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A Touch of Eternity
Born on the same day and at the same time, Druvan and Anvesha know they are soulmates in every sense of the word. Their parents, however, refuse to accept their 'togetherness' at first and try to tear them apart. Druvan and Anvesha try their best to explain why that cannot happen.
In the same timeline, the world has made huge progress in science and some of the first experiments to combine the body and the soul have begun. This is an opportunity for them to prove their love and tell the world that it is love that can make the impossible, possible.
Druvan and Anvesha participate in the experiment as if their life depends on it, because it does. The only thing that remains to be seen is, will the dream of a man to control love and life come true? And when the time comes, can one stay true to their soulmate?
In the same timeline, the world has made huge progress in science and some of the first experiments to combine the body and the soul have begun. This is an opportunity for them to prove their love and tell the world that it is love that can make the impossible, possible.
Druvan and Anvesha participate in the experiment as if their life depends on it, because it does. The only thing that remains to be seen is, will the dream of a man to control love and life come true? And when the time comes, can one stay true to their soulmate?
256 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2021
129 people are currently reading
912 people want to read
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October 18, 2021How can something be so good but so bad at the same time!? I don't know how to rate this. Also there were a lot of spelling mistakes.
At some places I wanted to give it 4 stars and 2 at some so yeah...
At some places I wanted to give it 4 stars and 2 at some so yeah...
March 3, 2021
It started off well and had a different concept which was alluring since Durjoy Datta does not write this genre. However, upon reaching the mid of the book it kept dragging and all of a sudden there was a lot of sci-fi context thrown at readers. Now frankly, I don't mind that but it has to meet the momentum and mood of the entire book. For some reason, it tried sailing on both the romance angle and the sci-fi angle and it did not work for me (it may work for you). And then, the climax was too far-fetched. I'd say again, I'm okay with sci-fi but then the entire mood of the book should set up for that. Sadly, this book felt all over the place.
July 2, 2025
I don't know if I liked this book or not . Sometime i was enjoying the book and on the other side it was going downhill. I kinda find it weird that the story was not able to stick to one topic .
September 9, 2021
What was this? A science fiction or just the imagination of a writer gone amok. To begin with the story seemed interesting and the way it was being developed was also quite good. However, then came the scientific angle which seems too frivolous to even give it a benefit of doubt. I love Durjoy Datta's books and this one disappointed me.
May 20, 2022
Well, this is fictional i get it. But, IT'S KIND OF WEIRD IF YOU ASK ME. 2 souls, LOVERS- in one body? Erm...no. some scientific/philosophical parts were interesting but if you wanna read romance? This is not it. I didn't expect the book to be this way, but it was okay i guess.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2023
this was so complicated and I still don't understand what was the point of this book lol 😭.
Durjoy tried sci-fi and failed drastically. Pls don't do it again.
Durjoy tried sci-fi and failed drastically. Pls don't do it again.
April 12, 2021
I was really excited to read this book as I have enjoyed the other books by the author plus this book was out in January ( birthday month 😉)...and how can forget this beautiful book cover...it's just soooo pretty 😍❤.
This Book started well and is unique from the earlier concepts of Durjoy Datta's books. But I started to lose interest in it as the book progressed...it felt like the story was being stretched till it reached halfway. But I enjoyed how each character progressed in the story, along with crossing the difficulties that came their way. Here Druvan and Anvesha are shown as soul mates... Interesting, it was to see how the author showed them soulmates in every sense.
So in the first half, the story was at a moderate pace and as the story unfolded from the second half, everything goes fast pace.
So from halfway, the story goes under a major change as suddenly there is a lot of SciFi coming your way. Honestly, I love SciFi and so it was not a major issue for me. I enjoyed the scifi part as that was so detailed and I really appreciate the author's efforts for researching this much and put it out for us, beautifully. Like it's obviously fiction but some parts of the research such as old beliefs are true.
Like there is suddenly a new world in front of you, with all those science experiments, soul transfer, scientific research, political drama, reincarnation and of course the story of our soulmates evolved.
The author wanted to keep the harmony between romance and SciFi, but it somewhere went wrong...
And the ending was very unpredictable and is not something that you might wish for, plus the ending was wrapped too quickly.
At some point, it would surely force you to question your beliefs and even sometimes you would need to Google some concepts to know if it was true or not. But I really enjoyed the concept of soulmates, reincarnation and soul transfer...
The writing style was good as always, narration too was fine. The plot was interesting but someplace the blending failed...but it was okay.
But I really loved to see an Indian author to pick concepts like such. Hopefully, we will get more such interesting concept stories from our Indian authors.
This Book started well and is unique from the earlier concepts of Durjoy Datta's books. But I started to lose interest in it as the book progressed...it felt like the story was being stretched till it reached halfway. But I enjoyed how each character progressed in the story, along with crossing the difficulties that came their way. Here Druvan and Anvesha are shown as soul mates... Interesting, it was to see how the author showed them soulmates in every sense.
So in the first half, the story was at a moderate pace and as the story unfolded from the second half, everything goes fast pace.
So from halfway, the story goes under a major change as suddenly there is a lot of SciFi coming your way. Honestly, I love SciFi and so it was not a major issue for me. I enjoyed the scifi part as that was so detailed and I really appreciate the author's efforts for researching this much and put it out for us, beautifully. Like it's obviously fiction but some parts of the research such as old beliefs are true.
Like there is suddenly a new world in front of you, with all those science experiments, soul transfer, scientific research, political drama, reincarnation and of course the story of our soulmates evolved.
The author wanted to keep the harmony between romance and SciFi, but it somewhere went wrong...
And the ending was very unpredictable and is not something that you might wish for, plus the ending was wrapped too quickly.
At some point, it would surely force you to question your beliefs and even sometimes you would need to Google some concepts to know if it was true or not. But I really enjoyed the concept of soulmates, reincarnation and soul transfer...
The writing style was good as always, narration too was fine. The plot was interesting but someplace the blending failed...but it was okay.
But I really loved to see an Indian author to pick concepts like such. Hopefully, we will get more such interesting concept stories from our Indian authors.
February 6, 2021
Well, I have read quite a few Durjoy Datta's book. Must say this book was different than others. The books is about soulmates - Druvan and Anvesha, who are born at the same time, same place. The story book shows 2 parts - One were druvan and anvesha is growing up and crossing there own hurdles, and one were country is progressing in science, eventually, there was a breakthrough in reincarnation. So as the story progress, our soulmates are fighting a battle against death, and their only chance to survive and be together is to get into this reincarnation program.
The book started well, but frankly I lost interest as it progressed. Half way through i was bored out and tried to complete it somehow, because i wanted to know the end. And the end was not as expected. It was not really i could digest.
Durjoy Datta is no doubt a great writer. But this one was not a great hit for me. Good to see he has tried si-fi in his book, a different variant.
The book started well, but frankly I lost interest as it progressed. Half way through i was bored out and tried to complete it somehow, because i wanted to know the end. And the end was not as expected. It was not really i could digest.
Durjoy Datta is no doubt a great writer. But this one was not a great hit for me. Good to see he has tried si-fi in his book, a different variant.
February 7, 2021
After reading this book I am pretty sure, "Data Science is Future!"
Anyways, coming back to the book. It was an okay read. The concept of soul transfer was not new to me and therefore it didn't leave me totally flabbergasted. I already saw something very similar in Netflix series "100" and boy that is done so well that I doubt something will come close to it.
This book is definitely with a mind boggling concept. At some point it will surely force you to question your self and revise your own belief!
Anyways, coming back to the book. It was an okay read. The concept of soul transfer was not new to me and therefore it didn't leave me totally flabbergasted. I already saw something very similar in Netflix series "100" and boy that is done so well that I doubt something will come close to it.
This book is definitely with a mind boggling concept. At some point it will surely force you to question your self and revise your own belief!
December 28, 2021
Bleh. Such a boring story.
September 8, 2022
Giving it 1 star cause I can't give it 0 stars
March 10, 2021
Soulmate’s = Technology
The equation seems imbalanced. This was my assumption before completing this book. Technology and data science is the new future to human kind now. The impact of innovation is nowadays found in books too. Normalising virtual reality is the new trend.
Druvan and Anvesha born on the same day, same time and same place didn’t make them less than a perfect match made in heaven. Also their families being neighbors and good family friends their destiny was already verified. Although their togetherness was not acceptable to their families.
Twist drops when both their life starts depending on the new technology bought up by the parivar ruling over the country.
The end brings both the lovers to do or die situations. Either they live or they die. The question still remains the same will they still remain soulmate’s forever? The struggle and sacrifice made by Druvan and Anvesha will ultimately proof the quotation 𝐄𝐤 𝐣𝐢𝐬𝐦, 𝐝𝐨 𝐣𝐚𝐚𝐧.
I am very impressed with the plot of the book. Though this book is different from all the other books written by @durjoydutta. Special acknowledgement to the research work done for this book. The hypothesis pinned actually seems true.
The concept of Soul Transfer, The Rooh Collective and Soulmates Programme will force you to think twice before accepting the unbelievable concept.
If fiction and politics is your bowl of rice than definitely read this book. Imagining the non proven imagination is very unusual.
The equation seems imbalanced. This was my assumption before completing this book. Technology and data science is the new future to human kind now. The impact of innovation is nowadays found in books too. Normalising virtual reality is the new trend.
Druvan and Anvesha born on the same day, same time and same place didn’t make them less than a perfect match made in heaven. Also their families being neighbors and good family friends their destiny was already verified. Although their togetherness was not acceptable to their families.
Twist drops when both their life starts depending on the new technology bought up by the parivar ruling over the country.
The end brings both the lovers to do or die situations. Either they live or they die. The question still remains the same will they still remain soulmate’s forever? The struggle and sacrifice made by Druvan and Anvesha will ultimately proof the quotation 𝐄𝐤 𝐣𝐢𝐬𝐦, 𝐝𝐨 𝐣𝐚𝐚𝐧.
I am very impressed with the plot of the book. Though this book is different from all the other books written by @durjoydutta. Special acknowledgement to the research work done for this book. The hypothesis pinned actually seems true.
The concept of Soul Transfer, The Rooh Collective and Soulmates Programme will force you to think twice before accepting the unbelievable concept.
If fiction and politics is your bowl of rice than definitely read this book. Imagining the non proven imagination is very unusual.
August 14, 2023
Honesty, I was disappointed. I mean I read this book after reading " Ofcourse I love you till I find someone better" and this book wasn't what I expected.
Ek jaan do rooh, I mean what is this.
Since the starting of the book it was soulmate thing, it was nice then in the middle it was some reincarnation thing and at last their soul were in the guy body altogether.
It would have been good if it was either a romance book or a Sci-fi.
To me this book wasn't good enough.
Ek jaan do rooh, I mean what is this.
Since the starting of the book it was soulmate thing, it was nice then in the middle it was some reincarnation thing and at last their soul were in the guy body altogether.
It would have been good if it was either a romance book or a Sci-fi.
To me this book wasn't good enough.
October 18, 2022
Whenever I think about the novel 'A Touch Of Eternity' I won't be able to feel that sudden sense of normality or connectivity with it. No matter how good the read was, but, for me, it was GOOD JUST FOR THAT ONE TIME. I won't re-read it.
And trust me I am a huge sucker for re-living, and re-reading the moments I have already lived through the books, over and over again. But for sure I won't keep my eyes dotted on this one.
At some points, I was taken aback by the unrealistic scientific and technological approaches of the novel. But the book as a whole was fulfilling and an interesting read because it had a tinge of some things which are totally unrealistic and can not happen in our world any time soon. So, that was the only thing that kept me intrigued throughout the reading. And to pour out those intricate incidents with such a delicacy was remarkable.
And trust me I am a huge sucker for re-living, and re-reading the moments I have already lived through the books, over and over again. But for sure I won't keep my eyes dotted on this one.
At some points, I was taken aback by the unrealistic scientific and technological approaches of the novel. But the book as a whole was fulfilling and an interesting read because it had a tinge of some things which are totally unrealistic and can not happen in our world any time soon. So, that was the only thing that kept me intrigued throughout the reading. And to pour out those intricate incidents with such a delicacy was remarkable.
December 21, 2022
I hate it and like it at the same time.
Wtf did he just write??
The names and mention of irl people was hilarious 😂
Its my 2nd Durjoy datta book.
His concepts are fun but romance is too cringe yaar.
Itna pyaar nahi karna tha.
I love his addition of bengali everywhere
Wtf did he just write??
The names and mention of irl people was hilarious 😂
Its my 2nd Durjoy datta book.
His concepts are fun but romance is too cringe yaar.
Itna pyaar nahi karna tha.
I love his addition of bengali everywhere
February 2, 2023
Just another alternative of sleeping pills!
September 16, 2024
Because I can't give it 0 star
April 10, 2022
A touch of Eternity was not what I was expecting!
I have always loved books by Durjoy Dutta, the way he narrates a story at its own pace. His books have my daily dose of romances.
The story progresses into a new concept of reincarnation, & not just the conventional way. Mankind finally discovers the truth about the soul & its existence. The process of tracking the soul & transplanting it into humans to let a soul keep leaving with its consciousness alive.
Even though the conception of the story was interesting in so many ways, where it would keep you guessing what next. Some parts of it were silly for me. But this is a kind of a read, which you should not think about much & just enjoy what's coming next.
Among all these scientific theories, the story bloomed kinda nicely. I loved the chemistry between Druvan & Anvesha. Just the way a couple should be, always complementing each other. The fact that Druvanesha existed in a single body, was a little fictitious for me. But putting the notion of soulmates in a literal sense was a brilliant move, I guess.
The ending was just not for me. The whole story was entertaining, but nothing to be awed about.
I have always loved books by Durjoy Dutta, the way he narrates a story at its own pace. His books have my daily dose of romances.
The story progresses into a new concept of reincarnation, & not just the conventional way. Mankind finally discovers the truth about the soul & its existence. The process of tracking the soul & transplanting it into humans to let a soul keep leaving with its consciousness alive.
Even though the conception of the story was interesting in so many ways, where it would keep you guessing what next. Some parts of it were silly for me. But this is a kind of a read, which you should not think about much & just enjoy what's coming next.
Among all these scientific theories, the story bloomed kinda nicely. I loved the chemistry between Druvan & Anvesha. Just the way a couple should be, always complementing each other. The fact that Druvanesha existed in a single body, was a little fictitious for me. But putting the notion of soulmates in a literal sense was a brilliant move, I guess.
The ending was just not for me. The whole story was entertaining, but nothing to be awed about.
September 11, 2022
An okay read, love story somewhat got lost in between the science parts.
March 11, 2021
What comes to your mind when you hear the word Soulmates?
“A Touch of Eternity” by Durjoy Datta is an extraordinary story of a couple Anvesha and Druvan, who were to be perfect soulmates for each other since the time they were born. Born on the same day, at the same time, and are inseparable. But as the blurb says, when the time comes, can one stay true to their soulmate?
I have read quite a few books by Durjoy Datta, but this one was different from all his previous works. I picked this up, first because it was from Durjoy Datta and second because of its cover, so pretty, loved the cover. Yes, once again, he came up with a heart-warming love story though this time with a sci-fi twist. Beginning a few years ago, from the birth of our hero and heroine, the book kick starts with an engaging and gripping story.
This will take you into a whole new world of technology, where soul transfer is possible. Although, it is a fictional story, though through the pages of the book one can travel in the world where this concept is real.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of the book; it beautifully covers the relation of Anvesha and Druvan with each other, with their friends and family. What I liked the most is that the author has given proper character development to every person in the story. Alongside, a parallel plot that goes simultaneously in the book is related to a science experiment; a reincarnation program.
As the story progresses, we see how the ongoing reincarnation program and the life of Anvesha and Druvan get linked up. The book in its second half focuses mainly on the process of aatma/soul transfer, political drama, riots, mass murders etc. At this phase, it feels like the plot of soulmates was lost and overshadowed. I understand that the author wanted to provide a base to the science experiment but I guess it became a little extra, repetitive, and over the top. It could have been cut short.
However, I am glad that towards the end, the whole thing went back to our soulmates in the actual sense. “Ek Jism Do Jaan”… Science is Future; Future is Science.
“A Touch of Eternity” by Durjoy Datta is an extraordinary story of a couple Anvesha and Druvan, who were to be perfect soulmates for each other since the time they were born. Born on the same day, at the same time, and are inseparable. But as the blurb says, when the time comes, can one stay true to their soulmate?
I have read quite a few books by Durjoy Datta, but this one was different from all his previous works. I picked this up, first because it was from Durjoy Datta and second because of its cover, so pretty, loved the cover. Yes, once again, he came up with a heart-warming love story though this time with a sci-fi twist. Beginning a few years ago, from the birth of our hero and heroine, the book kick starts with an engaging and gripping story.
This will take you into a whole new world of technology, where soul transfer is possible. Although, it is a fictional story, though through the pages of the book one can travel in the world where this concept is real.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of the book; it beautifully covers the relation of Anvesha and Druvan with each other, with their friends and family. What I liked the most is that the author has given proper character development to every person in the story. Alongside, a parallel plot that goes simultaneously in the book is related to a science experiment; a reincarnation program.
As the story progresses, we see how the ongoing reincarnation program and the life of Anvesha and Druvan get linked up. The book in its second half focuses mainly on the process of aatma/soul transfer, political drama, riots, mass murders etc. At this phase, it feels like the plot of soulmates was lost and overshadowed. I understand that the author wanted to provide a base to the science experiment but I guess it became a little extra, repetitive, and over the top. It could have been cut short.
However, I am glad that towards the end, the whole thing went back to our soulmates in the actual sense. “Ek Jism Do Jaan”… Science is Future; Future is Science.
March 26, 2021
Touch of Eternity – Durjoy Dutta
What if forever actually turns out to be forever!!
How often have you read Dystopian books by Indian authors?
I have read very few and I am not sure whether my understanding is correct for this book to put it under the “Dystopian radar" or not but this is definitely something that is new and unique that I have read from an Indian author.
This book is not cliche Durjoy, in fact I would say its altogether a different world that he has created this time. Something whose existence is debatable since forever and has amazingly woven it with Anvesha ‘s and Druvan’s Love Story.
Trying not to give much spoilers - It’s a story of 2 soulmates out there in a world where souls are traded.. yess..!! Intrigued much.. read this out to know more.
Things I Liked – I thoroughly enjoyed the story line, the characters, in fact some indirect implications were hilarious(specially the one with media coverage😂)
I couldn't imagine the efforts gone behind this imagination. The details were so technical, I had to sometimes read twice to understand and that shows how intricate each and everything has been though about and penned.
Though, there were some places where I felt the plot being a little dragged or sometimes it felt liked completely absurd.. like how is this even possible.
But I guess, that's what creating a parallel world image does to you, where you know this is impossible or just not right but then again you go ahead to see what if it actually happens, how will it unfold then?....
I would definitely give Durjoy a thumbs up for sharing something so distinct with his readers this time..!
What if forever actually turns out to be forever!!
How often have you read Dystopian books by Indian authors?
I have read very few and I am not sure whether my understanding is correct for this book to put it under the “Dystopian radar" or not but this is definitely something that is new and unique that I have read from an Indian author.
This book is not cliche Durjoy, in fact I would say its altogether a different world that he has created this time. Something whose existence is debatable since forever and has amazingly woven it with Anvesha ‘s and Druvan’s Love Story.
Trying not to give much spoilers - It’s a story of 2 soulmates out there in a world where souls are traded.. yess..!! Intrigued much.. read this out to know more.
Things I Liked – I thoroughly enjoyed the story line, the characters, in fact some indirect implications were hilarious(specially the one with media coverage😂)
I couldn't imagine the efforts gone behind this imagination. The details were so technical, I had to sometimes read twice to understand and that shows how intricate each and everything has been though about and penned.
Though, there were some places where I felt the plot being a little dragged or sometimes it felt liked completely absurd.. like how is this even possible.
But I guess, that's what creating a parallel world image does to you, where you know this is impossible or just not right but then again you go ahead to see what if it actually happens, how will it unfold then?....
I would definitely give Durjoy a thumbs up for sharing something so distinct with his readers this time..!
August 11, 2024
I tried liking it. Honestly.. I did. Even if it was just because I wouldn't regret buying it.
But there's just something… ok I'm lying there's nothing in this book that could have made me love it.
It is a weird unmixable mix of romance, fantasy sci-fi and it just ended up being… well…. Ew.
I tried to atleast skim through but nope… could not move past 70 percentage. I had somehow managed to reach till there atleast. But after that shit just got too weird. No way was I stomaching it. This is just my personal view… maybe others might like it.
It's honestly not my type. I cannot for the love of bookgods never digest something like this.
Atleast it has a beautiful book cover… silver lining right??
But there's just something… ok I'm lying there's nothing in this book that could have made me love it.
It is a weird unmixable mix of romance, fantasy sci-fi and it just ended up being… well…. Ew.
I tried to atleast skim through but nope… could not move past 70 percentage. I had somehow managed to reach till there atleast. But after that shit just got too weird. No way was I stomaching it. This is just my personal view… maybe others might like it.
It's honestly not my type. I cannot for the love of bookgods never digest something like this.
Atleast it has a beautiful book cover… silver lining right??
February 13, 2022
My worst read till date.....anybody who has come here for the reviews....please please dont read this book....its the wost nightmare....there were 100s of moments when i thought that i am done with the book....but i didnt want to leave it midway....dont go by its beautiful cover....its a trap...never reading a Durjoy Datta again!!!!! I am just done with 3 of his works....this book being one of them!!!!!!
August 18, 2024
When I checked out the reviews for this book, none of them really talked ABOUT the book. So here's something for you.
Now, this book would've been a 5/5 from me if some parts didn't feel like the wrong pieces of a puzzle.
Firstly, beautiful cover. That 0.75 is for Akangsha Sarmah for designing the cover. Secondly, there were a few spelling errors. This was unexpected from a popular, bestselling author with a pan-Indian audience, signed with Penguins. If I'm not inaccurate, there were around 3 spelling errors. Thirdly, the plot was solid. Amazing. A masterstroke. (What have I to stroke? Lol.) The perfect blend of science fiction and romance. The satire that played out throughout the book? Insane. The way Durjoy Datt mocked the current ruling government of India, the traditional style of Indian parenting, the stress and pressure for Science after 10th, the changes made in the government-issued school books— brilliant. The easiest 5/5. Here's the reason why I felt it was worth a 2.
As I mentioned before, the spelling errors were majorly disappointing. One star cut off straight for that. There was an instance where the main character, Anvesha's name was errored as Avantika! Unexpected.
The first part made no sense. !SPOILER! How did Vidhi's biological parents NOT know that the mother was carrying a child who did not keep their hands folded, like normal babies, still in the womb? !SPOILER!
Some parts of the book were downright cringe; typical of bollywood commercial, blockbuster movies. Mob beating up gangsters? A 4-year old who's THIS much precocious? Yeah, that doesn't happen. Or what do I know, the main characters were special, after all. Not like the others. Lol.
For a book that was is such a textbook definition of "art imitates life", the social situation was rather utopian. But then again, this is fiction.
These were the reasons why I took off another star.
!SPOILER! In the end, when Anvesha and Druvan ended up succeeding in the Soulmates Programme and shared Druvan's body, heres a question that clicked in my mind: In the first chapter, Druvam had referred to Anvesha as the "mother of my unborn children." He also mentioned that they had "mind-bending sex." How does that biologically work out? They are two souls sharing the same body. Is masturbation considered sex when it's two souls in a body? I felt like this wasn't an open ending, but an obvious plothole. !SPOILER!
And finally, this was the biggest reason for my giving "A Touch Of Eternity" a 2.75/5. Whether you take my review seriously or with a pinch of salt is up to you. But despite all the flaws I felt needed to be pointed out, this was a fun, quick read; albeit in the beginning hard to get through because of how cringe it was at first. Lol. Have a good time. ♡
"A Touch Of Eternity" — 2.75/5.
Now, this book would've been a 5/5 from me if some parts didn't feel like the wrong pieces of a puzzle.
Firstly, beautiful cover. That 0.75 is for Akangsha Sarmah for designing the cover. Secondly, there were a few spelling errors. This was unexpected from a popular, bestselling author with a pan-Indian audience, signed with Penguins. If I'm not inaccurate, there were around 3 spelling errors. Thirdly, the plot was solid. Amazing. A masterstroke. (What have I to stroke? Lol.) The perfect blend of science fiction and romance. The satire that played out throughout the book? Insane. The way Durjoy Datt mocked the current ruling government of India, the traditional style of Indian parenting, the stress and pressure for Science after 10th, the changes made in the government-issued school books— brilliant. The easiest 5/5. Here's the reason why I felt it was worth a 2.
As I mentioned before, the spelling errors were majorly disappointing. One star cut off straight for that. There was an instance where the main character, Anvesha's name was errored as Avantika! Unexpected.
The first part made no sense. !SPOILER! How did Vidhi's biological parents NOT know that the mother was carrying a child who did not keep their hands folded, like normal babies, still in the womb? !SPOILER!
Some parts of the book were downright cringe; typical of bollywood commercial, blockbuster movies. Mob beating up gangsters? A 4-year old who's THIS much precocious? Yeah, that doesn't happen. Or what do I know, the main characters were special, after all. Not like the others. Lol.
For a book that was is such a textbook definition of "art imitates life", the social situation was rather utopian. But then again, this is fiction.
These were the reasons why I took off another star.
!SPOILER! In the end, when Anvesha and Druvan ended up succeeding in the Soulmates Programme and shared Druvan's body, heres a question that clicked in my mind: In the first chapter, Druvam had referred to Anvesha as the "mother of my unborn children." He also mentioned that they had "mind-bending sex." How does that biologically work out? They are two souls sharing the same body. Is masturbation considered sex when it's two souls in a body? I felt like this wasn't an open ending, but an obvious plothole. !SPOILER!
And finally, this was the biggest reason for my giving "A Touch Of Eternity" a 2.75/5. Whether you take my review seriously or with a pinch of salt is up to you. But despite all the flaws I felt needed to be pointed out, this was a fun, quick read; albeit in the beginning hard to get through because of how cringe it was at first. Lol. Have a good time. ♡
"A Touch Of Eternity" — 2.75/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2023
a book which tries to be more than what it wants to be, or more than what the plot demands.
starts of with quite a decent plot of two families who live in the same apartment and are so close that their lives are intertwined, but goes on to be a predictable tale of one family assembling wealth and the other family remaining the typical middle class household, thus leading to a ridge between them. durjoy attempts to take some political potshots or parallels after the families seperate, with the current right wing and their education policies and propaganda- driven policies being the target, but the arrow misses the centre circle by large and the targets become too obvious, weak and predictable.
the entire crux of the central plot- anvesha and druvan's love story- is, however, very amateurish. it relies on bizarre coincidences and hilarious superficial stuff, and the emotional part of it is quite cringey. the fact that they are born exactly at the same moment to two intertwined families is- a bit undigestable. in order to portray the so-called intensity, durjoy relies heavily on sex and sexuality which is perhaps more than what the plot demands. the fact that parents get to know of their sexual exploits, which leads to their seperation, which is followed by anvesha's life threatening disease, is very predictable in nature and monotonously the same as the plot of several daily made stories. now, the most interesting part. apparently, a firm and it's scientists build a lab and work out a formula to "transfer the soul of two people into one body and keep both living". in order to get selected for this program, there is a popular vote and anvesha and druvan come up to the top ranks. this is done by winning over public sympathy by "arranging a fake marriage" filled with emotional melodrama. druvan's body, at the end, houses both their souls as a result of a soul transplant. I mean, this entire plot could be laughed off, but let's just consider the hyperimaginative effort put in, and realize that a plot needn't be this critical at the basics- it just kills off the credibility of the entire plot, which is in any case supplimented by heavy, agonizing dramatization.
overall, the book may seem attractive for a few selective parts and quotes, but the plot, and the execution of the plot rests on a mere vacuum of quotational attractiveness.
starts of with quite a decent plot of two families who live in the same apartment and are so close that their lives are intertwined, but goes on to be a predictable tale of one family assembling wealth and the other family remaining the typical middle class household, thus leading to a ridge between them. durjoy attempts to take some political potshots or parallels after the families seperate, with the current right wing and their education policies and propaganda- driven policies being the target, but the arrow misses the centre circle by large and the targets become too obvious, weak and predictable.
the entire crux of the central plot- anvesha and druvan's love story- is, however, very amateurish. it relies on bizarre coincidences and hilarious superficial stuff, and the emotional part of it is quite cringey. the fact that they are born exactly at the same moment to two intertwined families is- a bit undigestable. in order to portray the so-called intensity, durjoy relies heavily on sex and sexuality which is perhaps more than what the plot demands. the fact that parents get to know of their sexual exploits, which leads to their seperation, which is followed by anvesha's life threatening disease, is very predictable in nature and monotonously the same as the plot of several daily made stories. now, the most interesting part. apparently, a firm and it's scientists build a lab and work out a formula to "transfer the soul of two people into one body and keep both living". in order to get selected for this program, there is a popular vote and anvesha and druvan come up to the top ranks. this is done by winning over public sympathy by "arranging a fake marriage" filled with emotional melodrama. druvan's body, at the end, houses both their souls as a result of a soul transplant. I mean, this entire plot could be laughed off, but let's just consider the hyperimaginative effort put in, and realize that a plot needn't be this critical at the basics- it just kills off the credibility of the entire plot, which is in any case supplimented by heavy, agonizing dramatization.
overall, the book may seem attractive for a few selective parts and quotes, but the plot, and the execution of the plot rests on a mere vacuum of quotational attractiveness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2023
Have you ever witnessed authors that try to write in different genres? I am curious.
I read A Touch Of Eternity, written by Durjoy Datta, lately. I love to try different genres, and this book has been on my shelf since September 2021. The book begins with two lovers- Dhruvan and Anvesha, wanting to write their story. Dhruvan and Anvesha were born on the same day to the two neighbours. These babies would cry and not sleep when separated, i.e., they seemed contended and slept when they lay next to each other. Dhruvan’s dad believes them to be soulmates.
The story begins at a slow pace to build up the plot. Mr Datta takes sufficient time to unfold the mysteries, but he does discuss three chapters in between to hint to the readers about its concept. Reading a science-fiction-themed storyline written by a romance writer could be puzzling, and that confirms why a few readers didn’t go forward with the book. There were instances when I felt he was trying to rush through to bring in the actual plot because there were a few inconsistent sentences. Anyway, the pace changed as we entered the principle scenario. It seemed like a thriller imparting dystopian vibes. It amazed me that he was going to try something different this time, and I wish that had been the case.
I wish there was a way to share the details without giving spoilers to his fans, but all I can offer is that I found the ending to be the obvious solution for him as he tried to keep his known-for genre intact. One can categorize the story as a Romantic Science Fiction Thriller. The title has been justified on both metaphorical and literary grounds. Also, the titles of the chapters were appropriate.
I suggest the concerned people at Sony Liv or Zee 5 ask the author to alter the ending and direct a web series with this plot because the thriller part was enthralling. Anyway, I admit that I was impressed with his imagination and the intricate details of the few violent scenes in the book, which include a few deaths. Nevertheless, Mr Datta must try his hand at the science fiction genre with not so cringe ending.
I read A Touch Of Eternity, written by Durjoy Datta, lately. I love to try different genres, and this book has been on my shelf since September 2021. The book begins with two lovers- Dhruvan and Anvesha, wanting to write their story. Dhruvan and Anvesha were born on the same day to the two neighbours. These babies would cry and not sleep when separated, i.e., they seemed contended and slept when they lay next to each other. Dhruvan’s dad believes them to be soulmates.
The story begins at a slow pace to build up the plot. Mr Datta takes sufficient time to unfold the mysteries, but he does discuss three chapters in between to hint to the readers about its concept. Reading a science-fiction-themed storyline written by a romance writer could be puzzling, and that confirms why a few readers didn’t go forward with the book. There were instances when I felt he was trying to rush through to bring in the actual plot because there were a few inconsistent sentences. Anyway, the pace changed as we entered the principle scenario. It seemed like a thriller imparting dystopian vibes. It amazed me that he was going to try something different this time, and I wish that had been the case.
I wish there was a way to share the details without giving spoilers to his fans, but all I can offer is that I found the ending to be the obvious solution for him as he tried to keep his known-for genre intact. One can categorize the story as a Romantic Science Fiction Thriller. The title has been justified on both metaphorical and literary grounds. Also, the titles of the chapters were appropriate.
I suggest the concerned people at Sony Liv or Zee 5 ask the author to alter the ending and direct a web series with this plot because the thriller part was enthralling. Anyway, I admit that I was impressed with his imagination and the intricate details of the few violent scenes in the book, which include a few deaths. Nevertheless, Mr Datta must try his hand at the science fiction genre with not so cringe ending.
November 16, 2023
Name : A Touch Of Eternity
Author : Durjoy Datta
Genre : Sci-fi rom-com
My 💭 :
Guys, this book! 2 days ago if you had told me that I would LOVE a sci-fi rom-com book written by Durjoy Datta, I would have laughed at you. Not kidding at all.
See, I don't really like cheesy Bollywood style romance. AT ALL. Recently I have started reading this author's works for the first time and I picked this book because of all the soulmate concept mentioned in the blurb. I thought the reincarnation experiment in the blurb was meant for comical sense, but when I started the book, I realised, to my growing excitement, that this is indeed a sci fi romcom 🤩! A hug kudos to the author for bringing this genre in Indian romcom and writing the story so engagingly and adeptly 🙌.
The story is about 'soulmates' Anvesha and Druvan. Soulmates, because they were born at the exact date and time with the same body weight and even falling sick together with the same ailment. You get it. I had expected a childhood friends to lovers romcom, but unexpectedly the characters decided to be together right from they were 4. Sigh. So I didn't feel much chemistry between them, but their bond was really cute.
I guess the major plot of the story is based on souls and reincarnation. Side by side with Anvesha and Druvan's story, we get to know about the brilliant minded character Damodarbhai Acharya, whose search for souls and the life beyond glued me to this book till I finished it. I am a huge science nerd and I LOVVVEE conspiracy theories about life and death. Now imagine souls and reincarnation being real and how it will affect the socio-economnic-political structures of a nation, it would have been utter chaos. All of these things were very briliantly written. So the whole plot of this book drew me in like a bee to a flower.
The ending twist weirded me out a teeeny tiny bit. For some reason I kept imagining Anvesha and Druvan as a 4 legged creature 🤭.
I will say this : the author is REALLY a good storyteller. This book was an unexpected good read!
P.S. That Ravinder Singh reference cracked me up 🤣.
Author : Durjoy Datta
Genre : Sci-fi rom-com
My 💭 :
Guys, this book! 2 days ago if you had told me that I would LOVE a sci-fi rom-com book written by Durjoy Datta, I would have laughed at you. Not kidding at all.
See, I don't really like cheesy Bollywood style romance. AT ALL. Recently I have started reading this author's works for the first time and I picked this book because of all the soulmate concept mentioned in the blurb. I thought the reincarnation experiment in the blurb was meant for comical sense, but when I started the book, I realised, to my growing excitement, that this is indeed a sci fi romcom 🤩! A hug kudos to the author for bringing this genre in Indian romcom and writing the story so engagingly and adeptly 🙌.
The story is about 'soulmates' Anvesha and Druvan. Soulmates, because they were born at the exact date and time with the same body weight and even falling sick together with the same ailment. You get it. I had expected a childhood friends to lovers romcom, but unexpectedly the characters decided to be together right from they were 4. Sigh. So I didn't feel much chemistry between them, but their bond was really cute.
I guess the major plot of the story is based on souls and reincarnation. Side by side with Anvesha and Druvan's story, we get to know about the brilliant minded character Damodarbhai Acharya, whose search for souls and the life beyond glued me to this book till I finished it. I am a huge science nerd and I LOVVVEE conspiracy theories about life and death. Now imagine souls and reincarnation being real and how it will affect the socio-economnic-political structures of a nation, it would have been utter chaos. All of these things were very briliantly written. So the whole plot of this book drew me in like a bee to a flower.
The ending twist weirded me out a teeeny tiny bit. For some reason I kept imagining Anvesha and Druvan as a 4 legged creature 🤭.
I will say this : the author is REALLY a good storyteller. This book was an unexpected good read!
P.S. That Ravinder Singh reference cracked me up 🤣.
May 7, 2021
Throughout my life, I have heard and read stories about reincarnation and soulmates. In fact the first YA book that I read was soulmate-based. To me, love is an emotion that staggers you, tears down all your defences, terrifies you. But is this really true? Is this really my own perception? Or is this is a perception that I've formulated over the years based on the type of content I consume - or the type of content that I've been exposed to via my gadgets.
'A Touch of Eternity' by Durjoy Dutta follows the age-old trope of two soulmates, Druvan and Anvesha, born on the same day, at the same time. Though, that is not all. It further expands into scientific fiction. Damodar Acharya, a multimillionaire businessman tries to carry out his dream, and pulls out all stops to do so. A dream that a lot of us think about in real life, but it feels like a far-fetched and laughable concept. The dream of reincarnation and soul transfer. However, Damodar is able to do so, and thus this marks the onset of a major scientific breakthrough.
Though the plot of the book is interesting, the story didn't sit very well with me. The love between Druvan and Anvesha really, really appealed to the diehard romantic within me. But the fact that the fate of their love was guided by a man's desire to control the cycle of birth and death, was something that I didn't like very much. The second half of the book was a bit fast-paced for my liking and failed to capture the essence of the story for me. The nitty-gritties of the scientific process of reincarnation failed to interest me much, though it might interest someone who is into the workings of the human brain and the complete science behind it. The book ends with the two lovers uniting for eternity - literally. At the end I'll leave you with this - we've always heard about 'Do Jism, Ek Jaan' (Two bodies, one soul); but have you ever wondered about 'Ek Jism, Do Jaan' (One body, two souls)
'A Touch of Eternity' by Durjoy Dutta follows the age-old trope of two soulmates, Druvan and Anvesha, born on the same day, at the same time. Though, that is not all. It further expands into scientific fiction. Damodar Acharya, a multimillionaire businessman tries to carry out his dream, and pulls out all stops to do so. A dream that a lot of us think about in real life, but it feels like a far-fetched and laughable concept. The dream of reincarnation and soul transfer. However, Damodar is able to do so, and thus this marks the onset of a major scientific breakthrough.
Though the plot of the book is interesting, the story didn't sit very well with me. The love between Druvan and Anvesha really, really appealed to the diehard romantic within me. But the fact that the fate of their love was guided by a man's desire to control the cycle of birth and death, was something that I didn't like very much. The second half of the book was a bit fast-paced for my liking and failed to capture the essence of the story for me. The nitty-gritties of the scientific process of reincarnation failed to interest me much, though it might interest someone who is into the workings of the human brain and the complete science behind it. The book ends with the two lovers uniting for eternity - literally. At the end I'll leave you with this - we've always heard about 'Do Jism, Ek Jaan' (Two bodies, one soul); but have you ever wondered about 'Ek Jism, Do Jaan' (One body, two souls)
March 24, 2021
Durjoy Datta is well known for giving us love stories. He emphasizes a particular stage of that love life, which is complicated but very relatable.
He slowly evolved into writing love stories that are out of the ordinary. This did not kill the "relatable" side of the stories as we still saw ourselves in the character's shoes relating to their emotions. This is the first best thing about his writing - his characters are the centerpiece.
For the last three books I have read from his collection, the plot twist is something I never expected from him. From being an author that gave a "close to home" kind of soft stories he became an author that gave "I did not know that is happening in this world" kind of stories.
Particularly talking about his style in A Touch Of Eternity, I feel he picked different elements like a love story (how Druvan and Anvesha evolve)-science fiction (reincarnation and man's control over death)- cult following that led to tragic incidents and connected them well. This is the second-best thing about the book.
The phase of the book is moderate until 2/3. Post that everything goes is a fast phase and keeps us very engaged.
One thing that I did not like about the book was the ending - predictable, was wrapped too quickly. But it does answer the biggest question the author asks...
"Eternity was never forever. We know we will die one day. So when you say, I will be with you forever it's 20 or 30 or 55 years.
But, what if eternity with a person is truly an eternity. Will you still say I will be with your forever to them?"
4 for writing style
4.5 for characters
4.5 for concept and story
Overall 4
He slowly evolved into writing love stories that are out of the ordinary. This did not kill the "relatable" side of the stories as we still saw ourselves in the character's shoes relating to their emotions. This is the first best thing about his writing - his characters are the centerpiece.
For the last three books I have read from his collection, the plot twist is something I never expected from him. From being an author that gave a "close to home" kind of soft stories he became an author that gave "I did not know that is happening in this world" kind of stories.
Particularly talking about his style in A Touch Of Eternity, I feel he picked different elements like a love story (how Druvan and Anvesha evolve)-science fiction (reincarnation and man's control over death)- cult following that led to tragic incidents and connected them well. This is the second-best thing about the book.
The phase of the book is moderate until 2/3. Post that everything goes is a fast phase and keeps us very engaged.
One thing that I did not like about the book was the ending - predictable, was wrapped too quickly. But it does answer the biggest question the author asks...
"Eternity was never forever. We know we will die one day. So when you say, I will be with you forever it's 20 or 30 or 55 years.
But, what if eternity with a person is truly an eternity. Will you still say I will be with your forever to them?"
4 for writing style
4.5 for characters
4.5 for concept and story
Overall 4
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