Phantasmagoria

In a remote house in a forest, four people come together for a political debate: Mehrosh, a celebrated activist, receives death threats; Bina, a wily politician, is determined to win; Jai, a journalist, wants to launch his new channel; and Scherezade, Bina's PA, is not who she seems. Phantasmagoria warns of the dangers of populism, social media, and the use of fear to control us.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 90 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2023
Publisher: Aurora Metro Publications

Four individuals gather in a remote house nestled deep within a forest for a political debate, amidst a backdrop of anticipation and tension. Among them is Mehrosh, a celebrated activist who has recently received death threats, causing her to feel anxious and fearful. Her opponent, Bina, is a cunning politician representing the ruling party, driven by a fierce desire to present a favorable image and secure victory. Jai, a journalist, is determined to launch his new channel with a bang, hoping to attract a large audience and establish himself in the media landscape. Completing the ensemble is Scherezade, Bina's personal assistant, who appears to be a loyal and trustworthy aide, but hides a secret that could shake the foundations of the debate.

As the discussion unfolds, tensions rise, and the lines between truth and deception become blurred. Mehrosh exposes the corrupt practices of the ruling party, while Bina attempts to discredit her and paint her as a threat to national security. Jai, armed with his camera and journalistic instincts, seeks to uncover the hidden agendas and expose the truth behind the façade. Scherezade, however, plays a double game, acting as both Bina's confidante and a potential source of danger.

As the debate reaches its climax, the stakes become increasingly high, and the individuals find themselves trapped in a web of deceit and danger. The truth about Scherezade's true identity is revealed, and it becomes clear that she has been orchestrating events to manipulate the outcome of the debate and further her own agenda. The group must work together to outsmart Scherezade and expose her treachery before it is too late, risking their lives and careers in the process.

In the aftermath of the debate, the country is left in shock, and Mehrosh emerges as a hero for speaking out against the corrupt forces that threaten to undermine democracy. Jai's channel gains widespread popularity, and he is hailed as a champion of truth and transparency. Bina, on the other hand, is forced to resign from her position, and her reputation is tarnished forever.

Phantasmagoria serves as a cautionary tale, warning us of the dangers of populism, social media, and the use of fear to control us. It reminds us that the truth is worth fighting for, even in the face of adversity, and that we must be vigilant against those who would seek to manipulate and undermine our democratic institutions.

Dimension: 198 x 129 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911501183