Lost Edges

Salini Vineeth’s ‘Lost Edges’, an interesting 257-page turner, is a storyline rich in emotion, drama and relationship issues. The unique title drew me to this book. Once I finished reading it, I understood just how apt the title is. This book felt oddly personal to me, as if the author (who I understand is an alumnus of the college she uses as a setting in the book), was writing a first-hand account even though the book alternates between the past and the present.

‘Lost Edges’ is a compelling narrative offering an in-depth insight into matrimonial discord and the complexities of love. The book leaves the reader with pertinent questions – Does ambition have a role in elevating or degrading relationships? To what extent can a loved one support another facing mental health issues and how important is spousal support in mental health? Can two people who once loved each other grow apart and still find their way back to each other?

What I found noteworthy in the book:-

1. The characters are relatable. The millennials are imperfect, have their quirks, insecurities and emotional burdens. They are ambitious, career-oriented and hungry for power/success. Yet, their past also affects them. Salini sketches them with their shades of grey and I found that particularly skilled.

2. The detailing in the book is beautiful. Salini creates quite an atmosphere with her attention to minute details, her vivid descriptions and the emotions aroused by them.

3. The arch of individual growth of each protagonist is noteworthy. Salini makes the reader feel like a part of the story. They navigate the exploration of the relationship, the personal growth of the protags, alongside them.

4. The author addressed topics like gender inequality, mental health, and trauma sensitively.

5. The language is beautiful. It flows naturally, without a hitch, and captivates the reader.

6. The narrative is interesting enough to hold the reader’s attention throughout.

What I found to be food-for-thought in the book:-

1. This book is not a light-hearted read. It is a deep-dive into the complexities of a couple’s relationship issues, their drama, their mental struggle, etc. This is young adult literature, so may not be suitable for newly minted teens.

2. The vividity of the details can seem to drag the pace of the book sometimes.

I will say that I enjoyed the exploration of relationships that make ‘Lost Edges’ a thought-provoking, insightful, and relatable narrative. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading serious literature.