In the Shadows of the Flames | Book Review
Review of Rupsa Roy's book - In the Shadows of the Flames
.png)
“In the
Shadow of the Flames”, is set between the years 1828 and 1831 and attempts to
look at the period right before and after the Bengal Sati Regulation Act was
passed in 1829, which prohibited the burning of widows throughout India
thereafter. It is the first installment of an intended trilogy - the subsequent
installments dealing with the issues of child marriage and widow remarriage in
India.
The readers will be exploring the world of early nineteenth-century Bengal,
through the eyes of Mrinalini- or Moni, as she is lovingly addressed by all-
and Krishnendu, the protagonists. Set in the fictional village of Shashipur and
the city of Calcutta, the plot concerns the upheavals caused in the society
brought about by the ideas proposed by radical social reformers in the wake of
the Bengal Renaissance, which forms the backdrop of Krishnendu and Moni’s
forbidden love.
Book Review #8 of 2025
When I began
reading this book, I expected a typical narrative, but it completely altered my
expectations and left a deep impact.
The story
delves into the inhumane practice of Sati, a ritual where countless women were
forced to burn alive on their husbands' funeral pyres.
The author
brilliantly captures the horrors of this dark tradition while weaving in
historical events surrounding the Sati Abolition Act. The narrative brings to
light the struggles of women trapped in this practice, showing how they were
often coerced into it by societal pressures, even when their fathers, brothers,
or sons opposed it. It is both a tribute to the innocent lives lost and a stark
reflection of the cultural and societal dynamics of rural Bengal during that
time.
At the heart
of the story is Moni, a young, naive girl whose transformation into the strong
and resilient Rani Maa is nothing short of remarkable. Her fears, internal
conflicts, and the various upheavals of her life are portrayed with such depth
that her journey feels deeply personal and inspiring. Her relationship with
Krishnendu is a beautifully layered element of the story, showcasing their
intertwined fates amidst societal constraints.
Supporting characters like Jagmohini, the Matriarch,
wise and compassionate mother-in-law who guides Moni through the complexities
of family and household management, and Ghetu, whose innocent chatter and
carefree spirit steal your heart, add a touch of warmth and realism to the
narrative.
While the
prologue initially felt disconnected, the story gradually aligned, and by the
tenth chapter, the pieces fell into place in a way that was both heartbreaking
and unforgettable. The ending left me wishing for a more hopeful resolution,
yet it stayed true to the emotional and cultural depth of the tale.
The writing style is exceptional, blending history with storytelling in a way that feels engaging and immersive, rather than like reading a history textbook. The vivid descriptions bring every scene to life, making it feel as if the events are unfolding right before your eyes. The author also paints a detailed picture of Bengali traditions, culture, and cuisine, which adds another layer of richness to the story.
It was truly
insightful to learn about the significant efforts and contributions of the
Brahmo Samaj in driving this monumental change. Their collective actions, no
matter how small, played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the
abolition.
Despite its
considerable length, the book’s fast-paced narrative, clear language, and
gripping storytelling make it an effortless read—I was so engrossed that I
finished it in just two days.
For those who love historical fiction, cultural exploration, and narratives with emotional depth, this book is a must-read. It beautifully portrays innocent characters navigating the oppressive grip of superstitions and rural customs, leaving readers both moved and enlightened. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and profoundly impactful read.
With a love for words that runs deep, Rupsa has crafted countless articles and blogs across the digital landscape. But beyond the screen, there's a deeper calling—literature, history and mythology.
A lover of rich narratives and untold stories, Rupsa's fascination with the past led to the publication of a historical novel that captures the heart of a forgotten era. Now, with one book on the shelves and many more on the horizon, Rupsa dreams of weaving together more tales that blend history with fiction.
When not writing, Rupsa has an eye
for the world around her, and dreams of traveling the world someday. Street
photography is her secret passion, capturing the fleeting moments and vibrant
stories of everyday life. Whether it's the perfect shot of a bustling market or
the quiet solitude of a rainy street, Rupsa finds beauty in the chaos and calm
of city life.
********************
This review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program.
Until the next post...
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
Comments
Post a Comment