Dragonflies by Supriya Parulekar | Book Review
Supriya Parulekar creates a visceral, emotionally charged narrative in "Dragonflies" that offers much more than a typical thriller. What begins as a suspenseful investigation into the glamorous life of a Bollywood superstar gradually transforms into a psychological investigation into trauma, identity, and the desperate attempt at healing.
The main character, Sonya Rana, is a superstar in Bollywood who leads a glamorous life of beauty, wealth, fame, and public success. She, on the other hand, lives an entirely different life in real life. Sonya meets with her therapist about her disturbing nightmares, or perhaps we could call them disturbing childhood memories, at the beginning of the story.
Tania, the stepsister, arrives, and she is about as helpful as a broken umbrella during a storm. But hey, what’s family for if not to add extra chaos to your already deteriorating life? Sonya's life is spiralling out of control faster than a Bollywood dance number on caffeine, and all she wants is some peace of mind (and possibly a dramatic transformation sequence featuring slow-motion hair flips). Instead of loops and thrills, this book plunges you into a deep, dark abyss of existential dread, shadowy pasts, and soul-sucking demons.
It is the rollercoaster ride of all rollercoasters. By the end, you'll be questioning whether or not you have any demons hiding in your own closet—don't worry, we all do—and the suspense is thicker and more intense than a Bollywood plot twist. The story sheds a haunting light on issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide.
The writer does not gloss over Sonya's mental illness or romanticise her suffering. Instead, she allows it to unfold with honesty and discomfort, evoking empathy and introspection. The trauma is more than just a plot point; it is the heart, the driving force behind Sonya's downfall and eventual redemption.
Fame is presented as a pedestal and a prison at the same time. Sonya’s glamorous public image becomes a mask that she’s increasingly unable to hold. A harrowing but insightful read is provided by the contrast between internal disintegration and perception from the outside.
A quote from the book that piqued me:
💓"Sonya heard Tania’s voice in her head. “See, doing things your way does not harm you. Learn to say ‘no.’
Readers are drawn into the complexities of Sonya's mind thanks to the engaging and immersive narrative. The plot is enhanced by the thoughtful creation of each character. In addition, the book delves into the intricate nature of human relationships, looking at how they can both be a support system and a cause of conflict.
Tania, Sonya's stepsister, is at the centre of her struggle. She is her unwavering anchor in her life and gives her the emotional support she so desperately needs. However, Tania's presence also brings forth feelings of jealousy and resentment, as Sonya grapples with her insecurities. This duality in their relationship adds depth to the story, highlighting the complexities of familial bonds that can be both nurturing and tumultuous.
In conclusion, it is a meditation on pain, healing, and identity as well as a psychological thriller. It discusses mental fragility, the weight of unhealed wounds, and the courage required to confront internal shadows. The author doesn't tell us a clean story with a happy ending; rather, she tells us a story about a woman's turbulent journey through madness, memory, and, in the end, self-repair.
Purchase Dragonflies here.
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