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A Rita Ferreira Thriller #1
Bhendi Bazaar
1982. Three teenage girls planning a flight from the Soviet Union to the West end up being sold in Mumbai's red-light area instead.The murders start a quarter of a century later.The victims are all men. All of them tricks, waiting for trysts with high-class escorts. DCP Rita Ferreira is quick to recognize the serial-killer strain; the media isn't far behind. The news sends shockwaves through the city. The first serial killer in living memory of Mumbai is out on the streets.As Rita grapples to establish the killer's pattern through Bhendi Bazaar, the killer gives her twenty-four hours to stop the next murder.Can she do that before she becomes the next victim?
Paperback
Published January 1, 2019
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About the author
Vish Dhamija
14 books106 followersWiki: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vish_Dh...
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Twitter: @vishdhamija
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Books:
Nothing Lasts Forever
Bhendi Bazaar
Deja Karma
Doosra
Nothing Else Matters
FB: https://www.facebook.com/VishDhamija/...
Twitter: @vishdhamija
Amazon India: http://tiny.cc/vishdhamija
Books:
Nothing Lasts Forever
Bhendi Bazaar
Deja Karma
Doosra
Nothing Else Matters
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 28, 2015
This Review is dedicated to our FORMER PRESIDENT OF INDIA Dr. APJ ABDUL KALAM .
Few Days back my Eldie gifted me this book to read and review it . Usually he doesn't but whenever he does , its a bang bang , so did this one !
Bhendi Bazaar was an entertaining & tightly woven tale read with multiple surprises , I buzzed through it in 24 hours . The Book moves at a quick pace with solid dose of tension and thrills , and keep me wondering how story going to turn out . With flawless writing , Author successfully managed to keep the twists and climax till the very last page . After reading this spell-bounding crime thriller , Author Vish Dhamija to me is the Audi of the Crime Thriller Market in India .
THe plot is set in a manner to put brain in top gear while flipping the pages . Bhendi Bazaar revolves around the a police detective DCP Rita Ferreira chasing an intelligent serial killer . Author has deeply pencil down the charachter of the main protagonist . Rita is portrayed as a sharp and equable officer with a voice that never betrayed her emotions ,her coffee brown eyes were known to be as quick to capture as a high speed cammera shutter with wide angled view . A police officer who drinks , lived on coffee and works better than any male counterpart . Plot rolls out with the phone call to DCP Rita alerting about a murder of Adit Lele who was found dead without any clothes and lay in a pool of blood . Initially murder is investigated as a homicide but further killing with very much identical manner flagged up the scenario of a Serial Killer in Mumbai . And with it starts the crispy journey of twists and turns . on some stances it felt as probability of finding the killer is not any greater than crossing the Atlantic in a a paper boat . Investigation of DCP carries out in 2007 , beside author has embedded a different story line staring three girls who landed in India for Asian Games in 1982 but never returned back to Soviet Union . Plot goes in a manner that both stories inter-wind with pages .
Beside the main protagonist , author deserves an applause for bolting side characters in an interesting way . Commissioner is nickenamed as Sexy who demonstrates his lexicon pompous prick which fills the space of humour on regular intervals . Joint CP Vijay Joshi is also portrayed in a mannered way .
What I Like in Book is :
* Author has put words as a strong coffee which left the taste of Serial Killer's Ideology .
* How world of prostitute is shown as a dark underbelly that no dared to talk about .
* How police officials works 24x7 , 365 days in year to keep the city safe but citizens never rise to praise them .
*How in India standard operating procedure are so ill that police needs to patch court orders to Mobile companies to zeroed down the mobile telephone coordinates of Culprits .
*Author has maturely flagged how immaturely electronic media of this nation handle any crisis . Opinioned stories are printed or shown to public .
* Author has also highlighted situations under which girls are dragged to the grey world of Prostitution .
*In the very initial of the Story , author feed with " Brain Drain " situation which is drains the bright future of Nation's development .
*How lawyers twisted the misery of victims into ambitions , evil desires for making some extra cash .
And the only situation with me on this piece is the fact that It should be stretched to some more pages and that's because , I'm loving the plot with reading .
So Its a Must Read !
Few Days back my Eldie gifted me this book to read and review it . Usually he doesn't but whenever he does , its a bang bang , so did this one !
Bhendi Bazaar was an entertaining & tightly woven tale read with multiple surprises , I buzzed through it in 24 hours . The Book moves at a quick pace with solid dose of tension and thrills , and keep me wondering how story going to turn out . With flawless writing , Author successfully managed to keep the twists and climax till the very last page . After reading this spell-bounding crime thriller , Author Vish Dhamija to me is the Audi of the Crime Thriller Market in India .
THe plot is set in a manner to put brain in top gear while flipping the pages . Bhendi Bazaar revolves around the a police detective DCP Rita Ferreira chasing an intelligent serial killer . Author has deeply pencil down the charachter of the main protagonist . Rita is portrayed as a sharp and equable officer with a voice that never betrayed her emotions ,her coffee brown eyes were known to be as quick to capture as a high speed cammera shutter with wide angled view . A police officer who drinks , lived on coffee and works better than any male counterpart . Plot rolls out with the phone call to DCP Rita alerting about a murder of Adit Lele who was found dead without any clothes and lay in a pool of blood . Initially murder is investigated as a homicide but further killing with very much identical manner flagged up the scenario of a Serial Killer in Mumbai . And with it starts the crispy journey of twists and turns . on some stances it felt as probability of finding the killer is not any greater than crossing the Atlantic in a a paper boat . Investigation of DCP carries out in 2007 , beside author has embedded a different story line staring three girls who landed in India for Asian Games in 1982 but never returned back to Soviet Union . Plot goes in a manner that both stories inter-wind with pages .
Beside the main protagonist , author deserves an applause for bolting side characters in an interesting way . Commissioner is nickenamed as Sexy who demonstrates his lexicon pompous prick which fills the space of humour on regular intervals . Joint CP Vijay Joshi is also portrayed in a mannered way .
What I Like in Book is :
* Author has put words as a strong coffee which left the taste of Serial Killer's Ideology .
* How world of prostitute is shown as a dark underbelly that no dared to talk about .
* How police officials works 24x7 , 365 days in year to keep the city safe but citizens never rise to praise them .
*How in India standard operating procedure are so ill that police needs to patch court orders to Mobile companies to zeroed down the mobile telephone coordinates of Culprits .
*Author has maturely flagged how immaturely electronic media of this nation handle any crisis . Opinioned stories are printed or shown to public .
* Author has also highlighted situations under which girls are dragged to the grey world of Prostitution .
*In the very initial of the Story , author feed with " Brain Drain " situation which is drains the bright future of Nation's development .
*How lawyers twisted the misery of victims into ambitions , evil desires for making some extra cash .
And the only situation with me on this piece is the fact that It should be stretched to some more pages and that's because , I'm loving the plot with reading .
So Its a Must Read !
December 18, 2015
In the last couple of months, I had been exploring different genres, swimming in partially or wholly untested waters, as I went through gripping tales of epic fantasy, teenage angst and science fiction. It had been some time since I had read a thriller, so I decided that it was high time I moved back to my favorite genre. When I found out about this book, I was enthralled, because Indian crime fiction was a novelty for me. So I decided to lay my hands on it.
Bhendi Bazaar has a well thought story line, and mostly moves at an even pace, alternating between the past and the present. The plot is not too intricate, so if you expect a mentally taxing narrative, this isn't going to supply the same. The protagonist Rita Ferreira is a likeable character, but I felt at times that the Crime Branch officers haven't made obvious conclusions, and look blankly at Ferreira for making easy deductions, which doesn't seem right. Also, apart from Rita, Joshi and Jatin, most other officers don't make any sort of impact on the reader, so I think the character development could have been better.
On the other hand, two of the Russian girls and the offspring of Varinka have been portrayed in a heart-wrenching manner, and make immediate emotional appeal. The culprit was an easy guess, as the author has left an obvious hint midway through the story, but the story behind him (or her) is a suspense worth reading for. I picked this up to feel the Indian flavor, and I was a little disappointed, as the story mostly deals with Mumbai only in connection with the plot, and slight details, humble openings into the buzz of the city haven't been stirred much.
So, yes, the plot is nice. It connects to the reader beautifully and can trigger emotions. Overall, it was an enjoyable reading experience, and if you are looking for Indian crime fiction, you can give this one a try.
Bhendi Bazaar has a well thought story line, and mostly moves at an even pace, alternating between the past and the present. The plot is not too intricate, so if you expect a mentally taxing narrative, this isn't going to supply the same. The protagonist Rita Ferreira is a likeable character, but I felt at times that the Crime Branch officers haven't made obvious conclusions, and look blankly at Ferreira for making easy deductions, which doesn't seem right. Also, apart from Rita, Joshi and Jatin, most other officers don't make any sort of impact on the reader, so I think the character development could have been better.
On the other hand, two of the Russian girls and the offspring of Varinka have been portrayed in a heart-wrenching manner, and make immediate emotional appeal. The culprit was an easy guess, as the author has left an obvious hint midway through the story, but the story behind him (or her) is a suspense worth reading for. I picked this up to feel the Indian flavor, and I was a little disappointed, as the story mostly deals with Mumbai only in connection with the plot, and slight details, humble openings into the buzz of the city haven't been stirred much.
So, yes, the plot is nice. It connects to the reader beautifully and can trigger emotions. Overall, it was an enjoyable reading experience, and if you are looking for Indian crime fiction, you can give this one a try.
May 8, 2015
What do you expect from a perfect crime thriller novel? It should be stunning regarding twist and turns, it should be nail biting regarding the suspense involved and it should be gripping throughout. Well, if you are searching an Indian Author who can deliver all what you demand in this particular genre, try Vish Dhamija’s Bhendi Bazaar.
The cover and the blurb of the book will make you pick up the book from the bookstore for sure and you’ll surely never regret your decision. The story of the novel is divided in two sections. The first one is about three teenage girls planning a flight from the Soviet Union to the West end up being sold in Mumbai’s red-light area instead. This part of the story is set in the year 1982. The other part starts with the second chapter itself, it is set in the year 2007 and is about some strange murders that are being investigated by the protagonist Rita Ferreira. Both the stories are entangled throughout the novel very beautifully, it never confuses or breaks the flow of the reader. Author, very cleverly merges both the stories in the end with a stunning climax. The life of the protagonist is written in detail and it creates a bond of the reader with Rita.
Vish Dhamija’s writing style and detailed research over the topic gives the novel a perfect edge over other authors in the same genre. I loved the tag line written over the cover which says, ‘Vish Dhamija- The crime writer other crime writers are talking about.’ Once you finish the book, you’ll surely understand why this line was written.
Either you love this genre or not, I’ll surely recommend this book to all. I am eagerly waiting for his next novel which is scheduled to get released in the end of this year or in early next year.
The cover and the blurb of the book will make you pick up the book from the bookstore for sure and you’ll surely never regret your decision. The story of the novel is divided in two sections. The first one is about three teenage girls planning a flight from the Soviet Union to the West end up being sold in Mumbai’s red-light area instead. This part of the story is set in the year 1982. The other part starts with the second chapter itself, it is set in the year 2007 and is about some strange murders that are being investigated by the protagonist Rita Ferreira. Both the stories are entangled throughout the novel very beautifully, it never confuses or breaks the flow of the reader. Author, very cleverly merges both the stories in the end with a stunning climax. The life of the protagonist is written in detail and it creates a bond of the reader with Rita.
Vish Dhamija’s writing style and detailed research over the topic gives the novel a perfect edge over other authors in the same genre. I loved the tag line written over the cover which says, ‘Vish Dhamija- The crime writer other crime writers are talking about.’ Once you finish the book, you’ll surely understand why this line was written.
Either you love this genre or not, I’ll surely recommend this book to all. I am eagerly waiting for his next novel which is scheduled to get released in the end of this year or in early next year.
January 12, 2015
I finished the book in two days, which is rare for me.
Terrific book on many levels. Well researched and vivid. Love the protagonist Rita Ferreira and I really hope the author extends her life beyond this novel.
Bhendi Bazaar is a saga that spans a quarter of a century, which by no means is easy to write and still keep the reader interested, but Vish Dhamija has succeeded. The story opens in 1982 when three tourists are trafficked into Mumbai’s red light area. And the second chapter brings the reader back into the present time (2007) as the murders start to take place in Mumbai and Rita Ferreira is introduced as the lead detective. As Rita’s investigation progresses, there are flashback chapters in between that take the reader through the lives of the three tourists, till it becomes obvious (to Rita) that the mystery to the murders lies buried in the past (I won’t say any more now). Essentially, Bhendi Bazaar is two stories in different eras interwoven together to bring to a single climax. It unfolds with many surprises (remember the author has 25 years to play around with so be prepared for a lot of twists and turns along the way).
It made me smile at times, but at times it made me sad at times too.
Terrific book on many levels. Well researched and vivid. Love the protagonist Rita Ferreira and I really hope the author extends her life beyond this novel.
Bhendi Bazaar is a saga that spans a quarter of a century, which by no means is easy to write and still keep the reader interested, but Vish Dhamija has succeeded. The story opens in 1982 when three tourists are trafficked into Mumbai’s red light area. And the second chapter brings the reader back into the present time (2007) as the murders start to take place in Mumbai and Rita Ferreira is introduced as the lead detective. As Rita’s investigation progresses, there are flashback chapters in between that take the reader through the lives of the three tourists, till it becomes obvious (to Rita) that the mystery to the murders lies buried in the past (I won’t say any more now). Essentially, Bhendi Bazaar is two stories in different eras interwoven together to bring to a single climax. It unfolds with many surprises (remember the author has 25 years to play around with so be prepared for a lot of twists and turns along the way).
It made me smile at times, but at times it made me sad at times too.
February 8, 2016
This book was recommended to me by a friend. And this happens to be one of the most thrilling books I've read!
The story is about three girls from Soviet Union who end up in getting sold in the red light district of Mumbai. But a serial killer emerges from within them a few years later killing men who take advantage of young girls.
But anyone can deduce the pattern, but how can anyone find the killer without a clue? There is a lot of twists and suspense involved taking a reader through one of the most horrible profession in existence. The thoughts involved and the perspectives that emerge can lead the reader in some direction but in the end the story is left for the reader to think. Was it the right thing to do? Is revenge really the way to stop something? Is Death the only judgement in face of life that is honest?
For a detailed review visit my blog: https://dreambookreviews.wordpress.co...
The story is about three girls from Soviet Union who end up in getting sold in the red light district of Mumbai. But a serial killer emerges from within them a few years later killing men who take advantage of young girls.
But anyone can deduce the pattern, but how can anyone find the killer without a clue? There is a lot of twists and suspense involved taking a reader through one of the most horrible profession in existence. The thoughts involved and the perspectives that emerge can lead the reader in some direction but in the end the story is left for the reader to think. Was it the right thing to do? Is revenge really the way to stop something? Is Death the only judgement in face of life that is honest?
For a detailed review visit my blog: https://dreambookreviews.wordpress.co...
May 14, 2016
Liked it. It's fast paced, heart wrenching at a few places and to the point without too many diversions. Language is average, writing is witty. There are ample hints to help you guess the killer, yet the end is unpredictable (Smug alert: I guessed it though)
What I particularly didn't like- unnecessary details of how good looking/sexy Rita is. The location is in Mumbai, but the language is absolutely inspired by American writing. Who uses the word Glock for a pistol in Indian English? Or calls a sweeper 'Janitor'?
Overall a good read nonetheless
What I particularly didn't like- unnecessary details of how good looking/sexy Rita is. The location is in Mumbai, but the language is absolutely inspired by American writing. Who uses the word Glock for a pistol in Indian English? Or calls a sweeper 'Janitor'?
Overall a good read nonetheless
July 9, 2016
This the my first exposure to the work of Vish and am very impressed.
As a crime thriller, the plot is very well designed and set in a very authentic setup. The pace is gripping, does not let the reader's mind to wander away too much. The language and writing is also very good.
The characters are well chosen. I loved the fact that Vish chose to give the role of the protagonist to a female. This is important to break stereotypes, even if it is a work of fiction
Look forward to read more of his works
As a crime thriller, the plot is very well designed and set in a very authentic setup. The pace is gripping, does not let the reader's mind to wander away too much. The language and writing is also very good.
The characters are well chosen. I loved the fact that Vish chose to give the role of the protagonist to a female. This is important to break stereotypes, even if it is a work of fiction
Look forward to read more of his works
January 13, 2015
Looking for a book that gets you thinking? That makes you want to come back to it at the end of the work day...(reading at work is usually not recommended..and believe me I was tempted!)..spanning decades but taut...well researched..fun and most of all relatable human characters.
Keeping mystery going is tough..putting in a twist or two is tougher..Vish Dhamija has managed both..
Great read.Pick it up for a well written edge of seat plot.
Keeping mystery going is tough..putting in a twist or two is tougher..Vish Dhamija has managed both..
Great read.Pick it up for a well written edge of seat plot.
March 10, 2016
A gripping tale which offers you a suspenseful ride, an entertaining journey which keeps you glued to it till you unfold the hidden secrets and discover the end. If you are a mystery lover and love to read suspenseful tales, then you could blindly choose this book. Also if you liked Vish’s debut book, ’Nothing Last Forever’, then this book won’t disappoint you.
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Connect to read full review : http://madhyapradesh.johntext.de/revi...
January 16, 2015
Ingeniously plotted and rich in characterization, Bhendi Baazar is a highly readable crime thriller that is part psychological and part detective. Twists and turns in the narrative, fused skillfully, intensify the suspense, bringing up an end that is both bewildering and satisfying at the same time. Highly recommended.
September 28, 2023
BHENDI BAZAAR
Rating 3/5
A decent thriller plot. Some chapters in the middle are too draggy. Otherwise a good mystery novel which we can give a try.
Rating 3/5
A decent thriller plot. Some chapters in the middle are too draggy. Otherwise a good mystery novel which we can give a try.
March 4, 2018
Actual Rating 3.5/5
I don't know why, but I am always sceptic when I see a mystery novel from an Indian writer. I look at it as a desparate attempt to make it into film industry which most Indians are obsessed with. This book was lying on my shelf for too long until last week when I decided to read this.
This is not a story of one or two characters per se. There is no clearly defined protagonist and antagonist in this book. If you look at the characters with a broad mindset, then you'll realize this fact. It's not the story of just three Russian girls. It's not juat the story of "whoreson", Jay Desai. It's not just the story of DCP Rita. All these characters are entwined into each others lives somehow to make a mystery-thriller.
It's 1982 Asian games when three Russian girls come to India to participate in thr events. They have other plans than just to participate in games. They decide to free themselves off from the clutches of commie government. Unfortunately for them, they end up in the world of prostitution in Bhendi Bazar. A few years later one of them, Vivian, gives birth to a boy, Jay Desai. Vivian commits suicide which leads Jay to an orphanage.
It's year 2007. DCP Rita is troubled and challenged by a serial killer on prowl in Mumbai. She finds some help in form of Ash Mittal, her old friend who is now a criminal profiler working for government of UK. With every kill, serial killer is taunting her to catch him. Will she ever catch the killer? Is there any connection between the three Russian girls and killings? Read the book to solve the mystery.
I must congratulate the author for writing a book which is engrossing. It is not difficult to know who is killing if you read and think clearly. But the way it's written, the doubts created by the characters turns a simple story into one filled with twists and turns. Climax is surprising. Your guess is correct but it has a twist in the end. Its possible to finish reading this in one sitting, which I think some of you will be forced to once you start reading.
If you are looking for an Indian mystery-thriller, you should read this. It won't disappoint.
I don't know why, but I am always sceptic when I see a mystery novel from an Indian writer. I look at it as a desparate attempt to make it into film industry which most Indians are obsessed with. This book was lying on my shelf for too long until last week when I decided to read this.
This is not a story of one or two characters per se. There is no clearly defined protagonist and antagonist in this book. If you look at the characters with a broad mindset, then you'll realize this fact. It's not the story of just three Russian girls. It's not juat the story of "whoreson", Jay Desai. It's not just the story of DCP Rita. All these characters are entwined into each others lives somehow to make a mystery-thriller.
It's 1982 Asian games when three Russian girls come to India to participate in thr events. They have other plans than just to participate in games. They decide to free themselves off from the clutches of commie government. Unfortunately for them, they end up in the world of prostitution in Bhendi Bazar. A few years later one of them, Vivian, gives birth to a boy, Jay Desai. Vivian commits suicide which leads Jay to an orphanage.
It's year 2007. DCP Rita is troubled and challenged by a serial killer on prowl in Mumbai. She finds some help in form of Ash Mittal, her old friend who is now a criminal profiler working for government of UK. With every kill, serial killer is taunting her to catch him. Will she ever catch the killer? Is there any connection between the three Russian girls and killings? Read the book to solve the mystery.
I must congratulate the author for writing a book which is engrossing. It is not difficult to know who is killing if you read and think clearly. But the way it's written, the doubts created by the characters turns a simple story into one filled with twists and turns. Climax is surprising. Your guess is correct but it has a twist in the end. Its possible to finish reading this in one sitting, which I think some of you will be forced to once you start reading.
If you are looking for an Indian mystery-thriller, you should read this. It won't disappoint.
December 3, 2019
https://itchingtoread.blogspot.com/20...
My Opinion
It is evident that Vish Dhamija likes the English language. This book has introduced me to many new words and slangs that I had not come across earlier. The character Saxena, otherwise known as Sexy by his juniors is perhaps the mouthpiece through which Vish uses new words- I love them, all of the new words, and I like that Harper Collins did not dumb the book down for masses, as many mass books do. They let the complex words flow into the book and even though I was forced to look up the word, I liked it, but then I enjoy the language.
I also liked the character of Ash, the way he interprets the crime scene and the character of the murderer and never dismisses Rita's opinion, leading her on to the solution rather than pushing his opinion. HE is a perfect foil to Ritas observational brain, he gives logic to her fact searching and they form a great team, out of the police circuit though. Clearly shows how an outside mind can give a perspective which the ones close to the problem may overlook.
And coming to the protagonist- Rita, I love the way Vish has created her sensitively- I thought the author was a woman, so well crafted she is and so well balanced in her approach to the case. Rita carries herslef well throughout the book, her deduction is sound and her approach is easy. She is relatable and easy to identify with. The book meanders in parts, wish the editing was quicker but then that is what makes it a slow and delish read- typical Harper Collins style.
Readometer- intriguing, engrossing, long delish read
My Opinion
It is evident that Vish Dhamija likes the English language. This book has introduced me to many new words and slangs that I had not come across earlier. The character Saxena, otherwise known as Sexy by his juniors is perhaps the mouthpiece through which Vish uses new words- I love them, all of the new words, and I like that Harper Collins did not dumb the book down for masses, as many mass books do. They let the complex words flow into the book and even though I was forced to look up the word, I liked it, but then I enjoy the language.
I also liked the character of Ash, the way he interprets the crime scene and the character of the murderer and never dismisses Rita's opinion, leading her on to the solution rather than pushing his opinion. HE is a perfect foil to Ritas observational brain, he gives logic to her fact searching and they form a great team, out of the police circuit though. Clearly shows how an outside mind can give a perspective which the ones close to the problem may overlook.
And coming to the protagonist- Rita, I love the way Vish has created her sensitively- I thought the author was a woman, so well crafted she is and so well balanced in her approach to the case. Rita carries herslef well throughout the book, her deduction is sound and her approach is easy. She is relatable and easy to identify with. The book meanders in parts, wish the editing was quicker but then that is what makes it a slow and delish read- typical Harper Collins style.
Readometer- intriguing, engrossing, long delish read
September 5, 2017
The book is stunning regarding twists and turns, suspense, and is gripping throughout. The story is divided into two sub-stories. The first one starts with three teenage Russian athletes coming to India to take part in the 1982 Asian games. What the others in their troupe are not aware is that these girls are planning never to return to Russia but to escape to Europe. However, they end up being sold in Mumbai’s red-light area. The second story is set in the year 2007 in Mumbai and is about few murders that Mumbai Crime Branch’s DCP Rita Ferreria and her team is investigating. As more people die, the DCP realizes there is a serial killer on the loose.
The story goes back and forth between the murders and the three girls. The girls who assume that life will be a bed of roses after they escape from Russia do not realize that life would become a living hell when they are tricked into prostitution and live a life of pain and sorrow. The two stories have been interwoven brilliantly never confusing the reader or break the flow. The climax where the two stories merge has also been presented beautifully.
Ingeniously plotted and rich in characterization, Bhendi Baazar is a highly-readable crime thriller that is part psychological and part detective. Twists and turns in the narrative, fused skillfully, intensify the suspense, bringing up an end that is both bewildering and satisfying at the same time.
One ends up sympathizing with the girls and the killer, at least I did. I felt sorry for the reasons that turned a human into a serial killer.
The story goes back and forth between the murders and the three girls. The girls who assume that life will be a bed of roses after they escape from Russia do not realize that life would become a living hell when they are tricked into prostitution and live a life of pain and sorrow. The two stories have been interwoven brilliantly never confusing the reader or break the flow. The climax where the two stories merge has also been presented beautifully.
Ingeniously plotted and rich in characterization, Bhendi Baazar is a highly-readable crime thriller that is part psychological and part detective. Twists and turns in the narrative, fused skillfully, intensify the suspense, bringing up an end that is both bewildering and satisfying at the same time.
One ends up sympathizing with the girls and the killer, at least I did. I felt sorry for the reasons that turned a human into a serial killer.
July 11, 2020
The highly watered down James Ellroy influences show a bit at the service of Indianization and readability, but there's a limit to the masala that one can stomach. The drawn out ending and the over-obvious deductions are pure 80s Bollywood-ish, and the writing and editing quite dreadful.
Vish Dhamija treats writing as a bunch of attempts at finding words in a dictionary. The words found, though not complicated, are used in certain contexts in a jarring (and, sometimes, even out-of-context) manner. And all of these insecurities are projected onto the Mumbai Commissioner of Police.
One instance of ignorance and/or indifference on part of the author and the editor relates to calling "Bombay Brasserie" "Bombay Brassiere" LOL. And there is a lapse in consistency when the three Russian girls were waiting for Mr. Patel near Gateway of India in 1992. Mr. Patel, described first as being in a check shirt, was with another guy in a blue shirt. In the same page, the author switched all of a sudden to Mr. Patel being in a blue shirt and the other guy in checks and stayed there for a while.
More native proficiency in the English language would've helped this book quite a bit.
Vish Dhamija treats writing as a bunch of attempts at finding words in a dictionary. The words found, though not complicated, are used in certain contexts in a jarring (and, sometimes, even out-of-context) manner. And all of these insecurities are projected onto the Mumbai Commissioner of Police.
One instance of ignorance and/or indifference on part of the author and the editor relates to calling "Bombay Brasserie" "Bombay Brassiere" LOL. And there is a lapse in consistency when the three Russian girls were waiting for Mr. Patel near Gateway of India in 1992. Mr. Patel, described first as being in a check shirt, was with another guy in a blue shirt. In the same page, the author switched all of a sudden to Mr. Patel being in a blue shirt and the other guy in checks and stayed there for a while.
More native proficiency in the English language would've helped this book quite a bit.
July 31, 2020
After reading the book titled ' nothing lasts forever' I had lots of expectations on this book. Reading the first few pages, I could sense that this book is a complete Fiasco. But after a travel of few more pages:
This book makes the reader to visit the dark side of society, aghast to know what's all going behind our incognizance and finally leaving us to a moral quandary. Yes dhamija I liked your point " heads and tails are different sides of the same coin." Perfect masterpiece for all crime fiction fans out there.
Note: Although the book has got a gripping plot but what made me give a 4 rating? It's the vocabulary used in the book. God !! I don't think many readers would enjoy reading this novel because of the tough words used which might bring down the interest to read the book in one go. Thanks to kindle ...it made my reading easier.
This book makes the reader to visit the dark side of society, aghast to know what's all going behind our incognizance and finally leaving us to a moral quandary. Yes dhamija I liked your point " heads and tails are different sides of the same coin." Perfect masterpiece for all crime fiction fans out there.
Note: Although the book has got a gripping plot but what made me give a 4 rating? It's the vocabulary used in the book. God !! I don't think many readers would enjoy reading this novel because of the tough words used which might bring down the interest to read the book in one go. Thanks to kindle ...it made my reading easier.
December 5, 2020
Finally I read it, a great crime thriller book after a very long time. The book talks about the prostitute and the story revolves around DCP Ferreria. The story starts in 1982, when three girls were going to Russia from India but they never reached. Then, suddenly murders started one by one in the year 2007. And this case is given to DCP Rita Ferreria who was smart and best suited for the job. And her assistant Vikram and Jatin helped to solve the case.
This book was an emotional read as well in which it shows the life of a prostitute. I liked the other characters also Ash Mattel, Margaret, Viviane. And Anita Raizada also played a great role in the book. In this book, the "men" is shown quite horribly.
Overall, I liked this book very much and if you are looking for a good thriller book, then you should definitely pick up the book.
This book was an emotional read as well in which it shows the life of a prostitute. I liked the other characters also Ash Mattel, Margaret, Viviane. And Anita Raizada also played a great role in the book. In this book, the "men" is shown quite horribly.
Overall, I liked this book very much and if you are looking for a good thriller book, then you should definitely pick up the book.
December 14, 2018
More like a 3.5 stars.
Bhendi Bazaar is a rare Indian thriller that does not insult the intelligence of the reader. The characters are interesting, though half-baked and had the potential to be detailed further. The entire back and forth of different timelines (1982 and 2007) is done effortlessly and creates intrigue. The book could have been a tad bit shorter though, crisper rather and maybe the impact would have been even better. Unforuntately, I saw the ending coming but I am convinced I am in the micro minority here for the most ardent readers will be shocked by the brilliantly crafted ending.
Bhendi Bazaar is a rare Indian thriller that does not insult the intelligence of the reader. The characters are interesting, though half-baked and had the potential to be detailed further. The entire back and forth of different timelines (1982 and 2007) is done effortlessly and creates intrigue. The book could have been a tad bit shorter though, crisper rather and maybe the impact would have been even better. Unforuntately, I saw the ending coming but I am convinced I am in the micro minority here for the most ardent readers will be shocked by the brilliantly crafted ending.
January 30, 2020
An interesting crime thriller by an Indian author. DCP Rita is faced with serial murders in Mumbai of affluent men and has to work hard to catch the perpetrators.
The story is of the prostitution racket and the entire underground network of crime in Mumbai. Moving timeliness between 2007 and 1982 onwards the story builds up gradually to how the murderer becomes one. The author manages to build up decent investigation procedures by the crime branch. Nothing fancy or unbelievable.
Absorbing read but average language and editing.
Vish Dhamija is an author to be read especially if one has interest in indian crime writing.
The story is of the prostitution racket and the entire underground network of crime in Mumbai. Moving timeliness between 2007 and 1982 onwards the story builds up gradually to how the murderer becomes one. The author manages to build up decent investigation procedures by the crime branch. Nothing fancy or unbelievable.
Absorbing read but average language and editing.
Vish Dhamija is an author to be read especially if one has interest in indian crime writing.
August 3, 2018
Well written.
The plotting was well thought out and the language and style kept me reading. I like the different similies and metaphors used and this book will keep you guessing until the end. It's good to know that such authors are still coming up in the industry and it's not just the 'Bollywood in Book' authors who are getting popularity.
They call Dhamija the Grisham of India but I would pick Dhamija's book over Grisham's any day.
The plotting was well thought out and the language and style kept me reading. I like the different similies and metaphors used and this book will keep you guessing until the end. It's good to know that such authors are still coming up in the industry and it's not just the 'Bollywood in Book' authors who are getting popularity.
They call Dhamija the Grisham of India but I would pick Dhamija's book over Grisham's any day.
June 8, 2017
Good read
Would have probably got another star had the author avoided being like 'Sexy'; consistently using certain words to showcase knowledge of the dictionary seemed juvenile. Apart from that constant minor irritant, made for a good read
Would have probably got another star had the author avoided being like 'Sexy'; consistently using certain words to showcase knowledge of the dictionary seemed juvenile. Apart from that constant minor irritant, made for a good read
April 8, 2018
The narrative kept me engrossed.
Read the sample first but was so intrigued that i had to read the whole book.. Loved it. Restarted reading after a long time and m glad that i did it.
Read the sample first but was so intrigued that i had to read the whole book.. Loved it. Restarted reading after a long time and m glad that i did it.
January 6, 2019
Very near, yet far!
Looked like a T20 match- entertaining. Proceeding further, it unfolded as an ODI- engrossing. Continuing, thinking that the match would be a close finish, the direction took a complete U-Turn. Phew! It ended as Test Match- Drawn.
Looked like a T20 match- entertaining. Proceeding further, it unfolded as an ODI- engrossing. Continuing, thinking that the match would be a close finish, the direction took a complete U-Turn. Phew! It ended as Test Match- Drawn.
June 25, 2021
What a Fabulous Thriller!
The story takes you on a time travel between 80's and 00's. You never knew what is coming. And the ending! You would never expect such an ending! The story just keep you hooked.
The story takes you on a time travel between 80's and 00's. You never knew what is coming. And the ending! You would never expect such an ending! The story just keep you hooked.
November 11, 2021
If you enjoy dark fiction definitely go for this one. I loved every bit of this book from the the protagonist being a women to how suspenseful and satisfying the ending was.
I lived every bit of it. I remember gasping and being shocked during reading it.
Definitely a amazing book
I lived every bit of it. I remember gasping and being shocked during reading it.
Definitely a amazing book
January 21, 2024
BhendiBazaar - VishDhamija
It's a dark fiction and racy crime thriller, it makes u travel through the dark alleys of life that truly exits in every corner of the world.
Impressed with the writing style which keeps the narration interesting till the end..
It's a dark fiction and racy crime thriller, it makes u travel through the dark alleys of life that truly exits in every corner of the world.
Impressed with the writing style which keeps the narration interesting till the end..
November 12, 2017
you guess the killer in the early chapter itself and the middle of the book you conclude that its transgender
August 8, 2018
[Detailed review is available at: https://thinkerviews.com/books/englis...]
Summarized reviews coming soon.
3.5 stars out of 5
Summarized reviews coming soon.
3.5 stars out of 5
October 16, 2018
Fast one.
A good crime novel. Story runs fast keeping you guessing and guessing. A little slow paced at start but it catches up the pace again till end.
A good crime novel. Story runs fast keeping you guessing and guessing. A little slow paced at start but it catches up the pace again till end.
April 15, 2019
Hard hitting and gritty
A gem of a thriller from Dhamija with his eye for details, impeccable writing, and settings and characters seeped in reality.
A gem of a thriller from Dhamija with his eye for details, impeccable writing, and settings and characters seeped in reality.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews