Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy Who would be King | Abhijeeth Hiliyana | Book Review | Indian Historical Fiction
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana is the part 1 of his “Krishna Deva Raya Book Series”. This book narrates the story of the initial years of famous Indian King, Krishna Deva Raya of Kingdom Vijayanagar. So, read the book summary, release date, genre, age rating, book quotes, and book review of Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana in this post below.
About Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana:
No. of Pages: 304
Publication Date: July 22, 2022 by Hachette India
Genre: Historical Fiction, Indian History, Myths, Legends, Sagas
Series: Krishna Deva Raya Part 1
Reading Age: Teen and above
Can be read as a standalone? YES
Buy From: AMAZON
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Summary:
Krishna Deva Raya is one of the most prominent Kings in Indian history. Tales of his valour, just decisions, and fierce loyalty to his kingdom have been shared down through generations. In this book, we meet a younger Krishna as he traverses treachery, danger, and highly volatile situations on his journey to become a King people loved. Along the way, we are also shown a side to his personality that makes him more human and real to readers.
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Review:
My fascination with Krishna Deva Raya began with his witty, and memorable interactions with his quick-witted courtier, Tenali Rama. But then as we read more about him in school, I became even more impressed by this king who stood up for his subjects. So when I heard about Abhijeeth Hiliyana’s book about this mighty Indian king, I jumped at the chance to read it!
And I am so glad I did too. This is one of the best Indian historical novels I have read. The amount of research done by the author, and his excellent narration made this story so immersive, and real.
Loved the intriguing opening:
HE HEARD IT AS THOUGH HE WAS IN A DREAM, THE MUFFLED SOUND OF water striking the walls…”
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Quote
Right from the intriguing opening, I was hooked. And I, for one, am a wary reader of Indian historical and mythology books because I often find authors taking undue advantage of the term “creative freedom” to distort the facts so much that nothing matches reality anymore, not even a little. So, I am absolutely thrilled to tell you that I got the best experience of learning about Krishna Deva Raya, and reliving a glorious time in Indian history.
Immersive and realistic world building:
The world building is exquisite, and so believable. I felt a part of everything, and easily traveled back in time all from the comfort of my home!
Right from the cultural richness of that time, to the grandeur of the palace, to the lurking dangers both from within and outside, to the fierce bonds of duty and loyalty, this book will give you a taste of every emotion and experience so flawlessly as to leave you in awe of the author’s writing prowess.
So, I can safely state that the world building of this book is one of the best I have witnessed in my recent reading journey!
Writing Style:
The writing style is simple, fluid, and so well modulated according to the time period of the story. So, I could easily visualize each character, and their interactions in my mind’s eye. Then the dialogues are memorable, pack a punch, and often left me with deep thoughts. I also applaud the author on the many life lessons he subtly, and effectively wove in his dialogues. These slowly creep on you, and left me plenty food for thought.
‘Every person has a destined lifespan in this world, Krishna, do not grieve for others. They have gone to a better place.’
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Quote
Meticulous research and admirably interwoven story:
I also loved the many folk tales the author has used as a base to tell this story. And in reading this book, I found myself more informed, and connected with a Ruler who paved his own path to greatness through toil, sacrifice, and a deep seated sense of duty to his family and people.
‘You need not be stronger than the bull – only smarter,’ his father used to say.
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Quote
Characterization:
The characterization is another strength of this book. Each character whether big or small is meticulously planned. So, they all played their part splendidly in taking this story forward.
Krishna Deva Raya and Chinna Devi’s eternal love story:
I adored the pure love between a King and a temple dancer that defied all societal rules. The author has used one of the many versions of this story, and done a magnificent job. I sighed in pure bliss, and then also cried my eyes out as their love was tested.
The “devadasi” or temple dancer practice is one that shocked me and deeply saddened me when I first read about it in “The Temple is not my father“. A practice that actively exploited women in the name of religion broke my heart. And I cried ugly tears as I read about it again in this book.
I am and will always be a temple dancer to Tuluva Krishna. Between us, there can only be one relationship. With Krishna, I had hoped there might be more, but clearly I was wrong:” She was weeping now but she quickly wiped her face to prevent anyone from noticing her distress.
I just wanted you to love me more, Chinna.”
I cannot love you more, Krishna, because I love you more than my life, but I cannot accept the relationship that we will end up having between Tuluva Krishna and temple dancer Chinna Devi”
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Quote
Story pacing:
The pace of the story varies in accordance with the plot. And I could not help but feel impressed at how easily the author modulated the pace to heighten the enjoyment of the book.
Reread worthy book:
This is a book that I finished in one sitting, and yet didn’t want it to end ever. So, I kept picking it up again and again to reread my favourite excerpts.
‘Death comes to all, Krishna. Most simply disappear from the hearts and minds of the people. A few remain as a cherished memory for decades or sometimes centuries. But your name, the name of Krishna Deva Raya, will live on forever. Even death will have no power over that.’
Krishna Deva Raya : The Boy who would be King by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Quote
Conclusion:
All in all, I absolutely loved reading Krishna Deva Raya: The Boy who would be King. And I am itching to write a long post on the beauty of this book but I fear I will give away the story. So, on a final note, Njkinny recommends this spell binding Indian novel to all historical lovers. 5 out of 5 super shiny stars to this entertaining book that help me captive throughout, and then left me itching to read the next part, “Krishna Deva Raya: The Crown of Vijayanagara“.
So, go grab this amazing book to read now. Also gift it to historical story lovers in your circle. I loved Abhijeeth Hiliyana’s writing style, and so look forward to reading more from him in the future.
Buy From:
Also read Krishna Deva Raya Part 2 by Abhijeeth Hiliyana:
Krishna Deva Raya: The Crown of Vijayanagara by Abhijeeth Hiliyana Book Review and Quotes
Buy From: AMAZON
Meet Author Abhijeeth Hiliyana:
Also Read:
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- The Jade Lion by SMoss Book Review and Book Quotes
- Pradyumna: Son of Krishna by Usha Narayanan Book Review
- Ram – Scion of Ikshvaku by Amish Book Review
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