Book Review:# 44: Kartikeya The Destroyer's Son: Anuja Chandramouli

(I got a free copy from the author in exchange of an honest review)

Synopsis:
Unravel the puzzle that is the mysterious and misunderstood son of Mahadeva—KARTIKEYA.
Kartikeya was born from the flames of a desperate need, an ardent desire, and an utmost devastation. In him was distilled the terrible powers of Mahadev, at its fiercest and most deadly. Although he fought many wars and slew many tyrants, yet his gifts toThumanity have always been those of mercy, compassion and love. What makes this possible?
For Kartikeya, there have always been more questions than answers. Did he really walk away from his family over a piece of fruit? What about the women in his life—was he the ravisher he is at times accused of being, or the protector of women? Was he the violent warrior who reveled in blood lust, or a gentle family man? What was his relationship with his more popular sibling, Ganesha?
Anuja Chandramouli weaves together myth, imagination and folklore while looking to answer these questions, and recreates for modern readers the story of one of the most enigmatic gods—Kartikeya.

My Review:
There are many books written about  Shiva, Parvati, their relationship and even their son Ganesha for that matter.

Few authors have attempted to write about Kartikeya, the elder son of Shiva. He rides a peacock. He's also known by the name of Muruga and Vel (Spear) is his weapon of choice.

 I guess we all know only this about him.This in essence is all what an average Indian knows about him.Anuja Chandramouli has attempted to write about one of the lesser known Gods in the Indian Pantheon and I must say I am impressed by the research and groundwork the author has done to write this book.


Fiction or fact is debatable and depends on your perspective but it felt good...
The characters introduce themselves and help the reader become a part of the story.A good insight in Kartikeya's story

Lots of witty dialogues and repartee. Incidents are narrated to a detail which makes you marvel and at points gives you goosebumps. The author surely knows how to keep the mythological story interesting.

Also Indra is shown in a different light, as in hungry for power and self centered.

Very few authors have this caliber to write and entertain as well as share a story from mythology in a language we understand and relate to. For me a few highlights are a talking peacock; Chitra. The relation between Shiva and Ganga and the way these stories are interlocked.

I loved her this piece of work and would recommend you all to read this mythological fiction. Keep up the awesome work Anuja.