Review: The Nothing Man

Would not call this brilliant piece- but certainly well worth a read and good value for Time. Personally it came as a rain for parched earth for me, since i was desperately looking for a break from the 'bhagatish' breed of novels ( am still reeling under the numb onslaught of R2020) Must appreciate the author, for bringing in the stylish and interesting narrative of 'back and forth'- i think this is was what kept me hooked to finish the book in one go. Also- the basic premise of the book was fresh and cheeky- the author himself capturing the gist with the analogy of ' a painter in search of his muse to finish his masterpiece'. Minimal characters which were etched out to the reader's satisfaction. I liked the wickedness, laziness, loser,  introspective, and ballsy nature of the protagonist- something which each of us would have experienced at some point of time or other.  The language was simple and genuine that it just solely conveyed the thoughts of the author to the reader, and nothing else. ( Reason i stress this- it is unlike again the 'bhagatish' breed where every third sentence is forced down with an analogy so that language does the holy ritual of converting more 'non-readers' into 'readers'!! enough of this shit !!)
Well if i need to complain for the sake of a review- i only have the grouse regarding few aspects of the plot. The premise of a current husband entertaining and budding up to an ex - seems improbable and unrealistic. What was the destination point ? I understand its was to complete to novel, BUT why had it to take a 'scandalous' route of finding a way to the ex-wife skirt ? Author could have served us with bit more 'creative liberty' here. The aspect of the ex-wife getting into depression and eventual marriage break-up was not well justified- would  have liked to know what triggered this - seemed too hurried and simple in the narrative. What happens to Brandy's boyfriend ? How often does one risk losing a boy-friend on a train just because you meet someone 'talkative' uncle on the train ? Seems surreal again. Well, at the end - i acknowledge e are reading a fictional novel, isnt it ? and hence i have forced to accept it under 'creative liberty' well exploited. To sum up- though the situations are dreamy- there are strung together with moments of emotions and feelings which every reader would have experience at some point or other in this life. I think thats the strong point of this book.
Out and Out - amazing first attempt, and I confess that i would look forward for the author's next book.