Book: Canvas of a Mind
Author: Purba Chakraborty
Paperback: 170 pages
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Rating:
I love psychological thrillers, and this novel has an added appeal of an Indian setting. Besides I had read Purba’s earlier books, THE HIDDEN LETTERS, and THE HEART LISTENS TO NO ONE. Hence, I had high expectations from CANVAS OF A MIND. I’m glad to say that this novel lives up to my expectations.
Review:
Canvas of a Mind tells the story of two sisters, Akashi, and Ipsha, who live in a remote hill station town. A mysterious stranger arrives in their lives in the form of a stalker, who sends love notes to Ipsha, and plays a melodious tune. Initially frightened, Ipsha is later bewitched by the haunting tunes, and begins eagerly waiting for the little notes. When Akashi finds out about it, she intervenes to protect her younger sister. She is bewildered when she realises Ipsha’s lies are far more dangerous than the stalking stranger. What is the truth behind the stranger’s visit? Why is Ipsha deceiving Akashi? Can Akashi save Ipsha, or will she lose her sister to the darkness?
The novel starts slowly with character building, and background. However, it still manages to hold the reader’s attention. As the story progresses, it takes you on a ride of emotional upheaval, and shocking turns. It kept me turning the pages, and I read the complete novel in a single sitting. But, I feel that final resolution was a bit rushed.
The author, Purba Chakraborty, has written a very believable 17-year-old, Ipsha. Her getting enchanted with the idea of fairy-tale romance, her love for her sister, her rebelous streak, and insecurities seem very like a real teenager than a caricature. I love the way, Purba has shown the gradual change of Ipsha’s feelings towards the stranger. Akashi’s concern for her sister, and her helplessness are also well depicted.
Though the idea isn’t new, the deft handling of the plot makes for an interesting read. The plot maintains the mystery, and the twists continue to shock you. The description of the beautiful Kalimpong is an added treat.
Book Description:
What lies within?Akashi lives with her younger sister, Ipsha in Kalimpong, a remote hill station. Their tranquil life turns upside down with the arrival of a stranger in the town, who stalks Ipsha desperately. He tries to lure her by sending love notes and playing a haunting tune on his harmonica, without revealing his identity and showing his face. As Ipsha gets bewitched by him, Akashi tries to protect her from the creepy stalker. She tries to solve the mystery of the stranger and gets shocked by certain revelations. Meanwhile, she realizes that her sister has been deceiving her at every turn of the road.Why is Ipsha deceiving Akashi? And, what does the stranger exactly want from the two sisters? Will Akashi be able to save her sister from the darkness she is walking into? Or will she be shattered, knowing certain things about her sister that she had no idea about?Taut with suspense, “Canvas of a Mind” will take you on a riveting ride. Are you eager to know what lies within?
Verdict:
Canvas of a mind leaves you with an emotional shock, that lingers long after you finish the story. If you like psychological thrillers, you should definitely read Canvas of a Mind.
Buy Canvas of a Mind at Amazon
*I received a review copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
P.S. This novel is a clean read.
