The Silk Route Spy: The True Story of an Indian Double Agent By Dr. Enakshi Dasgupta - Book Review

Name of the book: The Silk Route Spy: The True Story of an Indian Double Agent

Author of the book: Dr. Enakshi Dasgupta 

Genre of the book: Mythology and History

ABOUT THE BOOK

In the maze of history, there are stories that take root in your heart and refuse to let go. The Silk Route Spy is one such tale equal parts thrilling and heart-wrenching, it delves deep into the life of Nandlal Kapur, a man whose internal struggle mirrored the turbulence of a country fighting for it's freedom.

Set in the 1920s, a time when the flames of revolution engulfed colonial India, this book offers a refreshing and unique perspective on the freedom struggle. Nandlal Kapur, the protagonist, begins his journey as a spy for the British, induced by the promise of wealth and adventure. But as he traverses India, meeting revolutionaries and witnessing firsthand the atrocities committed against his people that's when the narrative shifts. He transforms from an unsure, restless young man into a conflicted double agent. The dilemma of whether to remain loyal to his employers or to risk it all for his country becomes the emotional backbone of the story.

However, what truly sets The Silk Route Spy apart is its poignant exploration of relationships and sacrifices. Nandlal’s journey is not one he undertakes alone. The book beautifully captures the influence of those closest to him—his parents, who instill in him the values of courage and loyalty; his wife, who quietly bears the burden of his choices while offering unconditional support, and his lover, whose fiery spirit inspires his transition from a reluctant spy to a determined patriot. These relationships are not just side plots but are intricately woven into the narrative, adding depth and emotion to Nandlal’s struggles.

One of the most touching aspects of the story is how Nandlal constantly grapples with his dual life. His moments of doubt are relatable and human, making him a protagonist you can’t help but root for. His heart aches with longing for a peaceful life with his family, yet he cannot ignore the pull of his conscience, which urges him to take a stand against injustice. It’s this internal conflict that keeps you turning the pages.

The love angle in the story adds a layer of sweetness to the otherwise intense narrative. The bond between Nandlal and his lover is a testament to the sacrifices one makes in the name of love and freedom. It’s a relationship filled with stolen moments, unspoken promises, and an unyielding belief in each other’s cause. Their love isn’t just romantic—it’s revolutionary, serving as a metaphor for the hope and resilience of a nation on the brink of change.

MY TAKE ON THE BOOK

At it's core, The Silk Route Spy is not just the story of a man torn between duty and desire. It’s a reminder of the quiet, often unacknowledged sacrifices made by countless individuals during India’s freedom struggle. It’s about the blurry lines between patriotism and betrayal, and the enduring power of love and family in times of turmoil.

For anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a deeply personal touch, this book is a must-read. Nandlal Kapur’s journey will leave you questioning what it truly means to be a patriot and whether the cost of freedom is ever too high. A masterpiece that lingers long after the last page, The Silk Route Spy is a tale that deserves to be read, remembered, and celebrated.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr Enakshi Sengupta is a prolific researcher and an academician. She comes with 25 years of experience working both in the corporate world and in the academic environment. She is a PhD holder from University of Nottingham and has completed her MBA with merit from the same university.

BOOK DETAILS

Availability: AMAZON

Publisher: HarperCollins India

Pages: 216

Format: Paperback / Kindle edition

Price: 194 INR / 102.49 INR

This Book is part of Blogchatter's #Book Review Program #TBR Challenge #BookChatter #2025

DAKINI By K. Hari Kumar - Book Review

Name of the Book: Dakini

Author of the Book: K. Hari Kumar

Genre of the Book: Horror

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

K. Hari Kumar is a bestselling Indian author, screenwriter and filmmaker. With an impressive track record of being one of India's top genre writers, his stories rooted in Indian folklore and mythology have captivated readers across the subcontinent.

K Hari Kumar's collection of horror short stories, India's Most Haunted - Tales of Terrifying Places, published by HarperCollins India is one of the highest selling horror story books in India. The Times Of India deemed it as a must-read horror book, and it was also listed in HarperCollins India’s hundred best books written by Indian authors.

In addition to his accomplishments in literature, K. Hari Kumar has made notable contributions to the world of cinema as a screenwriter and creative consultant. His novel The Other Side of Her received critical acclaim when adapted into the web series Bhram, featuring the talented Kalki Koechlin. As a filmmaker, he has directed two short films, a documentary, a music video and the cinematic trailer of his books. K. Hari is also an international award nominated photographer. His photographs have featured on covers of his books.

ABOUT THE BOOK

As a lover of horror and stories steeped in mythology, I was thrilled to pick up Dakini by K. Hari Kumar, a book that promises spine-chilling suspense and layers of deeper meaning. And let me tell you, this one delivered on every front. From the very first page, Dakini transports you to the eerie, fictional village of Birpoor, where the myth of Kalibann ki Dakinia, bloodthirsty forest entity, hangs like a dark cloud over the lives of its inhabitants. The setting is hauntingly vivid, and Hari’s descriptive prowess makes you feel like you are standing in the middle of Kallu’s shop, hearing the sizzle of frying samosas, or walking through the shadowy forests where danger feels unnervingly close. At the heart of this tale is Mamta, a Mumbai-based journalist investigating a series of unexplained deaths in the village. Mamta is not just a protagonist, she is a deeply human character with a riotous past that adds so much emotional weight to the story. As she navigates the villagers' growing paranoia and unravels the terrifying mystery of the dakini, her own internal battles make her journey all the more compelling. One of the standout aspects of Dakini is how it seamlessly combines supernatural horror with sharp social commentary. While the dakini looms large as a terrifying presence, the story also explores real-world horrors like superstitions, the oppression of women, and the stigma surrounding single mothers. Mamta’s journey highlights the challenges faced by women in deeply patriarchal societies, adding an unexpected depth to what might initially seem like a straightforward horror story. 

MY TAKE ON THE BOOK

What I found most impressive was Hari’s ability to build fear. It’s not about sudden jump scares or loud noises; instead, the terror seeps into you gradually. Line by line, scene by scene, you are drawn deeper into the mystery until the reveal hits you and when it does, it leaves a chill that lingers. The climax, in particular, deserves a mention. Without giving away spoilers, I will just say that  it’s rare for a book to surprise me, but Dakini did. The ending was satisfying, unexpected, and beautifully tied together the themes of the story. The supporting characters also deserve praise. Inspector Pande, with his heroic arc, and Kuhu, whose situation mirrors the opening exorcism scene, are written with care and authenticity. Each character serves a purpose, contributing to the plot while reflecting the book’s deeper themes. I also loved how the story drew from Indian mythology to create its chilling visuals. There were moments when I felt a sense of déjà vu, as if the imagery was pulled from a half-remembered tale from my own childhood. This familiarity made the supernatural elements even more unsettling. 

If there’s one thing Dakini proves, it’s that K. Hari Kumar is a master storyteller. His ability to weave a gripping plot, rich characters, and powerful social commentary into one seamless narrative is truly commendable. This isn’t just a horror story, it’s a reflection of our society, our fears, and the dark truths we often ignore in the name of tradition. 

My Final Thoughts 

Dakini isn’t just a book, it’s an experience. It’s the kind of story that grips you, terrifies you, and makes you think. Whether you’re a fan of horror, mythology, or stories with strong social messages, this book has something for you. I found myself turning the pages late into the night, unable to stop until I knew how it all ended. If you are looking for a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is terrifying, pick up Dakini. Trust me you won’t forget it anytime soon. 

Would you dare venture into the dark forests of Birpoor? I did and it was a journey I won’t soon forget. So what are you all waiting for? grab your copy and enjoy this unforgettable journey.

BOOK DETAILS

Availability: Amazon

Format: Paperback / Kindle Edition 

Price: INR 280 / INR 266

Pages : 386

Publisher : Harper Fiction India

This Book is part of Blogchatter's #Book Review Program #TBR Challenge #BookChatter #2025