Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Book Review: The Shrine of Death - 4.5*s

Friendship.

Love.

Prejudice.

Greed.

The four pillars on which the Shrine of Death has been based upon. A thriller in every sense, that unravels like the warmth of the sun in winter. Steady, gradual and with an enjoyable warmth the longer it stays.
Divya Kumar, the author has paced the story well with intrigue, suspense and determination all coming to the fore.

The Shrine of  Death highlights many aspects of modern day society that will connect with its readers. While some are definitely positive in their aspects which include the determination of Prabha and Jai in finding answers about Sneha and reaching out to her to help her despite not having been in touch in the recent past or in Jai's case a reason that you will understand only if you read the book.

I have always wondered what it would be like to feel what someone else feels, to experience their emotions, to attain true empathy. Because while people try to express themselves through words which may not always provide the right picture, their emotions can never lie.
Through this book I have discovered what it would be like to have such an ability. Could it be a gift or a curse. Can ones emotions over ride your own? For a loved one, yes.
But what about a stranger. What about an acquaintance? Would you be able to ignore a cry for help, especially if that was a cry of emotions that one felt but was too scared to verbalize.

The Shrine of Death also showcases the negative prejudices that are ingrained in our society. Where people are quick to judge without knowing or understanding the complete picture.
Where friendships are broken, relationships strained and mis-trust brewing.

Prabha Sinha & Jai Vadehra are determined to solve the mysteries at hand and doggedly pursue every aspect of the situation. What is good to see is that Divya Kumar, the author has stayed away from glorifying the efforts of the two. While they unravel parts of the  mystery, they don't have answers to every question which brings in the rest of the characters to the fore front like DSP Ratnaraj, or their journalist friend Riaz. The story does not stray from its purpose and intent which showcases a mature write behind the story.

The Shrine of Death is definitely a good read and should be on everyone' s list.