My Rating - 5 out of 5 stars
Publisher - LeadstartGenre - Historical Fiction
Publishing year - 2022
Language - English
ISBN - 978-81-948043-8-3
Pages - 343
Book Review -
Raiders of Surat is the first book in The Legend of Bahirji-Naik trilogy penned by Shreyas Bhave. It is a gripping fictional novel that captures readers back to 17th-century India, a time of intense political turmoil and the struggle for Maratha Swarajya's survival. The story unfolds in 1663 when the dream of Shivaji Raje to establish a kingdom for the people is on the verge of crumbling.
The novel's central premise revolves around a daring mission to replenish the Swarajya's treasuries and reconstruct its depleted armies. The answer lies in a seemingly impossible task: an attack on the wealthy city of Surat, deep within the Mughal domain and guarded by the formidable Mughal Subhedar Inayat Khan and his army.
The success of this mission depends on the spies, mainly the enigmatic Bahirji-Naik and their new prodigy, Shashidhwaj. The author took the liberty to create twin characters of Bahirji Bandal and Sadashiv Naik, hence the Bahirji-Naik duo instead of one person, mentioned in our historical texts. The trio gathered vital information through their intricate strategies, which led to massive bloodshed.
Shreyas Bhave painted a vivid and immersive picture of 17th-century India, capturing the time's cultural, political, and social nuances. Readers will be transported to a world where alliances are fragile, betrayals are common, and survival hinges on wit, courage, and resourcefulness.
The characters in the novel are compelling and well-drawn, each with distinct personalities and motivations. Bahirji and Naik are charismatic and stand out as complex and mystifying figures. Shashidhwaj's character arc, from a naive young boy to a formidable operative, is skillfully developed, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in his journey.
The story's pacing is fast, filled with heart-pounding action sequences, intricate espionage, and unexpected twists that keep readers eagerly turning the pages. This book not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on a pivotal period in Indian history and the indomitable spirit of the Marathas in the face of the mighty Mughal Empire. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of a people who fought against all odds to protect their Swarajya.
In conclusion, it is a remarkable work of Indian historical fiction, and I can't wait to read the second book in the series, Siege of Panhala. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys this genre or is curious about India's rich history. I recommend it.
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