A heart-warming story of love, loss, and hope

Book Review: Love @ Air Force

Author: Gaurav Sharma

Rating: 4.5/5

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/2qDDoN4  

When I received this book from the author, I was instantly impressed by the thoughtfully designed book cover. Later, it was a pleasant surprise to learn that the cover design is the brainchild of Arnav Sharma, the author’s young, talented son. The simplicity of this powerful visualization is commendable.

Coming to the narrative, ‘Love @ Air Force’ is a beautifully woven story about two childhood friends who unexpectedly bump into each other after decades! While both of them are employed with the Indian Air Force, Sushil Awasthi is a non-commissioned sergeant, while his best friend Shabd Mishra is a decorated Wing Commander. Can they still be friends or will the disparity in ranks play spoilsport? Well, I leave that to you, to find out.
Without revealing more about the story, I must say that this tale will tug at your heartstrings and bring back fond memories of your first love. Full marks to the author on the relatable yet unique characterisation.

While Sushil and Shabd lead the story, the high point in the drama is when the 
sensible and empathetic Soumya is introduced. She enters like a breath of fresh air and shows how brilliantly delicate matters of the heart can be handled.

The author sent me this lovely autographed 

copy :)

Sushil comes across as a somewhat chauvinistic man stuck in an apparently unhappy marriage, who sometimes makes clichéd remarks about people of other communities. But what struck me was Sushil’s ability to find humour in the most mundane tasks, his fierce loyalty towards his friend, and his patriotism, regardless of the stiff personal challenges he faced since childhood.

Shabd on the other hand is the perfect gentleman with his uniformed heart throbbing faster than a teenager’s, at the mention of his childhood love. The depth of his emotions makes him stand out, apart from his magnanimous personality.

I liked Sharmistha’s character too, but she enters the story rather late. I would have enjoyed the book more if she had a meaty part, like the other characters. But the little that we know of her leaves an indelible impression in the minds of the reader. 

Though each character is different, the profundity of their friendship binds them together, beautifully. The author’s writing style is simple, lucid, and engaging. 

To sum up, whether you are aware of life at the Indian Air Force or not, this book is for you. Kudos to the author on his research and detailing of incidents of hierarchy at the Air Force. They blend with the narrative so well that by the time the story ends, you realize that while you were reading a story of love and friendship, the author gave you a whole new perspective about a life that is very different from that of a civilian’s. 

Highly recommended for everyone who has experienced unrequited love.