Maya, Dead and Dreaming by Lana Sabarwal

 Maya, Dead and Dreaming by Lana Sabarwal

"Maya, Dead and Dreaming" is a slow-burn literary mystery. As I read the first letter, the first chapter of the book, I was captivated by the storyline. It made me think and foster a path to find out why it all happened.

The story begins with Munna Dhingra, whose quiet life is put into a frenzy by a memory of her deceased friend. After fourteen years of her friend's death, Munna begins to dream about her. It feels as if Maya is haunting Munna or something else.

The journey of discovery of Munna about the strange or mysterious drowning of Maya unfolds many layers of truths. This leads to the transformation of many characters' perspectives. I was amazed at the entry of Karenina, a psychoanalyst, and her intuitive ability to uncover hidden facts is commendable. The partnership of Munna and Karenina feels both authentic and engaging.

Quote from the book that piqued me:

💓"Karenina said ruminatively, "Because i am mad about women. I am mad about the hills. Said that wild old, wicked man who travels where God wills. How do things turn wicked?"

💓"Someone killed her in anger. I thought we were going to encounter people angry at Maya. But we have only been encountering people Maya was angry with: Josh, Shelly, Frank, Ian. Why was she so angry?"

The author has meticulously penned the perspectives of close ones and the toxic gossips of nearby people that could make your identity wither away. She portrays the power of the mind and its willpower to solve the puzzles. She has vividly presented the web of jealousy, betrayal, and forbidden relationships in a tight-knit community.

Overall, it is a psychological puzzle that keeps you intrigued till the end.

Purchase here.