“Run Nikita, run.
Radha didi uttered these words for the first time when I was in high school. And would repeat them time and again so I never forget the warning, and take it seriously. You should go away, she would say. As soon as possible. This place will destroy you. Like it has destroyed me.
Go where, I would ask.
Anywhere. Every place will be better than this one.”
There are books that entertain, and then there are books that move you, books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Nikita by Ajay Jain strongly belongs in the second category. I felt it is a deeply emotional and powerful novel inspired by true events, and it’s one of those rare reads that leaves a mark on your soul.
The plot follows Nikita, a woman whose life is turned upside down by circumstances beyond her control. As the narrative unfolds, we witness her struggle, vulnerability, resilience, and transformation. What makes Nikita so compelling is not just the subject matter, but the way it is told, with sensitivity, nuance, and deep empathy. The plot captivates you, making you walk beside the protagonist every step of the way.
Ajay has written a character who feels incredibly real. Nikita is not romanticized or dramatized, she is raw, layered, and human. Her strength stems not from grand gestures, but from quiet persistence and emotional honesty. Even at her worst moments, she bears her agony with quiet dignity, which is what makes her story so remarkable. I found myself rooting for her, mourning with her, and celebrating her moments of bravery.
One of the strengths of the book lies in its structure. The story is paced in a way that creates constant curiosity, you’re never quite sure what’s coming next. This quality reminded me of a well-written blurb that leaves you with a question you can’t wait to answer. The narrative rhythm is emotionally charged yet smooth, and this balance is what keeps you hooked throughout the book.
The writing itself is elegant and evocative. Jain’s prose brings every scene to life with vivid detail, whether it’s a quiet reflection or a heart-wrenching confrontation. He portrays deeply intimate moments with restraint and honesty, which makes the story feel more real and impactful.
While the themes are heavy, the book never feels hopeless. In fact, Nikita is ultimately a story of resilience and self-reclamation. It’s about finding one’s voice in the aftermath of silence, about reclaiming identity in a world that constantly threatens to erase it.
If you appreciate emotionally rich, character-driven narratives, Nikita is a must read. It’s a novel that demands to be felt as much as it is read. You don’t simply consume the story, you live it with the protagonist at every step.
This book is not just an essential read because of its literary merit, but because of the conversations it sparks, about resilience, agency, and the power of storytelling.
Pick up Nikita by Ajay Jain from any Kunzum store or WhatsApp +91.8800200280 to order. Buy the book(s) and the coffee’s on us or shop from our website.
About the Reviewer:
Nigar Zehra Naqvi is a reader drawn to introspective, emotionally complex stories. She gravitates towards character-driven fiction that lingers in her mind. She works on initiatives that build deeper connections between readers and books.