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En route Kasol
Description
En route Kasol is a thriller book by Young Indian Author ABILASH Geetha Balan- under the Novella category. En Route Kasol is a short book that you can finish reading in a couple of hours or a day. This is the second book by the Author after being amongst the highly rated books in Amazon and with positive review the Author has written this book after a two year break. This book is perfect for teenagers and all general public Our earth is a mysterious place, filled with many urban legends and folklores. 'En route Kasol' is a tale of 3 people within the small forest town of Kasol, in northern India. Kasol forest holds many secrets, amongst them, the 106 acres single tree forest, considered as the oldest living thing by the scientific community has remained a mystery for many centuries now. A mentalist, an activist and a medical researcher come together and try to unravel this age old mystery. Amidst this thrilling adventure, they try to resolve a major challenge that has been plaguing mankind since industrial revolution. A story that is destined to stretch the boundaries of human imagination.
En route Kasol is a thriller book by Young Indian Author ABILASH Geetha Balan- under the Novella category. En Route Kasol is a short book that you can finish reading in a couple of hours or a day. This is the second book by the Author after being amongst the highly rated books in Amazon and with positive review the Author has written this book after a two year break. This book is perfect for teenagers and all general public Our earth is a mysterious place, filled with many urban legends and folklores. 'En route Kasol' is a tale of 3 people within the small forest town of Kasol, in northern India. Kasol forest holds many secrets, amongst them, the 106 acres single tree forest, considered as the oldest living thing by the scientific community has remained a mystery for many centuries now. A mentalist, an activist and a medical researcher come together and try to unravel this age old mystery. Amidst this thrilling adventure, they try to resolve a major challenge that has been plaguing mankind since industrial revolution. A story that is destined to stretch the boundaries of human imagination.
85 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2019
9 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 6, 2021
This short thriller story’s plot is based in Kasol, near the Kullu district in India. I enjoy the research done by Abilash Geetha Balan on various topics that made the story fast-pacing and enjoyable, but there were many loose ends.
When the story ends, all I think of was that it has to be a full-fledged novel. However, with the current narrative, this book is a decent read. It's a mixture of horror and mystery written with uncomplicated phrases, making it a good read for beginners. I recommend it.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
When the story ends, all I think of was that it has to be a full-fledged novel. However, with the current narrative, this book is a decent read. It's a mixture of horror and mystery written with uncomplicated phrases, making it a good read for beginners. I recommend it.
Read the detailed review here - Books Charming
November 22, 2019
A good short book with a decent mystery that will keep you engaged. The beginning is slow but picks up pace as the story progresses.
September 11, 2021
"En Route Kasol"
A myth that came back to life
By:- Abilash Geetha Balan
A story of a village named Kasol situated in Himachal Pradesh. A beautiful village in the Parvati valley amidst which the Parvati river flows.
This book takes its reader on an amazing adventure in the forest of Kasol, the trek to Kheerganga from the hills of bears.
This merely 85 pages long book has everything in it, nature, science, thrill, fiction, romantic moments, and the most suspense. The reader would never want it to end.
The center of attraction in this story is a mysterious stone, the stone of death, located in the 106 acres of pine tree forest called the suicide forest. In which all the trees are one. This mysterious forest holds a secret for more than 300 years, the secret no one dares to unravel. The locals say it has some supernatural powers. It is haunted by the ghosts of the soldiers who died in the great war of the 1800s.
A group of 3 friends tries to unravel the mystery by doing research, fighting their fears. They were on the edge of the answers to their questions, and something happens, something unimagined. You must read this great book to find your answers, as they read through many history books and research.
Mainly only one thing which had the scope of improvements:
-> It has many chapters in comparison to 85 pages, which disconnects the storyline. Some breaks were also present in between the paragraphs, due to which the reader can get confused.
Overall the story is good and fast-paced, and because of that, the reader stays engaged. One of the best books to read if you are a beginner and want to have a habit of reading but find it challenging.
A myth that came back to life
By:- Abilash Geetha Balan
A story of a village named Kasol situated in Himachal Pradesh. A beautiful village in the Parvati valley amidst which the Parvati river flows.
This book takes its reader on an amazing adventure in the forest of Kasol, the trek to Kheerganga from the hills of bears.
This merely 85 pages long book has everything in it, nature, science, thrill, fiction, romantic moments, and the most suspense. The reader would never want it to end.
The center of attraction in this story is a mysterious stone, the stone of death, located in the 106 acres of pine tree forest called the suicide forest. In which all the trees are one. This mysterious forest holds a secret for more than 300 years, the secret no one dares to unravel. The locals say it has some supernatural powers. It is haunted by the ghosts of the soldiers who died in the great war of the 1800s.
A group of 3 friends tries to unravel the mystery by doing research, fighting their fears. They were on the edge of the answers to their questions, and something happens, something unimagined. You must read this great book to find your answers, as they read through many history books and research.
Mainly only one thing which had the scope of improvements:
-> It has many chapters in comparison to 85 pages, which disconnects the storyline. Some breaks were also present in between the paragraphs, due to which the reader can get confused.
Overall the story is good and fast-paced, and because of that, the reader stays engaged. One of the best books to read if you are a beginner and want to have a habit of reading but find it challenging.
October 29, 2019
The book is about a small forest town Kasol in northern India. 3 people set out to unravel the mystery surrounding this huge 600 acre single tree forest. Many have tried before them, none have lived to tell the tale.
The best part about this book are the vivid descriptions that painted a clear picture in my mind. Add to that the edge of the seat elements, the book is an all in one package. Right from the start, the story gave me a tingling feeling, making my hair stand on edge. On more than one occasion I had to close the book and look around to ensure I was at my home and not in Kasol, such is the impact of the story.
It’s a simple read owing to the short nature of the book. The writing incorporates use of simple words and sentences making it an ideal pick for people like me who just want to get a feel of the horror genre but not to commit to it. It is also good for beginners trying to explore the hobby of reading.
Now when you come to the ending, I was expecting something horrifying, or even a happy ending probably, but what I got was a scientific one. That was the most mind blowing twist. It left me with many questions which I hoped I would get an answer for but that’s the thing, we humans are not fully capable of understanding the supernatural world yet, that’s precisely what the author tries to convey. It was not exactly an open ending but neither a close one. So, if you are looking for a short read, do pick this up.
The best part about this book are the vivid descriptions that painted a clear picture in my mind. Add to that the edge of the seat elements, the book is an all in one package. Right from the start, the story gave me a tingling feeling, making my hair stand on edge. On more than one occasion I had to close the book and look around to ensure I was at my home and not in Kasol, such is the impact of the story.
It’s a simple read owing to the short nature of the book. The writing incorporates use of simple words and sentences making it an ideal pick for people like me who just want to get a feel of the horror genre but not to commit to it. It is also good for beginners trying to explore the hobby of reading.
Now when you come to the ending, I was expecting something horrifying, or even a happy ending probably, but what I got was a scientific one. That was the most mind blowing twist. It left me with many questions which I hoped I would get an answer for but that’s the thing, we humans are not fully capable of understanding the supernatural world yet, that’s precisely what the author tries to convey. It was not exactly an open ending but neither a close one. So, if you are looking for a short read, do pick this up.
September 12, 2019
Writing & Narration:
I found the storyline extremely intriguing. There are twists, turns, mystery, a tinge of fear, and so many other emotions weaved in one concept. The way author has explained the story is fantastic, too. Though, there are some grammatical errors, but overall, everything is good.
Title & Cover:
The title is good and matches well with the basic concept. And, the cover is attractive too.
Pros:
Marvelous storyline
Good narration
Simple language
Cons:
The story went up and down a bit in terms of narration.
My Verdict:
I am a connoisseur for mysterious stories. And, this one totally kept me hooked til the very end. Even in reality, there are innumerable stories hidden in the depth of forests and mountains. And, since the story is based in Kasol, the essence of mystery increases even more. So, if you are a mystery-book lover, this book is for you.
I found the storyline extremely intriguing. There are twists, turns, mystery, a tinge of fear, and so many other emotions weaved in one concept. The way author has explained the story is fantastic, too. Though, there are some grammatical errors, but overall, everything is good.
Title & Cover:
The title is good and matches well with the basic concept. And, the cover is attractive too.
Pros:
Marvelous storyline
Good narration
Simple language
Cons:
The story went up and down a bit in terms of narration.
My Verdict:
I am a connoisseur for mysterious stories. And, this one totally kept me hooked til the very end. Even in reality, there are innumerable stories hidden in the depth of forests and mountains. And, since the story is based in Kasol, the essence of mystery increases even more. So, if you are a mystery-book lover, this book is for you.
October 2, 2020
The title was already engaging me and I was not aware that this is going to keep me hooked.
With a lot of thrill, excitement, stories, a beautiful valley and an amazing write up I am in love with this fabulous book and I want to appreciate the author for this.
Waiting for a lot more reads from you.
Truly a must read!
With a lot of thrill, excitement, stories, a beautiful valley and an amazing write up I am in love with this fabulous book and I want to appreciate the author for this.
Waiting for a lot more reads from you.
Truly a must read!
October 7, 2021
Book : En Route Kasol
Author : Abilash Geetha Balan
Genre : Novella, Thriller
Book Review :
This book is about a beautiful and serene town of Kasol in Modern Himachal Pradesh,the secrets it have been hiding for centuries. Arjun and Ela happened to go for a trip to the 106 acres Suicide Forest in Kasol and faces something horrible, which changes their life forever.
The book is a light read, faced paced and very well written. I would say, the author has done a very good job when it comes to writing this book. A lot of research has been done for writing it. The thrill of the book increases every chapter you read and makes you think and questions starts to roam around your head. and the best part is, this is one of the most informative books I've ever read, you get to learn a lot, like a lot! I would really recommend you this book if you are a beginner and love thrillers.
Rating - 3.5🌟/5
Author : Abilash Geetha Balan
Genre : Novella, Thriller
Book Review :
This book is about a beautiful and serene town of Kasol in Modern Himachal Pradesh,the secrets it have been hiding for centuries. Arjun and Ela happened to go for a trip to the 106 acres Suicide Forest in Kasol and faces something horrible, which changes their life forever.
The book is a light read, faced paced and very well written. I would say, the author has done a very good job when it comes to writing this book. A lot of research has been done for writing it. The thrill of the book increases every chapter you read and makes you think and questions starts to roam around your head. and the best part is, this is one of the most informative books I've ever read, you get to learn a lot, like a lot! I would really recommend you this book if you are a beginner and love thrillers.
Rating - 3.5🌟/5
October 2, 2021
~ Kasol is a small village in Himachal Pradesh. A small yet beautiful 400 acres village famous for Parvati valley amidst which the Parvati river flows.
~ This book is a perfect mixture of suspense, thrill, horror and even science which will keep you hooked. A one sitting read!
~ The story contains a mystery. A mystery of a death stone that has remained a mystery for many centuries, located in 106 acres single tree forest in Kasol. A death stone on which many people have committed suicide. Arjun, Ela and Anjana came together to unravel this mystery. Will they be able to do this?
~The ending was beautifully written. Really loved the book!
~ This book is a perfect mixture of suspense, thrill, horror and even science which will keep you hooked. A one sitting read!
~ The story contains a mystery. A mystery of a death stone that has remained a mystery for many centuries, located in 106 acres single tree forest in Kasol. A death stone on which many people have committed suicide. Arjun, Ela and Anjana came together to unravel this mystery. Will they be able to do this?
~The ending was beautifully written. Really loved the book!
September 18, 2021
Without being a spoiler for all the readers I can say that #enroutekasol is a fantastic book with the mixture of mystery, fiction, science and mythology for all the nature lovers. I must say that the writer is truly creative and the language used here is very simple even for the Begginers and quite impressive. I would surely look forward to purchase and read more wonderful books by Abhilash Geetha Balan.
August 28, 2021
Worth of pondering in it's every page as to what shall come next, 'EN ROUTE KASOL' by 'Abilash Geetha Balan is a short yey a nice book for those who can't keep patience in reading long novels or stories. Written in the most appealing form, with appropriate use of words. Inclined towards emancipation to shortcomings, free will to love, desires to embrace actions, keen towards deciphering the unknown & last but not the least, the presence of either superstitions or paranoia in nature, we all have to bow our heads to the unending secrets of mother earth. Thanks to 'Sharing Stories' to honour me with this opportunity to make my second book review, this book made me realize that past, present, or future, some secrets are best left untouched else lives are devoured by darkness of no knowledge. The book is divided into 12 chapters, each of which is meticulously designed to keep an element of surprise for the next.
Overall it was a good read!
What disturbed me about the book is it's printing where consecutive pages are stuck up leaving a page or to. I feel the company should take care of this.
Thank You,
@Ritabrata Ghosh (Author of 3 successful books, working with book reviews & a published writer in international & national magazines & journals)
Contact Info: Ritabrataghosh983@gmail.com
Overall it was a good read!
What disturbed me about the book is it's printing where consecutive pages are stuck up leaving a page or to. I feel the company should take care of this.
Thank You,
@Ritabrata Ghosh (Author of 3 successful books, working with book reviews & a published writer in international & national magazines & journals)
Contact Info: Ritabrataghosh983@gmail.com
February 8, 2026
The story is set in the picturesque Kasol of Himachal Pradesh. The location and the surrounding forest becomes the main focus of the narrative. This novel within its 85 pages of content mixed folklore, science and thriller.
The mysterious 106 acres of forest houses the main legend of the novel. A peculiar and powerful force resides in these woods that drives travellers and all living things in close proximity to its boundaries to take their own lives. There are whispers of paranormal events, and certain 'Stone of Death' being buried there - a probable cause of the whole mystery.
There are three central characters to this story:
1) Anjana - an environmentalist
2) Arjun - a seeker
3) Ela - a scientific researcher
The three embark on a journey filled with peril and unknown with the bizarre events as their lead. Their only mission - uncover the truth behind the claims and accidents.
The narrative highlights the mesmerizing pine woods, winding forest trails and the eerie silence of the surroundings. The forest almost becomes a central being to this story and rightfully so. Kasol and Parvati Valley have been highlighted with ethereal descriptions and I enjoyed reading this.
The novel is brief and suspenseful. The entwined layers of myth and reality slowly come undone as the trip delves deep into the mystery of the place. Their journey highlights nature, the human psyche and the limitations of science. The book is a good choice as a brief thriller with brisk pacing. There is no scope of dense descriptions and the author maintained it.
The character development and emotional depth lacked an elaborate scope due to the novel's limited length. The protagonist had the absence of exploration. This has limited the emotional impact of the key revelations.
The climax of the novel does poetic justice to the whole story. It provides scientific explanation which stands in contrast to the superstition and supernatural. The novel holds value in its incorporation of regional myths and suspense. Lastly, the editing could have been more swift and precise.
The mysterious 106 acres of forest houses the main legend of the novel. A peculiar and powerful force resides in these woods that drives travellers and all living things in close proximity to its boundaries to take their own lives. There are whispers of paranormal events, and certain 'Stone of Death' being buried there - a probable cause of the whole mystery.
There are three central characters to this story:
1) Anjana - an environmentalist
2) Arjun - a seeker
3) Ela - a scientific researcher
The three embark on a journey filled with peril and unknown with the bizarre events as their lead. Their only mission - uncover the truth behind the claims and accidents.
The narrative highlights the mesmerizing pine woods, winding forest trails and the eerie silence of the surroundings. The forest almost becomes a central being to this story and rightfully so. Kasol and Parvati Valley have been highlighted with ethereal descriptions and I enjoyed reading this.
The novel is brief and suspenseful. The entwined layers of myth and reality slowly come undone as the trip delves deep into the mystery of the place. Their journey highlights nature, the human psyche and the limitations of science. The book is a good choice as a brief thriller with brisk pacing. There is no scope of dense descriptions and the author maintained it.
The character development and emotional depth lacked an elaborate scope due to the novel's limited length. The protagonist had the absence of exploration. This has limited the emotional impact of the key revelations.
The climax of the novel does poetic justice to the whole story. It provides scientific explanation which stands in contrast to the superstition and supernatural. The novel holds value in its incorporation of regional myths and suspense. Lastly, the editing could have been more swift and precise.
February 6, 2026
The narrator establishes the surroundings, explores the myths and jumps right into action. I couldn't stop once I started reading it. Honestly, the way it's written, the book felt like I was having a chat with a friend and they were telling me their travel stories. I liked this about the story, the way it's told, blending nature and myths and mystery together as casually as old friends can do over chai.
Talking about the plot a bit, without giving out any spoilers, it starts in Kasol, introduces us to angsty Anjana, unfortunate Arjun (you'll know why) and magnificent Ela. We quickly learn about them, their backstories but the story is still very much centred around the place where it's happening and its mysteries. (What are men, or women, cis, trans or anything else, compared to Himachal Pradesh, am I right Jane?)
So what happens is, they're all either in Kasol or going there (ahem, en route). And strange things are happening in Kasol, people bashing their heads on stones on their own accord kinda strange things. The length of the book is a treat because we find out soon enough what is up. But it is also the short length that sort of leaves us with a, ‘wait, what? That's it?’
At times, there were such beautiful build-ups which ended up being anticlimactic, almost making it comical. And the dialogues could have been better. It's not like the author lacks imagination, because throughout his writing I got a clear idea of the forest, the village, the surroundings, and it was all beautiful. The twists at the end were also brilliant, but when it came to action and what the people were doing or saying, everything was rushed. I guess I wanted the story to have some more depth.
You can pick it up, you'll be mystified as well as chuckle to yourself for a couple of hours. The book might also inspire a trip to Kasol. I know I am packing my bags.
Talking about the plot a bit, without giving out any spoilers, it starts in Kasol, introduces us to angsty Anjana, unfortunate Arjun (you'll know why) and magnificent Ela. We quickly learn about them, their backstories but the story is still very much centred around the place where it's happening and its mysteries. (What are men, or women, cis, trans or anything else, compared to Himachal Pradesh, am I right Jane?)
So what happens is, they're all either in Kasol or going there (ahem, en route). And strange things are happening in Kasol, people bashing their heads on stones on their own accord kinda strange things. The length of the book is a treat because we find out soon enough what is up. But it is also the short length that sort of leaves us with a, ‘wait, what? That's it?’
At times, there were such beautiful build-ups which ended up being anticlimactic, almost making it comical. And the dialogues could have been better. It's not like the author lacks imagination, because throughout his writing I got a clear idea of the forest, the village, the surroundings, and it was all beautiful. The twists at the end were also brilliant, but when it came to action and what the people were doing or saying, everything was rushed. I guess I wanted the story to have some more depth.
You can pick it up, you'll be mystified as well as chuckle to yourself for a couple of hours. The book might also inspire a trip to Kasol. I know I am packing my bags.
February 6, 2026
"En Route Kasol" by Abilash Geetha Balan is a gripping short tale that demonstrate how you don't need to fill hundreds of pages with narrative tension to keep an audience engaged: This novella has only 85 pages. The novel takes you on an expedition through the haunting forests of Kasol, Himachal Pradesh - A place overwhelmed by legends of hopelessness and peril through time.
The tale follows, Ela, Arjun, and Anjana, as they venture into a 106-acre area of forbidden forest where people have supposedly committed suicide by crossing these boundaries. Day one began with curiosity but devolved into a chilling investigation of folklore, life and death, and the slim dividing line between fear and fascination. The forest felt as though it were a character in the story - old, living, and observant.
Balan's writing is both appealing and provides an atmospheric quality. He paints a picture of the community in Kasol through vivid images while creating a balance between beautiful and threatening. Additionally, Balan incorporates local folklore and environmental themes into the narrative creating depth for the place and the readers. Despite the brevity of the stories resulting in only a limited amount of character development, the pace of the story keeps you from being bored.
If you love mystery with elements of folklore, quick thrillers or book that can be finished in just a few hours, this is the book for you! It’s creepy but not too scary, thought provoking but not too philosophical.
"En Route Kasol" is a short journey that sticks with you forever like the sound of your own footsteps in a haunted woods.
The tale follows, Ela, Arjun, and Anjana, as they venture into a 106-acre area of forbidden forest where people have supposedly committed suicide by crossing these boundaries. Day one began with curiosity but devolved into a chilling investigation of folklore, life and death, and the slim dividing line between fear and fascination. The forest felt as though it were a character in the story - old, living, and observant.
Balan's writing is both appealing and provides an atmospheric quality. He paints a picture of the community in Kasol through vivid images while creating a balance between beautiful and threatening. Additionally, Balan incorporates local folklore and environmental themes into the narrative creating depth for the place and the readers. Despite the brevity of the stories resulting in only a limited amount of character development, the pace of the story keeps you from being bored.
If you love mystery with elements of folklore, quick thrillers or book that can be finished in just a few hours, this is the book for you! It’s creepy but not too scary, thought provoking but not too philosophical.
"En Route Kasol" is a short journey that sticks with you forever like the sound of your own footsteps in a haunted woods.
February 7, 2026
En Route Kasol is a mysterious journey that begins like a simple trip and slowly transforms into something far more unsettling. Set against the misty forests and quiet roads leading to Kasol, Abilash Geetha Balan’s novella draws the reader into a world where folklore, science, and human curiosity collide.
The story follows three strangers—a mentalist, an NGO worker, and a medical researcher. Each has their own beliefs and questions. As their paths intersect, they are pulled toward a forest shrouded in myths and whispered warnings. What starts as skepticism soon turns into unease as strange events challenge logic and reason. The author cleverly blurs the line between superstition and reality, keeping the reader constantly guessing.
One of the most striking elements of the book is its setting. The forest is not just a backdrop but a living presence, adding a sense of tension and eeriness to the narrative. The descriptions are subtle yet effective, allowing the atmosphere to build naturally without overwhelming the story. The language remains simple and fluid, making the novella easy to read while still maintaining suspense.
Despite its short length, it manages to tell a complete and engaging story. The pacing is tight, with no unnecessary detours, and the mystery unfolds smoothly until the end. This book is ideal for readers who enjoy quick yet thought-provoking thrillers rooted in folklore and unexplained phenomena.
Overall, En Route Kasol is a haunting short read that lingers in the mind long after the final page.
The story follows three strangers—a mentalist, an NGO worker, and a medical researcher. Each has their own beliefs and questions. As their paths intersect, they are pulled toward a forest shrouded in myths and whispered warnings. What starts as skepticism soon turns into unease as strange events challenge logic and reason. The author cleverly blurs the line between superstition and reality, keeping the reader constantly guessing.
One of the most striking elements of the book is its setting. The forest is not just a backdrop but a living presence, adding a sense of tension and eeriness to the narrative. The descriptions are subtle yet effective, allowing the atmosphere to build naturally without overwhelming the story. The language remains simple and fluid, making the novella easy to read while still maintaining suspense.
Despite its short length, it manages to tell a complete and engaging story. The pacing is tight, with no unnecessary detours, and the mystery unfolds smoothly until the end. This book is ideal for readers who enjoy quick yet thought-provoking thrillers rooted in folklore and unexplained phenomena.
Overall, En Route Kasol is a haunting short read that lingers in the mind long after the final page.
February 13, 2026
This is a short thriller of around 85 pages. It is fast paced and easy to follow. The story is set in the small village of Kasol in Himachal Pradesh and revolves around a mysterious 106 acre Suicide Forest. It begins with some light description of the setting and certain terms that become important later, which actually helped in building the atmosphere.
What stood out the most is the way the author blends thriller, mystery, folklore, science, and myth together. A very thin and almost invisible line is maintained between belief, God, superstition, and reality. The supernatural elements add to the intrigue without making the narrative feel exaggerated.
It is clearly evident that the author has researched well for this book. A lot of information is woven naturally into the plot, and it never feels forced. For such a short book, it carries surprising depth in terms of background and concept.
The pacing is quick and keeps the momentum strong throughout. There is a constant sense of curiosity about what will unfold next. The climax is especially gripping and difficult to put down. The ending is not predictable, yet it feels realistic and easy to accept.
There are a few loose ends, and given the strength of the concept, the story had the potential to explore even more depth with a few additional chapters. The foundation is strong and could have been expanded further.
Overall, an engaging mystery thriller that works perfectly as a short but intense read.
What stood out the most is the way the author blends thriller, mystery, folklore, science, and myth together. A very thin and almost invisible line is maintained between belief, God, superstition, and reality. The supernatural elements add to the intrigue without making the narrative feel exaggerated.
It is clearly evident that the author has researched well for this book. A lot of information is woven naturally into the plot, and it never feels forced. For such a short book, it carries surprising depth in terms of background and concept.
The pacing is quick and keeps the momentum strong throughout. There is a constant sense of curiosity about what will unfold next. The climax is especially gripping and difficult to put down. The ending is not predictable, yet it feels realistic and easy to accept.
There are a few loose ends, and given the strength of the concept, the story had the potential to explore even more depth with a few additional chapters. The foundation is strong and could have been expanded further.
Overall, an engaging mystery thriller that works perfectly as a short but intense read.
February 15, 2026
“Every place on the map has a history, a history that has changed its narrative over the years by the various kings and queens who have ruled the land. But, if you look closely, you can always find the true history hidden between the various narratives.”
Some stories don’t need 300 pages to make you feel like you’ve lived through an entire world. En Route Kasol by Abilash Geetha Balan is one of those compact reads that delivers a full-bodied experience in just 88 pages, and still manages to do justice to the many themes it introduces.
At its heart, the book is a fast-paced blend of mystery, folklore, psychological tension, corruption, and sensitive truths, wrapped in the haunting beauty of Kasol. From the very first chapter, the author establishes an atmosphere that feels misty, cold, and uncertain, like you’re walking through a forest where the trees are watching you back. The mention of the Chaitra tribe and their symbolic vulture pendants immediately adds cultural texture.
And then comes the hook: the 106-acre suicide forest, the chilling “Stone of Death,” and the legend of entities protecting the wilderness. The author builds the myth slowly, letting it seep into the narrative instead of dumping it all at once.
One of the strongest aspects of En Route Kasol is its ability to maintain an air of mystery. The writing is very inviting, making it a quick one-sitting read. For me, the characters and the emotions they go through added more charm to the reading experience.
Some stories don’t need 300 pages to make you feel like you’ve lived through an entire world. En Route Kasol by Abilash Geetha Balan is one of those compact reads that delivers a full-bodied experience in just 88 pages, and still manages to do justice to the many themes it introduces.
At its heart, the book is a fast-paced blend of mystery, folklore, psychological tension, corruption, and sensitive truths, wrapped in the haunting beauty of Kasol. From the very first chapter, the author establishes an atmosphere that feels misty, cold, and uncertain, like you’re walking through a forest where the trees are watching you back. The mention of the Chaitra tribe and their symbolic vulture pendants immediately adds cultural texture.
And then comes the hook: the 106-acre suicide forest, the chilling “Stone of Death,” and the legend of entities protecting the wilderness. The author builds the myth slowly, letting it seep into the narrative instead of dumping it all at once.
One of the strongest aspects of En Route Kasol is its ability to maintain an air of mystery. The writing is very inviting, making it a quick one-sitting read. For me, the characters and the emotions they go through added more charm to the reading experience.
September 2, 2021
Set in the backdrop of breathtakingly beautiful Kasol, a hamlet in Himachal Pradesh, also known as Mini Israel of India, this book has a story that is equally adventurous as the Parvati valley itself where Kasol is situated.
A mix of thriller, science, and fiction, this book is a quick read of just 85 pages packed with a lot of suspense and intrigue. The story revolves around a mysterious stone inside a single tree pine forest that spreads across 106 acres where all the trees are attached through a single root and are known to induce people to commit suicide if they end up going near the stone. The place is considered haunted whose secret no one could ever decipher.
Does the plot sound interesting? It is!
With a slow start, in the beginning, the story soon catches fire and takes the readers on a thrilling ride into the haunted forest. A limited set of characters ensured that there was minimal clutter and they remained focused on the main storyline. A lot of groundwork and research is also evident throughout the book which makes the content trustworthy.
Few things which had room for improvement:
✍ There are disconnects between scenes and stories at some places making room for better editing.
✍The narration is to the point and fast-paced; but it would have helped to define the characters, scenes, and places with more detail so that readers could visualize them and connect with them. As a reader, I could feel the thrill of the story but I could not connect with the characters or feel the fear of a mysterious forest.
Overall, it is a good one-time read and recommended for suspense thriller fans who are looking for a fast-paced journey into the woods.
A mix of thriller, science, and fiction, this book is a quick read of just 85 pages packed with a lot of suspense and intrigue. The story revolves around a mysterious stone inside a single tree pine forest that spreads across 106 acres where all the trees are attached through a single root and are known to induce people to commit suicide if they end up going near the stone. The place is considered haunted whose secret no one could ever decipher.
Does the plot sound interesting? It is!
With a slow start, in the beginning, the story soon catches fire and takes the readers on a thrilling ride into the haunted forest. A limited set of characters ensured that there was minimal clutter and they remained focused on the main storyline. A lot of groundwork and research is also evident throughout the book which makes the content trustworthy.
Few things which had room for improvement:
✍ There are disconnects between scenes and stories at some places making room for better editing.
✍The narration is to the point and fast-paced; but it would have helped to define the characters, scenes, and places with more detail so that readers could visualize them and connect with them. As a reader, I could feel the thrill of the story but I could not connect with the characters or feel the fear of a mysterious forest.
Overall, it is a good one-time read and recommended for suspense thriller fans who are looking for a fast-paced journey into the woods.
February 6, 2026
"Love is a motivation to live."
Love does wonders, whether it is love for a person, fraternity or material wealth. It makes you equipped with its thoughts and makes you do whatever you never expected from yourself. Such a thrilling story is "En Route Kasol", where I found many lives and couples' lives getting tangled due to secrets held long buried in the past.
"En route Kasol' is a tale of 3 people within the small forest town of Kasol, in northern India. Kasol forest holds many secrets; amongst them, the 106-acre single-tree forest, considered the oldest living thing by the scientific community, has remained a mystery for many centuries now. Here, whoever dared to enter to know the mystery of the stone or the forest never returned.
Here Arjun, a mentalist; Anjana, an activist; and Ela Thomas, a medical researcher, come together and try to unravel this age-old mystery. I was intrigued by the sudden trek of these three and how they are able to unravel the age-old secret and protect the animals and human ecosystem.
The author has well penned the characters, making it more riveting and gripping. Even the role of Naresh and his knowledge about forest life made it more gripping throughout the book.
Overall, this is a thrilling adventure that they try to resolve. It has been a major challenge that has been plaguing mankind since the Industrial Revolution.
Love does wonders, whether it is love for a person, fraternity or material wealth. It makes you equipped with its thoughts and makes you do whatever you never expected from yourself. Such a thrilling story is "En Route Kasol", where I found many lives and couples' lives getting tangled due to secrets held long buried in the past.
"En route Kasol' is a tale of 3 people within the small forest town of Kasol, in northern India. Kasol forest holds many secrets; amongst them, the 106-acre single-tree forest, considered the oldest living thing by the scientific community, has remained a mystery for many centuries now. Here, whoever dared to enter to know the mystery of the stone or the forest never returned.
Here Arjun, a mentalist; Anjana, an activist; and Ela Thomas, a medical researcher, come together and try to unravel this age-old mystery. I was intrigued by the sudden trek of these three and how they are able to unravel the age-old secret and protect the animals and human ecosystem.
The author has well penned the characters, making it more riveting and gripping. Even the role of Naresh and his knowledge about forest life made it more gripping throughout the book.
Overall, this is a thrilling adventure that they try to resolve. It has been a major challenge that has been plaguing mankind since the Industrial Revolution.
February 7, 2026
From the moment I started reading this book, I knew two things:
1. I wasn't putting it down anytime soon, and
2. Kasol just climbed even higher on my bucket list (right after "save enough money to travel").
As someone who has romanticised Kasol from Instagram reels and travel vlogs, this book felt like walking into the version of Kasol you don't usually see - the one with secrets, strange energies, and a strong "maybe don't wander alone at night" vibe. The author wastes no time and drops you straight into the story, where myths quietly coexist with the present, and nothing feels entirely normal but that's kind of the point.
We meet Anjana, Arjun and Ela. Their backstories exist, but honestly, Kasol itself steals the spotlight.
The imagination behind the setting is fantastic. You can picture the forests, the villages, and the tension hanging in the air. The twists toward the end are smart and satisfying and the shorter length of the book actually works in its favor here - it keeps the mystery tight and makes sure you don't wander off like a distracted tourist.
This book was an entertaining, atmospheric ride. It's mysterious, slightly unsettling, and oddly comforting at the same time.
1. I wasn't putting it down anytime soon, and
2. Kasol just climbed even higher on my bucket list (right after "save enough money to travel").
As someone who has romanticised Kasol from Instagram reels and travel vlogs, this book felt like walking into the version of Kasol you don't usually see - the one with secrets, strange energies, and a strong "maybe don't wander alone at night" vibe. The author wastes no time and drops you straight into the story, where myths quietly coexist with the present, and nothing feels entirely normal but that's kind of the point.
We meet Anjana, Arjun and Ela. Their backstories exist, but honestly, Kasol itself steals the spotlight.
The imagination behind the setting is fantastic. You can picture the forests, the villages, and the tension hanging in the air. The twists toward the end are smart and satisfying and the shorter length of the book actually works in its favor here - it keeps the mystery tight and makes sure you don't wander off like a distracted tourist.
This book was an entertaining, atmospheric ride. It's mysterious, slightly unsettling, and oddly comforting at the same time.
February 9, 2026
Set in the quiet yet unsettling village of Kasol in Himachal Pradesh, this book pulls you into a forest that feels alive with secrets. Surrounded by pine trees and the Parvati river, the setting creates an eerie contrast between natural beauty and something far more ominous beneath the surface. From the very beginning, there’s a strange calm that makes you curious, almost daring you to keep reading.
The story follows three friends who set out to uncover the truth behind a mysterious forest and a long-whispered legend tied to it. Despite being a very short book, it blends adventure, suspense, and folklore surprisingly well. The writing is simple and fast-paced, making it an easy read, especially for beginners or anyone wanting a quick dive into mystery without a heavy commitment.
What really stands out is the way the book handles its ending. Instead of going for a predictable horror route, it leans into a more thought-provoking explanation, leaving you with questions rather than clear answers. Overall, it’s a compact, engaging read that proves atmosphere and intrigue don’t need length to work. Perfect for a short, spooky escape. 🌲📖
The story follows three friends who set out to uncover the truth behind a mysterious forest and a long-whispered legend tied to it. Despite being a very short book, it blends adventure, suspense, and folklore surprisingly well. The writing is simple and fast-paced, making it an easy read, especially for beginners or anyone wanting a quick dive into mystery without a heavy commitment.
What really stands out is the way the book handles its ending. Instead of going for a predictable horror route, it leans into a more thought-provoking explanation, leaving you with questions rather than clear answers. Overall, it’s a compact, engaging read that proves atmosphere and intrigue don’t need length to work. Perfect for a short, spooky escape. 🌲📖
September 27, 2021
En Route Kasol is a novella by author Abilash Geetha Balan, which is a great read which can be finished in a couple of hours or a day.
This book will be a good recommendation for newbie readers.
En Route Kasol is tale of three friends within the small town Kasol, in northern India.
A mentalist, an activist, and a medical researcher come together and try to unravel the age old mystery of 106 acres single tree forest.
This book is a perfect thrilling and adventurous experience.
It is a mixture of horror and mystery written with simple phrases, making it a easy read for newbies and non readers.
- Ankita 🦋
This book will be a good recommendation for newbie readers.
En Route Kasol is tale of three friends within the small town Kasol, in northern India.
A mentalist, an activist, and a medical researcher come together and try to unravel the age old mystery of 106 acres single tree forest.
This book is a perfect thrilling and adventurous experience.
It is a mixture of horror and mystery written with simple phrases, making it a easy read for newbies and non readers.
- Ankita 🦋
Read
October 2, 2021En route Kasol:
amazing thriller novella, written in a very fast-paced way. beginner-friendly, a must-read for those who are starting their reading journey.
You can easily complete it in a couple of hours or a day.
This short thriller story’s plot is based in Kasol, near the Kullu district in India. A mix of thriller, science, and fiction. The story revolves around a mysterious stone inside a single tree pine forest that spreads across 106 acres, and stone of death. This forest holds a secret for more than 300 years, the secret no one dares to unravel, three friends try to solve it, and the story takes on interesting twists and turns. Overall a great book.
amazing thriller novella, written in a very fast-paced way. beginner-friendly, a must-read for those who are starting their reading journey.
You can easily complete it in a couple of hours or a day.
This short thriller story’s plot is based in Kasol, near the Kullu district in India. A mix of thriller, science, and fiction. The story revolves around a mysterious stone inside a single tree pine forest that spreads across 106 acres, and stone of death. This forest holds a secret for more than 300 years, the secret no one dares to unravel, three friends try to solve it, and the story takes on interesting twists and turns. Overall a great book.
September 18, 2021
EN ROUTE KASOL
BY ABHILASH GEETHA BALAN
It has 12 chapters and 85 pages, under the category of the novella. The best combination of mystery, thriller, horror, and science. The book is beginner-friendly, revolves around 3 main characters, and each owing its pivotal role in sharing the plot. Research about plants is remarkable which leads to an unexpected ending.
Overall, it’s a decent read in one go recommended for readers seeking a thrilling experience. Worth re-reading too!
Has the potential to be extended into a longer version.
BY ABHILASH GEETHA BALAN
It has 12 chapters and 85 pages, under the category of the novella. The best combination of mystery, thriller, horror, and science. The book is beginner-friendly, revolves around 3 main characters, and each owing its pivotal role in sharing the plot. Research about plants is remarkable which leads to an unexpected ending.
Overall, it’s a decent read in one go recommended for readers seeking a thrilling experience. Worth re-reading too!
Has the potential to be extended into a longer version.
September 14, 2025
En Route Kasol is a short thriller novella set in a small forest town. The story was really nice and I really enjoyed reading it. I got goosebumps twice. It's spine chilling. I liked the fact that there was lgbtq+ representation when I was NOT expecting that at all. I also liked that the story was well researched.
The execution of this story was carried upto 80%. I feel there is some more scope left. The writing seemed rushed at points. The ending seemed emptier compared to the rest of the book. Like there was a lot of build up, but the final ending did not live up to it. Not the climax, but just the dramatic-ness wasn't there.
Nevertheless, I really had a good time reading it!
It's the type of book that will get you into reading, and you will end up finishing it with a smile on your face.
The execution of this story was carried upto 80%. I feel there is some more scope left. The writing seemed rushed at points. The ending seemed emptier compared to the rest of the book. Like there was a lot of build up, but the final ending did not live up to it. Not the climax, but just the dramatic-ness wasn't there.
Nevertheless, I really had a good time reading it!
It's the type of book that will get you into reading, and you will end up finishing it with a smile on your face.
December 14, 2021
🌟 En Route Kasol
🌟Abilash Geetha Balan
🌟 Thriller
🌟 The book is set in a beautiful village of Kasol, Himachal Pradesh. The book starts by describing the place. It picks up pace right from the first chapter.
🌟 There happens to be a 106-acre ' Sucidial Forest', surrounded by the thickest Pine trees. The forest or the person who enters the forest kills themself by banging their head against the stone of death.
🌟 The actual thrill begins when Arjun and Ela, decide to trek to the Suicidal forest. Ela was hurt, and while returning, she couldn't help murmuring ' The headless Axeman '
🌟 Later, Arjun, Ela, and Anjana try to encode the myth of the Suicidal forest.
🌟 The book surely is a page-turner and you never realize when you reach the end. The author has done a great job writing this book. I highly appreciate the research done to write the book.
🌟 The book is Novella with just 85 pages, one of the best books if you want to cultivate a habit of reading.
🌟 The language is very easy and the book will send a chill down your spine.
🌟 Rating: 4/5
🌟Abilash Geetha Balan
🌟 Thriller
🌟 The book is set in a beautiful village of Kasol, Himachal Pradesh. The book starts by describing the place. It picks up pace right from the first chapter.
🌟 There happens to be a 106-acre ' Sucidial Forest', surrounded by the thickest Pine trees. The forest or the person who enters the forest kills themself by banging their head against the stone of death.
🌟 The actual thrill begins when Arjun and Ela, decide to trek to the Suicidal forest. Ela was hurt, and while returning, she couldn't help murmuring ' The headless Axeman '
🌟 Later, Arjun, Ela, and Anjana try to encode the myth of the Suicidal forest.
🌟 The book surely is a page-turner and you never realize when you reach the end. The author has done a great job writing this book. I highly appreciate the research done to write the book.
🌟 The book is Novella with just 85 pages, one of the best books if you want to cultivate a habit of reading.
🌟 The language is very easy and the book will send a chill down your spine.
🌟 Rating: 4/5
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