Kala Ghoda: The game of power by Ashwini Malhotra

​"Kala Ghoda: The game of power" by Ashwini Malhotra - The story prospers! 

This book is published by Dhruva Publishers in 2021. This is Book 2 of 'Kala Ghoda' series.  

Now Iqbal is undisputed king of underworld. He has married Imran’s widow. Badi Ammi, his mentor’s wife, has accepted him. Zeenat’s sons hate him for killing their father. There are three attempts on his life. There are elections in Maharashtra. National party Vs Regional party politics requires Iqbal’s money. 

How does Iqbal survive attempts on his life? Will Zeenat’s sons accept him? Who will he support in elections? Can anyone challenge him?

Iqbal is the central character of this book. He knows that Sultan is trying to kill him from Dubai. He knows there is at least one traitor in his gang. He makes a complex plan. One that will reveal traitor and kill multiple birds in one stone. 

The story is interesting. It’s decently paced. Characters like Badru, Shiva, Commissioner are interesting. Zeenat’s character is special. You instantly like her. She only has a brief role in Book 1. However, the character that steals the show is Iqbal. 

Author has gone overboard with Iqbal’s power in politics. Politicians won’t allow anyone to become so powerful. If someone somehow becomes so powerful, politicians will ensure that he is taken care of. Nothing of the sort happens here. 

The book ends with revelation of the traitor and challenger to Iqbal. That person comes out of nowhere. Generally author should sprinkle clues that the readers will recall upon revelation. Here author leaves just one clue. One important question remains in the reader’s mind. When traitor had multiple opportunities to kill Iqbal, why doesn’t he?

The story happens in late 1980s. There’s a scene near Abu Dhabi’s Marina mall. Marina mall was constructed in 2000. Author’s research is found lacking. 

The book ends but not the story. How will Iqbal deal with new contender? Wait for Book 3. 

Why did I read this book? Book 1 was readable. 

What I didn't like? A little overboard in politics. 

What did I like? Happening story. 

Recommend reading.