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The Portrait of a Secret: A Novel Inspired by True Events
Senior IAS officer Kamal learns of the theft of two paintings worth Rs 400 crore from an agricultural research centre of the Indian government. At nearly the same time, India's chief of intelligence learns of an impending nuclear strike by a terror group from his high-ranking mole in the ISI.
Their worlds collide as Kamal races to unravel the theft and recover the paintings, and the intelligence chief comes to realize that the sale of the paintings will fund the terror strike. As they frantically work to prevent the sale, the paintings reveal a secret buried in the history of Indian cinema and the fires of Partition, which will forever alter global geopolitical equations.
With everything at stake, Indian intelligence battles the ISI and the CIA for control over the secret with every resource at its disposal, until one man decides the fate of the world.
Their worlds collide as Kamal races to unravel the theft and recover the paintings, and the intelligence chief comes to realize that the sale of the paintings will fund the terror strike. As they frantically work to prevent the sale, the paintings reveal a secret buried in the history of Indian cinema and the fires of Partition, which will forever alter global geopolitical equations.
With everything at stake, Indian intelligence battles the ISI and the CIA for control over the secret with every resource at its disposal, until one man decides the fate of the world.
296 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2023
21 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Tarun Mehrishi
2 books1 followerA trained lawyer who spent less years practicing law than studying it, before becoming a sports marketing professional, who loved his job for a decade.
Finally found my calling as a writer with my first book 'The Portrait of a Secret' and support my passion through my own venture in the electric vehicles space.
Finally found my calling as a writer with my first book 'The Portrait of a Secret' and support my passion through my own venture in the electric vehicles space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 24, 2023
Two most notable paintings hidden from the world and worth rupees 400 crores stolen from an agricultural research centre in the middle of the night from the remote town of Kappar. Senior IAS officer Kamal learns about it but what boggles him the most is the knowledge that a great threat is looming over India, an impending nuclear strike by a terror group. But how is it related to the paintings? As Kamal's world collides with India's top echelons he understands this is bigger than what he thought. As the intelligence agencies took over with the guidance of Amitabh Mehta, the CI, they come across astonishing facts about one particular painting. What secrets does it hold? How the Indian intelligence officers will battle the ISI and CIA from taking control over the secret?
'The Portrait Of A Secret' is a spy, mystery thriller. It spans over different locations with different intelligence agencies operating on secret missions. The very idea of spy mysteries and conspiracy theories warms up my mood and naturally I expect a good and engaging story I can spend a day with. This book didn't disappoint me. At first the story is confusing with more than five plots running parallel but it kept me on the edge throughout the book. It's an unique blend of history, love, betrayal and patriotism, each coming together to make a beautiful work of fiction. When each plot converged into a single point it made sense and much more enjoyable. I don't want to divulge more on the plot as it would destroy the mystery surrounding it. Kudos to the author for coming up with an intricate yet equally wonderful character sketches. Every character of this book both good and bad has their own voice, their own story to tell. I personally liked the CI's story. I would have cherished the chemistry blooming between Roerich and Devika more but their story was short-lived.
Coming to the writing style, it's good and engaging. At first though I was sceptical as the story was slow and going nowhere but it took pace soon. It becomes more interesting as it nears the end. The suspense and slow thrill it creates is something I was looking for. Recommended to spy mystery lovers.
'The Portrait Of A Secret' is a spy, mystery thriller. It spans over different locations with different intelligence agencies operating on secret missions. The very idea of spy mysteries and conspiracy theories warms up my mood and naturally I expect a good and engaging story I can spend a day with. This book didn't disappoint me. At first the story is confusing with more than five plots running parallel but it kept me on the edge throughout the book. It's an unique blend of history, love, betrayal and patriotism, each coming together to make a beautiful work of fiction. When each plot converged into a single point it made sense and much more enjoyable. I don't want to divulge more on the plot as it would destroy the mystery surrounding it. Kudos to the author for coming up with an intricate yet equally wonderful character sketches. Every character of this book both good and bad has their own voice, their own story to tell. I personally liked the CI's story. I would have cherished the chemistry blooming between Roerich and Devika more but their story was short-lived.
Coming to the writing style, it's good and engaging. At first though I was sceptical as the story was slow and going nowhere but it took pace soon. It becomes more interesting as it nears the end. The suspense and slow thrill it creates is something I was looking for. Recommended to spy mystery lovers.
May 7, 2023
"The Portrait of a Secret" by Tarun Mehrishi is a captivating thriller that keeps the reader on edge from beginning to end. Set in the bustling city of Delhi, the story follows senior IAS officer Kamal as he investigates the theft of two paintings worth a whopping Rs 400 crore from an agricultural research center of the Indian government. However, his investigation takes a dangerous turn when he discovers that the paintings hold a secret that could change the course of history.
At the same time, India's chief of intelligence learns of an impending nuclear strike by a terror group through his high-ranking mole in the ISI. As Kamal and the intelligence chief race against time to prevent the sale of the stolen paintings, they find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes battle against the ISI and the CIA.
The narrative is well-paced, with the tension and suspense building up gradually. The character development is excellent, with the protagonist Kamal portrayed as a determined and intelligent officer who is willing to go to great lengths to uncover the truth. The other characters, including the intelligence chief, the terrorists, and the CIA agents, are equally well-developed and add depth to the story.
The author's writing style is descriptive and vivid, transporting the reader to the heart of Delhi and the intricacies of Indian politics and history. The revelation of the secret hidden within the paintings is both surprising and poignant, and adds a unique twist to the story.
I've also noticed that Mehrishi's writing style is clear and concise, making the book an easy and enjoyable read. The pacing is excellent, with the action and suspense building steadily throughout the book, leading to a thrilling and satisfying conclusion.
The author's extensive knowledge of Indian cinema and history is evident throughout the book, as the paintings reveal a secret buried in the fires of Partition and the rich heritage of Indian cinema. This adds an intriguing layer to the story and provides a unique perspective on global geopolitical equations.
My final Verdict on the book:
This is a well-written and engaging thriller that will keep readers hooked until the very end. It is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a gripping tale of espionage, politics, and history. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a must-read for fans of espionage and thriller novels. It is a well-crafted and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers pondering the intricacies of international politics and the power of art.
At the same time, India's chief of intelligence learns of an impending nuclear strike by a terror group through his high-ranking mole in the ISI. As Kamal and the intelligence chief race against time to prevent the sale of the stolen paintings, they find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes battle against the ISI and the CIA.
The narrative is well-paced, with the tension and suspense building up gradually. The character development is excellent, with the protagonist Kamal portrayed as a determined and intelligent officer who is willing to go to great lengths to uncover the truth. The other characters, including the intelligence chief, the terrorists, and the CIA agents, are equally well-developed and add depth to the story.
The author's writing style is descriptive and vivid, transporting the reader to the heart of Delhi and the intricacies of Indian politics and history. The revelation of the secret hidden within the paintings is both surprising and poignant, and adds a unique twist to the story.
I've also noticed that Mehrishi's writing style is clear and concise, making the book an easy and enjoyable read. The pacing is excellent, with the action and suspense building steadily throughout the book, leading to a thrilling and satisfying conclusion.
The author's extensive knowledge of Indian cinema and history is evident throughout the book, as the paintings reveal a secret buried in the fires of Partition and the rich heritage of Indian cinema. This adds an intriguing layer to the story and provides a unique perspective on global geopolitical equations.
My final Verdict on the book:
This is a well-written and engaging thriller that will keep readers hooked until the very end. It is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a gripping tale of espionage, politics, and history. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a must-read for fans of espionage and thriller novels. It is a well-crafted and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers pondering the intricacies of international politics and the power of art.
April 20, 2024
" I have two paintings that I would like to include in your auction on 10 March. I hope that wont be a problem?"
BOOK: The portrait of a Secret
AUTHOR: @tarunmehrishi
GENRE: #political #historicalfiction
RATING: 4.2
The political novel is centered on a small place called Kappar. There are few parallel stories that connect into one whole story; there is love, art, and terrorism, but the novel's core is always about patriotism. I usually don't read many political plots, but this was an enjoyable read. The love story between the painter Roerich and the superstar Devika, the friendship between director Asif, actor Shiva, and actress Devika, and the patriotism of Asif, Kamal, and Jiten. The detailed way in which the terrorism scheme is explained in the book is very intriguing. The details about old Kappar and new Kappar are outlined distinctively. The lives of different classes of people are vividly portrayed. The value of art and the artist, as seen through the eyes of the author, is elegantly shown. Overall, I feel the author has really paid attention to the details, and there is no doubt about that as he is a lawyer also. The patriot in me was thrilled with the climax scenarios. I would want to explain a little more, but I don't want spoilers to be in the review.#suggested
BOOK: The portrait of a Secret
AUTHOR: @tarunmehrishi
GENRE: #political #historicalfiction
RATING: 4.2
The political novel is centered on a small place called Kappar. There are few parallel stories that connect into one whole story; there is love, art, and terrorism, but the novel's core is always about patriotism. I usually don't read many political plots, but this was an enjoyable read. The love story between the painter Roerich and the superstar Devika, the friendship between director Asif, actor Shiva, and actress Devika, and the patriotism of Asif, Kamal, and Jiten. The detailed way in which the terrorism scheme is explained in the book is very intriguing. The details about old Kappar and new Kappar are outlined distinctively. The lives of different classes of people are vividly portrayed. The value of art and the artist, as seen through the eyes of the author, is elegantly shown. Overall, I feel the author has really paid attention to the details, and there is no doubt about that as he is a lawyer also. The patriot in me was thrilled with the climax scenarios. I would want to explain a little more, but I don't want spoilers to be in the review.#suggested
June 17, 2023
If you like, books 📚inspired by true event/s &/or facts then you need to definitely add this to your tbr. It has immense potential for being a hit if a screen adaptation is made.
Do you read the dedication? I always do & I appreciate the one here especially when the author mentions, the 'innocence' of his son inspires him each day. Innocence in children is precious & i feel sad to see it evaporating from the present generation gradually.
I also never miss the author's note & the acknowledgements, there's so much to learn & enjoy in there.
This book is inspired by & based on the fact of the theft of two paintings. In such stories, the author's ability to weave fact with fiction in such a way that it's difficult to distinguish between the two, I worth appreciating. Also the author is onto his next project, another book (this is his debut) & I just can't wait to know what it's about because I genuinely enjoyed this one, in every respect.
What happens when an honest man is forced to betray his country? A small step launches a domino effect, without anyone noticing the repercussions, which are dormant for at least four decades. The vocabulary used in the writing is fabulous & needed annotating. The writing style is engrossing, the chapters are small, there is constant changing of timelines & it takes effort to keep a grasp on the continuous happening of events. Each chapter ends on a captivating note forcing the reader to read the next chapter. Our favorite words " just one more chapter" actually holds good here.
The story takes into account a handful of events, is weaved around them like Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, the Tsar & how a family is uprooted who settles in India, how they form relations with the Kashmir Raja Jai Kishen Singh & so on. We moved from Russia to India, to Bangladesh, to Pakistan and there's unrest, political games, secrets, theft & murders, mistakes, assassins & traps. It's an edge of seat thriller literally. Events like the annexation of Kashmir, Tashkent etc take us back to the emotional trauma & period. We definitely have ISI & RAW in the story & an impending terror strike.
The icing on the cake is how the events happening decades back cumulate to causing a ruckus years later. I loved the prologue & especially the epilogue & recommend not to miss it.
This copy is going to stay with me till the plot fades from my memory & I can re read it. I immensely enjoyed the weaving of words in this action packed thriller.
____
Senior IAS officer Kamal learns of the theft of two paintings worth Rs 400 crore from an agricultural research centre of the Indian government. At nearly the same time, India's chief of intelligence learns of an impending nuclear strike by a terror group from his high-ranking mole in the ISI.
Their worlds collide as Kamal races to unravel the theft and recover the paintings, and the intelligence chief comes to realize that the sale of the paintings will fund the terror strike. As they frantically work to prevent the sale, the paintings reveal a secret buried in the history of Indian cinema and the fires of Partition, which will forever alter global geopolitical equations.
With everything at stake, Indian intelligence battles the ISI and the CIA for control over the secret with every resource at its disposal, until one man decides the fate of the world.
Do you read the dedication? I always do & I appreciate the one here especially when the author mentions, the 'innocence' of his son inspires him each day. Innocence in children is precious & i feel sad to see it evaporating from the present generation gradually.
I also never miss the author's note & the acknowledgements, there's so much to learn & enjoy in there.
This book is inspired by & based on the fact of the theft of two paintings. In such stories, the author's ability to weave fact with fiction in such a way that it's difficult to distinguish between the two, I worth appreciating. Also the author is onto his next project, another book (this is his debut) & I just can't wait to know what it's about because I genuinely enjoyed this one, in every respect.
What happens when an honest man is forced to betray his country? A small step launches a domino effect, without anyone noticing the repercussions, which are dormant for at least four decades. The vocabulary used in the writing is fabulous & needed annotating. The writing style is engrossing, the chapters are small, there is constant changing of timelines & it takes effort to keep a grasp on the continuous happening of events. Each chapter ends on a captivating note forcing the reader to read the next chapter. Our favorite words " just one more chapter" actually holds good here.
The story takes into account a handful of events, is weaved around them like Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, the Tsar & how a family is uprooted who settles in India, how they form relations with the Kashmir Raja Jai Kishen Singh & so on. We moved from Russia to India, to Bangladesh, to Pakistan and there's unrest, political games, secrets, theft & murders, mistakes, assassins & traps. It's an edge of seat thriller literally. Events like the annexation of Kashmir, Tashkent etc take us back to the emotional trauma & period. We definitely have ISI & RAW in the story & an impending terror strike.
The icing on the cake is how the events happening decades back cumulate to causing a ruckus years later. I loved the prologue & especially the epilogue & recommend not to miss it.
This copy is going to stay with me till the plot fades from my memory & I can re read it. I immensely enjoyed the weaving of words in this action packed thriller.
____
Senior IAS officer Kamal learns of the theft of two paintings worth Rs 400 crore from an agricultural research centre of the Indian government. At nearly the same time, India's chief of intelligence learns of an impending nuclear strike by a terror group from his high-ranking mole in the ISI.
Their worlds collide as Kamal races to unravel the theft and recover the paintings, and the intelligence chief comes to realize that the sale of the paintings will fund the terror strike. As they frantically work to prevent the sale, the paintings reveal a secret buried in the history of Indian cinema and the fires of Partition, which will forever alter global geopolitical equations.
With everything at stake, Indian intelligence battles the ISI and the CIA for control over the secret with every resource at its disposal, until one man decides the fate of the world.
June 30, 2025
'The Portrait of a Secret' is a thriller magnificently presented to keep you glued to the edge of your seat. Mehrishi's narration is like a rollercoaster ride-almighty unpredictable, exhilarating, and utterly addictive. With its special blend of history, espionage, and romance, this book will keep you gasping for air on the wild ride.
The author is spectacular with meticulous attention, merging real-life incidents perfectly into the fiction. The characters jump off the page, with mannerisms and quirks that make them feel like familiar friends. The story unfolds over decades-from the intrigues of Bolsheviks in Russia to the art dealers and CIA operatives in the here and now.
What differentiates histories is the fine blend between fact and fiction. Mehrishi's writing flows like a river, making it quite difficult to tell apart the real from the imagined. The result is an entertaining and informative story that will leave you with a great-found respect for the world of espionage and art theft. Trust me; this is not one to let slip through your fingers.
The author is spectacular with meticulous attention, merging real-life incidents perfectly into the fiction. The characters jump off the page, with mannerisms and quirks that make them feel like familiar friends. The story unfolds over decades-from the intrigues of Bolsheviks in Russia to the art dealers and CIA operatives in the here and now.
What differentiates histories is the fine blend between fact and fiction. Mehrishi's writing flows like a river, making it quite difficult to tell apart the real from the imagined. The result is an entertaining and informative story that will leave you with a great-found respect for the world of espionage and art theft. Trust me; this is not one to let slip through your fingers.
March 4, 2024
The book starts like a period novel as it opens with the events of the Russian Revolution. But soon enough things start falling into place. Unrelated events narrated parallelly across geographical locations at various periods start making sense. Tarun has woven a gripping, fast-paced story around a true historical event. Two paintings by Nicholas Roerich were stolen from the library of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute. Around this true incident, Tarun spins a spy thriller involving the Indian & Pakistani Intelligence establishments through a maze of other historical events like the accession of Kashmir, the death of the Indian Prime Minister in Tashkent, Bangladesh liberation, Bollywood celebrities, Pakistan’s ISI subversive activities to destabilize India, etc. The story appears plausible, and you feel nice when a supposedly lethargic and apathetic Indian bureaucracy responds with great agility to the unfolding events. Tarun managed to maintain a tight plot with a nonlinear storyline divided into numerous short chapters. True to the genre of thrillers, Tarun keeps a surprise up his sleeve right up to the end.
A real page-turner!
A real page-turner!
June 14, 2023
As they say you have books for every occasion. One genre which perfectly fits this saying is psychological thrillers. They transport you to a different world altogether and irrespective of your current focus level , a good well written thriller will always bind your attention.
The story begins with an IAS officer Kamal investigating the theft of two paintings worth crores. By nature he is a pedantic soul with a great eye for details and he doesn't want to leave any stone unturned in nabbing the culprits. On the other hand we have another event going on and its high time for Kamal to prevent the sale of paintings. Will he be able to turn the table and succeed in his endeavours ? Grab the book to find out.
The story is crafted really well and the fact that it is based on reality only adds a more relatable factor to it. Every incident has been explained in a way that it raises the appetite in the reader's brain to continue reading the work . The characterisation is top notch and premise is fascinating. The title is meaningful as well and the author's command on history and Bhatiya cinema is spellbinding.
All in all a wonderful work with elements of non fiction.
The story begins with an IAS officer Kamal investigating the theft of two paintings worth crores. By nature he is a pedantic soul with a great eye for details and he doesn't want to leave any stone unturned in nabbing the culprits. On the other hand we have another event going on and its high time for Kamal to prevent the sale of paintings. Will he be able to turn the table and succeed in his endeavours ? Grab the book to find out.
The story is crafted really well and the fact that it is based on reality only adds a more relatable factor to it. Every incident has been explained in a way that it raises the appetite in the reader's brain to continue reading the work . The characterisation is top notch and premise is fascinating. The title is meaningful as well and the author's command on history and Bhatiya cinema is spellbinding.
All in all a wonderful work with elements of non fiction.
June 23, 2025
It’s perfect gripping tale and it’s really unbelievable that it’s just a fictional work and not true events. Must read novel
December 6, 2025
ABSOLUTELY LOVEEDDD THE TWISTS! the initial part of the book was a little mundane in terms of emotions, it felt like a journal dumped with all the details of an investigation BUT every single dot connects so well towards the end!
October 24, 2024
The Portrait of Secret is a gripping blend of espionage, art theft, and geopolitical intrigue.
Why You Should Read This Book
The Portrait of Secret is a gripping blend of espionage, art theft, and geopolitical intrigue. With its fast-paced narrative and suspenseful plot twists, this novel is perfect for readers looking for a thrilling story that keeps them on the edge of their seat from start to finish. Plus, it's soon to be a feature film, making this the perfect time to dive into the book before seeing it on the big screen!
Plot Overview
Set against the backdrop of contemporary India, the novel follows Amitabh, India's Chief of Intelligence, as he faces a looming nuclear threat. Concurrently, IAS officer Kamal investigates the theft of two priceless paintings. As their paths intersect, they uncover a long-buried secret that has significant global implications. The escalating tension as various intelligence agencies vie for control of this secret makes for a riveting read.
Characters
Amitabh: The seasoned Chief of Intelligence grappling with his loyalty to his country and personal survival.
Kamal: A dedicated IAS officer whose investigation reveals deeper connections to India's tumultuous history.
Supporting Characters: A diverse cast from various intelligence agencies adds depth and intrigue to the story.
Writing Style
Tarun Mehrishi's writing is engaging and immersive, skillfully blending suspense and historical facts. The prose is well-crafted, ensuring that readers are captivated from the first page to the last.
Narration
The narrative unfolds at a brisk pace, filled with tension and suspense. Mehrishi expertly alternates between different perspectives and timelines, enriching the plot and providing a comprehensive view of the complex story. The character development, particularly of Kamal, is strong and relatable.
Why You Should Read This Book
The Portrait of Secret is a gripping blend of espionage, art theft, and geopolitical intrigue. With its fast-paced narrative and suspenseful plot twists, this novel is perfect for readers looking for a thrilling story that keeps them on the edge of their seat from start to finish. Plus, it's soon to be a feature film, making this the perfect time to dive into the book before seeing it on the big screen!
Plot Overview
Set against the backdrop of contemporary India, the novel follows Amitabh, India's Chief of Intelligence, as he faces a looming nuclear threat. Concurrently, IAS officer Kamal investigates the theft of two priceless paintings. As their paths intersect, they uncover a long-buried secret that has significant global implications. The escalating tension as various intelligence agencies vie for control of this secret makes for a riveting read.
Characters
Amitabh: The seasoned Chief of Intelligence grappling with his loyalty to his country and personal survival.
Kamal: A dedicated IAS officer whose investigation reveals deeper connections to India's tumultuous history.
Supporting Characters: A diverse cast from various intelligence agencies adds depth and intrigue to the story.
Writing Style
Tarun Mehrishi's writing is engaging and immersive, skillfully blending suspense and historical facts. The prose is well-crafted, ensuring that readers are captivated from the first page to the last.
Narration
The narrative unfolds at a brisk pace, filled with tension and suspense. Mehrishi expertly alternates between different perspectives and timelines, enriching the plot and providing a comprehensive view of the complex story. The character development, particularly of Kamal, is strong and relatable.
May 7, 2025
"Portrait of a Secret" by Tarun Mehrishi is an intriguing novel that explores the impact of hidden truths on people's lives. The story focuses on characters who are each hiding something significant, and as their secrets come to light, their relationships and self-understanding are tested.
Through the characters' struggles and revelations, the book invites readers to think about the masks they wear and the personal costs of keeping secrets. It's a thoughtful read that sticks with you long after you've finished it. I personally appreciated how the characters' hidden truths unfold, making me think about the secrets in my own life. Overall, it was a great experience and I'm glad I read it.
Thank you @tarunmehrishi for sharing this book with me.
Cannot wait to read your works in the future
Through the characters' struggles and revelations, the book invites readers to think about the masks they wear and the personal costs of keeping secrets. It's a thoughtful read that sticks with you long after you've finished it. I personally appreciated how the characters' hidden truths unfold, making me think about the secrets in my own life. Overall, it was a great experience and I'm glad I read it.
Thank you @tarunmehrishi for sharing this book with me.
Cannot wait to read your works in the future
May 16, 2024
A pretty neat book!
The story is constructed in a very efficient manner. There isn't a single wasted word in the entire book. It's is a spy mystery novel in essence. There are parallel events happening all across the timeline which are tied together into coherence in the end. I love that kind of storytelling.
There are very few dialogues and it's a matter of factly way of narration that's been adopted. Frankly, it doesn't work everywhere but is exactly right for this story. There are numerous chapters and each chapter is no longer than a few pages, it kept me going as I had the constant push after completing each chapter like yes, I'm getting somewhere.
I really enjoyed reading it.
The story is constructed in a very efficient manner. There isn't a single wasted word in the entire book. It's is a spy mystery novel in essence. There are parallel events happening all across the timeline which are tied together into coherence in the end. I love that kind of storytelling.
There are very few dialogues and it's a matter of factly way of narration that's been adopted. Frankly, it doesn't work everywhere but is exactly right for this story. There are numerous chapters and each chapter is no longer than a few pages, it kept me going as I had the constant push after completing each chapter like yes, I'm getting somewhere.
I really enjoyed reading it.
May 26, 2024
It takes a few chapters to understand the flow of the story as it quickly flits between points of view on different timelines, but it gets interesting very soon. The story picks up on an actual incident of stolen paintings but fabricates the rest of it. It is an interesting premise, and towards the end, the game gets quite riveting as the paintings find their way back to the Indian Govt, and a big terrorist plot gets foiled because of it.
For those who like spy thrillers and political intrigue, this is one of the better ones in the Indian context.
For those who like spy thrillers and political intrigue, this is one of the better ones in the Indian context.
November 28, 2024
Gripping. A must read .Tarun is the new rockstar of Indian fiction .
December 20, 2024
4.5/5
This one was damn interesting! It started off a bit slow but when it picked up pace, I couldn't put it down. We definitely need more Indian Espionage novels! They hit differently for sure.
This one was damn interesting! It started off a bit slow but when it picked up pace, I couldn't put it down. We definitely need more Indian Espionage novels! They hit differently for sure.
May 15, 2023
The complex interplay between espionage, history, and geopolitics has been a recurring theme in literature worldwide, spanning different genres, including thrillers, spy novels, and historical fiction. This theme explores how covert activities and intelligence operations shape the political landscape and international relations of different countries. Writers use this theme to highlight the intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles between nations and to provide insights into the real-life impact of historical events on contemporary geopolitical dynamics. By weaving together espionage, history, and geopolitics, writers create captivating and thought-provoking stories that offer readers a glimpse into the complex world of international relations and the intricate ways in which intelligence agencies operate to protect their countries interests.
The Portrait of a Secret by Tarun Mehrishi is a thrilling tale of espionage and intrigue that will keep readers at the edge of their seats. The story follows the theft of two paintings by the renowned Russian painter, Roerich, from the Indian Agricultural Research Centre, which ultimately lands up at Sotheby's for auction. Kamal, a senior IAS officer, is entrusted with the task of recovering the stolen paintings. Meanwhile, the story also explores a subplot revolving around the planning of terrorist attacks by Jaish. Kamal is a dedicated officer who goes to great lengths to complete his mission. As he delves deeper into the case, he stumbles upon a buried secret related to Indian cinema and the Partition, which leads him on a perilous journey that changes the global geopolitical scenario forever.
The author of The Portrait of a Secret, Tarun Mehrishi, skillfully uses evocative prose to transport readers to various locations in which the story unfolds. The palpable tension in the narrative makes readers feel as though they are right beside Kamal as he races against time to prevent the sale of the stolen paintings and stop the planned terrorist attack. The plot is tightly woven, and the fast-paced narrative is filled with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the end. The book also features several well-crafted subplots and characters that complement the main plot, making it a compelling read. The characters are well-developed, and their strengths and weaknesses are fleshed out in great detail, making them believable and relatable to readers.
In conclusion, " The Portrait of a Secret" is a thrilling and well-crafted novel that seamlessly blends espionage, history, and geopolitics. The author's impressive attention to detail and extensive research makes the story highly immersive. This book is a must-read for fans of thrillers and espionage novels. I highly recommend it.
The Portrait of a Secret by Tarun Mehrishi is a thrilling tale of espionage and intrigue that will keep readers at the edge of their seats. The story follows the theft of two paintings by the renowned Russian painter, Roerich, from the Indian Agricultural Research Centre, which ultimately lands up at Sotheby's for auction. Kamal, a senior IAS officer, is entrusted with the task of recovering the stolen paintings. Meanwhile, the story also explores a subplot revolving around the planning of terrorist attacks by Jaish. Kamal is a dedicated officer who goes to great lengths to complete his mission. As he delves deeper into the case, he stumbles upon a buried secret related to Indian cinema and the Partition, which leads him on a perilous journey that changes the global geopolitical scenario forever.
The author of The Portrait of a Secret, Tarun Mehrishi, skillfully uses evocative prose to transport readers to various locations in which the story unfolds. The palpable tension in the narrative makes readers feel as though they are right beside Kamal as he races against time to prevent the sale of the stolen paintings and stop the planned terrorist attack. The plot is tightly woven, and the fast-paced narrative is filled with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the end. The book also features several well-crafted subplots and characters that complement the main plot, making it a compelling read. The characters are well-developed, and their strengths and weaknesses are fleshed out in great detail, making them believable and relatable to readers.
In conclusion, " The Portrait of a Secret" is a thrilling and well-crafted novel that seamlessly blends espionage, history, and geopolitics. The author's impressive attention to detail and extensive research makes the story highly immersive. This book is a must-read for fans of thrillers and espionage novels. I highly recommend it.
June 9, 2023
Tarun Mehrishi has stunned me with this book; if anything, this one is explosive as expected! The plot has been so suspenseful and gripping.
The Portrait of a Secret by Tarun Mehrishi is not only a thrilling tale of suspense and intrigue but also raises thought-provoking questions about the intricate interplay between crime, art, and terrorism. It explores themes of morality, the power of art, and the lengths individuals are willing to go to for personal gain or ideological motives.
The Portrait of a Secret takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the shadowy realms of art theft and terrorism. Set against the backdrop of the theft of two priceless paintings by the renowned Russian painter Roerich, this gripping story intertwines the efforts of Kamal, a senior IAS officer, to recover the stolen artwork, while also delving into a sub-plot focused on the planning of terrorists attacks by the notorious Jaish organization.
As Kamal delves deeper into the investigation, the story takes an unexpected turn with the introduction of the sub-plot involving Jaish and their sinister plans. This subplot adds a layer of complexity and raises the stakes significantly, forcing Kamal to confront a web of deceit and danger that extends far beyond the realm of art theft.
The tone of the book was completely different, and I loved it.
Those final scenes were as tense as they come, so unpredictable and unnerving. It was impossible to not place yourself in Kamal’s shoes, trying to process what it would feel like to be in his position, not only facing the most dangerous of all things but also keeping the nation safe.
Mehrishi ended the story with a bang and created an unforgettable scenario filled with uncertainty and fast-paced action, and I loved seeing all the characters I loved working together. I especially enjoyed their dialogue with the opposition which felt so chilling, so terrifying! Those final few pages made me tear up, but it was the best ending and it left me so desperate for more.
After finishing the book, I had to sit in silence for a while to process everything Kamal had gone through – what a journey!
I do not doubt that the author’s next project will be spectacular, no matter what it is.
This author quickly became one of my favorite thriller writers, and I loved this book and his exceptional writing; his fast-paced plots are perfectly mapped with brilliant twists, and his characters are wonderfully developed with backstories that are genuinely interesting to explore.
I loved how each interrogation, clue, and snippet of information weaved together like perfectly fitting puzzle pieces. I took a few moments to appreciate the thought and problem-solving that the author must have gone through. It was very impressive!
The Portrait of a Secret by Tarun Mehrishi is not only a thrilling tale of suspense and intrigue but also raises thought-provoking questions about the intricate interplay between crime, art, and terrorism. It explores themes of morality, the power of art, and the lengths individuals are willing to go to for personal gain or ideological motives.
The Portrait of a Secret takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the shadowy realms of art theft and terrorism. Set against the backdrop of the theft of two priceless paintings by the renowned Russian painter Roerich, this gripping story intertwines the efforts of Kamal, a senior IAS officer, to recover the stolen artwork, while also delving into a sub-plot focused on the planning of terrorists attacks by the notorious Jaish organization.
As Kamal delves deeper into the investigation, the story takes an unexpected turn with the introduction of the sub-plot involving Jaish and their sinister plans. This subplot adds a layer of complexity and raises the stakes significantly, forcing Kamal to confront a web of deceit and danger that extends far beyond the realm of art theft.
The tone of the book was completely different, and I loved it.
Those final scenes were as tense as they come, so unpredictable and unnerving. It was impossible to not place yourself in Kamal’s shoes, trying to process what it would feel like to be in his position, not only facing the most dangerous of all things but also keeping the nation safe.
Mehrishi ended the story with a bang and created an unforgettable scenario filled with uncertainty and fast-paced action, and I loved seeing all the characters I loved working together. I especially enjoyed their dialogue with the opposition which felt so chilling, so terrifying! Those final few pages made me tear up, but it was the best ending and it left me so desperate for more.
After finishing the book, I had to sit in silence for a while to process everything Kamal had gone through – what a journey!
I do not doubt that the author’s next project will be spectacular, no matter what it is.
This author quickly became one of my favorite thriller writers, and I loved this book and his exceptional writing; his fast-paced plots are perfectly mapped with brilliant twists, and his characters are wonderfully developed with backstories that are genuinely interesting to explore.
I loved how each interrogation, clue, and snippet of information weaved together like perfectly fitting puzzle pieces. I took a few moments to appreciate the thought and problem-solving that the author must have gone through. It was very impressive!
May 26, 2023
4.5 stars out of 5
It has been an unfortunately long while since I read an Indian historical fiction – cum – spy thriller. The portrait of a secret is a book that deserves a second and a third reading, and, I daresay, a #Netflix mini series at some point.
Author Tarun Mehrishi has crafted an excellent work of fiction based loosely on real entities and historic (and some not so historical) events.
The Book follows the perpetual tug of war between the Indian intelligence and law enforcement agencies and Pakistan’s intelligence agency and military regime. But the story is far broader in its base, chronicling events spanning over a century and sprawling over India, Pakistan, America, Russia / Soviet Union, Bangladesh and England.
Though not unheard of, this author’s style of non linear storytelling is refreshingly intriguing. At times following the narrative through decades and continents is difficult, but the story deserves the attention needed to follow along. The characters are well established, so even when the identities of double agents or triple agents is hidden at the beginning, it is all tied up well when all parties converge in a compelling and chilling convergence.
The story follows two famous and insanely expensive paintings by Svetoslav Roerich, the real life, well known Russian painter.
As the paintings pass from hand to hand as a gift, stolen artefacts, items for auction and national treasures, the story surrounding them stretches in the geopolitical landscape across the globe in a display of the war between intelligence community and terrorists. The story’s characters have personalities and stories of their own which lends their arcs motivations a tangible, grounded-in-reality-yet-larger-than-life feel.
There is only one aspect that comes to mind which, I think, is a weak link in the otherwise perfect story: the master plan of the terrorists which incites the events in the story is a plan too easy to foil. So much so that the mastermind executing the plan had registered his doubts about it. As it stands, this aspect makes few of the events in the climax quite predictable. But this does not take away the fact that the story is extremely well crafted and reading it is a treat even with a small element of predictability.
There’s no moral high ground in the spy world – that should be the tag line of this story, and it is one of the themes the novel conforms to throughout its 288 pages.
This is a must read historical thriller fiction.
It has been an unfortunately long while since I read an Indian historical fiction – cum – spy thriller. The portrait of a secret is a book that deserves a second and a third reading, and, I daresay, a #Netflix mini series at some point.
Author Tarun Mehrishi has crafted an excellent work of fiction based loosely on real entities and historic (and some not so historical) events.
The Book follows the perpetual tug of war between the Indian intelligence and law enforcement agencies and Pakistan’s intelligence agency and military regime. But the story is far broader in its base, chronicling events spanning over a century and sprawling over India, Pakistan, America, Russia / Soviet Union, Bangladesh and England.
Though not unheard of, this author’s style of non linear storytelling is refreshingly intriguing. At times following the narrative through decades and continents is difficult, but the story deserves the attention needed to follow along. The characters are well established, so even when the identities of double agents or triple agents is hidden at the beginning, it is all tied up well when all parties converge in a compelling and chilling convergence.
The story follows two famous and insanely expensive paintings by Svetoslav Roerich, the real life, well known Russian painter.
As the paintings pass from hand to hand as a gift, stolen artefacts, items for auction and national treasures, the story surrounding them stretches in the geopolitical landscape across the globe in a display of the war between intelligence community and terrorists. The story’s characters have personalities and stories of their own which lends their arcs motivations a tangible, grounded-in-reality-yet-larger-than-life feel.
There is only one aspect that comes to mind which, I think, is a weak link in the otherwise perfect story: the master plan of the terrorists which incites the events in the story is a plan too easy to foil. So much so that the mastermind executing the plan had registered his doubts about it. As it stands, this aspect makes few of the events in the climax quite predictable. But this does not take away the fact that the story is extremely well crafted and reading it is a treat even with a small element of predictability.
There’s no moral high ground in the spy world – that should be the tag line of this story, and it is one of the themes the novel conforms to throughout its 288 pages.
This is a must read historical thriller fiction.
June 11, 2023
This spellbinding historical fiction and spy thriller intricately entwines real-life events and figures from Indian history with a gripping fictional narrative. Unfolding over a span of more than a century and traversing diverse countries and continents, the story revolves around the audacious theft of two priceless paintings by renowned Russian artist Nicholas Roerich, with an astonishing value of 400 crores. However, there is more to these stolen artworks than meets the eye, as they hold a clandestine secret connected to the nation's history, rendering their recovery of paramount importance to safeguard the country from an impending disaster.
As the plot unfolds, Senior IAS officer Kamal emerges as the central protagonist, racing against the clock to retrieve the stolen paintings and thwart the sinister plans of a notorious terror group planning a catastrophic nuclear attack. Seamlessly interwoven into the narrative are significant historical events, including the tumultuous Partition during India's fight for independence and the enigmatic demise of a Prime Minister on foreign soil. The author skillfully blends these factual elements with their own imaginative twists, introducing a beloved heroine from Indian cinema and seamlessly integrating her story into the larger plot.
While the initial pacing of the story may be deliberate, it progressively gains momentum as the main characters take shape and their objectives come into focus. Once established, readers will be fully engrossed in the electrifying sequences that unfurl. The author's evident expertise and meticulous research shine through, vividly depicting distinct plotlines and transporting readers across time and continents.
Enthusiasts of the thriller genre are wholeheartedly recommended to embark on this extraordinary journey. Prepare to be enthralled as you navigate a tapestry of suspense, espionage, and historical intrigue. With its rich blend of fact and fiction, this novel demands your undivided attention and guarantees a gripping reading experience.
For more such detailed reviews, check out my bookstagram: www.instagram.com/mystic_tales_tintin
As the plot unfolds, Senior IAS officer Kamal emerges as the central protagonist, racing against the clock to retrieve the stolen paintings and thwart the sinister plans of a notorious terror group planning a catastrophic nuclear attack. Seamlessly interwoven into the narrative are significant historical events, including the tumultuous Partition during India's fight for independence and the enigmatic demise of a Prime Minister on foreign soil. The author skillfully blends these factual elements with their own imaginative twists, introducing a beloved heroine from Indian cinema and seamlessly integrating her story into the larger plot.
While the initial pacing of the story may be deliberate, it progressively gains momentum as the main characters take shape and their objectives come into focus. Once established, readers will be fully engrossed in the electrifying sequences that unfurl. The author's evident expertise and meticulous research shine through, vividly depicting distinct plotlines and transporting readers across time and continents.
Enthusiasts of the thriller genre are wholeheartedly recommended to embark on this extraordinary journey. Prepare to be enthralled as you navigate a tapestry of suspense, espionage, and historical intrigue. With its rich blend of fact and fiction, this novel demands your undivided attention and guarantees a gripping reading experience.
For more such detailed reviews, check out my bookstagram: www.instagram.com/mystic_tales_tintin
May 16, 2023
⏭️⏭️Which book or story do you think can make the best screen adaptation?
📍The Portrait of a Secret is a thrilling and capricious ride mixed with political aspects.
📍The story revolves around the theft of two beautiful paintings, which are from the collection of the greatest painter, Roerich :
Valley of flowers
Silent night
📍 From ICAR (the Indian Agricultural Research Centre), and the shocking thing is that nobody has any idea about it, and it ended up at Sotheby's Auction by someone named Abbas Ali.
📍 Kamal IAS officer is given charge to sort out this case by any chance because if the ICAR owned it and it has been stolen, it is a question of national security.
📍On the other hand, it also gives highlights of the terrorist attacks and activities of Jaish.
📍Who actually owns the painting? Abbas Ali or ICAR the painting? Abbas Ali or ICAR? How did it never get noticed by anyone about stolen paintings? Will Kamal be able to solve the case?
📍I found the plot of the story invigorating and fast-paced.
📍Each character is executed according to their role in the story.Especially Tushar.
📍Tushar was introduced at the last stage of the story, but his character is something that will impact you for longer.
📍Kamal is an honest but professional officer who fiercely takes his job seriously and accepts the case of stolen paintings as his duty towards the nation.
📍The little part of the love story of Roerich and Devika is admirable to read.
📍The story will give you a powerful insight into geopolitics as well as the situation of terrorist activities and India-Pakistan's continuing differences.
📍This story allows you to explore different angles of politics and terrorism as well as our system.
📍I admired the aggression of the police officers towards their duties with a sense of pride.
📍It will make you realise that how manipulation plays part as well as sometimes the most trustworthy are the back stabbers.
📍A fast-paced, thrilling read.
📍The Portrait of a Secret is a thrilling and capricious ride mixed with political aspects.
📍The story revolves around the theft of two beautiful paintings, which are from the collection of the greatest painter, Roerich :
Valley of flowers
Silent night
📍 From ICAR (the Indian Agricultural Research Centre), and the shocking thing is that nobody has any idea about it, and it ended up at Sotheby's Auction by someone named Abbas Ali.
📍 Kamal IAS officer is given charge to sort out this case by any chance because if the ICAR owned it and it has been stolen, it is a question of national security.
📍On the other hand, it also gives highlights of the terrorist attacks and activities of Jaish.
📍Who actually owns the painting? Abbas Ali or ICAR the painting? Abbas Ali or ICAR? How did it never get noticed by anyone about stolen paintings? Will Kamal be able to solve the case?
📍I found the plot of the story invigorating and fast-paced.
📍Each character is executed according to their role in the story.Especially Tushar.
📍Tushar was introduced at the last stage of the story, but his character is something that will impact you for longer.
📍Kamal is an honest but professional officer who fiercely takes his job seriously and accepts the case of stolen paintings as his duty towards the nation.
📍The little part of the love story of Roerich and Devika is admirable to read.
📍The story will give you a powerful insight into geopolitics as well as the situation of terrorist activities and India-Pakistan's continuing differences.
📍This story allows you to explore different angles of politics and terrorism as well as our system.
📍I admired the aggression of the police officers towards their duties with a sense of pride.
📍It will make you realise that how manipulation plays part as well as sometimes the most trustworthy are the back stabbers.
📍A fast-paced, thrilling read.
June 13, 2023
Thrillers are something that I always love to read and when I saw the words "A Novel inspired by true events " I didn't leave any chance to pick up the book and to my surprise this book is something beyond my expectations. If anyone is gonna ask what are your favourite thrillers this book definitely goes into the list.
As the blurb speaks greatly about the plot, I don't wanna add any spoilers to my review for this wonderful book. With every page turn I find myself at the edge to know what's going to happen next and can't put it down until I find out.
This book gives an amazing reading experience with its suspenseful and thrilling vibes which is something that every reader wants and loves. At the beginning, the story moves in different timelines which somewhat bothered me at first but I got used to it when I'm continuously reading with rapt attention due to the tension building around the story which is the impact of the author's narrative style.
This fictional story is perfectly blended with the non fictional elements, which made me feel that the whole book can be real vibes. (And yeah the author had separated the fictional and non fictional elements at the end of the book to come out of the trans I've built in my mind). This book is an extensive work of research with a good blend of topics of history, geopolitics, terrorism, partition and much more.
Will Kamal find out the thieves and unravel the secret of the portrait? Especially what is the secret lying in those two paintings? To find out grab this wonderful semi fictional suspense thriller and find out the answer along with Kamal. I'm damn sure that it'll give the vibes of being with the protagonist and seeing what's going on directly to every reader as I felt the same.
I highly recommend this book for all my bookish friends to give this book a try and thank me later for this wonderful suggestion. Happy Reading 😊❤️…
As the blurb speaks greatly about the plot, I don't wanna add any spoilers to my review for this wonderful book. With every page turn I find myself at the edge to know what's going to happen next and can't put it down until I find out.
This book gives an amazing reading experience with its suspenseful and thrilling vibes which is something that every reader wants and loves. At the beginning, the story moves in different timelines which somewhat bothered me at first but I got used to it when I'm continuously reading with rapt attention due to the tension building around the story which is the impact of the author's narrative style.
This fictional story is perfectly blended with the non fictional elements, which made me feel that the whole book can be real vibes. (And yeah the author had separated the fictional and non fictional elements at the end of the book to come out of the trans I've built in my mind). This book is an extensive work of research with a good blend of topics of history, geopolitics, terrorism, partition and much more.
Will Kamal find out the thieves and unravel the secret of the portrait? Especially what is the secret lying in those two paintings? To find out grab this wonderful semi fictional suspense thriller and find out the answer along with Kamal. I'm damn sure that it'll give the vibes of being with the protagonist and seeing what's going on directly to every reader as I felt the same.
I highly recommend this book for all my bookish friends to give this book a try and thank me later for this wonderful suggestion. Happy Reading 😊❤️…
May 31, 2023
𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊
•• TITLE : The Portrait of a Secret
•• AUTHOR : Tarun Mehrishi
•• PUBLISHER : Penguin Books
•• FORMAT : Paperback
•• LANGUAGE : English
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
Kamal, an IAS officer assigned to solve a high profile case.
..
This is the case of a robbery, robbery of two famous, beautiful & precious paintings drawn by the greatest painter, Roerich.
..
These two paintings were stolen from an agricultural research centre which are worth 400 crores. But the thing that makes everyone's eyes wide open is that no one has any clue about it.
..
These stolen paintings were auctioned at Sotheby's Auction & it was done by someone named Abbas Ali.
..
In the meantime, Jaish is planning to conduct a nuclear attack on India, which is informed by the chief of the Indian Intelligence agency.
..
To know what happened next, grab the book & give it a try.
✓ The cover of the book is dark, intense & beautifully designed. The cover itself speaks a lot about what the book is going to be.
✓ The story is a mixed genre of thrill, robbery, mystery & terror attack. The author nicely maintains all the essence in this book, which is a phenomenal job.
✓ The language used in this book is quite fascinating. It's good, easily understandable & quite relatable with the storyline.
✓ All the characters are developed in a great way, giving importance to each of them in an in-depth manner.
✓ The ample amount of research the author did before writing the book can be easily marked in the book.
✓ The real life incidents, true events, Kashmir references just elevated the book to a new level.
✓ The crisp detailed narration makes this book an edge of the seat reading where you can't guess what's going to happen next.
✓ It is quite a fast-paced book which is full of mystery & thrillers. It's just a unique kind of book that keeps you hooked up till the last page.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
•• TITLE : The Portrait of a Secret
•• AUTHOR : Tarun Mehrishi
•• PUBLISHER : Penguin Books
•• FORMAT : Paperback
•• LANGUAGE : English
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
Kamal, an IAS officer assigned to solve a high profile case.
..
This is the case of a robbery, robbery of two famous, beautiful & precious paintings drawn by the greatest painter, Roerich.
..
These two paintings were stolen from an agricultural research centre which are worth 400 crores. But the thing that makes everyone's eyes wide open is that no one has any clue about it.
..
These stolen paintings were auctioned at Sotheby's Auction & it was done by someone named Abbas Ali.
..
In the meantime, Jaish is planning to conduct a nuclear attack on India, which is informed by the chief of the Indian Intelligence agency.
..
To know what happened next, grab the book & give it a try.
✓ The cover of the book is dark, intense & beautifully designed. The cover itself speaks a lot about what the book is going to be.
✓ The story is a mixed genre of thrill, robbery, mystery & terror attack. The author nicely maintains all the essence in this book, which is a phenomenal job.
✓ The language used in this book is quite fascinating. It's good, easily understandable & quite relatable with the storyline.
✓ All the characters are developed in a great way, giving importance to each of them in an in-depth manner.
✓ The ample amount of research the author did before writing the book can be easily marked in the book.
✓ The real life incidents, true events, Kashmir references just elevated the book to a new level.
✓ The crisp detailed narration makes this book an edge of the seat reading where you can't guess what's going to happen next.
✓ It is quite a fast-paced book which is full of mystery & thrillers. It's just a unique kind of book that keeps you hooked up till the last page.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 4, 2023
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙊𝙏𝙍𝘼𝙄𝙏 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙎𝙀𝘾𝙍𝙀𝙏 𝙗𝙮 𝙏𝙖𝙧𝙪𝙣 𝙈𝙚𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙞
🖼️How many of you love watching movies !? I guess we all do, can't say anything about the ones who don't. Usually the best amongst them have either of these things in common, action packed, suspense, character building, investigative plots, and mind-blowing climax.
🖼️It's not a movie that I'll be discussing about, it's actually a book, which hold a scope to become a blockbuster movie, if ever been adapted to cinema.
🖼️ The book is revolves around a contemporary theme, set around the post independence era of India. The story originates from an investigation of a fortune worth theft of antique paintings from a government institute, which later on intersect with an ongoing intelligence investigation of terror attacks on the nation.
🖼️ The collision of these two results in an gripping narrative of unfolding of many exclusive secrets, and sensitive information regarding the sudden geopolitical power struggles. This results in an upstart for the journey of twists and turns which is breathtaking.
📌 I liked the way how various historical and geopolitical events have been compiled and used alongside the storyline, such as the Bolshevik Revolution, the creation of Bangladesh, the accession of Kashmir and the Osama Bin Laden Takedown, making the reading experience diverse and gripping.
📌 One cannot predict the forthcoming events and situations whilst reading this book. The writing style is immersive and lucid. Apart from all of this, the climax serves as the cherry on top. The book clearly shows good skills of investigative journalism, and storytelling.
📌 If you're someone who reads suspense thrillers, historical and geopolitical events, power struggles between countries or wants to explore a unique, then this might be a good fit for your bookshelf.
🖼️How many of you love watching movies !? I guess we all do, can't say anything about the ones who don't. Usually the best amongst them have either of these things in common, action packed, suspense, character building, investigative plots, and mind-blowing climax.
🖼️It's not a movie that I'll be discussing about, it's actually a book, which hold a scope to become a blockbuster movie, if ever been adapted to cinema.
🖼️ The book is revolves around a contemporary theme, set around the post independence era of India. The story originates from an investigation of a fortune worth theft of antique paintings from a government institute, which later on intersect with an ongoing intelligence investigation of terror attacks on the nation.
🖼️ The collision of these two results in an gripping narrative of unfolding of many exclusive secrets, and sensitive information regarding the sudden geopolitical power struggles. This results in an upstart for the journey of twists and turns which is breathtaking.
📌 I liked the way how various historical and geopolitical events have been compiled and used alongside the storyline, such as the Bolshevik Revolution, the creation of Bangladesh, the accession of Kashmir and the Osama Bin Laden Takedown, making the reading experience diverse and gripping.
📌 One cannot predict the forthcoming events and situations whilst reading this book. The writing style is immersive and lucid. Apart from all of this, the climax serves as the cherry on top. The book clearly shows good skills of investigative journalism, and storytelling.
📌 If you're someone who reads suspense thrillers, historical and geopolitical events, power struggles between countries or wants to explore a unique, then this might be a good fit for your bookshelf.
May 5, 2023
✓I picked this up because of the cover and the blurb of this book. The cover and the title intrigued me. The blurb sounded promising and interesting. The cover and title, compliment the plot and are highly appropriate.
✓The story revolves around two paintings by a famous Russian painter, Roerich, that gets stolen from the Indian Agricultural Research Centre and lands up at Sothbey's for auction. Senior IAS officer, Kamal is in charge of getting those paintings back, safely. Another sub-plot revolves around Jaish's terrorist attacks being planned.
✓The story is fictitious but is based on historical facts and true events. There are several sub-plots and characters. All the sub-plots line up to compliment the main plot of the story. Apart from the paintings and terrorism, I enjoyed Devika's sub-plot too. Characters like Amitabh fascinated me. I was also kind of liking Pamela's character until I came across her true colours.
✓The references to Kashmir's acquisition was Interestingly put forth. The author has done a remarkable job in describing his characters. All the characters including Abbas Ali and Kamal, have been nicely introduced. The story keeps switching timelines, places and sub-plots but the narration is good enough to avoid confusion.
✓It was a page-turner for me. The quality of the content portrayed the efforts that the author has put in research. The ways of the terrorist organizations, their funding procedures and the spy-connections have been nicely shown. The language is lucid too. I would not recommend this to the beginners because of multiple timelines and sub-plots. However, for readers who are into this genre, this book is highly recommended.
May 6, 2023
When we talk about a crime thriller or suspense thriller we always look forward to Hollywood movies or web series as they are well-scripted and video-graphed. But what if I say I recently read a book that gave me a mind-blowing and surprising experience by an Indian author, will you believe it??
Friends you have to believe it, the masterpiece 'The Portrait of a Secret' stands strong against all famous web series and books under this genre. The author's caliber is at par when it comes to scripting such enthralling suspense that will make you read the complete story in one go without taking a moment to breathe.
This story is of a real scenario where two most famous paintings are stolen. The theft is just not any normal theft but a hidden mystery behind the heinous act. The IAS officer in charge of the case is turning every page up and down to get to the culprit. But he is unaware of the path and the hurdles which he has to face while solving the great puzzle when he came to know that the money from paintings will be used to fund the terror attack. When he prevented the sale of the paintings he found a hidden mystery behind those frames which complicated the whole story into ten folds. Now it's a huge gamble to solve each piece of the puzzle to the perfect T.
Friends this is just the trailer, when you will reach the near end of the story you will go all deranged and that's what makes it a super blockbuster. Ample twists and turns, very secretive, unputdownable, gives you goosebumps, blows your mind, and freezes you within itself. What left me flabbergasted is the last surprise, I mean omg 😱 never even thought of this surprise coming my way. Friends, please read it to know the major twist at the end.
A must-read without fail 👍
Friends you have to believe it, the masterpiece 'The Portrait of a Secret' stands strong against all famous web series and books under this genre. The author's caliber is at par when it comes to scripting such enthralling suspense that will make you read the complete story in one go without taking a moment to breathe.
This story is of a real scenario where two most famous paintings are stolen. The theft is just not any normal theft but a hidden mystery behind the heinous act. The IAS officer in charge of the case is turning every page up and down to get to the culprit. But he is unaware of the path and the hurdles which he has to face while solving the great puzzle when he came to know that the money from paintings will be used to fund the terror attack. When he prevented the sale of the paintings he found a hidden mystery behind those frames which complicated the whole story into ten folds. Now it's a huge gamble to solve each piece of the puzzle to the perfect T.
Friends this is just the trailer, when you will reach the near end of the story you will go all deranged and that's what makes it a super blockbuster. Ample twists and turns, very secretive, unputdownable, gives you goosebumps, blows your mind, and freezes you within itself. What left me flabbergasted is the last surprise, I mean omg 😱 never even thought of this surprise coming my way. Friends, please read it to know the major twist at the end.
A must-read without fail 👍
June 11, 2023
It may seem unbelievable, but I recently had the incredible experience of reading an Indian author's crime thriller book that truly exceeded all expectations. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a masterpiece that can confidently hold its own against renowned Hollywood movies and popular web series in the genre.
The story unfolds with the theft of two highly famous paintings, but it quickly becomes apparent that there is much more to this crime than meets the eye. The author skillfully embeds a hidden mystery within the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout. Tasked with solving the case is an IAS officer, who navigates a labyrinthine journey filled with unexpected twists and obstacles. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen paintings play a pivotal role in funding a terrifying terrorist plot. As he unravels the enigma, he discovers a complex web of secrets concealed behind the frames, intensifying the story's intrigue tenfold. The stakes are high, and every puzzle piece he uncovers brings him closer to the truth.
This brief summary only scratches the surface of the book's gripping plot. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a riveting tale that will keep you engrossed from start to finish, with its air of secrecy, spine-chilling suspense, and heart-pounding surprises. You won't be able to put it down as the narrative hurtles towards its climax, leaving you in awe. And trust me when I say, the final revelation will leave you utterly astounded, defying all expectations.
Do yourself a favor and don't miss out on this captivating must-read. "The Portrait of a Secret" will transport you into a world of mystery and suspense, offering an unforgettable reading experience that will leave you craving more.
The story unfolds with the theft of two highly famous paintings, but it quickly becomes apparent that there is much more to this crime than meets the eye. The author skillfully embeds a hidden mystery within the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout. Tasked with solving the case is an IAS officer, who navigates a labyrinthine journey filled with unexpected twists and obstacles. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen paintings play a pivotal role in funding a terrifying terrorist plot. As he unravels the enigma, he discovers a complex web of secrets concealed behind the frames, intensifying the story's intrigue tenfold. The stakes are high, and every puzzle piece he uncovers brings him closer to the truth.
This brief summary only scratches the surface of the book's gripping plot. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a riveting tale that will keep you engrossed from start to finish, with its air of secrecy, spine-chilling suspense, and heart-pounding surprises. You won't be able to put it down as the narrative hurtles towards its climax, leaving you in awe. And trust me when I say, the final revelation will leave you utterly astounded, defying all expectations.
Do yourself a favor and don't miss out on this captivating must-read. "The Portrait of a Secret" will transport you into a world of mystery and suspense, offering an unforgettable reading experience that will leave you craving more.
June 11, 2023
Prepare to be astonished, as I recently had the privilege of reading an Indian author's crime thriller book that completely took me by surprise. "The Portrait of a Secret" surpasses all expectations and can easily rival the suspense and brilliance of Hollywood movies and popular web series.
The story revolves around the audacious theft of two highly acclaimed paintings, but there's much more to this crime than initially meets the eye. The author skillfully embeds a hidden mystery within the narrative, capturing readers with its gripping allure. Leading the charge in solving the enigma is an IAS officer, who faces a series of captivating twists and daunting obstacles along the way. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen artworks are connected to a sinister plot involving funding for a terrorist attack. As he peels back the layers, he uncovers a complex tapestry of secrets concealed within the frames, escalating the intrigue to a whole new level. Each piece of the puzzle he unravels brings him closer to the ultimate truth.
This concise overview only scratches the surface of the book's captivating plot. "The Portrait of a Secret" is an enthralling read that will keep you hooked from start to finish, with its air of secrecy, heart-pounding suspense, and unexpected surprises. You'll find it impossible to put the book down as the narrative hurtles towards its climactic resolution, leaving you in awe. And be prepared for the final revelation, as it will leave you utterly stunned, defying any preconceived notions.
Don't miss out on this captivating masterpiece. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a must-read that will transport you into a world of mystery and suspense, offering an unforgettable literary experience that will leave you yearning for more.
The story revolves around the audacious theft of two highly acclaimed paintings, but there's much more to this crime than initially meets the eye. The author skillfully embeds a hidden mystery within the narrative, capturing readers with its gripping allure. Leading the charge in solving the enigma is an IAS officer, who faces a series of captivating twists and daunting obstacles along the way. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen artworks are connected to a sinister plot involving funding for a terrorist attack. As he peels back the layers, he uncovers a complex tapestry of secrets concealed within the frames, escalating the intrigue to a whole new level. Each piece of the puzzle he unravels brings him closer to the ultimate truth.
This concise overview only scratches the surface of the book's captivating plot. "The Portrait of a Secret" is an enthralling read that will keep you hooked from start to finish, with its air of secrecy, heart-pounding suspense, and unexpected surprises. You'll find it impossible to put the book down as the narrative hurtles towards its climactic resolution, leaving you in awe. And be prepared for the final revelation, as it will leave you utterly stunned, defying any preconceived notions.
Don't miss out on this captivating masterpiece. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a must-read that will transport you into a world of mystery and suspense, offering an unforgettable literary experience that will leave you yearning for more.
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June 11, 2023Prepare to be amazed, as I recently had the pleasure of reading a mind-blowing crime thriller book by an Indian author that shattered all my expectations. "The Portrait of a Secret" stands tall among its Hollywood counterparts and popular web series, showcasing the author's exceptional storytelling prowess.
The story delves into the gripping tale of the theft of two renowned paintings, but it quickly becomes evident that there's more than meets the eye. The author skillfully weaves a hidden mystery within the crime, ensnaring readers in its captivating web. Guiding us through this thrilling journey is an IAS officer, grappling with a series of unexpected twists and obstacles that lie in his path. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen paintings hold the key to funding a nefarious terrorist plot. As he unravels the layers of intrigue, he uncovers a labyrinth of secrets concealed within the frames, multiplying the complexity of the narrative. Every puzzle piece he solves becomes a crucial step in the high-stakes gamble to bring the truth to light.
This brief synopsis merely scratches the surface of the book's enthralling plot. "The Portrait of a Secret" will keep you spellbound, with its aura of secrecy, heart-racing suspense, and spine-tingling surprises that defy expectations. It's a page-turner that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly flipping through the chapters to uncover the shocking climax. And brace yourself for the final revelation, as it will leave you utterly stunned, never anticipating such a twist.
Make sure not to miss out on this captivating masterpiece. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a must-read that will transport you into a world of suspense and mystery, offering an unforgettable literary experience that will leave you craving more.
The story delves into the gripping tale of the theft of two renowned paintings, but it quickly becomes evident that there's more than meets the eye. The author skillfully weaves a hidden mystery within the crime, ensnaring readers in its captivating web. Guiding us through this thrilling journey is an IAS officer, grappling with a series of unexpected twists and obstacles that lie in his path. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen paintings hold the key to funding a nefarious terrorist plot. As he unravels the layers of intrigue, he uncovers a labyrinth of secrets concealed within the frames, multiplying the complexity of the narrative. Every puzzle piece he solves becomes a crucial step in the high-stakes gamble to bring the truth to light.
This brief synopsis merely scratches the surface of the book's enthralling plot. "The Portrait of a Secret" will keep you spellbound, with its aura of secrecy, heart-racing suspense, and spine-tingling surprises that defy expectations. It's a page-turner that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly flipping through the chapters to uncover the shocking climax. And brace yourself for the final revelation, as it will leave you utterly stunned, never anticipating such a twist.
Make sure not to miss out on this captivating masterpiece. "The Portrait of a Secret" is a must-read that will transport you into a world of suspense and mystery, offering an unforgettable literary experience that will leave you craving more.
June 11, 2023
It may be hard to believe, but I recently came across an astonishing crime thriller book by an Indian author that left me completely amazed. "The Portrait of a Secret" stands tall among its Hollywood counterparts and popular web series in terms of its gripping narrative and impeccable storytelling.
The story centers around the theft of two highly acclaimed paintings, but there's much more to it than meets the eye. The author skillfully weaves a hidden mystery within the crime, captivating the reader from start to finish. Taking charge of the investigation is an IAS officer, who finds himself immersed in a world of twists and turns. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen paintings are linked to a larger conspiracy—a plan to fund a terror attack. As he unravels the layers of the puzzle, he uncovers a web of secrets hidden within the frames, turning the story into a thrilling rollercoaster ride. Every piece of the puzzle becomes a crucial element in his high-stakes race against time.
This brief overview merely scratches the surface of the book's enthralling plot. With its air of mystery, suspense, and unexpected surprises, "The Portrait of a Secret" will keep you glued to its pages, eagerly turning them without a moment's pause. Prepare to be mesmerized as the story reaches its crescendo, leaving you breathless. And believe me when I say, the final twist will leave you astounded, defying all expectations.
"The Portrait of a Secret" is an absolute must-read that will immerse you in a world of intrigue. Don't miss out on this captivating masterpiece that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
The story centers around the theft of two highly acclaimed paintings, but there's much more to it than meets the eye. The author skillfully weaves a hidden mystery within the crime, captivating the reader from start to finish. Taking charge of the investigation is an IAS officer, who finds himself immersed in a world of twists and turns. Unbeknownst to him, the stolen paintings are linked to a larger conspiracy—a plan to fund a terror attack. As he unravels the layers of the puzzle, he uncovers a web of secrets hidden within the frames, turning the story into a thrilling rollercoaster ride. Every piece of the puzzle becomes a crucial element in his high-stakes race against time.
This brief overview merely scratches the surface of the book's enthralling plot. With its air of mystery, suspense, and unexpected surprises, "The Portrait of a Secret" will keep you glued to its pages, eagerly turning them without a moment's pause. Prepare to be mesmerized as the story reaches its crescendo, leaving you breathless. And believe me when I say, the final twist will leave you astounded, defying all expectations.
"The Portrait of a Secret" is an absolute must-read that will immerse you in a world of intrigue. Don't miss out on this captivating masterpiece that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
June 11, 2023
Review:
A thriller book inspired by some true events are always attracting to me.
In the book we go back in times in the beginning as flashbacks and see some events happening which shapes the story and intact the suspense further.
Like the book starts with a story of an honest man first step to become the most dangerous mole in the history of Indian intelligence. Then we meet Nicolas, a famous Russian painter who fled to India and there's some more incidents happen in different times all through the centuries. Then we come in present days 2010, where two highly acclaimed paintings being stolen and which starts to reveal more high stakes, shocking things. And to prevent it both IAS and ISI officers comes together.
I don't know if I justify the synopsis as there's so many things going on in the book. And if I starts to say more it'll spoils the book.
But overall the book is totally captivating, I enjoyed a lot while reading. Though yes, in the beginning when the story jumps from one incident to another and in different timelines that its become difficult to keep up with it. But after sometimes you wouldn't mind it at all.
Another thing I like is the way the author being vague about things and keep the suspense intact till the very end.
Though the protagonist of the book, Kamal, the IAS officer is well developed, I was more into the story, the whole plot.
The story is well paced and full of twists and turns that makes you intrigue all through your reading journey.
So definitely this is a book I will love to recommend to all the thriller lovers.
A thriller book inspired by some true events are always attracting to me.
In the book we go back in times in the beginning as flashbacks and see some events happening which shapes the story and intact the suspense further.
Like the book starts with a story of an honest man first step to become the most dangerous mole in the history of Indian intelligence. Then we meet Nicolas, a famous Russian painter who fled to India and there's some more incidents happen in different times all through the centuries. Then we come in present days 2010, where two highly acclaimed paintings being stolen and which starts to reveal more high stakes, shocking things. And to prevent it both IAS and ISI officers comes together.
I don't know if I justify the synopsis as there's so many things going on in the book. And if I starts to say more it'll spoils the book.
But overall the book is totally captivating, I enjoyed a lot while reading. Though yes, in the beginning when the story jumps from one incident to another and in different timelines that its become difficult to keep up with it. But after sometimes you wouldn't mind it at all.
Another thing I like is the way the author being vague about things and keep the suspense intact till the very end.
Though the protagonist of the book, Kamal, the IAS officer is well developed, I was more into the story, the whole plot.
The story is well paced and full of twists and turns that makes you intrigue all through your reading journey.
So definitely this is a book I will love to recommend to all the thriller lovers.
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