Title: The Hitman
Author: Manoj V Jain
Publisher: Notion Press
Genre: Contemporary
First Publication: 2023
Language: English
Book Summary: The Hitman by Manoj V Jain
Would you make a life-and-death agreement with a stranger at a bar?
On the eve of his fortieth birthday, a desolate Vivek strikes up a conversation with a man, who agrees to grant him his wish at a price.
Set over a hundred days, Vivek must undergo a series of coincidences taking him through a journey that he never envisaged when he struck a deal with the hitman.
In his eighth fiction, author Manoj Jain has delved into the mind of the lonely and the desperate. While the book deals with sensitive topics like despair and hope, it is a gentle pick-me-up on days when one is troubled or low. More relevant today than ever, The Hitman concludes to the final question that we all hope to find the answer to: What is the meaning of man’s existence?
Book Review: The Hitman by Manoj V Jain
The search for the meaning of existence is an innate and captivating aspect of being human. From the earliest stirrings of consciousness, we are propelled by an unyielding curiosity to unravel the purpose behind our very existence. It’s a profound journey that transcends cultural boundaries, religious beliefs, and the constraints of time, uniting us in our shared pursuit of understanding. Armed with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, we delve into the depths of philosophy, science, spirituality, and introspection, yearning to untangle the mysteries that enshroud our existence.
We grapple with existential quandaries, attempting to make sense of the fabric of reality, the enigma of consciousness, and our place within the vast cosmos. The weight of our mortal fragility presses upon us, triggering profound questions about the significance of our individual lives in the grand tapestry of existence. Yet, it is within this quest that we uncover the extraordinary richness of our human nature. In a literary landscape brimming with stories that delve into the human condition, Manoj V Jain’s “The Hitman” emerges as a captivating exploration of life’s meaning and the relentless pursuit of purpose, interwoven with elements of suspense and self-discovery. Through the lens of the protagonist, Vivek, the author delves into the depths of loneliness, despair, and the desire to find significance in one’s existence.
Having read and adored Manoj Jain’s previous work, “A Man from Mandu,” I eagerly immersed myself in his latest, “The Hitman,” anticipating another captivating exploration of the human experience. As the story unfolds, we meet Vivek on the eve of his fortieth birthday, feeling desolate and contemplating the course of his life. It is during this vulnerable moment that he encounters a mysterious stranger at a bar, with whom he strikes a life-altering bargain. This stranger, known as Brahmaan, offers to grant Vivek’s wish, but at a price. Vivek agrees, unknowingly setting in motion a series of events that will challenge his perception of himself and the world around him.
Over the course of a hundred days, Vivek embarks on a journey filled with unexpected coincidences. As he navigates through these encounters, he begins to question his initial decision and the weight of his choice. Through the author’s vivid storytelling, we witness Vivek’s transformation, his gradual shift from despair to hope, and his growing realization of the preciousness of life.
Manoj Jain’s storytelling prowess shines through as he crafts a narrative imbued with emotional depth and introspection. Through Vivek’s experiences, we witness the power of compassion, the profound impact of genuine connections, and the transformative potential of self-discovery. The author deftly navigates sensitive themes of despair, hope, and the search for purpose, treating them with a delicate touch that resonates deeply with readers.
“The Hitman” is not merely a tale of despair and introspection, but also a gentle reminder of the little joys and moments of solace that pepper our lives. Each chapter is adorned with thought-provoking quotes that serve as beacons of light amidst the darkness, inspiring readers to reflect on their own existence and find meaning in the seemingly mundane.
With his eighth book, Manoj V Jain has crafted a work that is more than just a story. It is a catalyst for introspection, encouraging readers to confront their own existential questions and delve into the depths of their souls. Through Vivek’s transformative journey, Jain poses timeless inquiries about the human experience, leaving readers pondering the enigmatic tapestry of life long after the final page.
“The Hitman” is a testament to Manoj Jain’s ability to blend literary craftsmanship with profound philosophical exploration. It invites us to contemplate the complexities of our own existence, urging us to seek purpose and connection in a world that can sometimes feel devoid of meaning. In this remarkable novel, Jain compels us to embrace the extraordinary possibilities that lie within the ordinary, and to discover our own unique place in the grand tapestry of existence.
