One ruse that I have often shared in interviews and my reviews is that we rarely see a novel factor in books by Indian authors.
Most books are just different flavors of the same limited subjects. While there is some degree of novelty in how they treat their scenes or characters of storyline, there is rarely a unique plot or subject that comes across.
I am glad to say Maya and the Sword of Gringak definitely falls in the category of "different"
Cover is apt to the theme of the book, in fact all major elements are in full display. Cover is such that would attract eyes when kept with other books.
This is Book 1 of what is a full blown fantasy world build by Meera, that looks like will be introduced to us, part by part.
Meera has chosen her protagonists, the names, the characters, situations pretty well. This is a big book, easily spanning over 370 pages, but because of the interesting way in which scenes are built, doesnt come across as tedious. In fact the world that Meera has built is so vibrant that even after 370+ pages, you are left wanting for more.
Maya is definitely the pick of the lot, it is her story and she completely makes herself your hero by the time this book ends and leaves you wanting to see her adventures more in coming books. My pick, however is Dhruv. It is often not very easy to write conflicted characters. Not only Meera clearly shows the conflicts, she keeps us wanting to root for him and he delivers.
The book has all essential flavors of a good entertaining story, there is romance, drama, betrayal, conflicts, love-hate, humor, all of which a fantasy novel, apart from the fantasy element itself.
On the flip side, I didnt find much of issues. There is a good amount of character growth of every central player, Maya having the most of it, from being a demure, shy girl to a hero and a leader. However, at times, I found her decisions and actions slightly predictable. Not a major issue, but maybe thats why I liked Dhruv more. Perhaps thats the curse of being the hero in the eternal conflict of good vs bad.
That said, this is one book I would definitely recommend to everyone. The book has potential to be liked by kids and adults alike. Perhaps, a good candidate for bedtime stories. All in all I would definitely give it a perfect 5! A lot of people would say this is great candidate for a webseries or an animated series. I would say, this has huge potential to be the backstory of a video game. Perhaps Meera should contact a few.
Read it for the novelty factor and the fabulous world of Maya. It is available on Amazon
https://www.amazon.in/MAYA-SWORD-GRINGAK-MEERA-PILLAI/dp/8195306594/
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