Yesterday evening, Kunzum Books played host to an extraordinary literary event that was as thrilling as the book being celebrated. As the rain cascaded outside, a crowd of book lovers gathered within the cozy confines of the bookstore, ready to dive into the world of Mr. Anurag Tripathi’s latest novel, *The Goa Gambit*. The setting was intimate, the atmosphere was electric, and the conversation was anything but ordinary.
The Goa Gambit is set against the dazzling yet dangerous backdrop of Goa’s casino world, a place where fortunes are won and lost in the blink of an eye. At the heart of the story is Jayesh Shah, the undisputed Czar of the Indian gambling world. His journey from rags to riches is legendary—a testament to his sharp mind and even sharper poker skills. But behind the glitz and glamour, Jayesh is fighting to maintain his empire, using every trick he learned as an ace poker player to outmaneuver those who threaten his domain.
The novel paints a vivid picture of a world where powerful politicians, famous celebrities, and the rich—both old money and new—rub shoulders with those who dream of quick fortunes. It’s a world where the stakes are impossibly high, and a single roll of the dice can make or break lives. The book’s fast-paced narrative is packed with tension, glamour, and an underlying menace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
Anurag Tripathi, a former banker and investor, drew inspiration for this gripping novel from an unexpected encounter. While traveling to Goa, he found himself seated next to a man deeply involved in the casino business. Intrigued by the world he was introduced to, Tripathi conducted interviews with numerous individuals connected to the industry, piecing together the real-life scenarios that would ultimately shape The Goa Gambit. Although the novel is a work of fiction, its roots are firmly planted in reality, making it all the more compelling.
During the event, Mr Tripathi shared fascinating insights into the creation of the book. His sharp wit and deep understanding of his subject matter shone through as he engaged with the audience, responding to their questions with intellect and humor. When asked about his future projects, Tripathi playfully hinted at raising the stakes even higher, perhaps exploring a nuclear bomb plot in his next novel. This revelation was met with excitement and anticipation, leaving everyone eager to see where his imagination would take him next.
Mr Tripathi was joined on stage by Amna Mirza, an esteemed academician, professor, author, and social entrepreneur. Her presence added depth to the conversation, as she and Tripathi delved into the intricacies of the novel and its themes. Their rapport was evident, and the discussion provided the audience with a richer understanding of the book and the world it portrays.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly when Tripathi read an excerpt from The Goa Gambit. As he brought his characters to life with his voice, the room fell silent, captivated by the tension and drama unfolding in the story. With 11 characters navigating the treacherous waters of Goa’s casino scene, the novel promises to be a thrilling ride from beginning to end.
The Goa Gambit is not Tripathi’s first dip into the literary world. His debut novel, which focused on the art market in India, garnered significant attention, earning him a nomination for the Raymond Crossword Book Awards in 2017. His second novel offered a candid portrayal of the financial advisory business in India, pulling back the curtain on an industry shrouded in mystery for many. With The Goa Gambit, Tripathi continues to build on his reputation as a master storyteller, delivering a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
As the evening drew to a close, the chatter among the attendees was lively and animated. The rain outside may have been relentless, but inside Kunzum Books, the warmth and excitement were palpable. The combination of a compelling story, an engaging author, and a crowd of passionate readers made for a perfect evening—one that will be remembered long after the last page of The Goa Gambit is turned. For those who crave thrillers that keep them on the edge of their seats, The Goa Gambit is a must-read. With every turn of the page, the stakes get higher, the tension mounts, and you’ll find yourself drowning in a world where a single misstep could cost you everything.
