Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Bhattacharjee offers a creative and meditative plot focused on making sense of internal struggles and navigating the decision-making that impacts life events. More reflective than suspenseful, the pace often slows and may feel heavy to some readers.
Prose: The prose is beautifully metaphoric at times, evoking arresting images juxtaposed with lyrical writing. However, readers may find the novel's intent challenging to discern, and there are instances when dialogue and style become overly formal.
Originality: Crossroads of Life is a unique take on what makes a relationship persevere, and the author's emphasis on introversion adds to the story's originality.
Character Development/Execution: Bhattacharjee's narrative approach empowers the novel's characterization, and the story's introspective commentary is a powerful thread weaving the different elements together.
Date Submitted: August 29, 2022
A fantastic story of complex characters navigating life with array of emotions ranging from love, passion, duty to anger, disappointment, and disillusion. The story is gripping from the start and the author is able to take the reader on the ride as the characters live their roller-coaster lives. Not everyone survives in the end of crossroads of lives but some emotions stand out regardless : hope and resilience. I enjoyed reading the book and strongly recommend it.
Excellent book written by a very erudite and mature author. This book reminds me of a classic painting. Margaret has been portrayed as a very nuanced character. The novel is centered around her persona, the author has dealt with this character in the most nuanced manner. The inner strength and power of an introvert individual is well portrayed. Reading this novel I was reminded of D H Lawrence and his thoughts on such individuals. He had rightly said that it is all a question of sensitiveness. Brute force and overbearing may make a terrific effect. But in the end, that which lives lives by delicate sensitiveness.
I would highly recommend this book, and of course I shall re read it soon.
