happiness and food

“The pages turn themselves” and I must admit that a thriller is one where this is must. Though I have never read an Indian thriller before, Private India did not disappoint me.

Plot & Storyline: Set up in Mumbai, the novel is fast paced and all characters are introduced within first 100 pages of the book. Santosh Wagh, who heads Private India is investigating a series of murders in Mumbai and interestingly all the victims are women. His team has a forensic expert/medical guy Mubeen, a tech guy Hari and an ex policewoman Nisha. Jack Morgan, Santosh’s boss also joins the investigation after the initial 3 murders. The novel begins with the first murder which was a good expectation setting  about what to look out for. From the first one to the eight and an attempt at the ninth murder, a yellow scarf is the culprit’s signing off statement.

The story is weaved well and the way it all comes together in the end is the best part of the book. The references to Indian mythology is also explained to the readers well. Readers who have never even heard of Goddess Durga and her incarnations should be able to understand the logic. I also liked the detailing of various concepts – whether it was DNA digging or any other specific thing – there were well enough points to give a complete understanding.

What could have been better: Grammatical errors are not expected when there are two renowned authors in the picture. A better proof-reading would have certainly been more appreciated. I also felt that the end could have been more detailed minus the sub plot of IM. The terrorist angle was not required.

Tactical Details: The font is good-sized and legible and the front and back cover of the book well designed. The writing style is simple and the English used is a little on the colloquial side. Not a very favorite style of mine but good for a lot of readers. The novel ends at page 447 (end of chapter 116) and the remaining 23 pages could have been avoided. It’s an extra treat for those who can make sense of it.

Overall Verdict: With the mystery and the pace at the story progresses, I give the book a rating of 4/5. It’s a fun read over the weekend if you like the genre. The book was indeed a page turner.

Book Details:

Name:  Private India

Authors: Ashwin Sanghi & James Patterson

Genre: Thriller/Fiction

Publisher: Arrow Books

Publication Year: 2014

Number of pages: 470

Price: 350 INR

My rating: 4/5

A little story is must: When I applied on blogadda for a review, I was not even 1% sure that I would be selected. Most important reason being that I have never reviewed a book. This review is my first and I am going to remember this first opportunity! A signed personal copy of the book being delivered at my door step, the day I received a mail that it was shipped was quickest delivery ever. That is the reason that this review is being published within 5 days. Thank you team!

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