A detailed review of Shadows of Past: Story of Love, Friendship and Reckoning — a gripping coming-of-age novella exploring friendship, rivalry, love, and personal transformation.
Introduction
College life has always been a melting pot of emotions — friendships that feel eternal, rivalries that seem unbreakable, love that leaves both joy and scars, and choices that shape the person one becomes. Shadows of Past: Story of Love, Friendship and Reckoning captures this world with raw honesty and vibrant storytelling.
Set in the energetic environment of Haldia Institute of Technology, the book follows a young man whose journey through courage, conflict, loyalty, and self-discovery becomes a reflection of youth itself — unpredictable, thrilling, messy, and unforgettable.
Book Details
| Book Title | Shadows of Past: Story of Love, Friendship and Reckoning |
|---|---|
| Author | Prashant Gunjan |
| Language | English |
| Publication Date | April 2, 2025 |
| Reading Age | 4–18 years |
| Print Length | 61 pages |
| Series | Book 1 of 2 |
| Genre | College Drama, Friendship, Romance, Coming-of-Age |
| Book Link | https://amzn.in/d/9GC0upR |
Detailed Book Review
A Fast-Paced, Emotionally Charged College Drama
Shadows of Past is a dramatic and high-energy coming-of-age novella that brings the chaos and vibrancy of college life to life. The protagonist, Prashant Gunjan, stands at the center of this world — confident, intelligent, fearless, and constantly pulled between friendship, love, rivalry, and personal identity.
Though short in length, the book packs intense drama, humour, conflict, and emotional transformation into its pages.
A Hero Who Is Flawed, Fearless, and Fiercely Loyal
Prashant’s character is built on contradictions — brilliant yet reckless, charming yet impulsive, confident yet emotionally vulnerable.
From the moment he steps into college as a topper and Mr. Fresher, his life becomes a whirlwind of moments that define youth:
- fights fueled by ego and misunderstanding
- loyalty that pushes him into danger
- friendships that become his emotional backbone
- interactions that blur the lines between admiration and affection
His martial arts background and daring nature make him the go-to person during conflict. The nunchaku scene alone becomes a defining moment of his reputation — a blend of courage, madness, and raw leadership.
Friendship That Forms the Heart of the Story
The book’s strongest emotional anchor is Prashant’s bond with Anish Gause, Deepak Gupta, Ravi Shanker Prasad, and Nirmalya. Their camaraderie brings life to the narrative.
Their antics — spontaneous beach trips, hostel mischief, standing up for each other, and getting into trouble together — recreate the innocence and intensity of college brotherhood.
Despite the fights, clashes, and dangerous choices, this friendship becomes Prashant’s greatest strength.
Love, Heartbreak, and the Emotional Turmoil of Youth
Prashant’s encounters with Anumitra, Sutapa Das, and other college girls explore the complicated layers of attraction, reputation, misunderstanding, and heartbreak.
Girls admire him. Rumours follow him. Emotions confuse him. Yet love remains elusive.
These interactions show how relationships during youth can be as chaotic as they are meaningful — leaving behind lessons that shape the heart.
Reckless Adventures and the Breaking Point
The story does not shy away from Prashant’s flawed decisions — especially the reckless hostel-night incident that spirals out of control.
These moments reveal a darker, impulsive side of him, highlighting the dangers of youth-driven pride and misplaced courage.
The consequences take an emotional toll, leading him toward the lowest point in his life.
Redemption Through Inner Healing
What sets the book apart is its shift from external conflict to internal healing.
When heartbreak, betrayal, and loneliness push Prashant into depression, he turns to meditation and Raj Yoga at the Brahma Kumaris Ashram in Mount Abu.
This transformation is written with sensitivity, showing how emotional collapse can lead to spiritual awakening. Through self-reflection, silence, and healing practices, Prashant regains clarity, purpose, and inner strength.
A Story of Growth That Resonates
In many ways, Shadows of Past mirrors the emotional storms of early adulthood — the highs of friendship, the intensity of love, the thrill of rebellion, and the pain of self-doubt.
Despite the chaos, Prashant emerges wiser, stronger, and more self-aware. His journey is a reminder that the past may cast shadows, but it also shapes the light we grow into.
About the Author
Prashant Gunjan writes with the emotional honesty of someone who has lived deeply and observed closely. His storytelling blends drama, humour, and introspection, capturing the unpredictable rhythm of youth. His characters feel real because they carry both strengths and flaws — a reflection of the people we meet in our own lives.
Final Thoughts
Shadows of Past is a short but powerful story that encapsulates the intensity of college life — friendships that feel eternal, love that confuses and strengthens, and recklessness that eventually leads to maturity.
It is a nostalgic, dramatic, and heartfelt journey suitable for young readers and anyone who wishes to revisit the emotional landscape of their own youth.
Get your copy here: https://amzn.in/d/9GC0upR
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