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Return of the Brahmin
A FAST\-MOVING SEQUEL TO THE BRAHMIN, SET IN THE IMMEDIATE AFTERMATH OF\nEMPEROR ASHOKA’S DEVASTATION OF KALINGA\nAfter thwarting the malicious Kalingan general Lord Suma and becoming the emperor of\nMagadha, Ashoka is now faced with a new threat―a faceless foe whose only aim is to topple\nhis empire. His brutal killings of Magadhan officials, kidnappings of royal prisoners and\ninfiltrating of the royal palace of Tamralipti weave a mesh of hatred, intrigue and menace.\nNo one knows who he is, yet he breathes such terror into his network of followers that even a\ndying man fears uttering his name. He calls himself the Khandapati.\nThere’s only one man in the empire that Ashoka can turn to. Spurred on by years of friendship\nand sworn loyalty, the Brahmin finds himself back in the royal capital, caught in a violent\nconspiracy that extends beyond Magadhan boundaries. Will he be able to live up to his role\nas the protector of the empire or is the merciless villain more than a match for the Brahmin?
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Published June 14, 2021
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30 people want to read
About the author
Ravi Shankar Etteth
12 books34 followersOne of India’s most famous cartoonists and journalists, Ravi Shankar Etteth published his first book of short stories The Scream of the Dragonflies in 1996. He then went on to write five novels, The Tiger by The River, The Village of Widows, The Gold of Their Regrets, The Book of Shiva and The Brahmin. They have been translated and published in eight international languages. His books cut across all genres like literary fiction, horror, crime and spirituality and periods like feudal Kerala, Nazi Germany and the Magadha Empire. He also collaborated with artist Paresh Maity on a coffee-table book on Kerala. Etteth is now working on his sixth title, Killing Time in Delhi, which he says is a “a novel on the shenanigans of Delhi's super rich”. A Bollywood film on The Brahmin is also in the works.
Ravi Shankar worked for Indian Express in the 1980s, and later as the Creative Director of the Observer Group. He joined India Today as Art Editor and went on to become its Managing Editor and, later, Editor-at-Large. He also edited the India Today Group’s afternoon paper Today and launched the lifestyle magazine India Today Spice. He was briefly the CEO and Editor and Chief of Voice of India and Millionaire. He is now a columnist and Consulting Editor with The New Indian Express and is based in New Delhi.
Ravi Shankar worked for Indian Express in the 1980s, and later as the Creative Director of the Observer Group. He joined India Today as Art Editor and went on to become its Managing Editor and, later, Editor-at-Large. He also edited the India Today Group’s afternoon paper Today and launched the lifestyle magazine India Today Spice. He was briefly the CEO and Editor and Chief of Voice of India and Millionaire. He is now a columnist and Consulting Editor with The New Indian Express and is based in New Delhi.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 15, 2021
This is how it all started. Long time ago, when the World was perfect and Amazon used to give out 1 free ebook per month for Prime users, I stumbled upon “The Brahmin” (Prequel to this book). I grabbed the book with both hands as I an unabashed fan of Historical fiction. The book was fairly intriguing and felt like the usual Period dramas we watch on screen. Then came the opportunity to review, “Return of Brahmin” and I took it (well, obviously).
So, this book is set in the times when King Ashoka has destroyed Kalinga. Brahmin, the former spymaster of Ashoka has returned to Magadha when the empire is under threat and amidst a lot of conspiracies.
This book has some very fascinating characters specially, Vish kanyas, Kandapathi, Nirmukh, Pretnath to name a few. It was interesting to see some very distinct facets of their personalities which are etched marvelously. The relationship between Ashoka and Brahmin was also noteworthy. The unshakable loyalty of Brahmin towards the King, the trust and respect was quite clearly seen throughout.
I loved the writing style of the Author, it was crisp and engaging. He has filled the gaps in the History we know, quite well with the fiction, making it a compelling read. The book is a fast paced thriller that will keep you engrossed through out. The mood of the book is set from the very beginning of the page with an elaborate narrative of Brahmin eating his soup in a road side restaurant. Though, the writing does feel a little dragged at places but the book still holds up.
Overall, this book is a quintessential Spy thriller and works well in that genre. It is fast paced and not heavy on head. Yes, there are a lot of characters but you will get accustomed with their names after a while. It has some great lines which make you think towards history and literature and their effect on each other. At the end, it is an enjoyable read.This is how it all started. Long time ago, when the World was perfect and Amazon used to give out 1 free ebook per month for Prime users, I stumbled upon “The Brahmin” (Prequel to this book). I grabbed the book with both hands as I an unabashed fan of Historical fiction. The book was fairly intriguing and felt like the usual Period dramas we watch on screen. Then came the opportunity to review, “Return of Brahmin” and I took it (well, obviously).
So, this book is set in the times when King Ashoka has destroyed Kalinga. Brahmin, the former spymaster of Ashoka has returned to Magadha when the empire is under threat and amidst a lot of conspiracies.
This book has some very fascinating characters specially, Vish kanyas, Kandapathi, Nirmukh, Pretnath to name a few. It was interesting to see some very distinct facets of their personalities which are etched marvelously. The relationship between Ashoka and Brahmin was also noteworthy. The unshakable loyalty of Brahmin towards the King, the trust and respect was quite clearly seen throughout.
I loved the writing style of the Author, it was crisp and engaging. He has filled the gaps in the History we know, quite well with the fiction, making it a compelling read. The book is a fast paced thriller that will keep you engrossed through out. The mood of the book is set from the very beginning of the page with an elaborate narrative of Brahmin eating his soup in a road side restaurant. Though, the writing does feel a little dragged at places but the book still holds up.
Overall, this book is a quintessential Spy thriller and works well in that genre. It is fast paced and not heavy on head. Yes, there are a lot of characters but you will get accustomed with their names after a while. It has some great lines which make you think towards history and literature and their effect on each other. At the end, it is an enjoyable read.
So, this book is set in the times when King Ashoka has destroyed Kalinga. Brahmin, the former spymaster of Ashoka has returned to Magadha when the empire is under threat and amidst a lot of conspiracies.
This book has some very fascinating characters specially, Vish kanyas, Kandapathi, Nirmukh, Pretnath to name a few. It was interesting to see some very distinct facets of their personalities which are etched marvelously. The relationship between Ashoka and Brahmin was also noteworthy. The unshakable loyalty of Brahmin towards the King, the trust and respect was quite clearly seen throughout.
I loved the writing style of the Author, it was crisp and engaging. He has filled the gaps in the History we know, quite well with the fiction, making it a compelling read. The book is a fast paced thriller that will keep you engrossed through out. The mood of the book is set from the very beginning of the page with an elaborate narrative of Brahmin eating his soup in a road side restaurant. Though, the writing does feel a little dragged at places but the book still holds up.
Overall, this book is a quintessential Spy thriller and works well in that genre. It is fast paced and not heavy on head. Yes, there are a lot of characters but you will get accustomed with their names after a while. It has some great lines which make you think towards history and literature and their effect on each other. At the end, it is an enjoyable read.This is how it all started. Long time ago, when the World was perfect and Amazon used to give out 1 free ebook per month for Prime users, I stumbled upon “The Brahmin” (Prequel to this book). I grabbed the book with both hands as I an unabashed fan of Historical fiction. The book was fairly intriguing and felt like the usual Period dramas we watch on screen. Then came the opportunity to review, “Return of Brahmin” and I took it (well, obviously).
So, this book is set in the times when King Ashoka has destroyed Kalinga. Brahmin, the former spymaster of Ashoka has returned to Magadha when the empire is under threat and amidst a lot of conspiracies.
This book has some very fascinating characters specially, Vish kanyas, Kandapathi, Nirmukh, Pretnath to name a few. It was interesting to see some very distinct facets of their personalities which are etched marvelously. The relationship between Ashoka and Brahmin was also noteworthy. The unshakable loyalty of Brahmin towards the King, the trust and respect was quite clearly seen throughout.
I loved the writing style of the Author, it was crisp and engaging. He has filled the gaps in the History we know, quite well with the fiction, making it a compelling read. The book is a fast paced thriller that will keep you engrossed through out. The mood of the book is set from the very beginning of the page with an elaborate narrative of Brahmin eating his soup in a road side restaurant. Though, the writing does feel a little dragged at places but the book still holds up.
Overall, this book is a quintessential Spy thriller and works well in that genre. It is fast paced and not heavy on head. Yes, there are a lot of characters but you will get accustomed with their names after a while. It has some great lines which make you think towards history and literature and their effect on each other. At the end, it is an enjoyable read.
September 28, 2021
Okay, let me start out by saying I had no idea this is the second book from the series "The Brahmin by Ravi Shankar Etteth" so I might have to read that book now as a prequel but it does not make much difference to the storyline, it is easy to pick up. Return of Brahmin is a historical thriller set in times when Ashoka used to be the ruler, The brahmin is a loyal spymaster, working for king Ashoka, he is ready to do anything to save his kingdom and the king from the enemies.
Although the plot twist was written very well by the author yet too many characters and descriptive writing style made its slow pace, I like fast pace thriller books. I was intrigued to learn about King Ashoka and his reins
Although the plot twist was written very well by the author yet too many characters and descriptive writing style made its slow pace, I like fast pace thriller books. I was intrigued to learn about King Ashoka and his reins
August 15, 2021
Man, what a drama!
Let me start off by saying, as the title already suggests, this is the sequel of an already famed book "The Brahmin". I stupidly didn't do enough research about it, as I never do, fearing it might take a lot of thrill from the story; and rightly so, in many cases.
To my surprise, this book didn't disappoint as a standalone issue; in fact I was really into the story just a few pages in. I, being a sucker for historical fictions, just kept flipping through pages, and before I realised the book was over - 300+ pages consumed, just like that.
As for the protagonist, the character development was amazing, even though this was not the introductory story. The plot took its own twists and turns, with way too many characters - each with their own importance in the plot - playing their parts. As with most heroic Indian historical fictions, there was politics, dialogue exchanges (not to the exaggerated level, though), action, plotting, witchcraft and wizardry, lavish settings, and a lot more.
We usually remember the kings and royals for their part in history, while some of the greatest heroes are often forgotten or are unheard of. This story is about a spymaster serving the greatest king India ever had - Ashoka "The Great". Of course, it's a fiction. But, that doesn't mean the real life king expanded his empire on his own. It must have taken strong players like the Brahmin to help keep the emperors at their rightful throne.
One more thing which really struck a chord was having so many strong women playing really important roles in the story. It wasn't out of need, or feminism trend - as seen in today's world, smh. In fact, it came out so naturally, I was amazed. Even having homosexuality woven so subtly in the plot is definitely worth the mention.
I loved the descriptive style of storytelling. I was brought into that world everytime I sat to read the book. The rich use of words got me mesmerized by the writing style of the author; mostly because I often have so much to say, but due to the lack of vocabulary, the right word, I am not able to fully justify my feelings. So, that's one thing, out of many, to be envious of.
Probably the only thing that could have been better, imo, is the second half of the book - the climax, to be exact. With a plot so great, and with so much build up, you'd expect an equally larger-than-life ending. But, somehow, the way everything was unfolded fell flat. I could predict most of it, even before I read about it. Not disappointed still, my expectations where justifiably high. (The climax "scene" was amazing though, didn't think of that one, for sure!)
Overall, a must read, if you're a historical-fiction fan like me! Go, fetch before it's sold out.
Let me start off by saying, as the title already suggests, this is the sequel of an already famed book "The Brahmin". I stupidly didn't do enough research about it, as I never do, fearing it might take a lot of thrill from the story; and rightly so, in many cases.
To my surprise, this book didn't disappoint as a standalone issue; in fact I was really into the story just a few pages in. I, being a sucker for historical fictions, just kept flipping through pages, and before I realised the book was over - 300+ pages consumed, just like that.
As for the protagonist, the character development was amazing, even though this was not the introductory story. The plot took its own twists and turns, with way too many characters - each with their own importance in the plot - playing their parts. As with most heroic Indian historical fictions, there was politics, dialogue exchanges (not to the exaggerated level, though), action, plotting, witchcraft and wizardry, lavish settings, and a lot more.
We usually remember the kings and royals for their part in history, while some of the greatest heroes are often forgotten or are unheard of. This story is about a spymaster serving the greatest king India ever had - Ashoka "The Great". Of course, it's a fiction. But, that doesn't mean the real life king expanded his empire on his own. It must have taken strong players like the Brahmin to help keep the emperors at their rightful throne.
One more thing which really struck a chord was having so many strong women playing really important roles in the story. It wasn't out of need, or feminism trend - as seen in today's world, smh. In fact, it came out so naturally, I was amazed. Even having homosexuality woven so subtly in the plot is definitely worth the mention.
I loved the descriptive style of storytelling. I was brought into that world everytime I sat to read the book. The rich use of words got me mesmerized by the writing style of the author; mostly because I often have so much to say, but due to the lack of vocabulary, the right word, I am not able to fully justify my feelings. So, that's one thing, out of many, to be envious of.
Probably the only thing that could have been better, imo, is the second half of the book - the climax, to be exact. With a plot so great, and with so much build up, you'd expect an equally larger-than-life ending. But, somehow, the way everything was unfolded fell flat. I could predict most of it, even before I read about it. Not disappointed still, my expectations where justifiably high. (The climax "scene" was amazing though, didn't think of that one, for sure!)
Overall, a must read, if you're a historical-fiction fan like me! Go, fetch before it's sold out.
August 9, 2021
Ashoka (popularly known as Ashoka the Great), probably the most ambitious king of the Maurya dynasty, who went on to rule the entire Indian subcontinent through several battles and became one of the greatest emperors in Indian history, is well known for renouncing violence and adopting and spreading Buddhism as an aftermath of the violence which happened during the infamous Kalinga war that resulted into 100,000 deaths and 150,000 deportations.
The history after Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and renouncing violence is all rosy and glorifies the sudden heart change that occurred to the King. But is that so simple? There is a saying in Hindi "नौ सौ चूहे खा के बिल्ली हज को चली।". I often feel this saying fits the great emperor the most. I wonder how someone's heart can change suddenly after creating so much blood bath? Well, history does not talk about it but this book does.
Set in the backdrop of Ashoka's kingdom after the King renounced violence, the story is a smooth amalgamation of history, fiction, fact, suspense, and thriller. The Brahmin who was once Ashoka's spymaster, friend, and co-warrior during the Kalinga war returns to Magadh after several years to rescue the King from a web of conspiracies aimed at dethroning the King who is determined to launch a holy war against anyone who does not believe in Buddha. A King, who has renounced violence, feels war is justified if it is in the name of Buddha! Adding to the suspense is Nirmukh whom the Buddhist King is hiding from everyone, whom no one has seen, whose whereabouts are known to none. Full of drama, action, intriguing plot and well crafted characters, this book is sure to leave an impact on readers.
The most notable part of this book is the author's attention to detail in explaining every scene and every character. A language and narration which can come only from an expert writer, this book is an awesome work of literature. Some readers may find the pace a bit slow because of the amount of detail provided in each scene, but the story would have lost its impact if the detail would not have been there. Maintaining its rhythm and intrigue the story smoothly creates suspense and slowly uncovers it layer by layer. Only in the end the effort of joining all the dots needed better work as it felt all too rushed and half cooked. But other than that the readers will surely enjoy the story and would love the characters woven by the author. Recommended to all the readers who love an amalgamation of historical fiction and suspense thrillers.
The history after Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and renouncing violence is all rosy and glorifies the sudden heart change that occurred to the King. But is that so simple? There is a saying in Hindi "नौ सौ चूहे खा के बिल्ली हज को चली।". I often feel this saying fits the great emperor the most. I wonder how someone's heart can change suddenly after creating so much blood bath? Well, history does not talk about it but this book does.
Set in the backdrop of Ashoka's kingdom after the King renounced violence, the story is a smooth amalgamation of history, fiction, fact, suspense, and thriller. The Brahmin who was once Ashoka's spymaster, friend, and co-warrior during the Kalinga war returns to Magadh after several years to rescue the King from a web of conspiracies aimed at dethroning the King who is determined to launch a holy war against anyone who does not believe in Buddha. A King, who has renounced violence, feels war is justified if it is in the name of Buddha! Adding to the suspense is Nirmukh whom the Buddhist King is hiding from everyone, whom no one has seen, whose whereabouts are known to none. Full of drama, action, intriguing plot and well crafted characters, this book is sure to leave an impact on readers.
The most notable part of this book is the author's attention to detail in explaining every scene and every character. A language and narration which can come only from an expert writer, this book is an awesome work of literature. Some readers may find the pace a bit slow because of the amount of detail provided in each scene, but the story would have lost its impact if the detail would not have been there. Maintaining its rhythm and intrigue the story smoothly creates suspense and slowly uncovers it layer by layer. Only in the end the effort of joining all the dots needed better work as it felt all too rushed and half cooked. But other than that the readers will surely enjoy the story and would love the characters woven by the author. Recommended to all the readers who love an amalgamation of historical fiction and suspense thrillers.
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August 11, 2021
The return of the Brahmin is a historical thriller set in the times of Ashoka the Great! This is a sequel to the book The Brahmin. Even though this is a sequel [and I haven’t read the part 1] the storyline is easy to pick up from the part 2.
The Brahmin is the Emperor’s wily spymaster and he returns to Magadha only to find himself amidst a hell lot of conspiracies! Magadha is under turbulence. The Buddhist Emperor is caught in a web of lies and deceit and those around him are plotting against the throne.
The spy master is under great resolve to calm the waters and this fast paced book takes us through various regions of the Kingdom and introduces to several characters.
The characters are aplenty and it takes a while to get used to them. The characterization is quite interesting, like the Visha Kanyas or the poison maidens who are fed with tiny doses of poison so that they become immune to it and they are sent to kill kings and imperial officials! The Nirmukh or the faceless man, Pretnath , the necromancer, Kandapathi, the enemy who is hell bent on killing Ashoka etc are some of the unique characters that you will come across. Each character has some really distinctive qualities and one can never imagine what havoc they can cause!
Ashoka who turns to Buddhism after the war and embraces non-violence still wants to go on a Holy war against the Ajivika sect who do not believe in reincarnation. With this war in mind and the threat to the life of both the King and the Brahmin, the spymaster tactfully manages each and every situation.
The relationship between the Brahmin and the King is brought out very well. It shows how much respect and trust they have on each other. They tactfully escape various assassination attempts and the spymaster proves his loyalty to the King by above and beyond the means of duty.
The narrative is very vivid. Be it the dresses, food, landscape, transportation, character description, all are descriptive and the author brings before our eyes everything from the ancient times!
On the whole, this is a fact paced and action packed historical thriller that takes you to Magadha and beyond. An enjoyable read filled with suspense that moves at an electrifying speed that you won’t put down the book until you reach the last page! I finished this in a day!
The Brahmin is the Emperor’s wily spymaster and he returns to Magadha only to find himself amidst a hell lot of conspiracies! Magadha is under turbulence. The Buddhist Emperor is caught in a web of lies and deceit and those around him are plotting against the throne.
The spy master is under great resolve to calm the waters and this fast paced book takes us through various regions of the Kingdom and introduces to several characters.
The characters are aplenty and it takes a while to get used to them. The characterization is quite interesting, like the Visha Kanyas or the poison maidens who are fed with tiny doses of poison so that they become immune to it and they are sent to kill kings and imperial officials! The Nirmukh or the faceless man, Pretnath , the necromancer, Kandapathi, the enemy who is hell bent on killing Ashoka etc are some of the unique characters that you will come across. Each character has some really distinctive qualities and one can never imagine what havoc they can cause!
Ashoka who turns to Buddhism after the war and embraces non-violence still wants to go on a Holy war against the Ajivika sect who do not believe in reincarnation. With this war in mind and the threat to the life of both the King and the Brahmin, the spymaster tactfully manages each and every situation.
The relationship between the Brahmin and the King is brought out very well. It shows how much respect and trust they have on each other. They tactfully escape various assassination attempts and the spymaster proves his loyalty to the King by above and beyond the means of duty.
The narrative is very vivid. Be it the dresses, food, landscape, transportation, character description, all are descriptive and the author brings before our eyes everything from the ancient times!
On the whole, this is a fact paced and action packed historical thriller that takes you to Magadha and beyond. An enjoyable read filled with suspense that moves at an electrifying speed that you won’t put down the book until you reach the last page! I finished this in a day!
August 13, 2021
Book: Return of the Brahmin
Author: Ravi Shankar Etteth
Genre: Fiction
#bookmail
"Unbelievable things happen only in believable situations"
King Ashoka, was more unpredictable than a thunderstorm in summer. He often invited the best-known wrestlers of Magadha to grapple with him. According to him, he doesn't wrestle to settle the differences but to hug his friends tighter. He was obsessed with pillars, he tore down the old royal residences to build glorious new palaces. He was fond of statues of voluptuous women wielding silk whisks. One could demand anything from one's emperor in the name of God, but there was only one god in Magadha. The emperor.
Brahmin, the feared former spymaster of Magadha. It was said that he was a man who could not be killed. He could enter or leave any room unseen, hear the faintest whispers, and crack the most complicated code with just a glance. Saddened by Ashoka's determination to attack Kalinga, the spymaster had left the royal service.
He was fluent in many languages. It was said that the Brahim came from ancient lines of spies that went back to the court of King Ravana of Lanka. Even the best warriors of Ashoka were no match for him. The emperor saw him as an ineffable creature of power and stealth.
"The Brahmin is never in anyone's debt. Debts are like parchisi pieces to him"
Queen Devi, was the first wife of Ashoka. She left him a few years after they married to become a Buddhist nun. Later emperor married Queen Asandhimitra who was an efficient organizer.
Daarya, most powerful vishkanya in the world. She had educated the Brahmin in the science of venoms. She taught him to recognize herbs and plants by sight, smell, and color. She made him immune to poison by feeding him carefully measured potions of various toxins and venoms.
Khandapati, or the Broken Man, was a deadly enigma. Nobody knew his real name, origin, or hideout. He had appeared out of nowhere, spreading fear, death, and destruction among corrupt officials.
I am a fan of Ravi Shankar's work after reading "THE BRAHIM", the first part of this series. All characters are well defined by him. It's an impossible task to put the book down once picked by you as it's an amazing historical thriller.
"A man must learn to fear himself before he starts to frighten the world"
Author: Ravi Shankar Etteth
Genre: Fiction
#bookmail
"Unbelievable things happen only in believable situations"
King Ashoka, was more unpredictable than a thunderstorm in summer. He often invited the best-known wrestlers of Magadha to grapple with him. According to him, he doesn't wrestle to settle the differences but to hug his friends tighter. He was obsessed with pillars, he tore down the old royal residences to build glorious new palaces. He was fond of statues of voluptuous women wielding silk whisks. One could demand anything from one's emperor in the name of God, but there was only one god in Magadha. The emperor.
Brahmin, the feared former spymaster of Magadha. It was said that he was a man who could not be killed. He could enter or leave any room unseen, hear the faintest whispers, and crack the most complicated code with just a glance. Saddened by Ashoka's determination to attack Kalinga, the spymaster had left the royal service.
He was fluent in many languages. It was said that the Brahim came from ancient lines of spies that went back to the court of King Ravana of Lanka. Even the best warriors of Ashoka were no match for him. The emperor saw him as an ineffable creature of power and stealth.
"The Brahmin is never in anyone's debt. Debts are like parchisi pieces to him"
Queen Devi, was the first wife of Ashoka. She left him a few years after they married to become a Buddhist nun. Later emperor married Queen Asandhimitra who was an efficient organizer.
Daarya, most powerful vishkanya in the world. She had educated the Brahmin in the science of venoms. She taught him to recognize herbs and plants by sight, smell, and color. She made him immune to poison by feeding him carefully measured potions of various toxins and venoms.
Khandapati, or the Broken Man, was a deadly enigma. Nobody knew his real name, origin, or hideout. He had appeared out of nowhere, spreading fear, death, and destruction among corrupt officials.
I am a fan of Ravi Shankar's work after reading "THE BRAHIM", the first part of this series. All characters are well defined by him. It's an impossible task to put the book down once picked by you as it's an amazing historical thriller.
"A man must learn to fear himself before he starts to frighten the world"
August 31, 2021
July2021release
" Kings write history with the blood of both friends & enemies."
-The book begins with a cast of characters, which is really helpful.
-The chapter titles are interesting & worth a mention.
-The Brahmin, the former spymaster of Magadha who had served Ashoka before the Kalinga War, has returned. But why? What made the Brahmin come back? He had left, saddened by Ashoka's determination to attack Kalinga.
Ashoka had appointed himself as Buddha's agent on earth but he intends to serve his own interests, in disguise. He is expanding his empire by waging war in the Buddha's name.
Ajivikas, a harmless sect who had been honoured by both Bindusara & Chandragupta, is hated by Buddhists, due to differences in beliefs.
Mystical things like manchurian scorpions, vishkanyas add to the story.
"History judges emperors not by the wars they win but by the peace they bring."
"Politics works best when faith enters the picture."
"True kings never forget their strength."
"They fear you, Ashoka, but they love me, for I'm their father."
" There can't be two power centres in the empire..."
The read/ story has enough mysterious elements to keep the reader wanting for more. For me, the most exhilarating moments were in the last few chapters when all the mysterious characters & their actions are revealed.
To add to the thrill, the end left me baffled..kind of a cliffhanger..
______
I chose to read this book because of it's attractive mystical cover & title & I wasn't disappointed.
The pace is moderate, for 300+ pgs but as we near the end, the revelations are breathtaking.
______
#returnofthebrahmin by @ravishankaretteth @westlandbooks
-Genre: #historicalfiction
Part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. Infact I wasn't aware till now, that it has a prequel ( #thebrahmin ).
_____
🌸
Isn't this year, fleeting by so fast? Or is it just me..?
#noorthebookwormreviews
" Kings write history with the blood of both friends & enemies."
-The book begins with a cast of characters, which is really helpful.
-The chapter titles are interesting & worth a mention.
-The Brahmin, the former spymaster of Magadha who had served Ashoka before the Kalinga War, has returned. But why? What made the Brahmin come back? He had left, saddened by Ashoka's determination to attack Kalinga.
Ashoka had appointed himself as Buddha's agent on earth but he intends to serve his own interests, in disguise. He is expanding his empire by waging war in the Buddha's name.
Ajivikas, a harmless sect who had been honoured by both Bindusara & Chandragupta, is hated by Buddhists, due to differences in beliefs.
Mystical things like manchurian scorpions, vishkanyas add to the story.
"History judges emperors not by the wars they win but by the peace they bring."
"Politics works best when faith enters the picture."
"True kings never forget their strength."
"They fear you, Ashoka, but they love me, for I'm their father."
" There can't be two power centres in the empire..."
The read/ story has enough mysterious elements to keep the reader wanting for more. For me, the most exhilarating moments were in the last few chapters when all the mysterious characters & their actions are revealed.
To add to the thrill, the end left me baffled..kind of a cliffhanger..
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I chose to read this book because of it's attractive mystical cover & title & I wasn't disappointed.
The pace is moderate, for 300+ pgs but as we near the end, the revelations are breathtaking.
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#returnofthebrahmin by @ravishankaretteth @westlandbooks
-Genre: #historicalfiction
Part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. Infact I wasn't aware till now, that it has a prequel ( #thebrahmin ).
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Isn't this year, fleeting by so fast? Or is it just me..?
#noorthebookwormreviews
August 14, 2021
"Peace takes more work than thrusting a sword into someone's heart."
History is a fascinating battle between peace and war. It's a vast world people have been imagining and re-imagining. Rulers, their legacies of bloodshed and victories have seeped in literature. With each page of history turned, the fingers touch those blood marks passed on as a legacy, as words.
History thrives in literature. Voices of the past come alive when authors walk those painful miles back to history. And, it's this essence of going back in time, that literature of the past becomes vivid.
Talking about Return Of The Brahmin, it's about Ashoka and his spy - Brahmin and the history of wars and threats that either Ashoka paved way for or had to fight. Reading this book made me ponder over the impact of history on literature and of literature on history. I've come across Ashoka as a great Emperor couple of times but this perception was a new one. I realized how emperors or rulers create a sense of ending wars through their wars while no war can end all wars. Something always remains. Aching. Seeking. And even as Ashoka pretended to hold onto Buddhism, he missed the essence of it. He couldn't grasp its roots or live by it. It felt like a battle of power and captivity for him.
I found the writing style crisp and elaborate. Right from the first chapter, I felt how the author worked on creating a historical atmosphere in this book. Nothing seemed forced or hollow. There was this historical essence I could sense while turning the pages. The descriptions enhanced the overall theme of the book.
I did sense some flaws in the book, including descriptions and a slight drag that didn't add much to the story.
Overall, a nice book if reading about the history of emperors and their choices intrigues you.
Ratings : 3.5/5
History is a fascinating battle between peace and war. It's a vast world people have been imagining and re-imagining. Rulers, their legacies of bloodshed and victories have seeped in literature. With each page of history turned, the fingers touch those blood marks passed on as a legacy, as words.
History thrives in literature. Voices of the past come alive when authors walk those painful miles back to history. And, it's this essence of going back in time, that literature of the past becomes vivid.
Talking about Return Of The Brahmin, it's about Ashoka and his spy - Brahmin and the history of wars and threats that either Ashoka paved way for or had to fight. Reading this book made me ponder over the impact of history on literature and of literature on history. I've come across Ashoka as a great Emperor couple of times but this perception was a new one. I realized how emperors or rulers create a sense of ending wars through their wars while no war can end all wars. Something always remains. Aching. Seeking. And even as Ashoka pretended to hold onto Buddhism, he missed the essence of it. He couldn't grasp its roots or live by it. It felt like a battle of power and captivity for him.
I found the writing style crisp and elaborate. Right from the first chapter, I felt how the author worked on creating a historical atmosphere in this book. Nothing seemed forced or hollow. There was this historical essence I could sense while turning the pages. The descriptions enhanced the overall theme of the book.
I did sense some flaws in the book, including descriptions and a slight drag that didn't add much to the story.
Overall, a nice book if reading about the history of emperors and their choices intrigues you.
Ratings : 3.5/5
August 11, 2021
I was a die-hard fan of Ashoka, the TV serial. I would sit infront of the TV, sing the theme song as it played and applaud myself for being such a versatile singer and let myself be drawn into the historical story of the renowned Emperor of Magadha, I wouldn't budge an inch from infront of the screen. The show has quite a few similarities with this novel and the atmosphere that the author has conjured is every bit alluring. Though the narration takes a descriptive turn a few times, Return of the Brahmin is a fascinating read.
Return of the Brahmin is the second installment of Ravi Shankar Etteth's depiction of the aftermath of the Kalinga War. The plot revolves around a man who was locally known as Khandapati, though his identity was concealed amidst webs of lies and deceit, the uproar and menace he and his supporters were causing to topple the empire of Magadha terrorized all the inhabitants. He brews unrest among the masses of Magadha, leads the Resistance and prison riots. Many imperial officers were found with their throats slit, royals were kidnapped, and the palace was full of his spies. His wrath and terror was inexplicably contagious, even a dying man wouldn't dare cross him, let alone utter his name. With a vishkanya and a giant by his side, the Khandapati invoked terror.
Ashoka had defeated the devious Lord Suma but the Khandapati was a lethal foe; finding himself trapped on all sides he called on his old acquaintance and friend– the Brahmin, a spy master. Whether the Brahmin would be able to put an end to the Khandapati's devious plan of assassinating the Emperor or not is for you to discover. Shankar has drawn up a realm of violence, drama, intrigue and stunning characters!
Return of the Brahmin is the second installment of Ravi Shankar Etteth's depiction of the aftermath of the Kalinga War. The plot revolves around a man who was locally known as Khandapati, though his identity was concealed amidst webs of lies and deceit, the uproar and menace he and his supporters were causing to topple the empire of Magadha terrorized all the inhabitants. He brews unrest among the masses of Magadha, leads the Resistance and prison riots. Many imperial officers were found with their throats slit, royals were kidnapped, and the palace was full of his spies. His wrath and terror was inexplicably contagious, even a dying man wouldn't dare cross him, let alone utter his name. With a vishkanya and a giant by his side, the Khandapati invoked terror.
Ashoka had defeated the devious Lord Suma but the Khandapati was a lethal foe; finding himself trapped on all sides he called on his old acquaintance and friend– the Brahmin, a spy master. Whether the Brahmin would be able to put an end to the Khandapati's devious plan of assassinating the Emperor or not is for you to discover. Shankar has drawn up a realm of violence, drama, intrigue and stunning characters!
August 20, 2021
Ravi Shankar Etteth's " Return of the Brahmin" is a sequel to his earlier book "The Brahmin". Set in the aftermath of Emperor Ashoka's destruction of Kalinga the book is basically a historical fiction but is filled with action packed thriller. Though it's a sequel to "The Brahmin" but you can read it as a standalone too.
The person named Brahmin who used to be the spy master of Emperor Ashoka, returns to his master's kingdom due to a new threat to king's empire. A new enemy who goes by name of Khandapati. No one knows the true identity of this new unidentified enemy who takes pleasure in slaughtering imperial officials and is infiltrating the lands of kingdom. Caught in the a vortex of death and deceit, there is only brahmin whom the king can trust.
The writing style is very descriptive. Though the characters are interesting but involvement of too many characters takes a while to get used to them. And it's little slow paced too, It could have been more fast-paced. But overall it was a good read and if you are a historical fiction fan you should try this one. Recommended to all historical fiction lovers.
The person named Brahmin who used to be the spy master of Emperor Ashoka, returns to his master's kingdom due to a new threat to king's empire. A new enemy who goes by name of Khandapati. No one knows the true identity of this new unidentified enemy who takes pleasure in slaughtering imperial officials and is infiltrating the lands of kingdom. Caught in the a vortex of death and deceit, there is only brahmin whom the king can trust.
The writing style is very descriptive. Though the characters are interesting but involvement of too many characters takes a while to get used to them. And it's little slow paced too, It could have been more fast-paced. But overall it was a good read and if you are a historical fiction fan you should try this one. Recommended to all historical fiction lovers.
September 20, 2021
Sequel to "The Brahmin", the book is a historical thriller set in the time of King Ashoka, the backdrop being the kingdom of Magadh, after the King renounce violence and converted to Buddhism.
Brahmin, formerly the spymaster was Ashoka's confident who left the Royal service years ago, returns to the Kingdom to rescue the Emperor from a web of conspiracies and deceit which are being plotted to dethrone him. The book is high on drama and suspense.
Tbh, the book gave a new perspective of Ashoka after his conversion. All I have learnt from my history textbooks in school that The King of Magadh, Ashoka renounced violence after Kalinga war but a fresh perspective of the Emperor waging holy war against Ajivika sect due to the difference in beliefs is known from the book.
The plot is splendid. The narration is spectacular and power packed with suspense, history, fiction, drama and thrill. The characterization are well and intricately developed. An engaging story with numerous twists and turns makes the book a pageturner.
Brahmin, formerly the spymaster was Ashoka's confident who left the Royal service years ago, returns to the Kingdom to rescue the Emperor from a web of conspiracies and deceit which are being plotted to dethrone him. The book is high on drama and suspense.
Tbh, the book gave a new perspective of Ashoka after his conversion. All I have learnt from my history textbooks in school that The King of Magadh, Ashoka renounced violence after Kalinga war but a fresh perspective of the Emperor waging holy war against Ajivika sect due to the difference in beliefs is known from the book.
The plot is splendid. The narration is spectacular and power packed with suspense, history, fiction, drama and thrill. The characterization are well and intricately developed. An engaging story with numerous twists and turns makes the book a pageturner.
August 21, 2021
Set in the era of Ashoka's rule, the story has the elements of mystery, drama, vengeance, and thirst for power. The Brahmin, the most trusted spymaster, loyal to his king would do anything in his power to save the Ashoka and his kingdom.
Ashoka's life is in danger from his enemies Lord suma and the others. He is also in danger of losing his empire. The Brahmin comes to the rescue, playing a pivotal role in saving both the emperor's life and the kingdom. How he does help resolve the mystery makes for the story
Ashoka's life is in danger from his enemies Lord suma and the others. He is also in danger of losing his empire. The Brahmin comes to the rescue, playing a pivotal role in saving both the emperor's life and the kingdom. How he does help resolve the mystery makes for the story
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October 19, 2022Well written and totally absorbing style. Sometime back I read the book, The Brahmin. That book was so good, when I saw the second part, Return of the Brahmin, I immediately purchased it. I would say, this is better than the previous one. Entertaining and totally unpredictable. Kudos to the author, Ravi Shankar Etteth, for both the book. Keep up the good work.
October 9, 2021
Interesting read.. but few paragraphs copied straight from the prequel..
January 15, 2022
You cannot put it down. Fluent writing, keep you hooked.
April 13, 2022
Too much twisted, author tried to sound cinematic.
Plot was good.
Plot was good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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