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The Pataala Prophecy #1
Son of Bhrigu
Fifteen-year-old Maya and Arjun find their placid world suddenly overturned when their favourite history teacher is found brutally murdered. The death shocks students at the school and baffles the police. Meanwhile, a mysterious stranger's reappearance after 5,000 years strikes fear into the hearts of powerful members of a secret society, called the Sangha. Who is he and what is he after? What secrets are Arjun's uncle and mother hiding and why do they inexplicably decide to leave town for an unknown destination? What is the Pataala Prophecy, that must be decoded even as the world hurtles towards a fate that may doom humanity? In a race against time, Arjun and Maya must join forces with the Sangha to face an ageless and terrible enemy from the depths of Pataala. But can they overcome an ancient power that is out to wreak vengeance?
360 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2018
366 people are currently reading
1042 people want to read
About the author
Christopher C. Doyle
15 books424 followersChristopher C. Doyle pursued a career in the corporate world, graduating from St. Stephens College, Delhi with a degree in Economics and studying business management at IIM Calcutta. He now helps companies to grow profitably and sustainably.
He is also a musician and lives his passion for music through his band called Mid Life Crisis which plays classic rock.
He is also a musician and lives his passion for music through his band called Mid Life Crisis which plays classic rock.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 263 reviews
March 16, 2020
A gripping tale. Woven genres of mythology, action & Vedas.
A sureshot page Turner.
A sureshot page Turner.
February 17, 2019
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Thank you Westland Publishers for a review copy.
This is the first book by Christopher C Doyle that I read, and if I'm honest, then I'm not sure what I expected. So far, I had heard nothing but praise for the man. At the same time, though, I have also seen a lot of praise a variety of other authors that I didn't particularly like myself. Of course then, I had to give him a try myself in order to know for sure. And a try I gave. An anticipated one, but one nonetheless.
Only to find out that I was not disappointed. Doyle was every bit of what his readers claim him to be. All that beautiful writing style was smooth and top-notch. I found out that I wasn't bored even in a single chapter. The short and crisp chapters ensured that my attention isn't diverted and I happily read everything as soon as possible.
Son of Bhrigu is the story of Arjun and Maya and how they find themselves in completely new surroundings. What are the circumstances that lead to such an incident are also mysterious and arouse curiosity within the reader.
What I noticed throughout the book (and specifically in the second half) was that the book reminded me a lot of Harry Potter. There is a hidden prophecy that only a select few know. This prophecy talks of a fight between this super powerful being and and his nemesis, only one who can survive. And obviously, this nemesis has to be a little guy, no? *shakes head*
Despite these similarities though, the story has its own charms. And if my guess is right then this will be a trilogy and each book will climax with them finding each part of the prophecy.
What I loved the most about it was how the author maintained my curiosity throughout. To think of a better way to pen down this book is almost next to impossible.
However, what bothers me the most is how eagerly I await the next installment in this series. Son of Bhrigu turned out to be one of those few books for me, the sequel of which I would eagerly want to read now. And if I may, then I believe any one else who reads it will probably feel the same way.
Thank you Westland Publishers for a review copy.
This is the first book by Christopher C Doyle that I read, and if I'm honest, then I'm not sure what I expected. So far, I had heard nothing but praise for the man. At the same time, though, I have also seen a lot of praise a variety of other authors that I didn't particularly like myself. Of course then, I had to give him a try myself in order to know for sure. And a try I gave. An anticipated one, but one nonetheless.
Only to find out that I was not disappointed. Doyle was every bit of what his readers claim him to be. All that beautiful writing style was smooth and top-notch. I found out that I wasn't bored even in a single chapter. The short and crisp chapters ensured that my attention isn't diverted and I happily read everything as soon as possible.
Son of Bhrigu is the story of Arjun and Maya and how they find themselves in completely new surroundings. What are the circumstances that lead to such an incident are also mysterious and arouse curiosity within the reader.
What I noticed throughout the book (and specifically in the second half) was that the book reminded me a lot of Harry Potter. There is a hidden prophecy that only a select few know. This prophecy talks of a fight between this super powerful being and and his nemesis, only one who can survive. And obviously, this nemesis has to be a little guy, no? *shakes head*
Despite these similarities though, the story has its own charms. And if my guess is right then this will be a trilogy and each book will climax with them finding each part of the prophecy.
What I loved the most about it was how the author maintained my curiosity throughout. To think of a better way to pen down this book is almost next to impossible.
However, what bothers me the most is how eagerly I await the next installment in this series. Son of Bhrigu turned out to be one of those few books for me, the sequel of which I would eagerly want to read now. And if I may, then I believe any one else who reads it will probably feel the same way.
August 6, 2019
This is an average read. Almost a fantasy novel, the author attempts to bring it close to facts but fails. There are too many coincidences and the plot is weak. The book has a dramatic beginning and beginning is fast paced. But as you progress, you start getting bored and it is only with great sustained effort that you will complete the book.
June 2, 2018
Unlike his earlier works, Christopher C. Doyle's has included more of fantasy in this book. The real and fantastical worlds do not merge as well. But the writing is good and it is a fast read.
Full review to come soon.
Full review to come soon.
November 25, 2019
I had very high expectations from this book. But first 100 pages are very painful to read. It's like some new wannabe writer wrote this story. But then I started to like the story little bit.
It's like the Indian version of Harry Potter. Two childhood friend Arjun and Maya comes to know they are not normal children. They are belong to a secret ancient society named Sangha. And a ancient guru of demon name shuklacharya is wanted to kill them because according to a prophecy they will stop him to open the gate of evil to the earth. So they are taken to the Gurukul, the school where they will taught magic and fighting skills to stop shuklacharya.
The second part of the story is not that bad. But it's like written for children. And as I told I've expected something better, so it's become a average read for me. But still I like to read second part of the story.
It's like the Indian version of Harry Potter. Two childhood friend Arjun and Maya comes to know they are not normal children. They are belong to a secret ancient society named Sangha. And a ancient guru of demon name shuklacharya is wanted to kill them because according to a prophecy they will stop him to open the gate of evil to the earth. So they are taken to the Gurukul, the school where they will taught magic and fighting skills to stop shuklacharya.
The second part of the story is not that bad. But it's like written for children. And as I told I've expected something better, so it's become a average read for me. But still I like to read second part of the story.
June 25, 2018
The teenage friends duo, Arjun and Maya are in for a complete reversal of normality in their life. This history teacher is murdered,and in the events after,they realize that they are the protagonists of a 5000 year prophecy, one where they are pitted against Sukra, the asura guru who is bent upon altering the world. Unable to believe that these myths could be real, yet facing incidents that could even look bewildering in a dream, will the duo live up to the prediction.
The story is built upon well, although tad slow, hoping further books to be more immersive. Looking forward.
The story is built upon well, although tad slow, hoping further books to be more immersive. Looking forward.
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May 18, 2021It was a long time ago when all I had was Kindle Unlimited subscription so I read anything and everything 🙈
July 1, 2018
I have always been super excited to read books related to mythology, especially Hindu mythology. Brought up in a very orthodox Hindu family, my childhood was always filled with stories of Mahabharatha and Ramayana. Probably that’s why at least one fourth of my bookshelf is filled with books related to mythology. This is the first book which I read by Christopher C Doyle.
To read the detailed review please visit the link https://benuraj.wordpress.com/2018/07...
I must say that it was absolutely brilliant. The book is about son of Bhrigu, Shukra (Shukraacharya), who is hunting down a 15 year old boy, Arjun, scion of Yayati because of a prophecy.
Shukra wants to unleash the Paatala Nivaasis (dwellers of subterranean realms of the universe) onto bhulok (earth), Saptarshis stopped him 5000 years ago. Since the Saptarshis and Devas will be powerless and away in Kaliyuga, Saptarshi’s created a prophecy and split it across 3 lokas – bhulok, gandharva lok, and dev lok. As Shukra gets hold of the part of prophecy which was present in Bhulok, he comes to know that a scion of Yayati will be born to kill him. 15 years before, Shukra tracks down the baby, kills him. But later he comes to know that the boy, scion of Yayati, still lives. Thus making Arjun, scion of Yayati, the boy who lived. The story further proceeds to describe how the Maharishi’s and Kshathriyas in present day Gurukul, along with Arjun, Maya (Arjun’s best friend), Arjun’s mom and uncle finds out and plot ways to save earth from Shukra. Now, I cannot lie, I did feel a harry potter air when I knew the storyline.
Son of Bhrigu (The Pataala Prophecy) was a perfect mixture of mystery, action and fantasy. A perfect story which will make sure you forget world and have your reading glasses on. Even though the book was in modest English, the way in which author has described particular scenes was spectacular. There were instances, were I paused, smiled to myself and reread the line again, to enjoy the beauty of his imagination.
To be absolutely truthful, I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I cannot wait to find out how the sapthas, lead by scion of Yayati, are gonna stop Shukra.
To read the detailed review please visit the link https://benuraj.wordpress.com/2018/07...
I must say that it was absolutely brilliant. The book is about son of Bhrigu, Shukra (Shukraacharya), who is hunting down a 15 year old boy, Arjun, scion of Yayati because of a prophecy.
Shukra wants to unleash the Paatala Nivaasis (dwellers of subterranean realms of the universe) onto bhulok (earth), Saptarshis stopped him 5000 years ago. Since the Saptarshis and Devas will be powerless and away in Kaliyuga, Saptarshi’s created a prophecy and split it across 3 lokas – bhulok, gandharva lok, and dev lok. As Shukra gets hold of the part of prophecy which was present in Bhulok, he comes to know that a scion of Yayati will be born to kill him. 15 years before, Shukra tracks down the baby, kills him. But later he comes to know that the boy, scion of Yayati, still lives. Thus making Arjun, scion of Yayati, the boy who lived. The story further proceeds to describe how the Maharishi’s and Kshathriyas in present day Gurukul, along with Arjun, Maya (Arjun’s best friend), Arjun’s mom and uncle finds out and plot ways to save earth from Shukra. Now, I cannot lie, I did feel a harry potter air when I knew the storyline.
Son of Bhrigu (The Pataala Prophecy) was a perfect mixture of mystery, action and fantasy. A perfect story which will make sure you forget world and have your reading glasses on. Even though the book was in modest English, the way in which author has described particular scenes was spectacular. There were instances, were I paused, smiled to myself and reread the line again, to enjoy the beauty of his imagination.
To be absolutely truthful, I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I cannot wait to find out how the sapthas, lead by scion of Yayati, are gonna stop Shukra.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2020
I am cutting 3 points for lack of originality
This seems imitation of J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan's works.
A boy suddenly is introduced in a mystical world= Harry, Percy, Arjun
The boy is also mentioned in a prophecy= Though in HP it's either Harry or Neville, in PJO it's Thalia, Percy, Bianca, and Nico in HoO we learn that Jason and Hazel also could've been the one, Arjun
His genius female best friend= Hermione, Annabeth, Maya
Only one out of two can remain alive= Harry and Voldemort, Arjun and Shukracharya
The Seven= Percy, Annabeth, Hazel, Leo, Piper, Frank, and Jason,
Arjun, Maya, Adira, Varun, Amyra, Tanveer and Agastya
Brother-Sister pair= Nico-Hazel, Varun-Adira
Similarities with Kane Chronicles
Ba Travel= Atma travel
A locker in Duat opening with a password= A locker opening with mantras
Carter's locker is way cooler than anyone's in this book
The plot was slightly intriguing. I liked Maya mostly
This seems imitation of J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan's works.
A boy suddenly is introduced in a mystical world= Harry, Percy, Arjun
The boy is also mentioned in a prophecy= Though in HP it's either Harry or Neville, in PJO it's Thalia, Percy, Bianca, and Nico in HoO we learn that Jason and Hazel also could've been the one, Arjun
His genius female best friend= Hermione, Annabeth, Maya
Only one out of two can remain alive= Harry and Voldemort, Arjun and Shukracharya
The Seven= Percy, Annabeth, Hazel, Leo, Piper, Frank, and Jason,
Arjun, Maya, Adira, Varun, Amyra, Tanveer and Agastya
Brother-Sister pair= Nico-Hazel, Varun-Adira
Similarities with Kane Chronicles
Ba Travel= Atma travel
A locker in Duat opening with a password= A locker opening with mantras
Carter's locker is way cooler than anyone's in this book
The plot was slightly intriguing. I liked Maya mostly
October 25, 2018
Actually i like to rate it 3.5 stars. For some reason this book took me so long to read.
Book starts with a prologue of short story. There is no mention of it later in the book.
Two friends Arjun and maya who were in 9th grade is a main characters of the story. Sudenly one their favourite history teacher died. After that their lifes unfolds lots of secrates. They runaway from their city to other kingdom which is no where to find in horizon cos it is protected by the mantras. There they come to know the world is in danger by Shukra and its there duty to distory the evil and protect the world. Shukra is wakes up 5000 years later to destory his prey.
My favourite character is maya. I like the mention of mantras and the way of using it. The way books starts made be hooked to it. Its was facinating but it never stays till the end. I have 50-50 opinion on this book. In some places i felt like im reading a childrens books which i dont like in the run but in some places it is nerve wraking. I cant decide the best rating to the book here so i decided to continue the series to make a good rating.
Book starts with a prologue of short story. There is no mention of it later in the book.
Two friends Arjun and maya who were in 9th grade is a main characters of the story. Sudenly one their favourite history teacher died. After that their lifes unfolds lots of secrates. They runaway from their city to other kingdom which is no where to find in horizon cos it is protected by the mantras. There they come to know the world is in danger by Shukra and its there duty to distory the evil and protect the world. Shukra is wakes up 5000 years later to destory his prey.
My favourite character is maya. I like the mention of mantras and the way of using it. The way books starts made be hooked to it. Its was facinating but it never stays till the end. I have 50-50 opinion on this book. In some places i felt like im reading a childrens books which i dont like in the run but in some places it is nerve wraking. I cant decide the best rating to the book here so i decided to continue the series to make a good rating.
August 16, 2020
First of all the cover makes me doubt whether to read it or not. Sometimes the cover is the first impact on how the book is going to be. 😅 But of course we can't judge a book by its cover.
The book is good. I thought I will dislike it but I actually enjoyed it. I first heard of Bhrigu in Amish's Shiva trilogy book. I am also glad I read Amish's book before this since I kind of understand some of the things that are happening here.
I like that the author put different scenarios from Maya & Arjun's current world, to Detective Kapoor's unexplained cases which are the normal human world. It is actually interesting.
Well, the end is appealling and I can't wait to know what happen next. 😊😊
The book is good. I thought I will dislike it but I actually enjoyed it. I first heard of Bhrigu in Amish's Shiva trilogy book. I am also glad I read Amish's book before this since I kind of understand some of the things that are happening here.
I like that the author put different scenarios from Maya & Arjun's current world, to Detective Kapoor's unexplained cases which are the normal human world. It is actually interesting.
Well, the end is appealling and I can't wait to know what happen next. 😊😊
July 27, 2019
After reading the Meluha series, this reads as an amateurish attempt. The dialogues sound way too forced and artificial. The story not compelling enough. I understand that this is the first of a series but this did not make me want to read any other from this series.
I suggest buying the Meluha Series for a far better reading experience and story.
I suggest buying the Meluha Series for a far better reading experience and story.
January 5, 2019
I expected more of history and less of fantasy in content. But it is reverse of this.
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January 23, 2020When I was reading this book I remembered Harry Potter somehow. but its a good read liked it. now will start second volume.
January 30, 2024
It is impossible for a Harry Potter fan to ignore the striking resemblances of the Pataala Prophecy to their favourite series that they grew up with, and needless to say, that this Indian adaptation falls way short in comparison.
Shukra as Voldermort not scary enough.
Saytavachana as Dumbledore not inspiring enough.
Gurukul as Hogwarts not alluring enough.
Arjun as Harry doesn't appear valiant.
Maya as Hermione doesn't appear wise. And, surprisingly like Hermione she is not a wizard, rather a muggle…. Sorry …Sadh in this case. (Though I sense that she could turn out to be the chosen one instead of Arjun later.. And is that the only twist?)
There are many other similarities as Vishwaraj as Malfoy, Pisacha/Vikritis as dementors, Dandaka as forbidden forest, etc etc.
An attempt to weave a tale of modern day fantasy with Indian mythological connection is commendable, but I wish the story to be tad bit original.
P.S. Interesting book cover.
P.P.S. Listened to the audible version in 1.5X speed, so no sweat.
Shukra as Voldermort not scary enough.
Saytavachana as Dumbledore not inspiring enough.
Gurukul as Hogwarts not alluring enough.
Arjun as Harry doesn't appear valiant.
Maya as Hermione doesn't appear wise. And, surprisingly like Hermione she is not a wizard, rather a muggle…. Sorry …Sadh in this case. (Though I sense that she could turn out to be the chosen one instead of Arjun later.. And is that the only twist?)
There are many other similarities as Vishwaraj as Malfoy, Pisacha/Vikritis as dementors, Dandaka as forbidden forest, etc etc.
An attempt to weave a tale of modern day fantasy with Indian mythological connection is commendable, but I wish the story to be tad bit original.
P.S. Interesting book cover.
P.P.S. Listened to the audible version in 1.5X speed, so no sweat.
December 31, 2021
This is the first book of Christopher Doyle that I am reading and I think this would be my last too.
The book does not set any context, background as to why certain events are happening. The plot could have been made interesting if more information/background would have been provided instead of the world coming to an end and one protagonist trying to save it.
Also for me the story is lacking research - simple plot lines and story concept is written without any research or understanding provided to the reader. To elucidate an example the book provides information that the prophecy of the world coming to an end is divided in three parts and each ‘Lok’ has one part of the prophecy. But what is the significance behind each Lok containing that part of the prophecy or how are the three inter-connected is missing.
Lastly, while the protagonist is continuing its search to find answers and possibly stop the end of the world, there are in parallel murders that have taken place which the police is investigating. That thread of the story barely receives any information - only some chapters dedicated to the investigation. Finally, the book is repetitive and tells us a story of the questions that arise in characters minds more than actually providing the readers with answers and a concrete research based interesting book.
For all these reasons, I am rating this book as 3/5.
The book does not set any context, background as to why certain events are happening. The plot could have been made interesting if more information/background would have been provided instead of the world coming to an end and one protagonist trying to save it.
Also for me the story is lacking research - simple plot lines and story concept is written without any research or understanding provided to the reader. To elucidate an example the book provides information that the prophecy of the world coming to an end is divided in three parts and each ‘Lok’ has one part of the prophecy. But what is the significance behind each Lok containing that part of the prophecy or how are the three inter-connected is missing.
Lastly, while the protagonist is continuing its search to find answers and possibly stop the end of the world, there are in parallel murders that have taken place which the police is investigating. That thread of the story barely receives any information - only some chapters dedicated to the investigation. Finally, the book is repetitive and tells us a story of the questions that arise in characters minds more than actually providing the readers with answers and a concrete research based interesting book.
For all these reasons, I am rating this book as 3/5.
August 4, 2020
Guys, let's call this the Indian version of Percy Jackson & Harry Potter mix. The ideas are similar, but not a copy. We have Gurukuls, prophecies, and fates of the worlds resting, yet again, on the shoulders of a teenage boy and girl - Arjun & Maya. There are no children of God in this one, but we have scions. We have a well-defined system of good and evil. We have a different style of narration though. The narration style is dark and short, unlike Rick Riordan's style. Then there is the concept of Sadh much like the Muggles.
Shukracharya is back with a Vengeance! I have always thought Shukra as a good guy. To read a mytho- fiction, where he is portrayed as the badass, is interesting. Shukra wants to destroy the world, and only seven people can stop him, as per the prophecy. Thus begins the battle determining the fate of the world.
I loved the structuring of the story. The concept of Rishis and Kshatriyas fighting side by side complementing each other is fresh. The chapters are crisp and entertaining. The world-building is to the point. The author doesn't dilly dally, but get rights to the point. But he does it too much that I felt a lack of character depth. The conversations between characters also need some working on. All in all, a fairly promising blend of magic, myth, science, fiction, and fantasy.
Shukracharya is back with a Vengeance! I have always thought Shukra as a good guy. To read a mytho- fiction, where he is portrayed as the badass, is interesting. Shukra wants to destroy the world, and only seven people can stop him, as per the prophecy. Thus begins the battle determining the fate of the world.
I loved the structuring of the story. The concept of Rishis and Kshatriyas fighting side by side complementing each other is fresh. The chapters are crisp and entertaining. The world-building is to the point. The author doesn't dilly dally, but get rights to the point. But he does it too much that I felt a lack of character depth. The conversations between characters also need some working on. All in all, a fairly promising blend of magic, myth, science, fiction, and fantasy.
December 12, 2018
I picked this book up mainly because I am a fan of Christopher C Doyle’s writing. But I have to say, I was rather disappointed by this series. It seems like he has run out of creative ideas and research. I don’t mean to belittle his work here by any way however this book seems like a rip-off of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. Clearly Arjun’s character is based on Harry Potter where an ordinary boy is suddenly introduced to a mythical world and weight of saving the world thrust upon his small shoulders. Maya’s character is based on Hermoine and in fact all the traits portrayed by her are clearly mimicked from JK Rowling’s work. Shukra again is nothing but Indian manifestation of Voldemort along with definitions such as “Sadh” like “Muggles”. I expected a lot more than normal “Shanta Karam” mantras and Gandharva connection.
But again, if this book was written by someone else I wouldn’t have been so disappointed because Christopher has raised the bar very high with his previous great works. I hope Christopher produces more genuine and amazing works like his Mahabharata Quest series in the future.
But again, if this book was written by someone else I wouldn’t have been so disappointed because Christopher has raised the bar very high with his previous great works. I hope Christopher produces more genuine and amazing works like his Mahabharata Quest series in the future.
May 7, 2018
book content: 9/10
writing style: 10/10
boon flow: 9/10
a typical Doyle book it is!! i love historical
fiction and Doyle just happens to come for rescue whenever i have a craving for it..although the theme is somewhat similar to Mahabharat quest, the plot and characters are completely different..
i dont have to discuss much about his writing style..i guess it took 3 sittings to fiNish the book..
at some locations, it becomes irritating when our curiosity is aroused to highest level and the incident is left unfinished at the end of the chapter and next chapter starts with different plot..but then it comes back later..
connecting the mantras,collecting them from actual scripts and using it wisely,gives the book a different aura..
all in all,its a feast for fictions lovers..
writing style: 10/10
boon flow: 9/10
a typical Doyle book it is!! i love historical
fiction and Doyle just happens to come for rescue whenever i have a craving for it..although the theme is somewhat similar to Mahabharat quest, the plot and characters are completely different..
i dont have to discuss much about his writing style..i guess it took 3 sittings to fiNish the book..
at some locations, it becomes irritating when our curiosity is aroused to highest level and the incident is left unfinished at the end of the chapter and next chapter starts with different plot..but then it comes back later..
connecting the mantras,collecting them from actual scripts and using it wisely,gives the book a different aura..
all in all,its a feast for fictions lovers..
March 27, 2019
The book is a fantastic thriller. If you are an avid reader and if you have explored so many popular books, then you can find many things in this book which can give you “deja-vu” feelings for sure. In fact, you can draw parallels with Harry Potter series while reading this book, both in incidents and dialogs!
Author is good at vocabulary and his command over the language is visible throughout the book. He tried to keep the language as simple as possible, however there are some parts where it is necessary to use something exceptional.
The author has done a large amount of research and read many reference books and other material. He acknowledges the same in the book as well. In fact, he mentions various incidents where he took liberty and portrayed in his own way!
Author is good at vocabulary and his command over the language is visible throughout the book. He tried to keep the language as simple as possible, however there are some parts where it is necessary to use something exceptional.
The author has done a large amount of research and read many reference books and other material. He acknowledges the same in the book as well. In fact, he mentions various incidents where he took liberty and portrayed in his own way!
September 16, 2018
Really great book
Story is very interesting. There are some parts in the book that require grammatical editing. However, the storyline ie absolutely perfect. Looking forward to completing the next few books in the series!
Story is very interesting. There are some parts in the book that require grammatical editing. However, the storyline ie absolutely perfect. Looking forward to completing the next few books in the series!
May 29, 2019
The book kicked off with a promise of thrill. Then somewhere in the middle it got stretched. It lacked that something special which races your pulse and wants you to keep going. Not my cup of tea. I don't think I will bother with the sequels.
August 20, 2019
A very interesting read. nice thriller. It will compel you to not keep the book down till it is over. Still a little confused about how the things work in this book. I also think readers outside India may not be able to connect with the historical/mythological references.
September 20, 2019
Interesting read where fiction meets mythology. Good story telling.
June 26, 2020
IT IS THE BEST BOOK SERIES OF CHRISTOPHER C. DOYLE
December 30, 2019
As the name of the book says, its about the Shukracharya, the son of Brahmarishi Brighu. The story goes like this - in the beginning of Kaliyuga, Shukracharya tries to open the doors of the netherworld, to release the demons so that they can take control of the Bhu-lok (the world where we reside). The Saptarishis, however, commands Shukracharya to desist from his plans. Though they suceed in curbing the evil intentions of Shukracharya but they anticipate that later in Kaliyuga, Shukracharya may again attempt to unleash the inhabitants of the netherworlds. Therefore, the Saptarishis announces a prophecy/ set of instructions on how to stop Shukracharya from his evil deeds. The prophecy/instructions are divided in 3 parts and hidden in 3 different places (one in Bhu-lok, one in Devalok and the last in Gandharvalok).
In the first book, the writer talks only about the first part of the prophecy - i.e. the boy, born in the Yayati lineage, who is destined to fight with Shukracharya and stops him from succeeding in his cruel plans.
Christopher has done a good work on researching and quoting real verses from Mahabharata, Srimad Bhagavatam, Bhagavad Gita and various puranas. It is really interesting to read some short stories that the writer has written in-between the main plot like that of the:
- Story of Kacha (son of Brihaspati - the guru of Devas) and Shukracharya
- Story of Vritrasura (importance of correct pronunciation of mantra)
- Story of Arjuna and Vrishnis
- Story of Takshaka and Kasyapa Rishi, and many more.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book. It's a fast-paced read, with the suspense and thrill starting right from the first page and holds you glued till the end. There wasn't even a second when you would feel lost. Just a small let down that I felt was the writer's rush while writing the short sideline stories that I mentioned above. It would have been a perfect 5 on 5, if the writer could have covered those stories in a bit more detail.
In the first book, the writer talks only about the first part of the prophecy - i.e. the boy, born in the Yayati lineage, who is destined to fight with Shukracharya and stops him from succeeding in his cruel plans.
Christopher has done a good work on researching and quoting real verses from Mahabharata, Srimad Bhagavatam, Bhagavad Gita and various puranas. It is really interesting to read some short stories that the writer has written in-between the main plot like that of the:
- Story of Kacha (son of Brihaspati - the guru of Devas) and Shukracharya
- Story of Vritrasura (importance of correct pronunciation of mantra)
- Story of Arjuna and Vrishnis
- Story of Takshaka and Kasyapa Rishi, and many more.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book. It's a fast-paced read, with the suspense and thrill starting right from the first page and holds you glued till the end. There wasn't even a second when you would feel lost. Just a small let down that I felt was the writer's rush while writing the short sideline stories that I mentioned above. It would have been a perfect 5 on 5, if the writer could have covered those stories in a bit more detail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2020
The Pataala Prophecy
Before giving my review, I want to tell you a few things. I have never read any fiction book before, nor is it my favorite. It is already a considerable amount in the form of movies and web series.
Now come back to the book. I bought this book in 2019 not because I like fiction, but because I liked its cover. When I had the prologue of this book, I did not understand much but those unspoken words of Napoleon aroused curiosity in me.
I read the first chapter of the book, it was mainly about the history teacher Trivedi. I felt he is a passionate teacher who teach history in a fun way. And the desire to know more about him increased. But the writer wanted something else. He already ended Trivedi's character in the chapter. He was murdered.
I was disappointed. But I wanted to know the reason behind his murder and about his killer. The book contains 85 chapters and I read the entire book in 9 hours. As the name of this book, many things in it are taken from Mahabharata and Vedas. I am very impressed with the author's writing. The way he has used Hindu mythology is worthy of praise. The characters written in it are very original and each character has its own important role. My favorite character is Maya ❤️.
In the last few chapters, I did not understand how Maya discovered that lost island and how Garuda came there. If anyone can tell about this, please tell me.
I am giving 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars to this book and cutting ❌ one star for my question.
I liked this book and the writing style of the author. I will definitely read the next part of this book.
Christopher C. Doyle you Win my heart through you writting. Happy Reader😄
Before giving my review, I want to tell you a few things. I have never read any fiction book before, nor is it my favorite. It is already a considerable amount in the form of movies and web series.
Now come back to the book. I bought this book in 2019 not because I like fiction, but because I liked its cover. When I had the prologue of this book, I did not understand much but those unspoken words of Napoleon aroused curiosity in me.
I read the first chapter of the book, it was mainly about the history teacher Trivedi. I felt he is a passionate teacher who teach history in a fun way. And the desire to know more about him increased. But the writer wanted something else. He already ended Trivedi's character in the chapter. He was murdered.
I was disappointed. But I wanted to know the reason behind his murder and about his killer. The book contains 85 chapters and I read the entire book in 9 hours. As the name of this book, many things in it are taken from Mahabharata and Vedas. I am very impressed with the author's writing. The way he has used Hindu mythology is worthy of praise. The characters written in it are very original and each character has its own important role. My favorite character is Maya ❤️.
In the last few chapters, I did not understand how Maya discovered that lost island and how Garuda came there. If anyone can tell about this, please tell me.
I am giving 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars to this book and cutting ❌ one star for my question.
I liked this book and the writing style of the author. I will definitely read the next part of this book.
Christopher C. Doyle you Win my heart through you writting. Happy Reader😄
May 9, 2021
A very strong start to a new series by the author of The Mahabharata Quest Series. Although one can't help drawing comparisons to Harry Potter with the Prophecy, the chosen one and the villian and his proclivity to ghoulic and serpentine creatures of the netherworld, they would be mistaken to put down this book for that reason. It is well paced and well written with the protagonists stories fleshed out and the author absorbing completely their feelings and thoughts as he writes them. The supporting cast is colourful as well although their characters aren't as fleshed out as I would have liked and I am looking forward to more character development in the later books. Since most pov characters are together for most of the book, the suspension of action when it is strong and moving on to another thread is absent unlike his other books and it is largely a smooth, linear read. One thing I've noticed in most historical-mythological fiction literature of modern times is the complete ignorance or sidelining of other cultures as not important to the story. Although the writers have the license to do so, weaving them into the story can have a positive impact and a small prologue with Napoleon builds excitement as did Alexander's and the English Druids' inclusion in the other books.
It's a great one time read and I highly recommend it for fans of the genre.
It's a great one time read and I highly recommend it for fans of the genre.
February 28, 2023
The author imagination is worthy of applause as he tried to weave a great story around an ancient and powerful guru shukracharya, a great guru of danavs, son of bhrigu, some 50,000 years ago, who author described as being in meditation, all these years to acquire a power to gain entry in to all 07 loks (spheres), including bhulok (earth) in this age. The onus fell on to several, certain special , 07 people on earth to save this planet and human beings as per some ancient prophecy. Some power was vested on them being in line of maharishi, khastriya or gana, sanga or sadh, as they practice it too. One of them from yayati line is Arjun, a teenager in 9th std. in school stayed with her mother and uncle, his friend Maya's father was killed at home by shukracharya in unusual circumstances in front of Maya, as she ran for her life clutching his fathers diary of secrets. All of them turned up at mysterious Gurukul (ancient school) on river ken sorrounding forest, where they prepare for their impending battle against dark forces looming over them, while inspector, SP Kapoor was simply bewildered yet keen to solve mystery of unexplained, unusual murders and disappearances of these people in the city. This book was part 1. The author writing style is also fluid and bewitching enough to make it interesting, making one want to read part 2. 04 stars for this one.
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