"A Flight of Broken Wigs", by Nupur Chowdhury

A Fantasy novel

Book #1, in the Aeriel Chronicles

This is a story with interesting concepts that pulled me right out of my comfort zone. I am not a huge fan of fantasy/sci-fi but from time to time I give this genre a go and let my mind be transported in an imaginary world right out of the twilight zone.

“A Flight of Broken Wings” narrates the story of a world in which Aeriels (winged immortal beings of energy) and Humans (Hunters) are enemies. It is said in the third person and shift points of views throughout the story. It opens rather slowly and follows Ruban Kinoh, a well-respected Hunter, on his mission to protect the new, enhance weapon formula from Tauheen and her minions.

The author builds the story and the characters in details and keeps a steady pace throughout adding new characters, events and many chases along the way. The dynamic character development creates clear heroes and adversaries. Ms. Chowdhury's vivid description brings her creation to life, everything is magical: towns, cities, the adventure, and the characters we meet. There is also a darker side, horror and brutality is hinted throughout.

At times, the narrative is really long and with the unfamiliar names and locals keeping focus and interest was a challenge. If it weren’t for the action and the unravelling of Ruben’s investigation and how all ties together I might have given up mid-way.

This mix of fantasy with element of Indian culture, sci-fi and mystery is not for everyone but is you like a good fantasy with Aeriels coming from another realm in the sky with beautiful wings waging on earth a centuries old war, this book is for you. For myself this story left me with mixed feelings at times loving it and in other letting my mind meander....