In the glittering reflection of the serene and tranquil backwaters of Kochi lies a city pulsating with an undercurrent of tension, deception, and the echoes of unresolved vendettas. This is where V.M. Devadas's crime saga, "The Boar Hunt," immerses readers in the gritty and enigmatic world of post-Emergency India, specifically the turbulent 1980s. Against the backdrop of a seemingly idyllic landscape, Devadas skillfully weaves a tale of bitter rivalries, revolt, and rage, creating a narrative that is both intensely gripping and hauntingly atmospheric. While the book keeps the historical development in the background, the author intelligently explores the happenings surrounding the event that may not have gotten the rightful representation.

The narrative unfolds with a mysterious character, Grusha, introducing an element of unpredictability by initiating a deadly game of Russian roulette. This sets the stage for a riveting exploration of the complex web of relationships and conflicts that define the lives of those entangled in Kochi's dark underbelly. Former gang members, sworn rivals, and uneasy alliances resurface their hunger for revenge and justice palpable as they navigate the treacherous waters of power and deceit. The setting, characterisation and narrative pace of the novel are some of the key elements that keep the readers interested and glued to the text as the author unfolds the narrative.

Devadas employs vivid and evocative language to paint a multifaceted portrait of Kochi in "The Boar Hunt." The juxtaposition of the sparkling blue backwaters with the simmering tension in the air serves as a metaphor for the dichotomy between the city's serene exterior and its tumultuous undercurrents. The author's descriptive prowess creates an immersive experience, allowing readers to feel the pulse of the city and the weight of its secrets.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its unapologetic intensity. Devadas does not shy away from delving into the twisted and tragic fates of the characters he introduces. The stakes are high, and nothing is guaranteed, especially the prospect of survival. This sense of unpredictability keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, engrossed in the unfolding drama and invested in the outcomes of the characters' choices. He presents facts true to themselves without twisting them, ensuring that readers understand life the way it is. With the plethora of characters present, "The Boar Hunt" takes the readers into a different universe where even when being involved in the action, they are also observers of the events and happenings.

The characters themselves are meticulously crafted, each bearing the scars of their pasts and carrying the burden of their own motivations. The author masterfully explores the intricacies of human nature, showcasing the gray areas between right and wrong. Former gang members navigating alliances and once-sworn rivals finding themselves on the same side – these dynamics add layers to the narrative, making it more than a conventional crime saga. It becomes a study of human resilience, the consequences of choices, and the enduring impact of shared histories. The book is recommended to all readers who are interested in reading an entertaining tale that keeps them on their toes and ignites their imagination about the world that once existed and impacted people’s lives to a large extent.