Book: Simha's Roar
Author: Arun Krishnan
Publisher: Harper Collins
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 5/5
Book review:
"Simha's Roar" is the third and the last part of the Battle of Vathapi's trilogy. After reading the two parts, Nandi's Charge and Varahas Vengenance, I was excitedly waiting for the third part. I wanted to know how this battle was played and who won. The book vividly depicts the political, emotional, and personal trajectories of the Pallava and Chalukya emperors and those near and dear to them.
As per the plan, the chosen soldiers, Elango, Kannan, and Muthuvel, went to perform a hidden mission of visiting different parts of Bharatvarsha, from the Maurya empire in the north to Lanka in the south, in a game of intrigue and political maneuvers. These three fearless Pallava captains felt cornered and hopeless after suffering devastating losses at the Korkai, Parivipura, and Asanur strongholds.
It is intriguing to read about the Pallava king Narasimhavarman in Kanchi. He is set ready to confront his nemesis, Pullikeshi, as promised to his father on the deathbed, in a battle that is not just for territory but for honor, revenge, and a promise. Is the mighty King Pullikeshi as invincible as he believes? Can the young king stand against this mighty lion and change the fate of seventh-century India?
I was laughing at the surprise attack on Jayanthavarman by the Thaamarai and Muthuvel inside the fort. With a majority of the Korkai soldiers having been killed or having fled the fort after the fall of the city, and with the royal family incarcerated in the dungeons, Jayanthavarman did not expect any attacks. Even the soldiers weren't particularly alert. The smile and comfort she felt after rescuing her parents from him were heart-touching.
The scene where Elango and Muthuvel meet after a long span mesmerized me of their first meeting in the first book. The look and the way they honour General IIannthiraiyanar are breathtaking. But the wait and longing for their counter-lovers the women made me feel the pain and mental trauma faced by the army wives or lovers.
The most touching part is the vivid depiction of battle scenes and the aftermath created by those battles. I felt the ego, anger, and selfishness that make the leaders long more for their landmarks. In reality, one leader should only check the well-being and safety of their kingdoms. The way they fulfill their duties leaves an indelible mark on the minds of the common people.
The third and last installment of this glorious trilogy is a triumphant finale that will leave readers spellbound, longing for more, yet satisfied by the epic conclusion of this extraordinary saga. With meticulous attention to detail and an unparalleled flair for storytelling, the author leaves an indelible mark on the genre of historical fiction.
The author's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring ancient India to life in all its glory and complexity. The denouement is poignant and worthy of the finale. His detailed descriptions bring the battlefield to life. We witness the long, arduous battles from a bird's-eye view, the intricate details of formations, the unforgiving terrain, and the challenges faced by warriors. The vivid descriptions transport the reader to a grueling period drama.
Overall, "Simha's Roar" does not disappoint. It is a grand, page-turning end to the trilogy. Highly recommended!
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This looks like a great version of history meets fiction. I am all for vivid details. Give me the book!
ReplyDeleteCertainly, this trilogy is a grand work. I have also read all the books. I liked the open end and the way the circle of life continues for the kings. The call for power and redemption never stops.
ReplyDeleteI read the first 2 parts of this trilogy and the 3rd one is now in my TBR and I am planning to start it soon. The author knows how to pen a perfect master piece to keep the readers hooked till the end. A well penned review.
ReplyDeleteHistory is not my area. But after reading your review it seems the combination of fiction and history. Would like to check out.
ReplyDeleteWhat an engaging review of "Simha's Roar" by Arun Krishnan! The vivid descriptions and in-depth analysis of the book make it clear why it's a must-read. The detailed portrayal of historical events and character dynamics sounds captivating. The review highlights the thrilling plot and emotional depth, making me eager to dive into this epic conclusion of the trilogy. Thanks for sharing such a thorough and enthusiastic review!
ReplyDeleteI may not be a fan of this kind of fiction, but reading your review made me excited about it and more especially for you. Looking forward for the 3rd part of it, I can almost feel your anticipation and excitement. Gad everything lived up to your expectations. - MommyWithAGoal
ReplyDeleteWow this book looks like an intriguing tale. I would love to follow the trilogy. Great review.
ReplyDeleteI love how you described the political intrigue and personal stories. Even though I haven't read the book, it sounds like a fascinating read.
ReplyDeleteWow. This definitely joins my TBR. An evocative review.
ReplyDeleteOh wow! Thank you so much for introducing this to me. Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and South Indian history, a much bigger and resounding Yes! Into my TBR and high up on the reading list too.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read the prequels so don't know the character names or situations but this does sound like a great wrap the series. Will check it out.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read the prequels so don't know the character names or situations but this does sound like a great wrap the series. Will check it out.
ReplyDeleteYour reviews are very tempting. I do like history, but I do not have the inclination for heavy reading anymore. Although you make it sound not put-downable :)
ReplyDeleteI m not quite a fan of such book or series on the whole. But your review is engaging and pleasant to read.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read a book based on Pallava and Chalukya dynasties. Reading your review, I will surely pick it up.
ReplyDeleteI remember reading your review of Varaha's Vengenance. I will probably read all three books at a go. Thanks for reviewing the series, Shefali. Always enjoy reading a good Indian historical fiction.
ReplyDeleteI've read a couple of very good historical fiction books lately and am in the mood for exploring more in this genre. Your review has pushed me towards the right direction and book. Thanks for the recommendation.
ReplyDeleteI have heard of this trilogy but haven't thought of reading it. I have always liked historical fictions n this looks interesting but I am facing a reader's block right now😭😭😭😭
ReplyDeleteI'm planning to read all three in a sequence. Going to get my cop now. Thanks for the wonderful review.
ReplyDeleteThe book "Simha's Roar" by Arun Krishnan seems exciting, thanks to your review. History intertwines with fiction, resulting in a magnificent outcome!
ReplyDeleteI'm not usually a fan of this type of fiction, but your review got me excited about it, especially for you. History isn't my usual interest, but the way you described the blend of fiction and history sounds really intriguing. I am going to chk this for sure.
ReplyDelete- Anjali
I find books that are well-researched are a class apart when it comes to storytelling. sounds like an interesting series.
ReplyDeleteI'm not familiar with this series at all but it sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteNoor Anand Chawla