Review:

“It’s not about what happened in the past; we should always work towards improving our future.”

Some scars run so deep that only time and truth can begin to heal them. I Will Win Without War by Tanisha Tiwari is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story of trauma, survival, and healing, told through the voice of Sarah as she opens up to her therapist about her harrowing past. She finds her voice through therapy sessions, gradually peeling back the layers of trauma she has endured. It’s a raw, vulnerable, and emotionally charged journey of rediscovery, healing, and reclaiming her voice.

At the heart of the novel is Sarah’s struggle to feel safe within her own family. Her life takes a dark turn when the very people who should have protected her become the source of her deepest pain. Her love for politics and the Prime Minister’s speeches inspired her, but her reality at home is anything but safe. Tanisha sheds light on the harsh truth that abuse can hide behind closed doors, masked by smiles and silence.

Sarah’s story is not easy to digest. It’s about feeling unsafe in the very space that should offer the most comfort—her home. It’s about secrets too heavy for a child to carry, about silence that screams, and a truth buried until the day she chooses to reclaim her life. Through her grief, fears, and unwavering determination, Sarah begins the long road to healing and, ultimately, learns to live again. A curious and politically aware young girl, Sarah becomes intrigued when the Prime Minister visits her school. Her budding interest in politics sets off a chain of events, but beneath that curiosity lies a chilling reality: danger lurks not in distant places, but within the people she calls family.

The storyline is intense and gripping, and Tanisha Tiwari weaves a dark, emotionally rich narrative layered with themes of familial bonds, silence, betrayal, abuse, and resilience. The writing is crisp and immersive, pulling readers into Sarah’s mind—the fear, confusion, and strength she experiences. We see her gradually open up, confront those around her, and take bold steps that showcase her transformation from a silenced child to a strong, self-assured individual.

The book navigates Sarah’s early curiosity, bottled-up fears, and the courage it takes to finally speak out. Each chapter peels back a new layer of emotion, revealing not just what happened, but what it means to live through it—and rise above it. Tanisha Tiwari’s writing style is crisp, descriptive, and immersive. Her prose is straightforward yet emotionally evocative, striking a fine balance between simplicity and depth. She doesn’t rely on over-explaining; instead, she lets Sarah’s emotions and memories speak for themselves. The rawness in the storytelling makes it feel authentic, almost like you’re sitting in the therapist’s office, listening to Sarah unravel her truth.

Also Read: Experience Divine Love Through Sound: Book Review of Mantra Meditation by Radhika Das

The tone of the book is sombre, reflective, and intimate. Yet even in the darkest moments, there’s an undercurrent of strength. Tanisha handles sensitive themes with care and empathy, ensuring that even the most painful moments are treated with dignity and emotional honesty. It’s a delicate blend of pain and power, vulnerability and courage.

The supporting characters, especially Sarah’s mother and brother, add emotional depth. Their presence and the bond she shares with them become crucial as Sarah begins to face her past and take charge of her actions. The familial dynamics—both painful and healing—are portrayed with realism and nuance. The author captures the innocence of childhood, the confusion of trauma, and the slow-burning strength of a survivor finding her way.

The pacing is fast, which adds to the suspense and intensity, though at times it feels a bit rushed. There were moments where certain scenes could have been explored more deeply to offer a more layered understanding of Sarah’s world and inner life. It feels like we’re skimming the surface of a deeper ocean—one that could have made this already gripping story even more compelling.  The climax ties everything together in a thought-provoking way, leaving a lasting impact. It’s not just the end of a story—it feels like the beginning of a new chapter in Sarah’s life. And it costs her a lot.

In all, I Will Win Without War is a compelling read that not only tells a story but gives voice to many unspoken truths. It’s a must-read for those who appreciate emotionally driven narratives with strong female protagonists and themes of healing and empowerment. A poignant, fast-paced, and emotionally stirring read that sheds light on uncomfortable truths while celebrating the quiet strength of a survivor. Tanisha Tiwari delivers a bold, compassionate, and deeply resonant debut.

Get your Book Reviewed by Vidhya Thakkar – Connect us Now