In the bustling, often unforgiving landscape of New Delhi, a world of unimaginable wealth collides violently with desperate poverty, giving birth to a narrative as intoxicating as it is brutal. Deepti Kapoor’s Age of Vice arrives as a literary juggernaut, a sprawling, ambitious novel that plunges readers headfirst into the dark heart of modern India’s elite. If you’re searching for a book that truly gets under your skin, a story that blends the visceral punch of a crime thriller with the intricate depths of a family saga, then this Age of Vice book review is for you. Prepare to be immersed in a world where money is god, power is everything, and the lines between right and wrong blur into an opulent, dangerous haze.
Introduction: Stepping into the Heart of Darkness
From its electrifying opening scene—a speeding Mercedes crashing in the dead of night, leaving a trail of bodies on the streets of New Delhi—Age of Vice immediately signals its intent. This isn’t just a story; it’s an experience, a descent into the morally ambiguous lives of the Wadia family, a dynasty whose power extends far beyond legitimate business. Deepti Kapoor, with her background as a journalist, brings an unflinching eye to the excesses of the super-rich and the devastating consequences of their actions on those caught in their orbit. My goal with this comprehensive Age of Vice book review is to peel back the layers of this complex narrative, exploring its multifaceted characters, pervasive themes, distinctive language, and the sheer narrative force that makes it an unforgettable read. This novel is a prime example of how compelling storytelling can illuminate societal truths, making it a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary Indian literature or powerful global thrillers.
Unraveling the Threads: Plot Overview of Age of Vice
The narrative of Age of Vice unfurls with the precision of a carefully constructed trap, starting with that chilling car crash and then rewinding through time, shifting perspectives to reveal the intricate web connecting its central figures. The story is broadly divided into three parts, each focusing on one of the main protagonists, allowing Kapoor to slowly build a panoramic view of the Wadia empire and its victims.
The first section introduces us to Ajay, a young man born into abject poverty in a rural Uttar Pradesh village. His early life is marked by tragedy and hardship, including being sold into indentured servitude after his father’s death. This harrowing beginning shapes Ajay into a survivor, adaptable and watchful. His path eventually leads him to New Delhi, where he enters the service of the powerful Wadia family, specifically as a valet and later a loyal bodyguard to Sunny Wadia. Ajay’s journey is one of rising through the ranks, navigating the dangerous currents of his masters’ lives while clinging to his own moral compass, however tarnished it may become. His perspective offers a raw, ground-level view of the vast disparity between India’s elite and its most vulnerable.
The second part pivots to Neda Kapur, a sharp, ambitious journalist from a more privileged, albeit liberal, background. Drawn to the scandal surrounding the Wadias, Neda finds herself increasingly entangled with Sunny Wadia, the charismatic, enigmatic, and utterly reckless heir to the Wadia fortunes. Their relationship is a potent mix of professional curiosity and undeniable attraction, pulling Neda into Sunny’s hedonistic world of lavish parties, illicit dealings, and dangerous secrets. Her section delves into the allure of power and wealth, even for someone who intellectually despises its corrupting influence, and explores the compromises one makes in the pursuit of a story or, perhaps, a forbidden love.
Finally, the narrative converges on Sunny Wadia himself. Born into a life of unimaginable luxury and entitlement, Sunny is a complex figure, seemingly a hedonistic playboy but driven by a deeper desire to prove himself to his formidable, ruthless father, Bunty Wadia. Sunny wants to expand the family’s empire beyond its traditional, often brutal, operations, dreaming of legitimate real estate ventures and a more global presence. However, he is inextricably bound by the legacy of violence and corruption that defines his family. His struggle to reconcile his aspirations with his inherited destiny forms a significant emotional core of the novel, revealing the vulnerabilities hidden beneath his polished exterior.
The overarching plot traces the Wadia family’s rise, from a liquor business in Uttar Pradesh to a formidable real estate and criminal conglomerate in New Delhi. The car crash that opens the book serves as a fulcrum, and as the story delves into the pasts of these three interconnected lives, it gradually reveals the events leading up to that fateful morning and the explosive consequences that follow. It’s a tale of betrayals, shifting loyalties, desperate measures, and the relentless pursuit of power, culminating in a dramatic denouement that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment of this planned trilogy. This intricate plot structure is a key strength highlighted in every Age of Vice book review you’ll encounter.
Character Studies: Navigating the Moral Maze
Deepti Kapoor’s characters in Age of Vice are not mere archetypes; they are deeply flawed, incredibly human individuals, each grappling with their own desires, demons, and the brutal realities of their circumstances. Their complexity is what elevates this novel beyond a simple thriller.
Ajay, for instance, is far more than just “the servant.” His backstory of extreme poverty and early trauma instills in him a quiet resilience and a profound understanding of survival. He is observant, loyal to a fault, yet constantly aware of his precarious position. We witness his internal conflict as he becomes complicit in the Wadia family’s darker dealings, even as he yearns for a life beyond their shadow. His journey from an innocent boy to a hardened man, marked by a quiet dignity despite the horrors he witnesses, makes him a profoundly sympathetic figure. His desire for a better life is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for him to somehow escape the cycle of violence.
Sunny Wadia embodies the paradox of immense privilege. He possesses charm, intelligence, and a vision for the future, but he is also trapped by his family’s monstrous legacy. He longs for approval from his father, Bunty, and struggles with the moral implications of the family business while simultaneously benefiting from its illicit gains. Sunny’s hedonism is a facade, often masking a profound loneliness and a desperate attempt to assert his own identity within a world where his fate seems predetermined. His relationship with Neda, though fraught with danger and emotional manipulation, reveals a yearning for something genuine amidst the artifice. He is not simply a villain; he is a product of his environment, a man trying, and often failing, to find his own path.
Neda Kapur serves as our moral compass, or at least, the character most overtly grappling with ethical dilemmas. As a journalist, she seeks truth and justice, but her attraction to Sunny, and the dazzling, corrupt world he inhabits, compromises her principles. Neda represents the seductive power of wealth and the blurred lines between observation and participation. Her intelligence and ambition are evident, yet she is not immune to the intoxicating allure of a life she previously condemned. Her journey is about understanding the human cost of corruption, both on a societal level and within her own soul.
Even the secondary characters, particularly the patriarch Bunty Wadia and his brother Vikram “Vicky” Wadia, are painted with chilling realism. Bunty is the embodiment of ruthless power, a man who has built an empire on violence and intimidation, utterly devoid of sentimentality. Vicky, his enforcer, is equally terrifying, a shadow figure who executes the family’s dirty work without question. Their presence casts a long, menacing shadow over all the characters, reinforcing the novel’s central themes of unchecked power and the pervasive nature of corruption. Each character, regardless of their role, feels authentic, contributing to the rich tapestry that is Age of Vice.
Themes: A Reflection of Modern India’s Soul
Age of Vice is not merely a crime thriller; it’s a searing social commentary, dissecting the complex, often brutal, realities of contemporary India. Deepti Kapoor masterfully weaves several profound themes throughout the narrative, giving the Age of Vice book review much to unpack.
The Chasm Between Wealth and Poverty is arguably the most dominant theme. The novel starkly contrasts the unimaginable opulence of the Wadia family – their lavish farmhouses, designer clothes, private jets, and endless parties – with the crushing destitution faced by characters like Ajay, who begin life struggling for basic survival on the streets. This juxtaposition highlights the vast social inequalities in India, where the rich operate with impunity while the poor are disposable. The opening scene, where the Mercedes mows down pavement dwellers, is a powerful, visceral representation of this disparity.
Corruption and Unchecked Power permeate every layer of society depicted in the novel. The Wadia family’s empire is built on illicit dealings, political influence, and outright violence, demonstrating how money can buy immunity and manipulate systems. The police, politicians, and even the judiciary are shown to be complicit or powerless against the Wadias’ reach. This theme provides a chilling look at how deeply corruption can embed itself within a nation’s fabric, affecting everything from land deals to personal freedoms.
The novel also explores the intricate dynamics of Family, Loyalty, and Betrayal. The Wadia family, while a source of immense power, is also a cage. Sunny struggles with the expectations placed upon him by his ruthless father, torn between loyalty to his bloodline and a desire for a different life. Ajay’s unwavering loyalty to Sunny, despite being born into entirely different circumstances, is a central pillar of the narrative, yet even that loyalty is constantly tested. Betrayals, both personal and professional, are rampant, illustrating the fragility of bonds in a world where self-preservation often trumps all else.
The Idea of Atonement and Redemption surfaces subtly, particularly through the journeys of Ajay and Sunny. Both characters, in their own ways, are seeking some form of salvation or a release from the sins of their pasts or their family’s legacy. However, the novel suggests that escaping the “age of vice” is a near-impossible feat, caught as they are in an “ageless chakra of atavistic feudalism and hyper-capitalism.”
Kapoor also touches upon Modern India’s Transformation since economic liberalization in the 1990s. The influx of capital, the rapid urbanization of Delhi, and the emergence of new forms of wealth and power are all depicted, often with a critical lens. The novel suggests that while India has progressed economically, it has also entered a “Kalyug,” an age of conflict and sin, where rampant capitalism and nationalism exacerbate existing social divisions. The underlying philosophy, famously articulated by Sunny, seems to be “adapt or die,” reflecting a brutal Darwinian struggle for survival in this cutthroat environment. This thematic richness ensures that Age of Vice resonates long after the final page.
Language and Narrative Style: A Symphony of Brutality and Beauty
Deepti Kapoor’s writing in Age of Vice is a force of nature—propulsive, immersive, and utterly distinctive. It’s a style that mirrors the chaos and opulence of the world it depicts, making for an electrifying reading experience that few Age of Vice book review articles truly capture in full.
One of the most striking aspects is Kapoor’s masterful use of shifting perspectives and timelines. The narrative does not follow a linear path; instead, it jumps between the viewpoints of Ajay, Neda, and Sunny, and flashes back to earlier periods, gradually piecing together the complex puzzle of their interconnected lives and the Wadia family’s history. This technique not only builds suspense but also provides a multi-dimensional understanding of the characters and the societal forces at play. It allows readers to see events from different angles, revealing hidden motivations and consequences, which keeps the pacing relentlessly engaging.
The language itself is often described as “muscular” and “incisive.” Kapoor does not shy away from the gritty, unvarnished realities of her characters’ lives. Her prose can be “staccato, short and to the point” when describing violent or intense scenes, delivering a visceral impact. Yet, there’s also a lyrical quality that surfaces, particularly in descriptions of Delhi or moments of introspection, creating a captivating contrast. This duality of brutal realism and poetic subtlety is a hallmark of her style.
Kapoor’s journalistic background is evident in her attention to detail and her unflinching gaze at the socio-political landscape. She meticulously builds the world of the Indian elite, dropping brand names and describing lavish settings to emphasize the extreme wealth and decadence. This isn’t superficial; rather, it’s a deliberate technique to highlight the excesses and the almost grotesque nature of their lives, providing a biting satire of a society obsessed with status and consumption.
Furthermore, the novel’s style contributes significantly to its immersive quality. Readers are not just told a story; they are plunged into the sights, sounds, and moral ambiguities of Delhi. The atmosphere is palpable, whether it’s the dusty villages of Uttar Pradesh, the opulent farmhouses of the super-rich, or the dark corners of Delhi’s underworld. This vivid sense of place makes the world of Age of Vice feel incredibly real and immediate.
The comparisons to “The Godfather” or “Sacred Games” are apt, not just for the thematic content but also for the epic scope and unyielding momentum of the narrative. Kapoor maintains a high level of tension throughout, with incidents happening swiftly and consequences often brutal. Despite its length, the book rarely lets up, driving forward with a relentless energy that makes it genuinely “binge-worthy.” It’s a testament to Kapoor’s skill that she manages to balance this high-octane storytelling with profound character development and sharp social commentary, making Age of Vice a truly remarkable literary achievement.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Balanced Age of Vice Book Review
No book is without its nuances, and Age of Vice is no exception. While its strengths far outweigh its few perceived weaknesses, a balanced Age of Vice book review demands a look at both sides.
Strengths:
- Compelling and Immersive Storytelling: This is perhaps the novel’s greatest triumph. From the very first page, Kapoor pulls you into a world that is both captivating and chilling. The intricate plot, with its shifting timelines and multiple perspectives, ensures a consistently engaging reading experience. It’s the kind of book that makes you forget time, drawing you deeper into its web of corruption and desire. Many readers describe it as “binge-worthy” and “impossible to put down,” and I wholeheartedly agree.
- Rich and Complex Characters: Ajay, Sunny, and Neda are not simply plot devices; they are fully fleshed-out individuals with believable motivations and internal struggles. Their moral ambiguities make them fascinating, and their journeys are deeply empathetic, even when their actions are questionable. Kapoor avoids caricature, instead presenting characters that feel painfully human, navigating impossible choices within a brutal system.
- Searing Social Commentary: Beyond the thrilling plot, Age of Vice offers a profound and unflinching critique of modern India. It exposes the stark inequalities, the pervasive corruption, and the often-dehumanizing effects of extreme wealth and power. It’s a novel that forces you to confront uncomfortable truths about society, making it more than just entertainment – it’s a vital piece of social commentary.
- Vivid World-Building: Kapoor, with her insider’s knowledge of Delhi, paints a remarkably vivid and authentic picture of the city, from its glittering high society to its desperate underbelly. The sense of place is incredibly strong, transporting readers directly into the heart of India’s capital, complete with its unique rhythms, sights, and sounds.
- Propulsive Pacing and Narrative Energy: Despite its substantial length, the novel maintains a relentless pace. Incidents unfold rapidly, secrets are gradually revealed, and the stakes continuously escalate. This constant forward momentum makes it a true page-turner, ensuring that readers remain hooked from start to finish.
Weaknesses:
- Length and Pacing Fluctuations: While generally fast-paced, some readers might find the novel’s considerable length (over 500 pages) a bit daunting. There are moments, particularly during the deeper dives into character backstories, where the momentum can feel like it slows, only to pick up again dramatically. This isn’t necessarily a flaw, but it might require patience from readers accustomed to more linear narratives.
- Abrupt Endings (as part of a trilogy): As the first book in a planned trilogy, Age of Vice does not offer a neatly tied conclusion. While it resolves some immediate plot points, many storylines and character arcs are left open, clearly setting the stage for future installments. While this can be exciting for those eager for more, it might frustrate readers who prefer standalone novels with definitive resolutions.
- Graphic Content: The novel deals with heavy themes, including violence, drug abuse, and sexual content, some of which are depicted graphically. While these elements serve to highlight the brutal realities of the world Kapoor portrays, sensitive readers should be aware that the content can be intense and at times disturbing.
- Complexity of Narrative Weaving: The shifting perspectives and timelines, while a strength, can occasionally be challenging to follow for readers who prefer a straightforward narrative. It requires active engagement to keep track of the various threads and how they intertwine across different periods.
Despite these minor points, the overall impact of Age of Vice is overwhelmingly positive. Its ambition, its raw honesty, and its sheer narrative power make it a standout work of contemporary fiction.
Reflections and Insights: My Personal Journey with Age of Vice
Stepping into Age of Vice was like being dropped into a whirlwind. From the very first few pages, I knew this wasn’t going to be a casual read; it was going to demand my full attention, and it utterly deserved it. As a seasoned reader of thrillers and sagas, I’m always on the lookout for something that genuinely surprises me, and Deepti Kapoor delivered. This Age of Vice book review is truly from the heart of a reader captivated by its depths.
What struck me most profoundly was the novel’s unflinching portrayal of power. It’s not just about the external displays of wealth, though those are meticulously rendered – the private jets, the designer clothes, the sprawling farmhouses. It’s about the internal rot that comes with such unchecked power, how it distorts relationships, corrupts morality, and ultimately hollows out the very souls of those who wield it. Sunny Wadia, in particular, embodies this tragic reality. He is born into a golden cage, and despite his attempts to break free or legitimize his family’s dealings, he remains entangled in its violent legacy. His vulnerability beneath the playboy facade was genuinely compelling and made him a character I both pitied and feared.
Ajay’s journey, conversely, was heartbreakingly real. His struggles with poverty and his constant fight for survival put the Wadia family’s excesses into sharp relief. His quiet dignity and enduring loyalty, even when exploited, painted a picture of resilience that felt deeply authentic. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of unchecked greed, of the countless unseen lives sacrificed at the altar of power.
Neda, as the outsider looking in, initially felt like a proxy for the reader. Her journalistic curiosity, leading her into the gilded cage of the Wadias, allowed us to witness their world through fresh, albeit increasingly compromised, eyes. Her internal conflict between journalistic integrity and her undeniable attraction to Sunny was a fascinating exploration of human frailty and the seductive nature of danger.
The setting of New Delhi felt like a character in itself. Kapoor’s descriptions painted such a vivid picture that I could almost feel the humid air, hear the city’s ceaseless hum, and smell the intoxicating mix of street food and exhaust fumes. The contrast between the city’s glittering modernity and its entrenched ancient injustices was expertly rendered.
While some might find the narrative’s non-linear structure challenging, I found it to be one of its greatest strengths. It allowed Kapoor to gradually unveil layers of backstory and motivation, building suspense and a richer understanding of the characters’ interconnected fates. It’s like watching a complex mosaic slowly come together, each piece adding crucial context to the larger, devastating picture.
My only personal “critique,” if you can call it that, is the inevitable desire for immediate resolution, which, as the first in a trilogy, is purposefully withheld. The ending leaves you craving more, a testament to how deeply invested I became in the characters’ fates. This Age of Vice book review couldn’t conclude without expressing that eager anticipation for what comes next. It’s a book that not only entertains but provokes thought, a true sign of a significant literary achievement. If you’re willing to confront the darker side of ambition and the devastating consequences of vice, then this novel is an absolute must-read.
Impressions from Other Readers: What People Are Saying
Before you commit to a journey of over 500 pages, it’s natural to wonder what others are saying about Age of Vice. Looking at platforms like Goodreads and Amazon, a consistent picture emerges: this is a book that leaves a strong impression, often sparking intense, sometimes polarized, reactions. This Age of Vice book review would be incomplete without acknowledging the broader reader sentiment.
On Goodreads, Age of Vice holds a solid average rating, with many readers awarding it 4 or 5 stars. The word “binge-worthy” appears repeatedly, underscoring its gripping nature. Reviewers frequently praise Kapoor’s ability to create an “intense action-packed book” with a story that “sucked me in from page one.” The “multiple POVs” and the “deeply complex” and “distinct” voices of the characters are often highlighted as major strengths, contributing to the book’s immersive quality. One reviewer noted, “The combination of family saga/drama, thriller, suspense, and forbidden drama was captivating.” The “eye-opening critique of Indian culture” and the “view of modern India, especially New Delhi with its desperate race to be a Mega City, wealth, poverty, privilege and over it all the social divisions” are also themes that resonate strongly with readers. Some audio book listeners specifically praised the narrator’s ability to handle “various accents,” though a common suggestion was that multiple narrators would have been ideal for the different POVs. The “mind-blown” ending and anticipation for a sequel are also common sentiments.
However, not all impressions are entirely glowing, which is typical for a book of this ambition. Some readers found the novel “dark and depressing,” with one reviewer stating they “couldn’t finish this listen” because it “went off on a tangent and didn’t seem to lead back to the story.” Another noted that while the main characters were “well portrayed,” they “didn’t really enjoy the book” because it “bounced back and forth too much.” This feedback often stems from the book’s non-linear structure and intense thematic content, which might not appeal to every taste.
On Amazon, similar patterns emerge. Critical reviews from publications often use words like “dazzling,” “epic but intimate,” and “masterpiece,” drawing comparisons to The Godfather and Succession set in Delhi. Publishers Weekly gave it a starred review, noting, “The author possesses a talent great enough to match the massive scope of her subject.” Marlon James, a Booker Prize winner, lauded it as “epic, crazy, shocking, mind-blowing, brutal, tender, heartbreaking… one of the best I’ve read.” These professional endorsements clearly highlight the novel’s literary merit and broad appeal.
Customer reviews echo the themes of being “totally engrossing from the beginning to the end” and offering “a view of modern India, especially New Delhi with its desperate race to be a Mega City, wealth, poverty, privilege and over it all the social divisions of India. A crime story but so much more, great read.” The desire for a sequel is a frequently expressed sentiment, indicating that the unresolved ending (a consequence of being a trilogy) left readers eager for more.
In summary, general reader impressions for Age of Vice suggest that while it is a challenging and at times dark read, its captivating plot, complex characters, and profound social commentary make it a deeply rewarding experience for those who engage with its world.
Why You Absolutely Need to Read Age of Vice
Having delved deep into the intricate layers of Deepti Kapoor’s masterwork in this Age of Vice book review, I can confidently say that this is not just another book; it’s a literary event. If you’ve made it this far, you’re likely intrigued, and for good reason. Here’s why Age of Vice deserves a prime spot on your reading list, and why you should rush to purchase and immerse yourself in its world right now.
First and foremost, Age of Vice is an unforgettable journey into a world rarely seen with such raw authenticity. Kapoor’s insider perspective as a former journalist allows her to construct a New Delhi that pulses with life, danger, and breathtaking disparities. You won’t just read about this world; you will feel it, taste it, and be perpetually on edge within it. It’s a truly transportive experience that offers a glimpse into a society grappling with its own contradictions.
Secondly, if you appreciate character-driven narratives with profound psychological depth, this book will absolutely enthrall you. Ajay, Sunny, and Neda are not heroes or villains in the traditional sense; they are complex human beings shaped by their environments and their choices. Their struggles, their desires, and their moral compromises will resonate long after you turn the final page. Following their intertwined fates is a masterclass in character development, and you will find yourself thinking about them long after you’ve finished the book.
Furthermore, for those who love thrilling plots with high stakes and relentless momentum, Age of Vice delivers on every front. From the opening car crash to the shocking revelations that pepper the narrative, Kapoor keeps the tension ratcheted up. It’s a true page-turner that combines the best elements of a crime novel with the sprawling scope of a family saga, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. You’ll constantly be asking “What happens next?” and the answers are rarely what you expect.
Beyond the entertainment, Age of Vice offers important and timely social commentary. It’s a fearless exploration of wealth, power, class, and corruption in modern India, issues that are globally relevant. This book doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read that will spark conversations and encourage deeper reflection on societal structures.
Finally, knowing that this is the first installment in a trilogy only adds to the excitement. While it provides a satisfying narrative arc for its current volume, it leaves you eagerly anticipating the next chapter, promising even more twists, turns, and character development. It’s an investment in a captivating story that will unfold over time.
Don’t just take my word for it, or the words of countless other readers who have been enthralled by its power. Experience it for yourself. Age of Vice is more than just a book; it’s an immersive, brutal, and utterly brilliant piece of literature that will stay with you long after you’ve devoured its final page. Purchase your copy today and embark on a journey that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
A Literary Force to Be Reckoned With
Deepti Kapoor’s Age of Vice is a tour de force, a bold and unsparing examination of greed, power, and the corrosive effects of corruption in contemporary India. Through the interconnected lives of Ajay, Sunny Wadia, and Neda Kapur, Kapoor crafts a narrative that is both an exhilarating crime thriller and a profound family saga. This detailed Age of Vice book review has aimed to illuminate its many strengths: its compelling plot, intricately drawn characters, piercing thematic explorations of wealth and poverty, and its distinctively immersive writing style.
While its length and the intensity of its content might be challenging for some, these elements are integral to its power and authenticity. The book’s ability to transport readers into the vibrant yet dangerous streets of New Delhi, coupled with its unflinching portrayal of human morality, makes it a truly memorable read. It’s a novel that sparks discussion, provokes thought, and leaves a lasting impression, a testament to Kapoor’s remarkable talent as a storyteller. Age of Vice isn’t just a novel; it’s an experience, and one that I wholeheartedly recommend for anyone seeking a deep, impactful, and thoroughly gripping read. It firmly establishes Deepti Kapoor as a major voice in contemporary literature, and the anticipation for the subsequent books in this trilogy is now palpable.
“Enjoyed this review? Discover more in our Crime Reviews section.”
