The idea for this story came to me one morning, hours before a history test. Three things were very clear; it would be set in pre-independence Bengal, there will be three women, and it will be a horror story. The kind that makes you question what, or rather who, is the real monster. A complex narrative that will convey a strong message.

It will also be a love story. Rather, two love stories taking place at the same time. Both are forbidden for a multitude of reasons and we are left wondering if these couples will ever know fulfillment, or if this pursuit of love is a blunder? Romance has never been my strong suit, but I am trying hard to overcome this lacking.

This story is dear to my heart as it has characters with whom I have spent countless hours. It's the place where I tell you my perspective about my culture, and the land from which I belong. West Bengal is that part of India which is steeped in richness in every aspect of its history and existence. This book is an ode, a tribute to my beautiful Bengal. আমার প্রাণের জন্মভূমি.

Before continuing, keep in mind tantric practices influenced that a major part of this tale. It involves certain themes and creatures that you will find mentioned in the tantric scriptures. Some of you may find it confusing, but I hope to clear the concepts little by little. It is also a LGBTQ+ story, as one of the two couples previously mentioned are lesbians, and they will be a major focus of the story. There are trigger warnings for depiction of graphic violence, gore, sexual acts (glossed over mostly), misogyny, and animal deaths.

So welcome to Nishikantopur, a land that darkness loves.

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