Nilanjana Roy Books In Order

Publication Order of The Wildings Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

About Nilanjana Roy

Nilanjana S. Roy is a writer from India known for her work in journalism, book reviews, editing, and fiction. She has written novels like The Wildings, along with The Hundred Names of Darkness, as well as a collection of essays titled The Girl Who Ate Books. She has also edited books, including A Matter of Taste, which focuses on Indian writing about food, and Our Freedoms. Her wide range of work shows her skill in different styles of writing.

Roy has a talent for creating memorable characters that draw readers into her stories. Her fiction often features protagonists who feel real and relatable, making her books enjoyable to read. The way she builds their personalities and challenges keeps the narrative moving smoothly. This ability to craft engaging plots and people is one of her strengths as a storyteller.

Her writing stands out because she knows how to hold a reader’s attention with well-told tales. Whether in fiction or essays, she presents ideas in a clear yet interesting way. The topics she chooses, from animals in her novels to food in her edited collections, show her curiosity and versatility. Readers who appreciate thoughtful, well-written stories will likely find her work worth exploring.

Through her stories she connects with readers across the world because they feel genuine and full of life. She writes in a way that stays true to her own voice, never forcing anything just to please an audience. Her books, like The Wildings, pull people in with lively characters and vivid settings. Readers enjoy her work because it’s both fresh and familiar, making it easy to get lost in her worlds.

Her storytelling has a natural rhythm that keeps things moving without feeling rushed. She balances humor, emotion, and adventure in a way that feels effortless. Even when writing about serious themes, she keeps the tone engaging rather than heavy. This makes her books enjoyable for different kinds of readers, no matter where they’re from.

Roy’s authenticity is what makes her writing stand out. She doesn’t follow trends but instead tells stories that matter to her. Whether through talking animals in her fiction or sharp observations in her essays, she shares her perspective without pretension. That honesty is what keeps readers coming back; they know they’ll always get something real.

Nilanjana Roy continues to write with the same energy and originality that readers have come to expect. Given her track record, there will likely be more books, whether fiction, essays, or edited collections, in the years ahead. Fans can look forward to new stories told in her distinct, engaging style. Her future work will surely bring the same authenticity and creativity that define her writing today.

Early and Personal Life

Nilanjana Roy was born in Kolkata in 1971, growing up in a city rich with culture and stories. She attended La Martiniere, a well-known school in Kolkata, where her early education helped shape her love for reading and writing. Her academic journey continued at St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, where she immersed herself in literature during the 1990s.

Studying literature deepened her appreciation for storytelling and critical thinking, skills that would later define her career. The vibrant literary atmosphere of Delhi in the 1990s further fueled her passion for books and writing. This strong educational foundation helped her develop the insight and creativity seen in her work today.

Over the years, Roy has drawn inspiration from her experiences, education, and the world around her. Her growth as an author reflects her dedication to exploring different forms of writing, from journalism to fiction. Readers can see how her background and love for literature continue to influence her engaging and thoughtful storytelling.

Writing Career

Nilanjana Roy has established herself as a versatile writer with two acclaimed novels, The Wildings (2012) and The Hundred Names of Darkness (2013), as well as a collection of essays, The Girl Who Ate Books (2016). Her debut novel, The Wildings, earned recognition by winning the Shakti Bhatt First Book Award and being shortlisted for both the Commonwealth Book Prize, along with the Tata First Book Prize. These works showcase her ability to craft engaging narratives, whether through fiction or reflective essays.

In addition to her books, Roy contributes a weekly column to the Financial Times Life & Arts section, sharing her insights on literature and culture. Her writing career reflects a blend of creativity and critical thought, appealing to a wide range of readers. With her continued work, she remains an active and influential voice in contemporary writing.

The Wildings

Nilanjana Roy’s young adult magical realist novel The Wildings, illustrated by Prabha Mallya, was published on August 17, 2012, by Aleph Book Company. The book blends fantasy elements with a contemporary setting, targeting younger readers while appealing to broader audiences. Its release marked Roy’s debut as a novelist, earning critical acclaim and literary awards, as well as being the first in The Wildings series.

In Delhi’s historic Nizamuddin neighborhood, a fierce clan of cats rules the alleys and ruins. The group includes wise elder Miao, respected leader Katar, warrior Hulo, regal Beraal, and curious kitten Southpaw; all living freely without fear. Their world shifts when an unusual orange kitten with strange powers arrives among them. This unexpected newcomer triggers extraordinary changes that reshape the cats’ lives forever.

This captivating tale of Delhi’s wild cats blends adventure and magic in a vividly imagined world. Readers will love the unique feline characters, each with distinct personalities that leap off the page. The story’s mix of action, humor and heart makes it hard to put down. Animal lovers and fantasy fans alike will find it thoroughly enjoyable.

Black River

Nilanjana Roy’s mystery thriller Black River was published on November 1, 2022, by Westland Books. The novel marks Roy’s venture into crime fiction, expanding her literary range beyond magical realism and essays. Its release added to her growing body of critically acclaimed work across multiple genres.

Chand’s quiet life in Teetarpur village collapses when he’s thrust into a desperate fight for justice. Sub-inspector Ombir Singh, who watched Chand’s daughter grow up, struggles with personal demons while investigating the complex case under SSP Pilania’s supervision. Nearby, Chand’s friends Rabia and Badshah Miyan battle religious politics threatening their home in Bright Dairy Colony.