Book Review of 'Linger When You're Gone' by Chitra Padmana

This is my 45^th read of the year, a book I’d saved since a long time because I knew it would be a good one. And it was well worth the wait – I absolutely enjoyed the fast-paced psychological thriller, with oodles of suspense that left me with ample goosebumps to keep the pages turning.

A special mention is in order for the top-notch vocabulary and delightful language, which is quite a rarity in a large number of Indie novels being published of late.

Storyline

The storyline is intriguing, spiced with wry humour, especially the scenes where Miris interacts with the police. The reader’s heart aches when Miris describes the woes of her condition, increasing the awareness of the challenges of living with Hyperosmia.

The story is structured between the past and the present, offering a good build-up of the suspense. The digs at the hypocrisy of society are not lost on the reader, even as one identifies with the dilemmas of a single woman battling with the demons of her past. 

Characters

Miris is an engaging protagonist who keeps us on the edge of our seats with the building suspense of her past and the mounting sense of danger that she is embroiled in.

Sameer and Saira are endearing characters who provide just the amount of fun, relief and romance to the plot. I especially loved the way the easygoing and yet deep bond between siblings is showcased in the book.

Roy is a fantastic antagonist, whose menace is crafted with just the right amount of finesse and aplomb.  

Themes

The best theme I liked was the concept of Hyperosmia - hyper sensitivity of the sense of smell - that carries the whole premise of the tale. It is the first time that I have come across a thriller that is pulled off with something as unique as this.

Obsessive love isn’t a new theme in novels, however Chitra Padmana has infused it with a new tinge. Although some parts of the mystery are somewhat predictable, the knots get tied up neatly in the end.

Conclusion and Rating

This one is a must-read for thriller lovers, looking for a whole new pattern of storytelling. Goosebumps are guaranteed, even as reader might begin to feel a heightening of their own sense of smell, with each turn of the page. This is a story that will linger on your mind, long after you’re done  with it.

I give a clean 4.7/5 for this novel. (5 stars on Amazon). Chitra Padmana's work is promising; looking forward to her next one with bated breath already, pun intended.

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