Well received

The success of Satyarth Nayak’s debut novel has motivated him to stick to the same genre

Satyarth calls the success of the novel a “a big relief”.

For a creative person there is nothing like been recognised by patrons. In the case of a writer, a novel listed on the bestsellers compilation works wonders.

Satyarth Nayak’s debut book “The Emperor's Riddles” The Hindu Metro Plus April 10 — a heady mix of mystery, thriller, legend and historical events — has appeared in the Asian Age's top 10 sellers for three weeks and made it to two categories of young adult and mystery thrillers of Amazon India’s bestsellers.

Launched in March 2014, the first print run of the novel was for 2000 copies which sold out in two months. The reprint which started in May is pegged at 3000 copies.

Satyarth calls the success of the novel a “a big relief”. Agreeing he chose the appropriate genre for launching his writing career, he comments, “This category is very exciting, popular and commands a large, ready and potential readership.” Having said that, he adds, “You have to deliver quality as the advantage comes with this stipulation.” He observes, “I find a lot of people browsing and buying from the mystery and thriller section of a bookstore.”

The author received sizeable feedback during interactions with readers at different fora. “It was encouraging and authentic as most have read the book and appreciated the use of Indian legends, myths and historical facts to create a mystery…I hope the success of the novel will encourage others to use our rich past as the backdrop for thrillers.”

For the writer, this comes with the responsibility of writing a second novel “which should be as good as the first, if not better”. The novelist is upfront about the criticism. “There was objection about the historical narrative in the story which runs parallel with the narrative set in the present age, as it was not seamless and interrupted the flow and smooth reading.” In response he says, “I will look into it and make my second story better.”

The innovative use of riddles in the book was liked by readers who tried to crack them. “I am happy that the purpose of including them in the story was fulfilled,” says Satyarth. Besides, Bollywood has shown interest in making a film on the book. “I will be collaborating in writing the screenplay,” he says.

Already researching, the writer’s second novel will again be in the same genre and explore supernatural and fantasy. Looks like a case of replicating the first success story.