Review of ‘Shadow of the past’ by Mayank Manohar.

Sometimes we indeed are being hunted down by our own past, which costs us our today. It takes guts to actually face today even while carrying the baggage from the past. Pricked by memories, heartbroken past, and many more regrets which we carry upon our shoulders and also in our heads. Yet we are prompted to move forward in our life taking at least smaller steps. And one such book where I found in this instance is ‘Shadow of the past’ by Mayank Manohar.  

Read further to dive into the detailed review of the book!

One-line review: 

"A riveting plot amongst the dwindling relationships, unearthing- emotions, doubts, inhibitions, inferiorities and utmost of all LOVE"

Extended review: 

Plot synopsis (spoiler-free ):

The book takes off with Rehan and Lavanya, two star crossed lovers, crippled by their own past and insecurities and how their life changes when they stop running away and start embracing it. Lavanya and Rehan find each other on the same boat- a boat that would eventually sink like the humongous, Titanic. 

 

Review:

The title itself caught my attention, and I was engrossed with the narrative. The narrative is basically in 3rd person. A simple yet smooth writing style is what Mayank possesses when he pens down this story. The story keeps the reader engaged despite considering the fact there are only a mere number of characters involved in the book. The story proceeds with twists now and then and attracts you to read further! I loved how the story kept shifting amongst the time frames mingled with the constant mental and emotional turmoil faced by the characters. Almost all the characters could be felt like the ones residing in our neighbourhood sharing a part of their lives with us. Considering that I could guess how the story would end, I still could not resist weeping a couple of times while reading this book. There were instances where I felt an exaggerated description of Rehan’s side of the story but, once I got into the ending of the book,  I guess, giving such vivid descriptions was much necessary. 

The character development was flawless, and you can imagine both the mental and physical features of the character being introduced into the book. 

The most stunning aspect of this book is that it has all the aspects of a proper heart-wrenching plotline. Typically saying this could be felt like a Bollywood movie with a minimal budget yet many emotions to carry. You would find not many takeaway points, also considering the fact that the book is too short and could be almost finished in one sitting. The plot felt a little off track sometimes, as the storyline from Arpita’s side was largely omitted. Rehan is one character we couldn’t resist ourselves from sympathizing. Yet I was quite happy with the ending. The plot is typically cliche, but the writing style was quite well furnished!

Appreciable aspects of the book:

1. Flawless portrayal of emotions.

2. Good character development.

Repelling aspects of the book:

1. Ending could have been more explanatory.

2. Cliche plotline.

I generally don't gauge books, but.

Who doesn't like scores??

Well, I would give this book 2.5 out of 5 points.

Reviewed by:

Achyut Murari,2nd yr. MBBS ,

Osmania Medical College.

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