If there’s one thing I love about reading, it’s the thrill of being caught in a mystery so deep, so complex, that it keeps me on the edge of my seat until the very last page. As a fan of thrillers, I often find myself reaching for books that promise that heart-pounding rush, especially when I’m in a reading slump. This time, it was Aperture: A Janardan Maity Mystery by Bhaskar Chattopadhyay that served as the perfect antidote. My first encounter with Chattopadhyay’s work left me not only impressed but also craving more.
From the very first chapter, Aperture drew me in with its rich cultural backdrop. Set against the vivid and bustling city of Kolkata, the book exudes a charm that is distinctly Indian. The moment I began reading, I could almost feel the pulse of the city, the scents of street food wafting through the air, the sounds of a city that never sleeps. There’s something profoundly captivating about a story that can transport you to a place so vividly, and Chattopadhyay does this effortlessly.
The title, Aperture, couldn’t have been more fitting. Just as an aperture in photography allows light to filter in, revealing hidden details, this book lets us peek into a world teeming with secrets. The plot centers around Janardan Maity, an ingenious detective whose keen mind and unyielding tenacity make him a force to be reckoned with. Maity is a man who trusts his instincts, often saying, “Hunches are an integral part of the puzzle-solving process. One mustn’t ignore them.” This insight into his method of deduction sets the tone for a mystery that is anything but straightforward.
The story kicks off with a young photographer visiting Maity late at night, armed with photographic evidence of a murder. The catch? The photographer had been spying on the occupants of a hotel opposite his apartment—an act that in itself is ethically dubious. Despite the murky circumstances, Maity takes on the case, leading us on a cat-and-mouse chase. The suspense is palpable, with every turn of the page pulling us deeper into a web of intrigue.
One of the aspects that stood out to me the most was the dynamic between Maity and his close friend, Prakash Ray, who also serves as the book’s narrator. Their camaraderie adds a layer of warmth and simplicity to the otherwise tense narrative. Prakash is more than just a sidekick; he’s a grounding force for Maity, someone who balances out the detective’s intensity with his brand of insight and writer’s instinct. The relationship between these two men is portrayed with such authenticity that it feels real, almost as if you’re sitting in the room with them, watching the mystery unfold.
As Maity and Prakash dig deeper into the case, what initially seemed like an open-and-shut murder investigation quickly spirals into something far more complex. The narrative is crisp, the pacing impeccable, and the characters—each with their own secrets and motivations—are masterfully crafted. Chattopadhyay’s ability to maintain a sense of foreboding throughout the novel is a testament to his skill as a storyteller. There’s an edge to the writing that keeps you constantly guessing, wondering who can be trusted and who is hiding something darker.
One of the most brilliant aspects of Aperture is how it plays with the concept of voyeurism. The idea of peering into the lives of strangers, of seeing things that aren’t meant to be seen, adds a layer of psychological tension that is both unsettling and fascinating. This book offers something extra—a twist that is both unexpected and cleverly executed. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Chattopadhyay throws in a curveball that leaves you questioning everything you’ve read up to that point.
Yet, as much as I loved the journey, I must admit that the ending left me with mixed feelings. While the final twist was undoubtedly clever, the end kind of felt a bit slow. There were lingering questions—loose ends that weren’t fully tied up. Perhaps this was intentional, a way to hint at more to come in future instalments featuring Janardan Maity and our Moriarty in the making. If that’s the case, then I can hardly wait to see what Chattopadhyay has in store for us next.
Despite this minor quibble, Aperture is a thriller that deserves attention. It’s not just the mystery that makes this book so compelling, but the way Chattopadhyay weaves together the elements of suspense, character development, and cultural richness. The characters, especially Maity and Prakash, are vividly brought to life, each one adding depth to the narrative. And the city of Kolkata itself becomes a character in its own right, its energy and vibrancy seeping into every page.
Aperture: A Janardan Maity Mystery is a must-read for any thriller enthusiast. It’s a book that challenges your perceptions, keeps you guessing, and leaves you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Janardan Maity’s detective career. Bhaskar Chattopadhyay has crafted a tale that is not only gripping but also deeply engaging, with a protagonist who is as flawed as he is brilliant. So, if you’re in the mood for a mystery that will keep you up at night, I highly recommend giving Aperture a read.
Aperture: A Janardan Maity Mystery
Hope you enjoyed reading the book review of Aperture by Bhaskar Chattopadhyay
Until next time, friends!
An internationally accredited book blogger, voracious reader and the founder of Booxoul, one of India’s leading book and lifestyle blogs, Neelam is a person with a penchant for bringing out the best in people. A website designer, a renowned book blogger and a leading creative influencer on Instagram, here is a lady who is candid, closer to life and sensitive to the softest of emotions…
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