Indian expat’s new novel depicts eternal relation between man and the unknown

MUSCAT: Santhosh Gangadharan offers his readers the opportunity to toy with the innumerable labyrinths within the conscious and the subconscious human mind with his new book

Cleverly disguised within the folds of a plot, part fiction, part history, is a subtle depiction of the eternal relation between man and the unknown. From an ambitious expedition into space, the readers are led on a wild journey, hopping back and forth between time frames, countries, cultures and, personalities.

This new novel by Santhosh Gangadharan - the second work by this long-time Sohar resident - takes place in sixteenth century Oman and India, when the Portuguese started their imperialistic conquests in the region on the pretext of trade.

The story follows the hopes and aspirations of a peaceful, loving farming family in Liwa until a stranger sweeps the daughter off her feet. Fallen head-over-heels for this mysterious man, she is torn between her love for him and for her family. As the story deftly reveals, the mystery man comes with his share of problems. In no time, they are forced to elope to the faraway land of India. But as destiny would have it, the father, mother and child become separated from each other.

The suspenseful writing keeps the readers on the edge and turning pages fast. The book is a must-read for all Omanis to know more about the history of their land. Every reader is promised with an engaging, exciting journey through time, culture and heritage.

The author, Santhosh Gangadharan, has been living in Sohar for 18 years.