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Samsara: Enter the Valley of the Gods
WHAT IF YOU CAME FACE TO FACE WITH THE KING OF THE GODS?
Phones stop working. Smartwatches die out. Arms start glowing with blue scars.
And training begins the very next day for Aman Chandra and ten other Souls of Samsara, who are kidnapped from modern-day India and transported to a hidden valley in the Himalayas. In this realm of magic, home to Hindu gods, immortal yogis and mythical beasts, the mission is clear for the Souls of Samsara: to learn the ancient art of yogic sorcery and prepare within one year for a treacherous journey not many can survive.
But why must they go on this journey? And how are the gods connected to it all?
Before they get any answers, the Souls of Samsara realize that there is a larger scheme at play. The king of the gods has passed a controversial order. And Aman must make a tough decision that will change not just his life but the fate of an entire nation . . .
Phones stop working. Smartwatches die out. Arms start glowing with blue scars.
And training begins the very next day for Aman Chandra and ten other Souls of Samsara, who are kidnapped from modern-day India and transported to a hidden valley in the Himalayas. In this realm of magic, home to Hindu gods, immortal yogis and mythical beasts, the mission is clear for the Souls of Samsara: to learn the ancient art of yogic sorcery and prepare within one year for a treacherous journey not many can survive.
But why must they go on this journey? And how are the gods connected to it all?
Before they get any answers, the Souls of Samsara realize that there is a larger scheme at play. The king of the gods has passed a controversial order. And Aman must make a tough decision that will change not just his life but the fate of an entire nation . . .
298 pages, Paperback
Published September 26, 2022
408 people are currently reading
2335 people want to read
About the author
Saksham Garg
6 books187 followersSaksham Garg is an editor at Penguin Random House India. For seven years, he studied at Woodstock School, Mussoorie, from where he could see the snow-capped Seven Hills of this story. He currently spends his time between New Delhi and Jaipur, and, outside of work, is often found on the football field or practising the violin.
He loves to interact with his readers; connect with him on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn @sakshamgarg94. To get updates on upcoming book events and workshops on writing and editing, log on to www.sakshamvgarg.com.
He loves to interact with his readers; connect with him on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn @sakshamgarg94. To get updates on upcoming book events and workshops on writing and editing, log on to www.sakshamvgarg.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews
October 5, 2022
I tried. I genuinely tried reading this. The Harry Potter and Percy Jackson references aside, i really did try.
But then came the chapter where a new character was introduced and started arguing with another barely established character about something. After the whole chapter, all you are left with is a lot of questions and zero understanding of where the plot is headed. And a negative interest in knowing. It's more 'will the secret be worth reading through the rest' than 'i have to figure this out'.
Its YA. There is liberal use of factors from Hindu mythology. There is an intriguing mystery, more mysteries are hinted at, but no effort is put in to pull the reader into the story.
If every other paragraph reminds you of HP universe or Percy, have you really made a good book?
Nothing wrong with being inspired by a good book and wanting to write something similar. But if there is a short stuffy person coming to take a young boy from his single mother(who struggles to survive and refuses to spill the secret about his father), to a school he has never heard of and there is a tree that beats him up with its flowing roots and vines, and there are young students who were born in the Valley and nOt CoMe FrOm ThE OuTsIdE..... You know where I am going with this...
Ps. I will go back and try reading again. May be after reading something else.
But then came the chapter where a new character was introduced and started arguing with another barely established character about something. After the whole chapter, all you are left with is a lot of questions and zero understanding of where the plot is headed. And a negative interest in knowing. It's more 'will the secret be worth reading through the rest' than 'i have to figure this out'.
Its YA. There is liberal use of factors from Hindu mythology. There is an intriguing mystery, more mysteries are hinted at, but no effort is put in to pull the reader into the story.
If every other paragraph reminds you of HP universe or Percy, have you really made a good book?
Nothing wrong with being inspired by a good book and wanting to write something similar. But if there is a short stuffy person coming to take a young boy from his single mother(who struggles to survive and refuses to spill the secret about his father), to a school he has never heard of and there is a tree that beats him up with its flowing roots and vines, and there are young students who were born in the Valley and nOt CoMe FrOm ThE OuTsIdE..... You know where I am going with this...
Ps. I will go back and try reading again. May be after reading something else.
October 16, 2022
I am going to disagree with anyone who says Samsara is like India's Harry Potter or Percy Jackson. It does a great disservice to the efforts Garg has made to craft this universe.
It's a thoroughly well thought out book, and the reader can immediately tell that the author really knows what they're talking about, and aren't (incorrectly) appropriating mythical beings from other cultures, unlike the white person books Samsara is being compared to.
(cough. Nagini. cough)
Some of the scenes are written with such precision that it is easy to visualise them in their possible cinematic forms. I would not be surprised if a studio bags the movie rights, it would be a great decision on their part.
The only reason I am holding back a star is because of the potential I know this story has, and which I hope is fully realised in the next book. I would love nothing more for these characters to gain more depth to their personalities. These are smart young Indians of a generation more aware of the everyday politics than their predecessors. I want them to sit up and question everything they encounter. I want them to challenge every norm imposed on them. I want them to put up a fight against every person, every beast, every God who attempts to play them as pawns in a game they didn't consent to join in the first place. I want them to be characters I can root for in every page.
The next book couldn't come fast enough!
P.S. I have a bone to pick with the publishers;
1. Where's the glossary? How dare you think the book is not going to make waves beyond our borders? Make it easier for the international audience to really engage with the source material, please.
2. Where's the acknowledgement page? How dare you alienate the 1 percent of your readership weirdly nerd enough to live from one acknowledgement page to another?
It's a thoroughly well thought out book, and the reader can immediately tell that the author really knows what they're talking about, and aren't (incorrectly) appropriating mythical beings from other cultures, unlike the white person books Samsara is being compared to.
(cough. Nagini. cough)
Some of the scenes are written with such precision that it is easy to visualise them in their possible cinematic forms. I would not be surprised if a studio bags the movie rights, it would be a great decision on their part.
The only reason I am holding back a star is because of the potential I know this story has, and which I hope is fully realised in the next book. I would love nothing more for these characters to gain more depth to their personalities. These are smart young Indians of a generation more aware of the everyday politics than their predecessors. I want them to sit up and question everything they encounter. I want them to challenge every norm imposed on them. I want them to put up a fight against every person, every beast, every God who attempts to play them as pawns in a game they didn't consent to join in the first place. I want them to be characters I can root for in every page.
The next book couldn't come fast enough!
P.S. I have a bone to pick with the publishers;
1. Where's the glossary? How dare you think the book is not going to make waves beyond our borders? Make it easier for the international audience to really engage with the source material, please.
2. Where's the acknowledgement page? How dare you alienate the 1 percent of your readership weirdly nerd enough to live from one acknowledgement page to another?
September 20, 2024
Samsara is about to take you on a wild ride through the Valley of the Gods - or should I say, the Valley of Endless Character Introductions. Saksham Garg's debut novel tries to blend ancient Indian culture with modern mysticism, but ends up feeling like a Rig Veda-themed escape room that you can't quite figure out how to leave.
The first 60% of the book is basically a warm-up act, introducing you to more characters than you can shake a stick at. Seriously, by the halfway point, you'll need a spreadsheet just to keep track of who's who. But don't worry, the author helpfully makes half of them forgettable, so you won't feel too bad when you can't remember their names.
Just when you're about to give up and use the book as a doorstop, the last third decides to get philosophical on you. Suddenly, you're questioning the meaning of life, the universe, and everything - including why you're still reading this book. It's like the author watched "The Matrix" and "Inception" back-to-back while binge-reading ancient Indian texts, and this is the result.
To be fair, the book does have its moments. The last 70 pages are apparently a real tear-jerker - though whether that's from emotion or relief that it's almost over is up for debate. And hey, if you're looking for a book that'll make you feel like you're stuck in an endless cycle of rebirth, well, mission accomplished!
In the end, "Samsara" is like that friend who starts telling you about their dream and doesn't stop for three hours. It's confusing, occasionally interesting, and by the time it's over, you're not quite sure what happened, but you feel like you've been through something. If you're into mystical adventures that leave you with more questions than answers, this might be your jam. Otherwise, you might want to stick to less mind-bending reads - like the back of a cereal box.
#review #samsara
December 11, 2022
The book was all over the place. A solid foundation backed by a pretty great magical system and a framework backed by myths was let down by the fidgety nature of the plot. The author was in a hurry to get somewhere and he left the plot halfway through his journey.
But.....but....I really want to see where this series goes. It does have its moments. It's a decent piece of work with all the right ingredients, but just needed more brewing time.
But.....but....I really want to see where this series goes. It does have its moments. It's a decent piece of work with all the right ingredients, but just needed more brewing time.
July 24, 2023
finally...i managed to finish the book. (Pause)…( bit long pause) well, i am actually looking for words to describe my experience( After reading this book i felt robbed) . First Of all i would categories this book as a young adult fiction.
ok , will cut the chase and here we go...i love fiction but this book made me frustrated ( when will it end). when i had begun the book was hoping for some action some plot and twist, something to keep me hooked for the next sequence , the tsunami of characters that were introduced in subsequent chapters was too much, ( don't wish to spoil for others so will keep it minimal). the plot at the end( why?), twist came rapid after long run that to at the end( it was abrupt), perhaps keeping something for the next sequence but wasn't happy the way it ended.
Two stars: one for a story that was quite original per say(trying to be polite), 2nd for the beautiful cover( that was really good ).
Everything felt rushed , Aman's character lacked development and maturity( poor soul till the end), Myth was not handled well( wanna say more but won't), some characters couldn't do justice(didn't fit..Appeasing perhaps..to...
oh! i need to stop.
ok , will cut the chase and here we go...i love fiction but this book made me frustrated ( when will it end). when i had begun the book was hoping for some action some plot and twist, something to keep me hooked for the next sequence , the tsunami of characters that were introduced in subsequent chapters was too much, ( don't wish to spoil for others so will keep it minimal). the plot at the end( why?), twist came rapid after long run that to at the end( it was abrupt), perhaps keeping something for the next sequence but wasn't happy the way it ended.
Two stars: one for a story that was quite original per say(trying to be polite), 2nd for the beautiful cover( that was really good ).
Everything felt rushed , Aman's character lacked development and maturity( poor soul till the end), Myth was not handled well( wanna say more but won't), some characters couldn't do justice(didn't fit..Appeasing perhaps..to...
oh! i need to stop.
January 1, 2023
This book held so much promise but the lack of character building and new characters being introduced in every chapter is hard to digest. It’s also easy to lose interest due to the lack of context in the initial pages, hoping the second part redeems the series.
September 24, 2024
Aman having his life turned upside down by entering vanyasa.l, His father who has been convicted a betrayer to the army and has been living alone with his mother. The valley of gods and a the divine kalpvriksha. will AMAN as the eleventh unsolicited soul be able to prove himself and save the people he cherishs.
The storyline with intricate world description takes to the fantasy and enliven the myths .
I loved it and savoured reading it slowly.
And at last thank you for this book
The storyline with intricate world description takes to the fantasy and enliven the myths .
I loved it and savoured reading it slowly.
And at last thank you for this book
August 13, 2022
Saksham Garg's writing is absolute master class - one chapter in and you can't help but feel the protagonist's pain for him. Through the sheer vividness of his storytelling, the author makes you want to live the story, rather than just read it. Loved it!
September 20, 2023
I started this book after reading a review that described this book as India’s answer to Harry Potter. However, it turned out to be a huge disappointment; Samsara is chaotic and colourless. The plot of the story is very loosely constructed and the world that it has built extremely unclear. This book subscribes to a philosophy that is quite relevant in the times of religious fundamentalism but rather than the philosophy being a part of the narrative, it becomes the entire reason for writing this book. The story arcs are unfulfilling which introductions to the various important side characters added on as an afterthought and not woven into the story. I would not recommend it to anybody, it isn’t even close to the league of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson.
March 31, 2023
First Indian fantasy I've ever read and it didn't disappoint. Tbh it did confuse me a little and did feel unsatisfying at some points. The story centers around Aman who is the MC, an ordinary guy but infamous for being son of a traitor. One day he taken into this whole new world where he is told he is the 11th soul to join Vanyasa. He goes through Advaita but isn't found worthy enough to be the “Eka” chosen one.
November 14, 2022
Aman Chandra, a regular boy comes across a truth that changes his life forever. Abandoned by his own mother, he is transported to a hidden valley in the Himalayas. There he comes across weird rituals and meet the other souls of Samsara.
Aman is in the valley only to discover the truth about his missing father but destiny holds a bigger mission for him. Before he along with the other souls, gets any answers, the Gods passed a controversial order and Aman has to make a tough decision which will change the fate of the entire nation.
Written beautifully, the author takes us to the magical world of Gods. A blend of fantasy and mythology, the story will keep you hooked till the end. I loved the detailing of every scene without getting bored.
I loved the cover which has a gold foil embossing which makes the title glow on the front and the spine under the right lighting conditions.
Samsara is at the intersection of YA and adult fantasy fiction - containing themes that may appeal to both younger and older audiences.
Aman is in the valley only to discover the truth about his missing father but destiny holds a bigger mission for him. Before he along with the other souls, gets any answers, the Gods passed a controversial order and Aman has to make a tough decision which will change the fate of the entire nation.
Written beautifully, the author takes us to the magical world of Gods. A blend of fantasy and mythology, the story will keep you hooked till the end. I loved the detailing of every scene without getting bored.
I loved the cover which has a gold foil embossing which makes the title glow on the front and the spine under the right lighting conditions.
Samsara is at the intersection of YA and adult fantasy fiction - containing themes that may appeal to both younger and older audiences.
February 23, 2024
I'm glad to have met the author of this book Saksham Garg at the Annual Book Fair in my city and got myself a signed copy from him. 😊
The cherry on top was that the book was sooooo good!!! The ending was totally unexpected. I can't wait for part two! ❤️
The cherry on top was that the book was sooooo good!!! The ending was totally unexpected. I can't wait for part two! ❤️
April 26, 2023
It is sad how some book couldn't live up to the hype. This was so hyped and reviews from authors like Anand Neelakandan. India's answer to Harry Potter. Honestly, I struggled with this one I had to stop at page 2oo/298 I couldn't carry forward. It felt like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson mixture.
The writing was decent. The story and plot was messy and everywhere. Title was "Enter the Valley of the Gods", however we got to only witness one God Lord Indra which I feel was mistaken for Lord Vishnu given the description. Speaking of Gods I expected more than one God, example Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga or Ganesha or on of Lord Vishnu avatar.
Vanyasa is really beautiful world. If it is true I would really want to visit it. I feel the author created this world but gave it little life. There was not much engagement. There was lack of magic and power.
The author's effort in creating this book, hats off. The cover is really pretty. The design and artwork sets the mode of reading. I had a high expectation while reading this book. I expected Gods, strong magic and power and strong characters.
Suggestion to the author:
1) Listing of character - I got mixed up with some of the character.
2) Glossary - For reader who are not familiar with some of the terms being used.
3) Vanyasa map - The map is two pages. Could have put it as one page. Easier to refer.
The writing was decent. The story and plot was messy and everywhere. Title was "Enter the Valley of the Gods", however we got to only witness one God Lord Indra which I feel was mistaken for Lord Vishnu given the description. Speaking of Gods I expected more than one God, example Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga or Ganesha or on of Lord Vishnu avatar.
Vanyasa is really beautiful world. If it is true I would really want to visit it. I feel the author created this world but gave it little life. There was not much engagement. There was lack of magic and power.
The author's effort in creating this book, hats off. The cover is really pretty. The design and artwork sets the mode of reading. I had a high expectation while reading this book. I expected Gods, strong magic and power and strong characters.
Suggestion to the author:
1) Listing of character - I got mixed up with some of the character.
2) Glossary - For reader who are not familiar with some of the terms being used.
3) Vanyasa map - The map is two pages. Could have put it as one page. Easier to refer.
March 5, 2023
Garbage 🗑️. I am not a die hard fan of Harry Potter series, but i can tell that this book is nothing in compare to J K Rowling's books. If i give 10/10 to J K Rowling than saksam grag is "-100". Usage of unnecessary hindi words (for the non Indian origin reader it will be very hard to get some words without Googling it). Writing is very bad. I don't feel connected to any characters at all. Don't wast your time on this book its not worth it. It is gaining sell by using name "harry potter".
July 5, 2024
DNFed at 50%. Could not keep up with multiple POVs. Loads of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson references.
Randomly sprinkled Hindu mythology references. Make a stereotypical villain out of a 'brahmin' girl.
Tortured underdog hero..
Randomly sprinkled Hindu mythology references. Make a stereotypical villain out of a 'brahmin' girl.
Tortured underdog hero..
October 7, 2022
This book felt very similar to the Percy Jackson Series. It followed the same tropes and even some of the main characters were similar. I liked it and am looking forward to reading the second part.
October 30, 2022
Really really good.
October 27, 2022
Samsara is another magnificent representation of how Hindu mythology can be a great element in an excellent fantasy book. Through his marvellous writing, Saksham takes us to the world of Samsara, which is a hidden valley in the Himalayas, a realm of magic and home to immortal yogis, mythical beasts, and Hindu gods. Aman Chandra, a young boy seeking answers from his misty past, is suddenly kidnapped one day and transported here along with the ten other Souls of Samsara, off to learn the art of yogic sorcery and prepare for a perilous journey, with much greater things at play behind all this.
The whole plot is intensely engaging. The characters are also very well built. It has the One Trope which I really enjoyed. The way it was done, the entire focus was not drained on that "one" individual, made it very well balanced. Measured importance was given to all the characters. I really liked the way all the souls who were scattered throughout the plot came together by the end of the book.
The world-building is just amazing. The way all the facts build up the verity is stupendous. A few parts were written with such great precision that one can easily visualize them. I loved the concept of Atmayog being the ultimate magical skill in this world. And also the process of choosing the Eka by Adwaita. Very creative!! The book is heavily laden with astounding plot twists. By the time one reaches Part III, the very spine of the story with which it started gets totally changed.
One thing that annoys me a bit is people comparing it with the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson series. First of all, they are a properly finished series. We cannot compare the whole series with this single book that has just arrived. I feel it is simply dishonoring the efforts that the writer has put into crafting this world.
Book 1 in the Samsara series carries a great potential in its plot and has already forged high hopes in the readers for the next book. One thing that I am definitely looking forward to in the second book is the depth of personality in the characters. I want them to be more dynamic in questioning everything happening to them in this world, to challenge everything and everyone they encounter, even the Gods and also take unexpected initiatives, something like Aman did, which was kind of jaw-dropping. I expect more of this from other characters as well. I want to see them deeply involved as well.
Eagerly waiting for the next book!!!
The whole plot is intensely engaging. The characters are also very well built. It has the One Trope which I really enjoyed. The way it was done, the entire focus was not drained on that "one" individual, made it very well balanced. Measured importance was given to all the characters. I really liked the way all the souls who were scattered throughout the plot came together by the end of the book.
The world-building is just amazing. The way all the facts build up the verity is stupendous. A few parts were written with such great precision that one can easily visualize them. I loved the concept of Atmayog being the ultimate magical skill in this world. And also the process of choosing the Eka by Adwaita. Very creative!! The book is heavily laden with astounding plot twists. By the time one reaches Part III, the very spine of the story with which it started gets totally changed.
One thing that annoys me a bit is people comparing it with the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson series. First of all, they are a properly finished series. We cannot compare the whole series with this single book that has just arrived. I feel it is simply dishonoring the efforts that the writer has put into crafting this world.
Book 1 in the Samsara series carries a great potential in its plot and has already forged high hopes in the readers for the next book. One thing that I am definitely looking forward to in the second book is the depth of personality in the characters. I want them to be more dynamic in questioning everything happening to them in this world, to challenge everything and everyone they encounter, even the Gods and also take unexpected initiatives, something like Aman did, which was kind of jaw-dropping. I expect more of this from other characters as well. I want to see them deeply involved as well.
Eagerly waiting for the next book!!!
August 20, 2024
Oh God! Finally the torture is over.
I wanna shed tears of happiness after finishing this book. This was excruciating mind slowing read for me. After 200 pages, I just skimmed because reading the boringness of it was too much of an effort for me.
I wish I could rant about it, but we can rant about *something*, not nothingness of 300 pages.
I picked up this book with great expectations. But let alone fill my expectations, this book fails miserably to fulfill the expectations of synopsis itself. For a long time, this book meanders in the plotless boring way following undeveloped 10 characters at the same time
YES, 10, YOU HEARD ME RIGHT!
Each chapter brought a new random character to whom another random character was talking about some random thing. The world building was interesting and good(that's what the 1 star is for) but rest all Pacing, Plot and characters fall flat
The primary problem I have with this book is its characters. They are randomly assorted personality traits. Not much depth is given to any of them. I wish the book followed one character throughout and developed him/her as we go. But It meanders to strange places which heavily bores the reader.
I so wanted to like the book but not when book seems so devoid of any structure. Maybe if the author happened to stumble upon 3-Act structure, perhaps the pacing and plot problem of this book might have been solved. This is no way to say that the author might not possess the wisdom of different sturcture used in literature. But to say, he might have known them but terribly executed them
For painful 250 pages, this book promises nothing to the reader as where the book would lead us to. The constant nothingness about this book would eventually wear out the reader and make them unwilling to even finish the book. I would have been fine if i DNF'ed this book, because nothing very enlightening happens in the end.
A terribly disappointing book that could have been so much more but meanders alot that I can't even say that there was a good story somewhere within. Because to be honest, there wasn't.
I wanna shed tears of happiness after finishing this book. This was excruciating mind slowing read for me. After 200 pages, I just skimmed because reading the boringness of it was too much of an effort for me.
I wish I could rant about it, but we can rant about *something*, not nothingness of 300 pages.
I picked up this book with great expectations. But let alone fill my expectations, this book fails miserably to fulfill the expectations of synopsis itself. For a long time, this book meanders in the plotless boring way following undeveloped 10 characters at the same time
YES, 10, YOU HEARD ME RIGHT!
Each chapter brought a new random character to whom another random character was talking about some random thing. The world building was interesting and good(that's what the 1 star is for) but rest all Pacing, Plot and characters fall flat
The primary problem I have with this book is its characters. They are randomly assorted personality traits. Not much depth is given to any of them. I wish the book followed one character throughout and developed him/her as we go. But It meanders to strange places which heavily bores the reader.
I so wanted to like the book but not when book seems so devoid of any structure. Maybe if the author happened to stumble upon 3-Act structure, perhaps the pacing and plot problem of this book might have been solved. This is no way to say that the author might not possess the wisdom of different sturcture used in literature. But to say, he might have known them but terribly executed them
For painful 250 pages, this book promises nothing to the reader as where the book would lead us to. The constant nothingness about this book would eventually wear out the reader and make them unwilling to even finish the book. I would have been fine if i DNF'ed this book, because nothing very enlightening happens in the end.
A terribly disappointing book that could have been so much more but meanders alot that I can't even say that there was a good story somewhere within. Because to be honest, there wasn't.
August 21, 2024
The concept is good but not well executed.
What’s good about the book:
1. The conversation between the said god and the said soul (iykyk) challenges our understanding of religion, about god, about karma, dharma and shares a very different perspective. I loved that part.
2. Sheds light on bullying and loneliness, how it can affect someone’s personality and outlook of life.
What I didn’t like:
1. This is elaborating on the point 1. above, the author should have elaborated on the conversation between the said god and the said soul about religion, God’s understanding of it’s effect on people and the God’s perception of it all. That conversation is so beautiful. It should have honestly occupied pages and could have been the central theme of this book. It’s fresh, it’s different but the author lost it’s essence by making it a 1 page conversation only.
2. Description of people in Vanyasa/ Shambhala is not convincing especially if you have grown up thinking the place where God probably resides is beautiful with values. It’s absolutely okay to challenge this perception but author fails to do it effectively.
3. If the author was trying to emphasise the effect of simple living and meditation even on an ordinary human being, it did not click. This understanding as a reader gives you no depth. It’s stated as a fact.
4. The author doesn’t let you experience the journey of the characters. As a reader, you don’t feel what the character feels.
3. The language isn’t great. The words have no depth or feels to it.
4. For half the book I struggled to turn pages.
5. It got a little engaging by the end only to end in a cliffhanger which brings a slight curiosity but I am not sure l will pursue it.
I feel this is one of those books if adapted well could be a really visually engaging movie but as a reader it didn’t help me get lost in it’s world.
What’s good about the book:
1. The conversation between the said god and the said soul (iykyk) challenges our understanding of religion, about god, about karma, dharma and shares a very different perspective. I loved that part.
2. Sheds light on bullying and loneliness, how it can affect someone’s personality and outlook of life.
What I didn’t like:
1. This is elaborating on the point 1. above, the author should have elaborated on the conversation between the said god and the said soul about religion, God’s understanding of it’s effect on people and the God’s perception of it all. That conversation is so beautiful. It should have honestly occupied pages and could have been the central theme of this book. It’s fresh, it’s different but the author lost it’s essence by making it a 1 page conversation only.
2. Description of people in Vanyasa/ Shambhala is not convincing especially if you have grown up thinking the place where God probably resides is beautiful with values. It’s absolutely okay to challenge this perception but author fails to do it effectively.
3. If the author was trying to emphasise the effect of simple living and meditation even on an ordinary human being, it did not click. This understanding as a reader gives you no depth. It’s stated as a fact.
4. The author doesn’t let you experience the journey of the characters. As a reader, you don’t feel what the character feels.
3. The language isn’t great. The words have no depth or feels to it.
4. For half the book I struggled to turn pages.
5. It got a little engaging by the end only to end in a cliffhanger which brings a slight curiosity but I am not sure l will pursue it.
I feel this is one of those books if adapted well could be a really visually engaging movie but as a reader it didn’t help me get lost in it’s world.
May 2, 2023
My first Indian Fantasy read didnt disappoint me overall. But the hype with which this book is getting sold in Indian market in the name of Indian Harry Potter or Percy Jackson is not at all true. Its no where close to such masterpieces.
I feel that the story had much more potential than it was framed in the whole book. The pace is so different in different parts of book with so many loose ends, one might lose interest in middle. Any attempt to establish an emotional connect with the characters was also missing.
Still, a good attempt at recreating the fantasy vibe of Hindu mythology with a modern twist, more suitable for YA genre lovers. I really liked the Shangri-La part which hasnt been explored much yet. New young age readers will definitely find it interesting. I will actually the follow this series because i am interested to know the end of this story.
I feel that the story had much more potential than it was framed in the whole book. The pace is so different in different parts of book with so many loose ends, one might lose interest in middle. Any attempt to establish an emotional connect with the characters was also missing.
Still, a good attempt at recreating the fantasy vibe of Hindu mythology with a modern twist, more suitable for YA genre lovers. I really liked the Shangri-La part which hasnt been explored much yet. New young age readers will definitely find it interesting. I will actually the follow this series because i am interested to know the end of this story.
April 15, 2024
This book felt like harry potter series consummated its marriage with Percy Jackson series but due to family pressure.
No doubt the story line has a potential of being Karan johar’s next movie but it was all over place and somewhere incomplete in itself.
Dear author I know it’s your debut novel but next time please provide some insights on glossary as well.
No doubt the story line has a potential of being Karan johar’s next movie but it was all over place and somewhere incomplete in itself.
Dear author I know it’s your debut novel but next time please provide some insights on glossary as well.
December 26, 2022
2.5 rounded up to 3 stars. This book had so much potential, but I felt like it fell flat. The story was paced differently at parts which made it "bumpy" to read. The lack of character development caused a detachment of sorts to the story itself.
June 24, 2024
"True knowledge outlasts all time and hatred"
"We are animals. Trivial in the eternity of time"
The way the author has unfolded the (Aman) protagonist's character from having a poor self esteem to one who is determinant to act rationally is commendable. The author has tried to create a mythological fiction in the present age. While the idea to blend the Army with a spiritual journey seems off the track and impedes the whole plot. Nevertheless, the concept of Atmayog was engaging.
" All the pleasures of the world - psychological, physical, ephemeral were his and his alone."
However, the later half of the novel seems more engaging but the climax was wrapped quickly and was disappointing. Maybe the sequels would clarify things better. Despite all this the author has addressed important issues such as communication barriers in reality as seen in the case of the confrontation between Aarti and Idhika which shows how nepotism and misunderstanding or lack of empathy can trigger severe consequences. Cruelty of Dictatorship (Sanak), Bullying at school(Aman), desire to be loved( Prithvi) pain and despair due to societal outcast (Aman's Mom) etc. are some issues discussed in brief. Those interested in mythological fiction can give it a try.
"We are animals. Trivial in the eternity of time"
The way the author has unfolded the (Aman) protagonist's character from having a poor self esteem to one who is determinant to act rationally is commendable. The author has tried to create a mythological fiction in the present age. While the idea to blend the Army with a spiritual journey seems off the track and impedes the whole plot. Nevertheless, the concept of Atmayog was engaging.
" All the pleasures of the world - psychological, physical, ephemeral were his and his alone."
However, the later half of the novel seems more engaging but the climax was wrapped quickly and was disappointing. Maybe the sequels would clarify things better. Despite all this the author has addressed important issues such as communication barriers in reality as seen in the case of the confrontation between Aarti and Idhika which shows how nepotism and misunderstanding or lack of empathy can trigger severe consequences. Cruelty of Dictatorship (Sanak), Bullying at school(Aman), desire to be loved( Prithvi) pain and despair due to societal outcast (Aman's Mom) etc. are some issues discussed in brief. Those interested in mythological fiction can give it a try.
December 30, 2022
Amazing book!! Waiting for the next part!!
October 23, 2022
Imagine a secret valley in the Himalayas where every decade 10 souls from the plains are secretly recruited and given the task of performing a maha yatra in search of a magical syrup that is required to keep a magical tree alive. However, this journey is not easy and not everything that meets the eye is true. Seeking inspiration from several elements of ancient Hindu mythology, #Samsara by @sakshamgarg94 is a mixed work of fantasy and YA.
This is a fast-paced book with an upcoming second part, which means the story does not end with this book. Using a third-person narration the author has surely demonstrated his command of the language and his knowledge of basic Hindu mythology. However, a need for more work is evident from the plot and story structuring perspective. Several times I was confused and wondered where a particular twist in the story is coming from or where it is going or if it was really necessary. A few characters seemed unnecessary and under-utilized. The elements of suspense seemed ok. The fight scenes have been narrated brilliantly. The concept of Atma Yoga is interesting and has been used as an important tool in the story where a person meditates to an extent where his soul leaves the body and occupies the body of another living being. The cover has been designed beautifully and thoughtfully.
Though the book did not impress me much, if asked whether I would read its sequel, my answer would be yes. I would be interested in knowing where the story culminates in the end.
This is a fast-paced book with an upcoming second part, which means the story does not end with this book. Using a third-person narration the author has surely demonstrated his command of the language and his knowledge of basic Hindu mythology. However, a need for more work is evident from the plot and story structuring perspective. Several times I was confused and wondered where a particular twist in the story is coming from or where it is going or if it was really necessary. A few characters seemed unnecessary and under-utilized. The elements of suspense seemed ok. The fight scenes have been narrated brilliantly. The concept of Atma Yoga is interesting and has been used as an important tool in the story where a person meditates to an extent where his soul leaves the body and occupies the body of another living being. The cover has been designed beautifully and thoughtfully.
Though the book did not impress me much, if asked whether I would read its sequel, my answer would be yes. I would be interested in knowing where the story culminates in the end.
November 13, 2022
Samsara:Enter the Valley of the Gods by Saksham Garg is an Indian fantasy book inspired my mythology. The story follows Aman Chandra,who is kidnapped and transported to the hidden world high up in the Himalayas. Ten other souls picked from
various parts of India have to undertake an arduous journey after a year of training on which the fate of mankind depends.
The world building is pretty good and there are a lot of descriptions which allow us to visualise the story come to life. There are several mysteries within the plot and we get answers to a few later on in the story. Other than the main characters there are several supporting characters too. The pace is medium and there is a twist at the end which warrants book 2.
I felt the ending was a bit abrupt and some parts were a bit predictable and the plot was loose at times. However,the author has done a pretty good job for a first book inspired by Indian fantasy. I hope the second book will be even better than the first book.
various parts of India have to undertake an arduous journey after a year of training on which the fate of mankind depends.
The world building is pretty good and there are a lot of descriptions which allow us to visualise the story come to life. There are several mysteries within the plot and we get answers to a few later on in the story. Other than the main characters there are several supporting characters too. The pace is medium and there is a twist at the end which warrants book 2.
I felt the ending was a bit abrupt and some parts were a bit predictable and the plot was loose at times. However,the author has done a pretty good job for a first book inspired by Indian fantasy. I hope the second book will be even better than the first book.
August 23, 2024
For the first time, I had a genuine case of a DNF. I tried so hard but couldn’t get past some glaringly terrible writing. The dialogue writing was, to put it mildly, juvenile. Even if you consider it to be a YA book, it doesn’t justify the underwhelming dialogue writing.
Also, which self respecting author would say a body part was ‘paining’?
I tried to get past that…and then something even worse came up. A character that was mentioned in passing earlier, suddenly appears. Without any pretext, with no description, as if they had been there all along. I actually went back a few pages to see if out of boredom I had missed something, but no. The character introduction was that bad.
And as soon as the character came in, the other one takes out some Mary Jane and starts smoking? Made me think if the author had done the same while writing the book.
Supremely underwhelming and disappointing. This could have been so much more and wasn’t anything at all.
Also, which self respecting author would say a body part was ‘paining’?
I tried to get past that…and then something even worse came up. A character that was mentioned in passing earlier, suddenly appears. Without any pretext, with no description, as if they had been there all along. I actually went back a few pages to see if out of boredom I had missed something, but no. The character introduction was that bad.
And as soon as the character came in, the other one takes out some Mary Jane and starts smoking? Made me think if the author had done the same while writing the book.
Supremely underwhelming and disappointing. This could have been so much more and wasn’t anything at all.
March 30, 2023
The book starts with our hero Aman, a typical Bollywood movie sad and alone guy, and how his life changes as he reaches samsara, a place godly and a school for 10 people chosen every decade for a task and their training for which they have been recruited. the 1st two parts don't invoke the curiosity out of you and you just read because there are 1 or 2 minor things happening here and there, which fails to conclude its agenda at the end. but after the 3rd part, you start grasping and understanding why. but it's an average book maybe the sequel if ever it comes possibly be more interesting since the plot has already been laid.
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