The first thing that strikes you when you pick up this breezy read by Partha Sarathi Basu is its cover, depicting a tie with a noose at its edge. Yes, it depicts the success that suffocates you so much that it is almost suicidal. With or Without You is a tale of self-betrayal, blind race to the top, and the bitter truth of the corporate world that the show would go on with or without you.
Aarav Sengupta, a young, ambitious, but idealistic corporate executive finds himself trapped in a web of deceit that not only snatches away his confidence and his righteousness, but also ?himself? from him. The efforts of his loving and perceptive wife Raika, who understands her husband?s weak and strong points, and who tries to salvage him from adverse situations, are of no help when a series of events conspire against Aarav.
The circumstances eventually metamorphose him from an honest, truthful person to a selfish and self-absorbed professional. His transformation to the exact opposite of his persona begins when Sonali, a conniving femme fatale enters his life, and starts influencing all his workplace decisions.
But how does she manage to do that? She promises to help Aarav reach the top only if he agrees to play a game with her. Blinded by her charm and convincing ways, Aarav sets out on a ferocious journey, crushing everyone who comes in his way, to achieve his goal only to discover that he has lost himself in the process.
An engaging read, With or Without You keeps the readers glued till the very end. Divided into 35 small chapters, the narrative establishes an immediate connection with the reader. The novel is fast-paced and with an air of suspense that urges the reader to ask, what next, at the end of each chapter. What fails to impress probably are the abrupt jumps that sometimes disrupt the flow and at other times look unconvincing and forced.
For instance, in the end, when Sonali?s game is revealed, another side of her persona comes to surface which contradicts her character build-up. All of a sudden, the out-and-out negative character takes a positive turn. Why did Aarav?s boss (Page) at B2Y want him to turn vicious and ferocious? Even if he wanted it so, why did he give the task to Sonali. This turn of events could have looked more convincing if Page?s character was more elaborate.
Despite its shortcomings, the novel has what it takes to become a popular read. First, it?s a slice from everyday life. It?s about people you would definitely meet in your professional life, though they might or might not be as black and white as portrayed in the story. Second, many of us who have an ambitious streak can relate to it, and smile at the fate of its protagonist. Last, but not the least, everyone likes to read an interesting story and on this count this novel wins hands down.
If you can go grab a copy of With or Without You for your next Metro ride, the chances are you might miss your station.
