Genre: Thriller
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 327
Published: August 2019
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Summary:
A dazed young woman is found on the streets of Mumbai. Assumed to be a beggar woman and addled with drugs, she reveals that she is the reality show winner who was presumed dead three years ago. There are quite a few people who want her to remain dead. The down and out journalist Avniel who rose to fame penning her autobiography. The politician Kamini who used the competition as a stepping stone to success. The runner-up Tanya who wore the victor’s crown. The ex-husband Rudra who is out for revenge.
Nobody’s Child is an exhilarating & chilling story about the dark side of fame.
Review:
Money, power, fame, morally corrupt characters, unscrupulous media, and trial by social media. One man’s misery is another man’s ticket to success. Combine all these with a crisp, tight plot, and you have a winner. Nobody’s Child by Kanchana Banerjee is quite a page-turner. There is never a dull moment where ambitious women and men stop at nothing. Murder is but just a means to an end.
The book follows the story of a reality show winner who has resurfaced after being declared dead three years ago. Following a non-linear narrative, the book is narrated in the first person by the primary characters. It switches between the past (building-up to the incident) and the present (exploring the repercussions of her resurfacing) all with effortless ease.
Reality shows are not about talent anymore. Were they ever? The perfect rags to riches story with the right amount of controversy. Controversies that are created and milked to the tee. Nothing is sacred where TRPs rule. Doing anything and everything to get the cash registers ringing. The book explores the dark side of reality shows and the people associated with it.
Money, power, fame, morally corrupt characters, and unscrupulous media. All that with a crisp, tight plot, and you have a winner. Nobody’s Child by @justkanchana Book Review #BohoPonderings #MyFriendAlexa Share on XThe characters are all well etched with most of them are morally depraved. No goody two shoes here. I particularly liked Kamini’s character. Reminded me of Brooke Logan from The Bold and the Beautiful series. The writing style is lucid and there is a generous use of the vernacular. Cuss words and all.
Graphic descriptions of torture are not my cup of tea. I did find a few sections of the book a bit too disturbing. If you can read past that, this is a book you should pick up next.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it. It has all the makings of a great Netflix series. Kanchana is my new favorite author for Indian mysteries and thrillers. I cannot wait to read her next book.
Trigger warning: Graphic content, rape, torture, human trafficking
Nobody’s Child is available for purchase at Amazon India
This review has been written as part of the Blogchatter Book Review Program. I received the review copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I am taking my blog to the next level with Blogchatter’s #MyFriendAlexa.
About the author
Kanchana Banerjee lives in Gurgaon with her husband Sandeep and her three boys Rohan, Archie & Casper. In another life, she used to write for various publications and companies, now she is a full-time author. When not writing, she enjoys gardening and playing with her dogs. Nobody’s Child is her second book.
September 2, 2019 @ 3:06 pm
True! Reality shows are not about talent anymore. The book seems to be interesting and your review is compelling me to read the book:)
September 2, 2019 @ 3:28 pm
Thank you Srishti 🙂 I highly recommend it. The book was unputdownable!
September 5, 2019 @ 1:35 am
Seems Interesting but as you said, graphic illustrations are disturbing…so not my cup of tea… Amazing way of reviewing though. I liked it.
September 2, 2019 @ 9:47 pm
This seems like an interesting read! added to my TBR. Thanks for the recco.
September 3, 2019 @ 2:59 pm
My pleasure. Do share your thoughts.
September 3, 2019 @ 12:01 am
I am not sure if I would be able to handle the graphic situations either. Graphic action, sure… but not torture.
September 3, 2019 @ 3:01 pm
I totally get that. It is a great pick if you can get past it. My previous read Laundry Girl 2.0 probably primed me up for this one.
September 3, 2019 @ 4:39 pm
The storyline you described seems very appealing and your review is very interesting and i think it did justice with the book
September 3, 2019 @ 5:24 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 3, 2019 @ 4:06 pm
This book review made me curious to get it and read more …Thanks for sharing !!
September 3, 2019 @ 5:24 pm
My pleasure 🙂. Do share your thoughts when you get to the book.
September 4, 2019 @ 8:27 am
This book looks so interesting and realistic. The reality shows always intrigue me that are they realistic or scripted. I guess this book would have the answers. Thanks for sharing an honest review.
September 4, 2019 @ 7:04 pm
Oh my ! I loved your review of this book. I am a newbie book reviewer and your style of writing has inspired me.
September 3, 2019 @ 10:03 pm
I really have a pile of books waiting to be read! And you just added one more to the list How am I supposed to keep up with this writing and reading? I have bookmarked this post and will certainly pick this one up!
September 3, 2019 @ 10:31 pm
I hear you :). My TBR pile is bursting at the seams and that does not stop me from adding more.
September 4, 2019 @ 1:14 pm
I have a small list of books TBR,and this one is added to the list after reading this amazing review. Seems a great book to have coffee with
September 4, 2019 @ 8:23 am
This actually sounds like exactly the kind of book I’d love to read 🙂 i enjoy such mysteries especially with non linear narratives slowly pulling the layers away
September 4, 2019 @ 8:27 am
The book is based on reality, the ongoing quest for power and control, kudos to the author who captivated current scenario #millennialscribbler
September 4, 2019 @ 8:39 am
Nobody’s child looks like a perfect read and the way you have described the plot is literally amazing
September 4, 2019 @ 5:46 pm
Thank you Nitya 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 8:57 am
Book reviews are difficult to master, should be neither too much nor too little, you seem to have achieved the balance
September 4, 2019 @ 5:47 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Pooja 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 9:00 am
Thoroughly enjoyed the review. Looking forward to reading the book now
September 4, 2019 @ 5:48 pm
Thank you, Sonia :). Do share your thoughts.
September 4, 2019 @ 9:04 am
Not my kinda book, looks like.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:49 pm
We all have our deal-breakers. I cannot read a BDSM to save my life.
September 4, 2019 @ 9:37 am
I’m a true blue bibliophile and this book is just perfect! I love mysteries and the blurb is inviting. Great review, I think the book is apt for the modern age! Happy Alexa month.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:50 pm
Thank you, Shalini :). A Happy Alexa month to you too. This is my first ever challenge and I am truly enjoying it. Some great reads there.
September 4, 2019 @ 9:41 am
Your review is tempting me to get the book and read immediately 🙂
#MyFriendAlexa
#AditiReads
aditikapur.com
September 4, 2019 @ 9:42 am
Your review is tempting me to get the book and read immediately:)
#MyFriendAlexa
#AditiReads
aditikapur.com
September 4, 2019 @ 9:56 am
Sounds like a good read.But i am not good at dealing with graphic part.Will try anyway.Maybe its the right time.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:53 pm
It is always good to pick reads out of our comfort zone. As long as we don’t force ourselves. Two years back, I probably would not have been able to read the book.
September 4, 2019 @ 10:47 am
This review is so well-written. I will be buying the book soon!
September 4, 2019 @ 5:54 pm
Thank you Brindha 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 10:56 am
Really enjoyed reading your review of this book and the theme is also interesting. I will add this book to my TBR list.
September 5, 2019 @ 11:21 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 11:01 am
Nice Review and Description.
i should read this book
i enjoyed it so much
September 5, 2019 @ 11:21 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 11:05 am
Nicely done. I am not very fond of thrillers but this seems interesting…especially that it is narrated in a non linear way. #thatchedroofreads #MyFriendAlexa
September 5, 2019 @ 11:22 pm
Thank you, Ninu 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 11:06 am
OMG gave me chills. Looks like actually a good thriller plot for Netflix series. I think I want to read this book.
#MyFriendAlexa #momlearningwithbaby #Blogchatter
September 4, 2019 @ 4:09 pm
The review sounds interesting. I do like reading, so this is gonna be on my reading list now.
September 4, 2019 @ 11:07 am
I read her first book and it was indeed interesting. Your review now tempts me to buy her second book too!
September 4, 2019 @ 11:24 am
This looks like an interesting read. Enjoyed reading your review… 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 11:20 pm
Thank you:) I enjoyed bringing it to you.
September 4, 2019 @ 11:47 am
I love suspense reads… will surely check out this book. Your review has made me curious
September 4, 2019 @ 11:58 am
Though i am not a great fan of fiction but enjoyed reading your review. it came out as a very balanced one and not laced with “what could have made it better” types. the storyline is quite relatable and your review did make it come alive a bit 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 11:19 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Narinder 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 12:23 pm
An interesting plot! Somehow reminded me of Shobha De’s storylines. You’ve mentioned the lead character’s resemblance to Brooke Logan, oh,my, that sure triggered some ol’ memories! I loved your crisp and unbiased review, your blog is definitely a find, this #MyFriendAlexa season!
September 4, 2019 @ 5:59 pm
The show was a craze back then, It triggered some old memories for me too. Particularly when Kamini’s character mused that she was more Brooke Logan than Caroline Forrester and mighty proud of it.
September 4, 2019 @ 7:01 pm
The storyline looks very interesting. I haven’t read on such a topic. Your review gives a clear picture what should I expect from the book, thanks for such a ho eat review.
September 4, 2019 @ 10:42 pm
As a long time reality TV fan, this plot line look quite intriguing to me. Definitely checking this out when I haul next set of books to read
September 5, 2019 @ 11:18 pm
Thank you Mahek 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 1:10 pm
I am not really sure if I can finish this book but I am in awe of the way you write a book review- that is exactly what I would want to read before reading any book! 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 11:17 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Sushmita 🙂 I am overwhelmed.
September 4, 2019 @ 1:16 pm
Definitely sounds like an extremely enjoyable thriller. In TBR list. I love thrillers and this one sound like just the right book for me.
September 4, 2019 @ 1:43 pm
That’s a great review. Very balanced. I’ve seen Kanchana around on Twitter. Never got to reading her. But the plot is tempting. I will probably pick it up.
September 4, 2019 @ 1:44 pm
Sounds like a really interesting book! I already have it sitting in my amazon cart, just waiting for the hubby to add his shopping list so I can hit tjay order button!
September 4, 2019 @ 3:57 pm
Usually I am not very fond of suspense/thriller kind of books and movies but yeah, I would love to know more about dark side of reality shows and your review took me a step closer to have a read of this interesting book.thanks for sharing.
September 5, 2019 @ 11:16 pm
That is fabulous, Shinjini. Looking forward to reading your thoughts on the book.
September 4, 2019 @ 1:45 pm
That’s a great review. Very balanced. I’m tempted to read. Already wondering who has the biggest reason to take revenge.
September 5, 2019 @ 11:15 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Sonia :). They are all morally corrupt, you would have a hard time guessing.
September 4, 2019 @ 1:50 pm
I am currently reading this one. So curious to know what happens. I liked how you mentioned all the elements without revealing too much of the plot.
September 5, 2019 @ 11:14 pm
Giving out spoilers is the worst. Looking forward to reading your thoughts about the book.
September 4, 2019 @ 2:22 pm
i love the story line would certainly read the novel. adding it to my TBR list
September 4, 2019 @ 2:49 pm
Bookmarking your book review for future. I am in the middle of reading 3 books from different genres at the moment. Would love to take a look at this one after finishing the ones in hand.
Good luck,
Surbhi #surreads
https://prettymummasays.com
September 5, 2019 @ 11:12 pm
We be kindred spirits then :). At any time, I read three or more books picking the genre based on my mood.
September 4, 2019 @ 3:10 pm
After reading your review, i am sure the book is a must read. Hope i can get down to reading it soon. Thanks 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 3:18 pm
Engrossing review of an engrossing book. Your review is indeed incisive and articulate. Love the way you have brought out the plot!
September 5, 2019 @ 11:11 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Pallavi 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 3:20 pm
the book seems to be gripping and your review is wonder. I love to read. Adding this to my TBR list.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:59 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Simrit 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 3:24 pm
This review calls to just go and grab the book.
When i read about the beggar turned model i started thinking what had happened,
indeed it is the dark side of fame. Will read for sure.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:59 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Pragun 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 3:29 pm
This seems like an interesting read.
The true facts about Reality shows .
September 4, 2019 @ 3:57 pm
This seems like an interesting read! Definitely going to get my hands on this! #sandalreads
September 4, 2019 @ 4:47 pm
your review increase my curiosity about the book, seems interesting
September 4, 2019 @ 4:58 pm
appealing book review.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:03 pm
This book sounds very intriguing.Looking forward to reading it.I love thrillers.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:58 pm
Thank you Sarika 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 5:22 pm
The cover piqued my interest and your review enhanced it further more. Will buy a copy of the book soon. Good review, Ritu.
PS: Nice to find a book blogger to follow for more interesting books.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:58 pm
The plot is very contemporary and indeed a life behind the scenes can be interesting to read; even though not my reading genre but your review got me tempted.great work
September 5, 2019 @ 10:57 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Rohan. 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 5:27 pm
A thriller! Not that I read the genre but it is indeed a gripping tale. Could be made into a bollywood movie! Wonder who can play the lead role?
September 5, 2019 @ 10:56 pm
Ah, now that calls for some discussion. Who would you rather?
September 4, 2019 @ 5:40 pm
Nicely reviewed this book. The book looks really appealing through your words.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:55 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 5:46 pm
Agreed!! One man’s misery is another man’s ticket to success. Curious to know about the dark side of reality shows.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:46 pm
The book surely seems interesting with plots around a reality show, ugly side of politics and thrills as mentioned in your review. Looking forward to read it sometime soon.
September 4, 2019 @ 5:55 pm
The plot is very contemporary and indeed a life behind the scenes can be interesting to read; even though not my reading genre but your review got me tempted.great work
September 4, 2019 @ 7:30 pm
That’s such a compelling review and I would say an ‘eye-opening’ read.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:53 pm
Thanks you, ladies 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 6:36 pm
the books looks great the review seems interesting will sure check out …waiting up for next post #simireades
September 4, 2019 @ 6:39 pm
What a thrilling start to this review, I would love to read this over a rainy weekend here. I like such thriller fiction stories, thanks for sharing. #gleefulreads
September 5, 2019 @ 10:53 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 6:39 pm
An intriguing thriller book review 🙂 The book seems like an interesting read!
#MyFriendAlexa #vigorousreads
September 4, 2019 @ 6:41 pm
An intriguing thriller book review. Looks like an interesting piece of read!
#MyFriendAlexa #vigorousreads
September 4, 2019 @ 9:06 pm
Wow! I like thrillers. The book narrations are far more interesting and thrilling than the movies they make out of them. Thanks for sharing. I might give this one a read the review is so appealing and convincing at the same time.#MyFriendAlexa #CloudandSunshineReads
September 5, 2019 @ 10:52 pm
Thank you for your kind words 🙂 I agree about books over movies. Series still do manage to do a bit of justice.
September 4, 2019 @ 6:43 pm
Sounds like a real pot-boiler and your review has tempted me to order this one. #wordsmithkaurreads #BlogChatter #MyFriendAlexa
September 4, 2019 @ 7:54 pm
This looks like a good adventurous read. I enjoy thrillers and this sounds too good. Will add this to my TBR
September 4, 2019 @ 8:09 pm
I’m looking forward to reading this one. #ReadByPRB
September 4, 2019 @ 8:38 pm
Kanchana’s first book was quite a read and going by your review this one too sounds very interesting. Adding to my TBR
September 5, 2019 @ 10:50 pm
I haven’t read A Forgotten Affair yet. Do plan to pick it up soon.
September 4, 2019 @ 9:05 pm
Reading a book is such a personal journey. I can see why you enjoyed it but I really didn’t like this book. Always interesting to see another perspective!
September 5, 2019 @ 10:49 pm
Sorry to hear that Noor. But I guess that is what reading is all about. Thank you for being honest. We all connect to a book differently. There are a few that I have struggled with, particularly Good Omens and American Gods. And people cannot stop raving about them.
September 4, 2019 @ 9:08 pm
I have read a lot of reviews about this book but your review has shown me the real worth of this book. Specially the line “money, power, fame…,” looks like it perfectly describes the book. I will pick this book real soon.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:44 pm
Thank you Paresh 🙂 I had the pleasure of checking out your blog today and loved your unique style for reviews.
September 4, 2019 @ 9:22 pm
The book seems to be quite interesting. After reading your review I am curious to read it. #ShubhraReads
September 4, 2019 @ 10:31 pm
I have grown up reading thriller and now it is an immense pleasure to accept that I am a reviewer. I liked your honest review about his book. Wish I could see some graphic photos before I gt the book to read.
September 4, 2019 @ 11:19 pm
The book is indeed compelling where very few talk about the dark side of the reality show. Your review has compelled me to pick this up next.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:43 pm
I am really glad it did. Do share your thoughts.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:42 pm
Thank you, Geethica 🙂 It means a lot coming from you.
September 4, 2019 @ 10:52 pm
What i felt about book, you had summed up in the end. I mean, I had felt that book has perfect script for a great netflex series and I loved all the drama and story line..seems like an interesting read. you had shared honest and perfect review. #MyfriendAlexa #Surbhireads
September 5, 2019 @ 10:41 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Surbhi :). It does have all the makings of a Netflix series.
September 4, 2019 @ 10:59 pm
This plot is so gripping and I’m adding this to my TBR right away. #tmmreads #myfriendalexa
September 4, 2019 @ 11:02 pm
Your book review is definitely honest and appealing and tempts me to get my hands on this book.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:39 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 11:10 pm
I’m glad I stumbled on your blog. I would love to read all your reviews. Amazing find. I don’t often read a book from this genre – will definitely think about it. Thanks for the succinct review.
September 5, 2019 @ 4:32 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Resha 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 11:40 pm
I am definitely reading this book as I am a sucker for thrillers. This book review is very well written and is making me want to order the book immediately
September 5, 2019 @ 10:38 pm
Thank you for your kind words, Ginia 🙂
September 4, 2019 @ 11:53 pm
Loved your book review. I am actually not a fan of such dark mysteries/thrillers but the way you have written the review tempts me to go and purchase the book.
#readbypreetispanorama
September 5, 2019 @ 10:38 pm
Thank your Preeti 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 12:23 am
Though I am not a book reader , but the review of this book makes me curious to read more about it.
September 5, 2019 @ 2:54 am
Sounds like a wonderful plot.. loved your to the point and crisp review…. I will definitely check it out
September 5, 2019 @ 10:37 pm
Thank you 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 6:18 am
Aha, reality shows and their after effects, and the winner is presumed dead. The story backdrop sounds interesting, thanks for detailed review.
September 5, 2019 @ 10:16 am
woow loved the review and the book
September 5, 2019 @ 4:23 pm
Thank you, Vidhya 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 1:38 pm
reality shows are nothing but the mine of money. nobody knows how they select the winner. after reading summary and review I am curious to read the book.
September 5, 2019 @ 4:30 pm
looks like an interesting book, life actually takes unprecedented twists and turns many times. will surely read this.
September 5, 2019 @ 6:13 pm
You made me want badly to read the book 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 9:05 pm
Sadly, everything is about money, TRPs and fame. This seems like an interesting book. I might read it (after September of course!). Thrillers happen to be my favourite genre! Thanks for sharing. Found your blog through #MyFriendAlexa campaign. 🙂
September 5, 2019 @ 10:38 pm
This month is bit hectic but yes ! If I will get time I think I am going read this one. Thank for the review #journeysays
September 6, 2019 @ 12:30 am
The storyline that you have shared seems quite interesting .Will definitely pick this one in coming month.
September 6, 2019 @ 6:00 am
From your review it looks like a great book to read! Very well described.
September 6, 2019 @ 11:22 am
Thank you 🙂
September 7, 2019 @ 10:09 am
The book seems very interesting! Thanks for the review 🙂
September 7, 2019 @ 5:20 pm
I have been eyeing this book since before it’s release. Your review only spiked up my temptation. Hoping to quickly finish the current read and jump to this. Btw, have you read Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine? It’s my current read. M finding difficult to keep through it. Had it not been so so recommended would have kept it down long back. #MyFriendAlexa2019 #LiveItYoungReads
September 7, 2019 @ 6:22 pm
Thank you Rashi :). No I haven’t read Eleanor Oliphant yet although I do plan to pick it up soon. I completely get it when a highly recommended book does not work for you. Good Omens had rave reviews and I struggled to get through the book. Had it not been a book club pick, I would have DNF-ed it.
Try going for an audio book instead. I often do that if it is a book I really want to read but have a hard time getting into it. I think it is available on Storytel.
September 9, 2019 @ 6:04 pm
Thank you for sharing this, your page is gonna surely help me in buying my new book:)
September 11, 2019 @ 7:03 pm
I am glad to hear (read) that, Arti,
September 9, 2019 @ 6:57 pm
Liked you perspective on the book. I have got a copy too. Would be sharing the link pretty soon. Keep going.
#ContemplationOfaJoker #Jokerophilia #MyFriendAlexa
September 11, 2019 @ 7:05 pm
Thank you Manas. Looking forward to reading your review.
September 18, 2019 @ 2:59 pm
Wow, 4 and a half star, I have to pick this book up in my next visit to the book store. I am a fan of thriller and suspense reads.