The Remains of The Buddha

Author : Ratnadip Acharya

Publisher: Australia publication

Format : Paperback

Genre : Fiction

My Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

My Take

No matter what you gain or lose, materially or emotionally , it must not disturb your inner peace. You must always be in a state of tranquil blissfulness.

The Remains of the Buddha is a historical thriller that blends history and spirituality , with elements of mystery.  The story follows the quest to find a long lost Artefact that is believed to be connected to some secrets buried deep  in the stupas along with the mortal remains of Lord Buddha.  There are three sets of people, Edward Peppe a foreigner, Jampa Jinhai, a Tibetan farmer, and Saikat along with Shuvashini, all of them with distinct motives to unearth the secrets. Who is successful? remains undisclosed until the climax of the story.

The book explores the life and teachings of lord Buddha. Beginning with his birth as prince Siddharth Gautham, his journey to enlightenment, his teachings,  and finally his death. The author’s extensive research on Buddhism is evident in the way he explains its concepts, providing an enlightening perspective for readers. The book showcases previously unknown facts about Lord Buddha and King Ashoka, shedding light on intriguing aspects that were not widely known.

The author effortlessly juggles two different timelines, past and present, creating a narrative that readers can follow with ease. The inclusion of various images and illustrations provides a clear picture of what the protagonists are searching for in the story. Saikat and Shuvashini peel the layers of mystery, decoding symbols and connecting the dots one at a time, making the journey truly exciting.

The illustrations, images, and inscription all play a significant role in providing visual representations of the story, enhancing the reader’s experience with vivid and meaningful imagery. The book contains insightful quotes that can be treasured for future contemplation and inspiration.

Having read all books from this author, I’ve become a fan of his due to the gripping concepts and seamless narration that consistently draws me in. The author’s expertise in writing historical thrillers is evident and grips the readers until the end.

My Verdict

A book that skillfully blends facts and fiction, offering a captivating mix of life lessons, suspense and thrills, engrossing readers in a fantastic and an enthralling literary experience.