1857: Sword of Mastaan by Vineet Bajpai

"1857: Sword of Mastaan" by Vineet Bajpai - Saga continues!

This book is published by TreeShade books in 2021 and has 280 pages. This is Book 2 of Mastaan series. 

Mastaan is conflicted. He can't forgive himself for probably changing the outcome of mutiny (in Book 1) and betraying his country for his British lover. Pujari from Nili Chatri temple understands him. Mirza Ghalib reveals the story of Tipu's treasure and his terrible curse. One eyed Dervish is set to destroy Delhi. Mutineers have captured Delhi and are in control. A trio of brutal British commanders (William Hodson, Jon Nicholson, Theo Metcalfe) is descending on Delhi to crush the mutineers and sack Delhi. There are many traitors in Delhi including the figurehead Bahadur Shah Zafar. 

Did Mastaan doom the fight? Will the rift between Mastaan and Chagan heal? Who will fight the curse of one eyed Dervish? What's written in Delhi's future? Can Delhi withstand British retribution?

Delhi is under siege, British army has received huge reinforcements and unlimited ammunition. Mutineers are starving, they are running out of ammunition, several guns are silenced. Fall of Delhi is inevitable, but their indomitable spirits are still unbroken. Fay and Pat are sneaked out without knowledge of Mastaan. Betrayal is in the air. 

This book enumerates events of 1857 revolution (which author calls mutiny). They are not seamlessly interwoven in the story. So first half of the book appears like a report in some parts and story in others, but then it becomes interesting in second half. 

It appears as if there is only one good fighter in whole of India, Mastaan. Although he is the hero, it appears like hyperbole. 

Why would the one eyed dervish want Delhi destroyed? His fight was with Tipu and was cursed by McGowen. Then why punish Delhi?

Pandit Gauri Shankar Shastri is going to play a vital role in this battle, but it's for the concluding book of this trilogy titled 'Delhi'. He descends from the noble bloodline of Pujari's of Harappa. Author very smartly capitalizes on the popularity and fan following of his Harappa trilogy. Amish too has done it in the past. However, beware, this trilogy is not in the league of Harappa trilogy. 

Book ends with the death of one important character and one villain. More to come in Book 3.

Why did I read this book? Author. 

What I didn't like? Narration in first half

What did I like? Leveraging of Harappa.

Read of you plan to read the series.