Book Review- Brutal

BRUTAL - UDAY SATPATHY

            A few months back, Rashmi Bansal came up with an innovative idea to discover and publish new writing talents - www.bloodygoodbook.com. First time authors get this opportunity to upload three chapters of their new book. Based on the reviews a decision is taken to publish the book on the website. Being one of the readers, I was eagerly looking forward for the book to be printed, as the three chapters were nothing less than amazing. As soon as I received a message that the e-book is available, I couldn’t stop myself from purchasing it through Amazon.

            This book starts with Nitin Tomar, a friendly teacher, massacring children in his own school. He is shot dead when he is taken for the trial. Finding some suspicion, in an otherwise open and shut case, are two reporters- Seema and Prakash. Both of them are working for rival channels but are very good friends. They start digging into the mystery of this case. Gradually each and every witness is found dead before they reach them. Inspite of the personal mishaps that both of them are facing, they get into the crux of the case and whether they emerge as winners is the story of Brutal.

            The author has written this book like a three book series (all in one). The entire book has been written with the intention of keeping you at the edge of your seat always. It is racy. Most of the times you are reading through hastily to know what is going to happen next. The reason why Brutal is an interesting read is the characters. All the characters are real and have an important role to play in the flow of the storyline. The characters of Seema and Prakash have been drafted immaculately. The way they begin the investigation at different points and how they meet midway and unravel the truth is the USP of this book. This has been drafted to perfection and leaves you stunned. But I have fallen in love with the boisterous nature of Mrinal. He keeps you entertained always.

            There are only a couple of hiccups that took me away from this nail biting narrative. The story on Khushwahas. I think that could have been edited a little. Too much family history was avoidable. Also, the part on Israel and Iran could have been written more interestingly. Those chapters were wearisome to read.

            Other than this, Brutal has been an exemplary experience. Uday, indeed, has done a commendable job. It does not feel as this book has been written by a first time author and that's a victory in itself for him.

            The book is available in the e-book form on Amazon, Google Playbooks and www.bloodygoodbook.com. The paperback is going to be out on 11^th September 2015. So do pick this book if you love this genre, Uday does not disappoint one bit.

STARS-4.5/5