'A new author in the genre of historical fiction in English-Arun Krishnan's first volume of what is going to be a trilogy, makes you eagerly wait for the two remaining books. The battle for Vathapi (Badami) tilted the Pallava-Chalukya balance and, in hyperbole, has been compared to Agastya's swallowing of the demon Vathapi. As the author says, this is not itihasa as it happened, but as it might have happened. Well-researched and well-told, with a keen sense of the churn in India then, a story familiar in Tamil renderings now comes alive through Arun Krishnan's pen. Wonderful to read.' Bibek Debroy, Author and Chairman, PM's Economic Council

'A wonderful addition to the pantheon of historical fiction, Nandi's Charge, set in ancient India-a rarity to begin with, is fast-paced and evocative. It will leave you hankering for more. Cannot wait for the next two editions of this trilogy.' Anand Ranganathan, Author and Scientist

'It is not uncommon to spot historical fiction novels these days. What is rare is to find well-researched historical fiction. What is rarer still, is finding an author who has moulded his research into a fascinating storyline with a spellbinding style of narration. This book, Arun's debut novel, is certainly a must-read.' Amish Tripathi, Bestselling Author

'Arun Krishnan brings to life the Pallava kingdom's strategy and preparation to attack and subdue Vathapi in the seventh century. Written with meticulous attention to detail, Nandi's Charge is a compelling story that also doubles up as a delightful history lesson.' Ashwin Sanghi, Bestselling Author

'Nandi's Charge is an aesthetically woven tale that brings alive the seventh century world of the Pallavas and Chalukyas. Arun Krishnan's lively imagery and character craft does remind one of the immortal legacy of Kalki Krishnamurthy. The pages don't just turn themselves, but they take the reader, alongside the protagonist, through a compelling journey! A must read.' Saiswaroopa, Author

'An episode from Indian history comes alive in Nandi's Charge. Rich with history and storytelling, Arun weaves a magical tapestry of history, fact, and fiction.' Abhinav Agarwal, Author

'Arun Krishnan comes to us today with an enthralling story that takes place in the seventh century, between Chalukyas and Pallavas, ancient dynasties of southern India, that possessed the most advanced civilizations of their times, with that of the Pandyas, but are rarely spoken about at length in India's history books. Read and Enjoy.' Francois Gautier, Journalist, Columnist and Author

'Arun Krishnan's period novel, Nandi's Charge, is a mesmerizing read. It is unfortunate that even with India's rich historical past, modern Indian literature hasn't drawn from it enough. Nandi's Charge fills that vacuum in the historical fiction genre. Arun's writing is lyrical and engaging. The world he paints for his readers is distant and yet feels contemporary. The story he tells feels close to the skin and the emotions he explores feel universal yet intimate. A must read for all those who care to connect the ancient with the modern.' Sunanda Vashisht, Writer and Columnist

'Arun Krishnan's debut novel Nandi's Charge takes you back to a time where India was looked upon as the centre of civilised cultures. It is a space that is often neglected in India-except in melodramatic TV serials ... This set of novels will hopefully bring back the focus on the southern empires and cultures that spread far and wide-and whose living traditions can be seen even today. The book is a must read for those interested in history, fiction, and historical fiction.' Harini Calamur, Writer and Media Practitioner