edge of collapse. The narrative reaches a pivotal moment in 1977 when the military reluctantly allows a free and fair election, providing a glimmer of hope!
Chowdhury's storytelling is marked by a keen understanding of historical intricacies, political maneuvering, and the human condition. The novel offers a thought-provoking exploration of power, resilience, and the enduring struggle for freedom. "With Dark Understandings" is not just a historical tale; it is a reflection on the cycles of power, the consequences of tyranny, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to resist.
Chowdhury intricately weaves a narrative that explores the consequences of the new empress's rule. Mass burnings and destruction alter the once serene landscape, replacing the old order with chaos. Silent warfare simmers beneath the surface, erupting during the civil war of 1936. The PAM, a right-wing fascist party, assumes control after a vicious civil war, plunging the nation into authoritarian rule.
The author delves into the complexities of political opposition, as the Liberal Socialists attempt reforms repeatedly thwarted by PAM and the military. The provinces rebel, and by 1976, the country is teetering on the edge of collapse. The narrative reaches a pivotal moment in 1977 when the military reluctantly allows a free and fair election, providing a glimmer of hope!
Chowdhury's storytelling is marked by a keen understanding of historical intricacies, political maneuvering, and the human condition. The novel offers a thought-provoking exploration of power, resilience, and the enduring struggle for freedom. "With Dark Understandings" is not just a historical tale; it is a reflection on the cycles of power, the consequences of tyranny, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to resist.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews