Book Review of “Shadows & Secrets” by Harini Srinivasan
Our Rating: 4.2/5
Genre : Mythical Mystery
Book Review of “Shadows & Secrets” by Harini Srinivasan
“Shadows and Secrets” by Harini Srinivasan intricately blends historical richness with thrilling mystery, set in the vibrant backdrop of ancient India’s Gupta Empire. The story follows Mahakavi Kalidasa, head of intelligence, as he investigates a series of gruesome murders in Pataliputra with the help of his resourceful spy, Shaunaka.
Harini Srinivasan expertly crafts a narrative that immerses readers in the complexities of the era, skillfully weaving together historical details with suspenseful intrigue. The characters, particularly Kalidasa and Shaunaka, are compellingly portrayed, adding depth to the story. Kalidasa emerges as a complex and enigmatic figure, balancing his role as a poet with his duties as a spymaster, while Shaunaka serves as the reader’s guide through the labyrinth of intrigue, navigating the murky waters of deception and religious fanaticism.
The novel’s vivid descriptions transport readers to ancient Pataliputra, where they are enveloped in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling city. Srinivasan’s meticulous research shines through, offering a captivating glimpse into the cultural richness and intellectual brilliance of the Gupta Empire.
The blend of genres, including historical fiction and mystery, adds to the book’s allure, making it a must-read for fans of both genres. The central mystery keeps readers engaged from start to finish, with twists and turns that keep them guessing until the final revelation. Additionally, the exploration of religious extremism adds depth to the narrative, providing thought-provoking insights into the era’s social and political dynamics.
Sharing Stories Verdict
Overall, “Shadows and Secrets” is a compelling read that offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Indian society, combining historical richness with thrilling intrigue to create a truly immersive reading experience.
Book Blurb: Shadows & Secrets
Circa 403-404 CE. The Gupta Empire has reached its zenith under its greatest ruler yet, Maharaja Chandragupta II Vikramaditya. But with glory comes mischief. Mahakavi Kalidasa, the great poet-dramatist and one of the Navaratnas of the kingdom, heads the state intelligence network to weed out threats, internal and external.
On the eve of the annual Buddhist procession, a spate of shocking murders casts a dark shadow on the glorious city of Pataliputra, with corpses of unidentified foreigners and the city’s social and administrative elite turning up one by one.
Who is behind these killings and why?
To crack the mystery, the Mahakavi enlists the help of Shaunaka, one of his unofficial spies. As the keenly observant but idealistic guptachara pursues his secret mission, the young man gets a taste of real-world affairs-deception, religious fanaticism and a 100-year-old secret.
Faced with more questions than answers, there is one thought on everyone’s mind-what is going on in Pataliputra?
About the Author Harini Srinivasan
Harini Srinivasan is the author of a historical detective fiction, The Curse of Anuganga, the romantic comedy, The Ex Factor, novellas: Ek Confusing Love Story, Death at Arcade Emporia, a children’s book, The Wizard Tales- Adventures of Bun-Bun and several short stories. A former civil servant, she is an editor & a content management professional by day, and an author by night and can be found multitasking most of the time.
As an editor of both fiction and non-fiction books, some of the prominent publications include Selected Speeches of the President: Pranab Mukherjee; The Republican Ethic: Selected Speeches of Shri Ram Nath Kovind; Indian Dance – Through a Critic’s Eye; Abode Under the Dome; Legends of Indian Silver Screen; and Selected Speeches of the Vice President: M. Venkaiah Naidu. She is based out of Gurgaon, India.