Enakshi reviews, No Illusions in Xanadu, a mystery novel, by Ruby Gupta. An exclusive for Different Truths.  

Book: No Illusions in Xanadu

Author:  Ruby Gupta

Publisher:  Bloomsbury India

Rating:  3/5

I enjoy reading murder mysteries because they have the ability to keep you hooked to your seat until the very last moment. After a long haul, I finally chanced upon No Illusions in Xanadu and it would be an understatement if I say that the book passes the muster.

This story traces the aftermath of Rajvir’s murder. Rajvir, a top-notch actor, is found dead in his study. The murder weapon is found easily yet the police are unable to knit all threads together. Helpless and hapless, they try everything but to no avail.

This story traces the aftermath of Rajvir’s murder. Rajvir, a top-notch actor, is found dead in his study. The murder weapon is found easily yet the police are unable to knit all threads together. Helpless and hapless, they try everything but to no avail. Layered writing and continuing narrative add to the mystery as several new characters are introduced. Rajvir’s personality is revealed gradually and the instant hatred towards him becomes unavoidable because of his keen interest in women. A handsome lothario, Rajvir has a wife, Pallavi, and two children, Mridula and Amar. He has an illegitimate relationship with another woman, Jyotika and has a son with her, Chandra Prakash. Sociable and quite an extrovert, Rajvir has a vast circle of friends and some of them who form the pivot of the plot include Dinkar and Professor Shantanu.

The story isn’t simple because there are too many characters. At one point, it becomes extremely difficult to remember who’s who. While the wheel of suspicion rotates and points on each character, chapter by chapter, the twists leave the reader flabbergasted. Each character has a backstory, especially about how they came in contact with Rajvir and how close their bond was with the deceased. It is interesting to note how deftly the author weaves all the stories together. It is admirable to see all stories converging together and eventually letting us see behind the facade. The story highlights how money corrupts and also has the capacity to buy everything and everyone!

While the presence of some of the characters like Lucas and Natalie was questionable and unnecessary, others were crafted so well. Pallavi’s dilemma and her detachment from Rajvir were palatable. Remanika’s anxiety and angst were justifiable. Amar’s addiction and confession, too, were important, for they led the story to an important turning point.

While the presence of some of the characters like Lucas and Natalie was questionable and unnecessary, others were crafted so well. Pallavi’s dilemma and her detachment from Rajvir were palatable. Remanika’s anxiety and angst were justifiable. Amar’s addiction and confession, too, were important, for they led the story to an important turning point. The story subtly pokes fun at the religious beliefs and blind faith of people. I liked how the story advocated that no person is a saint. However, I can see the irony in my own words.

No Illusions in Xanadu derives its name from Mandrake’s mansion, Xanadu, atop a mountain in New York State. Rajvir’s palatial house has been called Xanadu and this metaphorical reference is a masterstroke. It is funny how in spite of so many features and facilities, a murder was committed inside Xanadu and the murderer could easily escape without coming into the notice of anyone. This murder mystery is as clear as mud and that’s the plus point because the readers will be left wondering who the real culprit is. The climax comes as a shock.

The disappointing part was the editing, as the book had a lot of grammatical errors and typos as well. I think if more emphasis was given to the editing, this story would have won my heart.

Overall, No Illusions in Xanadu is a recommended read because it has the potential to make you wait for the climax with bated breath.

Overall, No Illusions in Xanadu is a recommended read because it has the potential to make you wait for the climax with bated breath. Just ensure you make a mindmap as the characters enter or you might be left a little baffled.

Best wishes to the author, Ruby Gupta!

Photo sourced by the author