Afterlight-Book Review

Afterlight is a story that gyrates around the 'City of Den' and its inhabitants. Set in a dystopia, the novel depicts the struggle and journey of different characters that build the plot. The kingdom is not only plagued with autocracy and injustice but is also under constant threat of swiggers, the vampires that dwell in the dense forest that surround the city and is parted by an armored wall.

Sayra, a young girl is the protagonist who detests herself. She is a burden to her family and hence is desperate to set herself free by passing the royal Den guard selection test.

 Novel by Aditya Mewar

Aaron is the only solace in her life. He is a dear friend who always supports her and makes her feel special. She is seventeen now and is all set to experience the 'Blossoming Ceremony' where youths of the city are bound to go through the test of Worthiness and Unworthiness. As per the royal regulation 25% of the people who fail the test  are not allowed to marry and breed. The rule aims to control the population of the City of Den and protect humanity from the 'mist disease'.

The Blossoming ceremony becomes the link that leads to the unraveling of the main plot- full of action, surprises and drama.

As the story gains pace,the the mystery of the unconquered and dreadful world of swiggers comes to the fore. Who are swiggers and what are their motives become clear and narrative becomes intriguing.

The readers find the disparate strands of the story slowly joining in.

Kol, the prince is portrayed well as a villain in the story who never fails to show his brutish side. He enjoys killing games and human lives of his people mean nothing to him. In contrast, out in the forest amidst all the beasts who are bereft of any emotions and feed on human blood, it is Sorrow a little vampire girl who is at variance with her community and acts as a savior of humanity.

Major general Shor Scarletor, Alastair, Tara and not to forget Ben and his rebel group are other important characters that set the story into motion and hold the plot firmly together. Further,  the entry of Jake and his team in the last section of the story adds an intriguing element of suspense and thrill that hooks the readers interest.

The battle between the Kol's army and Jake and the unexpected attack of swiggers lead to much action at the end of the story. The concluding part of the story seems no less than that of a fantasy movie's end.

All in all the story is worth a read. The author, Aditya Mewati has narrated his story in an interesting way. Although there are few glitches that at times take away the impact, the novel in its entirety- the plot, characters, emotions and actions is well-developed and has a deftly wrapped up end.

The story is entertaining with powerful and action-packed conclusion which is the real corker of the novel. So, if you enjoy fantasy and fiction that you can definitely try your hands at it!