"Narasimha" by Kevin Missal - Not gripping!
This book is published by HarperCollins India in 2019 and has 320 pages. This is Book 1 of Mahaavtar trilogy.
Nara was the leader of Simha Tribe (half lion half men) that sided with Deva Tribe against Asura Tribe for control over Illavarti. He comes out of self imposed retirement to save a potent weapon from Andhaka, nephew of Hiranya. Meanwhile, Hiranya is searching for world's greatest weapon. Pralhad is functioning as temporary king when Vishnusena wrecks havoc.
Why did Narasimha retire? Why did he come back? Which is the greatest weapon? Who is the leader of Vishnusena? What happened to Pashupatastra?
Author has taken the story of Narasimha from mythology and created a story very different from known tale. He has created a new world with Simha tribe, kingdom of Illavarti, the armour etc. Some of these things are contrary to known story like Narad being guru of Asuras, Prahlad being a grown up man etc...
Characterization is decent. Virtuous Nara, deceiving Indra, confused Pralhad, scheming Andhaka, driven Hiranya, meek Narad, cruel Hiloka etc.. Author brings varied characteristics through these characters. Hiranya does not come out as a villain but as one who's situation makes him do things. Objective of characters of Anuhrad, Holika's daughter and her boyfriend remains nebulous.
The narration is mildly interesting. At times the story slows down and at times things happen too fast. The story does not make you sit on the edge of chair. Reader does not get restless to read remaining book. Dil doesn't mange more.
This is a trilogy and a good amount of story is covered in first book. Is there enough strength left in the story for two more books? Only time will tell.
Why did I read this book? Author.
What did I like? Attempt
What I didn't like? Execution
Not a must read.
