Shadowbound: An Indian Superhero Thriller by Nikhil Sampath

 Shadowbound: An Indian Superhero Thriller by Nikhil Sampath

Shadowbound is a touching story about Kadhir. It's an enormous and very intimate fantasy about destiny, memory, and the decisions that shape who we are.

Kadhir is a college student who has odd abilities after a dark night at a temple. Afterwards, pupils begin to go missing, and no one knows when, how, or where. As darkness falls over the community, Kadhir must take the initiative and act like a hero to preserve lives. 

Kadhir realises that the key to solving the mystery lies in the ancient texts hidden in the temple's depths. As he delves deeper into the lore, he uncovers a dark prophecy that foretells the rise of a malevolent force, pushing him to confront not only the enemy but also the shadows lurking within his own soul.

Surekha is an additional highlight. Initially, I considered her irritating, but as the novel progresses, she develops into a truly endearing character. 

Her wit and resilience provide a much-needed balance to the narrative, allowing for moments of levity amidst the tension. As their paths intertwine, both characters learn valuable lessons about trust and the strength found in companionship.

Quotes from the book that piqued me:

🌺"It hit him—how one thoughtless, split-second act could change what people believed, maybe even change their lives."

🌺“In the garden where prayers grew on vines, and the breeze bowed before the bloom, one flower does not sing. It glows. It listens. But not to the one who speaks.”

The location is vividly imagined, the lore is methodically developed, and the prose is simple and immersive, with no superfluous fluff. The antagonist is chaotic and crazy, which works brilliantly for the plot.  

Overall, Shadowbound is a mythological thriller with a unique concept and a compelling tale. If you appreciate Indian folklore, mystical mysteries, or stories about shadow heroes, this is a must-read.

Purchase here.

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