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The Khandavaprastha Conspiracy
SCIENCE. HISTORY. THE MAHABHARATA. ACTION. ADVENTURE. INTRIGUE.
3340 BCE: A deadly scourge ravages a village in China, forcing a handful of survivors to abandon their homes.
1800 CE: A wounded monkey, rescued from the Amazon Forest, miraculously grows back the missing part of a leg … and then rips itself apart.
PRESENT DAY: A devastating and terrifying disease is spreading fast across the globe, leaving scientists helpless and baffled. The human immune system cannot detect this pathogen … nor can any test thus far known to science.
Vijay and the Global Task Force, headed by Director Patterson, find trail of clues that leads them to a mystery buried deep in the Mahabharata and a chilling conspiracy with catastrophic consequences.
As the fate of the world hangs in the balance, they must race against time to solve a mystifying riddle and unravel the deadly enigma that threatens to annihilate the human race.
But is it too late to save humanity from extinction?
Christopher C. Doyle is back! His electrifying new thriller combines cutting-edge scientific research with history and a secret from the Mahabharata to create a page-turner that you will not want to put down.
3340 BCE: A deadly scourge ravages a village in China, forcing a handful of survivors to abandon their homes.
1800 CE: A wounded monkey, rescued from the Amazon Forest, miraculously grows back the missing part of a leg … and then rips itself apart.
PRESENT DAY: A devastating and terrifying disease is spreading fast across the globe, leaving scientists helpless and baffled. The human immune system cannot detect this pathogen … nor can any test thus far known to science.
Vijay and the Global Task Force, headed by Director Patterson, find trail of clues that leads them to a mystery buried deep in the Mahabharata and a chilling conspiracy with catastrophic consequences.
As the fate of the world hangs in the balance, they must race against time to solve a mystifying riddle and unravel the deadly enigma that threatens to annihilate the human race.
But is it too late to save humanity from extinction?
Christopher C. Doyle is back! His electrifying new thriller combines cutting-edge scientific research with history and a secret from the Mahabharata to create a page-turner that you will not want to put down.
400 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2022
11 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Christopher C. Doyle
15 books424 followersChristopher C. Doyle pursued a career in the corporate world, graduating from St. Stephens College, Delhi with a degree in Economics and studying business management at IIM Calcutta. He now helps companies to grow profitably and sustainably.
He is also a musician and lives his passion for music through his band called Mid Life Crisis which plays classic rock.
He is also a musician and lives his passion for music through his band called Mid Life Crisis which plays classic rock.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 8, 2023
Rare to find author like him who does such painstaking research in field of science, medicine, mythology and religious scriptures before coming out with a blockbuster. An amazing racy bone chilling thriller I had to finish it in one sitting. Though I had to read and reread the dossier in end at eight times to fully grasp the chilling reality!
December 16, 2022
The Third book in Mahabharata Quest, The Khandavaprastha Conspiracy is nothing short of a bullet fired from the gun, lethal, fast, and rips you apart. The author Christopher C Doyle has again done a stellar job in science, myth, and intrigue. The best part of the book is, it is thoroughly researched and the information imparted are mostly real. This book is a must-read for people who love to find mythology and science mixed together.
January 28, 2024
"Khandavaprastha Conspiracy" by Christopher Doyle is the third book in “The Mahabharata Quest” series that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through ancient India and China, packed with mystery, political intrigue, and a touch of the supernatural. Doyle, known for his historical fiction novels, once again captivates readers with his engaging storytelling and meticulous attention to detail. The plot is a concoction of ancient historical events with many places and locations relevant even today, letters written by various historians, travelers, and members of the East India Company, and Modern Science. The author has detailed a dossier at the end of the book stating the facts from the fiction, that will send a shiver down your spine.
The book opens in 3340 BCE in a village in China, where a mysterious disease has turned deadly, leaving a handful of survivors to abandon their villages and those infected to a safer heaven. It’s now 1800 BCE and amidst a mass mutilation of monkeys in the Amazon Forest, one wounded monkey miraculously grows back its limbs, but later begins to cannibalize itself. Present day, a COVID-like pandemic is spreading fast globally, with scientists having no clue of any known cure or antidote. The pathogen, called mirror pathogen is not detected by the human immune system, and therefore no natural antibodies can counter its effect.
The Global Task Force (GTF) headed by Director Patterson, Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer Vijay Singh, his boss Imran and friend Colin find a trail of clues that will ultimately lead them deep into the Mahabharata and the Khandavaprastha forest. There is also an order with ancient lineage who is keen to lay their hands on the clues, that will ultimately lead them to curate an antidote and save the world. The story also has a US scientist who had faked his death and defected to China to help find a cure for this mirror pathogen, as China has been spending millions of dollars on cutting-edge technology in synthetic biology. However, a leak from one of their laboratories has now resulted in a global catastrophe.
The clues are embedded in the Owen Manuscript and several letters written by Warren Hastings, which in turn refers to the ancient Indian Medical compendium, Sushruta Samhita compiled by none other than Sushruta, the father of medicine and surgery. However, this ancient manuscript had some missing pages towards the end, that seemed to have been deliberately hidden with only clues provided in the Owen Manuscript. Members of the GTF are in a race against time to decipher the clues and find the resting place of the remaining pages and the cure before humanity is wiped off the face of the earth. Along their path, closely watching the GTF is the order and their assassin Dee.
The plot is intricately woven, blending historical events with thrilling elements of mystery and suspense. Doyle introduces several plot twists and interweaves subplots seamlessly, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing of the story is well-maintained, ensuring a steady flow that keeps the narrative engaging and the pages turning. The author's extensive research is evident throughout the narrative, capturing the essence of the era and adding authenticity to the story. As the mystery begins to unfold, there are several pages of deep scientific explanations on synthetic biology, the behavior of micro-organisms, the building blocks – DNA & RNA, mirror organisms, and molecular and cellular level scientific explanations that some readers may find it very difficult to comprehend and assimilate.
In conclusion, "Khandavaprastha Conspiracy" is a gripping historical thriller that seamlessly blends history, mythology, and adventure. Christopher Doyle's attention to detail and captivating storytelling make this an enjoyable read for fans of the genre. Readers will find themselves engrossed in the mysteries of ancient India and eagerly turning the pages to unravel the secrets of Khandavaprastha.
The book opens in 3340 BCE in a village in China, where a mysterious disease has turned deadly, leaving a handful of survivors to abandon their villages and those infected to a safer heaven. It’s now 1800 BCE and amidst a mass mutilation of monkeys in the Amazon Forest, one wounded monkey miraculously grows back its limbs, but later begins to cannibalize itself. Present day, a COVID-like pandemic is spreading fast globally, with scientists having no clue of any known cure or antidote. The pathogen, called mirror pathogen is not detected by the human immune system, and therefore no natural antibodies can counter its effect.
The Global Task Force (GTF) headed by Director Patterson, Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer Vijay Singh, his boss Imran and friend Colin find a trail of clues that will ultimately lead them deep into the Mahabharata and the Khandavaprastha forest. There is also an order with ancient lineage who is keen to lay their hands on the clues, that will ultimately lead them to curate an antidote and save the world. The story also has a US scientist who had faked his death and defected to China to help find a cure for this mirror pathogen, as China has been spending millions of dollars on cutting-edge technology in synthetic biology. However, a leak from one of their laboratories has now resulted in a global catastrophe.
The clues are embedded in the Owen Manuscript and several letters written by Warren Hastings, which in turn refers to the ancient Indian Medical compendium, Sushruta Samhita compiled by none other than Sushruta, the father of medicine and surgery. However, this ancient manuscript had some missing pages towards the end, that seemed to have been deliberately hidden with only clues provided in the Owen Manuscript. Members of the GTF are in a race against time to decipher the clues and find the resting place of the remaining pages and the cure before humanity is wiped off the face of the earth. Along their path, closely watching the GTF is the order and their assassin Dee.
The plot is intricately woven, blending historical events with thrilling elements of mystery and suspense. Doyle introduces several plot twists and interweaves subplots seamlessly, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing of the story is well-maintained, ensuring a steady flow that keeps the narrative engaging and the pages turning. The author's extensive research is evident throughout the narrative, capturing the essence of the era and adding authenticity to the story. As the mystery begins to unfold, there are several pages of deep scientific explanations on synthetic biology, the behavior of micro-organisms, the building blocks – DNA & RNA, mirror organisms, and molecular and cellular level scientific explanations that some readers may find it very difficult to comprehend and assimilate.
In conclusion, "Khandavaprastha Conspiracy" is a gripping historical thriller that seamlessly blends history, mythology, and adventure. Christopher Doyle's attention to detail and captivating storytelling make this an enjoyable read for fans of the genre. Readers will find themselves engrossed in the mysteries of ancient India and eagerly turning the pages to unravel the secrets of Khandavaprastha.
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February 6, 2023Curse of Khandavaprastha.
The third book by Christopher Doyle in his Mahabharata quest series. The book of course is intriguing and holds the reader’s attention just the way book1 and book2(someone borrowed by book 2 and has not returned it, may the curse of Khandavaprastha be unleashed on them)
Book 1 dealt with the Indian trail. In the second book the trail went to the Celtic trail. Here we are on book 3.
The book does deal with the questionable Khandavaprastha episode, but there are lot of things that do not settle within the book.
One interesting aspect the writer brings out is Warren Hasting from the East India company. It made me see him an as individual more that some trader who became the queen’s representative, he became real.
The story essentially is inspired by the covid outbreak with China though he gives it an historic backdrop of 3340 BCE when a Chinese village was abandoned the reason and trigger remains unknown.
In 1800CE explorers see the mass mutilation of monkeys’ and a lone monkey survives, interestingly the monkey regrows his amputated limb but then he becomes violent and cannibalizes himself.
Vijay, Imran and Colin still remain the protagonists on the quest. There is a mysterious order of ancient lineage that is thwarting them. not to mention a senior Indologist and thinker who guides the protector team.
In one chapter the author out of blue brings up a double Chinese agent, who makes an interesting observation. “China is not interested in world domination. It is only interested in internal growth.”
Though the author does try to give a physiological explanation, this is one of the places which can be dicey, the intercellular sodium-potassium pump is more for pain management. Also the normal human electric gradient is -70mv. In the gut what dominates is not the electric gradient but the biochemical balance.
I could be wrong but 1814 thanks giving event at London? Isn’t thanks giving an American event?
Radha the missing person from book 1 turns us, she is now probably mutated due to the medication that she has been administered. For she has a skin that glows as if it has a life of its own.
Dee from the book 2 returns as vindictive as ever.
For all who following the Mahabharat quest series it makes sense to reread the book 1 and 2.
Over all an interesting read. The author is able to keep the tempo and curiosity.
Author: Christopher Doyle. Publisher: Westlandbooks.in t:weestlandbook i:westland_books. Fb: Westland books.
The third book by Christopher Doyle in his Mahabharata quest series. The book of course is intriguing and holds the reader’s attention just the way book1 and book2(someone borrowed by book 2 and has not returned it, may the curse of Khandavaprastha be unleashed on them)
Book 1 dealt with the Indian trail. In the second book the trail went to the Celtic trail. Here we are on book 3.
The book does deal with the questionable Khandavaprastha episode, but there are lot of things that do not settle within the book.
One interesting aspect the writer brings out is Warren Hasting from the East India company. It made me see him an as individual more that some trader who became the queen’s representative, he became real.
The story essentially is inspired by the covid outbreak with China though he gives it an historic backdrop of 3340 BCE when a Chinese village was abandoned the reason and trigger remains unknown.
In 1800CE explorers see the mass mutilation of monkeys’ and a lone monkey survives, interestingly the monkey regrows his amputated limb but then he becomes violent and cannibalizes himself.
Vijay, Imran and Colin still remain the protagonists on the quest. There is a mysterious order of ancient lineage that is thwarting them. not to mention a senior Indologist and thinker who guides the protector team.
In one chapter the author out of blue brings up a double Chinese agent, who makes an interesting observation. “China is not interested in world domination. It is only interested in internal growth.”
Though the author does try to give a physiological explanation, this is one of the places which can be dicey, the intercellular sodium-potassium pump is more for pain management. Also the normal human electric gradient is -70mv. In the gut what dominates is not the electric gradient but the biochemical balance.
I could be wrong but 1814 thanks giving event at London? Isn’t thanks giving an American event?
Radha the missing person from book 1 turns us, she is now probably mutated due to the medication that she has been administered. For she has a skin that glows as if it has a life of its own.
Dee from the book 2 returns as vindictive as ever.
For all who following the Mahabharat quest series it makes sense to reread the book 1 and 2.
Over all an interesting read. The author is able to keep the tempo and curiosity.
Author: Christopher Doyle. Publisher: Westlandbooks.in t:weestlandbook i:westland_books. Fb: Westland books.
July 5, 2024
"The Khandavaprastha Conspiracy," the third book in Christopher C. Doyle's Mahabharata Quest series, plunges readers into a riveting blend of ancient mythology and contemporary thriller. Doyle unveils a hidden truth about the burning of the Khandavaprastha forest, challenging traditional beliefs with a narrative that shocks and enthralls.
Set against a backdrop spanning ancient China to modern times, the story follows Vijay and the Global Task Force as they race against a mysterious global pandemic that defies scientific explanation. As they uncover clues buried within the Mahabharata, they unearth a chilling conspiracy threatening humanity's existence.
Doyle's narrative prowess shines as he intricately weaves together action, suspense, and myth, crafting a tale that keeps readers on edge. The characters, led by Vijay and Director Patterson, navigate a perilous journey filled with twists and revelations, each discovery deepening the mystery spanning millennia.
"The Khandavaprastha Conspiracy" isn't just a retelling of mythology but a daring exploration that challenges preconceptions and reveals the untold secrets of ancient texts. Doyle's meticulous research and gripping storytelling merge seamlessly, offering a profound exploration of history, science, and legend.
Prepare to be captivated and transformed by this spellbinding installment that redefines the boundaries of what we think we know about the Mahabharata and its relevance to our world today.
Set against a backdrop spanning ancient China to modern times, the story follows Vijay and the Global Task Force as they race against a mysterious global pandemic that defies scientific explanation. As they uncover clues buried within the Mahabharata, they unearth a chilling conspiracy threatening humanity's existence.
Doyle's narrative prowess shines as he intricately weaves together action, suspense, and myth, crafting a tale that keeps readers on edge. The characters, led by Vijay and Director Patterson, navigate a perilous journey filled with twists and revelations, each discovery deepening the mystery spanning millennia.
"The Khandavaprastha Conspiracy" isn't just a retelling of mythology but a daring exploration that challenges preconceptions and reveals the untold secrets of ancient texts. Doyle's meticulous research and gripping storytelling merge seamlessly, offering a profound exploration of history, science, and legend.
Prepare to be captivated and transformed by this spellbinding installment that redefines the boundaries of what we think we know about the Mahabharata and its relevance to our world today.
February 29, 2024
I love that the book took a very intriguing premise and tied it perfectly with the Mahabharata epic. A lot of it was convincing enough to sound plausible. Although I did feel the ties with the Mahabharata epic are less as compared to the previous books in the series.
As the author states in his end of the book notes, the timing of this book helps the readers understand things a lot better given the events of the past few years.
My main gripe would be that the book just feels like it has unfilled potential. Like the story progresses well until about three quarters of the book, after which it just peters out. Even though everything is explained, there's this feeling of something missing. I just wish the story had a bit more of a satisfying conclusion, especially the relations between the characters.
Still, looking forward to a new adventure with the characters!
As the author states in his end of the book notes, the timing of this book helps the readers understand things a lot better given the events of the past few years.
My main gripe would be that the book just feels like it has unfilled potential. Like the story progresses well until about three quarters of the book, after which it just peters out. Even though everything is explained, there's this feeling of something missing. I just wish the story had a bit more of a satisfying conclusion, especially the relations between the characters.
Still, looking forward to a new adventure with the characters!
July 14, 2023
A nice clean book, well paced and a good mix of science, historical and mythological fiction. Christopher C Doyle fourth and latest in the Mahabharata Series takes us all over the world with various historical and mythological dramatis personae along with the core cast we've come to know and love with some additions.
This time, the secret is closer to home with Tibet, China and of course India being major locations.
Some introductions are quite jarring, though with the 5 bonus chapters shared in the author's website making up for them.
Good read, all in all and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series (I'm sure it will continue despite originally being envisaged as a trilogy) than his other projects.
This time, the secret is closer to home with Tibet, China and of course India being major locations.
Some introductions are quite jarring, though with the 5 bonus chapters shared in the author's website making up for them.
Good read, all in all and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series (I'm sure it will continue despite originally being envisaged as a trilogy) than his other projects.
April 5, 2024
It is nice to see a writer improve overtime. I didn't like the first book at all, second I was skeptical, third I thought needs some improvement, and now fourth book I can finally say I like it.
This time the exposition was safely defused by placing it at the end of the book. The chracters kind off had more personality previous thread which were dropped were picked up.
The book was supposed to be the last at least as per the original plan but the ending now leaves it open for further installments. I would like to buy them once they come out.
This time the exposition was safely defused by placing it at the end of the book. The chracters kind off had more personality previous thread which were dropped were picked up.
The book was supposed to be the last at least as per the original plan but the ending now leaves it open for further installments. I would like to buy them once they come out.
June 25, 2025
The premise and plot line is quite good..the over explanations of character thoughts and sudden plot twists made it hard to read.
Still one of the best authors writing the historical fiction set in indian mythology.
Still one of the best authors writing the historical fiction set in indian mythology.
December 17, 2022
Christopher C. Doyle never disappoints. The mystery was chilling, the science so real and the plot gripping. A perfect blend for a perfect weekend.
June 22, 2025
This book was okayish as compared to earlier books in the series. Average read.
December 2, 2023
A good excellently researched fiction.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews