When the snow melts by Vinod Joseph

"When the snow melts" debut novel of Vinod Joseph. This book is published by Amaryllis in 2012 and has 202 pages.

Ritwik Kumar, a son Maharashtrian father and Punjabi mother is an Indian spy. He is ex RAW and is currently working with IAG (Intelligence assessment group), a multinational anti terrorism organization based in London. He developes a drinking and gambling problem. He becomes irregular in office, sinks further in his problems and steals money from his office funds. The situation is so desperate that he is forced to defect to pro Al Qaeda section of ISI (Inter service intelligence of Pakistan) in London.

This is a big catch for ISI, or is it? What secrets will he spill? Will he embrace the terrorist ideology? Will he convert? What is the big game? Is there an angle of love?

This is a thriller alright but it's not an action thriller. It's a psychological thriller. The story is full of plots and counterplots, twists and turns, ups and downs, loyalties and deception; all with little to no action.

Various elements of ISI have conflicting objectives. Even individual participants have varying motives. Some are driven by money, some by power, some by religion, some by ideology and some by love for country.

Vinod's narration is systematic and entertaining. Although it's about India, Pakistan and America in the context of war on terror, entire story takes place in England. World of ruthless supremacy comes to the fore.

I would have preferred a more entertaining end to the book. Epilogue was almost unnecessary. I think we can expect more good work from Vinod in future.

Although it's not a wow book, you don't get bored and enjoy reading. I read it in one day.