Book Review

A story brimming with strength and courage despite insurmountable odds.

The Fragile Thread of Hope (Release Date: November 2017)

In the autumn of 2012, destiny wreaks havoc on two unsuspecting people—Soham and Fiona.

Although his devastating past involving his brother still haunted him, Soham had established a promising career for himself in Bangalore.

After a difficult childhood, Fiona’s fortunes had finally taken a turn for the better. She had married her beloved, and her life was as perfect as she had ever imagined it to be.

But when tragedy strikes them yet again, their fundamentally fragile lives threaten to fall apart.

Can Fiona and Soham overcome their grief?

Will the overwhelming pain destroy their lives?

Seasoned with the flavours of exotic Nepalese traditions and set in the picturesque Indian hill station, Gangtok, The Fragile Thread of Hope explores the themes of spirituality, faith, alcoholism, love, and guilt while navigating the complex maze of familial relationships.

My Thoughts…

This is not an easy book to read. It’s sad! A heartbreaking, gut-wrenching kind of sad. But if you can handle it, it’s also very beautiful.

My favourite part about this book is how the author describes rich cultural traditions. Everything from religion to mouth-watering dishes is described with such flourish and detail, you are instantly transported to exotic Nepal and it’s wonderful.

The story itself is primarily about loss and the extreme challenges the main characters need to overcome in order to find meaning and hope in their lives. It is indeed very sad, but it’s conveyed well and with meaning. The fundamental message being, that despite their odds they can find hope again.

There was one thing however, that I didn’t care for. Soham and Fiona’s story are both told in different time periods, with lots of hopping back and forth. I do enjoy stories told in this manner but in this case, it happened A LOT and it could get quite choppy at times. I still enjoyed the story, I just wish the transitions were a little smoother.

Overall, “The Fragile Thread of Hope” was a solid book, steeped in tradition and lovely prose.

Rating… B

“Pankaj’s characters certainly evoke sympathy and throw light on important social issues. A good read.” Chitra Divakaruni, award-winning bestselling author of The Palace of Illusions.

“An epic tale of love, loss, hope and faith that will remain with you long after the final page. With its lovely characters and beautiful prose, it ranks right up there with my favourites.” Renita D’Silva, award-nominated bestselling author of The Forgotten Daughter.

“A literary masterpiece!” Keshav Aneel, bestselling author of Promise Me A Million Times.