The Velvet Hotline by Arsh Verma

 The Velvet Hotline by Arsh Verma

Mental health is becoming crucial these days. But every time one feels suicidal, is anyone there to help or not? This question strikes me whenever I think of it. In such thoughts, my eye struck on the book "The Velvet Hotline."

The Velvet Hotline is an intriguing story about a hotline that helps persons trying to commit suicide with some positive thoughts and stops them from suicide. It explores the dark and complex realities of suicide and mental health.

The story revolves around Ayingbi, a compassionate and courageous woman who works as a primary teacher. As a volunteer, she is working at a suicide hotline, hoping to make a difference in people’s lives.

However, she soon discovers that her job is not as simple as it seems and that she is entangled in a web of mystery, danger, and supernatural phenomenal scenarios. One such day, a phone call gets disconnected, and even her boss acts weird. She finds herself helpless. Something happens with the cats of the locality. This is just the beginning of the real encounter.

I was intrigued to find out the difference between her helpline and Dr. Rastogi's helpline. Her face-to-face reality that she can't save everyone breaks her but not her wit to outdo others and save humanity.

Verma's writing style is funny, bringing readers into Ayingbi's universe with a rich tapestry of surrealistic imagery and thought-provoking philosophical underpinnings. However, sensitive readers should be informed that the story explores major topics of suicide and sadness, which may be upsetting to some.

The advanced vocabulary and literary depth may challenge some readers, but they will ultimately enrich the reading experience for those who are willing to delve into its complexities.

Overall, it is a thought-provoking read.