Book Review: The Girl on Fire by Devashish Sardana
Devashish Sardana’s The Girl on Fire is a gripping psychological crime thriller that keeps readers on edge from the very first page. As the third installment in the Simone Singh series, this novel not only delivers a compelling mystery but also deepens our understanding of its fierce protagonist, IPS Simone Singh. Set against the chilling backdrop of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, the book weaves an intricate web of deception, violence, and hidden truths.
Sardana, known for his fast-paced storytelling and intricate plots, crafts a narrative reminiscent of Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl and Lisa Jewell’s Then She Was Gone. However, he adds his own signature style—mixing brutal realism with psychological complexity—to create a book that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Plot Summary: A Series of Murders and a Missing Nurse
The novel begins with a shocking crime scene. Doctors from Kullu’s Regional Hospital are being brutally murdered—shot and burned beyond recognition. These gruesome killings send shockwaves through the small town, leaving the police baffled and the public terrified. With each passing day, the pressure mounts to find the killer before more lives are lost.
Enter IPS Simone Singh, a seasoned officer with a sharp mind and an unyielding drive for justice. She is assigned to lead the investigation, but what initially appears to be a straightforward serial murder case quickly spirals into something far more complex. The only clue linking the victims together is a missing nurse—one who might be the key to unlocking the entire case. But as Simone digs deeper, she finds herself entangled in a maze of conflicting testimonies, hidden motives, and shocking betrayals.
Every suspect has something to hide, and every lead brings Simone closer to a truth darker than she imagined. As the murders continue, she must race against time to uncover the real mastermind before another life is taken. But will she be able to do so before becoming a target herself?
Character Development: The Strength of Simone Singh
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its protagonist, Simone Singh. Sardana paints her as a strong yet flawed character, making her both relatable and admirable. Unlike stereotypical detectives in crime fiction, Simone is not just a crime solver—she is a woman with her own demons, struggles, and personal battles.
Simone’s character arc is compelling. Throughout the book, she is forced to confront not only external threats but also her own fears and vulnerabilities. Her dedication to justice comes at a cost, and Sardana does an excellent job of portraying the emotional and psychological toll of her profession. Readers see her grit and intelligence shine as she pieces together the puzzle, but they also witness her moments of doubt, frustration, and exhaustion.
The supporting characters are equally well-crafted. The missing nurse serves as an enigmatic figure whose past and motivations are gradually revealed, keeping readers guessing at every turn. Meanwhile, the various suspects and witnesses contribute layers of complexity to the narrative, each adding to the growing tension and mystery.
Themes and Psychological Depth
Beyond being a fast-paced thriller, The Girl on Fire explores deep psychological and societal themes. Sardana delves into the hidden darkness within human nature—how desperation, power, and past traumas can drive individuals to commit unthinkable acts. The book also touches on issues of justice, corruption, and the moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement.
Additionally, Sardana does not shy away from showcasing the challenges women face in male-dominated fields. Simone’s struggles as a female officer add another layer of realism to the story, making her victories even more satisfying.
Writing Style and Pacing
Sardana’s writing style is sharp, engaging, and cinematic. His experience in thriller fiction is evident in the way he crafts suspenseful scenes, using short, punchy sentences to build tension. The descriptions of crime scenes are vivid and chilling, immersing readers in the investigation.
Moreover, the pacing is impeccable. Sardana knows exactly when to slow down for character development and when to speed up for high-stakes action. The alternating perspectives and cliffhangers at the end of chapters make it nearly impossible to put the book down.
Strengths of the Book
- Engaging Mystery – The plot is layered and full of unexpected twists. Sardana keeps readers guessing until the very end.
- Strong Female Lead – Simone Singh is a compelling protagonist, breaking stereotypes of female detectives in crime fiction.
- Psychological Depth – The novel explores complex emotions and motivations, adding depth to the thriller elements.
- Fast-Paced and Suspenseful – Sardana’s writing style and structure make for an addictive reading experience.
- Cinematic Storytelling – The scenes are vividly written, making the book feel like a psychological thriller movie.
Areas for Improvement
While the book is highly engaging, there are a few areas where it could have been even stronger:
- Complexity of Subplots – Some subplots, while intriguing, could have been better developed for greater emotional impact.
- Limited Exploration of Kullu’s Setting – The novel could have used its unique Himachal Pradesh setting more deeply to create an even richer atmosphere.
- Slightly Predictable Elements – While the twists are strong, readers familiar with psychological thrillers might anticipate a few of them.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read Thriller
The Girl on Fire is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, psychological thrillers, and detective stories. Devashish Sardana delivers a gripping narrative filled with suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists. With a strong protagonist, a chilling mystery, and thought-provoking themes, the book cements itself as a standout in the genre.
Whether you are new to the Simone Singh series or have followed her journey from the beginning, this book promises an unforgettable experience. If you love novels by Gillian Flynn and Lisa Jewell, The Girl on Fire is the perfect addition to your reading list.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
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