Title: The Bankster
Author: Ravi Subramanian
Publisher: Rupa Publications
Genre: Fiction
The Bankster by Ravi Subramanian follows the quest of Karan Panjabi, an ex-banker turned journalist as he tries to find the truth behind suspicious death of three employees of Greater Boston Global Bank, Mumbai, and how that connects to a blood diamond deal at Angola and a wildlife scam at Kerela. Looks like a conventional thriller? Well, it’s not. The packaging might showcase traditional story line but the content is unique. They don’t exaggerate when they call Ravi Subramanian, John Grisham of banking world. Okay, they do. But even if he is not John Grisham, he is on his way to become one indeed.
But I like to be quiet straight forward here, the only reason I didn’t read the previous books of the author is because of their titles. I know I am being presumptuous, but ‘Bank’ in the title of a book reminds me of waiting in a long queue, economic downfall and conversations involving lots of terms which I don’t understand. But title of this book was the reason I got interested in it at the first place. Is that irony? A banker got involved with underworld of gangsters is the first impression you get and you are not wrong either, leaving out the juggling of intriguing twists in the tale, a race against time, a fight for the truth and all these based on the backdrop of real world scenario; a world of global financial system that is.
I assume you are aware of how the financial system moulds the society, how every small decision affects our day-to-day life and vice-a-versa. Having seen this world from inside, author is much confident in his approach and thus makes the reader feel safe when we try to take a leap of faith with The Bankster. Through the buildup of the plot and as the story progresses, I was sure author will put up the “One World” concept, but he didn’t. Which was a bit disappointing, but maybe he is playing safe or don’t want to reveal all his cards at once; giving me another reason to lookout for his next book.
Just one suggestion to the author, please drop those Hinglish phrases, they are a big turn-off. Also, it won’t be surprising if most of the readers find it boring because of all the banking know-how. It is a deal breaker, especially if the screenplay takes the reader for granted and restricts their imagination. Even with three stories to intertwine, I found myself pushed towards a bit disappointing climax. Overall, it is a good whodunit.
Rating: 4/5
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Blogadda.com as part of their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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